The Express Newspaper 4th September 2023

Get ready to rock the weekend away!

Celebrating a century of Don

A MAREEBA man has celebrated a major milestone, turning 100 years old last month surrounded by his loving family and friends.

Donald Herbert Emerson was born on 3 September 1923, on Merragallen Road outside Malanda on his aunty Elizabeth Soley’s farm to Beatrice Curry and James Emerson.

He was one of 13 siblings, being the seventh child among 10 boys and 3 girls.

Growing up in a rural setting, Don attended school at Jaggan and Tarzali, where the use of slate, chalk, and ink in exercise books was the norm.

The daily trek to school through the untouched Tablelands was a stark contrast to the modern conveniences he said he knows today.

Recalling his mischievous school days, Don remembers wagging school with his brothers, a venture that didn't go unnoticed by his father.

The consequence, a stern lesson reinforced by writing

"I must not play miss truant" a thousand times, etched in his memory.

At the young age of 14, on his birthday, Don left school to help support his family.

His first job was at Battles Butchery in Malanda, delivering meat parcels around town on a push-bike and earning only a pound for 44 hours of work each week, including a half day on Saturday.

Don's life took various turns, from working in the post office delivering telegrams to laborious jobs in quarries and farms.

He weathered challenges, including his involvement in a business partnership that ended in voluntary bankruptcy, but emerged resilient and persevering.

A significant highlight of Don's life was meeting the love of his life, Violet, and embarking on a journey together, which led them to Croydon, where they purchased a farm and raised cattle.

Looking back, he recalled

his days with Violet in Croydon as “a time of fulfilment and happiness”.

Throughout his remarkable life, Don emphasised the importance of hard work, regular exercise, and a diet rich in fresh, unprocessed foods.

He firmly believed these

practices have contributed to his enduring good health. As he marks his 100th birthday, he imparts valuable advice to the younger generation.

“Plenty of exercise, don't eat rubbish, and cook your own food,” he said.

DON!

BIRTHDAY

HAPPY

Community spirit shines bright

AFTER spending last weekend tackling an intense grass fire, local firefighters and residents under threat were met with an outpouring of support from the community.

From offering places for people and livestock to stay, to free breakfast and use of machinery, the Mareeba and Tablelands community quickly found ways to support each other during the stressful weekend.

Mareeba firefighter Ben Turner said thanks to the community they were able to extinguish the blaze without the loss of houses, livestock or people.

“When a fast-moving fire is threatening property, farmland and livestock from multiple locations, as it was in the areas of Venture and Ellery Road Mareeba, it can put our capabilities under immense pressure,” he said.

“It was very satisfying, however, to see property owners and community members working together in a time of need. They worked tirelessly through day and night in hot, smoky conditions.

“We witnessed farm hands putting out fires on tractors, dozer operators pushing in fire breaks along neighbouring properties, and members of the community providing shelter

for livestock.

“We had local businesses assisting us to help feed and support a workforce of up to 50 personnel and volunteers with very little notice and Mareeba

Drive-in providing us with a venue that was set up as an incident control centre.

“These efforts did not go unnoticed, and we'd like to thank everyone involved.”

Big boost to region as festival fun hits town

Get ready to rock with some of Australia's best musicians and internationally renowned artists for the biggest music festival to hit Mareeba. Savannah in the Round kicks off this Friday with three big days of live music and events – there is something for everyone to enjoy at the Mareeba Rodeo Arena.

BY ELLIE FINK

MAREEBA is buzzing with excitement as locals and tourists from across the region and the country gear up for the fourth and largest Savannah in the Round music festival this weekend.

Dubbed one of the best music festivals in the southern hemisphere by organiser James Dein, Savannah singlehandedly injected more than $5 million into the local economy last year.

With ticket sales already up by 20% from last year, Mr Dein said this year was set to be the best they have had yet.

“The number of tickets sold could increase to 30% depending on last-minute ticket sales, especially for Saturday night with Jimmy Barnes headlining,” he said.

“As each year rolls by we’ve observed, worked with, and learned, from the audience, and I think Savannah will always be a pretty broad musical offering that will encompass not just country music.

“We will include pop, rock and blues and folk and a variety of music – it is like three or four festivals in one.

“If you have ever been to Bluesfest, you’ll see a bit of that, or maybe CMC Rocks and the Gympie Music Muster, you have some Red Hot Summer in there as well.”

Hoping to reach a younger demographic this year, Mr Dein and his team have worked together to select a line-up that will appeal to all ages.

The event is also set to bring in some of the best cowboys and cowgirls from across the region, with the Great Northern Bullriding Series kicking off at the

Big Top Music Hall. Adding the extra “country vibe”, the backdrop of the bull ride and country music on Friday and Saturday evenings is set to attract a significantly larger audience to Kerribee Park.

With a line-up set to bring people to Mareeba from across the country, Ma-

reeba Chamber of Commerce president Joe Moro says he is expecting a significant influx in business over the next week.

“There is no doubt that this festival will inject a lot of dollars into the local economy and not just Mareeba but also the Tablelands,” he said.

“We think it is a positive thing for our community; it brings people in, and they spend their money here, whether that be getting a tyre changed or getting fuel or groceries.

“I think it is absolutely fabulous – it injects a lot of money and creates a lot of jobs, both permanent and temporary.”

Excited to welcome hundreds of thousands of festival-goers to Mareeba, Mayor Angela Toppin believes Savannah is the biggest event next to the Rotary Field Days and Mareeba Rodeo for the shire.

Anticipating more than 12,000 attendees, she welcomes everyone for a weekend of good energy, excitement and music.

"The Savannah in the Round Festival is an extremely popular event and music fans come from far and wide to listen to the wonderful acts on offer,” she said.

“The Mareeba Shire reaps the benefits of the festival long after it concludes, and it is wonderful to see how the event continues to grow.

“I have heard from visitors who experience this part of the country for the first time when joining the festival, and then you will see them coming back again and again. It truly is such a fantastic way to showcase the natural attractions, lovely weather and climate that we are known for.”

Tickets for Savannah will be available at the gate, but Mr Dein encourages those wanting to go to purchase them online.

Tickets @ www.savannahintheround. com.au

ALL THE BIG NAMES ARE COMING TO SAVANNAH!

International stars will join Aussie legends like Jimmy Barnes, Kasey Chambers, Daryl Braithwaite, Kate Ceberano, Don Walker, Beccy Cole, Adam Harvey, Brad Cox, James Johnston, Casey Barnes, Fanny Lumsden and so much more.

BIG NAMES ON STAGE

Jimmy Barnes – 10pm Saturday. Daryl Braithwaite –8.30pm Saturday, The Black Sorrows –6.55pm Saturday. Brad Cox – 10.15pm Friday. James Johnston –9pm Friday. Kasey Chambers –7.15pm Friday. Casey Barnes – 6pm Friday. Alexandra Kay –4.45pm Friday. Kate Cebrano – 3pm Friday.

BULL RIDE

The Great Northern Bullriding Series bucks off at 4pm Friday and Saturday.

RSL seeks new home

MALANDA RSL could have a new home, thanks to a move by Tablelands Regional Council to relinquish its trusteeship over the town’s School of Arts building.

Council made it known last year it was seeking to dispose of 17 community facilities considered to be aged and surplus to its needs, including the arts building in Elizabeth Street, Malanda.

In July, Cr Dave Bilney raised the possibility of the council providing the Malanda RSL sub-branch with a licence to occupy the School of Arts building. Advice from officers have since revealed that council was unable to take this course of action and that, instead, it must relinquish its trusteeship over the land and building back to the State.

That would allow the sub-branch to apply to the State to occupy the building.

A council report advised that community consultation had revealed that the Malanda School of the Arts building was considered to be surplus to community needs.

Council’s decision to relinquish its trusteeship over the building will mean the Billiards Club, which is currently using the facility, will need to find an alternative location.

“The building is primarily of concrete block construction and is of sound condition, however the sep-

arate amenities do require some maintenance. The switchboards are of poor condition and are due for replacement,” the council report stated.

Cr Bilney said he understood the process that had to be followed but noted that council had no control over whether the State would issue the sub-branch with tenure over the building.

“My hope that we can advance this as quickly as possible so the ultimate outcome is that we get that group into that building,” he said.

A letter from sub-branch interim secretary Neil Waite revealed the sub-branch was growing in numbers, with the member base increasing by 64%, from 59 to 97, and there was a “feeling of positivity” about the group’s future.

The organisation’s bank balance had also been boosted by 22% and it had no debts.

“One of the branch’s most pressing issues is that we do not have a home of our own,” he wrote.

He said a big issue was that members wanting to speak with the newly appointed wellbeing officer had no privacy and they wanted to improve the display of memorabilia.

Council voted unanimously to relinquish their trusteeship over the School of Arts building so the subbranch can then apply to occupy it.

Support mental health one meal at a time

FOLLOWING the success of last year’s inaugural event, Beyond Blue is encouraging people to gather around the Big Blue Table again in 2023.

Big Blue Table fundraising events will take place throughout October – Mental Health Month – to fight the stigma surrounding mental health, one meal at a time.

Everyone in Australia is encouraged to share a meal and start a conversation about mental health to support those impacted by anxiety, depression and suicide.

Last year’s event raised more than $570,000 and it is hoped that this figure will be eclipsed in 2023.

Organising a lunch with co-workers, a group picnic in the park or inviting friends for dinner and creating a safe space where people can express how they truly feel, can be life changing.

All money raised through the Big Blue Table campaign goes to the Beyond Blue

Support Service, providing free 24/7 counselling, advice and referrals for those in need via phone, web chat and email. More than 600 people use the service every day.

Beyond Blue Lead Clinical Adviser, Dr Grant Blashki, said the simple act of hosting a meal can make talking about mental health with family, friends and colleagues less uncomfortable.

“Nearly half of us will experience a mental health condition in our lifetime and no one should feel they need to suffer in silence,” Dr Blashki said.

“Stigma about mental health conditions often prevents people from seeking support, and the Big Blue Table aims to reduce stigma by encouraging people to talk openly about how they are feeling in a comfortable environment."

“Beyond Blue is always available if you’re seeking support for your own mental health or supporting someone going

Mareeba Community Grants Program

through a tough time," Dr Blashki said.

People who register early will receive a free host kit, which includes a guide, table decorations and conversation starters designed to get the discussion going.

Hosts are also provided with tips and tricks, including budget friendly hacks to create a tasty, cost effective and stress-free event.

“We know starting a discussion about mental health can feel awkward, so we’ve included ice breakers as well as more serious questions to help guide the conversations,” Dr Blashki added.

Big Blue Table events can take place for any meal, including brunch or afternoon tea, and in any setting such as at home, the workplace or local sporting club.

To find out more about the initiative and register to host your Big Blue Table event, visit bigbluetable.com.au

BEYOND BLUE: Big Blue Table events raise money for free counselling, advice and referrals provided by the Beyond Blue Support Service.

Mareeba’s aged care home makes massive turnaround

The promised immediate action after a failed quality audit and low star rating last year has resulted in a massive turnaround for the BlueCare Mareeba Aged Care Facility in the standards of care as well as a four star Government rating for staffing...

BY GAIL SEDORKIN

THOUGH she gives full credit to her Mareeba staff for this reversal, it also coincides with the 12 months Diane Lignier has been on board as the Residential Services Manager.

Diane celebrates her work anniversary at BlueCare Mareeba this Friday and said she wouldn’t have been able to turn things around without the commitment of the staff.

“I’m very happy for Mareeba to do as well as they did, and happy for this home and all the improvements we have made for residents.

“We have an awesome team here. I wouldn’t have been able to do that without them,” Diane said.

“Mareeba deserves a quality first-class facility. We have had our ups and downs over the years, but it’s important that there is somewhere close by for loved ones – a quality choice at their doorstep.”

Just months after Diane started at Mareeba, the Federal Government introduced a new star rating system in response to the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, with BlueCare Mareeba Aged Care Facility scoring just two stars, indicating “improvement needed”.

This star rating followed on the heels of the damning July 2022 report where the Facility failed all eight Aged Care Standards required by the Federal Government’s Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission (ACQSC).

“I could see the challenges ahead but I was really up for those challenges," Diane said.

In the August assessment this year, BlueCare Mareeba doubled their star rating for Staffing with a score of four stars (a ‘good’ quality of care), while increasing from two stars to three stars across Quality Measures, Compliance and Residents’ Experience.

The Staffing rating looks at the amount of care being provided in an aged care home, based on the total minutes of nursing and personal care given to each resident each day, and the care from

a registered nurse to each resident each day.

The July 2022 Aged Care Commission’s Performance Report had described Mareeba’s staffing levels and associated issues as “not up to scratch, meaning residents do not get the level of care they require”.

In a statement following the July 2022 Report, BlueCare said it was taking the matter seriously.

“We regret these findings and sincerely apologise to residents and their families that their home did not meet the quality standards. We aim to provide the care and environment our residents and their families rightly expect and deserve. BlueCare recognises the ongoing challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic and sector-wide workforce shortages. Informed by the ACQSC’s audit findings and our own internal review, we have acted swiftly and comprehensively to improve the standard of care at Mareeba.”

A major part of this "swift and comprehensive action" was to bring Diane on board, with her extensive experience as a psychiatric nurse, educator and most recently Nurse Unit Manager at Townsville University Hospital.

“BlueCare saw the value of my experience. I was so excited to take on this new role,” Diane said.

“Our staffing is now stable from movements and we have filled all the roles.”

BlueCare Mareeba Aged Care Facility currently has 68 staff members and 51 residents, with six rooms currently under maintenance including in the Memory Support Unit.

Since starting on 6 October 2022, Diane has attended all staff and resident meetings, where, she said, “staff, residents and family are encouraged to feedback back to us all the time”.

She has also implemented a new Diet and Nutrition System including extensive on-site training for the online ordering system, a new medication system and the addition of a solar system for the facility.

“Since I started one year ago I have been listening to our staff and residents about improve-

ments and listening to people’s stories,” Diane said.

“Approachable management, a lot of education and face-to-face meetings are all key to ensuring I get this feedback”.

Diane is transparent about the failed 2022 audit, changes made since then, and future plans.

“I take tours personally for family and loved ones and I always start a discussion about what happened last year.

“I bring it up as people are hesitant to ask about it, and they usually say ‘we were wondering about that’.

“I want to reassure them and let them know what we have done since then. I want family to know that it is a place where loved ones are happy and well cared for”.

In June this year auditors interviewed 35 of the 68 staff members and 30 of the 51 residents for the 2023 ACQSC Report.

With close to a clean slate, BlueCare Mareeba Aged Care Facility is now compliant across Quality Standards 1-7, with non-compliance for Standard 8 Organisational Governance in two of the five requirements.

The two requirements from the Commission’s July 2023 Performance Report were that “the organisation must have effective organisation wide governance systems ... and effective risk management systems and practices”.

Positive findings from the Commission regarding Standard 8 include noting “evidence of where consumer feedback has been used to improve services, for example, via changes to the service’s menu”.

Due to the favourable report and evidence of continuing improvements, BlueCare Mareeba Aged Care Facility will not be audited again until 2026.

“We haven’t finished the work yet. We plan to go above and beyond with quality improvements,” Diane said.

HAPPY HOME: Residents Lina Parisotto, Vicenta Madrid, Concetta Bambino, Residential Services Manager, Diane Lignier, Hospitality Team Leader, Maz Mason, with Cook Jay Oli and Resident, Jill Roos cooking up some pancakes, and Quality Compliance Support Officer, Lisa Crosland.

HEALTHY CHOICES: Cooks Jay Oli and Fiona Hamilton with Residential Services Manager, Diane Lignier with some of the menu choices now available.

New Yeti to keep local firies cool

THOSE fighting fires alongside the Tinaroo Rural Fire Brigade will now have easy access to hydration thanks to a donation from Atherton Gas and Camping.

Generously donated by Roger and Annette Wadley of Atherton Gas and Camping, this gesture coincides with the launch of the Yeti "Rescue Red" series, honouring those who risk their lives for others.

Amidst the onset of fire season, the brigade has already been actively battling wildfires and aiding deployments to Townsville.

Les Green and Darryl Dilger accepted the donation from Atherton Gas and Camping,

Generosity helps keep outriggers afloat

STORING equipment has now been made easier for the local Outriggers Club, thanks to a kind donation of stands from Will Verri.

When reaching out to Mr Verri from Northern

Extra cuddles for region’s children

and said their support was invaluable, and the cooler will serve to provide much-needed hydration for the hardworking volunteers.

“When we heard the latest limited release YETI colour was inspired by those that risk their lives to protect ours, we immediately thought of the Tinaroo Rural Fire Brigade,” Mr Wadley said.

“We are very proud to support these local volunteers in our community. The hard cooler is incredibly tough and keeps ice for many days.

“They can have some ice cold refreshments after a hard day fighting fires.”

GIVING children an extra sense of security when in the care of emergency services, the Mareeba Lions Club have donated several Care Bears to local firefighters, paramedics and policemen to help the region's most vulnerable.

The soft cuddly bears are given by first responders to children experiencing trauma.

Mareeba Lion Tom Braes made the donation to Queensland Ambulance Service, Queensland Fire and Rescue, and Queensland Police, repre-

Building and Constructions, the Dam Outriggers Club were met with great generosity, with the company donating the racks to keep their equipment in easy reach.

sented by Paramedic Neville Condon, Fire Fighter Jared Hohns and Acting Inspector Kyell Palmer.

The Mareeba Hospital and

Medical Centre also received some of the cuddly bears.

Mareeba

Paramedic Neville Condon, Fire Fighter Jared Hohns and Acting Inspector Kyell Palmer receiving Care Bears from Mareeba Lion Tom Braes.

Will Verri from Northern Building Constructions with the racks he donated to Greg Maiden and Nancy Costin from the Dam Outriggers Club.

Roger and Annette Wadley from Atherton Gas and Camping donated a brand-new Yeti cooler to Darryl Dilger and Les Green from Tinaroo Rural Fire Brigade ahead of fire season.

Fresh start for future generation

HELPING grade 12 students as they head off to university, Fresh Street IGA and Atherton State High School have celebrated a significant milestone, helping fund university students for six years.

The scholarship offers $10,000 over three years to a student from Atherton State High School going to university.

So far, this scholarship has helped students such as Eliza Tolley, who is studying dentistry at James Cook Uni-

versity, Samarah Casey, who is studying midwifery at Griffith University and David Kilpatrick who is studying Agriculture and Business at the University of Queensland.

The Atherton State High School

P&C thanked the local IGA for their ongoing support for students as they take the next step into adulthood.

Grade 12 Atherton High students who are heading to university next year are encouraged to apply.

Partnership to deliver pathway to self employment program

RAVENSHOE Gulf-Country Community Enterprise Ltd (RGCCEL) has partnered with My Pathway to create positive social and economic impacts in communities.

The partnership aims to increase the number of sustainable businesses within the RavenshoeGulf Country region through support and mentorship of the Workforce Australia Self Employment Assistance Program and brand-new incentives to address early business costs.

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

“We are very grateful to have entered this partnership to help strengthen our program in

the region around Ravenshoe.

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

“By lessening the financial burden on start-up businesses, or those existing businesses benefiting from our support, a significant hurdle will be reduced, if not removed entirely. This can only help to grow the number and success of businesses in the region,” he said.

RGCCEL, who owns the franchise for the Community Bank Ravenshoe Gulf Country Bendigo Bank located in Grigg Street, Ravenshoe will provide eligible participants a business bank account with $1200 to be used towards business

costs such as marketing, business name registration, logo design, business photography, EFTPOS facilities, solicitor fees and utilities setup. This is in addition to existing support funding available within the program and represents a significant bonus to those taking up the offer.

RGCCEL Chair Lara Wilde said supporting new businesses was important to their organisation and that the benefits would create a lasting impact in the region.

“As a Ravenshoe based bank franchisee, we want to see the region grow and flourish. One of the best ways we could think to do this was to support up-and-coming businesses in the region, so we have partnered with an organisation already supporting these businesses to enhance their offering.

“By offering this funding we hope to create a thriving business in the local Ravenshoe Gulf Country community and provide locals with increased options for who they spend their money with, benefiting the entire community,” she said.

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

The program includes workshops, coaching, training, business health checks, referrals to professional services, connections with industry leaders, and guidance to create a solid business plan.

For more information and to apply, visit https://mypathway.com.au/self-employment/ or call the My Pathway team on 1800 319 588.

BETTER THAN HALF PRICE!

Scholarship 2020 recipient Eliza Tolley, Fresh Street Market manager Matt Bowles and Atherton State High School P&C Treasurer Nicky Keevers are ready for applicants for this year’s Fresh Street IGA scholarship.

Wildlife signs to raise awareness

SIGNS will be installed and warnings marked on Curtain Fig Tree Road in a bid to reduce the risk to wildlife in the area.

Tablelands Regional Council was asked to take the action by the Natural Asset Management Advisory Committee at its August meeting.

The speed limit on Curtain Fig Tree Road has been reduced from 80km/h to 70km/h for the section of road that crosses the Curtain Fig National Park, but committee members believed that the reduction, while a positive step, did not fully address the risk of accidents for wildlife and motorists alike.

Some of the most important species to protect are locally endemic species such as Lumholtz’s Tree-kangaroo, Green Ringtail Possum and the Striped Possum.

Curtain Fig Tree National Park is also home to several endangered and vulnerable bat species, critically endangered frog species, threatened skinks and a number of vulnerable and endangered birds.

“In order to further reduce the risk to public and wildlife, it is recommended that council consider the installation of specific signage,” a report to council stated.

The estimated cost of purchase and installation is $8,000 for a set of four wildlife advisory signs –two free standing and two road markings – with the estimated life of the signage being five years.

Deputy Mayor Kevin Cardew was a lone voice in objecting to the full initiative, saying he would support free standing signs but would not support the road markings.

“I don’t have a real problem with the signs on a post – sign writing on the road would cost a considerable amount of money – we start doing this thing, where are we going to stop?” he said.

Cr Dave Bilney supported the move, saying a broader communication campaign was needed.

“What has happened over the past 18 months to two years is there was a request to reduce the speed limit ... it was reduced but members are concerned

it didn’t go far enough – they were advocating for 60km/h,” he said.

“This is another way of communicating to people going through that area that there are endemic species through there – it is a tourist hot spot.

“It’s more of an awareness campaign, and I would like to see more of this in areas throughout the Tablelands not unlike they have in Mission Beach for the cassowaries – I think it’s a good initiative and the big picture is we need to protect what we’ve got.”

Most of the cost of installing the signs on posts

and on the roadway was the “Stop and Go” costs for traffic management.

The Natural Asset Management Advisory Committee also wants councillors to attend its meetings.

“Discussions at meetings indicated a strong interest in improving the communication with councillors in order to advance matters relating to our unique environment,” a report to council stated.

“While a number of specific items have been identified in the past, over the last 10 months, many of these matters have been resolved, with the current interest being of a broader nature.”

Valentine showcases wonders of Australia

A LOCAL man with a passion for the natural world has released the second edition of his book World Heritage Sites of Australia at Australia’s first International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) conference in

Sydney.

Peter Valentine travelled to New South Wales last month to release the second edition of his book, which showcases world heritage sites across Australia, accompanied by photography

and illustrations from several conservationists.

With several copies sold at the event to environmentalists from across the world, Mr Valentine hopes they will help showcase the importance and beauty of Australia’s heritage sites.

Exploring ancient rainforests that unveil the ancient ties of the Gondwana supercontinent and examining rock art that narrates a 60,000-year-old human settlement history, Mr Valentine unravels the unique qualities of each World Heritage site.

The book also showcases his unwavering dedication and enthusiasm for preserving and honouring these sites.

The testament to his commitment shines through engaging dialogues with the late Kakadu Elder Bill Neidjie, thrilling diving escapades in the Great Barrier Reef, and the establishment of secure guidelines for swimming alongside whale sharks at the Ningaloo Coast.

Mr Valentine said the need to publish this book was more dire than ever, with events such as climate change threatening heritage sites across the world.

“It will be a good opportunity to update the condition of the world heritage sites and the concerns of their long-term survival,” he said.

“In addition to that, with this

new edition, I had the opportunity to also review the illustrations that I think did a better job portraying the sites.

“I think people were pleased to hear about the second edition

being published.”

The second edition of World Heritage Sites of Australia is available to purchase at local bookstores or from www.nla. gov.au

Peter Valentine travelled to Sydney for the ICOMOS conference to release the second edition of World Heritage Sites of Australia.

Mt Garnet residents no longer ‘abandoned’

BY GAIL SEDORKIN

A ROUND of applause from Mt Garnet residents erupted after Tableland Regional Council agreed to further investigate options for Mount Garnet Transfer Station at last week’s ordinary meeting.

The delegation of residents attended the 28 September ordinary meeting to hear council’s response to Cr Peter Hodge’s motion to “investigate options and report back to 23 November Ordinary Council Meeting on providing infrastructure that is safe for the public and staff at the Mount Garnet Waste Transfer Station”.

Cr Annette Haydon she was happy to support this motion which essentially reversed “what we’ve done”.

“As far as I’m concerned – we’ve abandoned Mt Garnet," she said.

Cr Haydon was referring to the original June decision to close the transfer

station which was backed by four other councillors, with Crs Annette Haydon, Dave Bilney, and David Clifton against the move, citing fears of a rise in illegal dumping as one of the factors it should remain open.

Cr Haydon was also unhappy there had been no public consultation and had told the June meeting the closure would “do little for morale in the community”.

Mt Garnet’s Waste Transfer Station was permanently closed in June after Tablelands Regional Council determined that repairing infrastructure at the facility was not worth it given the small number of people using it.

The council had the option of doing repairs to the wall at a cost of $107,000 and re-open the facility, or to spend $75,000 to demolish the failed wall, repatriate the area and permanently close the station.

At last week’s meeting Cr Hodge

spoke in support of the motion and the people of Mt Garnet, noting that he had to “look after everyone in the TRC, just like every other councillor”.

“Of course, I am in Atherton … and everything is at my fingertips. … But the people up there at Mt Garnet and the other side of Mt Garnet, they don’t have those facilities,” Cr Hodge said.

“We made an easy decision to close the Mt Garnet Transfer, that was an easy decision … and I was actually one of them who put my hand up (to close the station).

“I’ve had people come to us, they’ve put presentations to us, we’ve received the petition and we’ve had numerous approaches and complaints from local residents that they want it back.”

Cr Hodge noted that the original wall was a faulty build and unsafe.

A report at the time revealed structural damage in a retaining wall was at risk of “catastrophic failure” if any

Seniors welcome to move and groove at free aqua classes

SENIOR residents have been invited to get moving and grooving at free Move It Aqua classes starting at a pool near you next week.

Hosted at the Dimbulah, Mareeba and Kuranda swimming pools, Mareeba Shire Council invites senior residents to join free fitness classes as part of the Seniors Month’ celebrations organised by the council throughout October.

The free fitness classes start on Monday 9 October and run until April 2024.

Enjoy a variety of fun exercises promoting strength, flexibility, and cardio during the Variety Sessions and promote movement in your joints, enhance your core and improve your balance at the Easy Sessions.

Mareeba Shire Mayor Angela Toppin encourages the community to participate.

“Council’s Move It Aqua Classes are a fantastic way to get your body moving in a fun and energetic environment while socialising with peers,” she said.

Sessions are limited to groups of 15 per class and bookings are recommended but not required.

Bookings can be made by email to moveitaqua@mcsf.com.au or call 4092 1691.

Please bring your swimmers, a towel and water bottle. All other equipment will be supplied.

The activity is supported by North Queensland Primary Health Network (PHN). MOVE IT: Get

further loading from vehicular movements were allowed in close proximity to the wall.

However, as Cr Hodge pointed out, “that is not the residents of Mt Garnet’s fault … that is the problem”.

“We can’t sit here in my view and say, ‘sorry people of Mt Garnet, we’re closing it because we didn’t do our job’. I think it’s time we stood up and be counted and said, yes, ‘let’s look at what happened in the past and let’s fix the problem’.”

Cr Hodge said council should “do it properly” and ask our officers to come back with a report.

He said maybe the work could be on a smaller basis, “it doesn’t have to be so grand”, as long as residents have the facilities to use.

“I’m happy to move the motion and I’d hope to see it unanimous”.

Far from unanimous, Mayor Rod Marti, Deputy Mayor Kevin Cardew

and Cr Bernie Wilce all spoke out against further action which could lead to reopening the transfer station.

Deputy Mayor Cr Cardew said there had been a service level review at TRC, “and it says we’ve got to cut down on our facilities right across the board, not just Mt Garnet, everywhere … so we’ve got to make some hard decisions”. He added that he would rather see the money go towards a pool which would service more of the Mt Garnet community.

Cr Bernie Wilce also mentioned the review “that’s telling us we have to cut back on our expenditure and assets”.

“I fully disagree with reopening the Mt Garnet Waste Transfer Station”.

Mayor Marti said he could not support Cr Hodge’s motion, and that he was with Crs Cardew and Wilce “on this one” and that council had made the decision to close on the best information.

Station program working wonders

BY CHELSEA ASHMEADE

AS you wind your way off the Peninsula Developmental Road towards Wolverton Station homestead there’s a surprise awaiting.

Upon the final hill you’ll be greeted by a magical hideaway to the west and some dusty horse and cattle yards, walking trails and a secluded waterhole to the right.

It’s where Emma Jackson, with the support of her family, has created a place for youth and adults to visit to support their wellbeing journey.

With a degree in psychology and teaching, Ms Jackson brought her background and experience together through further studies as an Equine Assisted Learning practitioner, beginning in communities about five years ago, noticing there was an increase in emotional and social issues among the youth (and adults).

Integrating her thirty years of wisdom across health, education and greater community work and two decades in agriculture, she designed a unique program to help the youth, which has morphed into a separate adults program, too.

It was, at first, an experiment with small groups of teenagers and small families, but Ms Jackson noticed the strong and beneficial impact being away from everyday normal routine and community life had on their self-perception, attitude and levels of contentedness.

“I noticed when they came out here, they thrived,” Ms Jackson said.

“They were happy.”

She mainly worked with youth from Western Cape College and the PCYC in Napranum, among many.

The youngsters work with horses and cattle, learn about cattle station operations and animal handling and with the horses, Ms Jackson facilitates an Equine Horse Wisdom program, where children are fully present with the horses and engage in activities through challenges and scenarios.

“The core of a lot of the work we do is the

horse. We specifically use the horse for adults,” Ms Jackson said.

“We work with the adults on what they do and bring to relationships and communication. With the children, it’s similar but they get to witness how amazingly kind and special they are. Around the horses they ooze kindness, compassion, sincerity and patience.”

Helping people to see their strengths, habits and how their thoughts impact their behaviours building their self-esteem and clarifying their self-perception means they begin to believe in themselves in a way they have never believed before. That is what it’s all about for Ms Jackson.

About nine years ago, Ms Jackson lost her nephew to suicide.

“I have always wanted to help people see and understand how amazing they are but I recognised the critical mental health component when I lost my own nephew in 2014.”

Ms Jackson believed there was six suicides alone in Coen last year. The annual overall statistics drives her to continue to offer and develop her program to the youth and adults as a strategy or prevention.

“We talk about the stresses of life before it gets too late…school doesn’t teach you a ‘toolkit’ to equip you for life.”

The program has helped a number of youth to believe in themselves, see that life has considerably more to offer and that it’s ok to break down barriers and be the person they want to be.

“I get absolute fulfilment seeing the youngsters having the space and safety to be fully themselves. They have to roll with their instinct and

feelings to be safe. They have to listen and trust themselves, learning how to be gentle, kind and compassionate because of the new environment they are in,” Ms Jackson said.

The program has been well received in communities and has created lifelong friendships.

“You are not just here for a program, you are here for a relationship with me. I have got your back.”

And, with no phone signal Ms Jackson said there were no distractions – you had to “just get on with it”.

It doesn’t just end there though, Ms Jackson started the popular Conquer The Corrugations event held for the first time in 2015.

It’s a walk that covers 42 kilometres over two days north of Coen. Ms Jackson said some of the participants who she has worked with have taken part, as well as many from across the country.

“It becomes a really interwoven community.”

“(the walk) It’s tough, really, really tough,” Ms Jackson said.

The walk attracts CEOs and managers who take it upon themselves to make change within

their companies to help the mental health of their employees.

This year’s Conquer the Corrugations walk will be held on this October Long Weekend, 30 September and 1 October – if you’re on the PDR, be sure to say g’day and watch for walkers.

Confessing she doesn’t sit still for long, Ms Jackson said she is constantly driven by the people she helps.

“I am people-driven. I truly care about how others feel. We get so caught up in looking forwards or looking backwards, let’s just stop and see what’s going on right now.”

While it might seem as if life is isolated on a station, Ms Jackson said it was far from that.

“You have got so much around you in town and that changes when remote. It’s fabulous living a way of life that is so connected to the land and animals. We live a good life, we are here to create a better tomorrow and strengthen the change where it needs to be.”

For more information about Conquer the Corrugations, visit the Facebook page or website www.conquerthecorrugations,com.au

Emma Jackson of Wolverton Station has a combined 30 years of wisdom across health, education and greater community work and two decades in agriculture, ideal for designing a the unique program to help the youth, which has morphed into a separate adults program.

“I noticed when they came out here, they thrived”

Travellers connect with environment on extended tours

VISITORS exploring the World Heritage-listed reef and rainforest in Tropical North Queensland can now assist the organisations caring for the future of these ecosystems.

Extended expeditions have been designed to help travellers understand the global importance of these ecosystems and help the organisations, often through volunteer opportunities.

Tourism Tropical North Queensland Chief Executive Officer Mark Olsen said tours involving scientists and wildlife volunteers were growing in popularity with travellers wanting a deeper connection with the environments they were visiting.

“We are finding that extended volunteer opportunities are popular with students who want to experience Tropical North Queensland’s lifestyle while helping at places like Wildlife Habitat in Port Douglas,” he said.

“Hands-on assistance is not

always possible, but many expeditions give valuable support to volunteer-run organisations such as the Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre or the Tolga Bat Hospital simply by paying to bring their guests there.

“There are also one-off opportunities to assist global volunteer organisations including Tangaroa Blue and Parley for the Oceans that organise community events in the region.”

To learn more about the Wet Tropics World Heritage-listed rainforest and wildlife conservation join a four-day Nature, Wildlife and Conservation Safari with FNQ Nature Tours.

Immersive wildlife encounters are guaranteed through access to exclusive areas like Forever Wild’s Tropical Wetlands Shared Earth Reserve which boasts more than 220 recorded species of birds.

A highlight of the tour is connecting with the unsung heroes of nature and conserva-

Winners to be announced at award night

tion in Tropical North Queensland including Rainforest Rescue, Wildlife and Raptor Care Queensland, and the Tolga Bat Hospital.

Twitchers might prefer to do the five-day Birdwatching North Queensland expedition covering a variety of environments in the Wet Tropics which is home to more than 450 avian species.

FNQ Nature Tours also hosts private expeditions in partnership with the Australian Quoll Conservancy checking camera traps and motion detection areas to catalogue sightings of the threatened spotted-tail quoll.

Rainforestation Nature Park at Kuranda has four, six and eight-week International Volunteer Programs allowing visitors to work with wildlife while immersing themselves in the local culture and lifestyle of Tropical North Queensland.

Join experienced wildlife keepers to help with various duties around the park including

TOP businesses from across the Tablelands will be recognised tomorrow (5 October) at the annual Tablelands Business Excellence Awards.

The Tablelands Business Excellence Awards celebrates the region’s outstanding businesses and not-for-profit organisations.

Businesses have been nominated across six categories, and winners will be announced at an

maintaining the displays and preparing food for the wildlife. The Programs are a chance for volunteers to experience the Tropics as a local – not just as a tourist.

Preparing food for native wildlife and collecting leaves for koalas are among the tasks for the Wildlife Volunteers at Wildlife Habitat in Port Douglas.

Participants will join the

keepers on guided tours of the park and engage with visitors while you undertake your duties. The week-long placements start each Tuesday.

“Snorkelling and diving on the Great Barrier Reef is a very special experience that helps the reef as each visitor pays a $7 Environmental Management Charge towards managing the health of the reef,” Mr Olsen said.

awards ceremony at the Atherton International Club.

These categories include Customer Service Excellence, Technology and Innovation Impact, Visual Stand-Out, Employer of Choice, Sustainability Contribution, New and Emerging Business or Service and People’s Choice.

More than 80 businesses and organisations

Contributing to research projects on the Great Barrier Reef can be done in comfort with Coral Expedition Cruises which has partnered with Australian Geographic to offer a Citizen Science series.

The next expedition for 66 guests and researchers departs on 23 October for 14 nights, exploring the outer reefs and unique marine systems of the Great Barrier Reef.

have been nominated for the 2023 awards with any business nominated elegible to win the People’s Choice award.

The winner will receive a $2000 advertising package with The Express.

For more information, visit www.trc.qld.gov. au/our-community/awards/business-excellenceawards

The impacts of mega-fires on wildlife – the case of the Golden-tipped Bat

THE Tree Kangaroo and Mammal Group (TKMG ) are hosting a free public talk next Thursday about the effects of recent mega fires on wildlife.

In the light of an already declared El Nino condition across Australia, and early intense fires along our eastern coast, Australia is likely to see many more severe and dangerous bushfires this summer and the next.

George Madani has been studying wildlife most of his life, and in many environments from the Simpson Desert to the sub-Antarctic and in our rainforests.

He recently surveyed one of our poorly known microbats, the Golden-tipped Bat, to discover how the recent megafires of 2019-2020 might have impacted on this species.

“High intensity fires threaten the local persistence of species like golden-tipped bats that are dependent on rainforest habitat," Mr Madani said.

President of TKMG, Professor Peter Valentine said Golden-tipped Bats are one of our more poorly known bat species, although they occur from New Guinea south along the Queensland coast to New South Wales.

“If you have been watching a large orb-weaver spider on her web and suddenly find her missing, with a hole in the web where she used to be, the likely predator is a Golden-

A free talk on the impacts of fires on wildlife will be held next week. Pictured is a Golden-tipped Bat.

Best jumpers on show at NQ championships

SHOWJUMPERS from across the region recently gathered in Atherton to compete in the North Queensland Showjumping Championships. Riders and horses came from far and wide, with the event hailed a great success, leaving horse enthusiasts inspired.

1st Germaine Rogato on Sky, 2nd Deb Windhaus on George, 3rd Stephanie Forrest on Grac, 4th Natasha Dunsworth on Spicy.

tipped Bat,” he said.

“Such large spiders are an important part of the tiny bat's diet although they also eat beetles and moths.”

The talk will describe many elements of these intriguing bat’s lives as well as the concerns for its survival. In NSW its conservation status is vulnerable, but in Queensland it is not considered threatened despite the

limited knowledge known about the species.

There is clearly scope for more study of this tiny but fascinating mammal.

TKMG invites interested members of the public to participate in the talk at the Malanda Hotel on Thursday 12 October at 7.30 pm.

Entry is free and for more information contact Peter Valentine on 0427 634 136.

Gala tickets on sale

– 40CM 2382.2

1st Lexie English on Banjo, 2nd Hayley Frost on Mediated, 3rd Victoria Bartlett on KP Jackpot, 4th William Bartlett on Smokie.

– 1.10M 238 2.2

1st Hannah Dearlove on Matilda, 2nd Ciara English on Boz Scaggs.

– 120CM 238 2.2

1st Kellie Buckingham on FF Cornetto, 2nd Germaine Rogato on Blue Nickle, 3rd Kate Lyttle on Lenny Larrikin.

– 1M GRAND PRIX

1st Germaine Rogato on Sky, 2nd Alecia Styles on Excited Zelady, 3rd Naomi Hogan on I’m not sure, 4th Sheryl Bentley on Angry Angus.

– FROSTY MANGO 110CM

1st Natasha Dunworth on Spicy, 2nd Hannah Dearlove on Matilda, 3rd Ciara English on Boz Scaggs.

Full results on the North Queensland Showjumping Club Facebook page.

PHOTO: GEORGE MADANI.

Naomi Hogan on I’m Not Sure.

Chello Stoehr on Kentucky Gecko.

Deb Curry on Finch Farm Top Gun.

Kellie Buckingham on Finch Farm Garden Gnome.

Alexia Styles on Excites Zelady.

Deb Windhaus on Murphy’s Creek George.

Community stops to remember our fallen police officers

OFFICERS and community members from across the Tablelands gathered at the Mareeba Abundant Life Church last Friday to remember the 13 local officers who have died while serving the Tablelands Patrol Group.

National Police Remembrance Day is one of the most important days on the police calendar, with this year’s commemorative event holding great significance locally, as the 10-year anniversary of Acting Senior Constable Casey Blain’s passing.

Acting Senior Constable Casey Blain was not only respected by his fellow officers but also by members of the public.

Casey was relieving in Georgetown for a few days over the 2013 Easter break to help support road safety initiatives.

While out conducting patrols of the area, he was involved in a fatal traffic crash when his vehicle struck the bridge at Routh Creek about 15km east of Georgetown on Good Friday, March 29, 2013.

Queensland Constables Matthew Arnold and Rachel McCrow and Constable Anthony Woods from the Western Australian Police Force were also commemorated on the day.

THEY ARE WHY

Tinaroo Water Committee

WATER MEETINGS

– A committee of FNQ Growers and Tableland Canegrowers –WEDNESDAY 11TH OCTOBER

All farmers welcome

10AM DIMBULAH

VENUE: Ontario Mangoes packing shed

TOPIC: Discuss water harvesting in the Walsh area with the Departments

2PM TOLGA

VENUE: Rock Creek Farming

TOPIC: Discuss water allocation being removed from Valuation in the Tolga groundwater area and Groundwater study with the Department

All-Abilities Facts and Snacks

Tuesday 10 October 2023 -11:30am to 12:15pm

a FREE Zoom presentation at your library with Abbie Williams

The theme is 'Awareness, Belonging, Connection'.

It reflects the important factors that help people maintain positive mental health and wellbeing. It is all about connecting with the people in our lives and creating space for conversations about mental health and wellbeing.

The Mareeba Libraries are embracing the theme and are excited to host a Zoom presentation with Abbie Williams, a lived experience mental health speaker and Letters of Hope founder on Tuesday 10 October from 11:30am to 12:15pm.

Abbie will share her own experiences with anxiety and depression, how it led to Letters of Hope being founded, what she learnt from the journey, and the power of kindness and compassion.

Take-home mental health self-care packs will be available and a light lunch will be provided.

For all ages, all welcome! Celebrate with us and seize the day!

Bookings are essential. Register for the event by visiting https://msc.qld.gov.au/community/libraries/ and select “Featured Events Bookings”, or call your local library to book a spot:

Celebrate

Call your local Library to book a spot:

Chillagoe Library: 4094 7077

Dimbulah Library: 4093 5963

Kuranda Library: 4093 9185

Mareeba Library: 4086 4622

Flag party Senior Constable Ian Wright, Senior Constable Gavin Brown and Police Liaison Officer Glen Tomsana.

Constable Aleda Day at the ceremony.

The pipers led the service.

The parents of Constable Casey Blain, Ray and Lynette Blain, light a candle in his honour.

Constable Chloe Malcolm receives the baton Retired Police Officer Paula Byrne.

THERE is always something exciting and new showing at the Majestic Theatre in Malanda, and this weekend is no exception.

The action crime drama, Retribution, starring action man Liam Neeson is new on the big screen this weekend.

The annimated adventure movie, Ruby Gillman, Teenage Kraken, is great for all ages and the adventure action sci-fi Blue Bettle, with loads of action, continues for another great weekend. You can find all the session times and information on the Majestic website at www.majestictheatre.com.au

Hone your skills with acclaimed musicans

ACCLAIMED musician Mal Webb will be performing and holding workshops throughout the Tablelands region with esteemed violist, Kylie Morrigan, from 24-26 October, culminating with performances at the Tablelands Folk Festival on 27-29 October.

Matt Webb, a multi-instrumentalist, vocal adventurer and beatboxer who has performed nationally and internationally for more than two decades, has been utilising and exploring digital looping technology as an integral part of his song writing and performing.

He has learned how to push the limits of digital looping technology, which has become an indispensable component of his song

writing and live performances. His extensive journey in this field has enabled him to stretch the boundaries of technology, conceptualising and crafting music that might have otherwise remained unexplored by many were it not for the art of looping.

In the workshops, he will be covering topics ranging from layered looping techniques, painting a sound picture, using layered looping as a practical tool and producing and manipulating sounds to expand your personal sound library.

He’ll also provide insight into the many different types of loopers, from phone apps to hardware, and will showcase some impressive and challenging tricks with a digital delay unit.

Ms Morrigan, a long-time member of Orchestra Victoria who also tours nationally and internationally, is also a well-known flutist and singer. All ages and abilities are welcome. Bookings are not essential, and there is no cover charge. Their performances, ‘Replete on Repeat’, are part of the Queensland Government’s Regional Arts Development Fund in partnership with Arts Queensland and the Tableland Regional Council to support local arts and culture.

For more information on workshops and performance times and venues across the Tablelands, visit www.tablelandsfolkfestival.org.au

Musician Mal Webb and violist Kylie Morrigan will be holding workshops and perfromances across the Tablelands this month.

EXPRESS

TAKE A BREAK

BIG WORD SEARCH CROSSWORD

selling very cheaply (3,1,4)

18 nasty or unpleasant

20 food that is difficult or impossible to digest.

23 the last syllable of a word

24 immoral or grossly unfair behaviour

25 walk or march for a long distance, typically wearily or with effort

26 free from an obligation or liability imposed on others

Down

2 be or remain hidden so as to wait in ambush for someone or something

3 without instrumental accompaniment (1,8)

4 to be in one’s own house (2,4)

5 lightning that is visible in the form of a zigzag or branching line across the sky (6,9)

SUDOKU

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

Across

1 a long-haired domesticated South American mammal related to the llama, valued for its wool

5 a liquid which has passed through a filter

9 a brief pause for rest

10 a cereal grown in warm countries and regions with poor soils, bearing a large crop of small seeds which are used to make flour

11 dark, dense German bread made from coarsely ground wholemeal rye

13 a draft of a proposed law presented to parliament for discussion

14 a star that is used to guide the course of a ship, especially the Pole Star

17 informal phrase to indicate something is

Puzzle Solutions

6 a drink made from lemon juice and water sweetened with sugar

7 an object surviving from an earlier time, especially one of historical interest

8 amusement parks with a unifying settings or ideas (5,5)

12 a short instrumental refrain or interlude in a vocal work

15 a ruler with a sliding central strip, marked with logarithmic scales and used for making rapid calculations, especially multiplication and division (5,4)

16 a one-piece protective garment worn for heavy manual work

19 be indebted or grateful

21 a person of low intelligence

22 an act or movement of putting one leg in front of the other

WEEKLY HOROSCOPES

mar 21 - apr 19

This week, a romantic connection is possible. You want to have fun this week, though your ideal speed is mosey. Later in the week you’ll feel recharged and ready to go. You’ll be productive and creative solving problems and getting all the things done.

jun 21 - jul 22

This week, you’re making a deeper connection. You might use one resource, like money to free up another resource like time or energy. You could be finding a better way to do things. Deep communication with a loved one will gain great insights.

sep 23 - oct 22

This week, you’re finding your personal style. Early in the week be open to a change of plans, you might find yourself pleasantly surprised. Later in the week you might start looking for something and end up having re organised half the house.

dec 22 - jan 19

This week, you could transform something. If you’re looking for love, take a different path. From Tuesday you’ll be in charge, you have peak performance, mental clarity and the right solutions. It’s a great time to ask for that promotion or apply for the dream job.

apr 20 - may 20

This week, you’re uncovering important information. Early in the week seek contentment at home. Once you’re recharged you might find you’re an information sponge. You’ll be finding many things interesting and could pick up some useful (and some not so) facts.

jul 23 - aug 22

This week, you’re noticed by many. No matter what is piling up on your to do list you can get it done. Problems that seemed insurmountable recently will suddenly unravel and reveal the solution. Give yourself some space and clarity will follow.

oct 23 - nov 21

This week, you gain a special understanding. You’re willing to dig until you find the answer you seek. Education and gaining deep understanding is highlighted. If you’re studying for something specific or just dabbling, you’ll delve in and uncover a lot.

jan 20 - feb 18

This week, you’re gaining important knowledge. You’ll need to be patient with your partner, they or you could be distracted. Later in the week the energy is perfect for getting in some affirmations, biohacking or some therapy. The mind is a malleable thing.

may 21 - jun 20

This week, asking can get you a lot. This week you’ll be very persuasive, you’ll have a raptured audience ready to do as you ask. You’ll be able to capture the attention of the person who has the resources you’re looking for. This is the time to ask and receive.

aug

23 -sep 22

This week, you’re exploring new paths. Early in the week spend some time finding peace in nature. Later in the week you might find your special someone is sending all the signals with their body language even if they aren’t saying anything out aloud. Pay attention.

nov 22 - dec 21

This week, your calculations are correct. Early in the week there could be a rendezvous with your sweetheart. Later in the week you’ll be focused on figuring out your budget and making plans for your financial success into the future. Set some things in motion.

f

eb 19 - mar 20

This week, you’re getting things together. You might need to take some personal time early in the week. Once you’ve recharged you’ll be a powehouse pulling all the details together and making it happen, you’re incorporating everyones ideas.

ON LANDthe

Australian first at Malanda Bull Ride

BY BRIGITTE DALEY

“BIG BUCKS” are guaranteed across the board at this year’s Malanda Bull Ride with top bulls being offered for the Open Bull Ride. In what will be a first for any bull ride in Australia, this year will feature a new event – Butchers versus Bullocks in which 13 butcher shops will have two members of their team ride a bullock.

Malanda Bull Ride president John O’Connor said the highly anticipated event will be drawing riders from all over Australia as well as some great local talent.

Last year’s winner Luke Smith will be competing.

“The Malanda Bull Ride has attracted some of the top 10 bull riders in Australia,” John said.

“Competitors will be coming from all over Australia with Sam Woodall coming from Victoria, Eli Bee from Darwin, Aaron Kleier from Yepoon and Cameron Southern from Wingalan in Queensland just to name a few.”

Starting 10 years ago, the event has achieved phenomenal momentum, support and success.

Organisers are proud to have sourced bulls for this year’s event from Colin Fry of CF7 Bucking Bulls.

“Colin’s bulls have been at the Professional Bull Riding (PBR) finals in Townsville for the last two years and are drawing the ‘best of the best’ as far as competitors go,” John said.

CF7 Bucking Bulls is located just west of Townsville and is operated by Colin Fry, his

wife Maree and family.

Colin has sent bulls to the Townville PBR finals for the last two years, Cairns PBR for the last two years and last year to the Brisbane Entertainment Centre for PBR.

He also took bulls to the Australian Professional Rodeo Association (APRA) finals in Rockhampton last year.

One of Colin’s bulls, Lightning, won the 2022 PBR Rookie Bull of the Year award.

Another of his bulls, Supernatural has competed in Sydney, Brisbane and Townsville.

Also enjoying success is Alcatraz, who is currently in the top six ranked bulls in PBR.

Colin purchased his first bucking bull in 2008 and has been breeding the bovine athletes for the last 10 years.

His strong personal interest in them stemmed from when he was a child and used to ride poddy calves on his home property with his brothers for fun.

One of his older brothers later went on to ride bulls and Colin followed suit doing bull riding and also competing in bronc riding events.

It was in 2019, after he stopped bronc riding after Covid-19 struck, that rodeo bull breeding kicked in.

The bucking bulls which are bred on the property are their own stabilised breeds.

They are bred by both natural mating and artificial insemination (AI).

A bucking bull’s career trajectory usually begins at around two to two and a half years of age when they do Junior Bulls, in which there is a specified weight limit.

At this point in their career they generally weigh around 350kg.

In the Junior Bull Ride the bull size is matched to the competitor’s size.

The bull then goes into the Open event at around the age of three to four-years-old and by this stage can weigh around 800kg or sometimes even more.

Although bucking bulls are generally around five or six years old when they hit their peak, some bulls can still remain competitive at nine and 10 years old.

Bull riding fans recognise the athletic prowess of these animals and understand it’s one of the hardest sports around.

Good bulls are powerful but the great ones are also smart.

Some young bulls have a bucking pattern while others don’t.

Bull riders prefer bulls with a bucking pattern and this attracts bull riders to events.

“As a contractor I have a very cowboy friendly line,” Colin said.

“You want to see good bull rides with a high score, I get plenty of enjoyment out of it.”

It takes both breeding and training to produce a top bucking bull.

“They need to have the right attitude, the right agility and be shaped right,” Colin said.

“When they are young you just get a gut feeling about them, how they present themselves, how they move in the paddock.

“When the bulls get older it is all about their nutrition and keeping them fit.”

One of Colin’s elite bucking

bulls Toy Boy was ridden only once until he was ten years old.

The bulls are scored as well as the competitors, and are scored on their ability to buck.

Colin will be bringing a sizable contingent of bulls for the Malanda Bull Ride, including Lightning, Supernatural and Blood in the Water which are guaranteed to be big draw cards attracting both competitors and spectators alike.

For further information, see CF7 Bucking Bulls Facebook, page or the Malanda Bull Ride Facebook page.

The Malanda Bull Ride is on this Saturday at the Malanda Showgrouds with first buck at 4pm.

8500L DIESEL FUEL TANK

With separate bowser, reel service attachment, all electricals inspected & approved by an authorised petroleum electrician, fully contained in a lockable 40ft container. Located at 12 Reynolds Street, Mareeba. $22,500 + GST

CASE 821C LOADER

With manual quick hitch, 2.32m3 bucket, ROPS air cab, aircon upgraded, service history includes transmission & input shaft rebuild. Approx 7800 hours, well maintained, located in Mareeba.

+ GST

Paddock shot of CF7 Bucking Bull Lightning who won the 2022 PBR Rookie Bull of the Year. CF7 Bucking Bulls is owned and operated by Colin and Maree Fry and family.

Renowned bucking bull Supernatural will be at this year’s Malanda Bull Ride.

ON LANDthe

Valuable opportunity for next “Emerging Leader”

BY BRIGITTE DALEY

MOTIVATED individuals with leadership aspirations and a passion for the Wet Tropics region, the environment, sustainable agriculture and natural resource management are now invited to apply for Terrain NRM’s Emerging Leader program.

Terrain NRM is looking for the next “Emerging Leader” to join its board of directors.

With the program now entering its sixth year, an opportunity exists for a new young leader to take on a 12-month paid mentoring program.

Terrain NRM is one of 56 regional natural resource management bodies around Australia.

It is an independent not-for-profit natural resource management organisation that works with the Wet Tropics community to advance the sustainable use of land and waterways, protect environmental values and support healthy, viable communities.

This role is to be based in the region with board meetings being held in Cairns, Atherton, Innisfail and Tully on a rotational basis.

The board of directors consists of one chairperson and six directors.

Applicants will need to demonstrate the ability to use initiative, a willingness to learn as well as the ability and willingness to provide input to the Terrain NRM board proceedings, particularly on youth matters.

This is a valuable opportunity for the successful candidate to be exposed to board processes,

be able to extend their knowledge and skills, establish networks and be involved in a high-performing not-for-profit organisation.

There is potential for experience and knowledge to advance leadership opportunities for the successful candidate.

This role will be supported by a year-long knowledge exchange and mentoring program, which will include direct participation in Terrain board meetings and mentoring by Terrain NRM directors.

The Terrain board is skills-based and directors must be capable of overseeing the strategic delivery of community based natural resource management across the Wet Tropics region.

For Terrain’s board, it is an opportunity to diversify perspectives and skills and build stronger links, particularly with young people, in the community.

Terrain NRM board’s chair Keith Noble said the organisation’s goal in creating the mentoring program was to build stronger links with young people in the Wet Tropics and to provide opportunities for future leaders who are passionate about the environment.

“The program is a win-win for those involved,” Keith said.

“We learn as much from our emerging leaders as they learn from us.”

Former “Emerging Leader” Lucy Friend said she had never been on a board before she commenced the program and it had proved to be a valuable opportunity for her to gain practical ex-

perience and build confidence.

She is now the board’s deputy chair.

“I’ve studied governance and read about the theory of being a director but practising it with the guidance of great mentors gave me the skill set I needed to progress my understanding and my career,” Lucy said.

“My ideas and viewpoints were valued, and they contributed to boardroom decisions, so the benefit was mutual.”

Lucy is also North Queensland Airports’ Environmental manager and a community volunteer across conservation, agriculture, youth support and mental health sectors.

She said the Emerging Leader opportunity was open to a wide range of people, and believes diversity is important.

“We’ve had Emerging Leaders from sectors including business, tourism, environment, economics and agriculture,’’ Lucy said.

“We want to encourage young people from all backgrounds to apply.

“Everyone who lives in this region is impacted by natural resource management in one way or another.

“The ‘Wet Tropics Plan for People and Country’ is for the whole community and everyone’s contribution is valuable.”

To find out more about the Emerging Leader opportunity on Terrain NRM’s board visit www. terrain.org.au/about-us/employment

Terrain welcomes a wide range of applicants. Applications close on Monday 9 October, 2023.

Lucy Friend took on the “Emerging Leader” role on Terrain NRM’s board and has since become a director and, most recently, a deputy chair of the board.

ON LANDthe

MAREEBA SALEYARDS SUMMARY

– Tuesday 26 September 2023

▪ Total yarding 770 head with 16 head sold by Open Auction

▪ Yard averaged 127.38/kg to return an average of $382.41/head

▪ 255 Bulls averaged 132.8c/kg selling to a top of 224.2c/kg

▪ 59 Cows averaged 58.2c/kg selling to a top of 154.2c/kg

▪ 79 Steers averaged 179.5c/kg selling to a top of 202.2c/kg

▪ 31 Heifers averaged 53.5c/kg selling to a top of 104.2c/kg

▪ 203 Yearling bulls averaged 123.3c/kg selling to a top of 199.2c/kg

▪ 58 Yearling heifers averaged 141.9c/kg selling to a top of 230.2c/kg

▪ 69 Yearling steers averaged 192.2c/kg selling to a top of 208.2c/kg

Funding to deliver sustainable farming plan for Tablelands

AN initiative poised to revolutionise soil and land management practices while improving water quality in the Great Barrier Reef and safeguarding the future food supply in Far North Queensland has been announced by the State Government.

The Atherton Tablelands Integrated Collaboration will be delivered through a partnership between the Queensland Government and not-for-profit organisation Sustainable Table.

Both organisations will provide $1.5 million each in funding towards the project over the next five years, with Sustainable Table also committing up to $500,000 in-kind support.

The collaboration will support horticultural land managers on the Tablelands transition to more sustainable farming practices, helping to improve water quality on the Great Barrier Reef by reducing harmful farm run-off.

The project also aims to develop a future regional food hub in Cairns, integrating regen-

erative practices, such as increasing biodiversity and enriching soil in the Tablelands food production area within the Cairns market.

The food hub will support a circular economy approach to food production as well as facilitating research and development, employment upskilling, and knowledge sharing and learning.

The Atherton Tablelands Integrated Collaboration will be delivered across four key phases.

It will start with Sustainable Table gathering an in-depth understanding of the local context, opportunities, and blockages for regenerative agriculture in the region.

This will be followed by a process to identify stakeholders, potential opportunities, and initiatives for implementation, and a funding program to enable on-farm regenerative agricultural practices to be implemented on the ground.

MOSSMAN

PICTURED: Best of the bull money a/c S Theirry @ 224.2c/kg 760kg.

LETTERS to the editor

HAVE YOUR SAY – EMAIL US TODAY!

Voting on The Voice

BEFORE I vote on the 14th, I would like to know how the powers that be are going to administer what they plan with.

Cali Court ATHERTON

Big thank you to the Ambulance services

WE would like to thank the triple zero lady that helped us on Sunday 24 September, for staying on the line, supporting and coaching us until the Paramedics arrived.

Thank you too to the paramedics who attended (even with the challenging access road), for stabilising the lady and transported her from Oaky Valley to Mareeba.

Much appreciated, you all provided an amazing service, Thank you.

S.H-Stubbs MUTCHILBA

Vote for sanity

DALE Heers gives three reasons to vote yes (The Express 30/08/23) and I respond to each of his points:

1. A referendum is not needed to correct the waste of money, lack of consultation, and improvement in health and wellbeing of the Indigenous community that he refers to. Legislation to create a voice (from

the community) could have been enacted years ago and could certainly have been put in place in the time we have been talking about a referendum, if there was real will. Instead, the current government is piously virtue signalling, but sitting on its hands making out it is powerless without a constitutionally entrenched voice. All that has ever been needed was to listen to, and act on, the words of the grass roots people, not the self-nominated elite, Indigenous and other, who have primarily been responsible for the ineffective efforts to date.

2. The history of the unjust treatment and mistakes made in past, both in practice and legislation, is a poor basis to amend the constitution. It is a guilt driven "feel good" act with no direct benefit to anybody.

3. That there are more federal Indigenous politicians relative to population than others, it is not a false narrative, it is fact. Like any other people, the Indigenous can lobby their politicians, Indigenous or otherwise, to have their voice heard. Many groups can and do form lobby groups to pressure the government toward their personal objectives, whether it be unions, farmer groups, charities, pensioners, Indigenous, etc, most do not expect to have a constitutional authority to speak. The extent to which these lobby groups are heard is purely political. It is called democracy.

The whole issue could have been debated with less rancour if the referendum had

two questions: One to ask for recognition of the Indigenous, and a second for a Voice. Lumping the two together, along with refusal of the current government to give some definition of the composition, functions and procedures of the proposed constitutionally enshrined Voice is what has created such division in the community.

What the voice will actually be remains a mystery. I know there are many who express their belief that they know what The Voice is, referring to the "Uluru statement" and the "Voice Principles" for example, as proof of their view. These two documents are irrelevant, they are just words, wish lists. The only words relevant are the wording of the referendum question, and what is the wording of section 129, that is to be inserted into the constitution if the vote is yes. There are no guarantees in section 129 that The Voice will not have veto powers, nor virtually any other powers the proposed legislation may give The Voice. There is certainly no requirement that the The Voice members be elected by the grass roots community who are poorly serviced by current legislation.

I urge all to read the proposed amendment section 129 before voting on the 14th of October, rather than voting to appease some perceived guilt.

My vote is NO.

MENTAL HEALTH

VOCAL LOCAL

Bruce Jones INNISFAIL

MINUTE

Building resilience

RESILIENCE is a term that's been gaining popularity in recent years, but it is more than just a buzzword. Resilience is the ability to cope with unexpected changes and challenges in your life. It is not always possible to avoid or prevent stressful situations, but you can strengthen your ability to deal with these challenges. Resilience is the capacity to bounce back from difficult situations, adapt to change and grow stronger in the face of adversity.

It is not necessarily something we are born with, but it can be nurtured and cultivated over time. Factors like selfesteem, optimism, and coping skills are essential to building resilience. Whether you are going through a tough time now or want to cope with stress more effectively, here are some tips.

Finding a sense of purpose can help you to persevere in life’s challenges. This could be a social movement, volunteering or advocating for an important cause or learning a new skill or hobby.

Cultivate a network of supportive people that you can confide in. While

friends can't magically solve your problems, their presence, support and collaborative problem-solving can make a world of difference during challenging times.

Becoming more confident in your own abilities to deal with a crisis is a great way to build resilience for the future. Listen for negative comments in your head, when you hear them, try replacing them with positive ones such as “I can do this,” or “I am good at my job.”

Facing problems head-on and developing strategies to address them can boost your resilience. Taking action, no matter how small, can alleviate stress and uncertainty. Taking charge of the things you can control through problem solving, goal setting or asking for help, can be a great way to boost resilience.

Flexibility can increase resilience, learning how to be more adaptive and embracing change can help when faced with a crisis. Resilient people often use change as an opportunity to branch out in new directions. This doesn’t mean that change isn’t hard, but accepting the

things you can’t control can help you to get back on the road to recovery faster.

Nurture yourself; if you are stressed it can be all too easy to neglect your own needs. Taking care of your physical and emotional well-being is essential. Small acts, such as maintaining a healthy diet, getting enough sleep and engaging in enjoyable activities can be great selfnurturing skills.

Resilience may take time to build, so don’t get discouraged if you struggle to cope with problematic events. You can’t always be 100% resilient, so it is important to practice self-compassion and be kind to yourself while you are learning new skills. By practicing these skills, you will be able to increase your resilience and build your confidence in managing difficult situations.

The information provided is from Better Together Community Support. This advice may not suit your personal situation and therefore cannot substitute real Psychological advice please consult a professional if this has raised issues for you.

Not just fuel prices but everything, perhaps transport costs have risen as a result, but one thing is certain, any future subdivision needs a decent sized block to enable a backyard garden and a water tank. The government sure have their priorities all wrong – Bryan Cifuentes

Very soon the age old "Sunday drive" will be a reality again because no one will be able to afford the luxury of driving! No idea what that means for all of us that drive some distance to and from work – Bernie Mathews

They need to start a lay bye system so we can pay it off –Anna Klaassen Gerekink

Feel robbed. Also if keeps going can't afford even go to work – Jessica Lee Hetherington

Appalling. What are the ridiculous excuses for the constant increases? I work in home support, an industry that requires driving a fair distance between each client. I don’t get paid for the travel. Basically I’m paying out of my own pocket to provide a service – Bec Howell Mareeba fuel prices are terrible. 15c/l cheaper just down the road. It's ridiculous – Tamara Grothues

Travelling around we have found fuel is really expensive in Mareeba. We can go outback and unless you’re at Birdsville or thereabouts, Mareeba is dearer – Helen Bryce

Why has Mareeba got such expensive fuel. All servos charging the same exorbitant prices. Rip off – Maree Jane It's ridiculous go to Yungaburra and it 223.9 for diesal and cairns is 214.9 for diesel explain the difference - Trish Stewart

I think we aren't so bad. See it's $2.21 per litre down south. But yes it's too expensive. You can thank Labor, they cancelled the subsidy that we were getting under Liberal – Julia Howard

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

The cost of fuel has increased significantly over the past month, with diesel reaching almost $2.30 per litre in some places across the Tablelands. Locals took to Facebook with their concerns and thoughts of what could happen next.

PROPERTY

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

The perfect block of land awaits you at Amaroo

IMAGINE building the home of your dreams in an area surrounded by nature and serenity, the perfect place to raise a family.

Featuring 15 affordable lots, each boasting wide frontages and essential amenities such as town water, underground power, sewerage, and NBN connectivity. Lot sizes range from approx-

imately 800sqm to 1642sqm, ensuring you have the perfect canvas to bring your dreams to life.

Don’t wait too long because these dream-worthy lots are in high demand and selling quickly.

Situated just minutes away from Mareeba CBD and a convenient 55-minute drive to Cairns.

22 Main Street, Atherton Phone: 4091 7111

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

Atherton

ACREAGE CLOSE TO TOWN!

Carrington

• Set on 5 acres close to town

• 3 bedroom, 1 bathroom home

• Open plan living with fireplace

• Paddocks, flat and fenced

• Rural / mountain views

• 9m x 12m powered 4 bay shed

L24478344

Suzey Whitby 0438 090 306

Margaret Black: Principal

PRIME RURAL LAND

Evelyn

• Set on 45.63 hectares of bare land

• Stunning views

• Fenced into 4 paddocks

• 2 sheds, 2 water tanks

• 2 dams, 1 spring, 2 accesses

• Plenty of house sites

$750,000 L11706957

Morgan Brennan 0407 730 450

WONDECLA WONDERLAND

Wondecla

• Set on 1.57 hectares

• 2 bedroom cottage + granny flat

• Timber floors + T & G walls

• Fireplace & airconditioning in living

• Wondecla creek + pond

• 4 bay shed with 3 roller doors

Offers Over $585,000 L24666485

Suzey Whitby 0438 090 306

RARE VACANT BLOCK

Tarzali

• Set on approx. 50 hectares

• Undulating fertile red soil

• New boundary fencing

• Spring fed creek

• Improved pastures

• Runs 45 breeders

Offers Over $800,000 L11707046

Morgan Brennan 0407 730 450

www.raywhiteruralatherton.com.au

Love fishing? You are going to love this one...

DRIFT AWAY. Far away. All the way to the real Far North Queensland. Only 25 minutes from the township of Normanton, located over 3 blocks approx. 281.70 ha is 'Old Glenore Station'.

This magnificent property, hugs around Leichardt Lagoon and partially sweeps along the Norman River. Abundant in wildlife and bird life and when in season grey nomads stopping over while on their migration to spend the kids inheritance.

With the capability to run 60 head of cattle, business opportunity to continue running the caravan park complete with amenities, fishing station and bush kitchen. Or expand if your heart so desires to include farm stays, motorbike tours or fishing charters.

The homestead on the property is a 3 bedroom highset home with 2 bathrooms, 6 bay machinery shed, bore to supply water and a 4.5 kw Solar System. Ford Tractor

Address:

Price:

Agent:

Contact:

4000 with bucket and Post hole Digger, Slasher, 35 head of cattle, Carry Yards with loading ramp and calf cradle, 8KVA backup power plant, The Caravan park with 8 toilets and 8 showers is hidden gem that is well known in area for hospitality and entertainment around the fire pit along the Savannah Way.

Special Features:

Block 1 & 2 includes:

• 3 Bedroom Homestead

• Bush Kitchen

• 6 Bay machinery shed

• Cattle grazing land

• Camp grounds

• Leichardt Lagoon

Block 2:

• Access to Norman River ( We are talking Barra people. Real Barra)

• Cattle Grazing

This property has so much to offer, you must see it to believe it. Give Mick from Town to Country Realty a call to discuss this property further on 0417 118 618.

NORMANTON $POA

Michael English Town to Country Realty 0417 118 618

Built to stand the test of time

Do you have an eye for detail and appreciate good craftmanship?

This solidly built four bedroom, one bathroom, concrete block home features great traditional construction practices. They don't build them like this anymore.

Just a short distance from the Mareeba CBD this home features an open plan kitchen & dining area, with plenty of storage opportunities in the kitchen.

The large living space is just off to the side of the kitchen, and has double sliding glass doors to the front patio. The home has four well-sized bedrooms, and two of which feature large built in cupboards.

The family bathroom is a good size with a separate shower and tub, and the toilet

is also separate.

Some great additional features to the property are the security screens on all windows and doors, tiles throughout the home, and built-in cupboards in the hallway off the kitchen.

The 708m2 allotment has rear access through one of the carports to the backyard. There is also front and rear patios on the home, perfect to enjoy a cool afternoon.

Featrures include...• Solid concrete block construction

• 4 bedrooms, 2 with built-ins

• Family bathroom & separate toilet

• Combined kitchen & dining space

• Large lounge area

• Tiles & security screens throughout

• Only minutes to town

• 708m2 allotment

• 2 separate carports with rear access

• Front & rear patios

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

Freshly completed and awaiting it’s new owners

THIS carefully designed, freshly completed open plan, modern home is ready and waiting for your family.

Boasting four large, carpeted bedrooms with generous built-ins.

The master bedroom is complete with walk-in robe and ensuite.

With a designer kitchen and large spacious living area opening out onto the tiled patio, you will have plenty of space for entertaining and to enjoy outdoor living.

This brand new home is awaiting its new owners to give it their personal touch and make it their own.

Features include:

• Large benched 957m2

Lot

• Tiled and open plan

Address:

Price:

Agent:

Contact:

living areas with aircon

• New designer kitchen

• Four Carpeted Bedrooms, three with builtins

• Master Bedroom with WIR, Ensuite and air conditioning

• Main bathroom with separate shower and bath tub

• Large Patio for Entertaining

• Double Lock Up Garage

• Located only minutes from town and schools

For more information on this property or to book your private inspection, contact Rino Gava on 0427 779 086 or Email: rino@girgentigroup.com

Lot 238 Pietro Court, MAREEBA $559,000

Rino Gava

Sibi Girgenti Real Estate 0427 779 086

Beautiful, private lifestyle block on offer

POSITIONED to overlook the paddocks and surrounding World Heritage rainforests, this property has a stunning view across the Johnston and Beatrice River valleys to Queensland's highest peaks of Bartle Frere and Bellenden Ker.

The block is 121 acres, with approximately 40% easily accessible rainforest leading into the Wooroonooran World Heritage National Park.

The grazing area is divided into 3 paddocks, each with access to water or dam water.

Theresa Creek, a permanent and substantial waterway, forms the northern boundary, and its dramatic boulders at the northeastern point give the property its name "Ellinjaa Cascades".

The land is undulating with fertile, volcanic red soil.

The very solid, wooden post and rail, cattle yards have been conveniently positioned to work and handle livestock.

The property can comfortably carry about 30 head all year round.

The residence is a modern brick-veneer home.

The principal bedroom offers an en-suite whilst all four bedrooms have built- in robes.

There is a large family bathroom with a separate toilet, and adjacent laundry.

The kitchen with its incredible view, has solid wood cabinetry and is part of an open plan kitchen-dining area, ideal for easy entertaining.

A new wood heater keeps the entire house warm on colder nights.

A separate living room leads to an outdoor terrace

ideally positioned for contemplation of the spectacular view across surrounding valleys and rainforest.

An integrated double garage completes the main house, with a shed/workshop beyond.

This property offers a unique opportunity to combine privacy and farming or rural living, with unparalleled hiking and rainforest exploration, whilst at the same time enjoying the peaceful tranquillity and truly spectacular views from your own back terrace at the end of each busy day.

Address:

• 121 acres

• Stunning views

• 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom family home with outdoor living space

• Integrated double garage and nearby shed/ workshop

• Large permanent creek and World Heritage rainforest access

• Solid hardwood cattle yards and fencing

Properties like this don't last long, so don't hesitate to call Susanne Reynolds on 0408 733 149 for an inspection.

PROPERTY

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

The lifestyle block of your family’s dreams

This expansive home offers 5,000sqm of gently sloping land 2.4km from the Atherton Post Office.

The modern home is tiled throughout for easy care and the spacious living area has a wood heater for winter warmth and the family room has space for a full size pool table. There are four sizable bedrooms, the main bedroom has an ensuite and a spacious walk-in wardrobe. For entertaining and outdoor living there are two patios.

No man shall be bored again with the 4 bay Colorbond shed, ideal for the tradie or serious handyman. Located in a quiet cul-de-sac of prestigious homes for you to enjoy all the benefits town and country living.

To be sold by auction this Saturday, 7 October, at 11.00am, onsite at 3 Larfield Close, Atherton.

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

Address:

Price: Agent:

Contact:

3 Larfield Close, ATHERTON AUCTION

Trisha Jackson Professionals Atherton 0419 183 145

Dreaming of a Yungaburra lifestyle

MODERN, bright & airy; this unique home provides everything you need to live the Yungaburra lifestyle you have been dreaming about.

Making your way into the home from the front deck to your left you have the spacious master bedroom complete with walk through robe, modern ensuite & air conditioning.

To your left is the main bathroom & remaining two bedrooms, both featuring spacious built-ins.

Traveling down the hallway to the rear of the home is the lovely open plan layout of the living, dining & kitchen.

The kitchen is modern and stylish with ample storage, walk-in pantry & great appliances – perfect for the cook of the home.

Flowing seamlessly onto the living/dining and then out onto the entertaining deck makes for effortless indoor to outdoor living.

The entertaining deck is private and you will spend many days and nights sitting back and relaxing.

Need sheds and a workshop? This property has them!

With power connected, plenty of lights & power points as well as great car parking and storage.

To complete the package, stroll down to Yungaburra village & enjoy one of the many cafes, restaurants & locally owned shops.

Contact Exclusive agent Suzey Whitby at Ray White Atherton today on 0438 090 306 for further information.

Address:

Price:

Agent:

Contact:

5 Lillypilly Lane, YUNGABURRA

Offers over $600,000

Suzey Whitby

Ray White Atherton 0438 090 306 or 4091 7111

Elegant, Comfortable, Striking

STEP into a world of sophistication and comfort with this brand new, custom designed home. Located in Panorama Views Estate Tolga, this stunning property boasts a wealth of features that are sure to impress.

Every detail has been meticulously considered, with black fixtures and fittings adding a touch of contemporary style throughout the home. The high set ceilings and doors create a sense of grandeur, making every room feel spacious and airy. Features of this home include:

• Open plan and air-conditioned living with seamless indoor-outdoor flow. Large sliding stacker doors open fully from the inside corner, leading you to a generous patio with north facing rural views.

• Stunning galley-style kitchen with stone bench tops, appliance station, large pantry, large soft close drawers, tiled backsplash, and a waterfall island bench.

• Spacious air-conditioned master bedroom with feature wall paneling, pendant lighting, large WIR and ENS.

• Luxury bathrooms with under-bench mood lighting setting the perfect atmosphere for relaxation. Tiled to the ceilings throughout with rain head showers, and a bathtub/modern wet room design in the main bathroom and double vanity in the ensuite.

• A laundry which has been fit-out with custom made cabinetry to match the kitchen including stone bench tops and plenty of storage.

• Fantastic built-in storage space down along the hallway

• Tidy study nook with feature wall paneling.

This property is a cut above, where affordable luxury and practicality come together. Sitting proudly on a corner block with rural and mountain views and finished off with pathways around the perimeter of the home, security screens, window furnishings and landscaped gardens.

Don't miss your chance to make this stunning property your forever home. Schedule a viewing today by contacting Elders Agent Michelle Raso on 0428 116 136.

Double block with two titles in Kairi

THERE is no sugar coating this property; it is in need of renovation but what a footprint you have to work with.

The home has a spacious floorplan with large proportions, timber floor boards and high ceilings.

To top it all off the 2024m2 block has 2 titles enabling the sale of the vacant block to help fund the house renovation.

The house is solid with concrete stumps and the roof has been replaced, significantly reducing the renovation costs.

The internal walls and ceiling are masonite and the external walls are mainly vinyl clad.

Situated centrally within the Kairi township on a corner location, this home has two street access, is fully fenced and includes two old timber sheds.

Features include...

• Three Bedrooms

• Sleep Out

• Large separate lounge room

• Spacious kitchen dining room

Laundry/office

Address:

Price:

Agent:

Contact:

• Semi enclosed front patio

• Two timber sheds

• fully fenced

• Two Titles

There is huge potential with this package, so don’t miss out by calling Exclusive Marketing Agent Collette Rowston from Raine & Horne Atherton 0419 733 712 to organise your private inspection of this Kairi home.

2 Walker Street, KAIRI $450,000 Collette Rowston

Raine & Horne Atherton 0419 733 712

Raising the benchmark

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

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

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

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

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

MAREEBA

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

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

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

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

Address:

Price: Agent:

Contact:

• Main bathroom with separate plunge bath

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

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

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

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

• 900mm concrete pathway surrounds

• Security cameras

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

• Hidden chook run behind the shed

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

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

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

6 Norman Street, MAREEBA Contact Agent EXCLUSIVE to Joe Torrisi Joe Torrisi Real Estate 0417 700 468

Conveniently close to town on large 1,047m²

NEW to the market and ready for a new owner, this 3 bedroom home has potential to be something special!

The kitchen is in great condition and features a large aircon in the lounge and dining.

The bedrooms are a good size and the master has a built in robe.

The laundry is separate with plenty of storage and the bathroom has a separate shower & toilet.

For entertaining guests, there is a front patio and another tiled patio at the rear.

The 1,047m2 has great side access to the rear and

is spacious enough for a big shed! For car accommodation there is a single bay remote garage separate the house and concrete driveway to complete the package.

With a tasteful new colour palette and some updates, this home will become a great opportunity for the next buyer! Perfect for your first home, families or for a couple.

For more information or a private inspection, please contact marketing agent Kaydee Chatfield at Main St Real Estate Atherton.

Nest or invest

With its masonry block construction, generous allotment, and convenient location, this property presents as a fantastic opportunity for those seeking a comfortable and convenient lifestyle or a great investment opportunity.

The home comprises of 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, providing ample space for family living or accommodating guests. Features Include

• Solid masonry block home

• 3 spacious bedrooms all with built-in robes

• 2 bathrooms

• Open plan living with a cosy fireplace

• Kitchen with electric appliances, dishwasher space, breakfast bar & ample bench space

• Internal laundry with built-in shelving & sink

• Full length sunroom at the front of home overlooking mountain views

• Security screens, ceiling fans & plenty of storage space throughout home

• Garage on both sides of home

• Garden/storage shed

• 1,012m2 allotment with a fenced backyard

Ideally located in a quiet street within a short distance to schools, day care, shopping & medical facilities.

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

Address:

Price:

Agent:

Contact:

8-10 Anthony Drive, ATHERTON $449,000 NEG EXCLUSIVE to Raquel Cunzolo Sommerset Realty 0408 983 879

• 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom open plan lounge, kitchen and dining

• 29 acres abounds with wildlife & native trees

• Boundaries fenced on 3 sides with 4th bounded by the Ithaca River

• 40,000 litre rainwater tank with bore Web ID 20139772

Sale Expressions Of Interest

The Public Rosary Rally 2023

Warrina Lakes, Charles St, Innisfail

Saturday 14th October, 2023

7.30am Onwards

For info: Mrs M Higgins

Sr MaryMaria SJF 0448 105 774

IN LOVING MEMORY OF Kathleen “Kate” Best

14.01.1949 - 25.09.2022

I wish that we could see you, for just a little while.

I wish we could hug you tight, and see your lovely smile.

But wishing gets us nowhere, and longing is in vain. So we will hold you in our hearts, until we meet again.

All our love, Kat, Steve and the boys.

FUNERAL NOTICE

Lazlo ‘Leslie’ PINTER

Late of Mareeba. Passed away at Mareeba Hospital on Wednesday 30th August, 2023. Friends and family are warmly invited to attend Leslie’s graveside service to be held at Mareeba Cemetery on Thursday 5th October, 2023 commencing at 11.00am

1300 781 084

SLOCUM,

Maureen (Previously Smith)

Late of Carinya. Passed away peacefully on the 25th of September, 2023. Aged 87 years.

Loved Mother & Mother-in-Law of David, Kerensa & Geoff, Paul & Heidi. Grandma & Grandmama of Pamela, Daniel, Ben, Felicity & Jeremy. Great Grandma & GG of Dallas, Riley, Mia, Chase & Millie. Much loved Sister to her 11 brothers & sisters. Dear Friend and Colleague to many.

Family & friends of Maureen are respectfully invited to attend her funeral service, which is to be held at Mountain View Chapel, Guilfoyle’s Tablelands Crematorium, 3 Nasser Road, Atherton on Thursday 5th October, 2023 commencing at 10:30am.

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

TAYLOR, Douglas William (Doug)

Late of Innot Hot Springs and Millaa Millaa. Passed away at Atherton Hospital on Thursday the 28th of September, 2023. Doug is survived by his sisters Bev Bolton of Ravenshoe and Carolyn Martin of Innisfail.

FUNERAL SERVICES

FUNERAL Celebrant. Debbie Boardman 0410 328 357

PROPERTY

Tableland Community Housing is seeking new properties to lease.

If you are a private property owner and would like:

• A secure long-term tenant

• Guaranteed rent for full period of lease, regardless of tenant vacancies or arrears

• Market rent paid to you one month in advance

TEMPORARY CLEANER

Immediate start to 8/12/23 with possible extension

Tinaroo Environmental Education Centre (EDUCATION QLD)

We are seeking an energetic, honest and reliable person to join our cleaning team. As the Cleaner you will:

• Contribute to the efficient and effective operation and environment of the site by providing a high level of cleaning support

3464.

• Ensure that the duties prescribed for the position are completed to an acceptable standard as determined by their supervisor, in accordance with the approved school cleaning program.

The successful applicant will subject to:

• A Working with Children Check

• Criminal History Check

• Confirmation of employment is conditional on the completion the of 2 checks

For further information or to obtain a Role

Description, please email the Business Manager: bsm@tinarooeec.eq.edu.au

Applications should provide brief resume including 2 referees detailing work history and any relevant qualifications.

Applications close on Thursday 12 October, 2023 at Midday and should be either emailed to: bsm@tinarooeec.eq.edu.au

Or posted to: Business Manager, Tinaroo Environmental Education Centre PO Box 65, Kairi QLD. 4872 And marked confidential.

• No management fees, regular inspections of property and management of repair issues Contact the friendly Staff at Tableland Community Housing on 07 4091 5356 or manager@tch.org.au to discuss further.

WANTED

FEMALE DANCE PARTNER WANTED For social dancing, old style & new vogue. Classes Monday nights, Malanda and social dancing Wednesday nights, Atherton. Phone Stephen 0428 974 068

COMBINED GARAGE SALE

Saturday 7th October

8.00am - 3.00pm

Furniture, massage table, tools, plants, electrical, household items & lots more!

12 Tilse Street, MAREEBA

RETAIL SALES POSITION – FULL TIME

We are looking for a motivated and energetic individual to join our friendly team. We are a local family-owned business in operation for over 25 years.

If you are passionate about camping and the outdoors, have exceptional customer service skills and are looking for an exciting opportunity to join a busy local business, we would love to hear from you!

Please submit your resume in person to: 27 Mabel Street, Atherton.

WORK SKILLS TRAINEESHIPS

Full Time, Fixed Term (6 Months)

Location – Mareeba

We have an exciting opportunity for a Traineeship at Gulf Savannah NRM. The traineeship is funded through the Skilling Queenslanders for Work program. On completion of the training the successful candidate will obtain a Cert I in Workplace Skills. Eligibility requirements - Not enrolled in school and not currently working. For more information and to apply, go to: www.gulfsavannahnrm.org/employment

Applications close: Monday 16 October 2023 at 9:00am.

EXPRESS

OF

INTEREST CASUAL/TEMPORARY

COOK / KITCHENHAND

Tinaroo Environmental Education Centre (EDUCATION QLD)

The Kitchen team are an important part of the Centre educational programs in providing all our visiting school students and staff healthy, colourful, child friendly, homely meals while they are here on camp. Applicants must be available to work week days and between the hours of 6.00am and 7.30pm. The successful applicants will subject to:

• A Working with Children Check

• Criminal History Check

• Confirmation of employment is conditional on the completion of the 2 checks

For further information or to obtain a Role Description, please email the Business Manager: bsm@tinarooeec.eq.edu.au

Applications should provide brief resume including 2 referees detailing work history and any relevant qualifications. Submit applications via email to: bsm@tinarooeec.eq.edu.au

Or posted to: Business Manager, Tinaroo Environmental Education Centre PO Box 65, Kairi QLD. 4872 And marked confidential.

SHIPPING CONTAINERS Sales, Hire & Transport. Self-Pack Removals Australia Wide. MODIFICATIONS P: 4091 7242 www.sticklizard.com.au

FOR SALE

COX Rejuvenated Ride On Mowers FROM $1500

WANTED TO BUY COX Ride On Mowers Needing Repairs 7 - 7 CASH!

CALL AL 0428 194 505

PREMIUM Tableland Top Soil $9.50 Per Tonne + Delivery 0418 773 504

Queensland Police Service NOTICE OF ROAD CLOSURE TORIMBA FESTIVAL 2023

SATURDAY 14th OCTOBER 2023

Notice is hereby given under the provision of the “Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act and Regulations 1995” that there will be a partial road closure of the following streets for the purpose of conducting a Madri Gras on Saturday 14th October 2023 from 12.00pm until 12.00am.

Grigg Street and Kuradilla Street, Erpo Street and Kuradilla Street, Wakooka Street and Wormboo Street, Grigg Street and Major Street, Monument Street and Major Street, John Street and Herbert Street, Ravenshoe will be partially closed at the intersections of Kuradilla Street, Erpo Street, Wormboo Street, Major Street and John Street.

A detour is available on Kuradilla Street intersecting with Grigg Street, Erpo Street and Wakooka Street. Grigg Street will be open to normal vehicular traffic at 12.00am.

PUBLIC NOTICE

Women’s Sexual Assault Survivors Group

Fortnightly: Wednesdays 9.00am - 11.00am, CWA Hall, Jack Street, Atherton FREE and welcoming (chats, coffee, craft & connection).

Please call TSAS 4091 4036

For further information

MT GARNET GOLF CLUB INC.

A.G.M.

To be held at 10am on the 7th of October, 2023 at the Golf Club

Membership renewal for 2023-24 is now due.

WEEKLY SUNDAY BINGO

Doors Open 8.30am for a 9.00am Start Bosca’s Burger Bar (Old RSL Building) 86 Byrnes Street, Mareeba

Raising funds for Mareeba Hospital Friends of the Foundation!

Publishers Terms and CondiTions

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Proofing The proofing of advertisements cannot be guaranteed unless advertising copy content is received at The Express by 12 Noon

ANIMAL OF THE WEEK

NAME: STANLEY DOB: 21/05/23

BREED: Bull arab x Cattle

Card Option FOR ENQUIRIES PLEASE PHONE (07) 4092 3464

A FAIR SHARE FOR REGIONAL NEWS

Changes to league in 2024

QUEENSLAND Rugby League has confirmed the implementation of a new statewide competition structure for aspirational male and female players.

The 2024 season will see the removal of the male Under 21 competitions, with the current Cyril Connell Challenge and Mal Meninga Cup competitions moving to Under 17 and Under 19 age groups.

The new structure will also align with female competition age groups following confirmation of the introduction of an Under 17 girls’ competition to support the existing Harvey Norman Under 19s.

Both female competitions have been structured to accommodate future expansion and competition growth and will be underpinned by the Future Maroons Academy supporting the City / Country Under 17 and Ruby / Sapphires Under 19 programs.

The elevation of under-age male competitions aligns with the junior representative program in New South Wales, as well as the proposed Under 17 interstate game and the existing Under 19 clash.

The Under 19 male competition will be played over an extended period to compensate for the removal of Under 21s, with a proposed 10-round season and four week finals series.

Both male competitions will continue to accommodate school competitions as part of the existing pathway.

QRL chief executive officer Ben Ikin said the revamp would allow clubs to sharpen their focus on talent

development and talent specialisation.

“Our statewide clubs are best positioned to develop talent for the elite game – and we believe the best 20 and 21 year-old players in the state are capable of playing in the Hostplus Cup and BMD Premiership,” he said.

“Data also suggests that the majority of players in this age group already have been identified, meaning they hold NRL or NRL Development contracts or are Hostplus Cup and BMD Premiership contracted players.”

Ikin said the changes would serve to strengthen community rugby league.

"This model provides statewide competition clubs with a better opportunity to align with their community league affiliates,” Ikin said.

“It’s also important to remember that players who may take longer to develop still have a pathway to open age QRL statewide competitions via local senior grade competitions in their area.”

“The changes to competition structures are further underpinned by the 13-15 year old development programs delivered around the state.

“There are currently Under 15 boys programs being delivered across the state, with Rebel Development Series games scheduled for the upcoming school holidays.

“These programs will remain critical as part of the talent identification process for both Under 17 boys and girls.”

Tigers take on Gorden Tallis cup

YOUNG Ravenshoe Tigers made their names known in Townsville recently, playing in the Gorden Tallis Cup.

Joining 80 other clubs from across the north, the Under 10s team played nine games of intense league.

Coach Jason Boydon and manager Stacey Boyden supported the young players throughout the entirety of the event, through every up and down.

“During game two, Max Strang was concussed and had to remain out for the rest of the weekend. The team

was gutted, as he is one of our strongest players,” Ms Boydon said.

“The team then played without any subs for the rest of the weekend. They pulled together and showed what Ravenshoe spirit is.

“The calibre of teams we played against was second to none, nothing like what we are used to in our Eacham Comp during our regular footy season.”

After the game, Gorden Tallis spoke with the young players, sharing his wisdom and experiences as a

“country kid”.

The Tigers thanked the Ravenshoe Bendigo Bank branch for their support and donations of money, gazebos and water bottles.

“It's lucky we had a spare gazebo, as the Townsville Brothers Leprechauns who set up beside us lost theirs in the cyclonic winds, so we were able to set it up for them to use for the remainder of the weekend. They were so appreciative and even provided pizza to say thank,” Ms Boydon said.

LOCAL LEGENDS FOOTBALL MATCH

The Ravenshoe Tigers Under 10s team travelled to Townsville for the annual Gorden Tallis Cup.

SPORT

Paniagua putting on a show

BY ANDREW SMITH

HE was bought in an online auction for $600 and racked up more than $280,000 in earnings on the racetrack, but Paniagua is now enjoying the richness of retirement in a different arena.

The gelding’s glittering career netted nine wins from 23 starts, including a golden run in 2020 that saw him claim a Cairns Cup and Country Cups Challenge Final at Doomben.

There were wins also in Magic Millions Guineas in Townsville and Mackay, as well as starts at Eagle Farm, the Gold Coast, Atherton and Rockhampton.

But, it’s a small property just outside Mareeba where Paniagua is now enjoying life after racing in the hands of his former trainer Alex Malliff and wife Kellie.

Retiring the seven-year-old in 2022, they are focused on turning the horse they now call “Frypan” around the stables into a champion showjumper.

“He did wonders for us on the racetrack…(in mid-2022) he unfortunately had an injury, he started to do his tendon,” Kellie said.

“It wasn’t bad but he just showed a couple of signs so we retired him straight away because he’s been very good to us.

“He sat in the paddock here with us for 12 months, had heaps of time to recover and then he had a little bit of a wild, last-minute throw in the

deep end starting his jumping career.

“There was a spot available in the David Finch clinic that the North Queensland Showjumping Club had organised and I said ‘oh well, give him a couple of rides and we’ll just put him in the small class at the clinic and see how we go.’”

Saddling up on their former champion, Kellie recalls the Tycoon Ruler-Danni Sharleen product took to the new discipline like a duck to water.

“He actually shocked me a bit – he was a bit nervous when I first got on him at the clinic and he was sort of looking around and didn’t want to stand still,” Kellie said.

“But I reckon it was 20 minutes and he’s standing in line, leg resting with the other horses, like he’s been doing it forever.

“In the jumping world there’s a lot of standing around, waiting in between events – it does take them time to learn the patience of waiting.

“They’re always on the go in the racing industry, everything is about getting from A to B as fast as possible obviously.

“But just with the outing I’ve given him it was like he’d always been doing it so fingers crossed he’s just going to slot into the jumping life nicely.”

Finishing last in his first two outings in Toowoomba in 2019, Paniagua was put up for sale in an online auction and it was the sole bid from Alex that secured him.

Under Malliff’s training, Paniagua then went on to post eight straight wins including the Cairns Cup and Country Cups Challenge double.

The Mareeba trainer said he was not surprised by his former star’s easy transition from racing into the new discipline.

“He was a ripper for us on the track, he won just about everything we put him in and he pretty much paid for this place so he’s got a home here for life,” Alex said.

“Luckily for us, Kellie’s a really handy showjumper and he’s a pretty handy showjumper himself.

“I was fortunate enough to have the afternoon off when Kellie took him to his first clinic and I went across, obviously got there a bit late.

“I hadn’t seen him go around at that stage but there was a buzz about him, everyone was talking about how good he was and what a natural … I was really rapt that he’s going good.”

Paniagua’s showjumping future definitely looks bright.

Kellie has a long history working with ex-racehorses, estimating that she has helped upwards of 60 horses in their transition into retirement.

She is making the most of the Queensland OffThe-Track Program that supports a high-quality first transition for standardbreds and thoroughbreds from racing or breeding activities.

“I have done a lot over the years and Alex’s stable at the track has grown a lot,” Kellie said.

“I think anything Alex retires we will bring them home and see if they’ll be suitable for the line of showjumping that I do, otherwise we’ll try and find them a nice home.

“Rebecca Henry is a registered OTT Acknowledged Retrainer in Mareeba so we have a couple of options but I love taking them off the track and seeing what they can do.”

“Whether it’s showjumping, dressage, they’re going into polo – there’s a heap of them barrel racing at the rodeos now.

“We actually bred a little fella that didn’t work out at the track, he only had a couple of starts but a friend of mine is now barrel racing him and getting him ready for the rodeos next year.

“There’s really not much they can’t do, they’re very versatile.”

Alex was also full of praise for the QOTT program that has helped boost opportunities for racehorses transitioning into retirement.

“It’s of the utmost importance, nobody in racing does it for any other reason that they love horses,” he said.

“That doesn’t matter whether they stop racing with us, we still love them and we want to find them a happy home and make sure that everything’s done right moving forward.”

Former North Queensland star race horse Paniagua is now enjoying life after racing in the hands of his former trainer Alex Malliff and wife Kellie. The winner at Townsville and Cairns during his racing career is now in training as a showjumper with Kellie.

Best in zone ready for titles

THE region’s best cowboys and cowgirls will meet in Mareeba on 14 October ready to go to head to head in the ABCRA NQ Zone Titles.

Boasting some of the best riders in Queensland, the North Queensland titles at Kerribee Park invites only the top ten best riders from the circuit to compete for the championship for the first time since Covid.

The winner of each category will receive more points for their overall ABCRA ranking, a trophy buckle and a shot at the titles in Tamworth.

NQ Zone president Kyle Migate said he was keen to get everyone together for the finals, with hopes it will be bigger and better than ever.

“Only the top ten competitors in the zone will be invited to compete … so only

Sailing star does it again

BY ELLIE FINK

IN an impressive display of sailing prowess, Breanne Wadley showcased her skills once again in the highly competitive ILCA 4 class, clinching the Queensland Youth Championship title for the fourth consecutive year.

At only 16 years old, Wadley has travelled worldwide alongside her family to compete in several prestigious regattas.

Since she was a young child she has been to almost every youth championship to compete or support her siblings.

the best competitors in Far North Queensland will get a shot at it,” he said.

“I’m super excited, especially since we haven’t had one since Covid-19 so it is pretty special to finally get our competitors together again.

“We have a highly competitive zone and we have got a lot of good cowboys and cowgirls and they all have the ability to win the national titles as well as the titles here.”

There will be a variety of food stalls and entertainment for the family. The Bronc Bar will also be open until midnight with camping available to all patrons.

Gates open at 2pm, with tickets available online or at the gates for $40 an adult, $20 pensioners and children over 12 years old whilst children under 12 are free.

Competing against a fleet of 42 boats, Wadley came out on top, winning five out of eight races after three days of rigorous training conducted by Olympic coaches.

The prelude to the regatta marked the most significant youth training event of its kind held in Australia, drawing in eager and ambitious young sailors (under 23) from across the country.

“The coaching is done by really highclass Olympians who also scout for talent, so it was a really great way to get into the mindset and get ready for the regatta,” she said.

“I was competing against some of the top athletes in the whole of Australia – the top 10 are usually at these events.

“So, I managed to do really well, winning five out of the eight races, and it was just a really good regatta overall.”

Hot off the heels of her previous successes, Wadley has now set her sights on the challenging waters of Lake Macquarie in New South Wales for the second week of the school holidays.

Here, she will further hone her sailing skills and compete in the New South Wales Youth Championships, this time navigating

the lightning fast Waszp class of boats.

The Waszp class represents an exhilarating new dimension of sailing, catering to thrill-seeking sailors with its astonishing speed and the ability to foil gracefully over the water's surface.

This upcoming event promises excitement and a valuable opportunity for Wadley to expand her knowledge and expertise in this cutting-edge boat class.

“They (Waszps) have been gaining a lot

of popularity over the past few years and they are very advanced and very difficult boats to sail but also very fun,” she said.

“It takes a whole different type of talent and is very different compared to the types of boats I have been sailing over the past 10 years,

“It will unlock so many opportunities, and I am keen to sail it in Australia and worldwide.”

NEW LOCATION FOR ASHLEY CUPITT BOXING

A local gym that has been running since 1978, has recently acquired a new venue in Atherton.

The gym is open to all who wish to join for fun, fitness, self defence, rehabilitation and competition.

Ashley Cupitt AFSM OAM has trained many people over the decades. Boxers from his gym have gone on to win many titles in State, National and World competitions.

Through the help of many sponsors and volunteers - Aaron Grant & workers - A.G. Building Pty Ltd, Adam Bailey, Barry Paul, Dale Perkes - Wongabel Sawmill, Hagen Sader - Sader Painting, Jesse Cook, Josh Klein, Keegan Bassford - Atherton Plumbing Services, Gideon Herbhon, Patrick Black, Rhys Ammershuber, Will Verri & workers - Northern Building & Construction; Aerodrome Design Services, Brett and Gail Patterson, Shane Knuth MP, QCWA Tolga Branch, Winsome Cupitt; they have transformed an old shed into a well equipped gym with a boxing ring for people to hone their skills.

Joining Ashley are 2 of his former Boxers- Boxing Trainer Louise Ander-

son-Clemence and Muay Thai Trainer Ray Seres.

Louise was the first girl to join the club in 1993 and Ray started in 1988. Ray learnt Muay Thai from Peter Brind-House (world champion) and Trevor Madin - both of whom also studied under Ashley. Ray founded Rayzor-House Muay Thai Gym in 2011 in Malanda.

All of their Trainers are volunteers, have Blue Cards and Trainer qualifications, so you’re in expert hands every step of the way.

Boxing Timetable: Ages 5-80yo

Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday

9:30 - 10:30am: Parents and Babies

11:00am - 12:00 noon: Adults (18+)

3:30 - 4:30pm: Children (5-12yo)

5:30 - 6:30pm: Boxing Skills $5.

Members only (Max 5 people)

6:30 - 8:30pm: Skipping, Fitness and Boxing Technique. (Normal class. All ages)

Muay Thai: Ages 14yo +

Monday and Friday 6:30 - 8:30pm

Breanne Wadley has showcased her skills once again at the Queensland and New South Wales State Championship regattas.

PHOTO PETER ROY.

Strength, power, and dedication wins Kyden gold

BY ELLIE FINK

A YOUNG gym enthusiast is making his name on the big stage, recently returning home victorious from the 2023 ICN TROPIX Far North championships in Townsville and ICN Queensland State Titles in Brisbane.

Kyden Musumeci has always been an advocate for the gym, dedicating a huge portion of his free time to training under the watchful eye of bodybuilding champion Azariah Gutchen.

Despite being nervous about his first competition in Townsville, Musumeci was keen to get out on the stage and give it his all.

In the lead-up, strict diets and consistent training were the norm for Musumeci, giving up junk food and alcohol and focusing on cutting down and looking his best.

Competing in the men's physique novice, under 23 and overall categories, Musumeci came home victorious, winning all his respective events.

“There was no feeling to replace it,” he said.

“I wasn’t 100% confident that I was going to win. I humbled myself and stayed true to myself because I didn’t want to mix up being confident and being cocky.

“But when I was up on the stage, especially in the overalls, I blanked out a bit and got in the zone, and it almost felt like I was on stage by myself.

“I was by myself in my mind; there were no judges and no crowds, and it was all just pure muscle memory.”

Feeling confident after the event, Musumeci was keen to head to Brisbane to compete in his first State Titles.

Although he didn’t feel as “switched on”, Musumeci gave it his all, channelling months of training and discipline in the lead up.

Competing against some of his closest friends, he said he enjoyed every part of the Brisbane round, earning second place in the under 23 men’s and open class two categories.

“I worked just as hard and did the same routine,” he said.

“I knew a lot more people there than when I was in Townsville ... there was a bit of friendly rivalry.”

Now back home, Musumeci said he was ready to wind down and give bodybuilding a break for a year.

He said he will still be training harder than ever in the gym and keeping fit and healthy but is looking forward to “getting bigger” and helping young people get into health and fitness.

“Instead of being dedicated to the competition, I would love just to sit down and have a big family dinner and have a beer in my hand again,” he said.

“I am a big advocate for the gym, though, especially for younger people because it is really

LET’S HIT THE HOOPS MAREEBA!

Kick up dust at dirt drags

MOTORBIKE lovers are invited to this year’s Mountain Brothers Dirt Drags in Wondecla.

Kicking off from 10am this Saturday, 7 October, the annual event is set to attract hundreds of motorbike riders across the region to Flaggy Creek Road track.

This year’s trophy events will include the Junior’s category, 250/450 dirt, European, Japanese, All-American, Modified and Ladies.

Entry will be $25 for the first category entered and $20 for any additional categories. Racers can nominate on the day.

Camping will be available on the night, with food and bar facilities open into the night.

After a day of racing, there will be a “party” with live music.

Entry is $10 per person or $20 per family. For more information, contact Peter Tunsted on 0418 774 530.

Cricketers invited to meet with masters in Mareeba

LOCAL cricket enthusiasts are in for a special treat as four “Bull Masters”, significant figures in the world of cricket, are set to grace Borzi Park today (4 October).

From 3.30pm to 5.30pm, enthusiasts will have the unique opportunity to meet and greet cricket icons Jim Maher, Carl Rackemann, Michael Kasprowicz, and Luke Feldman.

good for anger release and mental health as well as physical health.

“It’s good to let it all out just by pushing weight rather than putting yourself in a hole by drinking and other bad influences on your life.”

Organised with the community in mind, the event promises an exciting array of experiences for all age groups.

Attendees can not only interact with their cricketing idols but also enjoy a sausage sizzle, generously provided by Crimestoppers.

Kyden Musumeci has gone above and beyond in the bodybuilding scene. PHOTO: Durran Olsen Photography.