SOME of the best Australian music artists, including country sensation James Johnston (below), were joined by US superstars Tyler Hubbard and Kip Moore (right) to thrill thousands of people who filled Mareeba’s Kerribee Park for the biggest Savannah in the Round to date.
The fifth annual festival was so well attended that the car park at the event was full by mid-afternoon Saturday and all camping spots were sold out last week.
Apart from the wide array of musical talent across the four different stages, festival-goers also enjoyed the exhilarating bullriding action and the great variety of food on offer. See more on pgs 12-13
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.
SHE’s got a wicked sense of humour and a mind as sharp as a tack, and when Yungaburra’s Adelene Franklin celebrates a century this Saturday, there is no doubt the event will attract plenty of well-wishers, family members and friends.
“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.
The centenarian only surrendered her driver’s licence three years ago and still keeps busy playing cards with girlfriends once a week, going to bingo and looks forward to her son, John, and his wife, Catherine, taking her out each Sunday for a drive.
“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.
She has also been an avid sewer, making clothes for outback kids and also crochets beautiful rugs, wraps them in cellophane, attaches a personal card and gets her son to drop them off to families who have just had a new baby, even though she doesn’t personally know the family.
“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.
Proudly displaying her card from King Charles III last week, Adelene is looking forward to friends dropping into her birthday celebrations at Eden House on Saturday from 1pm-4pm.
locally and internationally for their distinct flavours and exceptional quality”.
– two girls and three boys –Adelene now has 12 grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren and seven great great grandchildren – and she can name all of them.
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
Having had five children
“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.
back to front with his seasons – telling them to plant seeds in October whereas they should have been doing that in July,” she 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.”
Adelene was born in the Herberton Hospital on 18 October 1924 but has lived in Yungaburra for the vast majority of her life, spending the last 70 years in the same family home. It was here that Adelene and her husband, Les, ran a flourishing business for many decades on the site that is now the Foodworks supermarket.
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.
Kaye in 1950, Wayne in 1954 and Howard in 1956.
One of the biggest moments in their lives was when Les started Franklin and Company in 1946 – a business that sold everything from farm machinery to electrical goods, household items and even petrol out the front, becoming the Caltex fuel distributor for the area for 38 years.
Crackdown on feeding crocs
Adelene’s father then walked all the way to Mareeba to get “sustenance” which was unemployment benefits at the time, but when they told him that he’d have to pay it all back when he got a job, he said they could keep it. He then walked to Yungaburra to secure a job at a local sawmill to make enough money to move the family to the small town.
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.
When the Second World War came, Adelene went to live with an aunt in Ravenshoe and started working at the local post office.
penalties for existing offences which aim to deter people from engaging in behaviours that pose a serious risk to public safety and animal conservation.
When they lost a staff member in 1956 when Howard was only a few months old, Adelene stepped into help “and I never left”, introducing groceries into the retail mix in 1968, a first step toward the supermarket that is there today.
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.
Adelene has deep roots within the region, with her grandparents setting up a dairy farm before the First World War at an area that was then known as Maggs Hill (after her grandfather Gilbert Maggs) and is now known as Windy Hill.
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.
Adelene’s parents met in Ravenshoe, married in 1919, and she spent her first five years living at Maggs Hill before they moved to a place called “Morgan Settlement” near Tolga to start tobacco farming.
She subsequently moved to Cairns and lived with her parents, taking a job in the mailroom at the Cairns post office but when the men began to return home after the war, had to give up her job in favour of the men.
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”.
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.
“And we went broke –everyone on that settlement went broke because Mr Morgan brought a fellow up from Melbourne to teach us how to grow tobacco and he was all
It wasn’t long after that that Adelene started to work in a men’s hostel and that was where she met her future husband, Les Franklin, who was originally from Sydney, and married him on 10 March 1945.
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
Adelene has had some health challenges along her 100 years, having been flown to Townsville in the middle of the night by the RFDS in July 2002 for open heart surgery. Sadly, her husband, Les, also had heart problems, surviving surgery after a heart attack when he was aged 56, but succumbing to heart issues and passing away in 1989 aged just 67.
“The State Government has failed to manage the crocodile crisis for over a decade, and now it’s completely out of control,” he said.
The question on most people’s lips is what is the secret to reaching 100.
The couple had their first child, Diane, in December that year, followed by John in 1948,
“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.”
“I don’t how I got here – everybody has their ups and downs in life and you just weather them,” she said.
“Live every day as you can.”
Mt Uncle Distillery Owner and Head Distiller Mark Watkins with FNQ Rum’s awardwinning Iridium X rum.
Investigation into poisoning tree claims
FEARS that trees within the Atherton Arboretum have been poisoned are being investigated by the Department of Environment, Science and Innovation (DESI).
The move follows concerns of a passing resident who spotted a cluster of dead trees within the Arboretum, through the fence, took photographs and forwarded them to the department and its pollution hotline.
He noticed a number of the trees were ringed and others had pink tape around their trunks.
A department spokesperson said DESI was “aware of the concerns raised regarding the alleged poisoning of the trees at the Atherton Arboretum and will be making further enquiries to determine if there have been any offences under the Queensland Heritage Act 1992”.
The tree stand on the corner of Maunds Rd and Groves Street was created by the CSIRO some 50 years ago and contains rare and threatened species. The plantations future became uncertain when the Federal Government closed the CSIRO, and the property went to sale.
Despite being privately owned, the site became the centre of a community push for heritage listing in a bid to protect the trees. This was granted in August for the Arboretum section of the property.
“Owners of heritage-listed places are responsible for maintaining the heritage values of their properties,” the spokesperson said.
“The protection of Queensland’s heritage is crucial to preserving our unique cultural identity, history, and biodiversity.
“Strong penalties apply for developing a
heritage-listed place without the required approvals. The maximum penalty is $2.74 million for an individual or over $13 million for a corporation.”
Experienced local foresters, Dr Kevin Harding, and Dr Greg Unwin (who worked at the former CSIRO site for 18 years) said as representatives of the Friends of the Arboretum community group they would not comment on the ongoing investigation except to say the matter was being taken very seriously by DESI.
However, asked whether it was fair to place the burden of care on the private owner, or whether the arboretum should be under state control, they told The Express that the property owner was clearly informed before and during the sale process in late 2023 that the Atherton Arboretum had historical and heritage significance and would be subject to Heritage Listing consideration and a covenant clause had been included in the settlement negotiations.
“Our opinion is that it is most unfortunate that the CSIRO did not subdivide the site to excise this nationally and internationally significant Arboretum before undertaking a sale to divest the site from their asset base,” they said in a statement.
“The Arboretum on a separate title could have been gifted in Trust to either the State Government or the Tablelands Regional Council to maintain it in the long term without a large up-front capital cost commitment by the state or local government.”
The owner of the property was contacted by The Express but declined to comment.
CASSOWARY CAUTION NEEDED
DRIVERS have been warned about an adult cassowary who is risking its life and bringing traffic to a standstill along a narrow, winding stretch of road at the top of Gillies Range.
The cassowary has been sighted repeatedly meandering in and out of traffic along a 5km stretch of the road, sparking a warning to motorists to keep their windows up, not discard any food and drive with caution near the top of the range.
“Wildlife officers have reviewed videos taken by members of the public and believe this bird has been previously fed by people from cars,” Department of Environment manager northern wildlife operations Dave Woods said.
“It is not wary of vehicles, and it can be seen approaching vehicles as they slow down or stop, hoping to be fed. If people stop offering the cassowary food, it will return to the rainforest and go back to foraging for food without any further human intervention.
“We have conducted several site inspections and observed the cassowary’s behaviour, but the section of road presents operational challenges.
“Due to the narrow road, high volume of traffic and steep landscape, it would be dangerous and difficult for wildlife officers to conduct behavioural modification on the animal.
“We are currently working with the Department of Transport and Main Roads and the Queensland Police Service about management options to address the risk to road users and the cassowary.”
A dead tree stands amongst other healthy ones on the Atherton property.
2024 QUEENSLAND ELECTION
GPS tracking to protect DV victims
A GPS tracking program for high-risk offenders of family and domestic violence will be trialled if the LNP wins government later this month.
As part of its Safer Families, Safer Communities policy, the LNP has pledged to establish a pilot program of up to 500 offenders with GPS that monitors their location and sounds an alarm if the offender gets close to where the victim lives or works.
The LNP has also pledged to deliver three new Beyond DV Hope Hubs providing safe, hidden places for victims to receive wrap around support. They will be delivered in shopping centres in key spots around the state.
“My message to perpetrators is crystal clear: under an LNP Government we will bring in consequences for action. We cannot continue to allow offenders to walk free while victims live in fear,” LNP leader David Crisafulli said.
“We will also offer victims
the choice to have their own safety device if they wish, to put the safety of victims front and centre.”
Mr Crisafulli said the GPS tracking program would be based on the world-leading Tasmanian model which had seen an 82% reduction in high-risk incidents.
“Perpetrators will be tracked 24/7 by a specialised team, with victims contacted immediately to enact safety plans if their perpetrator comes into proximity to them,” he said.
“At the same time, the LNP will work with recovery group Beyond DV to roll out three more Hope Hubs based on their incredible Westfield Carindale model which has seen thousands of women and children safely and discreetly through their doors at times of incredible stress in their lives.
“Our Hope Hubs will offer social, health, housing, legal and financial support in a setting which is easy and inconspicuous to access.”
KAP wants unmanned speed cameras scrapped
UNMANNED speed cameras should be scrapped and replaced with a “strong police presence” using hand-held devices, according to Katter’s Australian Party. Party leader Robbie Katter and Member for Hill Shane Knuth have vowed to get rid of the unmanned devices should they win government at October’s state election, saying they are nothing
more than “revenue raising” tools.
“The Department of Transport and Main Roads’s unmanned mobile speed camera trailers are raking in hundreds of millions from hard working regional Queenslanders,” Mr Knuth said.
“Smile for Sam Speed signs and a strong police presence through use of hand-held devices deter speeding, not unmanned devices that sit in wait at the same spot for two weeks, then send out multiple fines weeks later, worth thousands of dollars.
“All this does is create more problems, through financial stress and mental health issues across our communities.
“It’s time to call out this blatant revenue-raising tactic. We deserve safer roads, not a financial trap and the KAP will not stop until these
devices are off our roads.”
Late last year, Mr Knuth tried to help more than 250 people who were nabbed by an unmanned camera near Malanda. The motorists believed it was calibrated wrong, claiming they were doing the 60km/h speed limit but were slapped with infringement notices for doing 79km/h.
“The Labor government has been fixated on using unmanned speed cameras under the guise of making people feel safe, exploiting public concerns about road safety while wilfully turning a blind eye to the rampant youth crime plaguing our communities,” Mr Katter said.
“The KAP is committed to eradicating these cameras and in this election wants to see a commitment from all parties to do the
same while shifting the focus back to real law enforcement and prioritising public safety over profit.
“While the government wheels out these yellow revenue wagons, they fail to utilise visible and effective deterrents such as marked police vehicles.
“Burnt-out cars litter our roads and daily car thefts are becoming the norm across North Queensland, yet this government is choosing road safety theatre over real, impactful solutions to youth crime.
“The government has made its priorities clear, determined to chase remote dwellers on bush roads for a quick dollar, wasting valuable resources on these sneaky speed traps and ignoring the real criminals terrorising our communities.”
Navy vet takes on Barron Riv -
A NAVY veteran of 15 years has been named as Katter’s Australian Party’s candidate for Barron River at the 26 October election.
Ben Campbell will go up against incumbent Craig Crawford (Labor), Bree James (LNP), Peter Eicens (One Nation) and Denise Crew (Greens).
KAP leader Robbie Katter said Mr Campbell was a passionate community member, dedicated to community safety, minimising the cost of living, and individual freedoms.
“Ben’s passion and dedication during his time in the Navy, and his personal drive and values make him a perfect candidate for the KAP, and the local member that the people of Barron River desperately crave and deserve,” he said.
“Through his active involvement in local church groups, and competitive sporting shooting, Ben has entrenched himself in the community and gets what it takes to support his community.
“Ben is ready to use his understanding the real
issues in his community and have the gusto and passion to take those issues to Brisbane and follow in the KAP way of telling them how it really is here in Far North Queensland, and drive real, locally relevant solutions – not ideas dreamt up in a Brisbane HQ.” the KAP leader said.
Mr Campbell said his values and those of KAP aligned.
“During the lockdowns and mandates imposed on us by the major parties, I relocated to Cairns, knowing that the Freedom Focused North Queensland Community shares a unique set of values. Our way of life is precious and must be protected at any cost, and I’m here to do that,” he said.
“I am unashamedly an active sporting shooter, and have enjoyed pastimes such as 4WDing, camping, fishing, and hunting – our way of life here in FNQ is underpinned by our freedom to enjoy these pastimes, and I’m passionate about protecting our rights to do so from the woke brigade out of Brisbane.”
KAP leader Robbie Katter, Member for Hill Shane Knuth, candidate for Cook Duane Amos and Federal MP Bob Katter have all vowed to scrap unmanned speed cameras should they take power on 26 October.
2024 QUEENSLAND ELECTION 26
Candidates put it all on the line
ALL five candidates standing for Cook at the 26 October election put their best foot forward at last week’s Mareeba Chamber of Commerce luncheon, answering questions about the management of crocodiles, what should be done to improve the region’s road network, how to reduce crime and the importance of water security.
But it was chamber president Joe Moro who revealed that none of the candidates actually live in the Cook electorate and only two – KAP’s Duane Amos and LNP’s David Kempton – have committed to having a permanent office in Mareeba if they are successful at the poll.
Mr Moro asked if any of the candidates would consider moving into the electorate, with Mr Kempton advising he had lived a good portion of his life in the electorate but had moved to Cairns to give his children better educational opportunities and was now preparing to move back into Cook.
Earlier in the luncheon, the candidates outlined why they would be the best person for the job, with Mr Amos saying his party would ensure that decisions affecting the region were made by people living here and not in Brisbane.
He also cited his party’s strong policies on parents’ rights, crocodile management, and youth crime and their willingness to call out waste of taxpayer funds on the “wrong areas”.
Mr Amos pushed the argument that even though KAP could not take government, it could have a major influence on decisions if the party had the balance of power.
But Mr Kempton said there was no question that the election result would be clear cut between Labor or the LNP, so the
balance of power was a moot point.
In his address, Mr Kempton focused on the LNP’s crime policy, saying everyone he had spoken to in the electorate had been impacted by crime in some way or another and that things needed “to get tough” and magistrates needed to be able to “meet the expectations of the community” in relation to consequences for young offenders.
“We will give them a choice though – they can either choose education and a process that could help them become contributors to society or they can choose incarceration. They can make up their mind which way they want to go but there’ll be no free ride.”
Mr Kempton reiterated his party’s commitment to fix the Barron River bridge and pursue a road access to Cairns that would be accessible all year round,
MAREEBA Hospital’s emergency department would be treated to a $20 million upgrade if Labor wins the State election in just 10 days’ time.
Premier Steven Miles and Health Minister Shannon Fentiman travelled to Mareeba to make the announcement beside current Cook MP Cynthia Lui.
Premier Miles said the major upgrade, which would be completed by 2028, would boost capacity to 16 emergency department beds including two additional resuscitation spaces, an extra isolation space, two additional adult and paediatric spaces and a safe assessment room.
The project would also deliver a dedicated space to digitally link Mareeba Hospital and Cairns Hospital to ensure patients requiring extra care can be remotely monitored and stabilised.
“I’ve made it clear to Queenslanders that no matter where you live, I will deliver for you,” Mr Miles said.
“In Mareeba, we know the health care needs are changing and the current facilities need an upgrade to meet future demand.”
Both the Premier and Health Minister attributed the commitment on the hospital to the “passionate” advocacy by Ms Lui.
“My community is growing and changing, and so are our health needs,” Ms Lui said.
“With this funding, the Miles Labor Government is doing what matters to improve the health outcomes of this region.”
claiming that $26,000 a day was currently being spent on traffic control on the range road which had not seen further repairs since early this year.
He also made sure he told the audience that even though the Barron River bridge had just reopened to two lanes of traffic, it would revert to one lane after the election.
Cook incumbent Cynthia Lui stood on her record of delivering improved health services in the electorate, citing the upgrades to Cooktown, Weipa and Torres Strait hospitals, and upgrades to the Palmerston and Kennedy Highways as well as the Burke Development Road as testament to her party’s commitment to improving the road network.
She also listed her government’s cost of living measures including free Kindy, vouchers for sport, the electricity rebate
and free TAFE courses which, she said, were possible because her government had kept big mining companies “accountable”.
In her final comments, Ms Lui was moved to tears as she told the audience that when she entered politics, former Premier Anastasia Palecek had asked her what she wanted for the Cook electorate and she had replied” hope” and “that’s something I’ve always been very passionate about”.
“Seven years on and looking back at everything we have been able to achieve has been incredible. And it’s been an absolute honour and privilege to represent such a beautiful electorate,” she said.
One Nation’s Peter Campion said his party was all about reflecting “the people’s will” rather than their own agenda, which should be the fundamental role of
any government representative.
“I’m despairing for the state of our nation at the moment – businesses should be doing so much better than they are – but you’re not because of decisions taken on our behalf by people who are meant to be representing our will,” he said.
He also rejected the fears of global warming, supporting the continuation of coal-fired power stations and pointing out that China was building more and more every day while Australia’s agenda was to shut them down.
Mr Campion questioned what the future would hold for young people, if we did not “defend the prosperity” of our country, saying he had just greeted a new grandchild a week ago. “What sort of future are we leaving for him?”
The Greens’ Troy Miller said the biggest issue he had encountered in the electorate was the cost of living and his party was committed to improving the basics of life to be paid for by additional taxes by “big corporations”.
“People are struggling under the cost of living – prices are going up and up on housing, groceries, health care, mortgages and education while banks and billionaires are making record profits –do you think this is fair?” he said.
He also believes that much of the youth crime crisis could be attributed to the living conditions of young people, often in overcrowded houses with inadequate food which affected their capacity or desire to want to further their education.
Voting in the State election began on Monday, with pre-polling booths now open.
Cook candidates (from left), Duane Amos, David Kempton, Cynthia Lui, Peter Campion and Troy Miller at last week’s luncheon.
On the ground, out and about.
Voice for our farmers – the backbone of our country
Fights to protect Personal Freedoms – the right to camp, fish, hunt, swim
Defends Our Freedom of Choice - religious education, home schooling & parents’ rights
Solid policies against crime – Relocation Sentencing and Castle Law
Delivered- Millions for School Infrastructure Projects
Delivered- Restored Innisfail Bowls Club
Delivered- Atherton Community Centre... the list goes on!
VOTE SHANE KNUTH
St Teresa’s Champion Float.
Rebecca Hunter, John Wilson, Renee Jensen, Jessie Cairns and Jenni Clarke.
PARADE
Firefighters honoured
COMMEMORATIVE services were held state-wide in honour of Firefighters Remembrance Day last week.
During the services, the Queensland Fire Department paused for a minute’s silence to pay tribute to the 60 firefighters who have lost their lives in the line of duty since 1877.
Flags were also flown at half-mast at fire stations across the state. In our region to mark the day, a service was conducted in Atherton at the St Mary the Virgin Anglican Church on Thursday.
Dog fine outrage
A MAREEBA couple have been forced to pay more than $300 because they failed to notify Mareeba Shire Council that their dog had passed away.
The couple’s Facebook post explained that, amidst their grief, they had failed to tell the council their dog had died and “mistakenly ignored” a registration renewal notice about two months ago, thinking it was “irrelevant”.
“What we didn’t realise was that this oversight led to a fine that escalated from $30 to a staggering $322!” the post read.
“We are proud to be responsible pet owners - ensuring our pets are desexed, registered, and microchipped. However, this experience has taught us the importance of keeping the council updated about any changes in our pet’s status.
“We reached out to the council to explain that we overlooked this and asked to have the fine recalled but they could not assist – so, basically, we have to pay $322 for registration on a dog that had died. Apparently, you have 14 days after the dog has died to inform council.”
The post attracted nearly 300 comments, with quite a number of people advising they, too, had been caught out by the rule.
“Same thing happened to me, but two dogs. Fought them (the council) for a year but alas… near $700 later, I have to pay them,” one person wrote.
“They did the same to me they sent it to SPER and they cancelled my licence and when I contacted council, they refused any sort of support. I had no choice but to pay so my licence suspension was lifted,” another said.
“We had a similar situation with our two dogs. They are alive, however I was heavily pregnant and have since been adjusting to newborn life. Somehow my fatigued baby brain missed the bills and reminders in my email. I’d wondered if it was worth fighting, but going by the other responses, there doesn’t seem to be any hope in arguing it,” a woman wrote.
“I have had the same experience of late but with two dogs, so that is $644, and yet again our council had no empathy for our situation. Sometimes I wonder why we try to do the right thing,” a resident posted.
“Also happened to me, I have two registered dogs. Didn’t receive any renewal notices, they had gone to an old email address that had been hacked and I didn’t have access to. Nothing sent in the mail to the address where the dogs are registered (although that is where
our rates notice goes). Had to pay $644 in fines plus the registrations,” another person wrote.
Council explained that if the registration renewal was not paid and council had not been notified about the dog being moved to another local government area or that it had passed away, an infringement was issued.
“Residents need to pay the animal registration fee by the due date of 30 June every year. If residents fail to inform council of any changes in circumstances after receiving a renewal notice and reminder, then an infringement is issued and this is clearly stated on the notice,” Mayor Angela Toppin said.
“The State Government sets the infringement amount which is part of the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008 (Qld). The penalty for failing to register a dog or advise of a change in circumstance is $322 (two penalty units).
“This is the case across Queensland and council cannot change this.”
The Mayor also rejected claims by some dog owners that they did not receive any notification about the renewal or reminder notices.
All animal owners were sent registration renewal notices in April this year, advising that their dog must be registered or notify council of changed circumstances by 30 June.
The notice also clearly stated “please do not ignore your notice as you are liable for a Penalty Infringement Notice”.
In early July, council says it sent reminder notice to dog owners, advising them that their dog registration was now overdue and to arrange payment immediately or to notify council of changed circumstances to avoid a Penalty Infringement Notice.
The notice also clearly stated that they risked a Penalty Infringement Notice if they did not take action.
Mid-August, Penalty Infringement Notices was sent out to all dog owners who did not renew their animal registration or advise council of a change in their circumstances.
On 25 September, those people with outstanding dog registrations were issued an animal infringement reminder notice, granting a further 10 working days to pay the infringement in full, by instalments or elect to have a court hearing.
“Animal registration fees support animal shelter facilities and staff who work with animal-related services and emergencies,” Mayor Toppin added.
The Right Plan for Traeger’s Future
Council CEO resigns
TABLELANDS Regional Council’s chief executive officer Gary Rinehart has resigned from the position.
Council staff received news of his resignation in an email on Friday.
It is understood that Community Services general manager Hilary Jackson will take on the role of acting chief executive officer until council appoints a new CEO. It is unknown as to what recruitment process will be used to appoint a person to the role.
Mr Rinehart was appointed the CEO in June 2021, following a stint as interim CEO from March that year.
Previous to coming to TRC, Mr Rinehart was CEO of the North Burnett Regional Council for just nine months before he resigned in June 2019 due to personal reasons.
Mc COLLUM
I’m committed to working hard to ensure the voice of the Hill electorate is heard and our community’s needs are no longer overlooked.
COMMITTED TO SERVICE
I’m a father, a husband, small business owner and former Australian Army officer, who is ready to bring effective change.
UNDERSTANDING LOCAL NEEDS
As a small business owner, I understand the challenges facing local small and family-owned businesses.
LISTENING TO COMMUNITY PRIORITIES
I’ve heard your concerns on local roads, access to healthcare, the impacts of crime and the housing crisis.
I will provide strong representation for the Hill electorate in a new LNP Government, pursuing the right priorities for Queensland.
My background is in business and community development:
• 20 years owning and operating small businesses in Karumba
• 11 years owning and operating Esmerelda Station, south of Croydon
• Long-term member, Gulf Savannah Development Inc
• Current member, Carpentaria Shire Economic Development Advisory Committee
• 13 years as Volunteer Coordinator of the Cairns to Karumba Bike Ride
TUNNEY
I’m proud to be the LNP candidate for Traeger at the state election on the 26th October 2024. After 35 years living, working and volunteering in communities across the Gulf and North-West Queensland region, I’m ready to take on this new challenge.
Authorised by B. Riley, LNP, 281 Sandgate Road, Albion QLD 4010.
LNP FOR TRAEGER
Authorised by B Riley, LNP, 281 Sandgate Road, Albion QLD 4010.
Bikers protect abused children
By KONNOR FURBER
HAVING been told they are now the largest non-for-profit organisation, Bikers Against Child Abuse (BACA) are a global force dedicating their lives to the protection of abused children, in the hopes they can remove the fear that these kids live with.
“Imagine a parent finds out their kid has been sexually abused. That child will be living in fear, and that’s where we come in,” BACA Tablelands president Bat said.
“No other organisation can be there 24/7 for these children, whereas we can.”
The organisation focuses solely on the children and removing their fear, they do not have any contact with the offender.
“We’re purely there to take away that fear from the child, just to make them feel safe and give them a safe environment amidst the trauma they’re experiencing.
“In relation to the perpetrator, we don’t have anything to do with them,” Bat said.
In order for a child to come into the protection of the group, the parent of the abused child needs to be on board and the offence has to be reported with local authorities.
“It has to be the parent or legal guardian who contacts us, but sometimes the agencies will on behalf on the parent.
“We check that the abuse has been reported when the parent rings us, so that way we know it’s in the system and everything has been done that the system offers.
“We check that therapy has been started and also that the perpetrator is not still living in the same house, because sometimes that happens,” he said.
The group protects children from the ages of 3-18 only, however, in some cases they will accept people above the age of 18 if there is an intellectual learning disability present.
“Once we take a case on, we’ll go and talk to the child first to make sure they actually want to be a part of BACA.
“Once the child agrees to be involved with us, we’ll put on a little ceremony for them.
“We give them a little BACA bikers vest and a BACA teddy bear that’s full of neverending courage and they become a part of our family,” Bat said.
BACA members will then visit that child on a regular basis, and are also available to attend
Biker themed fundraising event
A COMMUNITY fundraising event showcasing a classic movie with two live bands on show will be held this Saturday at the Mareeba Drive-In from 3pm.
The event is hosted by the local chapter of Bikers Against Child Abuse (BACA) and Red Dirt Community Fund Tablelands and will celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Australian-produced outlaw biker film ‘Stone’, with part of the proceeds from the night being donated to both hosting organisations.
The registered QPS safe event is strictly adults only and will feature live music from Poundcake and Audioscam, there will also be a bar and food available at the venue, no BYO allowed.
Entry to the event will cost $30 per person and will have overnight camping on offer, with gates opening at 12 noon only for patrons to set up camp for the night.
For more information call Bat on 0459 770 064 or Blainy on 0419 480 436.
their premises at any needed time.
“Two primaries are assigned to a child, so there’s two of us present with them at any given time, and that’s for many legal reasons.
“The child gets visited every two weeks for up to eight weeks and after that they’re usually able to taper off to monthly visits.
“The whole goal is for the child to stop ringing us, our job is to relieve their fear. I’ve seen it happen within 40 minutes.
Making kids count
THE Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages will be in Mareeba next week for the “Our Kids Count” event.
During the community visits, the registry offers a whole range of services to children and adults including applications for birth certificates, marriage certificates and death certificates.
The registry advises that it is important to register the birth of a baby because it helps them access rights and opportunities like enrolling in day care, school and sports.
The hospital, Medicare and Centrelink do not register the baby.
The registration is free.
The Our Kids Count event is on 24 October from 9am to 3pm at the Mulungu Child and Family Centre, on the corner of Atherton and Sutherland Streets, Mareeba.
For more information, visit: www.qld.gov.au/.../register-yourbub-our-kids-count
“We also get instances where the child thinks the perpetrator is trying to get into their room at night.
“It could be legitimate or it could be just their fear. When this happens, we’ll go and stand outside that child’s house until their fear goes away.
“It’s extremely rare that we come across the perpetrator, once they find out we’re involved they normally stay away,” he said.
The organisation was founded in 1995 in America and in 2002 the first chapter outside of the US was formed in Australia. Today the group is currently in 11 countries and that number is projected to be at 18 by the end of the year.
They have recently been told they are now the world’s largest not-for-profit with no paid employees, with over 6,000 bikers worldwide committed to helping abused kids.
“It’s really effective what we do and fairly simple, there’s lots of organisations that do brilliant stuff around the issue, such as therapy and counselling, but nobody does what we do.
“ We give them a little BACA bikers vest and a BACA teddy bear that’s full of never-ending courage and they become a part of our family,” Bat said.
“And it’s completely free, there’s no money involved,” he said.
There are seven chapters in Australia, being in every state except Northern Territory. The Queensland chapter is situated on the Tablelands and currently has five members.
To join the group, members need to obtain a blue card and complete 12 months of online training before being allowed to work with the children.
Bat has been with BACA since 2016 and working with the kids since 2018.
“One of the biggest problems we face is getting membership. We are always looking for bikers willing to step up and actually do something to help kids, rather than just talk about it.
“All of our members have a real passion to help kids,” Bat said.
The Tablelands chapter hold meetings on the first Sunday of every month in Speewah. Also, every chapter worldwide does a “100-mile run” every May to raise awareness for BACA.
For more information, visit www.australia. bacaworld.org or call 1800 692 222.
Clean up call for Priors Creek
LOCALS are being encouraged to grab their hats and sunscreen and join Tablelands Regional Council and Tableland Yidinji Aboriginal Corporation later this month to clean up a stretch of Priors Creek.
“We’ve partnered with Wadjanbarra Tableland Yidinji to host this Great Northern Clean-Up event and contribute to the restoration of a beautiful natural asset right in the centre of Atherton,” Cr Con Spanos (pictured) said.
“We’ll be meeting at the Rail Trail near the Atherton Men’s Shed at 8.50am on Saturday 26 October and
working along the creek in both directions until about 10.30am.
“Afterwards we’ll have a morning tea and you can chat to our staff about our Reef Guardian Council projects and how to get involved in other events.”
Council will provide clean-up kits that include gloves, pick-up utensils and bags. Participants need to wear a hat, long pants and sleeves and sunscreen, and bring plenty of water.
Places are limited and participants will need to sign up at www.trc. qld.gov.au/gn-clean-up by Friday 18 October to secure a spot.
Roads red tape disaster
By ANDREE STEPHENS
KEEPING up with road repairs following the impacts of natural disasters or general wear and tear had become a frustrating cycle of red tape for local government, according to Mareeba councillors.
A key example was the seemingly scattergun approach to patching James St, which had regularly been at the centre of local complaints, Cr Lenore Wyatt told a council meeting recently.
“I know what the problem is, but the community really needs to know – we need a communication plan.”
Councillors heard the current James St repairs were as a result of the damage caused by weather events in early 2023 and for which funding had only recently been approved by the State and Federal government disaster relief funding.
However, new impacts made by Cyclone Jasper in December were not being treated, as funding was not yet processed.
State and Federal Governments provide disaster relief funding (a 20% to 80% split respectively). This means the local community, through its Council, does not have to foot the bill. However, the process to get this funding is complex and takes time.
Mayor Angela Toppin said the delays left people perplexed at the way repairs were being carried out.
“What the ordinary person on the street can’t understand is why you’re doing that pothole and not that bigger one down there,” she said.
“But we can’t move the money across from one event to the next. If we do any work which hasn’t been approved for funding, we have to pay for it. Well, the community has to make up the costs.”
Council’s chief executive officer
Peter Franks explained the steps to getting funding for road repairs that cause this lag. After an event, there was a 90-day period for “emergent works,” which essentially is to provide access back to the community.
Following this, a full report has to be submitted to the Qld Reconstruction Authority (QRA), detailing the extent of the damage, with supporting before and after photos, and an estimate on the costs of repairs.
“This takes a few months to prepare, we send it on to QRA, they then go through it and make sure it is appropriate,” he said.
“Once they’re happy with it, they send it to the Federal Government. They review it, and when agreed on, council is given the go-ahead to proceed.
“We then have to go out to tender, and that process takes a couple of months, then the tenders have to be evaluated and then be put to council to award the contract. Once council has approved it, the QRA must then approve it,” Mr Franks continued.
“If you look at that timeframe from the start of the event to the end of the “emergent works” period, to the time we get approval to do the full restoration and appoint a tenderer, you’re back to the next wet season.
“And our region is hampered by the wet, we can only effectively work in the dry.
“So that’s exactly what’s happening in James St. It got hammered in early 2023, but it also got hammered in December. We have to go back to QRA and outline the new damage, or the re-damaged sections, but we’ve only got approval for the early 2023 damage.”
Another frustrating component of funding raised in council was illustrated by the approaches to the
Gamboola Bridge.
Replacement of the old crossing, about 140km west of Chillagoe, was initially assessed within the “like for like” stipulations for funding.
“So, if you have a six-metre road, you only replace it with a six-metre road. You can’t have an eight-metre road. That said, however, the replacement must meet all current legislative requirements,” Mr Franks said.
This stipulation caused delayed approvals for a couple of years before the crossing was finally replaced with an upgraded bridge, at a costly $16 million. The improvement was based on the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries’ findings that the old crossing was non-compliant because it did not allow for the passage of fish up and down the Mitchell River.
The approaches to the bridge were now the issue before council. Made up of dirt and gravel, the approaches were washed out in early 2023.
Council requested state funding to replace them with concrete approaches, or at the least, with more rock in the base, but this was rejected under the “like for like” assessment.
After Cyclone Jasper, another request was made this year, but council was told last month that this had also been knocked back.
A frustrated Cr Kevin Davies said the cycle would continue with every flood event.
“So next big flood will wash away the approaches, and we’ll have to go back and say we need to reinstate, and they’ll say, ‘well put it back the way it was’ again,” he said.
“We will have this beautiful fancy bridge in the middle of nowhere and after the annual flooding of the Mitchell, no one will be able to access it until we can get some ‘betterment’ funding to upgrade the approaches.”
Trail ride hits the heights
WITH A
IS THIS THE LAST ELECTION LOCAL VOICE?
Fight to keep local stories alive
Our local stories are at risk without our fair share of government advertising.
This election, over 60 independent local newspapers across regional queensland will report extensively on grassroots issues, giving locals a voice on the future of our state.
Most government advertising spend goes to big city media and tech giants, who don’t employ local journalists or publish local news.
If you take away the papers, you take away our local stories.
The Victorian Government acted to protect its regional news media by mandating a ‘page per
week’ of government advertising spend in every regional and community newspaper.
Our independent newspapers employ hundreds of local journalists and publish thousands of local stories, and during election periods are often the only media dedicated to reporting on local election issues.
An equitable share of government advertising will help ensure that regional newspapers remain a beacon of truth, connection and resilience.
We need to act now for change.
Fight for the future of regional and community newspapers by asking your local candidates to commit to an equitable allocation of government funds.
Will your MP fight to support regional and community news?
Authorised by Wendy Creighton, 7 Church St, Boonah QLD
MALANDA BULLRIDE
PLENTY of bull riding action kept the crowd entertained at the Malanda Bullride on Saturday night.
Thomas Triplett put on his best performance to take out the Open Bull ride, followed by Zac Southwell and Nash Mellers,
Caitlin Condon, Paityn Glaspy, Zahar Quilliam, Holly Taudevin and Keeley Brown. Shae Thorseorne and Lucey Mae.
Bailey Fallon and Bree Kirk at Saturday’s event.
while Scott Binnie from The Beef Joint was victorious in the popular Butchers vs Bullocks event.
Jai Koolatha.
Bulls
1st Joel Jaszczynszyn, 2nd Nate Lawson, 3rd Jack Dredge and James Warns.
Junior Bull Ride
1st Clint Gall, 2nd Lane Mifsud, 3rd Kash Turner.
Savannah in the Round was Julie and Taylor’s first country music festival, thanks to free passes they won at a trivia night in Brisbane.
Helen and Lindon were enjoying the festival.
Local musician Jeremy Fletcher drew many fans and passerby to the Rolling (Backyard) Stage at his Savannah performance.
Ashlyn (left), Amber, Jazlyn, Ninke and Cara were excited to see Kip Moore.
Kyle, Lucinda and Geoff liked the Mt Uncle Distillery stand.
Lead singer of the Roadtrippers put on a good show for the Sunday crowd.
Savannah wraps up
TENS of thousands of music-lovers flooded through the gates of Kerribee Park over the weekend as the annual festival Savannah in the Round returned for its fifth year.
The arena was bursting at the seams as the crowds continued to grow the lower the sun was setting and were up on their feet until the late hours.
The fifth birthday for the festival was by far the biggest yet and saw camping and parking spots completely full.
Camping tickets were all sold out days prior to the event and on Saturday there wasn’t a parking spot to be found, leaving attendees to park outside or as the close to the venue as possible and walk.
Kicking off Savannah in the Round with engaging performances on Friday night was Lee Kernaghan, Tyler Hubbard and The Living End.
Hubbard was the highlight of the night, putting on a great performance and enjoying the atmosphere of the country festival.
The biggest day of the weekend was Saturday, with thousands of people from across the country coming to experience the remarkable acts of James Johnston and Kip Moore.
Johnston started off the night with a high energy performance and highly engaging crowd interactions and was highly regarded among festivalgoers.
The crowd erupted into cheer as Moore ran on the stage with thousands of fans singing along to every word of his songs.
Sunday saw lively performances from Sheppard, Hindley Street Country Club and Jon Stevens.
Sonya, Rena, Sharon and Kim let loose at Savannah in the Round.
Farah, Maia and Shakira were excited to watch James Johnston.
Stewy Worth (left) travelled from El Arish and Sue Scott travelled from Cooktown to attend Savannah in the Round, and both thoroughly enjoyed Jeremy Fletcher’s performance.
James Johnston gave young fan Molly a huge thrill by bringing her up onto the stage during his performance.
Cairns locals Dave and Peter enjoying their Sunday afternoon.
Zakk Zedras of Chocolate Starfish shredding on electric guitar.
WHAT WE WILL HAVE TO OFFER
AT CONSTANCE STREET IN 2025
NATURE PLAY
An outdoor environment fostering nature-based play.
A well-equipped commercial kitchen providing healthy meals for children. Coffee will be available for purchase FOOD, COFFEE & COMMERCIAL KITCHEN
CREATIVE LEARNING SPACE
A creative area providing new educational opportunities.
BABIES SANCTUARY ü
A separate area exclusively designed for babies care and comfort.
Our Council Our Community
ARE YOU READY THIS DISASTER SEASON?
Get Ready
Would you be ready if a fire, flood, storm or cyclone happened in our community? That’s a question every Tablelander needs to ask themselves this disaster season.
It’s never too early to start making preparations. Head to getready.qld.gov.au for information, advice, resources and more.
Preparation Is Key
Being prepared for severe weather is part and parcel of living in Far North Queensland. Follow these three simple steps to reduce the impacts of disasters on you, your family and community:
1. Understand your risk. Find out what, when and where a disaster might happen, how severe it could be, and if you could be affected.
2. Have a plan. Talk about what action everyone in your household would take in a disaster, where you might go and how you will keep in touch.
3. Pack an emergency kit. Find out what you should pack into your kit at getready.com.au/check-out-what-you-need Store your kit somewhere safe and accessible.
Pets & Livestock
Your animals are your responsibility and remain so during disasters. Planning ahead will ensure the safety and welfare of your pets and livestock. Find out how to prepare your animals for disasters, how to care for them during and after disasters, and what you can do to ensure their safety at trc.qld.gov.au/get-ready
Safe Places
It’s important to follow instructions from authorities when it comes to evacuating. Depending on the disaster, the best place to shelter may be your own home. Make arrangements to stay with family, friends or accommodation providers if you are concerned. If places of refuge and evacuation centres are available, they are the last resort for people with no other safe alternatives.
UHF-CB Channel 10
Have you thought about what you might do if landlines, mobiles and internet fail during or after a disaster? The UHF-CB radio network is an alternative that is accessible without a license. Tune into UHFCB Channel 10.
We have installed three repeaters to enable communication across greater distances:
• Atherton — repeater channel 1
• Mount Garnet — repeater channel 2
• Millaa Millaa — repeater channel 3. Ensure you are familiar with the rules and requirements for using different channels and repeaters.
Community Disaster Teams
We have community disaster teams in Herberton, Malanda, Millaa Millaa, Mount Garnet, Ravenshoe, Tinaroo/ Kairi and Yungaburra. These groups of passionate locals work with the Local Disaster Coordinator before, during and after disasters to ensure information flows between the Local Disaster Management Group and community. The level of involvement depends on the skill sets of members. Put your hand up to be a part of this important program by emailing trcd@trc.qld.gov.au
Stay Informed
• Monitor Bureau of Meteorology information at bom.gov.au
• Get up-todate local information from our Emergency Dashboard at dashboard.trc.qld.gov.au
• Like and follow our TRC Facebook and Instagram.
• Download a copy of the All Hazards Guide from trc.qld.gov.au
• Tune into local radio and tv stations and UHF-CB Channel 10.
• Find out more at trc.qld.gov.au/disaster-management.
Australian Warning System
The Australian Warning System (AWS) is a national approach to information and warnings during bushfires, floods, storms, extreme heat and severe weather.
AWS warnings provide information about a hazard, the expected consequences and what you should do.
There are three warning levels:
Advice (yellow)
An incident has started. There is no immediate danger. Stay up to date in case the situation changes. Watch & Act (orange)
There is a heightened level of threat. Conditions are changing and you need to start taking action now to protect you and your family.
Emergency Warning (red)
The highest level of warning. You may be in danger and need to take action immediately. Any delay now puts your life at risk.
The Mareeba International Club is a community not-for-profit organisation that was born from very humble beginnings, and is situated on the Mareeba Dimbulah Road since 1969, on the outskirts of Mareeba heading to Dimbulah.
Born from the masses of Italian immigrants coming to Mareeba & Dimbulah and its environs, who were searching for a better life for their families circa early 1950’s through to the early 1970’s.
Italy as a nation, at that time, was simply unable to provide for its people after being ravaged in the 2nd world war, in particular by the German occupation.
The lure of work, a better future, in a foreign country, growing, picking tobacco as the major drawcard, was indeed a chance for a new start and the opportunity to truly provide for their families. Both in Australia and back in their old home in Italy.
Rich History Kitchen Renovation
Italians being so well renowned for their love of food, wine and song, the coming together to create a social
gathering and meeting place at the Mareeba International Club was indeed a natural evolution of their Italian culture in Australia, which this year will enjoy its 55th year, and all members of this wonderful organisation are proud to be part of the integral social fabric of the wider Mareeba community meeting place.
Playing social Briscola card games on a Saturday and Sunday afternoon is still a happening thing at the International Club, although the Club itself now, is very much a multicultural facility, providing a social outlet for small and large functions, which go well beyond just Italian dinner dances and the like. Catering and providing functions as wide a field as lavish weddings, multicultural nights, commercial events and fairs, trade shows, debutante balls, musical concerts and the list goes on.
Recently, the club underwent a significant change in leadership, with a new young executive committee and team taking the reins to assist in making sure the Mareeba International Club will transition into a new exciting phase ensuring its longevity and ongoing success.
However, the joy was short lived, when on the 17th of December 2023, no one could have envisaged the devastation from the massive rain event North Queensland endured, with the club having sustained massive water damage, internally, and roof damage. Putting a financial dampener on the committees’ financial upgrades and extensions plans.
Through the generosity and assistance from the Bendigo Bank Community Grants, a new roof was replaced in the first quarter of 2024. Who without their help the clubs President Kristen Mete admits, it would have been a very hard road.
Along with other strategic grant planning, and restructuring, the Mareeba International Club took the opportunity to refurbish their kitchens, add solar power to their facility, revamping their foyer as well.
The Club has recently reintroduced its massively popular pasta nights as a fantastic way to bring the community togeth-
er, offering delicious affordable meals and a chance for people to connect and socialise at a very affordable price.
By continuing to innovate and involve the community, the Mareeba International Club can strengthen its role as a central hub for social activities and community bonding.
95+% of the work to maintain, operate and market the Mareeba International Club is done by volunteer labour. Which today, is quite a feat in itself.
The young team that now operate the International Club, work and live to pay homage to their forefathers, who had a vision to make this special part of Mareeba live on.
This year sees the return of our unofficial adopted ambassador Joe Avati. A co-
median who has always called Mareeba home, when he visits North Queensland. Joe embarked on his professional journey as a comedian some 24 years ago. On his very first national tour he started his life journey at the Mareeba International Club, performing his very first gig at the club. The rest for Joe, has been history. Holding the keys to Toronto City, Canada, touring globally, to packed houses no matter wherever he goes. We honour and thank Joe for taking the time out of his busy schedule to remember his humble beginnings returning to reunite with the Mareeba International Club and their team to do a one night only concert in December. Tickets available online. For club function bookings phone 4092 2715.
HOME HOME sweet
Making waste count in the garden
COMPOSTING has been given a new lease of life as homeowners try to reduce the waste going to landfill and realise the many benefits of using food waste for a good purpose.
or creating a quiet space for reading, your patio area is really an important extension of your home.
Mareeba Shire Council will be hosting special free composting workshops this month and in early November to help residents learn about the benefits, how to get stated and how to manage any problems.
If you love your outdoor space, why not take the time now to spruce it up and give it a fresh look so you enjoy gathering there on those warmer nights just around the corner.
The Mareeba workshop will be held at the Sports Hall at Arnold Park on 26 October from 1.30pm-3.30pm, while the Mutchilba session will be held at the town’s Community Centre on 2 November (same time). Online bookings are essential and can be made by calling 1300 308 461.
The great thing is that there is so much more choice nowadays in regard to outdoor furniture, lighting, rugs and accessories, making it easier to create a space that suits your tastes and budget.
Council’s fact sheet on its website offers locals detailed information on how to get composting and the benefits of worm farms.
suited to long-term use on your patio.
Some new bright throw cushions and a new rug will help set the mood.
Lighting is key to comfortable outdoor living - no one wants to be blinded by bright “blue” lights, so hunt around for some lamps and bulbs that will throw a more user-friendly yellow glow on the space.
Place the lamps strategically in corners and near chairs to create an ambiance that will make the area inviting and peaceful.
with a cubic metre.
There are some wonderfully clever ideas how to use lighting to really change the appearance of the space - installing them along stairs for example, or highlighting some outdoor pots or art pieces.
in a bin.
• Control excess moisture with more brown materials but keep damp.
beautiful pots planted with colourful flowers or interesting plant species to really top off the look of your patio area.
• If turned regularly, your soil should be ready in approximately three months. If not, it may take six or more months. It will appear crumbly and smell earthy.
WORM FARMS
Of course, if you really want to elevate your outdoor living area, you could install your own outdoor kitchen – big or small. Even adding in a small sink next to your barbecue can be really handy for being able to rinse dishes or glasses without having to go inside.
Benefits:
• Suitable for small spaces and doesn’t need turning or lots of brown material like compost.
• Liquid fertiliser (worm tea) and cast ings for the soil.
Of course, there are the “limousine” versions which are expensive to construct but many will tell you it’s worth the money in the long-term to be able to host functions for family and friends completely outdoors.
• A compost bin is for smaller volumes, and tumbler bins make turning your compost even easier. Using two bins, or the one divided into two parts helps divide the different stages of compost, so you can add new material to one, while letting the other mature.
Choose a method:
• In-ground: using a pipe or bottom less bucket for scraps, placed into a garden bed - worms will come up to feed.
BENEFITS OF USING FOOD
WASTE IN THE GARDEN
Lots of small touches can make a difference but take some time and look at the area to consider whether this year is the one you replace those tired old floor pavers or re-fresh your timber decking.
Consider the furniture you have – is it susceptible to mould or dirt?
Consider some new pieces and make sure the fabric and style will be
• Nutrient rich additives for your garden, eliminating the need for chemical fertilisers and manure, helping save money. This also supports plant health, helping them fight off disease.
• Helping soils to retain moisture, so you don’t need to water them as frequently.
COMPOSTING METHODS
• A heaped compost is for large vol umes but needs to be further from the house, covered and maintained regularly to avoid vermin. Commence
Another great idea that can modernise an area and give it some life is a “green wall”. These can be created using a trellis and choosing the right plants that will thrive in this space. Most nurseries and hardware stores now stock exactly what you need to create this easily and at very little cost.
• Place your compost away from the hot sun and protect from rain.
Refreshing your accessories will finish the job and these days, there are so many inexpensive choices in the retail sector, it will cost very little to renew the lot.
GATHER A MIX OF MATERIALS
• Brown, carbon rich materials such as dried leaves, shredded paper, egg cartons, tree bark and straw.
At the very least, have some big,
• Green, nitrogen-rich materials like fruit and vegetables, scraps, coffee grounds, tea leaves, garden cuttings and grass clippings.
• Above ground: create a worm farm with a tap and many layers, or layer several containers with holes in them and a solid bottom base.
So, whether you have an expansive patio and outdoor space, or whether it’s just a small courtyard, you can do a lot to make this a welcoming area to enjoy your recreational time.
• Worms can be purchased from a garden or hardware store. They’re sensitive to extremes – keep out of the rain and direct sun.
Feed your worms:
2 cloves garlic, minced
gne sheets. Heat
MAKING YOUR COMPOST Keep layering brown and green
Serves: 6
INGREDIENTS
Turn your compost regularly – every three weeks if in a heap, or weekly
2 cups water
1 tsp olive oil
2 cups couscous
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 brown onion, diced
2 tsp ground ginger
1 tsp ground turmeric
2 tsp sweet paprika
1 tsp black pepper
• Worms thrive on scraps – everything from fruit and vegetable peelings to coffee grounds, dust or small paper materials.
• Avoid meat, dairy products, manures and acidic foods like orange peels, tomatoes and onions.
• Cover the worm bedding with hes sian or newspaper.
1 carrot, cut into large chunks
1 turnip or parsnip, cut into large chunks
1 cup pumpkin, cut into large chunks
1 zucchini, cut into large chunks
1 small eggplant, cut into large chunks
¼ green cabbage, cut into chunks
¼ cup flat leaf parsley, chopped
¼ cup coriander, chopped
400g can diced tomatoes
2 cups vegetable stock, salt reduced
400g can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 medium capsicum, diced
2 sticks celery, diced
2 medium carrots, diced
1 small eggplant, diced
1 medium zucchini, grated
1 cup mushrooms, diced
3 tbsp tomato paste
METHOD
400g can tomatoes, re-
and nutmeg in saucepan, add cornflour and stir until it thickens. Layer the tomato sauce, a lasagne sheet and white sauce in the baking dish. Repeat with two more layer. Sprinkle with cheese and bake for approximately 45 minutes to an hour.
Bring water and 1 teaspoon oil to a boil in a large sauté pan with a lid. Remove pan from heat, add couscous and stir through. Cover with lid and let stand for 5 minutes. Fluff couscous with a fork to separate grains. Cover and set aside.
Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and sauté until soft and translucent. Add spices and stir until fragrant, around 1 minute.
Add carrot and turnip and sauté until carrots begin to soften. Toss in pumpkin, zucchini, eggplant and cabbage, and sauté for a few more minutes before adding herbs, diced tomatoes and stock. Cover slightly and cook until vegetables are tender, about 20 minutes. Add chickpeas and mix, cooking until warmed through. Serve couscous first, topped with vegetables, broth and extra herbs.
Recipe courtesy of the Country Kitchens 2024 Country of Study Recipe Collection – Morocco
Serves: 6
INGREDIENTS
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, finely diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp ras el hanout*
500g lamb leg/shoulder, fat trimmed, diced into 2cm pieces
2 cups butternut or kent pumpkin, diced into 1cm pieces
*Note: use store-brought ras el hanout (Moroccan spice blend), or try the Country Kitchens ras el hanout recipe to make your own
METHOD
Preheat oven to 200°C. Heat oil over medium heat in the base of a tagine, or in a deep, ovenproof casserole dish with a lid. Add onion and garlic and stir until onion has softened. Add ras el hanout to onions and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, taking care not to burn the mix. Add lamb to pan and brown lightly on all sides. Add pumpkin, dates, toma-
ENTERTAINMENT
Kids to have a ball at folk festival
EXCITEMENT is building for the annual Tablelands Folk Festival later this month, and the event promises to be a big drawcard for the young ones.
The Kids Fest is part of the event which is held in Yungaburra each year and offers children some fantastic activities throughout the three days from 25-27 October.
Kids can chill at the TAFE Kaleidoscope Stage where they will get to enjoy young talents, music, and storytelling for kids or create and play with arts and crafts, dress-ups, face- painting, palm leaf weaving, and puppet play.
Here’s some of the great activities planned especially for kids at the festival: Facepainting by Crystal
Have your face painted ready for the Parade. Join the Parade create your costume, make a puppet and join Janggaburru, Bugzy Bumblebee, Dragonflies and the Playful Puppets in the Parade, as the whole festival comes together to celebrate, filling the street with colour, music and merriment.
Be sure to bring your Kazoo to take part in the Great Kazoo Challenge!
Bruce Watson - “Are We There Yet?”
Children delight in Bruce’s songs about blobfish, vampires, talking underpants, toddlers-with-attitude and food. And he asks the eternal question: Are we there yet? There’ll be plenty of audience involvement. BYO Knock Knock jokes!
Woody’s World Bush Cabaret Join Woody in this engaging show - it’s
a kaleidoscope of old-school fun that blends music, puppetry, theatre, ukulele playing and loads of participation.
Kids Ukulele Fun
Australia’s top uke experience for kids has already inspired over 10,000 young musicians and their families! Woody’s all
Herberton turns purple for annual festival
AS the trees change colour and the streets transform into a sea of purple, it’s time to welcome the Jacaranda Festival in Herberton.
This year’s Jacaranda Festival will be held this weekend and brings with it an amazing variety of activities.
The event begins on Saturday when Grace St will close (from William St to John St) from 9am to 3pm for the free Family Fun Day.
Starting at 10am and finishing at 3pm, there’ll be lots to see and do with a treasure hunt at the top of the list.
It’s not just any old treasure hunt though, organisers have gone “high-tech” and you can complete it on your smartphone - there’s also real treasure at the end.
Herberton Mining Museum will also open their doors with the volunteers joining in on the family day fun.
They’re holding a rolling tin panning competition, free guided tours of the Great Northern Mine, interactive displays, glow in the dark minerals, or head along for a self-guided walk.
Set in the historic village town of Herberton, within walking distance of the main street, there’ll be stalls, food trucks, Latin Dancers, Classic Cars Face Painting, Off road Buggy Rides, Steam Train Rides plus more at the Family Fun Day.
Don’t forget about the decorated bike competition – dress yourself and your bike up to take part.
Entries should move to the stage at noon –U9 years and 10-15 years – with awards for first and second in both categories. Judging starts at 12.30pm, with the winner presentations and grand parade to follow shortly afterwards.
There’ll also be live entertainment including a performance from Herberton local schools and bands.
With a change in location, Sunday’s event will take place at Herberton Railway Station at the bottom end of John Street.
The Atherton Herberton Historic Railway will fire up the 1913 Peckett Steam Train for rides
about turning everyone into music makers, not just listeners. Come strum along and discover your inner rockstar!
Bush Dancing for Kids and Families
Grab your partner and join in with the Heal and Toe and other dances. Woody will teach you all the steps so you can
Will Fitzgerald enjoyed the jacaranda flowers at last year’s festival.
from 10am to 2pm.
This year marks the 114th year birthday of the train line and the arrival of the first train in Herberton which will be celebrated on 20 October.
The team at Atherton-Herberton Historic Railway is offering tickets for steam train rides on both Saturday and Sunday; $20 for adults, $10 for children and family tickets will also be available.
Wander through the Railway Museum, take a Railway Workshop Tour, or just enjoy the historic town of Herberton.
During the weekend a number of businesses will open their doors including Historic Village Herberton, Bakerville Tea House, Herberton Jacaranda Cafe, High Grounds Coffee and Royal Hotel Herberton, plus others welcoming all visitors to town.
For more information visit herberton1880. com.au or follow Jacaranda Festival Herberton on Facebook or @jacarandafestivalherberton on Instagram.
swing your partner until the cows come home.
Bugzy Bumblebee
Bugzy brings wonder and joy to the festival with her happy energy and lots of bubbles. All weekend throughout the festival site.
Jack’s Noisy Day with Sarah
Join Jack as he embarks on a noisy adventure, making uproarious sounds for every letter of the alphabet from “A”to “Z”. Written and read by local author and musician Sarah Tinney. Join Sarah and Perry the puppet as they sing a variety of alphabet and word-based songs.
Tim Woodz for Kidz
Tim is spontaneous, energetic and warm, often singing about things that you wouldn’t think to write about, from possums on powerlines to backyard cricket with a some quirky antics to entertain.
Okka Wikka
Learn the time honoured skills of Palm leaf weaving with Kate and Katherine as you create special costume accessories using string fibres and coconut leaves.
Playful Puppetry Workshop
Construct and decorate a clay marionette to take home. $5 contribution to materials cost.
Janggaburru
Daniele Poidomani, one of Australia’s leading giant puppet artists, brings Giant Elder Janggaburru to life at the Festival to delight and inspire adults and children to consider our connection to the land on which we gather.
Woody’s World blends music and theatre together.
Bugzy Bumblebee brings a lot of joy with her bubbles.
ON LANDthe
Record global beef production
THE first half of 2024 was stronger than had been expected in global beef markets, with record production, export and import volumes in certain key countries, Rabobank says its recently-released Global Beef Quarterly.
Meanwhile, Australian beef production has remained high and exports hit new records as cattle prices have started to lift, the agribusiness banking specialist says in the quarter three report.
Report lead author, RaboResearch senior animal proteins analyst Angus Gidley-Baird, said beef markets had seen record production and exports in Brazil in quarter two, while China had a record volume of imports in the first half of the year.
Production volumes in the United States were higher than expected and prices in Europe had remained “remarkably strong”.
Looking forward, the report says, beef markets are waiting for signals of what is expected to unfold – most significantly a contraction in US production, improved cattle prices in Brazil and a possible reduction in consumption in the US following both the end of summer grilling season and persistent high beef prices.
Cattle prices continue on different trajectories across markets, with North American prices remaining at elevated levels and southern hemisphere prices – while still at significantly lower levels than the US – showing some signs of life, although Brazil’s prices have drifted lower.
Global beef production looks set to lift slightly in quarter four compared with quarter three, before falling into 2025, Rabobank says.
“Year on year though, higher production volumes in Australia expected in quarter four 2024 (up 4% on quarter three 2023) do not offset declines in Europe (-1%), New Zealand (-7%), Brazil (-3%), the US (-5%) and China (-2%),” Mr Gidley-Baird said.
Notwithstanding these declines, global beef production in quarter four is still expected to be 3.8% higher than the 10-year average.
“We then expect it will contract, mainly due to lower production volumes in the US and Brazil,” Mr Gidley-Baird said.
China – the world’s largest beef importer, taking 34.6% of total global trade in 2023 – has dominated global markets for the past five years, the report says.
But now, slowing economic growth and a declining population is seeing changing consumer trends in China which are impacting the beef product mix.
“The Chinese beef market still has ample growth potential, given
per capita consumption is lower than other developed Asian countries,” Mr Gidley-Baird said.
“However, new consumer trends are emerging which will change consumption. Overall, the premiumisation trend is slowing and consumers are pursuing both quality and value.”
He said while Chinese consumer markets showed a clear trend for pursuing value for money, consumption of beef was still growing, “albeit soft prices suggest more sensitivity to expensive cuts”.
“Rising beef consumption volumes, despite slower income growth in China, show consumers there are continuing to seek higher-quality proteins, but at reasonable prices,” Mr Gidley-Baird said.
“Currently, retailers and food service operators in China are under pressure to deliver cheap and basic cuts – such as shin, shank and belly – and good-value cuts at discounted prices. Chinese consumers have shifted to fundamental values – such as cost, taste, nutrition and dining experience – while the interest in luxury products, such as wagyu, have declined.”
The report says China imports a wide range of beef products from numerous countries, which are distributed through a variety of channels to different markets.
“Generally Chinese consumers have a higher acceptance of beef in frozen form compared with other meats, making imported beef easily distributed through retail channels,” Mr Gidley-Baird said.
Australia Production volumes and exports remain strong for Aus-
tralian beef, the report says.
Seasonal conditions continue to be favourable in most cattle-producing areas of the country, Mr Gidley-Baird said.
“Dry conditions in southern areas in the first half of the year have limited the numbers of heavy finished grass-fed cattle, but good seasonal conditions in the north continue to support high slaughter numbers,” he said.
“Weekly Australian cattle slaughter numbers remain around 140,000 head per week, up 20% on the five-year average. Given our expectations for the number of cattle in the system, we believe slaughter numbers will continue at these rates into the latter part of the year.”
The report says Australian beef export volumes in July this year (of 129,998 metric tonnes swt) were the largest volumes ever exported, passing previous peaks in 2019 and 2015.
Mr Gidley-Baird said Australian beef export volumes to the US for July 2024 were the highest since December 2015 and to Japan, the highest since March 2020.
The report said Australian cattle prices rose sharply in July, particularly finished steer and cow prices, which lifted 15% and 32% respectively in the month.
“Prices have since levelled off a little, but remain on an upward trajectory,” Mr Gidley- Baird said.
Veggie growers to embark on US study tour
A STUDY tour to be held in California next week will give Aussie vegetable growers insight into global innovations and emerging technology to support more efficient, productive and cost-effective systems.
Layden said.
The International Forum of Agricultural Robotics US Grower Study Tour will expose Australian growers to cutting-edge technological solutions and provide opportunities to connect with global leaders in the agriculture industry.
The tour will provide an opportunity to discuss the automation and mechanisation needs of the Australian vegetable industry and raise its profile as a market for the technologies.
Sixteen Australian growers, the Queensland Government, and Hort Innovation will attend the conference as part of a new $4.1 million initiative to boost the adoption of AgTech in the Australian vegetable industry.
“Australian vegetable growers have a strong interest in learning about the latest advancements in AgTech and identifying technologies applicable to Australian vegetable systems,” Department of Agriculture and Fisheries director vegetables, systems and supply chains, Ian
“The tour will offer more than 35 in-field technology demonstrations and solutions for speciality crops. There will be farm visits, networking opportunities with growers from around the world, and insights into the future of agricultural innovation.
“The ability to see a range of technologies working in the field will be a highlight and provide an opportunity for growers to directly engage with technology manufacturers.
“These opportunities will assist in identifying technologies applicable to Australian vegetable systems.”
Hort Innovation’s Brett Fifield said opportunities like this were essential for keeping Aussie growers at the front of global production advancements.
“A prosperous and sustainable horticulture industry built on innovation is absolutely critical. As a result, through Hort Innovation, we provide various opportunities for growers to be exposed to technology, be involved in trials and bring us their ideas, it’s a really exciting time,” he said.
TABLE grapes are fast becoming part of the local horticultural industry, with successful operations in Dimbulah, Mutchilba and Mareeba.
Officially established in 2019, Fairview Orchids, located at Dimbulah, is the only locally owned and operated farm of its kind in the region.
The 300-acre vineyard, which currently has 100 acres of table grape vine planted comprising several different varieties, is run by a young, local family and managed by a South African couple with decades of experience in the industry.
One of the farm’s main aims is to help fill a supply shortfall of Australian-grown table grapes during the winter months.
Woolworths and Coles fresh fruit charts show that from around July to October, almost 100% of table grapes are imported, mainly from the United States.
“We’re trying to cut out imported fruit from America, and Australia obviously wants to buy domestic fruit, so with the bigger we get and the more grapes we can grow, we can contribute to that happening,” operations manager Dean Soley said.
“We’re committed to reducing the need for that imported fruit by producing high-quality, locally grown table grapes.”
According to the Australian Table Grape Association, 70% of Australia’s table grapes come from Victoria while Queensland produces 8%, with the Mareeba area being the only supplier in Far North Queensland.
Also, the Mareeba Chamber of Commerce recently released a Tablelands Horticulture Profile for 2024 with preliminary data that showed table grapes contributed $68 million towards the total Gross Value Production in the area.
Fairview Orchards currently has a third of the farm’s capacity planted, boasting over 60,000 vines and, in the coming years, plans to have the entire property become a vineyard.
“Our goals for the future are focused on growth, sustainability and innovation. We aim to expand our vineyard and increase production, while continuing to refine our farming practices to adapt to the challenges of Far North Queensland’s climate,” Dean said.
“Over the next few years, we’ll look at expanding in stages as we work out what the better varieties are moving forwards.”
The picking season for the local farm kicks off in early August and runs until the end of September, spanning just eight weeks, with the rest of year consisting of regular upkeep and pruning of the vines.
WE SUPPLY:
• Fertiliser
• Chemicals
• Soil Analysis
• Great Advice
26 Reynolds Street, Mareeba Phone: 4092 2711
40-46 Eclipse Drive, Atherton Phone: 4091 3100
“We harvest by hand, and there’s a lot of labour involved in growing grapes. From planting, picking, pruning or putting covers over crops to protect from sunburn, it’s all done by hand,” Dean said.
“For us up here in Far North Queensland, we prune our vine twice a year whereas other growers down south and around the world only have to prune once a year.
“The vines go into dormancy in the cool temperatures, but up here they grow year-round consistently.”
Following the harvest, the fruit from the orchard circulate through a couple of local supermarkets and also makes its way down to the major cities.
“Locally, we sell them to Atherton IGA and this year we’ve began dispersing some of our grapes into Woolworths, that’s for our first-grade fruit.
“Our second-grade fruit usually goes into the Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne markets.”
The planting process involves acquiring grafted vines from a nursery that are planted in the ground every few metres. The vine then climbs a piece of string or twine where it will spread over 10 separate wires supported by V-shaped steel trellis.
“There would be 100s of kilometres of wire over the whole farm,” Dean said.
Following this, it takes approximately 14 months until the vine yields any fruit.
“Year one is a pretty low yield, year two and three it increases and then you start to get a consistent yield from year three onwards,” Dean said.
“We’re yet to know how long we can out of a vine up here, we’re six years in and are expecting about 10-15 years out of our vines before the yield
SUGAR REPORT
TABLELAND MILL CRUSHING STATISTICS
WEEK ENDING 06/10/2024
2024 Crop Estimate: 806,000 Tonnes
Total For Week: 27,605 Tonnes
Total Cane Crushed To Date: 562,932 Tonnes
Percentage Crushed: 69.84%
CCS For Week: 14.07
CCS Average To Date: 13.82
SOUTH JOHNSTONE MILL CRUSHING STATISTICS
WEEK ENDING 06/10/2024
2024 Crop Estimate: 1,137,000 Tonnes
Total For Week: 63,634 Tonnes
Total Cane Crushed To Date: 687,761 Tonnes
Percentage Crushed: 60.49%
CCS For Week: 12.05
CCS Average To Date: 12.05
starts to decline.
“I know that in cooler climates in South Australia, vines can last anywhere between 60-80 years, or more.”
Although a viable, long-term grape farm is yet to be proven in Dimbulah, Dean explained how they are learning on-the-go, including challenges faced in the annual wet season as well as bird damage.
“It’s still trial and error for us but it is very tough growing grapes here. We’re sort of pioneering because not many people up here have done it to this level on this scale,” he said.
“One of the challenges we face is the impact of the wet season. Heavy rains and prolonged periods of high humidity make it extremely difficult to manage disease in the crop, particularly fungal
diseases like powdery and downy mildew.
“To tackle that, we’ve had to implement strict disease management protocols including regular monitoring and preventative spraying. However, the timing of treatments is tricky because rain can wash away fungicides, making it less effective.
“We’ve also installed improved drainage systems to help keep the soil drier and reduce the risk of root rot.
“Another challenge we face is bird damage, which can significantly impact our crop yield.
“To address that, we’ve installed permanent bird netting to protect our grapes and reduce losses. This has helped safeguard the vines and maintain the quality of our fruit.
“Although, managing wildlife remains an ongoing effort,” Dean added.
Fairview Orchards is one of two grape growers in the Far North region.
LETTERS to the editor
Sort my science dilemma
JEREMY Tager, I find your letter (02/10/24) somewhat confusing and intriguing in the least and leaves me with several questions to which you may be able to provide “the science” answers.
“The science” states that there is more greenhouse gas present in the atmosphere than has been for millions of years. If this vast amount of methane from past tundra organics is entombed under the tundra ice, would that not indicate that in the recent geological past, the tundra was much warmer than at present?
Methane is photosynthetic created natural gas, as stored energy.
Q1; If the methane was emplaced when there was less greenhouse gas, what caused the warmer climate that created the methane producing organics, as there could have not been ice on the tundra at that time?
Q2; If there was more greenhouse gas when the methane organics were created, as the tundra was warmer at that time, there being ice cover at present, where did the greenhouse gas come from?
Q3; If there is more greenhouse gas warming the tundra at present, than when the entombed methane was created, why has the ice not already melted?
Q4; What caused the tundra to cool and ice entomb the vast amount of methane?
Q5; How does “the science” determine the present cool period that entombed the vast amount of methane is the standard normal climate, to be preserved, as opposed to the warm period that produced the entombed methane organics, being the norm?
I trust you comprehend and appreciate my dilemma.
Graeme Congdon MT GARNET
Worried about waterways
BEING a fourth generation, local and working and living in lots of areas in North Queensland, I’ve noticed a lot of environmental concerns on the Atherton Tablelands.
I am working up here at the moment and can’t believe the cattle are still walking all over the banks of waterways, creeks and major river systems like the Barron, causing massive amounts of damage and erosion to the local area as well as downstream and, of course eventually, the coastline.
You can see why all our major waterways and rivers silt up all the time and most of our fringing reefs are all but dead. During every wet season, massive amounts of muddy water come down the Barron and this been going on centuries and way before the 1970s, when the land was cleared of every tree on the Tablelands all the way up to the riverbanks. No acknowledgement for fauna and wildlife in the area and still no wildlife corridors.
Thanks to some people living up here, they are replanting certain areas like the cloud forest, but not one of the councils or Mayor have ever acknowledged the importance of ecosystems or what’s left on the Tablelands including the wildlife, which has probably been wiped out in some areas.
The Great Barrier Reef must be very tough to put up with this for centuries ,and the only thing councillors do now is approve more residential areas to take over this prime agricultural land for their own greed – a bit like Cairns.
Why would you ever vote for them when they do nothing in protecting what little of the environment we have left for the future generations. You only have to look at their developer mates clearing every tree on the new subdivision?
Or allowing development on our many floodplains.
I would also like to know where all the mon-
ey has gone that’s been given to farmers to better protect their land from run-off which is vegetating around waterways.
You don’t have to be a rocket scientist in protecting our major river systems etc and I’m sure some farmers have done the right thing but a lot haven’t as you will see in areas of the Atherton Tablelands as well including around Cairns and south down to Ingham - so what’s been happened to the money?
Ian Locke TABLELANDS
Get smart on waste
COUNCIL’S job is clear. Roads, rates and rubbish. Councillors are elected by ratepayers on their stated aims and vision.
Hopefully those elected have real life experience, preferably with a business background so that the council can operate efficiently with a popular mandate and within its stated budget.
With this in mind, it is difficult to understand why something as simple as rubbish, green waste in particular, causes so much confusion and stress resulting in multiple rule changes over the past year or so.
Even the waste management staff are often in the dark and customers are often asked to direct the questions and concerns to council.
ln the past, free green waste dumping and free mulch collection was a great idea. lt encouraged homeowners to be garden proud and also to keep trees and shrubs well trimmed and better prepared for strong wind and stormy conditions.
Ratepayers who hoard their waste finish up with large piles of palm fronds and tree branches that don’t break down for years. This creates breeding areas for rodents, cockroaches, cane toads and a popular spot for snakes.
These piles can also present real concerns during cyclonic conditions if they become airborne.
Grass clippings and leaves are about the only useful vegetation matter suitable for most homes as garden mulch.
A smart council would have recycling bins and, if not green waste bins, then at least free access to dumping it. I see no reason why homeowners should be discriminated against financially, because other owners elect not to be garden diligent.
I rarely fill my weekly bin but I don’t complain when I see many other bins regularly overflowing, despite the fact that we are paying the same rates.
Of course, this will Iead to illegal dumping or backyard burning or just ramming the green waste into the weekly wheelie bin and/or as previously stated, hazardous vegetation stockpiling.
I have never seen extra workers at the green waste site except for the chipper driver on chipping days. ln addition, I have rarely been weighed, just merely waved through and no one has ever taken my
name, address or registration number. I do recall that the resultant mulch at the site was being collected as fast as it was being mulched.
So, some of the facts being used to justify more changes to the green waste seem a little contrived, along with the casual dismissal of Kuranda residents, because it is their fault they live in the rainforest. Not the fact that they live 30 minutes’ drive away.
To my way of thinking, $140,000 (if true) would be a justifiable price to have a neat and tidy and well-presented town with no green waste hoarding, preventing pest breeding sites, no illegal dumping, a safer storm environment and, God forbid, happier ratepayers.
If the council need to desperately off-set the cost of this service, then start by downsizing its bureaucrats (one would do it) or elected councillor salaries.
Further savings would be made by not having to produce fact sheets on the costly proposed composting workshops to educate ignorant rural residents around the rural shire or what to do with your grass and leaves.
Remember, the council exists to serve and to consult, not to dictate.
Stan Thornton MAREEBA
Just the facts on climate
I AM commonly termed a climate change denier or sceptic. I am neither.
I am an earth scientist straddling the disciplines of geology, physics and chemistry and have been for the past 55 years and am a Fellow of four local and international professional associations that require adherence to strong ethical standards.
Many people do not realise that geology is intimately related to the study of the cyclical patterns of natural climate change. Actually, it involves multiple cycles of differing time spans superimposed on each other to produce a complex pattern of constant change.
These patterns are caused by cyclical wobbles and variations in earth’s orbit around the sun, which cause variability in the interaction of solar energy and cosmic radiation with greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.
The dominant organisation disseminating research into climate change is the UN’s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) set up in 1988 with the specific brief to accumulate evidence of human causes of change. All of a sudden, the study of human influence became a lucrative career wallowing in research funds.
Several prominent scientists seized on carbon dioxide and methane as known strong greenhouse gases to which human activity contributes some 4% of the total of those, the remainder being natural.
Right from the start in 1988, they started producing forward projection computer models using CO2 and CH4 as the main driving agents.
All of their models have been grossly wrong and the 1.5 degrees rise in the past 150 years is entirely attributable to the natural rebound from the historically documented Little Ice Age and the Urban Heat Island Effect on temperature measurement stations.
Jeremy Tager (Letters 02/10/24) referred to methane as “one of the most powerful and most abundant greenhouse gases”. Sure, it is powerful, but abundant? Hardly.
As I pointed out (Letters 18/09/24) carbon dioxide concentration is about one molecule in 25,000 molecules of the other atmospheric gases and methane is one in 500,000.
Meanwhile, water vapour, also a strong greenhouse gas is a minimum at any time and location of one molecule in every 100. That is plus 1%.
The Greenhouse Effect is a physical blocking effect whereby concentration is a critical factor.
It is not a chemical reaction as Jeremy claimed. I rest my case.
If folk doubt my story, I suggest they check out You Tube Climate: The Movie in which 12 of the world’s most eminent senior climate scientists independently confirm the story I have recounted above.
John Nethery CHILLAGOE
MPs there to do a job
WITH the State Election looming, I am seeking clarification pertaining to the rolls and responsibilities of elected members of parliament. As I understand it, members of parliament are elected to serve the public, they are provided with staffed offices within their respective electorates to assist with the provision of public service and are handsomely remunerated for doing so.
In the Hill electorate, incumbent Shane Knuth is vying for his fourth term highlighting juvenile crime, transport corridors, land valuations and subsidised bus services (Express 09/09/24) as his priorities if re-elected. If he cant even pick up the phone and return contact to those Wondecla residents (predominately pensioners and retirees) who have been lobbying him since April this year regarding the unnatural feral wallaby population explosion in the Wondecla area, you can understand why I and other landholders in the Wondecla district remain extremely doubtful of his ability to address any bigger ticket items such as juvenile crime, transport corridors, land valuations and subsidised bus services.
Brian Stewart WONDECLA
Have respect for heritage
IT is with great sadness I read in last week’s Express of the Tablelands Regional Council’s decision to demolish Malanda’s iconic Igloo, one of only three remaining on the Tablelands.
Decisions like this are why in Australia we don’t appreciate our built heritage. Having lived in Brisbane during the demise of the Belview Hotel and Cloudland Ballroom, I wonder if we will ever learn.
In 1992, while travelling in Europe, I found several places where restoration was taking place that long after the second world war. Some examples, the summer palace in St Petersburg, the town square and cathedral in Nuremburg.
But, of course, the Europeans have respect for their heritage unlike this country where we see heritage is in the way of so-called progress. Environmental vandals - TRC hang your heads in shame.
Gary Hardy MALANDA
Cattle industry doing its bit
IN regard to Jeremy Tager’s misinformed Letter to the Editor (02/10/24), I would like to present a few facts about the cattle industry.
The Australian beef industry’s goal is to be carbon neutral by 2030; ahead of most other industries in Australia and around the world.
The industry has cut greenhouse gas emissions by 78% since 2005, more than any sector in Australia. We directly employ around 190,000 people and support another 245,000 jobs in Australia, and beef processing is the biggest manufacturing industry in Queensland.
Almost 60% of beef producers are either purchasing renewable energy or generating their own on property.
Add to this our $20.1 billion contribution to Australia Gross Domestic Product with a total industry turnover of around $75 billion, makes our producers some of the most efficient in the world.
Australia is the world’s second largest beef exporter, exporting to over 100 countries worldwide which underlines its reputation for producing safe red meat.
Jermey, you are certainly entitled to your opinion but please get your facts right.
(Sources: CSIRO and MLA)
Alan Pedersen KARMA WATERS
Secure your dream lifestyle at Amaroo Estate’s Stage 13B
IMAGINE building your dream home in the heart of Amaroo Estate’s exclusive Stage 13B, nestled along Moondani Avenue and Karobean Drive. With only 18 premium lots available, each offering wide frontages and full access to essential amenities like town water, underground power, sewerage, and high-speed NBN, this is your chance to secure a prime piece of Mareeba’s most desirable land.
These spacious lots, ranging from 875sqm to 1164sqm, provide the perfect foundation to design a home that suits your lifestyle, whether it’s for a growing family or your own private retreat.
Don’t miss this limited opportunity to make your dream a reality in 2024. Call Ryley on 0409 321 000 for any information or to arrange an onsite inspection at a time that suits you.
Follow us on our socials or check out our website www.amarooestate.com.au for all updates regarding our upcoming stages.
•
•
•
•
•
Stunning, brand new family home
WELCOME to this brandnew, contemporary masterpiece that combines style, comfort, and practicality—ideal for families or savvy investors. This home boasts four spacious bedrooms, each equipped with built-in wardrobes and air-conditioning for yearround comfort. The master suite is a true retreat, featuring a luxurious ensuite and an expansive walk-in robe.
At the heart of the home lies the sleek, open-plan kitchen, thoughtfully designed with an abundance of storage, an island bench, dishwasher, and a double fridge cavity. Whether you’re an avid cook or love to entertain, this kitchen caters to all your needs.
The living area is a showstopper, with floor-to-
ceiling windows that bathe the space in natural light, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. These windows not only elevate the aesthetic but also seamlessly connect the indoors to the beautiful outdoors.
Outside, the landscaping has been professionally designed, featuring stunning retaining walls and established gardens. With built-in watering systems in place, maintaining the greenery is effortless. The low-maintenance landscaping enhances the home’s curb appeal, while the fully fenced yard offers
privacy and security—perfect for families with children or pets. For added convenience, the property features a large internal laundry with direct external access. A two-car garage with internal entry ensures both security and ease of access. Whether you’re searching for a family home or an outstanding investment, this property has it all. Contact marketing agent Kaydee Chatfield at
St Real Estate on 0417 468 941 for more details today.
Please note internal photos provided in this listing are for Unit 2 which has a great tenant in place. Current rent is $330/pw and lease expires on 24th January 2025.
both units to have side access with double gates.
• Total lot size is 1083m2 with each side having exclusive use to approx 520m2 or 560m2.
Unit 1 will be sold with vacant possession and photos will be taken shortly. Inspections welcome from Tuesday 15th October.
Please register your interest with exclusive agent Michelle Raso on 0428 116 136 today.
Delightful three bedroom elevated home in Atherton
COMBINING modern styling with timeless elegance, this delightful 3-bedroom family home perfectly combines comfort, style and natural beauty from an elevated position. Nestled on a generous 856 sqm block, this property is a true gem, offering an ideal retreat for families and entertainers alike.
Key Features:
• Bedrooms: 3 spacious bedrooms, each featuring built-in robes, providing ample storage and comfort for the whole family.
• Bathrooms: 1 well-appointed 3-way bathroom, designed for both functionality and relaxation.
• Living Space: Enjoy the open and airy layout, highlighted by a separate dining room with wrap-around views - perfect for family gatherings and entertaining guests.
• Outdoor Oasis: Step outside to discover a fully fenced yard, complete with a beautifully landscaped garden and an outdoor entertaining area. The serene waterfall cascading into the pond adds a touch of tranquility to your outdoor environment.
• Parking: A double garage
Address:
Price: Agent:
ensures secure parking and additional storage options.
• Storage: Inside and out there are numerous storage options including a lock-up space which could serve as office or shed.
• Elevated Position: This home boasts stunning mountain views with breathtaking sunsets, making it a picturesque backdrop for your daily life.
• Freshly painted interiors that exude elegant and modern charm.
• Internal laundry with masses of storage for added convenience.
• Cement rendered interior walls for durability and low maintenance.
Situated in a peaceful neighborhood, it offers the perfect blend of privacy and accessibility. Enjoy the tranquility of suburban living while being just a short drive away from local amenities, schools and parks.
Don’t miss this opportunity to own a piece of paradise in Atherton. Contact Collette Rowston to arrange a viewing to experience the charm of this beautiful home.
• Power will be available for connection at the front of the allotment
• No building covenants
• Stunning 180-degree rural views
• Rubbish collection and school bus service
a weekender.
• Zoned Rural •
and
Malanda
Atherton
Charming elevated private home with views
Just move right in
LOCATED on a ‘No Thru’ road with 360° rural views to infinity and beyond... this private elevated 2,921 sqm block is located just minutes from Malanda.
The unique 500sqm under roof home was built in 1994, with a view from every room and natural light throughout, creating an abundance of tranquillity and serenity.
A place to unwind, take in the scenery and watch the world go by! Having Cathedral ceilings, exposed timber beams and posts within the house add a beautiful architectural touch and rustic charm.
The open plan living areas can be closed off to every bedroom to take full advantage of the two high performance reverse cycle air-conditioners or open the house right up to enjoy the naturally air-conditioned Tablelands through the cross ventilation of the well designed home, the electric
TUCKED away peacefully at in Mareeba, this gorgeous home is an entertainer’s delight. Situated on the edge of town this spacious 4,003m2 allotment allows you to feel a world away, with the convenience of being a few minutes to town and right near St Stephens Catholic College.
If you love to cook and entertain than this kitchen is sure to impress. With plenty of cupboard space, a dishwasher, island bench/breakfast bar and a handy butlers pantry this kitchen has convenience in mind. The garage is located off the kitchen as well, to make carrying in groceries a breeze.
The easy-flow layout has the lounge room located on one side of the kitchen, a study nook along the way, and the open dining space of the other side, with sliding glass doors to the outdoor entertaining area.
The master suite is extralarge with plenty of cupboard space, split-system air-conditioning and an en-suite bathroom. The other two bedrooms also feature built-ins and aircons, and are convenient to the main bathroom and internal laundry.
Outdoor entertaining is
fire place is another added feature piece.
The family home can be utilised as a whole, a weekend retreat or Airbnb, work from home with the exceptional NBN service, the options are endless.
Features of the remarkable home include:
• Open plan living areas with air-con and electric fire place
• Refurbished kitchen with all new appliances - ceramic cooktop, rangehood, fanforced oven, convection microwave), dishwasher, feature pendant lighting, modern and new benchtops, pull out drawers, utilities storage and 2 pantry cupboards
• Master suite with large ensuite, two sets of robes and private sunroom
• Three double sized bedrooms with robes
• Mezzanine loft overlooking the open plan living areas,
useful as a 5th bedroom or office with under eave storage
• Spacious main bathroom with spa, shower, toilet and incorporating the internal laundry with ample storage
• Studio on level one (accessed from side of house) with feature lighting/fan, massive glass doors and windows, double blinds and outdoor balcony to take in relaxation, yoga, entertaining, meditation with magnificent views of the green hills and cattle from the 1500 acres that surrounds the property
• Three spacious outdoor entertaining areas, servicing all year round outdoor space
• Five seater top of the range hydrotherapy oasis spa with 78 jets situated in large undercover entertainment area capturing beautiful rainforest, sunset and mountain views
• Undercover tandem garage with open-air hard stand parking for many more cars; outdoor shower equipped with hot water
• Lockable garage/workshop with roller door and personal door access conveniently installed with kitchenette, shower & toilet
made easy here with a large, tiled back patio, a fenced yard space and a fire pit area as well. Sitting on just under an acre you have plenty of room to build the shed of your dreams, add a pool or park the caravan down the back. The choice is yours!
Features include:
• Solid concrete block home
• 3 bedrooms, all with built-ins and air-cons
• Large master suite, en-suite
• 2 bathrooms
• Entertainers kitchen with
houses l land l units l investments l acreage l farms l rentals
PROMINENTLY positioned overlooking bushland surrounds with stunning views to Mount Emerald this grand 5 bedroom family home exudes a relaxed opulence and offers multiple indoor and outdoor living options plus room for everything as well as the extended family all encompassed on an expansive 4 acre allotment positioned for privacy. Quality constructed of double brick with hardwood trusses, 900mm eaves & 2.8m high ceilings the home is meticulously presented and offers an extensive list of features including:
• Approx 542m2 floorplan consisting of 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms & 2 toilets plus multiple living areas & patios
• Massive air-conditioned internal layout incorporating a sunken lounge, separate din-
OPEN HOME
Saturday 19 October 10am to 11am
ing & living areas, generous central kitchen & enclosed patio/gym area as well as a 2nd screened patio/entertainment area overlooking the in-ground pool
• Substantial bedrooms, 5th bedroom separated by the living area with adjacent bathroom & toilet – perfect for guests or extended family
• Sunken lounge with fireplace feature
• Massive living room with builtin brick bar
• 2 enclosed patios, one with built-in bbq area adjoining a large covered entertainment patio leading out to the pool
• 40,000L Compass selfcleaning pool with advantage in-built cleaning system & automated chemical doser
ESCAPE to the enchanting landscapes of Danbulla, where an extraordinary lifestyle awaits on 80.7 hectares (199.5 acres) of breathtaking land. Just an hour from Cairns, this stunning property offers privacy and tranquility, making it a retreat for those seeking a sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
The land includes approximately 130 acres of improved pasture including varieties such as Brachiaria, Setaria with premium legumes like Pinot Peanut and Tinaroo Glycine, perfect for both breeding and fattening livestock.
With eight fenced paddocks each with trough water, managing your land has never been easier. The property also features a 7 Meg dam, providing ample water resources. A machinery shed and workshop cater to your
• Sizeable, brick & tile central kitchen with walk-in pantry & servery window to the patio
• Main bathroom tiled to the ceiling with corner spa bath
• Energy efficient led lights, tinted windows & security screens + multiple tv & power points throughout
• Sizeable fully tiled double garage
• 1000L stainless steel rainwater tank plumbed into the kitchen
• 4kw solar power system & solar hot water
• 2ML gravity fed water alloca-
Address: Price: Agent:
Contact:
tion + 20,000L concrete storage tank & pressure pump
• 9m x 6m powered shed with 15amp power point, 2 x roller door access & covered walkway from the house
• 1.63ha allotment with manual pop-up irrigation around the house
This meticulously kept home has been designedand built, to offer an exceptional lifestyle.
For further information or to arrange a private inspection contact exclusive agent Joe Torrisi on 0417 700 468.
288 Tinaroo Creek Road, MAREEBA Contact Agent EXCLUSIVE to Joe Torrisi Joe Torrisi Real Estate 0417 700 468
hobbies and practical needs, while parking for up to six vehicles ensures convenience for family and friends.
The property is a nature lover’s dream; explore winding rainforest walking tracks that lead to the adjacent World Heritage area. With over 1 km of pristine frontage along Severin Creek, this property is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
Step inside the homestead and discover a spacious sanctuary designed for comfort and relaxation. With four generously sized bedrooms, two bathrooms one of which features a claw foot tub, there’s plenty of space for family and friends to unwind.
The front and rear decks create perfect settings for entertaining or simply enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of coffee as you soak in the beauty surrounding you. This is more than just a property; it’s an invitation to embrace a lifestyle defined by beauty, serenity, and bounadless potential. Don’t let this rare opportunity slip away, experience the magic of Danbulla and make this dream home your reality. For more
TAKE A BREAK EXPRESSO
CROSSWORD
21. Lift or pull abruptly or with effort. (5)
23. An enclosure for pet birds, typically made of wire or cane. (9)
25. A tiny trace or spark of a specified quality or feeling. (9)
26. A right-hand page of an open book, or the front of a loose document. (5)
27. Very eager to get something. (7)
28. In the same manner or to the same extent. (7)
DOWN:
1. The holding or expression of opinions at variance with those commonly or officially held. (7)
2. The building where a Jewish assembly or congregation meets for religious worship and instruction. (9)
3. In, at, or to that place or position. (5)
4. Domestic fowl, such as chickens, turkeys, ducks, and geese. (7)
M H F M C M
U R I N E A J K F Q R R A L I C I G E
W C N E C K L A C E Y F A T P R L V T
B Q X C E K C O L C N W A H U H C V A
S
S Y M P A T H E T I C R U G B Y B Q E
ACROSS:
1. The working surface of a desk. (7)
5. (of temperature) lower than zero; below freezing. (7)
9. From a time in the past until the time under consideration, typically the present. (5)
10. Not having or showing any feelings of superiority, self-assertiveness, or showiness. (9)
11. A kitchen utensil used for beating ingredients. (9)
12. A member of a people forming a minority of the population of Rwanda and Burundi but who formerly dominated the Hutu majority. (5)
13. Closely and firmly. (7)
15. (with reference to a scent, sound, etc.) pass or cause to pass gently through the air. (7)
17. The action of imitating the behaviour or manner of someone, especially in an absurd or unthinking way. (7)
19. A large log traditionally burnt in the hearth on Christmas Eve. (4,3)
5. A small Old World bird related to the weaver birds, typically with brown and grey plumage. (7)
6. Large in quantity; abundant. (9)
7. Expel (someone) from a property, especially with the support of the law. (5)
8. Continuing; still in progress. (7)
14. A person who cheats or deceives people. (9)
16. Lacking sense or clear, sound reasoning. (9)
17. A disorder that affects how you communicate. (7)
18. A part of the story of a book or play that develops separately from the main story. (7)
19. A distance or length measured in yards. (7)
20. A province of the southwestern Kingdom of France. (7)
22. Celtic language. (5)
24 A horn-shaped projection of the thyroid cartilage. (5)
WEEKLY HOROSCOPES
Get together with friends for some competitive physical activities. Maybe it’s time to look into ways you can improve your health. Entertainment should include sports events or physical activities. A lack of support and negativity have been the main problems.
You can handle situations that require contact with institutions or large corporations. You may find that someone you live with is not too happy, but you can’t really do anything about that right now. You can bet officials will be waiting for you when you do.
Don’t allow your lover to take advantage of your good nature. Don’t jump into investments too quickly. Friendships could be terminated quickly if disappointments occur. Try to keep to yourself; work diligently on domestic chores and responsibilities.
Your courage and willpower will enable you to get rid of destructive habits. Dig deep, ferret out any hidden concerns be fore you sign your life away Don’t take your frustrations out on the ones you love. Romantic opportunities will develop through friends or relatives.
Don’t let your mate talk you into going somewhere you’d rather not go. Focus on what’s important rather than spreading yourself too thin and accomplishing little. Travel should be on your agenda. Don’t take your frustrations out on loved ones.
Someone you least expect may not have your best interests at heart. You will upset your partner if you have spent money on things that aren’t necessary. You will be able to close any deals successfully. Uncertainties about your personal life are probable.
Your interest in helping others may take you back to school. You can dazzle members of the opposite sex with your quick wit and aggressive charm. You should expect to have changes in your home. Children may pose a problem if they don’t like suggestions.
Try not to be too harsh with your mate. Build on friendship rather than starting out in an intimate encounter. Uncertainties about your home may cause tension. You can make reasonable bids on real estate or large items for your home.
Disputes on the home front may be hard to avoid. Get help to finish a project if you need it. The knowledge you have will enhance your reputation. New romantic partners will evolve through group endeavors; however, the association
You might find that a coworker has been two faced. You will have a problem with your boss if you haven’t done your job. Finish those changes you’ve been talking about making to your residence. Opportunities for travel must be
You have two choices; Get out on your own, or bend to your mate’s whims. You may not be as well received in group endeavours if you try to force your will on others. Be sure to get involved in self improvement programs that will connect you with interesting people.
You may be thinking of starting your own business. Your ability to deal with others will help you accomplish your goals. Don’t let others bully you into agreeing with them. Overstatement will be your downfall.
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!
Harry Potter (Joseph) and Pirate Rieley in their awesome Book Week costumes.
William (back left) and Woody (Deo), (front left) Thing 1 (Wyatt) and Spiderman (Byron) enjoying stop, drop and read time with principal Max Rivett.
Skylah-Pearl (left) and Brydie reading with Mrs Acha.
One of the local police officers attending Book Week to help the kids engage in learning and reading.
Captain America (Axl), Anika and Marine reading with Mrs Gallo the witch.
The kids playing with each other.
The Mareeba Shire Council Library celebrated book week.
IN LOVING MEMORY OF FINN, Lucy Adelaide (Nee Gentile)
Late of Mareeba. Passed away peacefully at Mareeba Hospital on Monday the 7th of October, 2024. Aged 91 years.
Much loved Wife of John Finn (Dec.). Loving Mother of Joanne, Karen, Patricia, Jeffrey and their families. Will be sadly missed by all family and friends.
A private service will be held by the family.
IN MEMORIAM
IN LOVING MEMORY OF Vojko Ivičević 10/02/1931 ~ 20/10/2021
Always in our Hearts. Ivka, Jozica, Mirko, Boris and Families.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY
Prolaze nam Godine, Mjesci I Ljeta, Da si Vojko Isao ti, Sa ovog Svijeta. Prolaze Godine, Mjeseci I Dani, Evo Tri su Godine, Da ti nijesi snami. Iako te Nema, Vise medu nama, U Srcrima nasim, Zauvjek si snama.
Tvoja Žena Ivka, Jozica, Mirko, Boris I Obitelji.
Congratulations!
DANAE TESS TOSONI ~~ 17th October ~~ With love forever, Dad, Mum & Eric. H
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 GEORGE, Nell Margarat (Nee Anderson)
Late of Mareeba. Passed away peacefully at Mareeba Hospital on Wednesday 9th October. Aged 96 years.
Much loved Wife of Colin. Loving Mother of Peter (Dec.), Melanie and Lynelle. Grandmother of 6, Great Grandmother of 8 and more to come. Will be sadly missed by all family and friends. Nell was a friend to all. Relatives and friends of Nell are respectfully invited to attend her funeral which is to be held at St. George’s Anglican Church, 53 Constance Street, Mareeba on Monday 21st October commencing at 11:00am. Privately cremated.
The years are passing, Months and years, That you Vojko have left, From this Earth. The years are passing, Months and days, It’s 3 years, That you aren’t with us. You’re not here with us, You’re in our Hearts. Always in thoughts, Your wife Ivka, Jozica, Mirko, Boris and Families.
IN LOVING MEMORY OF GIOVANNI BARBAGALLO
03/04/1910 ~ 14/10/1976
And MARIA BARBAGALLO
26/5/1920 ~ 27/12/2009
Happy 21st DANAE
Wishing you a wonderful birthday. With love and best wishes, Nonna Angela, Zio Franco & Zia Senyonn, Zia Andrea & Greg
To my best fishing buddy!
Happy Birthday Danae
So proud of you. Love Dad. XX
Always in our thoughts, forever in our hearts. Sadly missed by their children Maria, Alfia, Sam and their families.
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
November,
and Lorraine Dwyer OF ATHERTON Congratulations on your 60th Wedding Anniversary On Thursday 17th October, 2024. You are an inspiration to us all. Lots of Love from Jeff, Preston, Donna, Darryl, Kieran, Isla, Kaiden, Jess, Lauren, Andrew, Neil, Stacy, Luke and Alexandra.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY
remembered by his loving Wife Mary & Family.
Danae Tosoni Happy 21st Birthday 17/10/2024 Congratulations!! Love & best wishes from all your Nonnos, Nonnas, Zios, Zias, Uncles, Aunties, Cousins & Friends everywhere. FOR RENT
UNIT FOR RENT Mareeba 2x bedrooms, bathroom. P: 0407 925 225
CLASSIFIEDS
Mareeba Community Housing Company is recruiting for PART TIME HOUSING SUPPORT OFFICERS
We are seeking motivated team members with high level of communication skills, working in our homelessness programs to conduct assertive outreach.
The positions require after hours work 7 days
Well Women’s Clinics
Traffic control will be in place on the northern end of Byrnes St for two (2) nights on 19 August to 20 August
We would like to thank residents for their patience. For more information, please contact Council on 1300 308 461.
Notice of Praecipe
Applications Invited
Early Childhood Coordination
Targeted Communities
Organisations are invited to apply to establish and deliver early childhood coordination in:
• Aurukun
• Kowanyama
• Cherbourg
• Mapoon
• Napranum (via Weipa)
• Woorabinda
• Lockhart River
The initiative will provide practical assistance to support children and families experiencing vulnerability to successfully transition from home to early childhood settings, and on to school. The service will promote children’s development, family and child wellbeing, and a sense of belonging as the child takes part in their community.
$155,000 per annum, per location, is available until 30 June 2026 to provide early childhood coordination services to support successful transitions for children.
Final date for applications: 15 November 2024
Please refer to the Department of Education’s website for full details: https://earlychildhood. qld.gov.au/grants-and-funding
MCHC offer a supportive workplace culture, training and development opportunities, and attractive salary packaging arrangements. Selection criteria available at: reception@mchc.org.au
(These clinics are available to Medicare eligible clients)
Applications close on 6th September, 2024 with immediate start available for the successful applicant/s.
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.
Mareeba Hospital
Thursdays 3rd October, 2024 and 24th October, 2024
Atherton RSL Sub Branch will be holding a service at the Memorial Park, Main Street, Atherton commencing 11.00am, Sunday 18 August to commemorate Vietnam Veteran’s Day. Members, Guests and the Public are invited to attend and lay a wreath. Following the service, all are welcome to join the RSL Members and families at the Atherton Hotel.
ANIMAL OF THE WEEK
Phone 4092 9311 to make an appointment.
NAME: Charlie DOB: 19.01.24
Ravenshoe Primary Health Centre
BREED: Bull Arab x Mastiff
Monday 14th October, 2024
Phone 4097 6223 to make an appointment.
Atherton Community Health Centre
Tuesday 15th October, 2024
Phone 4091 0263 to make an appointment.
Malanda Primary Health Centre
Wednesday 16th October, 2024
Phone 4096 5339 to make an appointment.
Millaa Millaa Primary Health Centre
Tuesday 23rd October, 2024
Phone 4097 2223 to make an appointment.
Charlie is affectionate and charming. She’s great with children, cats and other dogs. She has undergone thorough Vet checks including; Vax, De-sexed & Micro-chipped. Her adoption fee is $330.
SPORT
Available If you would like to meet Charlie- please call 0487 430 443.
THE dust was flying on Saturday when the Mareeba Motorcross Club held its Round 4 Club Championship event. Race classes included 50cc Demo, 50cc Auto, 65CC, 85CC, Junior Lites, Veterans, Ladies, MX2 and MX1.
On Sunday, the Jamie Parsons Memorial Ride Park Day took place in honour of a fallen club member who passed 25 years ago. The ride was opened by Jamie’s mother, Fay, and then a lap of honour was completed by his sister Julia and mates, Ricky McNab and Adrian Dalip.
50CC – 1st William Fapani, 2nd Zade Stemp, 3rd Ty O’Halloran. 65CC 7-12 year old boys – 1st Levi Daniel, 2nd Kayd Alley, 3rd Connor O’Halloran. 65CC 7-12 year old Girls – 1st Holly Hind, 2nd Harper Mason, 3rd Luca Castini. Mini Lites 9-12 year old boys – 1st Levi Daniel (set new track record), 2nd Kayd Alley, 3rd Lewis Greenwood.
Mini Lites 9-12 year old girls – 1st Holly Hind, 2nd Harper Mason. Mini Lites 12-16 year old boys – 1st Marco Tognola, 2nd Luca Tognola, 3rd Nate Bucknell. Mini Lites 12-16 year old girls – 1st Jacinta Jue Sue, 2nd Chelsea Panebianco. Junior Lites –1st William Lloyd, 2nd Tyler Sacchi, 3rd Luca Tognola. Womens – 1st Kirsten Vievers, 2nd Ananlise Chester. Veterans 35+ - 1st Adam Bucknell, 2nd Michael Kuehn, 3rd Dean Gove
NOT a lot of football events can boast three generations attending or playing in the one day, but in Dimbulah, it doesn’t raise an eyebrow.
Tradition and family are the backbone of the town and its football club, and anything less would be insulting.
So when Mareeba and Dimbulah battle it out at the Fantin Cup on 2 November in Dimbulah, brother, sons and grandsons will all be honoured.
For Ernes and Oliver Schincariol, the Fantin Cup brings back great memories of the township, the game and the magic.
Still residing in Dimbulah, the brothers played in the first Dimbulah Football Club’s Senior Men’s Team back in 1956.
They were a rookie team, but with experienced players who had had nowhere to compete. In fact, many Dimbulah players went on to play both nationally and internationally for other clubs.
Chatting to his son Adrian for this story, Ernes recalled Dimbulah’s first game was a friendly at Tinaroo, against a team made up of mostly German and Polish workers from the dam construction. Dimbulah was a crew of local boys and young migrants, mainly of Italian descent. (As the club grew, migrants of Spanish and Croatian origins also
joined the team.)
The promising fledgling team won the match one-nil, and they were ready to join the Far North competition, playing against Mareeba, South Johnston, Mourilyan, Innisfail, Tinaroo, and Cairns NAB (Northern Australian Brewery) teams.
The seniors were a competitive side, especially against their rival club, Mareeba. Not to mention twice winning the Crad Evans Cup – the longest-running cup in Queensland.
But it was a humble start.
Training in those days was on an open field, where the tennis courts are now. The area had no fence, and the ground was rough.
For away games, the team travelled in a tray-back truck covered with a tarp. The cost per trip was ten shillings ($1), which included fuel, insurance, and drinks.
Ernes remembers the club’s first president was a teacher at
Dimbulah at the time and was originally from England. He had helped found the club. Another founding member, an ex-returned Aussie soldier, donated the proceeds of one bale of tobacco to the new club.
The tobacco-growing town’s first strip was donated by sponsors FHV (Faichney, Henson and Veness) a local tobacco company which Ernes remembered was “taking on the big cigarette companies”. The strip, he recalled, was blue and white.
Another past player, Ivor Schofield, recalls having to kick-off at 1pm in Mareeba in State League days, so the visiting team could catch the last plane out of Cairns.
Both Dimbulah and Mareeba players did it tough, he said, especially when the tobacco season was on.
“They’d be working to death and then have to rush to the ground in time to play.”
But one of the greatest moments was when Dimbulah won a Grand Final.
“For a town of 1000 people it was a fantastic achievement,” Ivor said. “Bruno Fantin played the bugle till 8 in the morning after that win.”
Bruno was a beloved club president whose unparalleled dedication of 35 years is why the Cup is named after him.
He led the growth of the club, along with the community fan base. Volunteers pitched in to
build a new field, fence it in, and plant a lawn. Today, the much smaller community of Dimbulah no longer fields a men’s league, but still uses the grounds for the Junior Soccer competition.
Co-organiser of the Cup, Sandro Soncin, who played for both Dimbulah and Mareeba, said the town became a much smaller place as many local farms were bought out by big companies over the years.
But the Fantin Cup event revives the heydays and draws a
fantastic crowd. It also brings generations together. Ernes and Oliver Schincariol will be there, looking on proudly as first a nephew plays in the juniors, Oliver’s son Brian plays in the Under 45s, and Ernes boys, Adrain and Rudi, play in the Over-45s – the entertaining main event.
The Fantin Cup is on 2 November at Bruno’s Park, Dimbulah. Young Legends, Under 45s, start at 5pm; Little Legends, Under 8/9 starts at 6pm; Dinosaur Legends, Over 45s start at 8pm.
Savannah hosts bullriding series
Patrick Hart put in a good effort in the Open bullride
SATURDAY afternoon at Savannah in the Round was nothing short of eventful with the festival hosting the second-last round of the Great Northern Bullriding Series.
Many festival-goers watched on eagerly as the cowboys battled it out for an eight-second ride on the tough bucking bulls.
WINNERS: 8-U11 – Tyson Ford 11-14 – Levi Murray
Junior – Grant Martin
Novice – Patrick Hart
Open – No scores
Grant Martin won the Junior bullride
First Dimbulah Senior Soccer Team and some committee members in 1956.
Brothers Ernie and Oliver Schincariol played in the first first Dimbulah Football Club’s Senior Men’s Team back in 1956.
(Back row) Luigi Picco, Sergio Nobile, Remo Minisini, Renzo Malizan, Aldo Piovesan, Marge Cattarossi, Fred Cattarossi, Giulio Pase and Joe Preda (Bottom) Bortolo Muccignat, Silvano Zadro, Secondo Cunial, Arturo Sclippa, Ermes Schincariol, Memi Nasato, Oliver Schincariol, Gino Nasato and Enrico Schincariol (Bus Driver) Lou Jones.
Ermes Oliver
By KONNOR FURBER
Familiar faces to co-coach Slim loss in cricket opener SPORT
A FRESH start is on the horizon for the Gladiators as they recently signed two cocoaches for the A grade side, taking seriously their efforts to be in finals contention for the 2025 season, as well as looking to knuckle-down in their recruitment process to support the current playing group.
The signing of Tom Hughes and Trent Barnard as 2025 co-coaches marks a new beginning for the club, having finished 9th on the ladder in the 2024 season, and is also the first time the club has had cocoaches heading the A grade side.
“To my knowledge this will be the first time the club will have co-coaches.
“They’re great mates and have a similar philosophy on the stamp they want to put on the club.
“They’re driven to get the Gladiators back into the finals and that’s something we should be excited about,” club president Shaun Fincham said.
The recent signing also bids farewell to former coach Chris Sheppard, who in his three years at the club, “put a lot of time and effort into development”, according to Fincham.
Hughes is a Mareeba local and former A grader himself, as well as Barnard who was captain-coach of the side only a few years back.
“I’ve been a local at the club for a long time and played in the A grade side for 12 years.
“I’ve played a lot of footy, had a lot of different coaches and different experiences which I can use to lean on.
community proud.
“I think we grew up playing footy with a lot of culture and that comes from the top down, with us as coaches and even from the committee and the president.
“And also, it’s about getting a good bunch of boys together, trying their best to make the community proud. I know that worked really well when I first started here.
“That’s why we’re co-coaching, we don’t want to be the boss of everyone, we want to make sure we’re very transparent with the team.
“But also have a hard line with fitness and defence as well as just bringing that culture back to the club.
“We want everyone to stick together and build a team based on brotherhood because that’s how you win games and that’s how you win comps,” Hughes said.
Fincham is looking forward to the 2025 season, eagerly awaiting what these two will do for the playing group.
“We approached them, it was clear from the outset that they had been waiting for an opportunity to coach and were a good fit for what we were looking for.
ATHERTON senior men’s cricket side has just fallen short in their first foray into the 2024 Cricket Far North season, with the match coming down to the last over.
Played at Griffith Park, Atherton batted first, notching up 4/237 for the 40 overs, with Logan Poggioli (63 off 79 balls), Thomas Boorman (58 off 51) and Alexander Nassar (44 off 51) the top scorers.
Norths’ hero of the day was Aidan Firman who notched up a great century, scoring his 103 runs off 92 balls including four 6s and nine 4s.
Barnard is originally from Cairns but moved to the Mareeba area several years ago.
“I started out at Ivanhoe’s down in Cairns, ended up winning a gold medal with them and a grand final as well.
“Then I came up here, did all the
“I’ve been around the club for a long time, and I want to give back,” Hughes said.
(Northern) Pride stuff as well, I went away to Newcastle for a little bit and came back to captain-coach for a couple years.
“But now I’ve built a house and been up here for about four or five years now,” Barnard said.
The pair are committed to reengaging the team to a culture built on brotherhood and a dedication to making their
“They collectively bring experience and energy, they both know what makes our club tick, through their involvement over the years.
“Both Trent and Tom have hit the ground running, they’re very motivated,” Fincham said.
In other news, Fincham said that the club will soon announce a sign-on day, “which will likely start mid-November, and pre-season training will start after that event”.
Boorman put his back into the bowling for Atherton, taking four wickets to give his home side a chance. But Norths reached Atherton’s total with just two balls to go, withe final score 6/238.
Mareeba had a bye this week but will play Cairns Beaches in Round 2 at Borzi Park on 26 October, while Atherton will take on Rovers at Griffiths Park, Cairns.
Tom Hughes (left) and Trent Barnard have signed a two-year contract to become co-coaches of the A grade side.
2.0L
3.2
3.2
2021 Mitsubishi Exceed Tourer Outlander $42,990 AWD auto SUV, 51,000 klms, one owner, balance of factory qarranty.
