The Express Newspaper 10th June 2020

Wednesday, June 10, 2020

Free and online every week www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

CHEERS AND BEERS The beers were flowing and stories were told as locals came together again at their favourite watering holes  P7

It was cheers all round on Friday as pubs, clubs and more reopened to the public. With the introduction of eased stage two restrictions across Queensland, Barron Valley Hotel publican, Mick Nasser was excited to pour a beer and serve a meal as he welcomed back patrons after weeks of lockdown.

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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

Torrisi recognised for support of his peers ONE of the lesser known roles in the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) are the Peer Support Officers.

They play an important role in assisting and supporting their colleagues, with either workrelated or personal difficulties.

Recognised recently for his role as a Peer Support Officer (PSO) was Atherton firefighter Guiseppe ‘Joe’ Torrisi.

Joe was awarded the Olga Wilson QFES PSO of the Year Award as part of the QFES annual Peer Support Officer Week celebrations.

The award is only handed out once a year to the leading PSO in the state.

The celebrations recognised the valuable role of all the Peer Support Officers (PSO) across Queensland and highlighted those who have provided outstanding services. .

A spokesperson for the QFES said that “Joe has always gone above and beyond of what is expected in his role to support his work mates and members of the community.”

“His kindness and generosity towards others has been formally recognised and the well of gratitude that exists runs deep.

“His service and commitment to others, is the very spirit that makes Australia such a great and compassionate nation.”

STATE AWARD: Atherton firefighter Guiseppe ‘Joe’ Torrisi (front centre) was awarded the Olga Wilson QFES Peer Support Officer of the Year Award.

Mr Torrisi is the Acting Station Officer for the Far Northern Region and has been with QFES for over 36 years.

He believes he won the award because “everybody knows they can call me anytime day or night.” he said.

“If someone needs me I just jump in my car and go, I’ve been to pick up fire fighters who can’t even drive after a job.

“I will take them somewhere for a coffee and chat to them to try and help them get their senses back.”

PSOs are volunteers who can relate to their colleagues due to their common working environment and experiences.

PSOs are there to provide confidential, informal short-term assistance, support or guidance to their colleagues.

They give up their time to support QFES staff and volunteers through difficult and emotionally challenging situations and traumatic events and link their colleagues into professional services if required in a confidential manner.

Operation Cool Burn underway in preparation for bushfire season QUEENSLAND Fire and Emergency Services are well into their Operation Cool Burn period, which occurs annually throughout the cooler months of the year.

Fire and Emergency Services Minister Craig Crawford said QFES undertook Operation Cool Burn between April and August each year.

“Operation Cool Burn is about the protection of Queensland communities using various bushfire mitigation activities,” Mr Crawford said.

“These activities include

fire break upgrades and maintenance, slashing, community education and hazard reduction burning.

“Hazard reduction burns are already under way in many areas of the state to reduce fuel loads and some Queenslanders may have noticed smoke in the air as a result.”

QFES Commissioner Greg Leach said QFES assisted and supported landholders to conduct burns where possible to take advantage of favourable weather conditions.

“We encourage private land-

holders to conduct mitigation activities on their own land and we will continue to provide advice and assistance to support them.

“Landholders interested in conducting a burn on their own land should remember to apply for a Permit to Light Fire, which is available at no cost through their local fire warden.

“Residents should ensure they equip themselves with their own tools such as an up-to-date Bushfire Survival Plan so they know what they will do if a bushfire threatens their area.”

Atherton Fire Station Officer

Paul Dilena, says getting a permit to burn is as easy as popping into the station or going to the website. “People can drop their application here into the station if they have any questions.” he said.

“Before we can issue a permit we need to know what fire breaks they will have in place, how many people will be attending and what equipment they have available.”

Once the application has been lodged, neighbours must then be notified of the impending burn and they then have three days to

lodge a complaint about the fire being lit.

“After the three days we will then go and inspect the property to see that everything is in place,’ Mr Dilena said.

“Some of the things that Fire Wardens look for before approving a burn off is ensuring that there are fire breaks in place, either bare earth around the fire site or very low green grass.

“We also don’t allow controlled burns when the wind is above 25 km/h.”

For more information please go to ruralfire.qld.gov.au.

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High hopes of building boom

BY PHIL BRANDEL

THE construction industry has high hopes of a building boom after the new $688 million HomeBuilder scheme was announced last week.

Off the back of the news that Australia was heading into its first recession in nearly three decades, the Australian government announced $25,000 cash grants for eligible Australians to either build a new home or renovate their existing home.

The new scheme is not limited to first home buyers, but contracts must be entered into before the end of the year and work must begin within three months of the contract date.

The HomeBuilder scheme will be means-tested and is available to individuals with income up to $125,000 and couples with a combined income of up to $200,000. While the combined value of the house and the land together can’t exceed $750,000.

For people wanting to renovate their existing home, renovations will have to cost between $150,000 and $750,000, with a house that is not worth more than $1.5 million before the renovation.

This new scheme, coupled with the Queensland First Home Owners’ Grant of $15,000, means that eligible Queenslanders could now receive up to $40,000 to help with building their new home.

The Queensland First Home Owners' Grant is a state government initiative to help first homeowners to get their new first home sooner.

If your contract is dated July 1, 2018 or later, you can get $15,000 towards buying or building your new house, unit or townhouse (valued at less than $750,000).

The new Federal Government housing scheme will help support 140,000 direct jobs and another 1,000,000 related jobs in the residential construction

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Federal Treasurer Josh Frydenberg said that “With dwelling investment expected to decline by around 20% through the June quarter, the HomeBuilder program will support residential construction activity and jobs across the industry at a time when the economy and the sector needs it most.”

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said “This is about targeted taxpayer support for a limited time using existing systems to ensure the money gets used how it should by families looking for that bit of extra help to make significant investments themselves.”

Local builders welcomed the Morrison Government announcment and are hopeful it will generate work.

Director of Shane Smith Builder in Mareeba, Joanne Smith said the new building grants could only be good news for builders and tradies on the Tablelands.

BUILD: Joanne Smith of Shane Smith Builder in Mareeba is hoping the new HomeBuilder grants will kick start a new house building boom.

“The week the lockdowns started everything slowed right down,” she said.

“Renovations just stopped, retirees were told to save their money and not to use their super on renovations.

“Other people who had holiday apartments cancelled their

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The grants cannot be used for detached sheds, garages, swimming pools, tennis courts or outdoor spas and saunas and they must be under the supervision of a registered or licensed builder.

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renovations as they had lost all their holiday bookings income.

Joanne also said that the lockdowns didn’t just affect her business.

“It had a big downturn effect on all our suppliers and subcontractors as well,” she said.

“We are hoping the grants

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mbaguilfoyle@bigpond.com The Express, Wednesday, June 10, 2020 PAGE 3

Funding to complete Hann Highway upgrade

UPGRADE: Alan Harris from Harris Transport In Mareeba drives the Hann Highway a few times a month and is looking forward to the upgrade being completed.

A FURTHER $50 million in funding has been announced by the Federal and State Government to finish sealing major sections of the Hann Highway.

Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack said progressively sealing the full length of the Hann Highway was a priority for both the Australian and Queensland governments.

“Following completion of the jointly funded $50 million Northern Australia Roads Program project, approximately 59 kilometres of the Hann Highway remains unsealed,” Mr McCormack said.

“The Australian and Queensland governments have committed a further $50 million to seal up to 48 kilometres of the Hann Highway as part of the Roads of Strategic Importance initiative.”

Flinders Shire Council Mayor Jane McNamara said the Flin-

ders Shire Council is very happy to be the recipient of the funding, along with the Etheridge Shire.

“The funding is a great financial boost to the Flinders Shire and has meant that our workforce has been able to be sustainably employed,” Cr McNamara said.

The new funding follows on from 50 million that was used to start sealing the road in 2016, which sealed approximately 47 kilometres of the highway.

Currently, 25 kilometres in the Flinders shire and approximately 35 kilometres in the Etheridge shire are still not sealed.

Ms McNamara says that the latest round of funding won’t seal the road completely and that there will still be sections of unsealed road.

“About 11 to 12 kilometres will still be unsealed when the new round of roadworks are finished.” she said

“When it is finished I’m looking forward to doing the Tour De Hann, we are going to start in the Tablelands and ride a bike all the way to Hughenden.”

Alan Harris, who owns Harris Transport in Mareeba, drives the Hann Highway several times a month and said finishing the upgrade was way overdue.

“I drive that way to Brisbane, but a lot of people don’t like it because it’s too rough on their trucks,” he said.

“It will make life a hell of a lot easier for me and a lot of other people. My fuel costs will come down, it will be a shorter trip if you’re going to Melbourne or Adelaide.

“You have to be careful driving your truck on that road, you could destroy it in a trip if you’re not careful.”

Mr Harris said he hopes the new sealed sections will make heavy transport more viable.

“We are struggling and if prices drop anymore we will be out of business,” he said.

“Last week they graded some sections, but it will be buggered by the next time I drive on it.

“At the moment you can only drive it during the dry season, It does a lot of damage to the trucks, it destroys brake springs and the trailers.”

Mr Harris said he wished they fixed it a long time ago.

“They keep making promises, it’s like the Cape York Peninsula Road, they told us 30 years ago that was going to be fixed,” he said.

“The same with Ootann road, it’s too rough to drive, but If they fixed Ootann I would use that as well.”

This project was jointly funded with the Australian Government contributing $40 million and the Queensland Government contributing $10 million.

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PAGE 4 The Express, Wednesday, June 10, 2020

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‘100 jobs in 100 days’ halfway done

Backing the region ON TARGET: Q.I.T.E. General Manager Jillian Trout is excited for the '100 Jobs in 100 Days' program to be gaining traction and providing people with work and employers with workers.

THE largest provider of employment services in the region is getting behind locals and getting them into jobs.

Quality, Innovation, Training and Employment (Q.I.T.E.) launched their ‘100 jobs in 100 days’ campaign in May this year and have already filled nearly half their quota.

The ‘100 jobs in 100 days’ initiative is aimed at helping Q.I.T.E’s clients find employment and to help local employers fill vacancies that they may have.

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This program is in effect across all of Q.I.T.E’s offices in Mareeba, Atherton, Cairns and Innisfail.

As of June 1 and just 31 days into their 100 day program, Q.I.T.E. has been able to successfully put 42 people into jobs.

Q.I.T.E. General Manager Jillian Trout believes that this program will not only help people find jobs, but also lift locals spirits.

“This program gives locals the opportunity to register with us and we can assist

them in finding jobs,” she said.

“This program helps creates jobs and activity in what is currently a soft job market.

“It is also a feel good initiative that shows the community that not all things are doom and gloom.”

With businesses still reeling from COVID-19’s adverse effects on the economy, many locals are still out of work and a program like this is the first step to rebuilding the local economy.

“We believe that people who live in remote communities deserve radio services as good as those in the cities and towns of our nation.”

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New local tourism itineraries means there has never been a better time to explore your own backyard...

WITH amazing attractions on our doorstop, the Mareeba Chamber of Commerce is getting behind local tourism and has released a series of tourist itineraries on their newly revamped website.

The new and improved website launched last month, features self-drive tourism itineraries covering the area’s attractions, agricultural crops and sports.

They are designed to promote Mareeba to the tourist market and encourage the self-drive visitor to tour Mareeba at their own pace, with the hope of generating more overnight stays.

The itineries sit alongside Mareeba’s event calendar and street maps – all part of the easy

to navigate website upgrade.

This itinerary contains attractions and sights ranging from Emerald Creek Falls, the MakoTrac and Skybury Café and Roastery.

Mareeba Chamber of Commerce President Joe Moro is stressing the importance of rebuilding the local tourism industry from the inside.

“Tourism continues to grow as an economic contributor to the Mareeba region,” he said.

“While the current travel restrictions present a challenge for our tourism industry it’s important that we focus on the good things we do have and continue to tell the world.

“As a Chamber, we’ve made a big effort on supporting the in-

dustry and implementing initiatives that build on its value to the region.”

The tourism itineraries start at the Mareeba Heritage and Visitors Information Centre and Chair Tito Srhoj said it is an ideal starting place.

“The Mareeba region is blessed with an abundance of natural and man-made attractions, a great climate and dedicated tourist operators,” Mr Srhoj said.

“This all combines to offer a wonderful tourist experience in Mareeba.

“The centre is pleased to partner with the Chamber to promote Mareeba.”

The itineraries can be viewed and explored at www.mareebachamber.com.au

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P: 4092 2588 E: grahamhotel@lhgroup.com.au A: 187 Byrnes Street, Mareeba The Express, Wednesday, June 10, 2020 PAGE 5

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Authorised by the Australian Government, Canberra PAGE 6 The Express, Wednesday, June 10, 2020

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Cheers as pubs and clubs reopen

For the first time in nearly two months, a sense of normalcy crept back into the region on Friday when COVID restrictions were eased and clubs, pubs and hotels could open again to more than 20 people at a time.

BY PHIL BRANDEL THERE was cheers all round on Friday as pubs and clubs across the region opened for the first time in nearly eight weeks.

Last week Deputy Premier and Health Minister Steven said “Restaurants, cafes and pubs that continue to operate under a COVID safe checklist will be allowed to have 20 people per “section” of their establishment from Friday, June 5.

This meant an establishment with multiple restaurants and rooms could have up to 20 people in each section, if there’s no more than one person per 4 square metres.

For the one of the regions longest running pubs, the Barron Valley Hotel in Atherton, the news could not have come soon enough.

The Nasser family have owned the Barron Valley Hotel in Atherton since 1930. Mick Nasser’s Grand Father Sconder Nasser bought the pub at the height of the depression and now it feels like the pub has come full circle with Mick reopening the pub after the recent lockdowns.

“We are the longest continually owned family hotel in Australia,” Mick said.

“We have survived the depression, WW2, the GFC and now we will survive COVID and the recession.”

Mr Nasser said even though the pub has been closed his staff have remained busy.

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CHEERS: Brothers Mark, Daniel and Robert Battistin caught up on Friday after The Gateway Hotel reopened its doors to the public.

“Since closing we have done a lot of renovations and painting, we have spent every dollar that we can afford in keeping the pub in running order and giving our staff jobs, during the closure,” he said.

“We had 16 people on Jobkeeper, but we had to put the casuals off.

“The opening of the pubs is a step in the right direction, but we won’t be doing 2am closures for a while.”

Mr Nasser believes that the opening of the pubs is good for social interaction of the community.

“We have a few regulars that come in every day. They have nobody at home and they're lonely, this social interaction is

important to lots of people,” he said.

“A lot of people like drinking draught beer, they don’t like sitting at home drinking out of a bottle or can by themselves, they are missing that social fabric.”

The Gateway Hotel in Mareeba also took advantage of the new relaxed restrictions by opening up several sections of the hotel.

Mareeba local Robert Battistin, who has having a drink with his brothers at the Gateway on Friday afternoon said it was good to see people getting out and about and life slowly returning to normal “It brings back a bit of normality to the town, everyone has been all cooped up and getting

sick of all the restrictions,” he said.

“It will really help the economy when businesses reopen their doors, everyone has been doing it tough.

“It’ll bring a sense of normalcy back to the community.”

In announcing the changes, Queensland Chief Health Officer Dr Jeanette Young reminded people all the same rules around keeping a 1.5-metre personal distance, washing hands regularly, and staying home if you are sick, apply.

Dr Young said venues were also responsible for keeping the contact details of anyone who attended their premises, should it be needed for contact tracing in the event of an outbreak.

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FRIENDS: Sophie Durno, Sam Broadfield, Staea Tupu, Reece Hellard and Sam McNtee caught up for a beer at The Gateway on Friday.

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Peter Smith and Jeffrey Clarke enjoyed a beer at the Malanda Hotel on Saturday.

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107 BYRNES ST, MAREEBA PHONE: 0488 002 884 The Express, Wednesday, June 10, 2020 PAGE 7

Cape York gets lockdown relief WHILE coronavirus travel restrictions eased across the State last week allowing most residents to travel anywhere in Queensland, there was growing anger and frustration that residents of Cape York were not enjoying the same freedoms.

Cape York has been a declared biosecurity area since early April, with some of the strictest lockdown restrictions in the state.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Steven Miles last week announced the first stage of the easing of access restrictions for Queensland’s remote communities.

“Stage 1 of the Roadmap is effective immediately and enables people, to enter a designated community to self-quarantine within that community

under approved arrangements, removing a requirement to quarantine for 14 days before entering.”

Deputy Premier Miles said the timeframe and restrictions would likely vary between communities and it would be left up to their Local Disaster Management Groups.

“Some areas could move through the stages at different times,” Deputy Premier Miles said.

“We are working with mayors through the Local Disaster Management Groups on local priorities and requirements for access restrictions, to take into account the different situations in each area and community, including to ensure there is local capacity and capability to address public health risks.”

The State Government is

hoping the Act will be lifted on June 12, reverting control to the state's Chief Health Officer, Jeannette Young, and disaster management groups.

Cook Shire Mayor Peter Scott said he wanted restrictions on Cape York to ease on June 12.

“Let's open it up to all Queenslanders so that aligns to what the Premier's done,” he said.

Cr Scott said that under his proposal the police checkpoint on the Mulligan Highway at Mount Carbine would remain.

Police would take licence and registration details, check people's physical health, and ask about travel history and where they intended to go.

“It's all about tracing,” Cr Scott said.

THE NEW QUARANTINE REGULATIONS REMOTE COMMUNITIES DIRECTION: As of June 1, if you don’t meet entry requirements for a designated area, you will need to seek permission from the local disaster management group (local council). If you are given permission to enter a community, you don’t need to complete the 14 day quarantine if you are: returning from receiving health care, returning from schooling, returning from using an approved community transport arrangement, told you don’t have to quarantine by an emergency officer such as a police officer.

You can complete quarantine within a designated area if you are given permission to enter the area from your local disaster management group and there is a suitable place for you to complete quarantine inside the community. Your local council can tell you where you can complete your quarantine within the community. A police officer may also tell you where you must complete your quarantine at the entry check point.

You can leave your place of quarantine to get essential medical care or supplies, to avoid injury or illness or to escape a risk of harm and you aren’t allowed to have another person visit you in your place of quarantine unless that person usually lives there.

GREAT OUTDOORS: Gary Anderson and his wife Karen who run the Atherton Caravan Park, are hoping for a busy school holiday period.

Queenslanders embrace camping WITH the early lifiting of Stage 2 restrictions, Tablelanders are now able to dust off their tents or hook up the caravan as camp grounds reopen.

Natural Resources Minister Dr Anthony Lynham said the re-opening of camping grounds beside dams was part of the Stage 2 COVID-19 roadmap to easing restrictions.

“Queenslanders can now travel to and camp at a range of state-owned dams, lakes and weirs such as far north Queensland’s Tinaroo Dam,” Dr Lynham said.

“The Government wants to support tourism in Queensland and camping holidays are a terrific way to support tourism.

“Campers should call ahead and check to see if and when these camping grounds are open, if they have availability, as some, for instance are still completing works

started during the shutdown.

“Of course, it is important however that everyone sticks to the rules so we can remain safe.

“This includes maintaining social distance and limiting gatherings/camp groups to no more than 20 people.”

The Department of Environment and Science has confirmed that camping sites within the Danbulla State Forest around Lake Tinaroo are now open including: Platypus camping area, Downfall Creek, Kauri Creek, School Point, Fong-On Bay and Curri Curri bush camping.

Gary Anderson who runs the Atherton Caravan Park with his wife Karen, said the phone has been running hot since the lifting of restrictions.

“I’m getting phone calls from far and wide and also from people looking for jobs,” he said “We are getting a lot of

enquires about medical visits and people who are hoping to bring their caravan to the Tablelands over the holidays.

“We are getting a lot of phone calls from people checking out prices and tyre kicking but we’ve also had a few good bookings as well.

“Most people have been from out west, I haven’t had many calls from the South East corner yet.”

Mr Anderson said the reopening of the caravan park meant strict COVID-19 rules and cleaning programs “We now have a bit more paperwork that we have to fill out and a very strict and regulated cleaning routine that we need to abide by.”

Queensland fossicking areas are also open in line with Queensland's easing of restrictions and state government has warned Queenslanders to observe social distancing measures and other health directives.

Mareeba State High School is committed to making the Year 6 transition to high school as smooth as possible for all our future students.

IS YOUR CHILD STARTING HIGH SCHOOL IN 2021?

Throughout the year there are a number of key transition activities for students and parents to participate in. With the impact of COVID-19 we have made adjustments to key dates for Year 6 students transitioning into Year 7 in 2021.

Now & ongoing: ParentNet eNews group registration TERM 3 July 20th: Enrolment Packs available for pick up July 24th: School Tour (pending COVID-19 guidelines) August 3rd: Year 7 Awards 2021 Applications open September 18th: Year 7 Awards 2021 Applications close

TERM 4 November 5/6th: Enrolment Interviews at Mareeba State School November 11th: Enrolment Interviews at Biboohra State School December 2nd: Year 6 into 7 Transition Day at Mareeba SHS

ALL parents/carers are invited to register for the Mareeba State High School ParentNet eNews group to receive the very latest MSHS news.

Please contact the school office between 8.00am - 3.30pm on 4086 2777 or Email: dgodf24@eq.edu.au.

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PAGE 8 The Express, Wednesday, June 10, 2020

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Tablelands Council welcomes new CEO

NEW CEO: Newly appointed CEO of Tablelands Regional Council, Bob Owen, commenced work last week.

TABLELANDS Regional Council’s new chief executive, Bob Owen, started work last week with an aim “to support the elected Council in setting a new direction and focus.”

Bob was appointed to the top job after the surprise resignation of former CEO, Justin Commons at last month’s Council meeting, Mr Owen joined the Tablelands Regional Council (TRC) in 2011 for a short stint, before leaving to become CEO at the Carpentaria Shire Council from late 2011 to late 2016. He then recommenced as General Manager Community Planning and Environment at the TRC in January 2017.

Before working in local council Mr Owen was a lawyer at his own private practice and he owns a small rural property at Upper Barron with his wife Liz. While he considers himself a ‘ring-in’ to the region (only moving from the Norther Territory 35 years ago), his wife Liz is a born and bred Tablelander

having grown up on a dairy and cropping farm at Tolga.

During his career Mr Owen has acted for and advised over 20 Councils, both large and small, across Queensland. His advice covered a range of areas including governance, statutory compliance, contracts, regulatory services, dispute resolution, and industrial relations matters, among others.

Mr Owen said his aspirations are “To support the elected Council in setting a new direction and focus for Council.”

He believes a good decision is an informed decision and he and his colleagues will ensure Council is provided with sound advice in order to make good decisions for the benefit of the community.

“Fortunately, TRC is blessed with great staff with high level skills, knowledge and experience to support Councillors in achieving their goals,” said Mr Owen.

Mr Owen said there are challenges associated with the appointment fresh into the new

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council term.

“Tablelands Regional Council faces numerous challenges that the whole team (Councillors and staff) will work towards improving,” he said.

“These include reconnecting with the community – actually listening to what the community is saying and what residents and ratepayers as a whole feel is important.

“There is also a strong desire to improve the customer experience for all people contacting Council.

“Council will also be focusing on liveability and affordability for our community and looking at ways to reduce costs to ensure that living and working in this region remains a viable option for all people.

“The other significant challenge for Council, as it is for many small rural types of Council, is to do everything that needs to be done on a limited budget.”

Mr Owen will be the interim CEO at the Tablelands Council for at least the next 12 months.

The Express, Wednesday, June 10, 2020 PAGE 9

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Congestion under control MAREEBA’S roads were full of unmoving cars and frustrated residents last fortnight after the Mareeba Shire Council (MSC) introduced temporary lights and ended up creating a gridlock that halted the town.

After the Byrnes Street lights were switched on at 3pm on Friday, May 29, two sets of temporary lights at the intersection of both Anzac Avenue/Kennedy Highway and Connection Road/Byrnes Street were also switched on to help stem the flow of traffic away from the closed John Doyle Bridge.

The result was Mareeba’s first and largest traffic jam with cars being held up through the main street of town through to the Granite Bridge.

MSC released a statement on social media shortly after the gridlock.

“The CEO apologises for the traffic congestion in Mareeba this afternoon (Friday, May 29) as a result of the changed traffic conditions.”

“Staff are working to resolve the issue as soon as possible.

“Thank you to everyone for their patience and again apologies for the inconvenience.”

MSC Mayor Angela Toppin has expressed her apologies to the community for the disruption but is assuring the public that the issue is now resolved.

“A large part of Friday’s problem was caused by the configuration and timing of the temporary traffic lights,” she said.

“This has since been resolved in consultation with the traffic contractors and TMR. “The changed traffic conditions will cause slight delays for motorists and I ask people to be patient and considerate of all road users.”

The lights on Anzac Avenue/ Kennedy Highway are now synched to improve the flow of traffic while the temporary

This aerial view captured by BK Media shows the massive gridlock that the temporary traffic lights caused in Mareeba on Friday, May 29.

lights at the Connection Road/ Byrnes Street have been completely removed and replaced with council workers.

The Connection Road/Byrnes Street intersection will be monitored by manual traffic control during peak hours during the weekday mornings to maintain traffic flow.

“Our main priority is to ensure everyone gets to their destination safely, while we work on the John Doyle Bridge,” Cr Toppin said.

“We will continue to monitor

the situation and make improvement where possible; we want to limit the disruption to the community.”

The temporary lights and traffic control will only be implemented until works on the John Doyle Bridge are finished, and may remain closed until September.

Council has asked all residents to be patient on their commutes and drives into town and to be considerate of traffic controllers and other motorists.

Claims refuted by others A WAR of words has erupted between Whitsunday MP and NQ First leader Jason Costigan, Former Wujal Wujal Mayor Desmond Tayley and Leichhardt MP Warren Entsch.

The slanging much started when Jason Costigan accused Warren Entsch of seeking revenge as Police probed into his trip to Cooktown last month.

Mr Costigan said the LNP had long courted Indigenous leader Mr Desmond Talley who most recently the Mayor of Wujal Wujal council.

“The Member for Leichhardt Mr Entsch is dirty because he couldn't get Desmond to run for the LNP,” Mr Costigan said.

“Mr Entsch should have sent me a bouquet, not a brickbat because ultimately, I was doing his job, ditto the Labor Member for Cook, who escaped last year to the comforts of Cairns, vacating her old Mareeba office in the process and now, Desmond Tayley, the NQ First candidate for Cook, wants her job so he can help the forgotten people of Cook.”

At the time Mr Entsch said Mr Costigan’s travel made a

mockery of the biosecurity lockdown – especially considering he had a cameraman with him in a separate vehicle to document the journey.

“People are skipping their medical appointments because they will become stranded,” Mr Entsch said. “I think he has broken protocol and I made a formal complaint.”

The Queensland Police Service has since cleared Mr Costigan of any wrongdoing by being in Cooktown.

But that’s not quite what happened according to Mr Entsch or Mr Tayley, with neither agreeing with Mr Costigan’s comments.

When asked if he had ever made any overtures to Mr Tayely to run for the LNP Mr Entsch said that “It was all bullshit and that he had never ever talked to Desmond Talley about joining the LNP or running for the LNP.” “My job is not to recruit for the LNP.” In response Mr Desmond claimed that Mr Entsch approached to him in Cooktown at last year’s Naidoc ball.

“I was invited by Cooktown Mayor Peter Scott and I was sit-

ting at the same table as Mayor Scott and Warren Entsch,” Mr Talley said.

“We had a few drinks and it was just a conversation between me and Warren.

“It was a general conversation in regards to opportunities working with Warren’s office and he said was happy to mentor me and provide advice.

“At the time I was too busy with my mayoral role at council at Wujal Wujal to look into it,” In response to Mr Tayely’s claims of what happened in Cooktown that night, Mr Entsch said “There’s never been an offer made to him to step into another role.” he said.

“I did offer him to help him out with mayoral stuff, but not as a potential candidate anywhere else.

“I helped them (Wujal Wujal Council) formulate some press releases, as at the time I was working closely with their CEO. “As I do with many communities, is to offer any support I can in assisting them, it’s done as an act of courtesy, it’s never done as a role to recruit.”

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Mareeba-born sailor appointed as Navy Indigenous Advisor

BY RHYS THOMAS

FROM leading his school in 1998, Mareeba local Samuel Sheppard has once again been appointed in a leadership role as the Royal Australian Navy’s first permanent Indigenous Adviser.

Lieutenant Commander (LCDR) Sheppard first had ideas about joining the Navy when he was still the Mareeba State High School Captain in 1998.

Now after 20 years of service with the Royal Australian Navy, the Muluridji man will speak on behalf of Indigenous Australians.

As a part of the Navy’s commitment to the Defence Reconciliation Action Plan, LCDR Sheppard’s leadership and advisory role will see him advocating for cultural awareness and implement the programs and plans within the Reconciliation Action Plan including ‘closing the gap’.

“I was really interested in involving myself in the Navy’s plans of reconciliation,” he said.

“It was something I was interested in from the very start.

“There are a lot of good programs within the reconciliation plan that I am proud to be a part of.”

LCDR Sheppard’s goal is to build better relations between

the indigenous members in the navy and to help advocate for them in pursing their careers within the Navy.

“The best way to build relationships is through knowledge and understanding,” he said.

Looking back on his past self, LCDR Sheppard had some words of encouragement for his younger self that can also be directed at young Indigenous who are looking to join the Australian Defence Force.

“Enjoy it, there will be hard times ahead but take joy in the little things,” he said.

“Always be comfortable with who you are, your heritage and where you come from.

“Always be yourself.”

Now under his new role, LCDR Sheppard will be receiving advice and tutelage from one of the Navy’s Senior Indigenous Members, Commander Bert Slape.

Commander Slape has provided significant support and guidance to the Navy’s Defence Reconciliation Action Plan since 2017 – prior to this, Navy received advice on Indigenous matters from Chief Petty Officer Ray Rosendale.

Chief of Navy, Vice Admiral Michael Noonan, AO, RAN welcomed LCDR Sheppard’s appointment and stated that he will be under the mentorship of Commander Slape.

“In marking this occasion, I

NAVY ADVISOR: Mareeba-born Samuel Sheppard has been appointed as the Indigenous Advisor for the Royal Australian Navy.

would like to acknowledge Navy’s Senior Indigenous Member, Commander Bert Slape, who has provided significant

support and guidance to lead Navy’s Defence Reconciliation Action Plan commitment since 2017,” Vice Admiral Noonan

said.

“As the Senior Indigenous Member in Navy, Commander Slape will continue to be ac-

tive in this area by providing mentorship to Lieutenant Commander Sheppard over the coming months.”

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The Express, Wednesday, June 10, 2020 PAGE 11

Tablelands Regional Council reopens libraries

IN light of the recent lifting of COVID-19 restrictions, Tablelands Regional Council (TRC) has reopened libraries across the region.

Libraries opened to the public on Monday, June 8, resuming under their normal operating hours.

TRC posted on social media last week saying “Our library service will be modified to meet social distancing and hygiene regulations.”

This includes, only 20 people in the library at one time and public computer access limited to a maximum of 1 hour per person per day. Due to the libraries reopening, the Click and Collect service will now cease TRC is also asking all residents to “Please maintain 1.5 metres between yourself and others at all times and we recommend you wash/sanitise your hands before and after entering the library.”

Due to COVID restrictions the following services are not available until further notice – Children's jigsaws, toys and dress-ups, library programs and events, newspapers, book baskets, interactive displays and community jigsaws.

For more information go to www.trc.qld.gov.au/libraryservices

Understand your furry friends

BY RHYS THOMAS

A NEW course in pet healthcare has been launched by a local veterinary surgery to help owners better understand their pets.

Ready Vet in Atherton, launched the course last week and said it will allow pet owners to be able to better understand any issues with their furry friends.

The ‘Advanced Pet Healthcare’ course is now live and available to members of the public.

The course is perfect for locals in the pet industry, or those just looking to better understand their pet when in need.

Created by Ready Vet Co-Owner and Registered Veterinary Nurse, Cat Robinson, the course will cover a range of subjects that will better help pet owners differentiate between a sick/ injured pet and an anxious/ stressed pet.

Mrs Robinson said that this kind of information could not only save you a lot of time at the vet, but it could also save your pets life.

“You will be better equipped to identify issues and emergencies early, saving you time and money in the long run,” she said.

“This course will enable you to identify anything from subtle signs of pain right through to life threatening

PET CARE: Cat Robinson and Chloe Jessop of Ready Vet in Atherton.

situations.

“This is another wonderful opportunity for those working in the pet care industry to add value to their service by advocating for pets that need supportive care and exercise.”

Patient examination, measuring vital signs, basic CPR and administering first aid including wound flushing and

basic bandaging are just some of the skills that you could learn through this course.

Mrs Robinson is encouraging local pet owners to get involved and expand their knowledge so that they can better help their pets.

“Many pet owners want to take a proactive, hands-on approach to their pets health-

care, and this course can help them do that,” she said.

“This course is also useful as a stepping stone for those wanting to enter the animal care industry or for those just starting out.

“It might seem daunting but this course is within most people’s capabilities, it is super interesting and will help

save pets lives.”

This is just the first course that Ready Vet has launched on their online training academy and more are expected to follow.

The course is $100 and is open to everyone. For more information head to www. training.readyvet.com.au

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Locals supporting Australian made AUSSIE MADE: Skybury Farms General Manager Candy MacLaughlin is excited to be able to support another Australian business through their locally grown Papaya.

BY RHYS THOMAS SKYBURY Farms has put their produce and support behind

Australian business.

The Mareeba farming family recently partnered with Aussie owned natural skincare

manufacturer, G & M Cosmetics to produce a range of papaya based skincare products.

For generations, Papaya

has been utilised for various health benefits, including skin care and Skybury Farms is now proud to stock a range of prod-

ucts that are grown and manufactured right here in Australia.

G & M Cosmetics is 100% Australian owned and operated company that provides Australian sourced and made skincare products to the domestic and international markets.

They provide products that contain native Australian ingredients and now thanks to Skybury, their P’ure Papayacare range of products now also contains Australian sourced ingredients.

Skybury is also involved in Bondi Beach Tea as they sell several kinds of Papaya infused teas that boast fantastic health properties.

Skybury mainly focuses on Papaya seed oils as it has great fatty acids within the fruit, so Skybury main research is aiming to see what this oil can do and what Australian companies may also benefit from it.

Skybury General Manager Candy MacLaughlin is pleased to be able to put her ingredients and support behind another Australian business.

“It feels great to be able to put our hand behind another Australian businesses and it

creates a flow on effect that benefits the entire community,” she said.

“There is huge potential for this kind of product not only on the domestic market but also overseas.

“Everyone loves Aussie products, it’s credible, it’s got value and people love when it says made in Australia.”

Mrs MacLaughlin hopes to introduce Skybury’s own range of Papaya based skincare and health products once the idea gains more traction.

Within just two weeks of stocking the product, Skybury has nearly sold out of their first delivery of the Papaya based skin care products with three more shipments on the way.

Mrs MacLaughlin is always looking for ways to help Australian businesses and is open to support or supply any interested businesses with their Papaya products and many more.

To find out more about the products, visit skybury.com.au/ collections/papaya-skin-care

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The Express, Wednesday, June 10, 2020 PAGE 13

Court rules in favour of live exporters NORTHERN Australian cattle producers are celebrating after the Federal Court ruled a 2011 live export ban imposed by the Commonwealth was unlawful.

Live cattle exports were banned in 2011 after the ABC program 4 corners investigation found Indonesian abattoirs were deliberately being cruel to live Australian cattle.

After 18 months of deliberation, Justice Steven Rares ruled former agriculture minister Joe Ludwig acted with misfeasance when the then Gillard government introduced the ban.

In delivering his judgment, Justice Rares said the ban order was “capricious and unreasonable.”

“I am comfortably satisfied, based on the whole of the evidence, that the minister was recklessly indifferent as to first, the availability of his power to make the Ban Order in its absolutely prohibitory terms without providing any power of exception and, secondly, as to the injury which the order, when effectual, was calculated to produce.”

Queensland Senator, Susan McDonald welcomed the landmark ruling against the Gillard Labor Government’s ban on live exports, and hopes the current Government accepts the decision and pays the required compensation.

“Northern Australia is our primary source of live export cattle and the ban in 2011 decimated not just the industry but all its supporting industries,” she said.

“In addition to graziers, transport companies, mechanics, suppliers and fencers just to name a few were smashed virtually overnight.

“All that live export beef flooded the domestic market, crippling prices and compounding the pain for beef producers across Australia.

“Graziers already battle the uncertainties of commodity prices and weather, so to have your own Government attack you like this was entirely unexpected and – in the words of Justice Stephen Rares – was capricious and unreasonable.”

Cattle Council of Australia (CCA) President Tony Hegarty says the Federal Court ruling will now give Australia’s trading partners greater confidence in Australia’s beef industry.

“Joe Ludwig’s actions undermined the integrity of the Australian beef cattle industry,” Mr Hegarty said.

“Australian beef producers are world leaders in animal welfare, and they should be respected for it.

“The impact was devastating to Northern producers and communities and it trickled right through our industry.

“When our political leaders act in a rash and unpredictable manner, our overseas partners lose confidence in our product and trading relationship.

“This hurt our trading relationship with Indonesia by taking away surety of supply – something our industry prides itself on.

“No other country assures animal welfare standards after export as we do in Australia.

“The industry had already suspended the supply of cattle to three facilities where cruel practices were identified before the ban was imposed – and had introduced better training and practices.

PAGE 14 The Express, Wednesday, June 10, 2020

Wrights Creek Road Bridge to close

Tablelands Regional Council (TRC) have voted to temporarily close Wrights Creek Road Bridge at Lake Eacham, due to safety concerns.

According to TRC Councillor, David Clifton “The Wrights Creek Road Bridge has been re-

assessed and the report indicates it has continued to deteriorate.”

“The bridge is no longer capable of supporting vehicles and will be temporarily closed on June 15. It will remain open to pedestrians and cyclists (maximum of twenty) at one time,”

he said.

At the meeting Council decided that the resolution from the meeting in June 2017 to decommission the bridge was rescinded and options for the reopening of the bridge will be investigated in accordance with

the councils Transport Strategy and budget deliberations.

“The long-term future of the bridge will be considered as part of budget deliberations,” Cr Clifton said.

Wrights Creek Road Bridge will close on Monday, June 15.

NQ First leader cleared by Police NQ First Leader and Whitsunday MP Jason Costigan has been cleared by police for any wrongdoing after entering Cooktown last month.

Cooktown and Cape York were declared Designated Federal Biosecurity Areas on March 27, with strict entry restrictions to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

The NQ First leader who is based in Proserpine, visited the town on May 14 where he an-

nounced his party’s new candidate for the seat of Cook, former Wujal Wujal Mayor Desmond Tayley.

In a written statement Mr Costigan said he had been “Contacted by the Queensland Police Service (QPS) advising him that the QPS would not be pursuing the matter after concluding their investigation.”

“After giving my version of events, I have been advised by a senior detective from Brisbane, who was part of the investiga-

tion, that the QPS would be taking no further action, which came as a relief but as no real surprise, given the advice we received and the steps we took, as noted by the investigators themselves,” he said.

“I want to thank the QPS for putting the matter to bed especially given there had already been an investigation as far as I’m concerned.”

A QPS spokesperson said “The QPS has finalised its investigation into Whitsunday

MP Jason Costigan travelling to Cooktown, a Designated Biosecurity Area, on May 14,” they said.

“Following extensive inquiries, the QPS has determined that there is insufficient evidence to commence a prosecution in relation to an offence under the Biosecurity Act 2015.

“Mr Costigan has been advised of the outcome and no further police action will be taken in relation to the matter.”

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Aussie, Aussie all the way LOCALS are being encouraged to “join the Aussie-made Club” as a new campaign was launched to promote Australian Made.

Everyone wants to do their bit to help in our national economic recovery. Locals can go to the Australian Made website and literally “join the club” – it’s free, you get offers and discounts, and it helps you identify a range of Australian-made products.

It’s all about buying Austral-

ian-made products whenever possible is a really practical way to back local producers and manufacturers.

When you buy Australian Made you’re not just helping the local shop, you’re supporting Aussie manufacturers and all the businesses in their supply chains from farmers to designers.

Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews said the new ad campaign reflects the ground-swell of community support for Austral-

ian products.

“As a country we’ve rallied together to slow the spread of coronavirus, now we need to pull together to back our local businesses and manufacturers,” Minister Andrews said.

“Australians are the first to put up their hand to help in a crisis. As we look to navigate the economic impacts of coronavirus the simplest thing we can do to help is to buy Australian.”

Australian Made Campaign Limited CEO Ben Lazzaro said

the campaign is designed to build on the huge grass-roots movement spawned by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Our website is attracting more than 250,000 visitors a month – a 130% increase on normal. Our social media audience has grown ten-fold since the beginning of this pandemic,” Mr Lazzaro said.

“Australian brands are also seeing the value in using our logo, with a four-fold increase in applications and a doubling in

new licensees.”

The new ad campaign comes after the Morrison Government earlier this year committed $5 million to expand the reach of

the Australian Made logo, so our manufacturers could take on new markets around the world.

Visit www.australianmade. com.au

Warmer and wetter winter for Tablelands THE Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has released its 2020 Winter Outlook, with most of the country showing an increased likelihood of wetter than average conditions in the coming three months.

There is a more than 70 per cent chance of above-average rainfall for much of inland Australia this winter.

Greg Browning who is a Climatologist at the BOM says this winter is going to be warmer and wetter for the Tablelands.

“Starting with rainfall, it’s

a 50/50 chance of above-average rainfall. The odds are even for the Tablelands area having above-average rainfall but the odds reduce the further north you go,” he said.

“Especially north of Cooktown the odds turn in favour of below-average rainfall, “Most places along the North Tropical Coast and inland over towards the eastern gulf is looking to be about average to aboveaverage rainfall over the next 3 months.”

As for temperatures Mr

Browing says there’s a pretty strong chance of above-average minimum and maximum temperatures over the next three months.

“It’s going to be pretty warm for the whole northern half of Queensland. The odds are stacked towards warmer days and nights (above average) right across winter.

With a wetter and warmer winter, Mr Browing says there could be a bit of fuel around for spring bushfire season.

“We are looking at higher ex-

amples of humidity so it's looking to be a less dangerous fire season than it has been for the next 3 months only.’ He said “We are looking at aboveaverage temperatures which is bad for fires but we are looking at above-average rainfall which could mitigate the chance of an early bushfire season.

“Conditions are looking at being slightly wetter than they were 12 months ago, so we aren’t looking at the extreme heat conditions that we had last year.”

The Bureau's Manager of

Long-range Forecasts, Dr Andrew Watkins, said there were only a few areas across the country that weren't looking at a wetter than average winter.

“Most areas of mainland Australia are showing a better than 70 per cent chance of having a wetter than average winter,” Dr Watkins said.

Dr Watkins said the outlook was being largely driven by warmer than average ocean temperatures off north-west WA, as well as warm ocean temperatures in the western Pacific.

"Ocean temperatures in the eastern Indian Ocean are currently warmer than normal, and our models are predicting they will warm further throughout the winter months.” He said “The warmer ocean temperatures surrounding the continent will push us in the direction of better than average rainfall.

“Conversely, it means our nights are more likely to be warmer than average because that cloud cover will prevent heat from escaping during the evenings.”

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The Express, Wednesday, June 10, 2020 PAGE 15

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ABOVE: At The Gateway Hotel in Mareeba was Geoffrey Savage, Carline Savage and Sue Savage enjoying lunch on Friday and (below) mates Glen Stafford and Dave Emery at the front bar with an ice cold beer.

RIGHT: Barmaid Abby Koitka at the Malanda Hotel was happy to be pouring a beer again.

BELOW: John Malachowski and Joe Cardillo at the Barron Valley Hotel in Atherton.

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www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Airport mural tells story of seasons INSTANT ASSET WRITEOFF FOR ABN HOLDERS 3

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A STORY time mural has been painted at the Mareeba Airport which depicts the ‘natural calendar of seasons’ relating to the early history of the Mareeba district.

The mural, completed last Friday by Aboriginal artist AnnMarie Keating, can be seen on the wall of the departure room at the Mareeba Airport.

Mrs Keating’s extraordinary talents have already been recognised in Mareeba after her part in the mural on the walls of the Mareeba Arcade with local artist Tom Cosic.

Mareeba Shire Council proudly funded the mural through the Regional Arts Development Fund; the Regional Arts Development Fund is a partnership between the Queensland Government and Mareeba Shire Council to support local arts and culture in regional Queensland.

The mural Mrs Keating has painted tells the story of how different migratory birds brought with them a change between the wet and dry seasons; this story has been passed down through the Koko-Muluridji people for many years.

“During the wet, Brolgas and Pelicans from the coast follow the river system feeding along the river and billabongs all the way to Lake Eyre,” Mrs. Keating said.

“When our wet season ends first come the black cockatoos which are running away from the rain in Papua New Guinea, then mutton birds, magpie geese , galahs and corellas are all following the food sources.”

Both Gullara and Jillahkull, Mrs. Keating’s daughters, had a hand in creating the story-time mural which is dedicated to late Elder Mervyn Riley.

Tom Cosic also had his tal-

ents preserved the walls of the Airport after he depicted two WWII planes, an American B17 Bomber and an Australian built Boomerang fighter which were both stationed at the Mareeba Airport since 1943.

FNQ Aviation Museum spokesman Brendan Kent said that the murals enhanced the aviation exhibits and that bigger things were planned for a more permanent attraction.

“We want to display how aviation has played a big part in the history of the Far North and we would appreciate any help we can get from the community,” he said.

The FNQ Aviation Museum is currently in the process of leasing a large block from the Mareeba Shire Council to help with the airport development and plans for a static display of a Boomerang fighter, a DC3 and a Tiger Moth in the near future.

$26,740 DRIVE AWAY 1

20MY MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER BLACK EDITION CVT AUTO • Front Fog Lamps • Reverse Parking Sensors • Rear Spoiler • Black 18” Alloy Wheels • Black Roof Rail • Privacy Glass

7 YEAR / 150,000KLM WARRANTY2 FROM ONLY

$33,690 DRIVE AWAY 1

S INCLU DE ALLOY E ID DRO P S TR AY

20MY MITSUBISHI PAJERO SPORT GLX 4X4 AUTO • Electric Park Brake Auto Hold • All Power Window Auto Up/Down • 8” SDA with Touchscreen • Cornering Lights on Front Bumper • Forward Collison Mitigation • Super Select II 4WD

7 YEAR / 150,000KLM WARRANTY2 FROM ONLY

$45,990 DRIVE AWAY 1

20MY MITSUBISHI TRITON GLX 4X2 PETROL MANUAL SINGLE CAB • 5 Speed Manual Transmission • Halogen Headlamps • Power Door Mirrors • i-Pod Control • Smart Brake • 7 SRS Airbags

7 YEAR / 150,000KLM WARRANTY2 FROM ONLY

$23,490 DRIVE AWAY 1

S INCLU DE ALLOY E DROPSID TR AY

20MY MITSUBISHI TRITON GLX 20MY MITSUBISHI TRITON GLX 4X4 MANUAL DUAL CAB UTILITY 4X4 MANUAL DUAL CAB CHASSIS • Easy Select 4WD • Two Speed Transfer • All Terrain Tyres • Reverse Camera • Fabric Seat Trim • Accessory Power Socket

• Central Door Locking • Steering Wheel Audio Controls • Tilt and Telescopic Steering Column • Side and Rear Window Demisters • Front Tow Hook • Power Steering

7 YEAR / 150,000KLM WARRANTY2 FROM ONLY

$34,490 DRIVE AWAY 1

7 YEAR / 150,000KLM WARRANTY2 FROM ONLY

$35,740 DRIVE AWAY 1

Local artist Tom Cosic’s depictions of WWII planes can now also be seen on the walls of the airport.

Dog attacks are no accident MAREEBA Shire Council has unfortunately seen an increase in the number of dog attacks across the Shire.

These attacks have involved other animals and children.

Dog attacks are incredibly traumatic for everyone involved including pet own-

ers, families and staff who have to respond to these incidents.

Dog attacks are no accident and Council is issuing a stern warning to all dog owners to be responsible.

You must ensure your dog remains in a safe and

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secure enclosure at all times and when out of the property is kept on a lead and restrained. T o report a dog attack, rushing or aggression shown towards other animals or people, please call 1300 308 461.

313-315 Byrnes Street, Mareeba 4092 5100 | www.mareebamitsubishi.com.au AFTER HOURS: David Mete 0408 793 050 Peter Acha 0417 006 698 or Adrian Madrid 0413 745 247 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 May and 30 June, 2020. Excludes Government, Rental and National Fleet customers.

1 Recommended DRIVE AWAY selling price, including 12 months registration, CTP Insurance, Stamp Duty & Dealer Delivery. 2 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. 3 For ABN holders who meet eligibility criteria. For more information speak to your accountant or a qualified tax professional. See mitsubishi-motors.com.au for further information.

The Express, Wednesday, June 10, 2020 PAGE 17

e r e h y a d i l o H this year!

E W E R A O S & N E P O QUEENSLAND IS

Stay Inspired... Join one of our local comedy tours Travel intrastate Book flights across our great State Check out our range of Australian and International Small Group Tours for 2021

We are always here for you and always ready to help

Email: info@idaportella.com.au l Phone: 0439 545 433 l Via Appointment Only: 186 Byrnes Street, Mareeba PAGE 18 The Express, Wednesday, June 10, 2020

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

LETTERS Uniting news across the Tablelands

As a regular reader of your newspaper, I Sincerely hope The Express can fill the void and be the uniting news for the whole Tablelands, prospering as you should. Best wishes.

John Philippa HERBERTON

Police and guns

Here in Australia we got rid of guns then armed the Police with guns. They have to walk about with it on their hip on full display for some crazy reason in this law abiding nation. This is not America with millions of guns in almost every home in the nation, this is Australia.

I am sure most police hate guns and would be devastated if they personally shot someone in the course of their duty, just the act could ruin the officer for life, the mental stress realising that you have killed someone .

When we came to Australia in 1960 the police didn’t carry guns of any type and we felt safe, the police would always negotiate, however long it took and if it was needed specialist police were called in trained for the job.

If Police carry guns the people who do illegal things believe that they also have to carry guns and it becomes a thing that grows and grows, the right to bear arms in the USA is a cancer on their nation and is nothing to do with the sport of target shooting or the farmers need to kill

HAVE YOUR SAY

editorial@theexpressnewspaper.com.au or send to 186 Byrnes St, Mareeba

feral animals, it is based on fear and born of stupidity.

I can remember when our local Sergeant of Police had to keep his gun in his Police car glove box and his ammunition somewhere else, not on his hip.

Now we hear of Police shooting dead, people with just a knife instead of waiting for the situation to quieten, I don’t blame the officer but I do blame the people who put that officer in that terrible position... he may never be the same, it could ruin his life and cause family breakdown and this is seen far too often in our Police Force at this time.

Sidearm’s are a menace, too easy to use in the wrong way and too many of them around... this is not America.

I write this with real concern for my children and grand children in the future and great concern for our own police friends.

Grahame West RAVENSHOE

Don’t always trust the modelling

The coronavirus computer models that forecast swamped hospitals and thousands of Aussie deaths were hopelessly wrong.

We all saw the predictions fail and the supporting hypotheses falsified by the lived experience.

COVID-19 didn’t achieve community spread here; probably due to our hot climate and default good hygiene.

Politicians put all their faith in the experts’ computer-magic,

when you love local, you grow local

and failed to adequately consider the economic consequences of lockdown.

The experts will keep their well-paid jobs regardless, and politicians will pretend they’ve saved us from disaster.

Who else relies on expert computer-magic? That’s right; the global warming alarmists.

If we learn nothing else from the COVID-19 era, we must learn that models are just computer games for nerds and they cannot substitute for empirical evidence.

Peter Campion Tolga

Help us make bike riding safer

The COVID-19 pandemic has shown Queenslanders that we are strong and resilient, and more than capable of adapting to changed circumstances when we can see a common goal.

Bicycle Queensland would like to encourage you to take that same spirit of resilience and adaptability into the post-pandemic world.

Bike riding and sales of bicycles boomed during the home confinement phase of COVID-19 restrictions.

Won’t you join us in working with local and State governments towards safe routes to school, work and shops?

We need to provide safe spaces for people to ride, and the time to act is now.

Rebecca Randazzo CEO – Bicycle Queensland

OPINION

All lives should matter THIS week we have seen ‘Black lives matter’ marches springing up across the globe.

In Australia, these marches were not only protesting police brutality against black people in America but also the alarming rates of Aboriginal deaths in custody and incarceration.

Several levels of government tried stopping the marches, saying that organisers couldn’t guarantee social distancing during the current COVID crisis.

While in the same week crowds will return to watch the NRL, with a few conditions.

The NSW Government told the NRL last Friday that up to 50 people per corporate box would be allowed, pending the approval of a biosecurity plan.

Venues such as Bankwest Stadium have multiple boxes and lounges that can be split into different sections on top of their corporate boxes, meaning the number of at-

tendees will be able to climb much higher.

The move will allow club sponsors to return and watch matches.

The ruling only applies to food and drink areas such as corporate suites and does not apply to the grandstands or general viewing areas.

As much as the NRL crows about being for the fans, ordinary fans won’t be able to get into a corporate box.

This is just straight-up corporate greed; they want their sponsors and their mates in the box but haven’t worried about the general rugby league loving public.

Shakespeare couldn’t have written a better metaphor.

Corporate sponsors can now leave their house, go to the footy, enjoy a beer or seven and some party pies and sausage rolls.

‘Black lives matter’ marches had to go to court to fight for their democratic right to march.

Earlier this week, Prime

Minister Scott Morrison and Health Minister Greg Hunt warned people not to attend the protests, saying the pandemic was far from over.

“We respect deeply people’s right to express themselves. It’s fundamental to who we are. We respect the compassion behind those concerns, but we say at this moment in time there is a better way,” Mr Hunt said.

“There’s always a time for protests, but it’s not at this moment, not in a mass gathering form.”

But the same concerns do not affect the NRL and their sponsors.

We can’t have concerts, plays, theatre, I can’t take my 7-year-old to see an educational dinosaur show, but we can watch men not worry about social distancing while they run at and tackle each other.

Yes, Black lives matter, in fact, all lives matter, but some matter more than others.

PHOTO OF THE WEEK

The theme was Feet. “I took this one at Lake Tinaroo when the weather was a whole lot warmer than it is now. We’d been kayaking and I decided to jump in for a bit of a swim. Couldn’t resist taking this photo for a bit of fun...tropical coloured toenails and such a gorgeous day.” LISA MCGREGOR

ENTER YOUR PHOTOS VIA THE FACEBOOK PAGE – Tablelands and Surrounding Photography Group –

When you support local business, you help local businesses to GROW, you help create more local JOBS and you help build a stronger local ECONOMY.

StayLOCAL

ShopLOCAL

our shire, our community, our future www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

With Phil Brandel @Philbrandel1

SupportLOCAL

Mareeba

Chamber of Commerce

The Express, Wednesday, June 10, 2020 PAGE 19

ExprEsso 

Your Weekly Horoscopes

Aries



March 21 to Apr 20

Don’t overspend to impress others. You may find that someone you really cared for in the past has come back into your life. You may find that others do not do things the way you want; however, if the job gets done, let it pass.

Taurus

April 21 to May 21

Don’t get so wrapped up in being rich that you overlook the fact that your plan may not be as solid as you thought. You will reach the most people if you speak out at an organizational function.

Gemini

May 22 to June 21

Your self confidence will attract members of the opposite sex Stand up and propose your ideas, and you’ll be surprised how many people will follow you. You can’t win and they won’t listen.

Cancer

June 22 to July 22

Use discrimination and play hard to get. Get busy trying to make more money. Don’t cause a scene, but when you get home let your partner know how you feel and why. Patience will be of utmost importance.

July 23 to Aug 22 Leo

Wednesday 10th

Thursday 11th

Friday 12th

Saturday 13th

Sunday 14th

Tide Times 0050 2.67 0801 1.41 1245 1.70 1827 1.15

Tide Times 0201 2.52 0931 1.36 1427 1.66 1935 1.33

Tide Times 0314 2.43 1028 1.27 1602 1.75 2103 1.45

Tide Times 0416 2.40 1106 1.18 1708 1.90 2227 1.48

Tide Times 0503 2.37 1138 1.08 1754 2.06 2327 1.46

Max 25o Min 18o

Max 24o Min 17o

Max 26o Min 19o

Chilli Lime chicken

10 mins preparation ● 20 minutes cooking ● serves 6

▶ 1kg skin on chicken thighs Marinade: ▶ 1/2 cup fresh lime juice ▶ 3 tsp fresh lime zest ▶ 1/4 cup olive oil ▶ 4 tbls fresh parsley, chopped finely ▶ 2 jalapeño, chopped finely ▶ 4 garlic cloves, chopped finely ▶ 1 tbls honey ▶ 2 tsp salt ▶ 1 tsp chilli powder or to taste

WORD SEARCH

Capricorn

Dec 22 to Jan 20

3. What can you catch but never throw?

4. What 4-letter word can be written forward, backward or upside down, and can still be read from left to right?

Almond

Bamboo

Caviar

Olive

Anchovy

Barbecue

Chef

Pear

Anise

Basil

Crab

Ravioli

Artichoke

Butter

Cracker

Soy

Avocado

Cake

Cream

Steak

Bacon

Candy

Dairy

Taste

Bake

Cater

Noodle

Wheat

Puzzle solutions

Praise will be yours if you have been pursuing your goals. You won’t be able to keep a secret.

You may be emotional and quick to judge others. You may think gifts will win their heart, but it could add stress from lack of funds.

PAGE 20 The Express, Wednesday, June 10, 2020

6. How can you leave a room with two legs and return with six legs?

7. If you were running a race, and you passed the person in 2nd place, what place would you be in now?

9. It has a long neck, A name of a bird, Feeds on cargo of ships, It’s not alive, what is it?

10. You can see it everyday, But cannot touch it at will. What is it?

1. a die (dice) 2. a fence 3. a cold 4. NOON 5. the car door 6. bring a chair back 7. 2nd place 8. THAT 9. a crane 10. the sky

Feb 20 to March 20

5. A man in a car saw a Golden Door, Silver Door and a Bronze Door. What door did he open first?

8. Railroad Crossing, look out for the cars. Can you spell that, without any R’s?

Jan 21 to Feb 19

You may find that your documents are not in order. Someone may be trying to damage your reputation. You will want to complain about the in justice that is going on, You may find that your documents are not in order.

Pisces

BrAin teAser 2. What runs around the whole yard without moving?

Be careful while traveling. Try to avoid being extravagant this month. Your high energy and discipline will enable you to complete any seemingly insurmountable tasks. You may find yourself in the midst of a pretty good deal.

Aquarius

Enter digits from 1 to 9 into the blank spaces. Every row must contain one of each digit. So must every column, as must every 3x3 square.

1. What has six faces, but does not wear makeup, has twenty-one eyes, but cannot see? What is it?

Oct 24 to Nov 22

Nov 23 to Dec 21 Don’t start any arguments unless you’re prepared to accept irrevocable results. Business trips will be more productive than trying to fight the red tape facing you.

Take things slowly, especially for the sake of those you love.

sudoku

Tide Times 0012 1.43 0611 2.32 1233 0.92 1904 2.35

Directions: solve the following riddles, by answering the questions.

Sept 24 to Oct 23

Sagittarius

Tide Times 0539 2.35 1207 1.00 1831 2.21

Tuesday 16th

Max 25o Min 17o

of the week

Aug 23 - Sept 23

You have a tendency to think that no one else will do things properly. You have more than enough on your plate already. Be prudent and don’t be led down the garden path.

Max 26o Min 19o

ENJOY!

Changes to your self image will be to your benefit as long as you don’t over pay. Time to deal with institutional environments, government agencies, and matters of a private nature this month.

Scorpio

Monday 15th

1. Rinse the chicken thighs, remove the bones, leave the skin on, and pat dry with paper towels. Set aside.

2. Get a big bowl, mixing all the ingredients of the marinade together using a whisk.

Make sure the Marinade is well combined together.

3. Add chicken to the marinade, make sure to stir and coat the chicken evenly. Marinate for 2 hours.

4. Fire up the grill, brush a little bit of oil on the surface. Add a little bit of the garlic, parsley, and jalapeno from the marinade on top of the chicken and grill them until they turn golden brown and charred on both sides. Serve immediately.

Don’t do something silly just to get back at your mate. Try to deal with it quickly; don’t dwell on past regrets. Take care of your personal needs.

Libra

Max 26o Min 19o

Method

Ingredients

Don’t make financial contributions in order to impress others.

Interaction with colleagues will only be upsetting. This is a great day to start that new health regimen you’ve been talking about.

Virgo

Max 27o Min 20o

Take a break!

Did you know...

You can read each edition online and that all our local stories are FREE to read and always will be? www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au for your FREE local news! www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

PROPERTY

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

Outstanding custom built home on acreage This outstanding custom-built “Shane Smith” sandstone block home is a stunning, private sanctuary. Your very own retreat with tropical gardens and privacy assured, positioned on 5 acres only 5 minutes from Mareeba town centre.

The home offers a sophisticated fusion of light and space with multiple living areas all overlooking the landscaped gardens to create a true indoor/outdoor living space.

Make no mistake; this home is unlike any other on the market in Mareeba today.

Quality features include: • Enticing floor plan consisting of a generous open plan living area that incorporates the lounge, dining room and kitchen and boasts 2.7m high ceilings throughout • Fully tiled and air-conditioned and complemented with feature niches and timber accents throughout • Superb modern kitchen incorporating Smeg stainless steel appliances including a dishwasher, gas cooktop and integrated microwave as well

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as electric press touch opening drawers and servery from the kitchen to the verandah • Stunning lounge and dining area with floor to ceiling glass doors opening onto the outdoor entertainment area custom designed to bring the outside in • 3 generous bedrooms with built-ins and direct access to the verandah – Master with sizeable built-in & ensuite, 4th bedroom/rumpus with built-in hutch • Ample storage and linen cupboards throughout • Huge covered outdoor entertainment area with UV protected translucent iron • Generous laundry with built-in cupboards and bench space • 6m x 9m powered shed with roller door access + 3m lean-to, generator outlet and Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

enclosed bathroom and toilet area with separate septic system • 3 Rainwater tanks - connected to all taps, basins and dishwasher • Bore water connection to Hot water system, toilet and shower • Irrigated 5 acre allotment beautifully landscaped with a variety of native timber trees and ornamentals • Bitumen driveway This home represents a lifestyle opportunity of unsurpassed quality and absolute sophistication.

For further information or to arrange a private inspection of the Mareeba property, please call exclusive agent Joe Torrisi on 0417 700 468 at Joe Torrisi Real Estate.

27 Shaban Close, MAREEBA $560,000 NEG EXCLUSIVE to Joe Torrisi Joe Torrisi Real Estate 0417 700 468

The Express, Wednesday, June 10, 2020 PAGE 21

PROPERTY

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

Modern complex of 3 x 2 bedroom units returning $51,480 per year

RETURNING an income of close to $1000 per week, this is a great opportunity to pur-

chase a modern complex of 3 x 2 bedroom units on one title with no body corporate fees.

Conveniently located to schools and the Mareeba CBD area, the 3 units are fully

air conditioned and have an interior layout that will appeal to any tenant. Each unit fea-

3 BEDROOMS + OFFICE & SHED

BEAUTIFUL HOME, HUGE SHED, PRIVATE SETTING • 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 PAGE 22 The Express, Wednesday, June 10, 2020

• SOLID MASONRY BLOCK INTERNAL & EXTERNAL • A/C IN LIVING AREA & BRMS, STYLISH NEW KITCHEN • BUILT-INS, S/SCREENS & OFFICE + BUILT-IN DESKS • 866M2 FENCED + 6M X 6M POWERED C/BOND SHED

PRICE: $349,000 NEG JOE 0417 700 468 WWW.JOETORRISI.COM.AU

tures a modern kitchen, bathroom, security screens, tiled throughout and built-in wardrobes in all the bedrooms.

Other features • Rendered concrete block construction • Separate tenant undercover parking • Fenced for privacy with garden shed • Firewalls in place - potential to divide into separate strata titles (STCA)

week • Unit 2 rents for $330p/ week • Unit 3 rents for $330p/ week Total rental income of $990p/week represents 7.4% pa gross return on listed price You will definitely be impressed so don't delay or you will miss out on this great opportunity to purchase a fantastic investment - 3 beautiful modern units in one complex.

The property is currently managed by Ray White who take the worry out of looking after the tenants and making sure that your investment is protected.

• Unit 1 rents for $330p/

For more information or to organise your private inspection contact the exclsuvie marketing agent, John Goncalves at Ray White Mareeba on 0407 690 961.

Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

MAREEBA $695,000 NEG EXCLUSIVE to John Goncalves Ray White Mareeba 0407 690 961

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

PROPERTY

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

Nicely priced, very neat and tidy THIS well priced, lowset timber home offers great opportunity for an entry-level purchase or an investment. Very neat and tidy inside and out with all the basics in place, close to town, schools and medical facilities.

The home boasts 3 good sized bedrooms and an additional office/sleepout. There are separate but adjoining lounge and dining rooms with featured hardwood timber flooring. The kitchen is practical and convenient with overhead storage and vinyl flooring.

Out the back there is a convenient little deck which has been added for those morning coffees, or a great little BBQ area in the evening.

There is also a large, double-length carport which in-

corporates the laundry area, and could easily double as an excellent outdoor entertaining area. The fenced property has established lawns, gardens, a spacious backyard with enough room to keep a pet or two. There is also a 3x3m garden shed for your storage convenience.

As you look around the home, it becomes more and more evident that it is great as is or could be a project to upgrade some of the features and fittings.

• 3 bedroom plus office, 1 bathroom timber home • Very good condition, move in straight away • Hardwood timber floors in living areas and bedrooms • Practical and convenient kitchen with stove-oven • Convenient deck added right at the back door

• Double-length carport, incorporates the laundry area • 3x3m garden shed, landscaped gardens • Situated on a fenced 1,012m2 allotment This is a great opportunity

to enter the property market at a very affordable price.

To book your private inspection, call exclusive agent Remo Esposito on 4092 2232 or 0401 969 473.

Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

159 Byrnes Street Mareeba QLD 4880 www.crmareeba.com

14 Wilson St, MAREEBA $235,000 EXCLUSIVE to Remo Esposito Central Realty Mareeba 0401 969 473

REMO ESPOSITO 0401 969 473 remo@crmareeba.com

VINCE COSTAS 0419 926 691 vince@crmareeba.com

GET A FREE PROPERTY MARKET REPORT FROM MAREEBA’S #1 AGENCY CALL TO DISCUSS YOUR PROPERTY www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

4092 2232

The Express, Wednesday, June 10, 2020 PAGE 23

A Air Conditioning & Refrigeration B Blinds C

DIRECTORY F Floor Coverings G General Engineering Graphic Design

Childcare Cleaning D Dental E Electrical

AIR CONDITIONING

H Hardware I Irrigation I.T M

CHILDCARE

Mowing Services P Painter Pest Management

Plumbing Pool Maintenance S Sandblasting/ Painting

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

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

R & C AIRCONDITIONING & REFRIGERATION

TABLELAND

Cleaning Services

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

AIR-CONDITIONER

Phone: David or Julie 4092 3982 or 0428 993 205 Email: tablelandcleaning@outlook.com

 All Brands  Prompt Service  Installation Also Available 

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

MAREEBA DENTURE SERVICE Paul Johnstone

Phone DAVID AVOLIO on 0409 924 006

your local buSINESS guide

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

Trust the BLIND specialists!

Vertical & Venetian Blinds Panel Glides > Timber Blinds

MAREEBA FLOOR COVERING CENTRE 159 Walsh St, Mareeba P: 4092 5466 M: 0419 736 229

Registration No. 931417

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

BLINDS

Supply & Fit

obrien.com.au

For $36 per week this spot could be yours!

ELECTRICAL SOLAR & BATTERIES AIR CONDITIONING

phone the Express today 4092 3464

your local buSINESS GuIDE

GRAPHIC DESIGN FLOOR COVERINGS

R

DENTAL TECHNICIAN DENTAL PROSTHETIST

bLINDS

QBCC No. 1275266

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

G

Lic. No. LO21176

COOL AIR

mareeba@electrical.obrien.com.au

DENTAL

DAVE’S

n cool air Breath clea mes first! e n co where hygie

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

(07) 4092 4146

For all your interior & exterior cleaning!

• Bond Cleans • Mould & Mildew Treatments • Pressure Cleaning, Roofs & Exteriors • Carpet Cleaning • Floor Stripping & Polishing • Contract Cleaning FULLY INSURED ~ LOCAL FAMILY BUSINESS

CLEANING

All types of welding, lathe work and milling.

CLEANING

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

Call Ross Malfitana Mobile: 0429 898 657

GENERAL ENGINEERING

O’Brien Electrical Mareeba

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

P: 4092 3019

Security Self Removal & Storage T Transport Tree Lopping

Certain work defined as “building work” in the QBCC legislation may only be undertaken by licensed contractors, or if undertaken by unlicensed contractors, only to the value of $3,300.

However, work falling outside that definition may be performed by unlicensed contractors and is not subject to any value limit.

To check whether a contractor holds a QBCC licence visit: www.qbcc.qld.gov.au or call the QBCC on 1300 272 272.

Advertising has never been more affordable!

Carpet • Vinyl • CeramiCs Floating Floors • Blinds

Mareeba 4092 2800 Atherton 4091 3300

FLOORS

this spot could be yours!

phone the Express today 4092 3464

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 24 The Express, Wednesday, June 10, 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 159 Walsh St, Mareeba P: 4092 5466 M: 0419 736 229

HIC D ES

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

Trust the FLOOR Covering Man!

MAREEBA FLOOR COVERING CENTRE

AP

N

INDEX

business

DIRECTORY www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

business IRRIGATION

DIRECTORY PAINTER

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

M. HARTLEY PTY LTD TRADING AS

BELL HARTLEY & CO. IrrIgatIon DesIgn & supply

• 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:

PAINTING CONTRACTORS

P: 4092 1179 M: 0418 184 147 E: markterri70@bigpond.com PO BOX 1414, MAREEBA

NO OBLIGATION FREE QUOTES!

QBCC 1115490

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

 Freight Distribution  Warehouse Storage

CAIRNS • MOSSMAN • TABLELANDS DAILY

YARRABAH SERVICE TWICE WEEKLY Email: admin@pmcarriers.com 247 Hartley Street, Portsmith CASH OR ACCOUNT CUSTOMERS WELCOME

4035 2034

PEST MANAGEMENT

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this spot could be yours!

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phone the Express today 4092 3464

aburra, Ravenshoe, Herberton, Koah, Speewah,

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

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

TRANSPORT

POOL MAINTENANCE

1 Vaughan Street, Mareeba

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

SANDBLASTING/ PAINTING

don, Forsayth, Einsleigh, Karumba, Georgetown,

FARM DELIVERIES WELCOMED!

TELEPHONE: 4092 7680

Cairns, Mossman, Port Douglas

Sandblasting & Painting

and many more in between!

I.T

BURRATRONICS SALES, SERVICE AND REPAIRS

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phone the Express today 4092 3464

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• Laptops, Tablets, and Towers • Custom Systems • Phone and Tablet Repairs and Accessories • Networking Solutions PH: (07) 4092 7038 www.burratronics.com.au BURRATRONICS

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

Servicing Atherton Tablelands • Fully Insured

For $36 per week this spot could be yours!

phone the Express today 4092 3464

TREE LOPPING

QBCC No. 1275266

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

your local BUSINESS guide

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

PLUMBING

QBCC 15093635 ABN 63 148 132 843

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

your local BUSINESS GUIDE

TABLELANDS TREELOPPING

SECURITY

• 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

Wally Amory - Mareeba Depot Manager Phone: 0421 839 353 mrboperations@exodas.com.au

AINT QUALIT Y PION T C E T O R P ED GUARANTE

Shop 3, 203-215 Byrnes Street Mareeba

MOWING SERVICES

Excellence Through Perseverance and Diligence

Call Jon Lambert

P: 4091 5008 M: 0407 575 916

SELF REMOVAL & STORAGE

Self Removal & StoRage 6 Metre Units For Hire: $150 Per Month

PROFESSIONAL TREE SERVICE SERVICING NORTH QUEENSLAND

24 hour access and you supply your own lock.

22 Lawson Street, Mareeba

0418 772 791 www.selfremovalstorage.com.au

your local BUSINESS guide

P: 4095 4595

E: aataylorstreelopping@outlook.com

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

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!

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

DIRECTORY

The Express, Wednesday, June 10, 2020 PAGE 25

CLASSIfIedS phone us: 4092 3464

email us: admin@theexpressnewspaper.com.au

ChurCh NotiCe

Birthday

Presbyterians continue to meet in Mareeba for worship each Sunday 10am, QCWA Hall, Wilkes Street (behind Meals on Wheels) ~ All Welcome!

REID BAILEY ELLEMS

Happy 8th Birthday

4TH JUNE, 2020 Lots of love Grandad and Nan.

iN MeMoriaM

Reid Bailey Ellems Happy 8th Birthday 4TH JUNE, 2020

Lots of love, Dad & Jill.

William John Hornung

WaNted to Buy

12/02/1933 ~ 15/06/2016 Mum & Dad, My heart still aches in sadness, and secret tears still flow, for what it meant to lose you both, no one will ever know.

8

Happy 8th Birthday

Reid Bailey Ellems 4th June, 2020

Love from Great Grandad & Great Nanna.

Love Always Tina & Olly.

REID BAILE Y ELLEMS IN LOVING MEMORY OF

Josephine Fichera

20th December, 1949 to 5th June, 2013.

4th June HAPPY 8TH BIRTHDAY Love from Great Grandma.

20 20

WANTED

Phone 0408 770 058

PuBliC NotiCe

Remembering you is easy, we do it every day, But missing you is a heartache that never goes away.

Sadly missed and always remembered by your loving Mother, Sister Connie & Joe & Family & Brother Joe & Trina & Family.

Would you like to ADVERTISE??

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

death NotiCe

Pets

Adopt-A-pet

GORDON, Leslie James Loved Father, Grandfather, Father-In-Law, Brother, Uncle and Cousin to many.

“Les will be sadly missed by his family and close friends.”

Guilfoyle Funeral Services Chapels, Crematorium & Memorial Gardens

Atherton: 4091 2147 Mareeba: 4092 1013 Local Family Owned & “Entrusted for over 70 years”

www.guilfoylefunerals.com.au

Hi Everyone, My name is Arlo. I am an American Staffy who lived happily on a farm until I moved into town. That was not good. I need another farm! Phone 4092 3060 for more information.

Contact the refuge on 4092 3060.

Hickling Avenue, Mareeba

PORTCH, Ernest Edward Late of Dimbulah. Passed away at the Mareeba Hospital on Friday the 29th of May, 2020.

Aged 87 years.

Brother of Margaret Portch of Dimbulah.

“Ernie will be sadly missed by all his friends and extended families.”

As per “Ernie’s wishes”, a private cremation has taken place.

Guilfoyle Funeral Services Chapels, Crematorium & Memorial Gardens

Atherton: 4091 2147 Mareeba: 4092 1013 Local Family Owned & “Entrusted for over 70 years”

www.guilfoylefunerals.com.au

Q-MSC2020-12 DESIGN SERVICES MAREEBA POUND & FACILITIES Mareeba Shire Council hereby invites written submissons for the provision of Design Services - Mareeba Pound & Facilities.

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 5 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 16 June, 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

Wondecla Markets on 21st June 2020 If you would like a stall please ring Margaret or if you would just like to have a nice day out come along.

Distancing and sanitising will be in place.

Late of Mareeba. Passed away in Townsville on Thursday the 28th of May, 2020. Aged 70 Years.

Due to the current Covid-19 restrictions, a private family funeral will be held.

Community Consultation Land Management Plan for the Mareeba Wetlands. Forever Wild Ltd advises that a Land Management Plan for the Mareeba Wetlands is open for public consultation for a period of 30 days from the publication of this advert. Submissions should be in writing and sent to: PO Box 175 Mareeba Qld 4880 or via email.

A copy of the Land Management Plan is available at Level 1, 186 Byrnes Street, Mareeba during office opening hours or by email upon request to: twenquiries@foreverwild.com.au

HAPPY 60TH BIRTHDAY EDDIE TOFFANELLO It would take an entire newspaper to share all the love and appreciation we and so many others have for you.

Congratulations on reaching yet another special milestone in your life.

We love the kind, caring, jovial person you are and always have been.

But most of all we love you because you’re ‘Dad’.

Have the most wonderful day.

We’re all very proud of you.

Always yours, Emma, Celeste, Xenia, Zanthe, Luis and Morena. XO

www.mareebaanimalrefuge.com.au

FuNeral DEBBIE BOARDMAN

Funeral Celebrant Final farewells with respect.

Phone 0410 328 357

PAGE 26 The Express, Wednesday, June 10, 2020

traiNiNg/ Courses SSAA Atherton Firearms Safety Course 13th June Cats A,B,C and H. Call Tony 0428 527 445

PositioN VaCaNt

COASTAL BLACK WATTLE LOGS (Blackwood) from Cairns to Ingham.

Also Kuranda and Julatten areas.

13/07/1925 ~ 11/06/2014

Pearl Edith Hornung

fax us: 4092 6346

New Café, Bar and Motel in Mareeba.

OPENING SOON. We need great staff!

RESUMES: reception@capegatewaymotel.com.au ...and specify what role you are applying for! **Please NO applications in person** FULL TIME CHEF PART TIME CHEF PART TIME COOK We’re looking for: • Trade qualification / equivalent industry experience • Neat / tidy and punctual • Works well under pressure • Willing to take direction from Head Chef KITCHEN HAND We’re looking for: • Basic kitchen knowledge • Knife handling experience • Neat / tidy and punctual • Be prepared to back up the wait staff • Willing to take direction from Head Chef BARISTA / WAIT STAFF We’re looking for: • Barista experience a must • Passion for great customer service • RSA qualification

WALL AND FLOOR TILING APPRENTICESHIP At busy tiling business in Mareeba.

Full time and school based applications will be considered.

To make an application please send a copy of your resume & cover letter to: ericiacutone@bigpond.com

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

Follow us on Facebook For all the latest news updates.

Did you know...

You can read each edition online and that all our local stories are FREE to read and always will be? www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au for your FREE local news!

The ExprEss NEwspapEr delivers to: Mareeba, Dimbulah, Kuranda, Walkamin, Tolga, Atherton, Kairi, Malanda, Millaa Millaa, 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!

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

SPORT Local league cancelled THE 2020 Cairns District Rugby League (CDRL) season has been cancelled.

The decision was made at the league’s board meeting on Monday, June 1, with all clubs voting unanimously to cancel the season.

The 2020 season was originally only going to be postponed until later in the year, however even with restrictions being eased several clubs voiced their concerns about the number of spectators allowed to attend the games.

Without a certain number of spectators to attend the games, clubs could not pay their players or officials or cover the costs to keep the facilities running.

Nine out of the eleven teams in the CDRL competition attended the meeting with the Yarrabah Seahawks and Kangaroos unable to attend due to technical issues.

CDRL Secretary Pat Bailey was disappointed about the season’s cancellation but has assured loyal fans that they will be back ‘bigger and better’ in 2021.

“The last time a CDRL season was cancelled was due to WWII in the 1940’s,” she said.

“However the health of the players and the spectators does and always will come first.

“We will be back and better than ever next year.”

The Atherton Roosters assure fans that even though 2020 will see no local football, 2021 will be the season to look out for.

“All of the clubs are obviously a little bit hurt with the decision but in the end it was common sense,” said Rooster A Grade Coach Graham Clark Snr. “We can now put in plans in place for a big time return

next year.

“There is a lot of uncertainly in the world at the moment and we can look forward to hopefully playing next year.”

A spokesperson from the Mareeba Gladiators said they are disappointed that the 2020 season had to come to an end before it even started.

“Even though we were cleared to play, a large majority of the clubs in the competition rely on their spectators to keep their doors open,” they said.

“We are extremely disappointed but are looking forward to the 2021 season that will be bigger and better."

This news is a shockwave that is felt across the Tablelands as many locals were looking forward to getting out of the house and supporting their local rugby league team.

Supporters will now have to look forward to the 2021.

Cycling comp to help local businesses LOCAL businesses are encouraged to sponsor a new two day, three stage cycling tour that has been announced for the Mareeba area.

Spearheaded by the Cairns Cycling Club, the new ‘MiHaven Mareeba Tour’ will give some local businesses a chance to plaster their names on several of the events and even on the race numbers of the cyclists.

The tour will be held over three stages commencing on Saturday, August 1 and finishing on Sunday, August 2.

Starting and finishing at the Mareeba Tennis Club, the cyclists will bike along Chewko Road and Narcotic Creek Road, a challenging 40-70km race.

Lunch and presentations will be held at the Mareeba Tennis Club after the race, and local businesses are encouraged to apply for sponsorship positions as follows.

A local coffee provider to provide energy for the participants, a sponsor for the cyclist’s race numbers, sponsors for each stage of the tour, and finally local accommodation for the cyclists.

Richie Bates, Cairns Cyclist Club President decided to host the event on the Tablelands because of the atmosphere created by the community and the excellent roads to race on “The Mareeba community has always been very support-

Mareeba will see yet another Cairns Cycling Event grace its roads after the Cairns Cycling Club announced a new two day race to be set in Mareeba. Pictured above are cyclists from the Cairns Cycling Club at the 2019 Club Championship that was held in Mareeba.

ive and the Tablelands is a great place to be,” he said.

“There is some good terrain so we can run different types of races and the roads are great for racing.

“One of the great things about the race is that we can use it to help promote the region and local businesses.”

This is not the Cairns Cycling Club's first visit to the Tablelands. They hosted the 2019 Club Championship in Mareeba

and over the years have held other events across the Southern Tablelands.

“We are keen to keep things going not only for local sport but for local businesses as well,” Mr Bates said.

With sport slowly but surely returning to the roads and parks around the region the local community can finally start to breathe easy once again.

For more information, visit www.cairnscyclingclub.com.au

SUPPORTING LOCAL BUSINESS

A new place to find all of our great Local Businesses

Calling all Businesses

As part of our COVID response we have fast tracked a new Online Directory to support our great Local Businesses.

The Express newspaper is locally operated and proudly independent. We provide comprehensive coverage of news and events across our region, and are passionate advocates for the local story of each town in our region, and cover the issues affecting us all. In addition we also play an important role in promoting local businesses and organisations. The Express Directory will further help connect our local residents with our great local businesses.

Visit our new website and join us in Supporting Local Business.

We’d love to invite every local business in the Mareeba Shire to be part of The Express Directory. To find out how we can help support your business online contact our team on 07 4092 3464.

www.theexpressdirectory.com.au www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

The Express, Wednesday, June 10, 2020 PAGE 27

2019 FORD ESCAPE SUV WAGON

1.5 litre eco-boost automatic, reverse camera, sat nav, 4200 kilometres + lots more, balance of factory warranty until January 2025.

$27,490

2009 HOLDEN BARINA AUTO SEDAN

2012 TOYOTA COROLLA ASCENT SPORT AUTO SEDAN

2016 HONDA JAZZ VTi AUTO HATCH

2013 MAZDA CX-5 MAXX SPORT AWD DIESEL AUTO WAGON

$4,950 DRIVE AWAY

2018 FORD FOCUS TREND HATCH

$13,950 DRIVE AWAY

1.5 litre Eco-boost engine, 8 speed auto, alloys, reverse camera, sat-nav, 4480 kilometres + more!

Balance of 5 year warranty until September 2024.

$24,490

$14,950 DRIVE AWAY

2017 HONDA CIVIC VTi AUTO SEDAN

$17,950 DRIVE AWAY

$15,950 DRIVE AWAY

2016 MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER LS AUTO WAGON

$19,950 DRIVE AWAY

WARRANTY AVAILABLE ON ALL USED VEHICLES - ENQUIRE TODAY! ALL PRICES INCLUSIVE OF GOVERNMENT STATUTORY CHARGES.

COMPETITIVE FINANCE AND INSURANCE AVAILABLE For more info, see treasury.gov.au. This communication does not constitute legal, taxation or financial advice.

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

Go Further

313-315 Byrnes Street, Mareeba • 4092 5100 www.mareebamitsubishi.com.au • www.mareebamazda.com.au After Hours: David Mete 0408 793 050 Peter Acha 0417 006 698 or Adrian Madrid 0413 745 247

subaru.com.au

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24months/25,000kms scheduled servicing valued at $938RRP4

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Enjoy a Subaru EOFY bonus. Buy any new or demonstrator XV, Outback or Forester model boasting Subaru’s legendary Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive - and get 2 years free scheduled servicing2 plus $500 Subaru Genuine Accessories3 including carpet mat set, cargo tray and cargo step panel. But only until 30 June, so hurry because every moment counts.

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1. Available at participating Subaru Retailers on XV, Outback and Forester models sold between 1/6/20 – 30/6/20 and delivered by 30/6/20. Offer excludes fleet, government and rental buyers. 2. 2 years free scheduled servicing a) is made by the selling Retailer and (b) must be redeemed from the selling Retailer within prescribed time and/or mileage (whichever occurs first) service intervals as set out in the Warranty and Service Handbook. 3. Subaru Genuine Accessories comes fitted as Subaru Essentials Pack and cannot be redeemed for other accessories. 4. Retail value of the Service Plans based on Subaru’s Capped Price Servicing cost for 2020 models.

PAGE 28 The Express, Wednesday, June 10, 2020

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au