The Long Horn cattle breed has captured the eyes of many for their unique long pointed horns, but for farmer, Dr Jeni Davila Mendez (pictured) and Reuben Wertz, their long horns are protectors of their Tablelands Lowline Beef stud in Tarzali. FULL STORY –Page 19
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TIME is running out to have your say on the future of Malanda’s Patrick English Pavilion.
Tablelands Regional Council is currently undertaking community consultation on the ageing structure to determine whether the community wants its demolished and replaced with a similar structure or whether they want a multi-purpose centre built in its place.
But the consultation has hit a sore point with some of the community who are angry that an option to retain and repair the building has not been included as an option in the council’s online survey. The survey closes on 18 August.
A LOCAL animal welfare group has been nominated for a Bendigo Bank Community Group of the Year Award.
The awards recognise groups, organisations and notfor-profits that share a strong sense of team spirit and play a vital role in enhancing meaningful connections and social wellbeing in their community.
This year, Animal Rescue Tablelands has been nominated for the prestigious award.
The organisation is a registered charity and volunteerbased group who rescue abused, neglected and surrendered pets and provide a second chance at life for animals.
With nearly 13 years of ser-
vice, the rescue group has saved the lives of more than 1,800 pets and provided them a home to families far and wide across the region.
The organisation offers a half price de-sexing and microchipping program which is aimed at supporting those in the community who may need financial assistance and to also help reduce the number of unwanted or abandoned litters that come into their care all too often.
Judging of nominees will take place throughout September and winners will be announced on Friday 8 November at the 2024 Community Achievement Awards Gala Presentation dinner.
This Saturday, TRC officers will be at the Malanda markets to get feedback from the community.
The results of the consultation and recommendations are expected to be presented to the ordinary council meeting on Thursday 26 September.
Meanwhile community advocate Matt Lachlan is urging anyone who wishes to sign a petition calling for the building to be retained and repaired to do so as soon as possible.
“We only have three weeks remaining until the petition needs to be submitted in order to be considered by council,” he said.
“We need everyone’s help in spreading the word so as many people as possible can sign the petition. If you haven’t yet signed, please do so asap.”
The petition is available at a variety of noticeboards and businesses in Malanda, Atherton, Yungaburra, Ravenshoe and Millaa Millaa.
Anyone interested in the campaign to save the pavilion can email to save-the-malanda-igloo@hotmail.com
jumping up and down, I didn’t know what to do with myself.
The listing follows the contentious bulldozing of a section of the site in June, after which the Department of Environment, Science and Innovation issued stop-work order.
However, the conditions for the heritage area does not include this cleared section of the property.
Friends of the Atherton Arboretum Association spokesperson Gemma Horner said she was “very, very thrilled” on learning that the arboretum would now be protected.
“It’s hard to put into words,” she said.
“When I was informed, I was
“It’s been three years, with a lot of people working behind the scenes, keeping the issue in the media, getting politicians on board,” Gemma said, acknowledging the power of a determined community.
However, the association was disappointed with the decision to exclude the bulldozed section of the site and that no replanting by the owners would be required.
It is estimated that 26% of the 539 species in the arboretum were destroyed in the June action, according to research.
“We want to offer our help in restoring the section of the property, and work with the owners,” Gemma said.
The arboretum, on 47-67 Maunds
Road, Atherton, was established over 50 years with native, remote and rare trees, which have been the subject of research and study for decades.
The beloved landmark was sold by the CSIRO to private owners in 2022, after efforts to get state or federal buyback were unsuccessful.
Gemma said the Friends Association was formed in September 2021 to protect the arboretum from potential development, when it learned of CSIRO’s planned departure.
This week’s victory had not come without community division and challenges.
“Initially, TRC supported the idea of a listing, but then retracted its support because it would ‘constrain development’,” Gemma said, noting Crs Maree Baade and Con Spanos contin-
ued to personally back them.
Property owner Savannah Seven director Dorothy Prince said she had also voiced concerns about the impact the listing would have on neighbouring properties.
“Under Section 15(2) of the Planning regulation 2017 in the Heritage Act, properties within 75 metres of a heritage area go under the same rules,” she said.
“That involves 40 houses from Kelly Street, Tardent Street and across the road on Grove Street.
“No one informed them, there were no letters, no signage put up. The 16 houses I informed did write letters of objection.”
As for the Heritage listing itself, Ms Prince said she had no comment to make.
VETERANS of the Vietnam War and the Battle of Long Tan will be remembered this Sunday when commemoration events take place at Mareeba, Malanda and Atherton.
The Vietnam War was Australia’s longest military engagement of the 20th century, commencing in July 1962 and ending in 1972. By the time the war had come to an end, almost 60,000 Australians had served, with 521 of them killed and 3000 wounded.
On 18 August, ceremonies will be conducted at Mareeba and Atherton cenotaphs to recognise all those who served in Vietnam but it also marks the anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan in 1966.
During that action, 125 soldiers of Delta Company, 6th Battalion Royal Australian Regiment, and three New Zealanders faced a force of some 2000 North Vietnamese and Viet Cong troops. By the end of the day, 17 Australians had been killed in action and 25 were wounded, one of whom died a few days later.
The Mareeba ceremony will commence at 10.45am at Anzac Park in Byrnes Street, while the Malanda service will begin at 10.45am at The Top Rail, 6-8 Catherine Street.
Atherton’s service will commence at 11am at the town’s cenotaph.
A COMMUNITY garden will be established in Atherton after Tablelands Regional Council approved the proposal by Better Together.
The organisation recently moved to its new community centre in Roberts Street, forcing them to leave the community garden behind that had been established at its Mabel Street premises.
Now, councillors have approved the establishment of a new community garden on a piece of council land behind the Robert Street centre.
The community garden will not only provide an opportunity for people to work in the garden, but it will also supplement the food provided by Community Pantry and Emergency Relief programs offered by Better Together.
With rising cost-of-living pressures, fresh herbs and vegetables provide a bit of freshness to the food parcels for people in need.
The new garden is expected to feature food plants and fruit trees as well as a shaded area for volunteers and the community to enjoy the new green space.
“We are thrilled to receive the approval from the Tableland Regional Council – the councillors have been supportive of our initiative and we are very grateful that they have approved our project,”
community development officer Amanda said.
The Better Together team will now organise raised garden beds and other materials for the garden. They will put a call out for community involvement and volunteers once they are ready to begin, likely within the next month.
Weekly community garden meetings, as held at the previous location, will eventually resume.
The community garden will provide the community with a chance to grow fruit, vegetables and herbs, be a location to provide education about sustainable gardening, nutrition and environmental awareness, as well as a meeting place for people who enjoy gardening to meet and collaborate,” Amanda said.
“The garden is another initiative by Better Together to address social isolation, promote positive mental health, reduce stress, anxiety and depression by creating an engaging calm green space.
“The garden will build strong connections, offer a sense of achievement by growing fresh produce and learning gardening, as well as giving the community a long-term economic benefit.
“The garden will also help the new community centre to be more environmentally friendly and positively impact the Tableland region.”
MAJOR upgrades to the Yungaburra sewer network are a step closer after Tablelands Regioal Council awarded a $239,071 contract to Ganden Pty Ltd to do the detailed design for the works.
The upgrades include: New gravity sewers for the Lakeside Caravan Park, allowing for its expansion; new gravity sewers servicing 10 properties on Lakeside Drive and the Yungaburra water treatment
TOURISM operators on the Tablelands and surrounds will share in $10 million of funding to make their operations more flood resilient following Cyclone Jasper.
The grants, ranging from $30,000 to $250,000, are for projects designed to protect business infrastructure from future flooding events, and are to be completed by November 2025.
Kuranda’s Rainforestation Nature Park is among the top recipients with a $250,000 grant to install a solar system and improve drainage to mitigate against flooding and power disruptions.
Mungalli Falls Outdoor Education Centre will also establish a solar system to protect against power disruptions with its grant of $231,353.
KUR-Cow Barnwell Farm experiences will install a solar bore at a cost of $73,842 pump to connect an existing bore to water tank to protect against water and power disruptions.
About $58,096 will help Kuranda Markets build a 10-metre long retaining wall to stop further erosion and mitigate against flooding events, while Rose Gums Wilderness Retreat will install a 33 KVA generator for security of power at a cost of $37,500.
Further afield, Cape York Motorcycle Adventures will get a vehicle hoist and build a flood wall with its $90,782 grant to safeguard
assets from flooding events.
The popular Lions Den Hotel, which became a bolt hole for locals caught up in the brunt of flooding near Cooktown, will use $48,503 grant to install a much-needed generator and satellite communications system.
The support is part of the $29.15 million Tourism Recovery and Resilience Program, jointly funded by the Federal and State for tourism operators severely impacted by Cyclone Jasper and the subsequent flooding in December 2024.
“These grants will help businesses to better withstand and recover from future severe weather events,” Federal Minister for Emergency Management Murray Watt said.
“We know there is more work to be done following the devastating impacts across the Far North, and we continue to listen to the recovery needs of the business community to shape our support.”
State Tourism Minister Michael Healy said: “These funds will assist tourism operators in reducing their exposure to future natural disasters.
“It will help them keep the lights on, maintain a supply of clean water, preserve equipment, keep roads open and floodwaters out.”
More information on personal disaster assistance can be found at www.qld.gov.au/disasterhelp.
PATIENTS at Mareeba Hospital are going without specialised pressure mattress for five weeks despite repeated requests from frontline staff to management, according to detailed correspondence to The Express newspaper.
The author, who is also a frontline healthcare worker and wishes to remain anonymous, said Mareeba Hospital clearly did not have enough mattresses for each hospital bed, and the deficit was putting patients at risk.
“Frontline staff are having to make the difficult decision to determine who gets a pressure reduction mattress and who does not,” the author said.
“You could not fault the nurses and doctors, they were wonderful, they simply do not have enough supply.”
Pressure injuries, often called bed sores, develop after prolonged bed confinement, and in turn are susceptible to infection the longer a patient remains in hospital. The mattresses are used to help prevent these ulcers by stimulating immobile or frail patient circulation.
According to a 2019 Queensland Health Pressure Injury Prevention information sheet, a “pressure injury adds an extra 4.3 days to a patient’s length of stay in hospital”.
“Pressure injury prevention is an extremely important issue and the ramifications for patients who develop pressure injuries have a significant ripple effect. The costs to the health of patients, their families, communities and
the health system itself are incalculable.”
When asked by The Express whether there was a lack of supply at Mareeba and Herberton hospitals, the Cairns and Hinterland and Health Services said in a statement: “Pressure-prevention mattresses are widely available at Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service, including Herberton and Mareeba hospitals”.
“We conduct comprehensive assessments to determine the risk of a pressure injury for every patient who is admitted into our health service, including at Herberton and Mareeba hospitals. If we determine that there is a pressure injury risk, a pressureprevention mattress is used as one component of a comprehensive care plan for each patient.
“Pressure prevention mattresses were allocated following comprehensive assessments to determine the risk of a pressure injury for every patient who is admitted into our health service, including at Herberton and Mareeba hospitals.
“If we determine that there is a pressure injury risk, a pressureprevention mattress is used as one component of a comprehensive care plan for each patient.”
However, the author was disappointed with the CHHS response, citing available data which showed the rate of admissions and overnight stays at Mareeba Hospital underlined the need for more mattresses at the facility, which has 49 inpa-
tient beds.
“During the period of October to December 2023, there were 1549 patient admissions, 757 of those requiring an overnight stay or longer. Between July to September 2023, there were 51 cases of healthcare-associated infections,” according to Queensland Health data.“No data is recorded by Queensland Health for Herberton Hospital.”
The author also noted that other issues at the hospital were raised including: the lack of a simple water cooler (which had been denied by hospital management); the lack of a specialised Palliative Care Nurse to support families and nursing staff many of whom are new graduates; and the mobilisation of patients for helicopter transfers through a patient ward, which was disruptive and distressing for both ward patients and those being transferred. An accessible all-weather access point between the wards directly to the helipad is urgently needed at the hospital.
“These are all basic requirements and the people in need are long-term members of the community, who have fundraised and supported the hospital over many years. They deserve better,” the author said.
“And so do all the healthcare staff, especially the doctors and nurses. I would like to hope by coming forward this brings about an open and honest discussion about what really is happening at the hospital. It’s the least I can do.”
TEAMS in this year’s gruelling Wheelbarrow Race have made the experiences of new mums at Mareeba Hospital a little easier by donating their race money to fund specialised cots for newborns.
A combined generous donation from Dad’s Army, Tune Squad and the St Stephen’s Catholic College Saints, went to the Mareeba Hospital Friends of the Foundation (a subsidiary of the FNQ Hospital Foundation), which made it possible to buy two “rooming-in cots” for its maternity ward.
Mareeba Hospital Nursing and Midwifery Unit Manager Danielle Cahill said the rooming-in cots, which cost $5,126, had made a huge difference to the Mareeba maternity unit.
“Now our mothers, especially those who have caesarean sections, can have their babies in a safe sleeping space beside them,” Mrs Cahill said.
“These cots are becoming increasingly popular and are being used weekly.”
Mareeba Hospital Friends of the Foundation president Tom Braes said they were extremely proud of Wheelbarrow Race teams who fundraised for the local hospital.
“From the very young to the not-so-young, they have done themselves proud by competing
A NEW service station is being constructed on the outskirts of Mareeba that promises to provide a full kitchen, café, and store as well as a kid’s playground.
The service station was approved by Mareeba Shire Council nearly three years ago, but construction did not start at the site on the corner of Malone Road and the Kennedy Highway until recently.
According to the application to council, the project owners are Sutariya Brothers Pty Ltd which lists a Redlynch address as its premises.
Rumours have been circulating that the service station would be a 24-hour operation, but council documents clearly state it will operate from 5am until 8.30pm seven days a week.
According to the council report, the service station will have indoor and outdoor eating areas. A caretaker’s accommodation will also be built on the site to ensure someone is always on the property acting as security.
The service station will only be able to be accessed from Malone Road, with the developer having to submit a traffic impact assessment in order to estimate the proposed traffic likely to be generated by the development and identify any improvements required to Malone Road to provide safe and convenient access to the site.
These could include widening on both sides of the road, turn lanes, traffic islands (if necessary), line-marking, signage and asphalt overlays to minimise damage made by turning vehicles.
DON your gloves and head for the garden because the much anticipated and eagerly contested Tablelands Garden Competition is back for 2024.
“The competition is open to all gardens in the Tablelands Regional Council area and we have categories for every type of garden and gardener including home, new home, rural home, edible, community, commercial and young gardeners,” judge Cr Kylie Lang said.
“Prizes are awarded for first and second places in each category, and home and rural home gardens are eligible for the Garden of the year Award.”
Nominations can be submitted by going to www. trc.qld.gov.au/garden-awards by 5pm on 11 September and gardens must be ready for judging during the week of Monday 16 September.
“We’ll open up People’s Choice online voting between 3pm on Friday 20 and 5pm Tuesday 24 September, before awarding the prizes on Thursday 26 September,” Cr Lang said.
in and completing this grueling event,” he said.
“The funds received from these teams will be put to good use at the hospital with the purchase of equipment that supplements the delivery of medical services and enhances patient experience.”
Dad’s Army spokesman Graham Morrows said there was a great sense of camaraderie during the three days of the event and he was thrilled that the Mareeba Hospital would reap the benefits.
“We run in the ‘Over 55’s’ category and have won that category every year we entered - probably because no one else is silly enough to put a team together to run against us,” he said.
“Our oldest runner was 86 this year and he is one of the originals still in the team. The youngest was 57 this year. We are a mix of all three military services, so there is always banter between them.
“The Mareeba Hospital is a very important institution for the town with its treatment of the sick and injured and assistance with all the hatches and dispatches.
“There is always some sort of equipment they need to help with their very vital work, so we are happy to help provide some of the funding for that equipment.”
Community Bank Mareeba is celebra�ng a�er the reopening of its $600,000 makeover, complete with stunning new livery and a more func�onal working environment for both staff and customers.
Ahead of the official reopening on the 14 August, Gilbert Teitzel, Chairman of Mareeba & Dimbulah Financial Services Limited, operators of the branch said feedback from the community had been overwhelmingly posi�ve.
“The weeks of wait have been well and truly worth it and our four tellers and staff now have a stunning new branch to be�er serve our growing customer base with more offices for privacy, conversa�ons and be�er security. Even our ATM has had a makeover”, Mr Teitzel said.
“This significant $600,000 investment in our branch reflects our focus to be�er connect with and service our customers and to further support and develop the capacity of the Mareeba community in partnership with community and spor�ng organisa�ons, the local council and schools.
“Community Bank Mareeba has been able to achieve some great results for the business, customers, sharehol
ders, and the wider community based on our unique ‘profit-with-purpose’ model, which means our profits are returned directly to the community that has helped generate them.
For our customers, their banking is making a real difference, enabling us to invest and make available more than $6.2m to our local communi�es, and to leverage funding to help bring about some truly impressive projects in the community as we approach the 19th Anniversary of our opera�ons in Mareeba.
“You may not think who you bank with ma�ers. But it does. Our full-service Community Bank branch is a one stop shop for all our customer’s retail banking needs with business banking, agribusiness, insurance and managed funds all available with the backing of Australia’s most trusted bank.
“Our friendly staff look forward to welcomi ng customers to our new-look Community Bank Mareeba branch at 94 Byrnes Street, Mareeba soon and as-sis�ng with all your banking and lending enquiries”, Mr Teitzel concluded. For more informa�on contact the branch on 4092 2099.
As part of our commitment to be�er serve our community, the Mareeba and Dimbulah Community Bank Board of Directors and Staff are delighted to announce the official opening of our newly refurbished Mareeba branch. The project was rolled out in April and now with the Mareeba branch fully renovated to include the new branding and look.
A corporate image which was paid for solely out of profits. This was a true testament to the sound financial posi�on of the Company and an investment in the community for our customers.
MULTI-million dollar projects that will improve Mareeba’s water network are nearing completion, and a $2 million project aimed at revitalising the town’s CBD will start later this year, Mayor Angela Toppin told the Mareeba Chamber of Commerce luncheon last week.
In her presentation to the luncheon, Mayor Toppin gave a briefing on the council’s recent budget as well as the latest economic figures that show the shire’s gross regional product was $1.47 billion for the year ending June 2023.
“Mareeba Shire has also experienced a population growth of 1.4% so we are one of the rural shires that are growing,” she said.
There was nearly 1% increase in local jobs in 2023 compared to the previous year, as well as a 2.5% increase in the number of people employed.
Mayor Toppin said the recent budget had reflected that council was not immune from inflation and had to increase rates higher than forecast to cope with the rising costs of materials and services. At the same time, the council had to take into account a reduction in government grants while also having to repair half the shire’s roads after Cyclone Jasper last year.
Chamber president Joe Moro told the audience that while no one liked increases in rates, having a financially sustainable council was critical.
“Everyone in business is facing increases in costs and council is no different so we appreciate you kept the rate rise as low as you could,” he said to the Mayor.
Mayor Toppin also gave an update on council’s 10-year water security strategy involving three multi-million dollar works that are targeted at improving the town’s ageing water network and providing better water pressure, particularly for the fastgrowing eastern side of Mareeba.
“The raw water pump station upgrade will replace the existing aged pumps and move this facility to higher ground above the 1-in-100 year flood levels,” she said.
“This project is expected to be completed later this month or early in September.
“The filtration system upgrade project is well on schedule and due for commissioning in September.
“The booster pump station upgrade will lift fire-fighting capacity in the Mareeba township and improve water pressure. Testing will be occurring throughout this month and it should be fully functioning in September.
“This is along with replacing aged asbestos cement water pipes which are approximately 60-70 years old and this a problem that most shires are experiencing.
“We are halfway through this water strategy and still have another five years to go.”
Mayor Toppin also revealed that council would be commencing a $2.1 million federally funded project that will deliver an “integrated precinct plan” for the Mareeba CBD.
“We want to create a more inclusive, accessible and vibrant CBD,” she said.
The exercise would cover the area between Herberton and Lloyd Streets and between Constance Street and Railway Avenue.
“In partnership with the Mareeba Chamber of Commerce, the blueprint will consider stormwater drainage, car parking, accessibility for people walking and cycling, public toilets, and amenities such as shade, seating and lighting,” Mayor Toppin said.
“The project will commence later this year subject to the funding agreement being signed. The plans we develop will be used to apply for grants for the staged construction of the CBD upgrade.”
AN award winning photographer is on the hunt for some of the cutest dogs on the Atherton Tablelands, as a part of her money raising campaign helping raise funds for animal and vet charities.
Puppy Tales owner Kerry Martin has teamed up with Tails of the World, a collective of professional pet photographers, to celebrate the dogs of the regions while making a difference for animals in need through photographic coffee table books.
Through sales of the books, they will raise money for Vets Beyond Borders (VBB) and AMRRIC (Animal Management in Rural and Remote Indigenous Communities).
The annual books have raised over $140,000 (AUD) for animal charities worldwide and featured more than 1,150 dogs from across the globe.
Funds are raised through donations of the photo session fees and book sales.
Sessions will be photographed by Kerry and will be featured in the official Tails of the World Volume 3.
“I’m su-paw excited to be using my photography to make a difference to animals in need,” Kerry said.
“I also adore that I get to showcase some of the most beautiful areas in Australia with the dogs I photograph for the project.
“I have chosen to support VBB and AMRRIC because they provide notable services to animals in the areas that I’ll be covering with the project. It’s important to me to support local for a project that is locally based.
“I’ve also partnered with VBB following the 2020 bushfires with our Puppy Tales fundraising calendar and know of the incredible work that they do through this.”
Session spots are strictly limited. Participation cost starts from $100. The participation fee and 5% of photography wall art sales from the sessions will be donated to Vets Beyond Borders and AMRRIC.
For more details, travel schedule and to get involved, visit https://puppytales.com. au/tailsoftheworld/
WHETHER it is glancing at a mobile phone at the traffic lights, or even having the phone on your person, the rules and regulations for mobiles in cars have some Mareeba residents confused, annoyed, and calling for a better education campaign.
One complaint from a concerned citizen to The Express newspaper last week said there was a lack of understanding of the rules, and a lack of promotion of the changes.
“There are a lot of elderly people up here, who would not know all the rules, and don’t go online much to get information,” the man said.
“There needs to be a proper education campaign here.”
He was aware of one motorist who had been “pinged” seven times in a week and now faced a bill of over $8,000 in fines.
“How would a pensioner pay that?” he said.
The man said he was advised that a permanent traffic camera was going to be erected at the town’s traffic lights and he wanted to warn people.
Currently, mobile traffic cameras are used across the Tablelands to record offences such as not wearing a seat belt or using a mobile phone while driving.
The latter attracts a fine of $1,161.00 fine and four demerit points – more than double the fines in NSW and Victoria.
The new fine system was introduced in November 2021.
The Express asked the Department of Transport and Main Roads whether a permanent traffic camera was going to be installed in Mareeba, the number of offenc-
es recorded by the mobile cameras but a department spokesperson said information about specific locations was not made public because it “encourages motorists to undertake the correct behaviour wherever they are driving in Queensland”.
“Locations (of cameras) are based on where road crash injuries or fatalities have occurred where using a mobile phone or not wearing a seatbelt were contributing factors,” the spokesperson said. Information on infringement numbers and revenue was also not provided for the region.
The department provided statewide data, which revealed from 1 July 2023 to 30 June 2024, 12,668 infringements were made, amounting to $151,654,464.
This had dropped since November by 1,036,931 infringements, and revenue had risen by $38,946,821 across Queensland.
“From 1 July 2021 and 30 June 2024, the average offence rates for seatbelt and mobile phone offences detected by the cameras have fallen from 1 offence to 0.5 offences per 1000 vehicles for seatbelt offences, and from 8 offences to 1 offence per 1000 vehicles for mobile phone offences,” the spokesperson said of the statewide figures.
“Detection rate data indicates an overall reduction in offences detected per camera and thus the program is showing itself to be effective in terms of behaviour change.”
• Can I have my phone in my hand while driving?
• Can I use my phone for navigation while driving?
• Can mobile speed cameras detect mobile phone use?
• Can you put your phone in the glove box while driving?
• Are you allowed to touch screen while driving?
• What is a hands-free device?
Tablelands Police have provided the following advice regarding the use of mobile phones while driving.
• It is an offence for a driver to hold a mobile phone in their hand or rest the phone on any part of their body, while the vehicle is moving or stationary (ie at traffic lights).
• It is ok to use a phone if your car is parked.
• Learner and P1 drivers under 25 years old can not use a phone in any way whilst driving - this includes touching it, using maps, Bluetooth, hands-free, voice operation or having a passenger in the car with the phone on loudspeaker. If your phone is in a pocket of your clothing or a pouch you’re wearing, you must not use it.
• Open and P2 licence holders can use a mobile phone hands-free, for example the phone is in a cradle connected to the vehicle. This can include to accept calls, use navigation apps, skip a song, or accept or finish a trip as a rideshare driver. However, the position of the phone must not obscure your view of the road, you must have proper control of your vehicle, and drive with due care and attention at all times.
• If it’s in a pocket of your clothing or a pouch you’re wearing you must not touch or look at the phone. It can only be operated using your voice.
• Do not have the phone resting on any part of your body whilst you are driving.
• Do not use the phone at roadworks or traffic lights.
• Ensure you have your maps, favourite playlist, and anything else you need set before you drive.
• We encourage drivers to set up the Do Not Disturb While Driving function on their phones to help avoid using their phones.
Far North Queensland’s most popular multi-breed beef event, the Tablelands Better Beef Open Day, will feature more breeds than ever with 14 studs participating this year.
The 2024 event on Sunday August 18 will be the sixth year for the Open Day, which attracts hundreds of commercial producers from across Queensland, interstate and overseas.
The Atherton Tablelands has cemented itself as Australia’s most northern seedstock nursery with an array of leading studs participating.
1 BEKI SPECKLE PARK
76 Pasetti Rd (East), Kairi
Bill & Anne Cover 0417 796 639
2 CHERRYBURN GELBVEIHS
Malanda Showgrounds, 8 Park Ave
Thomas Bewick 0447 149 158
3 EULUMA DROUGHTMASTERS
Mareeba Saleyards, 13 Barrett St
Gordon Rasmussen 0429 941 218
4 FASSIFERN LIMOUSINS & DROUGHTMASTERS
195 Seamark Rd, Tarzali
Mo & Charleene Pedersen 0427 330 009
5 FIGTREE GREY POLL BRAHMANS
235 Turner Rd, Tarzali
David Jones 0427 573 904
Maree Jones 0458 872 322
6 GADGARRA MURRAY GREYS
RN164 Gadgarra Rd, Lake Eacham
Terry Leary 0407 111 092
7 HILLTOP DROUGHTMASTERS & MILLSTREAM MINI HEREFORDS
226 Jacaranda Dve, Millstream
Scott & Rachael Bowden 0428 422 146
8 PINNACLE POCKET
SENEPOLS & COMPOSITES
775 Glen Allyn Rd, Malanda
Peter Spies 0419 020 046
9 REEDYBROOK B BRAHMANS
Mareeba Saleyards, 13 Barrett St
Brian Harriman 0448 671 776
10 RIVERLAND DROUGHTMASTERS
5333 Palmerston Hwy, Millaa Millaa
Jillian Little 0429 823 117
11 TALLANGALOOK SHORTHORNS & SANTA GERTRUDIS
86 Blake Rd, Barrine
Nick Trompf 0412 786 719
12 TELPARA HILLS BRANGUS & ULTRA BLACKS
157 Marnane Rd, Tolga
Fiona Pearce 0439 774 309
13 YANTEE CREEK BRAHMANS
468 Clarkes Tk, Jaggan
Debbie Coleman 0427 354 694
14 WARRINA DROUGHTMASTERS
66 Junction Rd, Mungalli
Peter Bauer 0428 976 345
THE efforts of a couple of locals to keep the Mareeba Railway Station free of litter have been recognised.
The Savannahlander exposed the good work of Julian Lawson and his support worker Patrick Aloia, posting on their Facebook page about how they clean up around the area.
Describing the once bustling railway station as “a shadow of its former self”, the Savannahlander said that in its heyday, the station hosted a train every 30 minutes and was an absolute hive of activity and well maintained.
“Unfortunately now, it’s no longer maintained. Pretty much all railway buildings have been removed or demolished, it’s covered in litter and waiting passengers don’t even have a chair to sit on,” the post stated.
But the efforts of Julian and Patrick have made a real difference.
Julian is an avid lover of trains and often stands at the Mareeba Station with Patrick to watch the Savannahlander come in and was concerned about the rubbish around the area.
One day, he decided enough was enough and that if no one else was going to clean up around the station, then he would do it himself.
“It has always been something Julian pointed out while we have waited for the Savan-
nahlander to arrive, he just wanted the place to look tidy,” Patrick said.
“He said ‘why are people so disgusting, look at all this rubbish’.
“So I’ve always made sure I have garbage bags and gloves in my car.”
This isn’t the first clean-up job for the pair either.
“Julian and I have cleaned up a few different places before the train station, like the Mareeba Mountain Goats Skills Park and the Bicentennial Lakes,” Patrick said.
The Savannahlander post acknowledged the importance of their efforts around the railway station.
“Australia needs more people like Julian and Patrick looking after it,” the post stated.
Many people commented on the post, congratulating the pair for what they are doing.
“We recently caught The Savannahlander at Mareeba, we are locals but first timers on our train. We were all quite ashamed of our Mareeba Station so good on you boys for trying to make our station presentable for the tourists and locals alike,” one person wrote.
It is understood that the pair received a fishing shirt each to show appreciation for their work.
THE voices of 1000 rural women are being sought for a groundbreaking new documentary on Australia’s rural, regional and remote women.
Rural Daughters, the feature-length documentary by award-winning CheekyMac Productions, will follow the personal journeys of some of Australia’s most inspiring rural women in their efforts to overcome barriers, effect change and live a successful, purpose-driven life in the regions.
In addition to their stories, a nationwide 1000 Rural Women Survey has been developed to capture the experiences of rural women on a broad range of topics from natural disasters, health and domestic violence to societal attitudes, racial prejudice, Tall Poppy Syndrome, community life, leadership and female role models.
The documentary and survey are the brainchild of producer, director and writer Danielle McAlpine Johnson, herself a rural woman from Gippsland, Victoria. Mrs McAlpine Johnson aims to garner more than 1000 survey responses to provide a statistical snapshot of rural women.
“Surveying 1000 rural women is a bold target, but we hope women take this opportunity to tell us about their lives and be a part of a collective voice in the Rural Daughters story,” she said.
“These women are the backbone of rural Australia and we are putting our heart and soul into telling their stories - how they overcome adversity, find purpose, break limitations and lead in their communities in the most unique and innovative ways.”
The survey has been developed by Federation University’s Collaborative Evaluation and Research Centre (CERC) together with CheekyMac Productions - both organisations led by rural women.
The documentary and survey results are expected to be used to inform policy and develop educational resources in Australian schools.
The survey is available online between August and September and can be found at www. cheekymac.com/rural-daughters To request hardcopies, contact CERC@federation.edu.au
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will be made available this month to allow locals to see how the People Purpose Place project at Malanda is progressing and whether it may be an option for those in need of housing.
The People Purpose Place project is all about creating housing in an innovative way, allowing like-minded people to form a household.
The not-for-profit group is bringing their pilot project to life which, in the first instance, will see older women and essential workers provided with new options for housing.
In a group-like setting, those in need of housing will go through coaching and workshopping together, forming a household and creating a space with like-minded people, and only then moving into mutual housing with a view to creating a home.
The project received positive feedback at the recent JCU Housing Summit in Cairns
and is now open for applicants who will enter a coaching program prior to qualifying for a place in this unique housing solution.
“While it’s enormously important to use these events to get our important message out, it is time to actively deliver solutions,” People Purpose Place director Darren Finlay said.
“We are looking for individuals, groups and organisations who are open to our people-oriented concept - we want applicants who recognise the need for coaching in forming households in order to ease their way out of housing stress and into a household of the future.”
Locals can visit the site themselves at 42 Ginn Road, Malanda on 21 August from 4pm-5pm, or on 22 August from 10am-11am.
For more information, contact Darren on 0491 388 226 or Jenny on 9458 928 344 or email hello@peoplepurposeplace.com.au
TABLELANDS Regional Council is hosting a community debrief sessions for Innot Hot Springs, Millstream, Silver Valley and Mt Garnet residents affected by the 2023 bushfires.
“These sessions will provide a platform for the community to share their concerns and contribute to improvements in disaster response and recovery,” Local Disaster Management Group Chair Mayor Rod Marti said.
There will be representatives from various agencies including Queensland Fire Department and Department of Agriculture and Fisheries at the event to listen to what the community has to say.
“Learning from our disaster response is crucial
to future preparedness, which will in turn result in a quicker and more effective recovery process,” he said.
“By taking on board community feedback we can learn from past mistakes and successes, develop better strategies and allocate resources more efficiently.”
The Innot Hot Springs, Millstream and Silver Valley bushfire debrief will be held Tuesday 13 August from 5pm-7pm at the Innot Hot Springs Fire Brigade Shed, Broken Gully Road.
The Mt Garnet bushfire debrief will be held on Friday 23 August from 5pm-7pm at the Mt Garnet Town Hall. RSVP (www.trc.qld.gov.au/bushfiredebrief) for catering by Monday 19 August.
THE MALANDA RSL SUB BRANCH
Sunday 18th August, 2024 10.45am for a 11.00am Start The Top Rail, 6-8 Catherine Street, Malanda
• Light Luncheon to follow • Dress Smart Casual with Medals For Further Details Phone Neil on 0419 363 802
Everyone in the Serving, Veteran and broader community is invited to attend.
We also extend a warm welcome to those Veterans and Family who are travellers to our region. PUBLIC site
LANDHOLDERS in the Tablelands region can now apply to have areas of their property near waterways restored.
Tablelands Regional Council has fully funded projects to restore riparian (along waterways) vegetation on private land in its local government area.
“Restoring our waterways reduces erosion, filters runoff, reduces nutrients, fertiliser, herbicides and pesticides entering the waterways, increases habitat extent and connectivity, contributes to carbon sequestration, increases canopy-cover, and reduces weed cover and spread,” Cr Maree Baade said.
“The changes will be hugely beneficial to the immediate land, but also along the whole catchment all the way to the Great Barrier Reef.
“Landholders in our region with land including and/or bordering waterways can apply to have their
waterways restored through weed management, restoration and/or fencing.
“TRC will manage the work, provide the necessary advice and be responsible for reporting to the funding body.
“All landowners/managers need to do is watering, weed management and commit to providing photo-point monitoring every six months for three years.”
Landholders can submit an expression of interest by going to www.trc.qld.gov.au/riparian-restoration-eoi by 16 August.
TRC is a Reef Guardian Council and funding for the project has been provided to from the Australian Government to enable Reef Guardian councils to deliver projects and activities identified in their Reef Action Plans.
Rate notices will soon arrive in mailboxes and inboxes across the region. Payments must be processed and funds cleared by the due date to be eligible for the 2.5% discount. You can make payments at trc.qld.gov.au, via Australia Post or BPay, or at a customer service centre (Atherton, Herberton, Malanda and Ravenshoe).
Get in touch if you don’t receive your notice — check your junk folder if you are receiving your notice by email.
Still getting your rate notices by mail? Go paperless and apply to receive your rate notice by email at trc.qld.gov.au/email-notices
E-notices will be applied to the first rate notice next year.
General rates are calculated for each property based on land valuations and the differential general rate categories. In determining the general rating category of land, Council considers:
• private and economic use of the land
• land use codes
• land valuation.
Land use codes and land valuations are determined by Department of Resources. This year the rateable value of the land has been determined by averaging the value from 2022–23, 2023–24 and 2024–25. This method has been chosen to minimise the impact of significant value increases. If your property did not have a previous value, then the 2024–25 value will be multiplied by the averaging number. If the value of the land is less than the average, then the 2024–25 value
Outstanding rates and charges at the end of the discount period are deemed as overdue rates. From 1 July 2024, 12.35% interest will be applied, calculated on daily rests on the overdue amounts on the 22nd day after the rates and charges become overdue. No interest will be charged if overdue rates are paid within 21 days from
statement issued with your rate notice explains the general rating categories, criteria, minimum charges and rates in the dollar. The statement is also available at trc.qld.gov.au/rating-category-statement
Not sure what all the details are on your rate notice? Find out everything you need to know, from our interactive rate notice at trc.qld.gov.au/interactive-rate-notice
We have rate and charge concessions for pensioners, not-forprofit organisations and community groups.
Pensioners must reside in their property and hold a current eligible Queensland Pensioner Concession Card or Veteran Gold Card. Apply at trc.qld.gov.au/pensioner-rates-remission or at a customer service centre.
Organisations and community groups must meet the definition of a not-for-profit entity as defined in our Rates Concession Policy. Apply at trc.qld.gov.au/concessions-community-groups or at a customer service centre.
Have your rate notice details changed including your postal address, email or phone number? You can update your details at trc.qld.gov.au/change-details info@trc.qld.gov.au and at a customer service centre.
We may be able to set up an agreed arrangement if you are having difficulty paying your rates. Get in touch within 60 days from the date of issue of the notice so we can organise weekly, fortnightly or monthly instalments.
Advance payments can be made at any time. Contact us to work out how much to pay and how often.
Get in touch if you are making regular payments and would like to know if you will be paid up by the due date.
SOME great music will be on tap at Tablelands Music Lovers in the next few weeks, with Ben “Banjo” Wilson and Bruce Thompson ready to light up Grainger Lane this Friday night.
Described as “folk, banjo and alternative country for your ear balls”, their music will entertain, with the pair to also perform selected songs from the recent “Blood on the Frets” musical which was the brainchild of Bruce.
The music starts at 7.30pm, with entry $15 for guests, $10 for members.
On 24 August, join a fusion of top-tier musicians and adventurous “sound sculptors” for The North Project Band which com-
prise Nikki Doll on vocals, Tommy See Poy on the keyboard and vocals, and Joe Vizzone on drums.
The trio says their mission is: “To push the boundaries of creative music, champion improvisation, and connect with audiences of all ages. We aim to hone our craft and inspire fellow musicians, fostering a future where creative music thrives.”
The music starts at 7pm. Entry is $20 for guests, $15 for members.
On 30 August, the Hotshots Brass Ban, which was founded by Jack Noonan in 1999, will play a variety of tunes, starting at 7.30pm.
Entry is $10 for members, $15 for non-members.
MEMBERS of Tablelands Libraries can now stream and download movies, TV shows, music, audiobooks, ebooks and comics with Hoopla – all for free.
“You can borrow over 1.25 million titles instantly with your library card without waitlists or holds,” Deputy Mayor Dave Bilney said.
“Then all you need to do is
settle in to watch, read or listen on your computer, tablet, phone or smart TV.
“Hoopla syncs across all devices and, if you don’t have time right away, you can save it for later when you have time.”
The free Hoopla app is available from Apple, Google and Amazon stores, and library membership is free for TRC residents.
FROM uploading cover songs weekly on social media to touring the world, Adelaide’s Hindley Street Country Club will bring its remarkable success to Savannah in the Round this October.
Making their debut at the event, the HSCC began as a group of talented session musicians recording re-arranged covers and uploading them to social media. Today, the group have amassed over 1,000,000 YouTube subscribers globally and accumulated over a bil-
lion views across platforms.
Dubbed as “the world’s greatest cover band”, the Hindley Street Country Club cover the greatest songs from iconic eras such as the 70s, 80s or 90s. The band visits audiences across the globe yet still release a YouTube video every Friday.
They have had zero support or endorsement from traditional gatekeepers and tastemakers. Their growth has come from one of the most powerful and authentic mar-
keting tools available, a personal recommendation. It is fuelled purely by fans who have shared their love for the band with others.
Tickets are on sale now for Savannah in the Round. Hosted at Mareeba’s Kerribee Park from 11-13 October, this year’s headlining acts include the famous Kip Moore, Tyler Hubbard and Queensland’s own, Sheppard.
For three unforgettable days of music, camping and entertainment visit www.savannahintheround.com.au
LESS soil is being lost to creeks and rivers on the southern Tablelands thanks to changed grazing practices and to solutions like rock chutes for eroded gullies.
Seven farming families have been working with not-for-profit environmental organisation Terrain NRM and grazing and soil health specialists for the last seven years on changes that range from dividing paddocks up and rotating cattle differently to building up vegetation coverage where rock chutes and bund walls have been built to stop gullies from eroding any further.
Graziers say the results include better pastures.
“What we’re seeing is more feed and better-quality feed,” Woodleigh Station’s Pete Waddell said.
“We’ve fenced to cut paddocks up and we’re now running bigger numbers of cattle on smaller areas rather than the reverse, which is the traditional approach. I’ve seen a marked improvement in the condition of country.’’
Terrain NRM’s Duncan Buckle says the combined impact of 10 erosion-control structures, and grazing management changes across six cattle stations, is keeping thousands of tonnes of soil on the land each wet season and stopping an estimated 4,500 tonnes of the really fine soil particles - the equivalent of 225 semi-trailer loads - from becoming sediment on the Great Barrier Reef each year.
“Fine-tuning grazing management
practices and making the land more resilient has been a big part of these two projects,’’ he said.
“It’s the key to reducing erosion in the Herbert River catchment. We’ve been working with graziers to improve the health of grassland ecosystems and cattle, and to improve production.
“We look at ways to manage cattle to promote soil health because improved soil health results in thicker, healthier, more nutritious pastures. And getting more roots in the soil means the soil can absorb water better and hold together better.”
Grazier Curtis Archer says changes on Glen Ruth Station are creating better pastures and making it easier to handle cattle and control weeds like lantana with fire.
“We’ve split paddocks in half and gone to a three-paddock rotation system in the river country and another three-paddock system to manage the creek flats,’’ he said
“It’s making the cattle work the country better, rather than just sitting on creek flats and always hammering them.
“It’s giving paddocks a more even graze and we’ve seen the dominant species take over – good native grasses.
“We’ve got three times the volume of grass in these paddocks, which means we can add a few more cattle now. I think there will be more and more benefits over the years.
“We’ve added fences and watering
points so there are significant costs. Being part of this project with Terrain NRM has helped us implement these changes more quickly and cost-effectively.”
The Upper Herbert Sediment Reduction Project is funded by the partnership between the Australian Government’s Reef Trust and the Great Barrier Reef Foundation.
The Herbert Gully and Grazing Project was funded through the Australian Government’s Reef Trust IV program. These projects targeted the Herbert River catchment because it is one of Queensland’s five highest contributors of fine sediment to the Great Barrier Reef.
While the projects mainly focused on seven large properties, including a cane farm in the Ingham region where a pile field was constructed to prevent more streambank erosion, they have also involved more than 70 properties, other landholders in workshops on soil health, grazing management and hydrology, looking at the way water runs through properties and how to stop small-scale erosion.
INDEPENDENT data released by the Queensland Government has clearly demonstrated the state’s primary producers play a significant role in managing landscapes for ecological health while also fulfilling the vital task of feeding the world.
Cattle Australia chief executive officer
Dr Chris Parker said the latest Statewide Landcover and Trees Study (SLATS) report showed it was possible to strike the right balance between conservation and agricultural production, and supported the beef industry’s land management practices.
“The narrative that agriculture, and the beef industry in particular, are somehow perpetrating widespread habitat destruction has been discredited, yet again, by this latest data,” Dr Parker said.
“The report shows in 2021-22 there was a decrease of 7% in overall woody vegetation clearing activity across the state compared with the previous year.
“This decrease is nothing but a good out-
come for biodiversity and carbon emissions reductions in the state.”
Acknowledging the reported increase of regulated vegetation clearing, up from 61,400 hectares in 2020-21 to 71,100ha in 2021-22, Dr Parker said it was imperative the figures were not taken out of context as a means to discredit the positive findings.
“The increase is largely due to more landholders managing vegetation encroachment on native grasslands in response to the sequential wet years Queensland has experienced – actions which also support biodiversity and environmental outcomes,” Dr Parker said.
“Additionally, regulated land in Queensland amounts to 140 million hectares, meaning the 71,100ha that was cleared represents just 0.051% of the total area. Of that 71,100ha, 74.5% is categorised as land area of least concern.
“Overall, the data shows the trend is down, with a 64% reduction in regulated veg-
etation clearing over a four-year period.”
Dr Parker said also contributing to the positive findings was the further 31,09ha of regrowth mapped as part of the study, adding to the 59,654 ha of new growth mapped the previous year.
“The SLATS is an important tool that enables the monitoring of how much land is being cleared and ongoing vegetation clearing trends in Queensland, and it is pleasing to see consistent updates to the mapped area,” Dr Parker said.
“Ensuring this data is up to date and accurate enables the state’s primary producers to scientifically verify claims tied to environmental, social and governance requirements, and we look forward to working with both the Queensland and Federal governments to ensure the continuation of this progress.
“Doing so will further support initiatives such as the Land Management Commitment in demonstrating how we manage landscapes in the unique Australian context.”
THE Long Horn cattle breed has captured the eyes of many for their unique long pointed horns, but for farmers, Dr Jeni Davila Mendez and Reuben Wertz, their long horns are protectors of their low line stud.
Tablelands Lowline Beef in Tarzali was the perfect “accidental” operation after Jeni and Reuben stumbled across a deserted property when moving to the region.
Jeni hails from the heart of Central Mexico, with her hometown, Tehuitzingo, reminiscent of a “scene from a Clint Eastwood western, complete with quaint church towers casting long shadows over dusty streets”.
After completing medical school and embarking on a specialty in obstetrics, she met Reuben, who was raised on a property north of Mossman, had a trade background and was working as a FIFO mining contractor at the time.
After their marriage, Jeni migrated to Australia, became a citizen, and worked hard to get her Mexican medical qualifications recognised in her new home.
A fortuitous phone call led to a position at Malanda Medical Care, and after two years in Malanda, Jeni and Reuben purchased a neglected cattle property, intending to collect rent from the agistment.
However, they soon faced challenges that led them to restock the farm with their own cattle, making it their home and livelihood.
“We call ourselves accidental farmers. Neither of us expected to end up on 200 acres at Tarzali farming Lowline Beef cattle and a quartet of Longhorns,” Reuben said.
“The farm was lacking infrastructure. Fences were few and the yards were falling apart. Not being cattle people we figured we needed a small docile breed that we could handle easily, Lowline simply ticked all the boxes.
“As luck would have it there was a herd for sale near Airlie Beach which got us 32 animals and we grabbed another eight from Cloudbreak Lowlines at Eungella to fill up the truck.”
Farming Lowline was the perfect breed to have on their new property, and with their new herd settling in at home, they thought they were set.
That was until dingos attacked the neighbouring property’s Brahman, giving Reuben and Jeni an unexpected new challenge.
They did some research and stumbled across an unlikely hero – the Long Horn.
“With this in mind, we stopped to visit Mick and Linda Bethal at their Texas Long Horn stud near Charters Towers. We were star-struck by the beautiful colours and amazing horns that the breed is renowned for,” Rueben said.
“Long Horns resulted from survival of the fittest in a really harsh environment. The Iberian stock brought to Mexico by Spanish Conquistadores learned to fend for themselves against cougars, bears, wolves and coyotes.
“We figured they would be perfect guardians for our herd. The Lowlines do a pretty good job of protecting their own anyhow, and after witnessing a few unsuccessful dingo attacks, we stopped worrying.
“It’s been almost four years now and we haven’t lost a single animal to predation.”
Rueben said he and Jeni have favourites among their Long Horns and Lowlines and can often be found cuddling up to them.
Many are “freezer exempt”, including Little Bub, who Reuben raised from a bottle.
“Everyone loves Little Bub, orphaned at birth and raised on a bottle. (He is) now a 360kg Lowline steer who has freezer exempt status,” he said.
“Ice-cream and Travieso with their massive horns, which resulted from crossing Texas Long-
• Yantee Creek Brahmans
• Cherryburn Gelbviehs
• Gadgarra Murray Greys
horn cows with African Watusi stud bulls (are also favourites).
“We have been very hands-on with these boys since birth because they had potential to be very dangerous - their huge horns are heavy and carry significant momentum.”
“Ice-cream is a real sook. He’ll take a cuddle from anyone. When he’s near the house he will stand at the gate and growl softly until someone brings him a treat.
“Travieso inherited the impatience of his mother and doesn’t like to be disturbed while he is grazing. He prefers me to Jeni for some reason.”
“Reata Rose is Travieso’s mum. She’s tame but you couldn’t call her a pet. Intolerant is probably a
become
for anyone involved in the industry. This year, 14 studs will participate in the event which is all about improving the quality of beef produced in the region, according to event organiser Nick Trompf.
The Open Day allows visitors to visit the 14 studs in their own time.
THE STUDS ARE:
• Hilltop Droughtmasters & Millstream Mini Herefords
• Riverland Droughtmasters
good description.
“She is quite happy to eat from your hand and get a scratch but when the food runs out you better have an exit plan because she will try to bully more food out of you!
“Bahati, mother of Ice-cream, has a wonderful temperament that is reflected in all of her offspring. She is a very considerate cow and will tilt her head to avoid hitting you with a horn when she wants to swat a fly on her backside.
“We’ve never seen an injury from the horns. The Longhorns interact well with the Lowlines and don’t like to be separated from their herd.”
Updates on the Long Horns and Lowlines can be found on Rueben and Jeni’s Facebook page.
• Warrina Droughtmasters
• Telpara Hills Brangus and UltraBlacks
• Tallangalook Shorthorns and Santa Gertrudis
• Reedybrook B Brahmans
• Pinnacle Pocket Senepols and Composites
• Figtree Grey Poll Brahmans
• Fassifern Limousins and Droughtmasters
• Euluma Droughtmasters
• Beki Speckle Park For more information go to the Tableland Better Beef Open Day Facebook page.
THE Malanda pavilion has a TRC Heritage overlay. Under the Planning Act, section 8.2.6, the demolition of the pavilion could not occur unless an engineering report is submitted to council demonstrating the building is not REASONABLY CAPABLE of being made structurally sound.
When council officers recommended the demolition of the pavilion in 2020, the Heritage overlay prevented this from occurring. This legal impediment was not disclosed in the report to councillors.
TRC ignored the 2015 and 2018 engineering inspections outlining the structural repair work required. No further independent assessments were obtained for five years.
The 2023 TEG report warned of the potential risk posed to public safety with six separate pages outlining structural issues requiring “immediate action”. Despite the threat to public safety therein revealed, the public was not informed, and the building was left to rot for another year.
Why then was a report commissioned just 12 months later? Was it because it was anticipated, as outlined by TEG, that failure would occur and the trigger for demolition would thus be enabled?
The 2024 report provided the only opinion that would potentially trigger the exemption enabling the demolition: “In our opinion, TRC should consider demolishing the pavilion and stage due to the cost of rendering them safe to occupy.”
The Heritage Overlay must have been known to the CEO and council officers. Under the rules of local government, council officers take instruction from the CEO.
The question is: did the CEO and officers properly inform councillors of the true status of the pavilion, over this time period?
There are no records of any quotations being obtained pertaining to the structural issues identified within the above reports. How can it be that TRC never even obtained a quotation?
Is this because there was never a plan to repair the building?
This is no longer “just” about the pavilion - it is about a deeply flawed process, where the wider community was not consulted, where kept in the dark, overtly misled, and the principles set out under the Local Government Act were ignored.
The ultimate responsibility for that
rests firmly with the CEO.
On 21 June, I lodged a formal complaint with the CEO. His response included the following statements:
1. That council had no prior knowledge of any risk to public safety posed by the Pavilion.
2. The Black & More report of May 2024 is the first advice identifying the severity of the structural defects.
Both statements are completely and verifiably false, and it is unconscionable that such blatant misrepresentations continue to be made.
An expanded 21-page formal complaint was filed with the CEO on 31 July.
The question needs to be asked – has the CEO at all stages, been supplying comprehensive, truthful information to councillors? When were the contents of the 2023 assessment first disclosed, and the report provided to councillors in the last term of council?
If councillors were not made aware of this report in 2023, why not and who’s head/s needs to roll?
Matt Lachlan GLEN ALLYN
BELOW is a copy of a complaint submitted to Ergon.
“Requested a refund two weeks ago. The paperwork says will be refunded in 15 days. No response. Telephoned and waited on the phone for half an hour.
“Account is in credit a substantial amount. Informed as funds are for ‘cost of living’ we cannot have it. A staff member does not like talking to me and has an attitude - I can hear it in her voice, which is soon in mine as the ridiculous conversation continues.
“This is not Ergon’s money - but she insists they must keep it. This means the account will continue to increase as a credit balance because we have solar which we manage well. This is not Ergon’s bank account.
“You state on your website to apply for a refund - Put Up the Exception. Refund the money, please. It is not yours.”
C. Ison MAREEBA
WITH the tragic news on the weekend of a young father being taken by a 4.9m crocodile in plain sight of his wife and with his three young sons nearby, we are again reminded of how lethal these prehistoric animals can be.
This family were not fishing or even in the water when disaster struck. The father slipped and fell into the water while walking with his family on a track on the banks of the Annan River near Cooktown, and almost immediately fell victim to the resident crocodile.
It’s hard to imagine the trauma and loss this young family has and will continue to suffer.
We are only too aware that interactions between large estuarine crocodiles and humans will continue to increase, as more people visit our remote areas, and the crocodile populations grow.
There is little doubt that the antiquated crocodile management plans need to be reviewed, and urgently.
We cannot rid our waterways of this apex predator however where, by its size location, or behaviour, a crocodile poses a threat to people in populated areas, or areas of high frequency visitations it should be removed.
Whilst I do not support trophy hunting, as it is too hard to regulate, I do support egg harvesting as a method of population control.
Vital to any management program is public awareness and education. With modern surveillance and communication technology, we can surely warn otherwise unsuspecting visitors when crocodiles are present in any location frequented by visitors.
Lastly there needs to be tough and enforceable laws against anyone knowingly feeding crocodiles.
David
Kempton LNP Candidate for Cook
I AM writing to express my concerns on the “inaction’ of local people/authorities which greatly increased the likelihood of Dr Dave Hogbin being attacked by a crocodile on the Annan River, Cooktown on 3 August.
My family and I express our deepest condolences to Dr Hogbin’s family for their tragic loss. When you hear of someone being taken/attacked by a saltwater crocodile, almost on every occasion it is the actions of the victim that leads to an attack occurring.
Dr Hogbin was not one of these people. By his wife’s own account, who witnessed it, a bank gave way in a steep location which put him into deep water within a few seconds.
Being tidal, the bank was not only steep but wet. Unfortunately, even with the gallant efforts from his wife, he was unable to get out and away in time. A 4.9m croc grabbed him and pulled him under.
The key point to this attack is “time”. Had Dr Hogbin two minutes, one minute or even just 30 seconds to get out, he probably could have done so. I know this location, this is a well-known location known by locals and travellers as a place to fish and see crocs on the opposing sand bank, about 150m away.
This of course makes it a location that
the crocs know of heightened activity. What is also known, including by Cook Shire Council and local enforcement authorities, with videos online showing as well, that it is a location that roadkill and fish frames from a day’s catch are taken there to lure the crocs out of the depths to witness them feeding.
This is an unlawful action, and the inaction or ineffective action by council and police over many years to stop this occurring meant Dr Hogbin did not have the “time” he would have if he had slipped into the water in a different location.
Those throwing food to the crocs are mostly responsible for his death. The lack of effective action by authorities to enforce penalties for such feeding must place some responsibility on them too. Responsibility however does not stop there.
People, in particular locals, witness and or hear of these feedings but few, if any, report it. What compelled me to write this letter is that I, myself, have witnessed fish frames being dumped to feed the crocs.
Even though I was dismayed at what I saw, the thought of reporting it unfortunately went no further than that. Hence, I too feel some guilt for Dr Hogbin’s death.
Yes, crocodile management has varying points of view, however, on the feeding of crocs we should be unanimous, it is an absolute NO!
I will not fail to report such acts in the future. I implore authorities to act now to greatly reduce this unlawful activity from continuing to happen which in particular puts unsuspecting visitors at a much higher risk of attack.
Report illegal feeding of Crocodiles to DESI 1300 130 372
Marco Tiraboschi MAREEBA
SO, a lot of Australians are living in financial stress? Having trouble with all sorts of repayments? Must be only the privileged few who are not. Gotta be the many hundreds who travelled to Paris for the games.
How many thousands of dollars did that cost for two weeks.? Next week they’ll be on the “Go fund me page” to help pay their power bills and buy them groceries.
Talk about getting their priorities all confused.
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Inside, the bedrooms are carpeted for comfort, ensuring a cozy and inviting atmosphere throughout. The modern bathrooms are stylishly appointed to cater
to your everyday needs.
Step outside through sliding glass doors onto a spacious patio, complete with exterior blinds, creating a private oasis for outdoor relaxation and social gatherings. The patio overlooks picturesque views.
Situated opposite a park reserve, this property offers immediate access to green spaces, perfect for leisurely walks or enjoying outdoor activities with family and
friends. The corner block location not only enhances privacy but also presents opportunities for landscaping and personalization of outdoor spaces.
Additional features include a double remote garage, providing secure parking and ample storage space for vehicles and belongings, ensuring convenience and peace of mind. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to make this your new home. Contact us today to arrange a private viewing and discover first-hand how this property combines spacious, contemporary living with a peaceful, natural setting.
RENOVATED from top to bottom this gorgeous home has had a new lease on life, and is the perfect opportunity for first home buyers, growing families and investors alike to purchase a home where all the work has been done.
The list of renovations is endless. The house has been freshly rendered and painted inside and outside. There is a new kitchen, new air-conditioning, new lighting, and hot water system. The bathroom has been updated with tiling and new vanity. New vinyl flooring and carpet has been installed in the kitchen, hallway and bedrooms.
There is plenty of room for the whole family with 4 spacious bedrooms, 1 bathroom, a large living room, and a great back patio. The brand new kitchen has plenty of bench space, a new oven and stove, and a dining space as well.
The 779m2 allotment is fully fenced, with a new concrete driveway, and is conveniently located close to schools, shops and parks.
Property Features:
• Renovated top to bottom
• Rendered concrete block
• 4 Spacious
1
NESTLED at the end of a tranquil cul-de-sac and surrounded by expansive largeacreage properties, this remarkable property spans an impressive 8.25 acres. Located just 10 kilometres from town, it offers the perfect blend of serene rural living with convenient access to urban amenities.
Main House:
• Bedrooms: 4 good sized bedrooms, 3 featuring builtin cupboards.
• Kitchen: Modern kitchen with electric appliances and ample storage. Complete with breakfast bench
• Bathroom: Contemporary bathroom designed for comfort and style.
• Living/Dining: Expansive open plan living and dining area equipped with air conditioning for year-round comfort. The living area seamlessly flows into a semi-enclosed entertaining area, perfect for hosting gatherings. Second Home:
• Bedroom: Single bedroom with a built-in wardrobe.
• Bathroom/Laundry: Combined bathroom and laundry for convenience.
• Kitchen/Dining: Open-plan kitchen and dining area complete with air conditioning.
• Entertaining Area: A mas-
sive, enclosed family entertaining area, ideal for gatherings or cozy night in.
Additional Features:
• Sheds: A spacious 8x9 shed plus additional storage sheds, providing ample space for all your tools and equipment.
• Utilities: The property is serviced by mains power and a reliable bore, ensuring you have all the necessities for comfortable living. This property is a rare find, offering expansive living spaces, modern amenities, and a peaceful, private setting. Don’t miss your chance to own this slice of paradise. Contact us today to arrange a viewing and experience the charm of this extraordinary estate firsthand.
For more information or to arrange a private viewing, contact Exclusive Marketing Agent Daimin Kochi on
Get out of town and discover what it’s like to live in peace and quiet. This property would be perfect for a family wanting the rural lifestyle yet still be close to shops, schools, and amenities.
Sitting on 19.96acres of land, you’ve got endless options on what to do here. Ideal for those with cattle, horses, or other livestock. Space to ride around on motorbikes, or simply grow some veggies.
Features Include;
• Beautifully presented clay brick home (approx. 330m2 under roof)
• 4 Bedrooms, 3 bedrooms with built-in robes & reverse cycle air-conditioning
• 2 bathrooms, 1 bathroom recently renovated
• Spacious rumpus room
• Open plan kitchen/dining room
• Tasmanian Oak kitchen with electric appliances, breakfast bar & dishwasher
• Separate lounge room with a classic brick fireplace
– Perfect for the cooler months.
• Large sunroom overlooking Carrington Falls & the Herberton Range
• Tiles, ceiling fans & plenty of storage space throughout home
• 3 bay remote-control garage with storage cupboards
• Outdoor entertainment area + verandas on 2 sides of home
• Outdoor laundry & a separate storeroom on veranda
• Mostly cleared 19.96 acre property
• 3 bay open shed with power & water
• Equipped bore, 5,000L rainwater tank, dam & property backs onto a permanent creek
• Solar panels with 2 inverters
Address: Price: Agent:
Contact:
• 4 fenced paddocks
• Animal enclosure with an automatic water trough
• Ford 5000 Tractor complete with slasher, reverse blade & disc harrow
• 40 Irrigated fruit trees + veggie gardens
• Well established and maintained gardens
• Escape to your own sanctuary, no neighbours in sight!
• Gazetted road on the right side of the property boundary
• Sealed road to the property
• Ideally located only 8kms from Atherton town Centre
For further information or to arrange an inspection, call marketing agent Raquel at Sommerset Realty on 0408 983 879.
107 Ti Tree Road, WONGABEL Contact Agent Raquel Cunzolo Sommerset Realty 0408 983 879
THIS newly constructed property offers a luxurious and modern living experience and is situated in Atherton’s newest residential subdivision consisting of large 2000m2 blocks and offering a unique living experience within close proximity to Atherton CBD.
Step inside and be greeted by the soaring raked ceiling, generous open plan living and a stunning rock feature wall. The outstanding design includes a separate media room, built-in office area, 4 bedrooms with built-in cupboards and quality fixtures and fittings throughout. The inside flows effortlessly to the generous outdoor living area with more stunning stone features including a porphyry stone floor.
Sleek kitchen cabinetry, stone benchtops and endless storage will make cooking and entertaining a breeze in this kitchen which is centrally located to all living areas. There is a large media room for those who prefer a cosy sound-controlled environment to enjoy their favourite movies otherwise relax and socialise in the generous open plan living space.
Property Features:
• 4 Bedrooms all with built-in cupboards
• Ensuite with large walk-in
• Large 2040m2 block with plenty of room for a shed
6400 x 6400 Double lockup garage
Open plan living with raked ceiling and expansive glass doors allowing light flow throughout the house
Kitchen with stone tops, masses of storage and bench space • Media room • Built-in office nook with added storage
Internal laundry
Outdoor living with porphyry crazy paving
This home is awaiting completion of some landscaping and external infrastructure, however inside is ready-to-go making this the perfect time to get in early and snap up this amazing opportunity while it is still available.
Contact Exclusive Marketing Agent Collette Rowston from Raine & Horne Atherton on 0419 733 712to arrange your inspection.
188 Rockley Road, ATHERTON Offers Over $899,000.00
EXCLUSIVE to Collette Rowston Raine & Horne Atherton 0419 733 712
THIS recently renovated and extended property perfectly balances contemporary living while maintaining its country feel.
This inviting four-bedroom, two-bathroom brick home with additional one bedroom granny flat, has undergone updates throughout, offering an ideal setting for families or anyone seeking comfortable and stylish living.
The main home features four spacious bedrooms de-
signed for comfort, providing ample space for relaxation and rest. The two living areas offer flexibility to all the family and guest with the main living area feature being the built-in fireplace for those cooler winter months.
friendly neighbourhood, close to schools, shops, and parks, this property provides everything you need for a convenient and fulfilling lifestyle.
Property Features:
• 5,725m2 (app 1.4 acres)
• 4
The modern bathrooms ensure no morning rush-hour traffic, adding convenience to your daily routine. The addition of an alfresco timber deck area creates a seamless indoor-outdoor flow, perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet evening meal while overlooking the tranquil pond.
The alfresco area steps down to a large permanent pond and flat grassed area with established gardens and veggie patch. The onebedroom granny flat / studio has been thoughtfully placed offering flexibility for guests, home office, or teenager’s retreat with its own kitchenet.
With room for at least two cars in the lockup garage offstreet and on the driveway, parking is never an issue for you or your visitors. Located in the quiet and family
NESTLED on a spacious block just a stone’s throw away from Malanda’s picturesque township, this traditional Queenslander exudes timeless appeal. Its double-story design offers a unique advantage, allowing you to make the most of the space beneath the home while relishing the elevated living quarters that capture refreshing breezes and scenic views of the backyard.
Convenience is key with this property, as it boasts proximity to both Primary and High schools, making it an ideal choice for families seeking a serene country lifestyle without compromising on amenities.
Key Features:
• 3 bedrooms, including a generous sized master, all equipped with built-in wardrobes
• Open plan living and dining
• Well equipped kitchen with ample storage and a build in pantry
• Bath in bathroom, separate toilet
• Tongue and groove walls adding to the character and charm
• Airconditioning and ceiling fans throughout
• Security screens throughout
• Expansive backyard, fully fenced
• Garden shed
• Underneath the house is fully enclosed
Call Exclusive Agent Janine Rielly today on 0407 032 422 for a private inspection, alternatively you are welcome to join one of our scheduled Open Homes.
removal & relocation • Within walking distance to Coles shopping Centre & Mareeba CBD A land parcel of this size can offer the opportunity of a mul-
of development prospects…don’t delay! For further information or to arrange a private inspection please call Joe
cancy rate in Mareeba Shire
• House highly sought after
Address: Price: Agent: Contact: 7 Lions Street MALANDA $369,000
EXCLUSIVE to Janine Rielly Elders Real Estate Tablelands 0407 032 422
21. A rapping sound (3-1-4)
24. A specially designed harbour with moorings for pleasure yachts and small boats. (6)
26. A live audio or audiovisual meeting with two or more participants. (15)
DOWN
1. Inflict a penalty or sanction on (someone) as retribution for an offence (6)
2. Money or food given to poor people. (4)
3. The inability to voluntarily move the lower parts of the body. (10)
4. Weapons (4)
5. Impartial and just, without favouritism or discrimination (4)
6. (of organic matter) become liquid, typically during decomposition. (10)
7. Someone who enjoys riotous drinking. (8)
ACROSS
8. A road with a dividing strip between the traffic in opposite directions and usually two or more lanes in each direction. (4,11)
9. An oppressive or unpleasant atmosphere which surrounds or emanates from something. (6)
10. Servitor (8)
12. A sweet or savoury dish made as a smooth, light mass in which the main ingredient is whipped with cream and egg white. (9,6)
16. A business or manufacturing activity carried on in people’s homes. (7,8)
18. A lethal game of chance in which a player places a single round in a revolver, spins the cylinder and shoots at ones temple (7,8)
You should consider attending lectures that will broaden your awareness. An old love interest may surface if you frequent places that you both used to go. Be primed to use your intellect in order to get what you want. Your lucky day is Wednesday.
A change of attitude has probably disrupted your home environment. This is not the best time to take a risk, to gamble or spend money. Ignore colleagues who are going in circles. Friendships will be ruined if you let too many people get involved. Your lucky day is Thursday.
Don’t get depressed, get busy. You can accomplish a lot if you’re willing to put in a little extra time. You will have the ability to capture the interest of others. Don’t jump too quickly regarding an investment that appears to be good. Your lucky day is Thursday.
Realize that you don’t have to do everything yourself. Don’t let others put unreasonable demands on you. You need a job with more responsibility and a higher wage. Equilibrium in your romantic life is likely if you treat your partner well. Your lucky day is Wednesday.
11. The day or period of time immediately before an event or occasion. (3)
13. A city that with its surrounding territory forms an independent state. (4-6)
14. A person who always makes an effort, however unsuccessful they may be. (5)
15. The middle part of summer. (10)
17. Discharge of ova or ovules from the ovary. (8)
19. A fruit consisting of a hard or tough shell around an edible kernel. (3)
20. A person who is employed to tan animal hides. (6) 22. Soon; shortly. (4)
23. Protected from or not exposed to danger or risk; not likely to be harmed or lost. (4)
25. A small circular band, (4)
Problems with skin, bones, or teeth may mess up your schedule.
You will feel better about yourself and you may also meet potential lovers.
You need to fulfill your needs and pre sent your talents. Your sensitive nature will allow others to read you well. Your lucky day is Thursday.
Changes in your domestic situation will prove to be favourable. Be careful not to get involved in other people’s personal affairs. Hard work will payoff if you refrain from expressing your opinion to superiors. Try not to take everything so seriously. Your lucky day is Monday.
You can get ready to celebrate your new direction. Get out and experience the spice of life. Keep the promises you’ve made or you can expect to be in the doghouse. Your words will be taken out of context if you’re evasive with coworkers or employers. Your lucky day is Saturday.
Don’t let your partner goad you into wearing your heart on your sleeve. You can make progress with the right individuals. It’s time to reevaluate your own motives. You will find social activities enjoyable and will promote new connections. Your lucky day is Saturday.
Your high energy, original ideas, and excellent memory will aid your accomplishments. Your attitudes at work will open new avenues for you. Spend a quiet day with the one you love. Creative endeavours will give you somewhat of an outlet. Your lucky day is Sunday.
Be prepared to encounter new friendships that will provide you with valuable information. You are best not to say too much to colleagues. Travel will initiate new friendships. Changes in your home may be alarming at first. Your lucky day this week will be Monday.
Don’t invest too much of your own money. You can accomplish a lot if you put some effort into household duties or redecorating. Be aware of deception when it comes to your position, and be sure not to jump to conclusions. Your lucky day is Saturday.
Don’t let jealous friends put you down, making you insecure about your capabilities. You should get involved with activities that can be enjoyed by both young and old alike. Work quietly on your own. Dead end projects could plague you. Your lucky day this week will be Monday.
NILSEN, Gordon
PRESBYTERIANS meet in Mareeba for worship each Sunday 10am, QCWA Hall, Wilkes Street (behind Meals on Wheels) ALL WELCOME!
Late of Malanda. Passed away peacefully on the 2nd of August, 2024. Aged 81 years.
Cherished Father of Donna and Karren (Dec.).
Loved Friend of the Malanda community.
In keeping with Gordon’s wishes, a private cremation will take place.
Guilfoyle Funeral Services
Chapels, Crematorium & Memorial Gardens
Atherton: 4091 2147 Mareeba: 4092 1013
IN LOVING MEMORY OF BIRD, Dianna “Di” Joan
Late of Mareeba. Unexpectedly passed away on the evening of Friday 2nd August, 2024 following a heart attack.
Loving Mother of Danny, Wendy, Wayne and Jenny. Nanna/Nan to Dan, Damien, Timara, Kate, Trevor, Shanae, Luke, Olivia, Sophie, Lucy and their children.
Relatives and friends of Di are respectfully invited to attend her funeral service and wake which is to be held at the Mareeba International Club, 10 Vaughan St, Mareeba on Saturday 17th August, 2024 commencing at 11:30am.
8/10/1929 ~ 13/08/2022
May the winds of heaven blow softly, And whisper in your ear. How much we love and miss you, And wish that you were here. Always in our hearts, Anthony & Tanya, Cathy, Annie and families.
Local Family Owned & “Entrusted for over 70 years” www.guilfoylefunerals.com.au
IN LOVING MEMORY OF RYLES, Albert John
Late of Mareeba. Passed away on the 9th of July, 2024. Aged 95 years.
In keeping with Albert’s wishes, a private cremation has been held.
Guilfoyle Funeral Services
Chapels, Crematorium & Memorial Gardens
Guilfoyle Funeral Services
Chapels, Crematorium & Memorial Gardens
Atherton: 4091 2147 Mareeba: 4092 1013
Local Family Owned & “Entrusted for over 70 years” www.guilfoylefunerals.com.au
IN LOVING MEMORY OF WASON, Raymond
Late of Mareeba. Passed away unexpectedly. Aged 74 years.
Much loved Brother of Fred, Glenis, Marlene, Gail, Maxine (Dec.), Graham (Dec.) and their families. Will be sadly missed by all.
THE FAMILY OF Patricia (Pat) Fossett
Relatives and friends of Raymond are respectfully invited to attend his funeral service which will be held at Mareeba Cemetery graveside on Friday 16 August, 2024 commencing at 10:00am.
Would like to express their gratitude and appreciation towards the staff at Mareeba Hospital for the care and understanding provided to Pat during her time in the hospital. A special mention and thank you to the following medical officers and nursing staff: Doctors Tim, Adrian, Charlie and Oliver for your care and compassion towards Pat and her family and nurses M & M who provided empathy and loving care for our Mother, Grandmother and Great Grandmother at the end of her life.
Atherton: 4091 2147 Mareeba: 4092 1013
Local Family Owned & “Entrusted for over 70 years” www.guilfoylefunerals.com.au
William (Bill) van Mierlo
08.09.1925 ~ 30.07.2024
Loving Husband of Ailsa (Dec.). Father & Father in-Law to Chris & Kate, Heather, Lindsay, Robyn & Greg, Harry & Lisa, Alan & Debbie. Proud Grandfather & Great Grandfather.
Dad grew his last tomatoes at home this year.
Empty seat on the verandah now.
He will be missed by all those who knew him.
A private cremation has taken place, as per Dad’s wishes.
Geoffrey Ross Mammino
Late of Mareeba. Passed away peacefully at home on the 6th of August, 2024.
Loving son of Althea & brother of Jason & Leah. Cherished by family & close friends. A private cremation was held.
Guilfoyle Funeral Services
Chapels, Crematorium & Memorial Gardens
Atherton: 4091 2147 Mareeba: 4092 1013
Local Family Owned & “Entrusted for over 70 years” www.guilfoylefunerals.com.au
VIT, Audrey Catherine
Late of Atherton. Passed away peacefully at Carinya on the 6th of August, 2024. Aged 87 years.
Much loved Wife of Italo (Dec.). Loving Mother and Mother-in-Law of Kevin & Cathy and Carolyn & Colin. Nonna of Kiel, Heidi & Joseph, Holli & Will and Dylan & Jess. Bis Nonna of River, Ezra, Ziggy, Jack, James, Sonny, Cate and Evie.
A special thanks to Doctor Webb, the nursing staff and volunteers at Carinya for all their love and care of Mum.
Family and friends of Audrey are respectfully invited to attend her funeral service, which is to be held at the Mountain View Chapel, Guilfoyle’s Tablelands Crematorium, 3 Nasser Road, Atherton on Thursday 15th August, 2024 commencing at 10:30am.
OUR SINCERE THANKS
The family of Ian Jessop wish to extend our sincere thanks to the Doctors and staff of the Mareeba Hospital, and the Ambulance staff. Your professionalism, care and compassion was greatly appreciated.
Thanks for the kindness, sympathy and support shown to us by relatives, friends and neighbours, following the passing of Ian.
In accordance with Ian’s wishes, a private cremation has taken place.
From Florence Jessop, the Coughlin Family and the Gale Family.
Guilfoyle Funeral Services
Chapels, Crematorium & Memorial Gardens
The family of Renato Dalla Pria would like to thank everyone who visited, phoned, sent cards, sent flowers and attended Renato’s funeral.
Atherton: 4091 2147 Mareeba: 4092 1013 Local Family Owned & “Entrusted for over 70 years” www.guilfoylefunerals.com.au
A special thank you to Dr Sabine Saeidnia and staff at Cairns Hospital for their care of Renato. Maria, Oscar, Paola, Alexa and family.
Part Time (45 hours per fortnight)
Location: Mareeba
This position will play an essential role in providing administrative and financial assistance to project managers and officers. For more information and to apply, go to: gulfsavannahnrm.org/ employment
Applications close: 9am, Monday 26 August, 2024.
We also accept Expressions of Interest for future positions via our website.
Mareeba Community Housing Company is seeking part time Receptionist to work Monday to Thursday, 30 hours per week, in our Mareeba office. Work hours are 8.45am to 4.00pm. The candidate will be highly motivated, organised, committed to quality customer services, high level of written and communication skills, competent in the use of Microsoft suite products. The company offers competitive remuneration packages and benefits to our employees including salary packaging.
Position description and application process is available by contacting the office on 4092 6899 or Email: reception@mchc.org.au
Position closes Thursday 15th August, 2024.
Mareeba Community Housing Company is recruiting for PART TIME HOUSING SUPPORT OFFICERS
We are seeking motivated team members with high level of communication skills, working in our homelessness programs to conduct assertive outreach.
The positions require after hours work 7 days service per week on a roster basis with flexibility. These roles are all fixed term to 30/06/2026.
MCHC offer a supportive workplace culture, training and development opportunities, and attractive salary packaging arrangements. Selection criteria available at: reception@mchc.org.au
Applications close on 6th September, 2024 with immediate start available for the successful applicant/s.
ANIMAL OF THE WEEK
NAME: Charlie DOB: 19.01.24
Lloyd Charles Bradshaw © of Mareeba, Queensland, is not a voluntary transactor in commerce, and is the irrefutable Holder in Due Course of my properties and all associated copyright protected Trade Names since unrebutted lawful Reconveyance to the Land and Soil jurisdiction of Terra Australis also known as the Commonwealth of Australia Public Recorder Number RPP44 63900 05100 36264 02607, Proclamation Date 3 July, 2024.
Thus severing usufruct subjugation ties with the occupying corporate government of Australia in its entirety. Immediately cease and desist any further infringement upon these copyright protected financial instruments and cease and desist misaddressing Lloyd Charles Bradshaw © in fraudulent debased Dog-Latin, GLOSSA.
Mareeba Community Housing Company is seeking 2- and 3-bedroom rental properties in Mareeba for the Community Rent Scheme Program. Properties must be in good condition to meet minimum housing standards. The benefits include guaranteed rents, nil management fees, qualified tradespersons, and professional property management team. Phone 4092 6899 for further details and Lessor’s packages.
NOTIFICATION OF NIGHT WORKS AT THE BYRNES STREET AND LLOYD STREET INTERSECTION, MAREEBA
9 August 2024
Mareeba Shire Council wishes to advise residents of a planned one lane closure at the Byrnes Street and Lloyd Street intersection in Mareeba to install a new water main.
Traffic control will be in place on the northern end of Byrnes St for two (2) nights on 19 August to 20 August 2024.
We would like to thank residents for their patience. For more information, please contact Council on 1300 308 461.
Atherton RSL Sub Branch will be holding a service at the Memorial Park, Main Street, Atherton commencing 11.00am, Sunday 18 August to commemorate Vietnam Veteran’s Day. Members, Guests and the Public are invited to attend and lay a wreath. Following the service, all are welcome to join the RSL Members and families at the Atherton Hotel.
General Enquires to the Secretary John Mudge MBE Mob 0427 056 361
REPLACEMENT OF SECURITY FENCING AT MT SURPRISE AND EINASLEIGH AIRSTRIP
Etheridge Shire Council invites tenders from suitably qualified tenderers for replacement of security fencings in Mount Surprise and Einasleigh Air Strips.
It is a requirement of this project that any persons contracted to undertake the building work be accredited under the Work Health and Safety Accreditation Scheme, established by the Building and Construction Industry (Improving Productivity) Act 2016, at the time of entering into the contract for the building work and maintains accreditation while the building work is being carried out. Tender documentation (including map) may be obtained from Council website.
Tenders must be emailed to: tender@etheridge.qld.gov.au By 3.00pm on 30th August, 2024
Council reserves the right to invite all tenderers to change their tenders to take account of a change in the tender specification.
All queries with reference to the Tender must be emailed to Tender@etheridge.qld.gov.au.
Neil Gregory Bradshaw © of Mareeba, Queensland, is not a voluntary transactor in commerce, and is the irrefutable Holder in Due Course of my properties and all associated copyright protected Trade Names since unrebutted lawful Reconveyance to the Land and Soil jurisdiction of Terra Australis also known as the Commonwealth of Australia Public Recording Number RPP44 63900 05100 29014 83607, Proclamation Date 6 August, 2024.
Thus severing usufruct subjugation ties with the occupying corporate government of Australia in its entirety.
Immediately cease and desist any further infringement upon these copyright protected financial instruments and cease and desist misaddressing Neil Gregory Bradshaw © in fraudulent debased Dog-Latin, GLOSSA.
Charlie is affectionate and charming. She’s great with children, cats and other dogs. She has undergone thorough Vet checks including; Vax, De-sexed & Micro-chipped. Her adoption fee is $330.
BREED: Bull Arab x Mastiff EFTPOS Available
If you would like to meet Charlie- please call 0487 430 443.
Women’s 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
PLENTY of action was delivered to the good crowd that gathered on Saturday for the annual Mt Carbine Bull and Bronc Ride.
Affiliated with the Central Rodeo Cowboys Association, the event attracts the best of bull and bronc riders from across the region, who compete in the Open Bull ride, as well as Novice, Junior and Mini bull categories, Open, Bushman’s, Novice and Junior Saddle Bronc, calf ride and juvenile steer categories.
There was $16,000 in prize money up for grabs this year but unfortunately, no one was able to take out the Open Bull or Feature Bull categories.
The Junior Bull category was taken out by Josh Snell, who is heading off to the United States early next month to compete in the International Miniature Bullriding world finals in Utah.
Jaihric Ford came second in the category.
In the Steer Scruffing, first place went to Blake Green.
The Novice saddle bronc category went to Dan O’Connor, followed by Benjamin Heap.
Kyle Adams picked up the Bushman’s Saddle Bronc title, while Dan O’Connor won the Open Saddle Bronc category.
In the Novice Bull Ride, Clive Bowen took victory, followed by Thomas Jones and Scott Binnie.
YOUNG Mareeba cowboy Josh Snell is heading off to America to compete in the International Miniature Bullriding world finals.
The event boasts young cowboys and cowgirls from all corners of the globe to compete head-to-head for the title of World Champion.
The event is hosted by the International Miniature Bullriders Association (IMBA) and will take place at the Golden Spike Arena in Ogden, Utah from 3-7 September.
Josh was invited to America after competing in a series of Ruff Tuff bull rides run by the Borghero Mini Buckers, who are an Australian stock contractor for the IMBA.
He has been riding at rodeos for 10 years and got on his first poddy at just five years old.
He will be travelling to the States with Cairns cowboy and best mate, Caleb Sheahan.
“My ex-stepfather put me on my first poddy and my love for the sport grew from there, it’s just become a passion now,” Josh said.
“I love the adrenaline that it gives, from behind the chutes to on the beast, it gets the blood pumping.
“And I’m really looking forward to the experience of being in a new country and making memories beside my best mate, Caleb.
“When I first found out I was selected I was shocked, it didn’t seem real reading the invitation but after that I was pretty happy.”
Josh will need to raise $6,000 in order to make his bull riding dreams a reality.
His family are doing all they can to raise enough money, if you wish to help this young cowboy, contact his mother, Teegan, on 0447 835 040.
“I love the adrenaline that it gives, from behind the chutes to on the beast, it gets the blood pumping.”
THE Mareeba Gladiator’s U19’s team will be competing in the first game of the minor semi-finals this Saturday at 11am.
Currently in third position on the ladder, the young Gladiator’s will be off to the Ivanhoe’s Smithfield Sporting Complex on Saturday to play against the Tully Tigers.
Looking to keep their finals hopes alive, this game is a mustwin for the U19’s in order to progress through to the major semi-finals the following week, where they will play the winner of the Innisfail Leprechauns and Edmonton Storm match.
Mareeba’s reserve grade produced an impressive win Saturday afternoon against the Mossman Sharks at Davies Park.
It was a high scoring game that saw the Gladiators score eight tries to Mossman’s five, settling a score of 44-28 at fulltime.
Gladiators coach and player Steven Murador scored the first try of the game and kicked four from four conversions in the first half and centre Nikolau Tokainavatu scored twice.
The Gladiator’s A Grade lost by 10 points to the Mossman Sharks on Saturday night in what was another high scoring game that saw 14 tries in total scored.
After being down 16-28 at halftime, both teams came back out and scored another three tries each to determine a final score of 32-42.
Mareeba prop Gabriel Tunimakubu scored a double for the night and five-eighth Noah Blooranta kicked four conversions from six attempts.
THE men’s Bulls soccer team is still in with a swing at the top four despite a disappointing nil-all draw in a home game against the Tigers on Saturday.
Not so for the women’s side which lost 5-nil to Edgehill on Friday night putting them out of this FQPL Far North & Gulf season’s finals.
“The pressure of the game got the best of us,” Coach Christian Mukadi said. “It was a very important game which we needed to make the top four. It was disappointing.”
Despite the finish, Christian said he was extremely proud of the women’s side for getting so close.
“We had some ups and downs to begin the season; players getting used to each other, but this team has become strong and will continue to grow.”
The men’s fortunes were a reversal, but the pressure is now on after a no-points match.
“We really need the three points each for the next two games to get into the semis,” Captain Adrian Madrid said, after the clash on Saturday night in Mareeba, which he described as “fiery”.
“They definitely were playing for at least a draw.”
Despite the pushing and shoving in what was a defensive game (the Tigers received two red cards, and the Bulls two yellow in the last 20 minutes of the game), Adrian said his side had deserved a win.
“Our back line was solid, we didn’t let them in too much,” he said.
As for the next two rounds, the team was more determined than ever.
“We haven’t lost a match in our last four or five,” Adiran said. “We have the momentum, we’re ready.”
The Bulls will play Marlin Coast Rangers at Pennell Field, Trinity Beach, on 17 August at 7pm.
The second crucial match against the Stratford Dolphins is a catch-up game to be held on 24 August at the Nick Brko Field, at a time to be confirmed.
‘King’ notches up
MAREEBA’S “King of Kerribee” Brodie Davis took on a top field at the 2024 Thunder in the Canefields in Cairns at the weekend and came away the winner by just one point. Davis was just crowned the King of
GRAND Final day at Malanda Showgrounds proved to be a thrilling encounter for the under 14s Eacham Junior Rugby League on Saturday in a closely fought win by the home side against Ravenshoe’s Tigers.
In a nail-biting match, held at 2pm, the Malanda Eels won the tussle 20 to 16 in front of a vocal crowd. But the Under 16s Ravenshoe boys turned the tide with a convincing 30-10 win against Malanda in the following game played at 4pm.
GOOD news for local ladies with a love for cricket who are looking to find like-minded women and have a lot of fun.
This year’s Lacy Bra Cup will be returning this Sunday for a fun and fast five weeks.
With the season continuing until 22 September, it’s a surefire way for local women of all ages to get involved in the community, make great friend-
ships and enjoy their passion for cricket.
The Mareeba Cricket Club is offering a $20 discount voucher for the first 30 school-age students that register and are new to the competition. This is open to students across the Tablelands, meaning the only cost for the five weeks is a $16.50 insurance fee.
The Cup will be held at Firth
Park, Mareeba, and the event organiser Trish Spry will have all equipment supplied.
There is no experience needed and it’s promised to be a fun, light-hearted environment to learn the game.
For more information find the Lacy Bra Cup on Facebook or contact Trish on 0466 809 987 to get the link to register and your voucher code.
TWO young Tablelands boys have been given a chance of a lifetime to play at the highest levels of rugby league, with the Gold Coast Titans selecting them to take part in a junior pathway program.
Jonty Coutts and Sam Fahlstrom were offered three-year contracts into the junior’s pathway program for the Gold Coast NRL team after representing Peninsula at the State Rugby League Championships earlier this year.
This newfound opportunity will require the boys to relocate to Central Queensland where they will attend the Rockhampton Grammar School, which forged a partnership with the Titans at the beginning of the year to scout and develop young rugby league players from all over Queensland.
Jonty and Sam will then travel to the Gold Coast multiple times a year to participate in the development sessions, camps and games.
Sam Fahlstrom attends Grade 10 at Atherton State High School and lives on his family’s avocado farm in Tolga. Playing in the front row position, Sam is a passionate rugby league player and is very grateful for the opportunity he’s been presented with.
“I’ve been passionate about rugby league since a young age and having this pathway opportunity is the journey I’m willing to work hard at,” Sam said.
“It was a very proud moment for me and my family when we found out.
“We can’t thank the Gold Coast Titans and Rockhampton Grammar enough for being offered this amazing opportunity.
“I’m really looking forward to being able to hone in on my skills and be the best I can be.
“I’m excited and grateful about this opportunity and to share the journey with Jonty is awesome.”
SPORTING and active recreational organisations can now apply for grants to assist with repairs needed after the extreme weather experienced last wet season.
The Federal and State Government’s $14.8 million Sport and Recreation Community Facilities Recovery Program is boosting support for eligible
sport and active recreation organisations and local governments hardest hit by ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper and associated rainfall.
Opening today, the Sport and Recreation Recovery Grant provides eligible organisations with funding between $20,000 and up to $1 million to assist with clean-up efforts, repair or replacement of
equipment and facilities directly damaged by these disasters.
Mareeba and Tablelands local government areas are two of eight that are eligible for the grants.
Applicants are encouraged to visit www.qld.gov. au/recreation/sports/funding/sport-and-recreationrecovery-grant and check their eligibility.
THE Atherton Senior Roosters are through to the finals of the FNQ Senior Rugby League first grade competition after finishing the regular season with a 30-22 win over the Edmonton Storm on Sunday.
The top six count for the coming finals series is headed by Brothers on 34 points followed by Ivanhoes 26, Innisfail 26, Kangaroos 24, Atherton 23, Yarrabah 20.
On Sunday, the Roosters and Edmonton traded tries in the first half, with the Storm drawing first blood, crossing the line after only five minutes.
The Roosters replied quickly to level the score, and after an action-filled 40 minutes, Edmonton led 14-12 at the break.
Trying wet conditions tested both teams in the second half and Edmonton retained their lead 2218 at the 65th minute.
It was Aiden Carson’s try at the 70th minute that pushed the Roosters ahead 24-22 before a try to fullback Jaden Connors off the back of a clever kick and chase sealed the win right on the full-time siren.
Connors also contributed to the scoreline with his five out of five conversions.
The Roosters play fourth-placed Kangaroos in this Saturday’s sudden death semi-final at the Ivanhoes Smithfield Sporting Complex.
The only encounter the Roosters had with the Kangaroos this season ended up in a close 36-32 win for the Atherton side.
Coach Joel Riethmuller remembers it as a bit of a “wild game”.
“We were well up (on the score) and they came back and we ended up getting them on the buzzer in the last 20 seconds. It was one of those games that can give you grey hair,” he said.
Looking forward to this weekend’s match, Riethmuller is confident the Roosters can take it out if they play their best game.
“It doesn’t matter what has happened earlier in the year, we just have to keep winning now,” he said.
“If we can play up to our full potential, I’m confident. If we turn up and play to our standard, we’ll be OK.”
The club is waiting on the outcomes of two reports taken in the Storm match to find out whether those players involved will be playing this weekend.
Riethmuller says the match is being played on neutral territory, and hopes the fans will come down and support the team.
If the Roosters win, they will back up the following weekend for another sudden-death match.
