The Express Newspaper 11 September 2024

Distillery vies for big award

NEXT to names of countries like Barbados, Thailand and Venezuela, the little local town of Walkamin sounds a bit out of place, and rightly so.

But our very own FNQ Rum from Mt Uncle Distillery has been shortlisted alongside other renowned distilleries from those countries for Rum Producer of the Year at the prestigious International Wine and Spirit Competition (IWSC).

The IWSC is renowned for its rigorous judging process, which evaluates spirits based on taste, balance, finish, and value.

“This competition is also known as the ‘Oscars of the Spirits industry’ or it’s like the Olympics in a way, the Rum Producer Trophy is one of the most sought-after accolades,” Mt Uncle’s head distiller Mark Watkins said.

“Being recognised on this level by the IWSC is incredibly rewarding for our team.

“We strive to craft rums that reflect the unique terroir of Far North Queensland, and this nomination reaffirms that our efforts are resonating on the world stage.”

FNQ Rum is the only Australian brand shortlisted for the Rum Producer Trophy, “standing proudly” alongside global giants such as Foursquare Rum USA from Barbados, Sang Som Distillery from Thailand, and Ron Roble Viejo from Venezuela.

“This nomination cements FNQ Rum’s position as a leading force in the global rum industry and is a testament to years of hard work, dedication, and innovation,” Mark said.

FNQ Rum describes its rums as being crafted “from the rich volcanic soils and sugarcane of this unique tropical region” and “produces a range of rums that have been celebrated both

locally and internationally for their distinct flavours and exceptional quality”.

“We use sugar cane nectar to produce a more rich and sweet flavour and then we age the spirit in ex-Australian red wine barrels, so it combines these nice flavours well,” Mark said.

“And we’re situated in a really nice area, the fluctuations in temperature with the hot days and cold nights helps the spirit age really well.”

The Mt Uncle Distillery has also recently started distribution in the UK, adding to their many successes.

This IWSC recognition follows

a stellar year for FNQ Rum, during which it has already secured multiple awards. At the World Rum Awards earlier this year, FNQ Rum took home two gold medals for its Platinum Cane Spirit and Iridium Agave Cask Finish, alongside being named World’s Best Sugarcane Spirit. Additionally, the brand’s commitment to quality was further highlighted with a silver medal at the International Wine and Spirit Competition for its Iridium X Rum. Mark will be travelling to London to attend the awards ceremony on 12 November.

Crackdown on feeding crocs

NEW offences and increased fines have been brought in by the State Government to crack down on feeding and interfering with crocodiles.

Two new offences have been introduced making it unlawful to unintentionally feed a crocodile by discarding food and remaining in close proximity to a crocodile.

Discarding food, including fish frames, scraps and bait, in a way that may attract crocodiles to a public place such as a boat ramp, jetty, pontoon or camping area can now result in an on-the-spot fine of $483 or a maximum court-imposed fine of $6,452.

Knowingly remaining within close proximity to a crocodile that is on, or partly on, land can now result in an on-the-spot fine of $806 or a maximum courtimposed fine of $16,130.

This offence complements the existing “disturbing” offence which prevents people from approaching or pursuing a crocodile or driving a boat or vehicle within 10m of it.

Conservation officers now also have the power to direct people to move away from a crocodile to avoid any potential human-crocodile interactions.

The government has also significantly increased

penalties for existing offences which aim to deter people from engaging in behaviours that pose a serious risk to public safety and animal conservation.

The on-the-spot fine for deliberately disturbing or feeding crocodiles has increased from $483 to $2580, with the maximum court-imposed fine increasing from $6452 to $26,615.

The on-the-spot fine for interfering with a crocodile trap has increased from $645 to $2580, with the maximum court-imposed fine increasing from $19,356 to $26,615.

But State Member for Hill Shane Knuth, who introduced the KAP’s Crocodile Control, Conservation, and Safety Bill 2024 into Parliament last month, slammed the new offences and fines as “nothing more than a band-aid fix”.

“The State Government has failed to manage the crocodile crisis for over a decade, and now it’s completely out of control,” he said.

“Ask anyone who regularly fishes or uses our waterways - they’ll tell you the crocodile population has exploded. “This is a Northern Queensland issue, and it should be managed locally, not from over 1,800 km away in an ivory tower.”

Mt Uncle Distillery Owner and Head Distiller Mark Watkins with FNQ Rum’s awardwinning Iridium X rum.

Mt Carbine tungsten deal critical to world security

By ROBYN HOLMES

TUNGSTEN from a Mt Carbine mine will play an integral role in global security, with the United States moving to secure a supply of the hard metal for products critical to its defence, aerospace, medical, industrial and semiconductor sectors.

With China and Russia the dominant world suppliers of tungsten, EQ Resources’ Mt Carbine mine and its newly-acquired Spanish mine has become critical to the US, with the US Defense Production Act (Title III), now classifying the raw material coming from Australia as “US domestic sources”.

According to EQ Resources operations manager Ryan MacNeill, the move not only strengthens the supply chain, but grants access to substantial US funding programs aimed at bolstering “mission-critical sectors”.

At the same time, EQ Resources, which also owns Wolfram Camp mine near Dimbulah, has entered into a strategic partnership and long-term offtake agreement with Elmet Technologies, the only US-owned and operated tungsten and molybdenum manufacturer.

This collaboration is set to redefine the tungsten supply chain.

“This partnership is of profound geopolitical significance, particularly given that neither the US, Canada, nor the United Kingdom currently have operating tungsten mines,” Mr MacNeill said.

“This agreement fortifies the strategic supply chain between Australia and the US, ensuring resilience in industries crucial to national security, technological advancement, and sustainable energy development.”

As part of the agreement, Elmet is to purchase EQR tungsten concentrate with an estimated value of $30 million (at current market

prices) over a five-year period.

Elmet chief executive officer Peter Anania said the collaboration with EQR would provide its tungsten customers in defence, aerospace, medical, and semiconductor with increased supply-chain resiliency.

“Over the past five years, Elmet and the US Department of Defense have worked together to improve tungsten industrial base resiliency through special government programs,” he said.

“With an increasing focus on critical materials used for defence applications, securing long-term access to high quality tungsten concentrate was a strategic imperative for our business.

“This collaboration with the fastest growing Western tungsten mining group, having active mines in both Australia and Spain, will ensure our ability to support the growing demand for our materials, particularly in the US and Western countries.”

EQR chief executive officer Kevin MacNeill said raw material security had become “a top priority, geopolitically and in many board rooms around the world and investing in sustainable mining in Australia and Spain provides a unique market solution”.

The Mt Carbine operation has been producing tungsten concentrate for the past three years, with around 200 tonnes a month worth around $3.5 million being produced from its open pit.

That equates to around 2500-3500 tonnes of concentrate a year, says Ryan MacNeill, depending on where the ore is being mined from the pit.

“There is about 4-5 years left of open pit mining capability but we want to do the underground (mining development) in parallel because the scoping study showed another 10 years’ worth of tungsten,” he said.

He said the company was also seeking to develop underground operations over the next two years and would also look at how Wolfram Camp could be developed further.

“We will be doing the feasibility of underground for the next 12 months, so within the next 24-36 months, we would ideally be targeting underground operations subject to feasibility and funding,” Mr MacNeill said.

The cost to develop the underground operations would be between $20-40 million and funding for that would come from both the revenue generated by the mine but also potentially from US grants now that the raw material was classified as “US domestic sources”.

“The Defense Force Act opens up additional paths for grant funding, loan funding or various financial mechanisms that help develop critical raw materials that can go into US supply chains,” he said.

Mr MacNeill understood that Elmet Technologies had been the recipient of around $1 billion in US government grants annually.

“So, it’s pretty serious – the US Government is needing tungsten especially because it’s not readily substitutable and is involved in construction, infrastructure, and for the defence industry, it’s critical. The defence consumption has grown by 10% and is the highest growth sector in the past two years,” he said.

“With China controlling 83% of the world’s tungsten, they are still exporting but the western world is heavily reliable on tungsten end products. It’s a challenge for the West not to be reliant on Chinese supply.

“We have seen it recently with rare earths where they have turned off supply and the US is scared that tungsten is next so that’s why it’s critical to secure a Western supply chain.”

EQ Resources Mt Carbine mine has entered into an agreement with the United States to supply tungsten for products critical to its defence, aerospace, medical, industrial and semiconductor sectors.

Mareeba police officers charged with assault

TWO Mareeba police officers have been charged and stood down over an alleged incident that occurred at the Mareeba watchhouse in January.

The charges relate to an incident involving a 23-year-old male prisoner at the watchhouse who was being held for property and assault offences.

A 51-year-old male senior constable has been charged with one count each of deprivation of liberty and assault occasioning bodily harm.

A 43-year-old male senior constable has been charged with one count of assault occasioning bodily harm.

Both members have been suspended from the Queensland Police Service and are expected to appear in the Mareeba Magistrates Court on 2 October.

What to do with water towers

FROM a “decommissioning party” to art murals, the future of Mareeba’s historic water towers is coming up for debate, as the upgrades to the town’s water supply system near completion.

At its recent meeting, council officers advised that the filtration plant was on track and the booster pump stations were ready to come online after the latest pressure testing trial resulted in no water main breaks in the system.

Council officers said the arrival of specialised surge vessels this month would complete the new service which would

provide a uniformed pressure system across all areas of Mareeba, in particular improving southside and some eastern areas.

The historic water towers, which have provided gravity-fed water supply to Mareeba for about a century, will be decommissioned, drained of water and cut off from the system.

The tallest of the towers was approved for construction in 1952 and is 9m higher than the other tower according to a report in a newspaper in April of that year.

The State Government had lent Ma-

reeba £3330 (or $6,474) to “help meet the town’s growing needs”.

“Should we have a decommissioning party, for the tanks?” Deputy Mayor Lenore Wyatt suggested to the meeting.

“It’s a very historical site in our town. The community has a lot of suggestions. We should consider (the towers’) future.”

Council officers told the meeting the water towers remained an asset and were currently leased to mobile phone companies and housed Mareeba’s satellite dish.

Completion of the water network upgrades is programmed for late 2024.

Council backs GBR guardianship

I’m

As

I’ve

SUPPORTING the future of the Great Barrier Reef was the responsibility of all Queensland local governments regardless of location, according to Mareeba Deputy Mayor Cr Lenore Wyatt.

Commenting on Mareeba Shire council’s re-commitment to its Reef Guardian Action Plan 2024–2028 at last month’s meeting, she said there were many actions the council took to “manage the threats to the Great Barrier Reef and support the community in understanding and appreciating the reef’s values”.

“While we do not live right beside the reef, we are committed to taking practical, on-ground action to help,” she said.

Cr Wyatt said that in the past year new Containers for Change public street bins were installed in Kuranda, with a roll-out planned for Dimbulah and Mareeba later this year.

Council now had 11 facilities with onsite solar and

had generated nearly 1.4 million kilowatts of power over the past three years. Current projects included upgrading the Barron River Catchment sewerage infrastructure and preventing leaching at Mareeba pool.

The Reef Guardian plan’s adoption was marked with a timely visit by students from Mt Molloy State School to the meeting, who gave a presentation to council about improving biodiversity on school grounds, with activities such as a kitchen garden, planting native plants, creating more habitats for local wildlife, or introducing bee hive garden programs.

The Year 5 students, identified as high potential learners, are part of the Gifted Global Green Program 2024, facilitated through Tinaroo and Holloways Beach Environmental Education Centres, which also includes students from Yungaburra State School, Butchers Creek State School, and Port Douglas State School.

Students and teachers from Mt Molloy with councillors at the Mareeba Shire chambers after their recent presentation.

Lui petitions State on hospital

By ANDREE STEPHENS

IN a surprise move, the Member for Cook Cynthia Lui has launched a petition to her own government calling for action to upgrade the Mareeba Hospital Emergency Department.

Ms Lui is calling on Minister for Health, Mental Health, Ambulance Services and Minister for Women Shannon Fentiman to fund a major uplift to the Emergency Department to keep pace with a growing population and ensure the community has access to the latest models of care.

“We need to deliver a world-class facility that matches the excellent service provided by the hardworking health workers at Mareeba Hospital,” she said.

“On my recent visits to the hospital, staff have highlighted upgrades, changes and innovative ideas that would improve the patient experience, care, and their working environment.

“One particular area I continue to hear about is the Emergency Department and I’m determined to listen to these staff and act.”

The hospital, which has been serving the Mareeba community for 80 years, was recently accused of having a lack of pressure mattresses for elderly patients, as well as other issues over supply and conditions for staff. The Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service (CHHHS) rejected the claims.

But the rumour mill surrounding the hospital has gathered speed in the countdown to the State election, with claims of a major business case in the hands of the government.

It is understood $100 million may be earmarked for a new Emergency Department, Pathology Unit, and Dialysis Unit, among other improvements. The CHHHS had not responded to inquiries from The Express

Ms Lui also did not confirm a business case

existed but understands a Joint Regional Needs Assessment is underway between CHHHS and the Northern Queensland Primary Health Network.

LNP candidate David Kempton said if a business case was being circulated, it should be “brought to the table” for open discussion.

“The LNP is committed to first-class health services in Queensland and would be interested to respond to such a document,” he said.

Ms Lui said approximately 2,000 emergency department presentations were managed at the hospital each month, and a raft of medical and community health services were delivered from the building.

Since 2020, the government has invested more than $6.2 million in the Mareeba Hospital, including the $2.9 million medical imaging department extension, a $950,000 refurbishment of the operating theatre, and the recently completed

Retail knife law

RETAILERS will now be liable for the unlawful sale of knives to minors, after new laws came into effect on 1 September.

The new laws come as an expansion to Jack’s Law commences, authorising metal detection wanding operations in new locations.

The new retail laws have banned the sale of knives to anyone under 18 and also require clear signage to be displayed regarding age restricted items.

The laws also require retailers to securely store particular controlled items such as double-edged knives, machetes, tomahawks and axes.

Retailers who break the new laws and sell a knife or controlled item to a minor risk up to 420 penalty units, or a fine of up to $67,746.

In a joint effort, the QPS has partnered with National Retail Association to visit more than 1,300 retailers across Queensland since April, to provide support ahead of the laws coming into effect.

$425,000 upgrade to the palliative care area.

It was now time to “uplift to the Emergency Department to meet the needs of the growing community”, Ms Lui said.

“I am fighting for Mareeba and talking to the Minister to highlight the community’s needs and concerns.”

This is the second petition Ms Lui has created this year on behalf of the community, the first calling on a better freight subsidy for FNQ. The move is designed to provide a collective voice on issues the community feels strongly about.

“I have put together this petition to allow residents to amplify the message to Minister Fentiman, sharing their stories and their experiences to highlight the need for further investment in Mareeba Hospital.”

To sign the petition, go to https:// form.123formbuilder.com/6726845/mareebahospital-upgrade-petition

LOCAL legend Dick Daley has finally decided to hang up his infamous blue overalls once and for all, nonetheless he reassured that he’s “still got plenty to do”.

The 94 year-old local has been taking care of his customers out of his small BP service station in Tolga since 1964 and when talking about his retirement last Monday, he said bittersweetly that “it just had to be done”.

“Well, I had the right buyer and I think I was the right age.

“But I’ve still got plenty to do, I’ve got two farms and a dog.

“It was a tough decision, one lady was crying on my shoulder about me going but I said it’s better for me to walk out of here than collapse one day.

“It’s hard to say goodbye to the customers, I know that they’ve been coming here for years and years but it just had to be done,” Dick said.

Dick began his career in the mechanical industry in 1946 and since 1964 he has dedicated 60 years of his life to Daley’s Garage in the heart of Tolga, in which he received a plaque from BP and Lowes Petroleum earlier this year in honour of his dedication to the industry.

In 2016 he made the decision to put the tools down and was content to fuel up cars for locals and travelers passing through, until last week when he decided his long-time service in the workforce was plenty enough for him.

The service station will now be run by local, Shaun Baty.

Senator visits Hill

SENATOR Matt Canavan vis-

ited the southern Tablelands last week, travelling around the area with LNP candidate for Hill Cameron McCollum and talking to locals about issues affecting them.

During the tour, Senator Canavan and Mr McCollum met with Ravenshoe community members to congratulate them on their success in stopping the proposed Chalumbin industrial wind power project.

The Senator noted that projects of this nature had lost their social licence, were harmful to the environment, divided communities, and contributed to cost-of-living crisis.

Senator Canavan pointed out that despite claims of “renewables are the cheapest form of energy,” rising power bills clearly demonstrated that was not the case.

Mr McCollum and Senator Canavan also attended an afternoon tea with representatives from the agricultural sector,

with discussions focused on the productivity and cost impacts of over-regulation and the risk that the Labor Party might again sacrifice the live export industry for inner-city votes.

Senator Canavan also highlighted the threat posed by the EU’s new beef import regulations, which could set a precedent for EU laws influencing Australian trade and undermining Australian sovereignty, by extending their expectations on how land should be used to other nations, in what has been described as “Carbon Colonialism”.

Finally, Senator Canavan was the keynote speaker at a well-attended dinner in Atherton.

Topics ranged from defence to principles of freedom and individual rights, with a focus on the cost of living and the strategic implications for our security and economy if Australia did not change course in the upcoming elections.

Culverts to be replaced

MORE than $2 million has been approved for works to repair Emerald End Road and Carmen Road following major damage after the Cyclone Jasper flooding in December last year.

Mareeba Shire Council approved a $1.413 million tender by Terranovus Civil for the Emerald End Road culvert and $725,251 for the Carmen Road culvert construction.

Both projects were identified for Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements flowing the floods, and now await Queensland Re-

construction Authority final approval.

At the time of the floods, steel culverts on sections of both roads suffered catastrophic failure, cutting off access community access and requiring council to establish an emergency bypass track.

The approved works will involve installing new culvert structures for both roads, reinstating the Emerald End Road crossing of Cobra Creek with a two-lane bitumen road pavement, and removing the temporary bypass.

Two years to repair Range Road

Safety upgrades to follow

A NUMBER of safety upgrades for the Kuranda Range Road have been proposed in a new strategy by the State and Federal governments but none of them will be done until repairs to the road have been completed which is expected to take two more years.

Released last week, the strategy proposes creating a large turnaround area that will allow vehicles to change plans if the Range Road is closed, the installation of 10 more Intelligent Transport Systems technology stations along the road, and a concrete median barrier at the bend known as “The Hairpin” to reduce the risk of head-on crashes.

But according to the document, the recovery works required to fix significant damage done to the road during and after Cyclone Jasper in December 2023 will need to be completed before any of the safety upgrades can commence. That is estimated to be mid-2026.

The Department of Transport and Main Roads says its priority “is the long-term repair works” of the sections that were damaged, with the project currently in the design phase and, according to the strategy paper, the works will require specialised crews that have extensive experience with slope stabilisation projects.

The recovery works are being jointly funded by both levels of government through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements and is in addition to the upgrade funding, with the Federal Government committing $210 million and the State investing $52.5 million.

Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads Bart Mellish says his government recognises the importance of the Kuranda Range Road.

“Tropical Cyclone Jasper has underlined the importance of safe and resilient roads that connect Cairns and the Tablelands,” he said.

“We have listened to road users and the Australian and Queensland governments have invested to make Kuranda Range Road safer and more resilient.

“While our focus is on the repair works, we are developing a program of treatments at strategic locations where they are most beneficial to reduce the incidence and duration of unplanned closures and to allow road users safe and reliable travel up and down the range.”

Describing the road as a “vital lifeline” to Cairns, Member for Barron River Craig Crawford has welcomed the news.

“Kuranda Range Road is a vital lifeline to Cairns for everyone travelling to and from Kuranda, the Atherton Tablelands and beyond.

“Every road user wants it to be as safe and efficient as possible.

“Some other works may include guardrail, shoulder widening, centre line treatments, vegetation management and slope stability treatments.

“I’m assured that TMR’s priority on Kuranda Range Road is the long-term repair works of the sections damaged by the massive flooding in postTropical Cyclone Jasper.”

The strategy document, which was completed in July, states that around 9000 vehicles now use the range road every day, but only briefly refers to an alternative route from the Northern Tablelands to Cairns.

Despite acknowledging that the community has made it clear it favours an alternative road, the document does not indicate any support for another route – instead stating only that: “While there are clear challenges with safety and resilience on the Kuranda Range Road, capacity is not an issue.”

It also rules out any need for two lanes in each direction, saying current modelling indicated that one lane in each direction was “sufficient for traffic volumes and expected traffic volumes up to 2051”.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Bart Mellish (left) and Member for Barron River Craig Crawford talk about future safety upgrades for the Kuranda Range Road.

Swiney takes RFS to next level

This week, we meet two remarkable woman as part of our series on local firefighters who are sharing their stories as the Queensland Fire Department enters its busiest time of the year.

AT the scene of a fire, Chloe Swiney is there leading her team with strength and determination, serving as the Acting Inspector and Manager of Bushfire Mitigation with the Rural Fire Service (RFS).

Her primary role is serving as a First Nations bushfire mitigation officer, where she has been a key member of the RFS for the past five years.

Chloe’s inspiration to join the RFS was driven by a simple yet profound desire – to help her community.

In her role, Chloe assists the community in bushfire mitigation, a responsibility she does not take lightly.

“In my role I assist the community in bushfire mitigation. I believe this has a big

impact on the community in preparing for bushfire season,” she said.

Her time in the RFS has taken her on many journeys, including a memorable trip to California in 2022.

There, Chloe participated in the Karuk Women’s Training Exchange (KTREX), learning traditional burning techniques alongside Indigenous women from around the globe.

This experience broadened her skills and reinforced the significance of traditional knowledge in contemporary fire management.

She also travelled to Canada to combat record-breaking wildfires on a four-week deployment with other wildland firefighters and agencies.

For those contemplating a future as a rural volunteer, Chloe’s advice is straightforward –visit your local rural brigade on a training day.

“(Those wanting to join the RFS) will be able to feel good about themselves helping the community,” she said.

“You will get life skills and training you won’t get elsewhere, and there is so much variety in the service whether operational of administrative or support.

“They will be able to feel good about themselves helping the community. You will get life skills and training you won’t get elsewhere, and there is so much variety in the service whether operational or administrative or support.”

Hayley serves her community

AT just 21 years old, Haylee Haynes has already dedicated four years to serving her community as a volunteer with the Rural Fire Service (RFS).

Her journey into firefighting began with a desire to help her community and learn new skills, a motivation that continues to drive her today.

Meeting members from other brigades and participating in various training ses sions are key motivators for Haylee.

“The training inspires me to want to do more,” she said.

One of Haylee’s most memorable experiences in the RFS was her first fire response.

“I was a little nervous and excited at the same time,” she said.

This blend of emotions marked the beginning of her hands-on jour ney in firefighting, where rigorous training equipped her with the skills to handle real-life emergencies effectively.

fire better and how to control my emotions and how to communicate in stressful situations better,” she said.

Balancing her volunteer responsibilities with personal and professional commitments comes naturally to Haylee.

“I find it easy to do both because I enjoy both equally,” she said.

When she joined the RFS, Haylee received comprehensive training, including Firefighter Minimum Skills (FMS), Bushfire Tactics, and P3 mask training.

“All the training has allowed me to understand

Encouraging others to join the RFS, Haylee cites the experience, training, and connections made along the way.

“For the experience, the training and the people you meet... free pizza and cold burgers,” she joked

Addressing common misconceptions, Haylee clarified that RFS volunteers are not paid to attend fires and do it for their passion.

She also stressed the importance of attracting younger volunteers to the service.

“We need to find a better way to encourage more younger people to join the RFS,” she said.

“We need to let people know that RFS offers nationally accredited training, which is paid for by the service.”

Desperate plea to stop killing the tree-roos

By ROBYN HOLMES

A DESPERATE plea has gone out to motorists on the southern Tablelands to be on alert for the Lumholtz’s tree-kangaroo, with multiple reports of late of the much-loved animals being killed or injured on the roads.

Lumholtz’s tree-kangaroo is only found on the Atherton Tablelands and is classified as near threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.

Dr Karen Coombes of the Tree Roos Rescue and Conservation Centre says the facility is being told of incidences involving the unique animal almost daily and is pleading with motorists to be on the lookout for them.

The centre is currently caring for 16 injured roos and, according to Dr Coombes, the “rescue and recover season” has just begun.

“Every spring and summer, we get multiple calls about tree roos being killed or injured as they are crossing the road – and we don’t even hear about all of them,” she said.

On Sunday, the centre took in a male roo with a fractured arm that will cost the rescue organisation thousands of dollars to remedy.

Recently, there have been documented cases of tree-kangaroos killed near Ravenshoe, Millaa Millaa, and Malanda, with one male killed near the Malanda Visitor Information Centre about a week ago.

“Unfortunately, this happens far too often, it’s just that it is not often made public, but Lumholtz’s tree-kangaroos are hit and killed on our roads,” she said.

“It doesn’t seem to matter if there are speed limits, road signs or speed humps. We have had reports and call outs for tree-kangaroos hit in areas of road

works with bumper to bumper traffic at 40km/h and where there are signs or speed humps.

“We have had several heartbreaking calls and reports of mothers dead on the road and joeys sitting next to them and then the joey being hit while people were trying to rescue them.”

Dr Coombes says lowering the speed limit, especially around the Malanda Falls area, would go some way in trying to reduce the number of treekangaroos hit by vehicles.

“We tried to get the speed limit reduced just down from 60km/h to 50km/h across the bridge and up to Ozcare many years ago - we had support from the caravan park, information centre, Tablelands Vets and Ozcare,” she said.

“I even went and spoke to (Member for Hill) Shane Knuth and he spoke to Main Roads who were not interested.”

Dr Coombes said a lack of knowledge about treekangaroos was contributing to the deaths.

“We all need to be very aware that our wonderful wildlife has no road sense, and as we move into spring and the breeding season, please slow down and look out for wildlife on the Atherton Tablelands but especially driving through rainforest,” she said.

“Lumholtz’s tree-kangaroos are territorial but will cross roads, and many are sight-impaired so their sight can be blurry.

“Contrary to what most people think, they are not nocturnal so motorists need to watch out in the daytime as well as night.

“These beautiful animals are unique to our rainforest of Far North Queensland and we need to take care of them.”

If anyone does hit a tree roo, stop and call the rescue centre on 0427 790 694 or Tablelands Wildlife Rescue on 4091 7767.

WHAT YOU CAN DO TO HELP TREE-ROOS

The Project last week launched a campaign to name the Marsupial of the Year. The Lumholtz’s Tree-Kangaroo is in the Top 21 and, if it gets enough votes, will make it into the Top 10.

If that happens, people who have voted can then learn more about the organisations working to protect these marsupials and donate to support their efforts.

The marsupial who raises the most will become “Marsupial of the Year 2024”. All organisations supporting the Top 10 marsupials will get to keep the money they have raised.

Go to www.marsupialoftheyear.com.au to vote for the tree-kangaroo by 15 September.

“Contrary to what most people think, they are not nocturnal so motorists need to watch out in the daytime as well as night”

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If you think you can add value to our ever expanding team, we want to hear from you!

MAREEBA, CAIRNS HINTERLAND

Figures tell troubling health story

TROUBLING figures released last week show many illnesses among rural, regional and remote Australians could have been prevented or treated better with accessible primary care, thus avoiding the need for hospitalisation.

According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), many parts of rural Australia have higher rates of potentially preventable hospitalisations, highlighting the need for early interventions and ongoing care, particularly for non-communicable diseases.

Unfortunately, Australia’s rural populations, which make up over seven million people, often lack access to such preventive measures.

“We often see rural communities neglecting or putting off their health issues due to limited access to primary care, exacerbated by the tyranny of distance and cost of services,” National Rural Health Alliance chief executive Susi Tegen said.

“This leads to a cascade of problems, including overwhelming an already

strained hospital and emergency system.

“This brings us to consider the need to increase strategic and fit-for-purpose investment in rural health care.

“Given Australia’s annual health spending deficit of $6.55 billion in rural Australia, as discovered through independent research last year, we strongly advocate for greater investment in rural health care for communities, which enable multidisciplinary and place-based solutions according

The healing power of art

By KONNOR FURBER

FROM painting, drawing, journalling and active listening, Carolyn Mundt from InspirexArt is dedicated to helping anyone in need of support.

Carolyn is a qualified Expressive Art Therapist, and her business InspirexArt, offers a “safe and supportive environment” in which individuals who find it difficult to navigate their thoughts and feelings can express themselves through artistic processes.

“Expressive art or art therapy is a good way to understand self and by understanding self we can make better decisions in all areas of our life,” Carolyn said.

“If our cup is empty, we can’t give to others and support others, so it’s important that we look after ourselves in order to care for the ones we love.

“My role as an art therapist is to facilitate and guide individuals through artistic expression in a supportive and safe space. The tools I use through the art processes might be meditation, working with clay, drawing, journalling, watercolours or ink.”

Art therapy is a form of therapeutic practice and can provide individuals the opportunity to express their emotions through a creative and non-verbal process.

The therapeutical process in art therapy focuses an individual on learning to express whatever they may be struggling with and how to process that.

“Art therapy is about helping people articulate what’s going on within themselves, art tells a story and if you

can get something down on paper it actually tells a story that is yours, it’s not anyone else’s.

“And by putting that on paper, myself as an art therapist can explore what’s going on by enquiring into what that may be about.

“Sometimes people can start to feel lonely as the challenges of life become too much for them and that’s a combination of finances, relationships, work and a whole plethora of other things.

“You don’t need to be able to draw well, even just using colour to express your emotions or using a ball of clay and letting your emotions out through that, like anger, hurt or grief, can have a great impact,” she said.

Carolyn started InspirexArt a little over a year ago and has since been working with clients in Mareeba and Cairns. She started this business because she has the desire to make a difference in people’s lives and believes in the therapeutic value of art therapy.

“Becoming an art therapist was a choice driven by the desire to help people, a belief in the therapeutic value of art therapy, also the recognition of the profound impact that creative expression can have on an individual’s mental health and well-being,” she said.

“It can also be an be an added benefit for people who are already seeing a clinical professional.”

For anyone who may be interested in speaking to Carolyn about her services please visit her website www. inspirexart.com.au or email her at inspirexart101@ gmail.com

to needs.

“The Alliance proposes the Primary care Rural Integrated Multidisciplinary Health Services (PRIM-HS) model, which is community-led and co-designed to meet the specific health needs of communities to promote the preventative aspect of health.”

The model is part of a trial being undertaken at Mareeba, thanks to a $1.57 million Federal Government grant.

“The model aims to improve primary healthcare experiences, provide

culturally safe, high-quality care which would become a major contributor to reduce the rates of potentially preventable hospitalisations in rural, regional and remote Australia, with federal and state /territory government partnership,” Ms Tegen said.

“Government funding to support this model would mean more rural primary care practices could continue to exist or be established in rural areas to provide essential care that many metropolitan communities take for granted.”

Carolyn with one of her personal paintings.

Our Council Our Community

Garden Competition

Today is the last day to nominate for the Tablelands Garden Competition! The competition is open to all gardens in the Tablelands Regional Council area and there are categories for every type of garden and gardener including home, new home, rural home, edible, community, commercial and young gardeners.

Get your nominations in by 5pm

TODAY Wednesday 11 September at trc.qld.gov.au/garden-awards and be ready for judging during the week of Monday 16 September.

People’s Choice voting will take place between 3pm Friday 20 and 5pm Tuesday 24 September at trc.qld.gov.au/garden-awards.

Thanks to our sponsors Tableland Garden Group Inc., Tajenka Orchid Gardens, Lakeside Garden Centre, Old Kulara Nursery, Natures Earth FNQ and Ravenshoe Hardware.

Bushfire Ready

Bushfires can cause serious property and infrastructure damage and lead to loss of life, and every property has its own risks. An unprepared property is not only a risk itself but may also present an increased danger to your neighbours, their homes and your community.

Prepare your house and other structures and work with your neighbours to create and maintain firebreaks. Ensure your house number is clearly visible from the road and reflective at night, and that there’s space for fire trucks to access your home. Prepare and maintain a Bushfire Survival Plan and emergency kit.

Reduce fuel loads in high-risk areas to decrease the chance of loss of life and property. Hazard reduction on private property is the landowners responsibility. If a fire starts on your property you are legally responsible for taking all reasonable steps to report the fire and prevent the fire leaving your property.

Keep an eye on media, Queensland Fire Department social media, fire.qld.gov.au/current-incidents and dashboard.trc.qld.gov.au when conditions are hot and dry.

Find out more at fire.qld.gov.au

Rate notices have been issued and payments must to be cleared by Friday 20 September for the 2.5% discount to apply. Get in touch if your notice hasn’t arrived — check your junk mail folder if you receive your notice by email.

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.

Check in if you are making regular payments towards your rates and would like to know if you will be paid up by the due date.

Remember we have concessions for pensioners, not-for-profit organisations and community groups. Find out more at trc.qld.gov.au/rates

Rates Are Due Exhibitors Wanted

The Age-Friendly Expo will be at 9am–1pm Tuesday 15 October at Merriland Hall in Atherton and we are looking for exhibitors to be a part of the event.

If you provide a service, offer activities and social connections for our ageing community, or need more volunteers, then submit an expression of interest via trc.qld.gov.au/seniors-month by 5pm Monday 23 September.

Participation is free.

A great line up of guest speakers and exhibitors from areas like health, legal, ageing well and community and recreational groups have already signed up.

Medical treatment offers new hope

LOCAL community identity Christine Doan hit the “what’s-the-point-of-living” moment just over a year ago.

Her GP was at her wits’ end trying to come up with new and effective treatment to help arrest the depressive spiral the former Olympic equestrianturned-sustainability-and-environment advocate was in.

“I was all but housebound, sometimes dependent on a wheelchair, couldn’t think, could sometimes not even talk, depressed, starved of any energy. Life just wasn’t worth living,” she said.

Yet 12 months on, Christine has had a spectacular about-turn due, she said, to Trans-Cranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) treatment provided in Mareeba. She is now back working with long-time friend Jane Mueller on their PeoplePurposePlace sustainable housing project.

“I was referred by my wonderful Atherton Clinic GP, Danae Cole. She had done everything she

could for me (as did my whole team of non-local, very fancy doctors), but nothing was helping due to the after-effects of a severe concussion 25 years ago,” Christine said.

She had had a fall while doing final dressage preparation for a spot at the Sydney Olympics -hoping to repeat her 1992 Barcelona Olympics selection.

“I knew the day after my fall that everything had changed. As it turned out, I had what they call Acquired Brain Injury (ABI), which takes a long time to turn rancid, but can be devastating,” she said.

The spiral downward in mental and physical health was slow at first but by 2016 it had accelerated. Jane witnessed both Christine’s decline and return to health.

“It was baffling how desperately ill she was and how TMS just turned her health around,” she said. Christine began her daily TMS therapy last

September for six weeks. The treatment involved an electromagnetic coil placed against the scalp which delivered magnetic pulses that stimulate nerve cells in the region of your brain involved in mood control and depression.

She described the process as “little bursts of magnetism, which sound like a woodpecker”. The process lasted about 20 minutes. She began to feel relief within two weeks.

“In essence, my brain was broken and those magical magnetic pulses put it back together again - or gave it what it needed to repair itself to a large degree.”

Christine said the treatment was fully subsidised by Medicare provided a patient met all criteria.

“I hate to think of how many Tablelanders could be helped through their depression/anxiety/ PTSD and don’t know that this service is here in Mareeba,” she said. “I hope my story inspires lo-

cals to open up to new possibilities for improved mental (and, for me, physical) health.”

According to the Black Dog Institute TMS is designed for individuals struggling with treatmentresistant depression or are unable to tolerate medication due to side effects.

Medicare provides funding for an initial course of TMS (35 treatments) and a single course of retreatment (15 treatments). This does not include longer-term maintenance treatment.

To be eligible a patient must be at least 18 years of age; be diagnosed with a major depressive episode; have unsuccessfully trialled at least two different classes of antidepressant medications (unless contraindicated); have also undertaken psychological therapy (unless inappropriate); and have not received TMS treatment previously in either a public or private setting.

The Mareeba Clinic in Byrnes St can be contacted on 07 40197791.

Christine before treatment.

Christine after treatment.

TRC seeks councils’ support for change

SEVEN motions from Tablelands Regional Council will be presented to the annual gathering of local councils throughout the state in October.

Mayor Rod Marti and Deputy Mayor Dave Bilney will attend the Local Government Association of Conference on 21-23 October as well as delegates, while Crs Con Spanos, Kylie Lang and Maree Baade will attend as observers.

The motions to be submitted at the conference are:

1. Resilient and Reliable Communications for Regional Queensland – that the LGAQ advocate for a change in the Mobile Black Spot Funding Program to further incentivise investment in telecommunications infrastructure to improve mobile coverage and competition, to ensure day-to-day communications are resolved, and to consider work required to ensure greater reliability, redundancy and resilience.

2. Disaster Recovery Funding for local governments – that the LGAQ call on the Queensland Reconstruction Authority (QRA) and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to undertake a review of financial and other disaster assistance made available to local governments to ensure improved delivery of counter disaster operations including community recovery initiatives, and that the restoration of essential public assets can commence in a timely manner after a disaster.

3. QRA and NEMA Disaster Recovery Funding for communities – that the LGAQ call on the QRA and NEMA to undertake a review of financial and other disas-

ter assistance to regional Queenslanders to ensure the criteria are sufficiently flexible to enable immediate assistance, and indirect consequences are considered as eligible.

4. High-Priority Groundwater Allocations for town water supply – that the LGAQ call on the Queensland Government to amend water legislation, regulation, plans and protocols to allow allocation of high-priority groundwater entitlements to registered water service providers for town water supply.

5. Local Governments Implementing the Reef 2050 LongTerm Sustainability Plan – that the LGAQ call on the Queensland and Australian governments to support local governments, particularly the Reef Guardian Councils, in their efforts to implement actions under the Reef 2050 Plan through direct funding and capacity building.

6. Queensland Government funding for Local Governments implementing the Reef 2050 Plan – that the LGAQ call on the Queensland Government to match the Australian Government Reef Guardian Councils Program - Activating Local Councils’ Reef Action Plans funding to support implementation of the Reef 2050 Plan.

7. Population Projections –that the LGAQ make representation to the Queensland Government to create a mechanism for population projections provided by the Queensland Treasury to be reviewed in circumstances where a local government considers the population projection to be incorrect.

Timings for fire management

MAREEBA Shire Council is reminding landowners to begin fire safety preparations as early as possible as the weather warms up around the region.

Setting the example, Council had already completed numerous fuel reduction burns across the shire in joint operations with rural fire brigades.

In an update to councillors at the 21 August Ordinary Council meeting, councillors were told fire breaks were created in Mareeba, Mt Molloy, Mt Carbine, Irvinebank, Watsonville and Chillagoe and two hazard reduction burns were completed during July.

“Fuel reduction burns, and the creation of fire breaks form a major component of Council’s fire management strategy and are programmed to occur at the earliest possible time after the wet season when

vegetation is in a condition to be burnt,”

Deputy Mayor Cr Lenore Wyatt said.

“The hazard reduction burns were completed in Mareeba at Adil Road and Hickling Avenue and on the corner of Hastie Road and Emerald End Road, with the second burn a joint effort between Council and the Davies Creek Rural Fire Brigade.

“One burn was carried out by the Mt Carbine Rural Fire Brigade between the Mulligan Highway and Mt Spurgeon Road and Brooklyn Village.

“Additionally, the Watsonville Rural Fire Brigade and the Department of Resources completed a burn at Watsonville and volunteers completed a burn in Chillagoe.”

Cr Wyatt noted many constituents may not know fire breaks were created around

the shire’s smaller towns to keep them safe.

“We just finished doing fire breaks around Mt Molloy, places like Dimbulah, also a lot of work done in Irvinebank, so we do a lot of preparedness work,” she said acknowledging that smaller town residents were aware.

She said the fire council’s Fire Mitigation Plan prepared for disasters by reducing the risk and intensity of bushfires and the potential impact on these communities and infrastructure.

Planned burns also assisted with the ecological health of the shire, promoting the biodiversity and conservation of species and habitats.

“Visit Council’s Emergency Management Dashboard and click on ‘Get Ready’ to learn more,” Cr Wyatt concluded.

Council is well prepared for the fire season with the region suffering significant blazes last year.

ENTERTAINMENT

Head to Karumba for film festival Zumba livens up the library

A NEW film festival is hitting Karumba this weekend, with “The Ocean & Outback Film Festival” set to attract film enthusiasts to the remote town.

The film festival is entirely free to attend and includes an outdoor short film festival on Saturday 14 September in Karumba, kicking off at 6pm with the region’s Indigenous Dance Troupe.

Festival director and well-known Australian actor, Steve Bastoni, says there’s no better place to sit than under the stars, in Australia’s outback and watch a collection of short films.

“We have market and food stalls, the bar at the Recreation Club will open and serve food and drinks and of course, a selection of the best films in Australia,” he said.

“Actor Marcus Graham and Australian personality Tania Zaetta will head to Karumba to form our 2024 judging panel.”

Marcus is known for his work on TV shows “Blue Murder”, “Good Guys Bad Guys”, and “Jack Irish”, and is joined by Bollywood star Tania Zaetta from “Who Dares Wins” and “Fat Pizza”.

On Sunday, 15 September, a free filmmaking workshop will be held at Karumba’s Les Wilson Barramundi Discovery Centre from 10am-2pm.

The public are invited to come along and hear from experts on how to make a short film for future film festivals.

Short films screened at film festival are by invitation only, with 10 short films selected by organisers to be screened on the Saturday night. The films are competing for cash prizes which will be awarded on the night.

In addition to the final 10 films, a special Local Filmmaker category is open to local Gulf of Carpentaria filmmakers with workshops running in schools, equipping students with filmmaking skills to enter their own short film.

A cash prize of $150 will be awarded by our judges to the winning Emerging Filmmaker from the region.

“The festival provides the perfect launching pad for filmmakers, it offers the chance for your film to be seen by the public, the opportunity to network with industry leaders in film and for your work to be recognised,” Steve said.

The Film Festival forms part of the annual Outback By The Sea Festival (September 13-21) which runs over a week and includes live music, film and other entertainment.

“The Ocean & Outback Film Festival will be the opening event to the Outback By The Sea Festival and local film making enthusiasts will have access to a range of workshops and assistance in the lead up to produce their own short film, which will then be shown on the big screen,” said Mayor Bawden from Carpentaria Shire.

Screen Queensland’s CEO, Jacqui Feeney is delighted to support the Ocean & Outback Film Festival through its Screen Culture Fund.

“This is an initiative that not only showcases the talent of our local filmmakers but also enriches the cultural fabric of Queensland’s outback communities. This festival is a testament to the power of film in connecting and inspiring emerging practitioners to tell their stories,” she said.

For more information visit: www.ooff.com.au

DANCE action is coming to the Dimbulah Library next week, with a Zumba Dance Party set to get patrons up and moving.

As part of school holiday activities, Zumba dance expert Debbie Ball will host the party on Tuesday 17 September from 10.30am11.30am.

The event is open to all ages and free of charge.

Bookings are essential so go to https://ow.ly/6Vsw50T78Ws or call the library on 4093 5963.

Country fair fun in Malanda

A FUN community event with rides, raffles, a sideshow alley and a “huge fireworks finale” will be held tonight at the Malanda showgrounds.

The Malanda State School Fete named “Our Country Fair” commences at 4.30pm and finishes at 8.30pm and will require a gold coin donation, or five dollars a family, as an entry fee.

It will have rides, a host of fun games down sideshow alley, a raffle with gift cards to be won valued at $25-$198, performances and entertainment followed by a fireworks finale at the end of the night.

There will also be food vans and coffee at the event. The event is open to all community members.

Volunteers wanted for folk fest

VOLUNTEERS are being sought for the Tablelands Folk Festival to be staged in Yungaburra at the end of October.

Organisers are calling for “more creative decorating crew, friendly door sitters, conscientious happy ticketing and merch desk team, fun and creative children’s fest crew and a responsible tidy team”.

In return for just eight hours of their time over the weekend, volunteers will be rewarded with “plenty of smiles, a weekend ticket with camping, the joy of being part of something great, plus an invitation to the volunteers after-party”.

To apply, go to www.tablelandsfolkfestival.org.au/volunteers

Everyone is invited to head to Karumba this weekend for the Ocean & Outback Film Festival.

ENTERTAINMENT

James Johnston’s favourite festival

AUSSIE country music sensation, with more than 75 million streams and six Number 1 Country Radio Singles in Australia, is excited to come back to Mareeba for one of his favourite country music festivals, Savannah in the Round.

“This is my fourth year playing at Savannah in the Round, it was actually the very first festival I ever played and they’ve had me back every year so it kind of feels like a second home up there,” James said.

“I think it’s a really unique festival, with the way it’s laid out and I think it’s got this really great community feeling about it up there.

“There’s just something about country music festivals, something about the Far North, people are just relaxed, I don’t know it just feels like there’s this little community within the festival.”

James Johnston exploded onto the music scene in 2021 following the release of his debut single Raised Like That, which has since been ARIA Platinum certified, making James the first ever Australian independent country artist to achieve this for a single.

He has an energetic stage presence that always livens up his audience, getting them singing and dancing along to his upbeat country tracks. James is also a talented lyricist and writes all of his songs, whether that be on his own or with others.

He is excited to come back for his fourth appearance at Savannah and sing

to the crowd who he feels has “grown” with him.

“It’s (the festival) been great every year and it’s just gotten bigger and bigger and one of the cool things about Savannah is I feel like they’ve grown with me.

“It was my very first festival and I had one song released and there was probably five people at the front of the stage singing with me and as my career’s grown, I feel like that community up there has grown with me on this journey as well.”

Raised in a small town near Wingham, New South Whales, James grew up living

and breathing the country lifestyle and is one of the reasons he loves performing at the Mareeba festival.

“I think it’s something about country music and small towns, people are friendly and they say g’day to you and they wave when you’re driving down the road.

“Mareeba has the same kind of feeling to where I grew up in Wingham, where people are willing to stop and have a chat and you just don’t get that in the cities.”

His music and his writing reflect his experiences growing up in rural NSW and often illustrates the enjoyment of the little

things in life and the values that smalltown folk hold dear.

“I grew up a young country kid, my folks had the property but they also sold tractors, so a lot of my life was jumping from farm to farm, I was just surrounded by country people and their stories and their values and a lot of that carries through my music.

“I think I pull a lot of my stories from my childhood you know, a lot of my songs that I’ve written like Raised Like That and Country Boys, a lot of these songs are just stories of my childhood.”

In September of last year James released his debut album titled the same as his break-out hit, Raised Like That. The album is Australia’s largest debut country album ever, containing a total of 20 tracks.

During the first six months of his album’s release, it spent 21 weeks at Number 1 on the ARIA Australian Country Albums Chart with 19 of those weeks being consecutively Number 1. It was the Number 3 Australian country album for 2023 even though it was released at the end of September

“I’ve got a new song coming out on 12 September called Blame, which was actually kind of chosen by my fans, I put out three songs on social media to choose from and they decided they liked that one.”

For three unforgettable days of country music, camping, glamping and entertainment hosted at Kerribee Park from 11-13 October, visit www.savannahintheround. com.au

James Johnston is ready to get the Savannah in the Round crowd grooving.

ON LANDthe

Webinar to explain low-cost loans

The

September and will inform producers how RIC’s low-cost Farm Investment Loan can help support farm businesses.

RIC chief executive officer John Howard said RIC’s Farm Investment Loan was aimed at supporting farmers who have experienced significant financial downturn, as a result of an unforeseen disruption or cumulative impacts to their business.

“Our Farm Investment Loan recognises that unexpected business shocks outside a farmer’s control can play havoc with financial plans,” he said.

“With a low variable interest rate and interest-only terms for the first five years, RIC loans can provide some financial relief to help farmers get back on their feet.

“To be eligible for a Farm Investment Loan, farmers need to show their underlying business is solid, but that they need help to recover following an event that has financially impacted their business, like drought or other natural disasters, or even a biosecurity event.

“More than 100 people from across the country have already registered to learn more from our specialist Agri Lending Manager and one of our customers who will share their experience.”

The Farm Investment Loan provides up to $2 million over a 10-year term with the first five years interest only followed by principal and interest for the remaining five years. The current variable interest rate is 5.18% and there are no fees to apply, make extra repayments, or for early loan repayments.

The free webinar is on 18 September from 12pm-1pm. To register visit www.ric.gov.au/events.

A lifeline for the Mossman cane growers

THE beleaguered Mossman Mill has been given a lifeline by the LNP, with leader David Crisafulli announcing last week that, if in elected in October, $12.5 million will be made available to deliver next year’s crop while a longer-term plan can be found to keep the cane industry afloat in the town.

Mr Crisafulli said Labor had made it clear they planned to abandon Mossman’s cane industry “in the hope of finding another untested option”.

Under the funding package, a Crisafulli Government would redirect money allocated by Labor for the shutdown of the cane industry to assist the viability of the mill to improve productivity, transport efficiency or retrofit the mill for future uses.

“Our team’s historic investment will give growers the certainty they need to fertilise and to plan next year’s harvest. It also gives potential buyers of the Mossman Mill confidence that they will have product to crush come the 2026 season and beyond.

“Labor may want to give up on an industry that has employed thousands of locals over many generations that still has so much to give the local economy in the coming decades, but I won’t.

“We will also partner with Canegrowers Queensland to develop an industry led FNQ Cane Expansion Plan.”

meetings with key stakeholders about the mill’s future.

Mr Kempton says he advised the LNP of the importance of the mill to the town and had secured an election commitment to provide support to the mill and the local industry.

“Those who committed their time and resources should be commended,” he said.

Mr Kempton was in Mossman last week with Shadow Minister for Agriculture Tony Perret to provide the detail of the LNP’s investment plan to the community.

“Mossman is a sugar town. Sugar underpins the economy and is in the DNA of its people - people who have worked all their lives in cane,” he said.

A guarantee would also be put in place to ensure next year’s crop could be transported to and harvested at Gordonvale, and failing a new investor coming forth this year, would provide certainty for growers to plan and invest in next year’s crop.

A $500,000 funding package would also be allocated to Canegrowers Queensland to lead new industry development, expansion and increase grower profitability and productivity, bolstering the long-term viability of the local industry.

“My team will not give up on the Mossman Mill that underpins this proud community,” Mr Crisafulli said.

Following the announcement, KAP’s candidate for Cook Duane Amos was quick to criticise the LNP, questioning where the major party was when cane growers and the Mossman community were crying out for help months ago.

“Cane growers and the local community needed support months ago when farmers needed surety before harvesting so they could fertilise and invest in next year’s crop,” he said.

“If the LNP truly cared about Mossman, they would have stepped up then - not at the eleventh hour with strings attached, contingent on winning government.”

But LNP candidate for Cook David Kempton said he had been working behind the scenes for months, holding several

“I commend those who kept fighting when many were on the verge of giving up.

“Sugar prices remain strong and we have farmers expert at producing sugar. The challenge is finding a sustainable balance between the volume of cane able to be produced and the cost of processing. “This plan will give the industry space whilst all options are considered.

“There will be no transition to failure under the LNP, and the town’s future will be determined by its people and elected council, not city consultants or department officials.”

At last week’s meeting were (from left) Australian Cane Farmers Association member Don Murday, Douglas Mayor Lisa Scomazzon, cane grower Bill Phillips Turner, LNP candidate for Cook David Kempton, Mick Ward from MSF Sugar, Shadow Minister for Agriculture Tony Perret and business owner Peter Capp.

ON LANDthe

Clocking off on ‘chasing the watch’

By ANDREE STEPHENS

ON a quiet early morning in the Malanda countryside, a quietly significant moment occurred at the Sartor dairy farm along Glen Allyn Road.

Helen Lodding carried out a final herd recording at the farm, while her mother, Dawn Gaul, kept a watchful eye, as farm owner Eddie Sartor brought his cows in for milking.

The moment signified the end of an era. The Sartor dairy business would be closing after 66 years.

For Eddie, now 60, it was time to “stop chasing the watch”. For Dawn, now 91, it was the end of a herd recording career of 45 years, during which time she carried out 540 of the once-a-month tests.

Her daughter Helen has been conducting the recordings at the farm since Dawn retired three years ago. All up, the cows have been monitored each month for 48 years, or 576 times.

The dairy farm was bought by the Sartors in 1968, and son Eddie took it over with his wife in 2000.

Eddie said the herd tests began in 1976 and were vital in monitoring the health of the cows, and the quality and quantity of the milk.

They were encouraged by the Department of Primary Industry at the time, which once had an office in Malanda, four full-time officers and even a government vet, Eddie said.

“But the government pulled all of them, we’ve got nothing now,” he added.

But testing was maintained, the importance of which could not be stressed, according to Eddie.

The process involves attaching meters to the milking lines, and a certain amount of milk is dripped into a small flask for calibration, he explained. Each flask is carefully identified and dated.

“Basically, the sample provides the base recording which can be calculated to keep a running total of how many litres your cow gives you a month,” Eddie said, providing the math that a cow recording nine litres in the morning and seven in the afternoon gives you 16 litres which multiplied by 30 provides the total.

“They also take a sample bottle which gets sent to laboratories and analyzed for fat, protein and cell count, the whole show,” he said.

“The information gives you which cows are the better to breed from, who gives the best litres, the fat components and protein components.”

Cell count was also important in identifying the number of white blood cells at work in the cow. The more cells, the more infection is being fought. This can warn against mastitis, milk qual-

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ity, infection treatment or any underlying problem with the animal, which can lead to culling and selling.

Eddie said about 75% of dairy farms used to herd test but that number had dropped.

“It’s a long-established practice, but in fact it has probably gone out of favour in recent years because of costs,” he said.

“The dairy industry was deregulated in 2000, and basically it’s been a struggle ever since. If you remember that $1 milk at the supermarkets, it sent many farmers to the wall basically, or they were working for next to nothing.”

Eddie said there were 200 farms in the area in 2000 and now they numbered about 35.

“That’s what deregulation did to this area,” he said.

“Every second farm up here was about dairy. I can remember in the 80s there were about 350 farms.”

The irony now is that FNQ milk is in tight supply, with milk trucked up twice a week to meet demand when production is down.

“In that 90 days and 90 nights of rain we had here, we were really short,” he said. “We were down to 50 per cent of production, it hit the animals so hard.”

Eddie said he is looking forward to a life without milking hours. The property won’t be sold, they’ll keep the land and agist to fellow dairy farmers.

“Dairy farming is a massive commitment, you basically work off that watch, morning and afternoon. You can’t go off and say ‘oh, geez, I don’t feel like it’, whether you’re sick or hungover or whatever,” he said with a laugh.

Even simple family tasks like taking the kids to sports training afternoons were timed so the milking wasn’t missed.

“I’m closing down basically because I’m 60 and I’ve got two kids who went to university and work in Brisbane so they’re not interested in coming back on the farm,” Eddie said.

“I’ll probably have a rest for starters, then I’ll have time to maintain the farm, the fences, the weed spraying.”

Then comes bigger adventures, where the watch is their friend.

“We’ll have time on our hands to get away a bit more,” he mused.

“We’re looking forward to less rushed travelling, possibly buying a caravan, and doing a big trip to places we’ve never been able to visit like South Australia and Western Australia. It will be at a relaxed pace.”

SUGAR REPORT

2024

Crushed: 33.05%

CCS For Week: 12.03

CCS Average To Date: 11.97

An end of an era – (from left) Dawn Gaul, Helen Lodding and Eddie Sartor at the dairy.

MAREEBA - 5 September

FROM face painting, balloon animals, arts and craft, firefighters and other games, kids and families had a blast at last week’s Family Fun Day.

Vocational Partnerships Group (VPG) and Mareeba Community Centre (MCC) hosted the event in order to voice Child Protection Week and make note of local support services available.

The message for National Child Protection Week this year was “Every child, in every community, needs a fair go,” and was supported by the theme “Every Conversation Matters”.

Our Lady of the Chain

MAREEBA - 8 September

Jackson and Zane enjoying the games and sausage sizzle on offer.

Emmily, Meeyah and dad Johnathon having fun at the VPG tent.

Cassy getting beautiful flowers at the face painting stall.

The huge bubbles occupied the kids the whole time.

Ivy poses with her new coloured-pasta necklace.

Malliah was eager to receive her ballon animal from the clown.

Trenton and Jason shooting hoops and enjoying the afternoon.

Procession of Our Lady Of The Chain.

Elio & Maria Aloia. Makse Srhoj and Vince Mete.

Carla and Con Iacutone.

Steven Parker, Lennard Brischetto and John Musso.

Barbara Festa, Sarina Brischetto, Kathy Torrisi, Mary Milne, Mary McCarty and Alba Mete.

Elsie Di Bella, Alfina Iacovella and Santo Gangemi.

Move in ready home in Tolga

EXPERIENCE modern living at its finest in this beautifully presented home in Tolga. Perfectly designed for both comfort and convenience, this nearly-new residence, just 2 years old, offers a contemporary open-plan layout that effortlessly blends style and functionality.

Step inside to find a spacious living area that seamlessly integrates with the din-

ing and kitchen spaces, all tiled throughout for a clean, cohesive look. The modern kitchen is a highlight, featuring sleek cabinetry, including a dishwasher, and ample counter space-ideal for both everyday cooking and entertaining.

The home comprises three generously sized bedrooms, each equipped with built-in robes to maximize

storage. The master suite is complete with a walk-in robe and an ensuite bathroom, providing both privacy and convenience.

Additional features include a double garage with remote access, ensuring secure and easy entry, and side access for added versatility. The property is fully fenced, offering a safe and private environment for fam-

ily activities. The covered patio, complete with blinds, extends your living space outdoors, perfect for enjoying the serene surroundings year-round.

This property offers the perfect blend of modern amenities and a desirable location, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a stylish, low-maintenance lifestyle in Tolga. Don’t miss

• Quality soil and improved pastures

• 40 Meg licence and town water

• Cattle yards and laneway

• Studio home

• 4 Bay lockable shed

$ P.O.A. Morgan Brennan 0407 730 450 houses l land l units l investments l acreage l farms l rentals

PROPERTY

Two Strawberries Cafe and Berry Lane Winery

IN the heart of the Atherton Tablelands, Shaylee Strawberries stands as an iconic destination cherished by locals and visitors alike since its establishment in 1985. This picturesque property boasts not only a thriving “pick your own” strawberry experience but also the delightful “Two Strawberries Café,” where patrons indulge in scrumptious treats overlooking the Strawberry Fields and the Seven Sisters.

Family-owned and operated, the foundations have been laid with no expense spared and all hands-on deck to ensure each visitor experiences the warmth and authenticity that define Shaylee’s Strawberries Boutique Farm values.

This opportunity offers more than just a business; it’s a chance to live the rural dream. For sale on a WIWO basis, the income will com-

mence immediately, and with the strawberry season fast approaching, you won’t want to miss out on the chance to reap the rewards of this year’s crop. Act now and capitalize on the busiest five months of the year between July and November! For the discerning investor seeking both profitability and passion, Shaylee Strawberries presents an unparalleled opportunity.

Highlight of inclusions:

• 11.65HA of Freehold Golden Triangle county.

• Two Strawberries Café 100-pax capacity with food and liquor license. Fully equipped commercial kitchen with top-quality appliances in as-new condition, including Blue Seal 4 Burner Grill and flat plate, custommade return air ducted range hood, combi oven, Stoaddart dishwasher, Carpigiani Soft Serve Machine, and BGI Double Gelato

maker, just to name a few.

• Packing shed with a sixperson packing machine, including all packaging and crates.

• Jam and ice-cream making facilities, including a blast freezer and all intellectual property.

• Recently established “Berry Lane Winery” with all winemaking facilities, including a wine press, bladder press, bottling & capping machine, and wine producer’s license. Currently producing five varieties of strawberry wine.

• Fully lockable Machinery shed with extensive list of plant and equipment, including brand new grow bags and established raised beds. Tractors, sprayer, planter, generator, delivery truck, just to name a few.

• Three-bedroom masonry block residence, fully furnished with a pool.

• Ample Car parking.

SEARCHING for a fantastic family home that ticks all the boxes? 33 Vaughan Street, Mareeba features a great, modern home, a huge shed with living facilities and a close to town location. What more could you want?

There is plenty of room for entertaining family and friends with a modern kitchen situated between the large living room and the dining room that has direct access onto the front patio. All three bedrooms have built-in wardrobes, and the master bedroom has ensuite access to the two-way bathroom.

The shed is a massive 12 x 9m (approx.), with extra height clearance as well, so there is plenty of room for all the toys. Attached to the shed are living facilities, with a kitchenette and living area, a bathroom and toilet, and a patio overlooking a fenced section of the yard.

The 873m2 allotment is fully fenced and is conveniently located close to town and the golf course.

Property Features:

• 3 bedrooms, all with builtin wardrobes

The time has come to hand over the reins to a new owner, with all the major infrastructure investments complete all that is left to do is grow. Currently only planting one bay of strawberries, there is an opportunity to expand production fivefold.

Located 700 meters above sea level with rich red volcanic

• Two-way bathroom, separate toilet

• Modern kitchen, dishwasher

• Large living room, dining room

• Internal laundry, linen cupboard

• Air-cons, tiles & security screens throughout

• Massive shed (12x9m approx.), powered

• Granny flat/office attached to shed

• 873m2 allotment, fully fenced

To find out more or arrange a private inspection contact Exclusive agent Vince Costas on 0419 926 691.

PROPERTY

Stunning acreage Atherton property

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 semienclosed entertaining area, perfect for hosting gatherings.

Second Home:

• Bedroom: Single bedroom with a built-in wardrobe.

• Bathroom/Laundry: Com-

bined bathroom and laundry for convenience.

• Kitchen/Dining: Open-plan kitchen and dining area complete with air conditioning.

• Entertaining Area: A massive, 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 spac es, 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

Outstanding custom-built home

THIS outstanding architecturally designed home is a stunning, private sanctuary. Positioned on 2.47 acres only 7 minutes from Mareeba town centre. The home offers a sophisticated fusion of light & space with multiple living areas overlooking the landscaped gardens to create a true indoor/outdoor living space. Make no mistake, this home is unlike any other on the market in Mareeba today!

Property Features:

• Immaculately presented and maintained with crisp neutral colours and quality fixtures and fittings featuring 5 bedrooms + office, media room and 3 bathrooms

• Substantial 432m2 floor plan with 2.7m high ceilings consisting of a generous central open plan living area leading out via sliding stacker doors to a huge outdoor entertainment area complete with outdoor kitchen and pizza oven - custom designed to bring the outside in

• Fully air-conditioned + beautiful polished porcelain tiles throughout finished with tiled skirtings and chrome trims

• Impressive 2 pac kitchen incorporating soft close drawers, corner pantry, glass splashback, Miele appliances, plumbed in fridge space,

stone bench tops and island bench with stack stone feature and waterfall ends

• Sizeable 6m x 5m carpeted media/lounge room

• 5 generous bedrooms with built-ins – Master with WIR and stunning his and hers ensuite with spa bath, separate 5th bedroom/rumpus with ensuite

• Bathrooms fully tiled to the ceiling + vanities with stone tops, main bathroom with shower and separate plunge bath

• Mirrored built-in robes + tinted windows, blinds and security screens throughout – Crimsafe on all doors

• Huge tiled outdoor entertainment area adjoining the garage able to be opened up to create a massive entertaining area

• Extra-large double

with front and rear garage doors

• Sizeable laundry with builtin cupboards and generous bench space

• Solar hot water + 5kw solar power system

• Tiled footpath surrounds and asphalt driveway

• 10m x 14m powered colorbond shed with insulated roof, 4 roller door access and mezzanine floor

• 47,500L Rainwater tank plumbed into the kitchen

IF you lead a busy life and living in town is important, then put this home in the heart of Atherton at the top of your list.

The brick veneer construction offers timeless appeal combined with low maintenance living for either the owner occupier or tenant. Established gardens and secure privacy fencing create a cool shady outdoor environment which can be enjoyed from either the front deck or rear patio. The home is situated in a quiet street and within easy walking distance to the Atherton central business area.

ing toilet, shower and freestanding claw footed bath

• Generous kitchen with breakfast bar, corner pantry and tiled dining area

• Tiled lounge room with extended 2nd living area

ting area

• Sliding windows with fly mesh throughout plus security screens on the laundry and rear entry doors

• Built-in storage cupboards

• Large internal laundry

• 1500 Litre poly rainwater tank + filtered town water

bathroom and toilet, making it a great space for entertaining or it would be perfect as a granny flat / studio area, with access to the private pool with rock waterfall and your own tropical garden area.

Property Features: • 3 Generous bedrooms + 2 bathrooms • Main bedroom with airconditioning and sitting area

• Main bathroom incorporat-

• Sizeable entertainment area at the rear with slate floor and bar/kitchenette, this area would also be perfect as a granny flat or studio as it has its own bathroom and toilet

• 3m x 3.5m storeroom plus 3 roller doors opening to the in-ground pool and private courtyard gardens

• Very private pool with rock waterfall and tropical garden

• Outdoor timber deck /sit-

• 754m2 allotment with established, low maintenance tropical gardens in a quiet and convenient location with no neighbours on the right-hand side

For more information or to arrange your own private inspection, contact exclusive agent Rino Gava today on 0427 779 086 or email rino@girgentigroup.com

PROPERTY

A beautiful place to visit – An even better place to live

NORMALLY we are expected to choose. To weigh up the pros and cons. Town or rural? No need to choose as here you will find both.

6,000m² of land just minutes’ walk to the centre of Yungaburra with its iconic markets, restaurants, cafes, and Bowls Club.

Situated in a private location at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac, this low maintenance masonry block home has three bedrooms, two bathrooms with front and rear patios.

Wander through the tropical garden, your own lush and leafy haven, down to Peterson Creek with red claw and platypus at your back

Address: Price: Agent:

boundary.

Considered a once in a lifetime opportunity, this property offers astute buyers the rare chance to secure your forever home or weekender in an unrivalled location.

For sale for the first time in more than thirty years. This property is being marketed under Expressions of Interest, consequently a price guide cannot be provided.

Immaculate, elevated home

• Recently refurbished main bathroom with a walk-in shower and vanity unit. Separate toilet.

• Air-conditioned open plan living opening onto the veranda

• Tidy kitchen with electric appliances, breakfast bar, and plenty of storage space.

•

•

• Master bedroom and 4th bedroom both have access

2

carport • 2 x garden/storage sheds

• Rainwater storage tank

• Solar hot water systemSave on those electricity bills!

• Beautiful manicured gardens

• 803m2 allotment, fenced on 3 sides

• Internal laundry with a double sink and a storage cupboard

• Security screens throughout home

• Full length tiled veranda overlooking mountain

For further information or to arrange an inspection, call exclusive agent Raquel at Sommerset Realty.

Expressions of Interest close at 4.00pm on Friday 11th of October 2024. All property inspections are to be conducted by appointment with the marketing agent. Address: Price: Agent: Contact: 4 Centenary Drive, ATHERTON $509,000 EXCLUSIVE to Raquel Cunzolo Sommerset Realty 0408 983 879

Contact: YUNGABURRA EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST Trisha Jackson Professionals Atherton 0419 183 145

located in a quiet street within a short distance to the Atherton Hospital, day care, shopping and medical facilities.

25. Farthest away, or farthest from the centre or from the inside (9)

27. A voucher entitling the holder to a discount off a particular product. (6)

28. A Japanese system of unarmed combat and physical training. (8)

29. The quality of being lively, vivacious, or witty. (6)

30. Not virtuous; not pure (8)

DOWN

1. Reach a place at the end of a journey or a stage in a journey. (6)

2. Gossip idly. (6)

3. Move through the air using wings. (5)

4. A salt or ester occurring in plants, especially spinach, (7)

6. A controversial issue or situation which is awkward to deal with. (3,6)

ACROSS

1. An instance of uncontrollable natural forces in operation. (3,2,3)

5. The state of being in someone’s power, or of having great power over someone. (6)

9. Based on or in accordance with reason or logic. (8)

10. A state of near-unconsciousness or insensibility. (6)

12. Done, given, or acting of one’s own free will. (9)

13. The outlay of money. (5)

14. The hollow jointed stem of a tall grass (4)

16. A type of creosote. (4,3)

G

19. To stay away from school or work when you should be there (4,3)

2. A shape produced by a curve that bends round and crosses itself. (4)

24. A chiefly freshwater fish of the salmon family (5)

7. A natural desire to satisfy a bodily need, especially for food. (8)

8. Archaic term for port (8)

11. Moving or happening at the same time and speed as someone or something else: (4)

15. An argument that gives a stronger reason than one that has already been accepted (1,8)

17. A thing that blocks one’s way or prevents or hinders progress. (8)

18. The practice of giving too much information at the same time, or a piece of writing that does this (8)

20. A person who acts unwisely or imprudently; a silly person. (4)

21. A Baltic language / nationality (7)

22. An offspring of a human or other mammal in the stages of prenatal development (6)

23. Accustom or acclimatize. (6)

26. An Indian king or prince. (5)

Join humanitarian groups and let your leadership ability take over. You will do extremely well if you get involved in competitive activities. Focus, and concentrate on yourself. Trying to deal with your mate will be unproductive and hurtful. Your lucky day is Friday.

You will be drawn to individuals who can provide you with both intellectual conversation and physical passion. Your temper may get the better of you if a colleague has tried to ruin your reputation. Help others solve their dilemmas. Your lucky day is Tuesday.

Face any emotional problems head-on to avoid situations getting out of hand. An older member of your family may have left you with a pressing situation. Don’t evade issues or twist the truth. You are best to get out of the house this week. Your lucky day is Saturday.

Partnerships with creative people could lead to financial gains. Voice your opinions and contribute to the de bate. Children may be on your mind. You need to control your temper and deal with the situation rationally. Your lucky day this week will be Wednesday.

You will be confused about the intentions of someone you work with. You may want to get involved in financial investments. Educational pursuits should help you develop your hobbies. Do not get involved in any uncertain financial deals. Your lucky day is Wednesday.

You can enjoy the company of others and come in contact with an ideal mate, if you get out and mingle. Your creative ideas will be put to good use if you dig in and do things around the house that will make your family happy. Your lucky day is Wednesday.

If you’re feeling uncertain, spend some time alone and reevaluate your motives. Come to your own conclusions rather than taking the word of someone else. Keep your mind on your work and stay away from situations that could ruin your reputation. Your lucky day is Tuesday.

Look into some form of physical recreation. Entertainment could cost you more than you expect. Business or pleasure trips will be knowledgeable as well as highly successful. Your lucky day this week will be Wednesday.

If you can mix business with pleasure much can be accomplished. Try to avoid serious discussions with loved ones. Expect some flak. You may be tempted to spend too much on entertainment or luxury items. Your lucky day this week will be Sunday.

The personal problems you may be having are interfering with your productivity. You may find that romance will unfold through business connections. You may have personal problems, but professional duties might be pressing. Your lucky day this week will be Wednesday.

Travel opportunities must be taken advantage of. Be careful not to lead someone on if you truly have no interest. The emotional state of peers may cause a problem for you. Throw yourself into your work. Your lucky day this week will be Friyay.

This will be a great night to invite friend over to visit. You should sign up for

CASHMERE, Elizabeth Ada “Betty” (nee Freeman)

2nd March 1955 ~ 27th August 2024

Late of Marl Street, Mount Garnet. Betty passed away peacefully at Atherton Hospital surrounded by her loving family.

Loving Wife and soulmate of Cedric Addo Cashmere (Dec.). Loved Daughter of Peter Jnr (Toby) and Lillian Freeman, Sister of Frederick (Dec.), Richard (Dec.), Cynthia (Dec.), Susan, Margaret, Peter and Lindsay.

Relatives and friends of Betty and the Freeman, Go-Sam, Cashmere, Miller, Riley, Blohm and extended families are respectfully invited to attend a celebration of life for Betty which will be held at the Mount Garnet Town Hall, on Friday 20th September, 2024. Service commences at 11.00am followed by interment at the Mount Garnet Cemetery.

Betty’s service will be available to view through the following link: https://rapidspintv.com.au/ funerals/guilfoyles-funeral-home/. Betty requested family wear Brisbane Bronco’s colours.

THE FAMILY OF Enore (Ernie) Querin

Would like to express their gratitude and appreciation towards the staff at the Mareeba Hospital and the Palative Care Unit for the care and understanding provided to Enore during his time in the hospital.

Top Hospital and Top Team of dedicated Doctors and Nurses, thank you. Also not forgetting the Ambulance Service with their constant amazing support during Enore’s last days.

We would also like to thank Guilfoyle Funerals for their assistance and service.

A heartfelt thank you to Father Saju and Father Greenup and the Mareeba Italian Choir, your presence was a blessing, the words and music of comfort and encouragement at our time of need will always be treasured by our family.

Thank you to all who have shared kindness, sympathy and support shown to all our family with cards, flowers and texts, during this difficult time of losing our much beloved Enore Querin.

We will keep you all in our prayers.

PLANT TRAILER - Suits Excavator / Tractor. ATM 3.5T Alloy ramps, new tyres, rims, axels (60mm2) $11,600 ono. Ph:0432 588331

KUBOTA TRACTOR

M8200 Turbo Diesel 4x4 with Howard 6ft Slasher, 2,600hrs, 4 new tyres, $25,000 ono. Ph: 0432 588331

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 Antonio Macri

Who passed away on 14th September, 2022

When many thoughts go back, As they always do. We always treasure the memories, That we have of you. Sadly missed by your loving Family.

Neil Martin

Passed 12th September, 2022.

Your loving Wife Gina, Tanya, Chantel & Darrin & families. My mind still talks to you and my heart still looks for you, But my soul knows you’re at peace.

gmail.com

Cat 963C Track Loader w/ 4-1 Bucket Rops cab, new seals inserted in final drives approx 100 hours ago, left hand track adjuster seal replaced approx 100 hours ago, new alternator. $50,000 (+GST)

Hitachi Loader - Model ZW180-5 Rops air cab, tyres 90%, unit only done 5,600 hours, bucket capacity 3.5m3 $160,000 (+GST)

Hitachi 4x4 Loader - Model LX100

Quick-hitch loader with bucket, forks and jib crane, bucket capacity 2.0m3 engine rebuild approx 4,000 hours ago, tyres 90%.

$50,000 (+GST)

Hitachi Excavator - Model ZX330 Quick-hitch, approx 8,000 hours, in excellent condition.

$75,000 (+GST)

Miscellaneous:

• 12m x 3.2m 2 bedroom with ensuite & kitchen donga. $80,000 (+GST)

• 12m x 3.2m 1 bedroom size 3x3, separate shower & toilet. Laundry 3x3m. Kitchen 3x3m. $85,000 (+GST)

• Denyo gen set 37kva, 3 phase. $5,000 (+GST)

• Agricultural tractor 4m blade. Offers

• 1966 Hr holden ute. $25,000 (+GST)

• Donga frame. 11.2m x 2.1m. Offers

• Assorted steel, rhs, angle iron, pipes etc. $POA

• 200l drum of concrete curing oil. Offers All above located in Mareeba.

To view contact Mal at Lane Machinery on 0400 657 058 Email: lanemachinery@gmail.com

GRANNY

Unfurnished room with kitchenette, aircon, ceiling fan, security screens, separate shower/toilet. Free accommodation in return for help with horse feeding/care, approx 10 hours per week, rural acreage, Barrine area, suit employed female with own vehicle. Available mid October. P: 0427 650 317

CLIMATE RESILIENCE PROGRAM MANAGER Full Time or Part Time (60-75

Location: Mareeba, Croydon or Georgetown For information and to apply, visit: gulfsavannahnrm.org/employment Applications close: 9am, Monday 30 September, 2024.

CLASSIFIEDS

Job Opportunity:

Casual Bookkeeper

at Mareeba Shire Tourism

Mareeba Shire Tourism is seeking a detail-oriented casual Bookkeeper to join our team. Responsibilities include data entry, paying invoices, and managing the receipt of sponsorships and grant funding. Experience with Xero is essential, and while being a BAS agent is desirable, it’s not required. If you’re experienced in bookkeeping and looking for flexible, casual work (approximately 2 hours per month), we’d love to hear from you!

Apply now to be part of our vibrant team!

Job Opportunity:

Casual Social Media/Website Manager at Mareeba Shire Tourism

Mareeba Shire Tourism is looking for a creative and tech-savvy casual Social Media/Website Manager. This role involves approximately 4 hours per week and is responsible for managing social media posting and website updates for the Visit Mareeba Shire and Kuranda Village accounts. Experience with WordPress is essential, and a strong understanding of social media is a must. Join us and help showcase the beauty of our region!

Job Opportunity:

Executive Officer at Mareeba Shire Tourism

Mareeba Shire Tourism is seeking an experienced and dynamic Executive Officer to lead and manage our operations. In this casual role (approximately 8 hours per week), you will work closely with the Mareeba Shire Tourism Board, industry members, and key tourism stakeholders to promote the premier experiences, locations and products of the Mareeba Shire. The Executive Officer will be instrumental in enhancing the organisation’s reputation and driving the successful delivery of the Tourism Action Plan for the Shire.

Join us in shaping the future of tourism in Mareeba Shire!

All applications should be emailed to: chair@mareebashiretourism.org

And should include detail of skills, experience and hourly rate.

Applications close on October 15, 2024. More details regarding the roles and responsibilities required for Mareeba Shire Tourism can be found online at: www.visitmareebashire.org/ mareebashiretourism

SHED ERECTORS

Shed erectors needed. Must have own vehicle and tools. Full time work available. Immediate start. Experience required. Please Call 0418 791 096

RECEPTIONIST

Full Time Position

We are looking for a Receptionist to join our busy practices in Mareeba & Atherton.

The successful applicant will be attending phone calls, booking appointments and ensuring patients are seen in a timely manner.

We are after a team member who has:

• Excellent time management skills in a fast pace environment

• Travelling between Mareeba and Atherton practices

• Ability to multitask

• Able to work as part of a team

• Excellent communication and customer service skills

• Professional manner

• Willingness and ability to learn our systems

• Experience with Word and Excel an advantage Applicants must have a drivers licence and own vehicle.

Please drop your resume with cover letter into Rural Medical Imaging Atherton or Mareeba, Or email it to: Innisfail@ruralmedicalimaging.com.au

Annual General Meeting

L.D. Lucey Memorial Park Inc.

Time: 12.30pm on Sunday the 22nd of September 2024. This will be followed by a General Members Meeting.

Venue: Turf Club, L.D. Lucey Memorial Park, Mt Garnet.

Mareeba Multicultural Festival RAFFLE TICKET WINNERS

First Prize: Bernie Mathews Second Prize: Shirley Feng Third Prize: Meg Livingstone Fourth Prize: Hunter Winter www.mareebamulticulturalfestival.com.au

WEEKLY SUNDAY BINGO

Mareeba Bowls Club 43 Anzac Avenue, Mareeba

Women’s Clinics

(These clinics are available to Medicare eligible clients)

Notice of Praecipe

Nadine Shopland © of Walkamin, 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 Conveyance to the Land and Soil jurisdiction of Terra Australis also known as the Commonwealth of Australia Public Recording Number RPP4463900051003626373600, Proclamation Date 3 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 Nadine Shopland © in fraudulent debased Dog-Latin, GLOSSA.

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

Service includes Cervical Screening Tests (Pap Smears), Sexual Health Screening, Breast Awareness, also info on Contraception, Continence, Menopause, Lifestyle Issues, Bowel Health etc.

All services are provided by a specially trained Qld Health Women’s Health Nurse.

Ravenshoe Primary Health Centre

Tuesday 3rd September

Phone 4097 6223 to make an appointment.

Malanda Primary Health Centre

Wednesday 4th September

Phone 4096 5339 to make an appointment.

Mt Garnet Primary Health Centre

Monday 16th September

Phone 4097 4800 to make an appointment.

Atherton Community Health Centre

Tuesday 17th September

Phone 4091 0263 to make an appointment.

Chillagoe Primary Health Centre

Wednesday 25th and Thursday 26th September

Phone 4094 7500 to make an appointment.

SPORT

Tight encounter for cup, shield

IN a game that went down to penalty shootouts, the St Thomas’ boys took home the Wayne Shroj Cup for the first time in five years, while the Mareeba State School girls secured the Wayne Shroj Shield in a convincing win.

The Mareeba State School take on St Thomas Parish School in the local derby match every year that features a girl’s game followed by a boy’s game, with teams being comprised of students from Grades 4, 5 and 6.

Each winning team earns the rights to boast the Wayne Shroj Shield and the Wayne Shroj Cup respectively at their schools until the next winner is decided in the following year’s match.

This year the Mareeba State School girl’s claimed victory over the St Thomas’ team, leaving a score of 3-0, giving their school the rights to hold onto the Wayne Shroj Shield until next year’s victor is decided.

While the boys’ match was tight all game and with the State School having majority of the possession, it ended at 0-0 and went into penalty shootouts.

With other students in the crowd watching on eagerly and cheering their school, the shootouts were tied after five attempts each.

They both had one more attempt and after a missed attempt from the State School, St Thomas’ ended up taking home the Wayne Shroj Cup for the first time in five years.

Talent shines on Black Dog Day

MAREEBA Cricket held a Black Dog Day at Borzi on Saturday, with two great games played.

Mareeba 3rd Grade took on Norths, with Mareeba ending up with 5/100 and Norths finishing on 5/103.

Jared Dent topped scored 19 not out and took a wicket, while Nick Cifuentes finished on 18 not out and also claimed a wicket. Ross Ferguson was the pick of the bowlers with 3/15.

Mareeba A grade showed their talent, winning their match against The Salerno Boys.

Mareeba scored 170 while The Salerno Boys finished with 143 runs.

Brendan Payne topped scored on 42 and Tully scored 26.

Tim OSullivan was pick of the bowlers taking 4/25, while Ross Ferguson and Tully both took two wickets each.

Michael Salerno topped scored for The Salerno Boys with 43 runs, Mick Rees finished on 22, while Joe and Adrian Salerno both took two wickets each.

Grabyourtruelocalnewspaper atthefollowinglocations:

MAREEBA:

Mareeba News, Piagno’s News, Mareeba Discount Drug Store, Shell Mareeba Service Station, BP Mareeba, Mareeba IGA, Curcio’s Bakery, Mobil Service Station Mareeba, Termite, Portsmith Fuels, Biboohra Cash Store, Post Office Centre Mareeba, Mareeba Leagues Club and all good business outlets.

ATHERTON:

Summers News, Phillips News, Mobile Atherton, Fresh St. Market IGA, Puma Service Station Atherton, Atherton International Club, Atherton Bakehouse, Café on Louise, Atherton Feed & Saddle Shed, Tableland Fertilizers Atherton, Community Services Tablelands, Atherton Visitor Centre, Carrington Hotel Atherton, Woolworths Atherton, Woolworths Servo Atherton and Cottage Cafe.

SOUTHERN TABLELANDS:

Tolga News, Mobil Service Station Tolga, Cash Store Walkamin, Malanda Spar, Caltex Malanda, Marano’s Malanda, Tobin’s Millaa Millaa, Yungaburra Foodworks, Yungaburra Pit Stop, Kairi Store, Herberton News, Herberton 5 Star, Wondecla Roadhouse, Ravenshoe News, Ravenshoe Hiland Bakery, Foodworks Ravenshoe, Marano’s Ravenshoe, Tall Timbers Roadhouse, Mt Garnet Post Office, Cornett’s Ravenshoe, Ravenshoe Information Centre, Malanda Real Estate, Millaa Millaa Real Estate, Malanda Visitor Centre, Eacham Fuels Malanda and Yungaburra Information Centre.

KURANDA:

Kuranda News, Kuranda Foodmart, Koah Service Station, Speewah Store, Kowrowa Cash Store and Kuranda BP Roadhouse.

DIMBULAH:

TGT Home Hardware, Dimbulah Post Office, Bendigo Bank, Dimbulah One Stop and De Lai Fuel Distribution.

CHILLAGOE:

Almaden Hotel, Chillagoe Post Offi ce, Chillagoe General Store, Chillagoe Hotel and Post Office Hotel.

MT MOLLOY:

Mt Molloy Post Office and Mt Molloy Store.

KARUMBA: Post Office Karumba, Karumba Pharmacy and Carpentaria Fuels.

GEORGETOWN:

Ampol Roadhouse, Midway Caravan Park and Georgetown Hospital.

NORMANTON:

One Stop Shop, Normanton Trader and Garden Café.

MT SURPRISE:

Post Office and Mt Surprise Service Station.

CROYDON:

Gulf Gate Roadhouse and Croydon General Store.

EINASLEIGH:

Post Office and Einasleigh Council.

FORSAYTH:

Store and Post Office and Goldfi eld Tavern.

And numerous small businesses across the Tablelands, Gulf and Peninsula!

Wayne Shroj with the winning schools and their trophies.

Lots of action on the wicket during Mareeba Cricket’s Black Dog Day. Image: Peter Roy.

SPORT

Roosters will look for more in 2025

WITH the 2024 season well and truly over for the Atherton Roosters, A Grade coach Joel Riethmuller has reflected on the team’s performance and what lies ahead for next year.

The Roosters finished in fifth spot on the FNQRL premiership ladder this year – a marked improvement on the 2023 season when the team ended up third from the bottom.

While the recent elimination final that ended their season was disappointing, Riethmuller says it was not altogether surprising given they were missing some key players and had a run of injuries during the game.

“We just ran out of people – we only had one on the bench at the end of the game,” he said.

“We had three out from the week before which didn’t help, then we lost a front rower early, one of the wingers hurt himself and one of the back rowers hurt his knee so we literally finished with 14 players – but that’s just footy.”

While it was disappointing not to go further into the finals, Riethmuller is happy with the efforts of his young charges this year.

“You’re disappointed to lose but I think we did all right this season, we had a lot of young local lads come through and they achieved pretty

well,” he said.

“I think people thought if we got to the finals it would be a good year, and we ended up going two weeks in, but it’s all timing. We just didn’t have much depth so losing three players from the week before made it hard.

“We won three games last year I think and finished third last so we came a long way from that.”

Riethmuller believes the team’s younger players have a lot of potential and expects their performance to improve in 2025.

“It’s been good, but it takes time – we’ve got some more young fellas coming through and there was a fair few lads there who were pretty consistent in their first full year of A grade,” he said.

“Our core group is in their mid-20s and younger, they are only going to get better, it’s just time in the game and learning.”

He expects many of them to back up next year and says the club will seek out more experienced players in the off season to boost the team.

“We’ll look at who we need to get in to strengthen our weaknesses. We’ve already identified where we need to be better and we’ll chase players to do that – we will target what we need and

that helps the young fellas,” Riethmuller said.

“Those older fellows teach them what it takes, they are worth their weight in gold.”

Riethmuller has also confirmed he will coach again in 2025.

“I’ve got a lot to learn too, and it’s been great having those young fellows here and I want to stick with them,” he said.

While it takes a lot of commitment from both the coach, the club and players every season to turn up to training twice a week and to travel to matches across a vast region while working a full-time job, Riethmujller says “you do it because you love it and the community love it too”.

While the players have a few weeks off, they will be back on the training field in November.

“It’s just to get together, it builds a bit of culture and it’s good to keep the young fellows training – if you want to go on to a higher level, you need to be training,” Riethmuller said.

“The more time you spend together, the more easy it is to play footy.

“It’s time in the game and confidence - the more games you play, the more confident you get. The game slows down for you and you become more comfortable in that environment.”

Aidan Day named Player of the Year

Serji learns from Title tilt

With only one year with Muay Thai, 10-year-old Serji Kravchenko proved that despite being unsuccessful in his bid for the Queensland title last weekend, he has the staying power to go far in Muay Thai.

Mareeba Spirit Muay Thai gym owner Rosaria Signorino said the match had been very technical and experience won.

“Serji showed us that he can go really far in the sport,” he said.

“To be the best you need

to fight the best. The other competitor [Caleb Glover] has three titles and a gold medal at the IFMA (International Federation of Muaythai Associations) World Championships in Thailand.

“Next one we’ll be back stronger,” Rosaria said. “It was definitely a good experience for him.”

Serji travelled to Brisbane last weekend to take part in the Queensland Paperweight Title in a five-two match –five rounds at two minutes per round.

Golfers head to Millaa Millaa

GOLFERS will be taking their clubs and heading to the Millaa Millaa Golf Club this weekend for two days of golfing competition.

On Saturday, the Ravenshoe Hardware Day will be held involving a 4-ball Medley Ambrose

For this popular fun event, players can nominate a full team of four players or as many as possible and the club will help out with additional players.

Players can nominate their

team through by email to millaamillaagc@gmail.com or calling or texting Bob Collyer on 0417 749 070.

The event will start with a shotgun start at 9.30am.

On Sunday, the main event, the Millaa Millaa Open, will be held.

This is an 18-hole stroke play with the time sheet starting at 8am.

Nominations can be made the same as for Saturday’s 4 ball, through the email address or by contacting Bob.

ROOSTERS’ prop forward Aidan Day has been named the club’s Player of the Year.

The Atherton Senior Roosters Rugby League Club held its annual presentation night on Friday, announcing numerous awards for the 2024 season.

CLUB AWARDS

Club Life MembershipGerard Grace

Rising Star Eacham JRLRocco Pensini

Female Rookie of the YearRayleigh Oppermann

Male Rookie of the YearRyley Flute

Club Person of the YearRakeem Rainbow

Most Tries 2024 - Jayden Connors

HIT 97.9 TABLELANDS

FIRST GRADE

Player of the Year - Aidan

Day

Best Forward - James Clark

Best Back - Richard Pandia

Most Consistent - Oskar Coutts

Most Improved - Kaleb Neilson

DANIEL PAYNE BLOCKLAYING RESERVE GRADE

Best & Fairest - Coopa

Stremouchi

Best Forward - Klayton

Stremouchi

Best Back - Coopa Stremouchi

Most Consistent - Jayden Ives

Most Improved - Cody Ciranni

SPAR MALANDA UNDER 19

Best & Fairest - Seith Stein

Best Forward - Sawyer Nehow

Best Back - Joel Nane

Most Consistent - Jackson Clark

Most Improved - Brasher Coutts

NIGHTINGALE REAL

ESTATE LADIES

Best & Fairest - Mayleen Oppermann

Best Forward - Lexeen Mathieson

Best Back - Teesha Potts

Most Consistent - Aleysha Genge

Most Improved - Jacinda Royee-Hill

Sportstar Awards

THERE’S only a few days left to nominate a sporting team, coach or athlete in the North Queensland Sportstar Awards.

The awards are the longest running and most widely recognised sports awards in regional Queensland, recognising excellence in athletic achievement and volunteering.

This is a chance to recognise the incredible athletes, teams and coaches who have excelled in their field and inspired their communities all year long. There are eight award categories - Senior Sportstar (18 years +); Junior Sportstar (under 18 years); Athlete with a Disability Sportstar Award;

Regional & Remote Sportstar Award; Team Sportstar Award; Masters of Sport Award; Service to Sport Alan Ticehurst Memorial Award; and Sporting Excellence Award. Nominees will be judged on their achievements and performances from 1 August 2023 to 1 September 2024. Nominations can be done online at https://nqsports.com. au/nq-sportstar-awards or contact Mareeba Shire Council 1300 308 461. Nominations close Friday 13 September for Mareeba Shire Council residents. The awards presentation night will be held in Mount Isa on 26 October.

Coach Joel Riethmuller.

Golden point win one for the ages

IN an intense grand final with a golden point finish, the Under 15 Atherton Roosters came away with a twopoint victory over the Cairns Kangaroos in their first year in the FNQRL Coastal competition.

Over the weekend, the Under 15 Roosters competed in a grand final game that was one for the ages, taking out the Kangaroos 30-28.

Held at Barlow Park, the Roosters put the first points on the board with Kai Brown scoring the first try in the seventh minute.

The Kangaroos then answered back with two consecutive tries and a penalty goal before the first half was done leaving the score 12-6 at halftime.

The second half saw a back and forth of tries being scored with the Kangaroos scoring just minutes in.

Not long after Atherton’s Jonty Coutts returned serve, scoring two tries just five minutes apart.

The Kangaroos came back with another try before Sam Fahlstrom and Tate Ashley put the Roosters back in front scoring a try each two minutes apart, with five minutes to go.

But a late try and a successful conversion from the Kangaroos in the final minute of the game allowed them to tie it up at 28 apiece, taking the game into golden point.

Five minutes in, a missed penalty goal from Jonty Coutts led the Kangaroos to have to take a dropout from the 20 metre line.

The Bulls bow out

THE run is over, but the Mareeba Bulls gave it their best on Saturday in their bid to make the FQPL Far North & Gulf league grand final.

Despite the Bulls promising first goal by Alex Plowman in a closely fought match, Leichhardt Lions’ Alex Russell answered quickly and the game then ran as a 1-1 nail-biter.

“We had our chances, they had there’s,” Mareeba Captain Adrian Madrid said.

It was not until the last few minutes when the Lions scored again, taking the match to a 2-1 defeat for the Bulls.

Mareeba felt the loss of key player Wayne Srhoj who was out due to injury. Matters did not improve when Darcy McCormack left the field after 25 minutes, leaving a depleted team. Substitute Steven Cater did his best but was also

suffering from an injury.

“The team prepped well, but we were down players,” Adrian said. “Having Wayne on the bench hurt us a little, and then the early injury to Darcy, another key playmaker, threw us out a little.

“But I’m proud of the boys, they’ve put every effort in and we came home strong and deserved to be in the final.”

For the captain, the season had played out well, and more to the point, he had “just really enjoyed playing”.

“We all do,” Adrian said. “We don’t get paid, it’s not that sort of competition, but 100 percent we really enjoy ourselves, getting together and being there to play. It’s for the love of the game.”

After trying for a short kick that failed to travel 10 metres, a penalty was given in favour of the Roosters. Jonty then converted his second attempt at the penalty goal from 20 metres out which sealed the deal for the Roosters making them grand final winners of the U15 Coastal competition.

Atherton coach James Coyle was “very proud” of the effort of the players and noted that their fitness and their commitment to the game plan and to one another is what got them the win.

“I’m very proud of the boys, they dug deep. They had to play away games all season and winning the comp is a massive achievement.

“They played really well, all of them, they weathered the storm from the big boys and their fitness showed in the second half and it got them over the line. They just stuck to the gameplan and kept working for each other,” James said.

“It meant everything to the boys, they were obviously very happy getting the win and the club was extremely proud of them, winning in their first year of the comp.

“Going down there to not only make the grand final but to take it home was very special.

“I was on the edge of my seat, very nervous, but I knew we were fitter than them which worked well for us.

“There was a great crowd, so I was very thankful for that, it helped get us home,” he said.

Grand final loss heartbreaking for Gladiators

THE Mareeba Gladiators showed plenty of courage in a heart-breaking loss of 28-4 in the Under 19 grand final game over the weekend.

The game was played at Barlow Park and saw many locals travel down to cheer on the Mareeba team as they took on the Cairns Kangaroos.

In the first half, the Kangaroos struck first with a try in the sixth minute followed by another two.

Mareeba only managed to cross the tryline once in the game, scoring in the first half through

Ashton Martin on the wing.

After being down 18-4 at halftime, the Gladiators came back out in the second half showing a lot of heart.

Unable to cross the tryline themselves, they held the Kangaroos to only two tries in the second half.

The game, ending 28-4, showed a lot of passion from both teams and was rife with intensity throughout.

Atherton Under 15 co-captains Cooper Dockrill and Beckett Fry address the crowd after Saturday’s Grand Final win.

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