The Express Newspaper 23 April 2025 by Carlo Portella

Bosnic joins shire team

Distillery vies for big award

MLADEN Bosnic is the new Mareeba Shire Councillor following his successful bid in the April 5 by-election postal vote.

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.

Confirmed by the Queensland Electoral Commission last Wednesday following 10 days of vote counting, Mr Bosnic received 4090 votes (38.9%) winning the seat ahead of candidate Alan Pederson by 152 votes.

“It’s my birthday today, I’m 69, and I haven’t even had a drink yet,” he said, after hearing the news from the electoral commission.

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).

“I have a swearing-in this afternoon, but I know where I’ll be heading after that.”

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

Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen said of the 16,376 voters enrolled in Mareeba Shire, 10,679 ballots were completed and returned in time to be counted, resulting in a turnout of 65%.

“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.

Nominations were open from 10 March with five candidates stepping up to represent their community.

The by-election was held following the passing of Councillor Kevin Davies on 14 January 2025.

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

Cr Bosnic said it was an honour and a privilege to represent the people of Mareeba.

“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.”

“I thank the community for their support and for putting their faith in me,” he said.

“I also wish to thank my campaign team who worked hard and helped me run a positive campaign focused on a better future for the Mareeba Shire.

“I look forward to working with my fellow councillors for the benefit of the Mareeba Shire and conducting myself with honesty and accountability while being a voice for the community.”

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.

Real game-changer for Atherton’s elderly

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

“We use sugar cane nectar to pro-

“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.

Mayor Angela Toppin offered sincere congratulations to Cr Bosnic on being elected and said the team were looking forward to working together to serve the community.

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

It is Cr Bosnic’s second run at a council position, after he came seventh in the last local government elections in 2024.

Crackdown on feeding crocs

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

people from engaging in behaviours that pose a serious risk to public safety and animal conservation.

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.

WORK has begun on a $4.2 million housing project in Atherton which will support older women to age in their own homes.

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.

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.

The Curtain Fig Cottage Project, being overseen by Tablelands Community Housing Association (TCHA), is located on 47 Kelly Street, a space donated by Tablelands Regional Council.

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

“This commitment by Tablelands Regional Council unlocks our ability to increase the supply of social and affordable housing on the Tablelands,” TCHA chief executive officer Cate Teece said.

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.

“This is a real game changer for services that support older members in our community to live at home,” Cr Con Spanos said.

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.

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

“The Kelly Street location is central to town amenities while still being part of a larger green space.”

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

“The project will assist in supporting our senior citizens as well as contribute to the local economy and growth of our community.”

Minister for Housing and Public Works Sam O’Connor congratulated TCHA and TRC for working together to deliver this much-needed social housing in Atherton.

“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 project consists of five duplexes with 10 one-bedroom accessible units on a site that will provide for indoor and outdoor communal interactions.

The government has also signiﬁcantly increased

“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.”

“As part of the Crisafulli Government’s housing pipeline these 10 new social homes will provide safe and secure accommodation for senior women and eligible seniors in the community,” he said.

a stellar year for FNQ Rum, during which it has already secured multiple awards. At the World Rum Awards

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

New Councillor Mladen Bosnic signs in for duty at the swearing in ceremony last week.

Councillor Con Spanos and TCHA chief executive officer Cate Teece at the Curtain Fig Cottages construction site.

Roads dominate election discussion

THE poor condition of the region’s roads and the fragility and inadequateness of the transport network for trucks carting produce to southern markets dominated the conversation at the Mareeba Chamber of Commerce luncheon for Federal election candidates for Kennedy.

Only two – LNP’s Annette Swaine and the Greens’ Carole Stanford – of the seven candidates vying to topple the “King of Kennedy” Bob Katter turned up at the function to tell the audience why they should vote for change.

Mr Katter has held the seat since 1993, firstly as a member of the Nationals before going independent in 2001, and the veteran politician has no plans to step away any time soon.

In ABC’s Australian Story last week, Mr Katter said he would continue in the role until he was dead – a sentiment echoed by his staff and family in the program.

The luncheon event heard from each candidate about why they should be the next Federal representative, with Ms Swaine stating that the people of Kennedy were struggling, felt “let down” and “neglected”.

“No one is listening to the needs of the electorate in Canberra and we see funds injected into other regions while we miss out,” she said.

“We need to lift Kennedy into the future.”

She said her party would provide a one-off tax break of up to $1200 next year for people earning up to $144,000 and would slice the fuel excise in half for the next 12 months to help families cope with the cost of living.

Ms Stanford outlined some of her party’s policies including putting a freeze on rent increases, paying the HECS debt for those at university and an $800 annual subsidy for all parents to pay for additional costs involved with schooling their children.

She lamented that produce from our region had to go down south to markets before trucked back up again, saying “we should be asking questions about our supply chains and try to change those things for the better” and noting that governments should turn their attention to the rail system which could be a better alternative.

In his address, Mr Katter said he was concerned that inland Australia was “shrinking”, losing five Federal members of Parliament due to “industries simply closing down”.

He also spoke of the freedom he had gained when he left the major parties and became an independent and some of the achievements over the years including saving the live cattle export industry which had been “brought on” by former Prime Minister Julia Gillard.

“I had backed the Libs three times but the only way to get the market opened was to switch my allegiance on the condition that they (Labor) got rid of Julia Gillard,” he said.

“I knew the price I was going to pay politically – I was committing hari-kari – but within nine days (Kevin) Rudd was in Indonesia, and within 13 days, the market was reopened.”

Mr Katter also spoke of his joy that the final upgrade of the Hann Highway would be completed by the end of next year – something he had been fighting for 15 years – which would take some 18 hours off the round trip to southern markets.

But cattleman Alan Pedersen questioned the value of the Hann being completed when Ootann Road still needed to be upgraded.

“For triple road trains to get from here to the Hann, they have to go through Ootann Road, otherwise they

will have to continue to go down the Palmerston (Hwy) and the Bruce (Hwy),” he said.

“Unless Ootann Road is sealed, we can’t get product out of here onto the Hann Highway so it’s an absolute critical piece of road we have to do.”

Mr Katter responded that he now had his “riding instructions” and he would get “stuck into it and take it up with Canberra”.

“It’s pretty futile to get that (Hann) highway done and we can’t use it,” he said.

Residents on edge over second road

A PETITION by some Edge Estate residents to stop a planned second access road from going ahead has been rejected by the Mareeba Shire Council.

The petition, which drew 47 signatures, said the creation of a second road out of the estate would increase traffic “such as construction and tradies vehicles”; increase the risk of traffic accidents; increase the security risk of theft and burglary with double access, and diminish amenity to The Edge Estate.

In answer to the claims, a council report said the continued development of the Edge was in two stages, with the access road plan to be developed during the second stage. This had been on record since 2016.

Any increases in traffic would be inevitable due to the ongoing expansion of the Edge Estate, regardless of a secondary road. Similarly, security risks happened irrespective of the number of road accesses. It could also be concluded that improved road connectivity would allow police to more effectively patrol the neighbourhood.

As for amenity, traffic movements were expected to be limited to those of residents and their visitors.

At a council meeting on 16 April, councillors suggested that it was good town planning practice to have two accesses to development wherever possible as a matter of community safety in case of emergency, a natural disaster or a traffic accident.

A secondary road also “improved walkability” between neighbourhoods.

The report also concluded that council could not amend a development unless it was requested by the developer.

on?

very surprised.

show

why!

Candidates for the Federal seat of Kennedy (left) Annette Swaine from LNP, Carole Stanford from the Greens and incumbent Bob Katter at last week’s election luncheon in Mareeba.

(above left) The Gilberton Outback Retreat was awarded as the Champion of Tourism at the prestigious 2025 Australian Small Business Champion Awards.

The retreat (pictured) boasts awing panoramic views and is beautifully built from local stone and timber.

Outback retreat a real treat

AN outback station retreat near Einasleigh was recently announced as a champion in tourism after taking out the top spot at the prestigious 2025 Australian Small Business Champion Awards.

Gilberton Outback Retreat, located about 130km south of Einasleigh, was awarded as the Champion of Tourism at the recent event that recognises and rewards the achievements of small business operators across the country.

“Considering it was between small businesses nationwide, we were really surprised and honoured,” owner Lyn French said.

“It was a bit surreal and there were lots of people. There was a hell of a lot of people who hadn’t heard of us, but they have now.

“And it’s already created more bookings which is really good to see.”

Over 5,500 entries were received from a wide range of business sectors located in cities,

rural, regional and suburban towns throughout Australia.

The judging process was rigorous and highly competitive with 1,423 finalists selected across 106 categories, each of whom demonstrated why small businesses are so vital to our nation’s prosperity.

The winners were announced at a National Gala Presentation Evening held at The Star Sydney, where Gilberton Outback Retreat was formally recognised as the Champion in the Tourism category.

The event was hosted by popular channel Nine presenter and journalist Jayne Azzopardi and was attended by more than 1000 small businesspeople.

As part of their achievement, the Gilberton Outback Retreat received a custom Champions statuette trophy and certificate, along with national recognition as an industry leader.

Centre to celebrate milestone

By KONNOR FURBER

AN exciting year awaits the Mareeba Heritage Centre, with a myriad of events planned to mark its 30th anniversary.

The Mareeba Heritage Museum and Visitor Information Centre opened its doors on 14 October 1995 and this year it will celebrate its 30th anniversary through a range of events including: a high tea, trivia night, comedy nights, cocktail party and a grand finale circus show.

The centre welcomes on average 60,000 visitors per year and currently has a team of 37 dedicated volunteers.

Centre manager Sandrine Gloton said she was excited for the year ahead and to broaden the horizons of the centre.

“We’re really excited. There’s not a great deal to do in Mareeba at night, so we want to give the community something different to do on a Friday or Saturday night,” she said.

“We also want to show people that we’re not just a museum with a bunch of objects inside. We’re more than that. We’re a venue and we can host great events.

“We want to be the community hub that promotes Mareeba for what it is.”

Ms Gloton also said she was proud of how the Heritage Centre positively impacts the town’s economy and tourism.

“The Heritage Centre has a few different hats and contributes to Mareeba’s economy, tourism, and community,” she said.

“We’re the visitor information centre, so we’re the first point of contact for people who come to town.

“We promote what to see and what to do. We try to keep people in the area for as long as we can and transform their short stop into a longer stay.

“We try to partner quite a bit with

all the businesses in town, so we’re the hub for economy in Mareeba to promote what’s here.

“Then there’s the museum side of things, we preserve Mareeba’s culture and heritage, we’re story tellers of what Mareeba is all about, and we want to keep doing that.

“Also, the heritage evolves, it’s not set in stone. Now is tomorrow’s heritage.

“So, we want to keep this centre as a vibrant, community hub for the town,” she said.

The first event the centre has planned is a Mother’s Day High Tea which will

take place on 11 May and feature Ida Portella’s Comedy Tours.

The cost is $65 per person and bookings are essential. For more information or to book, visit www. trybooking.com/DAEPD.

The next event will be a trivia night on 20 June followed by a countrycomedy night on 22 and 23 August.

There will then be two events in October. The first will be fundraising cocktail party followed by the grand finale.

“We’re doing a fundraising cocktail party, with Ida as our MC. The funds raised will go towards new exhibits,

Events

Mother’s Day High Tea at Jamieson House –11 May

Trivia Night – 20 June

Country Comedy Tours – 22-23 August

Anniversary Cocktail Party – 14 October

The Grand Finale “Night at the Museum with Dream State Entertainment” – 18 October

Survey on dog parks sought

DOG owners who use the off-leash park in Atherton are being asked to take part in a survey so Tablelands Regional Council can make decisions about the future of the facility.

The dog park is in the spotlight after Cr Kevin Cardew asked for a dividing fence to be installed to separate smaller dogs from larger breeds after he received a number of requests from the community.

But at its March meeting, councillors were told installing a fence was not going to be a simple task, and that due to the existing dog park being on heritage-listed land, which was “currently subject to confidential discussions”, council would be required to apply for a Heritage Exemption Certificate through the Department of Environment, Science and Innovation.

In 2024, officers pursued the matter with the department which provided an exemption certificate with the condition that TRC would need to organise training for officers performing works and have relevantly qualified representatives on site.

Chief executive officer Nikola Stepanov also disputed the fact that the fence was needed to separate different dogs according to size, saying she had been told it was more about “active dogs and inactive dogs”.

Last week, the council launched an online survey to determine what the users of the dog park wanted.

with two priorities: a World War 11 exhibit and a streetscape extension,” Ms Gloton said.

“And on 18 October, we’re having Dreamstate Entertainment doing their circus acts here at the museum for the grand finale.

“They are world-renowned and are very talented, so I’m very excited for that event.”

For more information call 4092 5674, or to monitor future updates, visit their Facebook page at www.facebook. com/visitMAREEBA.

“We’ve had multiple and sometimes conflicting requests for changes at the park so we’re reaching out to the community to find out more,” Mayor Rod Marti said.

“We want to know how dog owners use the park and if they’ve encountered any problems.

“We’re also keen to hear if the park should have a dividing fence and, if so, how the dogs should be divided e.g. size, weight, etc.

“And while we’ve got the attention of dog owners, we also want to hear ideas for other managed dog parks in the region.”

Anyone who wants to have their say on dog parks can complete the survey by going to www.trc.qld.gov.au/join-conversation by Sunday 18 May.

Mareeba Heritage Centre manager Sandrine Gloton helping some visitors with their inquiries.

NZAC DAY SERV R ICES

3.00pm

6.00am at Dimbulah

www.rslqld.org

ANZAC

Thousands to attend ceremonies

THIS Friday, thousands of people from across the region will be attending Anzac Day ceremonies, with events to be hosted by nearly every town.

In the Mareeba Shire, Anzac Day ceremonies will be held in Chillagoe, Dimbulah, Kuranda, Mt Molloy, Watsonville and Mareeba.

“Anzac Day is a special occasion to honour the legacy, mateship and bravery of the Australian and New Zealand soldiers who faced their first major battle in World War I at Gallipoli,” Mayor Angela Toppin said.

“It is also a day to acknowledge those who continue to serve our country, and I encourage all residents to take the opportunity to show their support by attending your local Anzac Day ceremony.”

In Mareeba, council workers have been busy repairing the base of the historical war memorial (pictured) which has stood in the centre of town for more than a century.

The dawn service starts at 4.28am and continues until 4.58am, followed at 10am by the main march and service.

Chillagoe will host a dawn service at the Chillagoe Town Hall from 4.20am, followed by breakfast. There will also be a march and service from 10 Acre Park in Frew Street to the Chillagoe Hall at 9.30am, followed by a service and morning tea.

At Dimbulah, the dawn service will be held at 6am at the Dimbulah Memorial Hall, while in Kuranda, the service will start at 5.30am at the town’s Railway Station. At 10.30am a march will be held from the IGA to Centenary Park where

another service will be held.

In Mount Molloy, the dawn service starts at 6.30am at the cenotaph, while at 10.15am, the march will start from Vains Park to the cenotaph, with a service to follow at 10.30am.

In Watsonville, the service will start at 3pm at Watsonville Shelter Shed.

Atherton will host three events on the day, starting at 4.20am at the cenotaph, followed by a gunfire breakfast at the Barron Valley Hotel. This will be followed at 8.45am with a war graves observance at the War Cemetery. At 10.25am, the march starts at the Atherton Men’s Shed and ends at the cenotaph with a service to follow at 11am.

At Evelyn, a war memorial service will be held on Jonsson Road at 6.20am, while in Herberton, the day starts with a dawn service at the cenotaph at

4.45am. At 9am, locals are invited to attend the Padre White graveside service at Herberton Cemetery. This will be followed at 9.45am with the march to start at the Royal Hotel and end at the cenotaph, with a service to start at 10.05am.

Malanda will host a dawn service at 4am, with the march to start at the Malanda Hotel and end at the Eacham Memorial Gates, followed by a gunfire breakfast at the Top Rail Restaurant. At 8.45am, another march will start from William Street to the Memorial Gates, with the service to begin at 9.30am.

In Millaa Millaa, a march commences at 4.15am from the QCWA Hall to the RSL Hall, followed by a service. Later in the day at 10.15am, the march from the primary school to the RSL Hall takes place, followed by a service at 10.45am.

Mt Garnet hosts two ceremonies on Friday, with the first to start at 5.30am at the cenotaph, followed by a gunfire breakfast at the Town Hall, then the main march begins at 9.30am from the hotel to the hall, followed by a service at 10.10am. This is followed by morning tea at the hall, with locals encouraged to bring a plate to share. In Ravenshoe, the march starts at the Highland Bakery at 9.30am and continues to the cenotaph, with the serviced to begin at 10am. In Yungaburra, there are two events – the first at the Afghanistan Avenue of Honour from 5.30am, followed by a gunfire breakfast at 6.30am at the Yungaburra Hotel. At 7.45am, the march starts near Eacham Road opposite Foodworks and ends at the cenotaph.

Diggers honoured with official graves

TWO World War 1 diggers who died more than 70 years ago finally have official resting places, with a special ceremony at the Mareeba Pioneer cemetery held this month to unveil the graves, attended by relatives and veterans.

Corporal William (Wally) Evans and Private John Hodgson were both awarded the 1914-15 Star, British War Medal and the Victory Medal for their military service, but when they passed away in Mareeba, their graves were left unmarked.

A few months ago, local historian and leader of the refurbishment of the pioneer cemetery, Michael Musumeci, was approached by two descendants of the diggers in an attempt to rectify their unmarked graves to official war graves.

Mr Musumeci took on the challenge, researching the diggers’ stories, then applying to the Office of the War Graves, and seeking approvals from Mareeba Shire Council, before arranging for the graves and plaques to be officially constructed.

On 12 April, a crowd of around 50 gathered at the cemetery, including descendants of the Evans families, members of the Patriots, Vietnam and Veterans Motorcycle Club, the community and a lone piper to honour and remember the two World War 1 veterans.

During the official service, both diggers’ lives were told.

Corporal Evans, was born on 15 Feb 1890 in Northumberland,

England, coming to Australia in 1911 where he worked as a sheep shearer in Aramac, Central Queensland when the Great War broke out.

At 24, he enlisted in the Australian Imperial Forces in late 1914 and was attached to the 5th Light Horse. He left Australia in February 1915 heading for Gallipoli, via Egypt. He sustained

a gunshot wound to his thigh whilst in action at Anzac Cove on 28 July 1915 and was evacuated to Mudros to recover.

The following month he returned back to the Gallipoli Peninsula but was hospitalised months later with a serious bout of pyrexia, causing him to be evacuated to England. Here, he remained in hospital

suffering from enteric fever and paratyphoid, totalling 73 days under treatment.

Recovering from sickness, he transferred from AIF Headquarters in Salisbury, London, and was taken on strength with the 3rd District Headquarters.

Late November 1916, he proceeded to France but in early January 1917, was back in hospital for appendicitis in Wimereux. Whilst in France, he transferred to the Anzac Provost Corps, and promoted to T/Corp until he was evacuated sick to hospital in July 1918.

He returned to Australia in late January 1919 and was discharged months later.

William Evans passed away on 23 June 1951 at the Mareeba District Hospital aged 61.

John Hodgson was born in 1869 in Durham, England. At the age of 43, John was working

as a labourer, before he enlisted at Blackall, Queensland in January 1915, and was a Private to D Company, 42 Battalion AIF in Feb 1916.

On 16 May 1916, he left Australia aboard HMS “Ceramic” at Port Laid, remaining there for a month. On 6 June 1916, he left on the “Franconia” at Alexandria and disembarked at Plymouth 10 days later.

On 5 September 1916, he left for France, and joined his 31st Battalion AIF 6th Reinforcements, until 12 December 1916 when he was sent to a Field Hospital, reported sick.

He rejoined the unit from hospital in March 1917, but was still suffering ongoing bouts of severe bronchitis and rheumatic fever that he never got over during his service. He was admitted to numerous hospitals until he was evacuated

to England in August 1917. Due to his ongoing poor health, the Medical Board recommended he was unfit for general service, suffering a permanent disability, inflicted whilst in service. He returned to Australia in late 1917.

Very little is known of the life after his war service, but records indicate he resided in Mareeba, for a number of years, along Walsh Street, prior to his death on 8 June 1948.

“Sadly, there are no relatives for Private Hodgson in Australia, so it was inspiring to see the veterans, including members of the motorcycle club, carrying on the role of looking after one of their mates, after so many years had passed,” Mr Musumeci said.

The Ode was officially recited, and the crowd was reminded of the events of Gallipoli during the service which was ended with the Last Post, a blessing and one minute silence observed. Family members and veterans then unveiled the graves of both diggers and laid wreaths.

“This was another successful project for the Mareeba Pioneer Cemetery that brought a sense of closure to many relatives, and also a welcomed addition to the cemetery,” Mr Musumeci said.

“Our iconic pioneer cemetery is now a place of respect, dignity and remembrance, and really something Mareeba and the many who visit should be very proud of.”

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Relatives of Corporal William (Wally) Evans at his official grave unveiled at the Mareeba Pioneer Cemetery earlier this month.

Members of the Patriots, Vietnam and Veterans Motorcycle Club honoured Private John Hodgson at the grave unveiling ceremony.

Tiny school, big heart

THE tiny school at Irvinebank has held a special event to fundraise for a new mural at the school.

The Irvinebank State School P&F’s recent High Tea Fundraiser brought together students, staff and locals for a morning of food, conversation and community spirit.

Principal Shannon Hurst formally welcomed guests and explained that proceeds from the event would support the installation of a new mural at the school.

attended by school families, members of the Irvinebank Progress Association, the P&F, community supporters, and Mareeba Shire Councillor Amy Braes.

Student mother Desley Jones spoke of the advantages offered by small schools.

“These children experience learning in a holistic way. They build meaningful relationships across age groups and learn to encourage one another when the going gets tough,” she said.

“Today, we gather to raise funds for the P&F to install a new mural at our growing school,” Ms Hurst said.

“Small schools in remote areas play an integral role in their communities, and vice versa. This mural will reflect the unique characteristics and rich history of Irvinebank in a modern and engaging way.”

Set against the backdrop of the school’s bush tucker garden and yarning circle, the High Tea proved a successful fundraiser and a celebration of the enduring relationship between school and community.

To further boost fundraising efforts, Irvinebank State School also hosted a Community Market Day on 30 March which was met with strong local support.

Can’t make it on Election Day?

With enrolments increasing from just three students in 2024 to 10 in 2025, the mural will symbolise growth and connection within the school and wider community.

The event was well

“As a small school principal, I am always impressed by the level of commitment and encouragement we receive from our community. The market day was a great success,” Ms Hurst said.

Call for Cape York to go batty for flying-foxes

A SEARCH is on for endangered Spectacled Flying-foxes on Cape York. Cape York Natural Resource Management is calling on the Cape community and members of the public to report any sightings as part of a project to raise awareness about the endangered species, and where it lives and feeds across the region. Cape York NRM project officer Maree Coulson leads the project.

“We need to know more about their presence on Cape York and we need the community’s help with this,” she said.

“This project aligns with the federal recovery plan for the species (Pteropus conspicillatus).

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“We need to build on existing knowledge of their range and presence, raise awareness in the community and also implement actions to support the overall protection of Spectacled Flyingfoxes.

“There is limited information known about their presence on Cape York, so the information we’re looking for from the community is the time, place and number of bats seen –photographs are also great.

“Spectacled Flying-foxes are considered a rainforest specialist among the Australian flying-foxes; they play an important role in seed dispersal and rainforest regeneration.

“They also forage in eucalypt, melaleuca and mangrove forests.

“Whether you’re a land manager, Traditional Owner, scientist, bird watcher or tourist, we’re asking anyone who sees a specky on the Cape to let us know.”

Ms Coulson and her team met with Tolga Bat Rescue and Research director Jenny Mclean last month as part of their engagement with local experts to support the project.

The group’s hospital in Atherton has cared for more than 300 bats this wet season.

“It was great to meet Jenny, who took us on a tour of the hospital,” Ms Coulson said.

“During the wet season, the bat hospital cares mostly for Spectacled Flying-foxes impacted by ticks.

“Many of those are orphaned pups, so the Tolga Bat Hospital provides individual care for them.

“A team of live-in volunteers is vital to their success and Jenny and her team are doing a fantastic job caring for them.”

Ms Mclean said they had been managing and monitoring tick paralysis and birth abnormalities in Spectacled Flying-fox camps for nearly 30 years.

“Most Australian wildlife have lived with tick paralysis for a very long time and have good immunity but it seems flying-foxes have only been affected for about 40 years,” she said.

“It’s an agonising death for them [and] tick season unfortunately is also birthing season.

“Tick paralysis is a rapidly progressive disease caused by a toxin in the tick’s saliva that attacks the nervous system – most cannot be treated successfully and need to be euthanised.”

Any sightings of Spectacled Flying-foxes on the Cape can be submitted to the Cape York NRM website at https://capeyorknrm. com.au/campaigns/spectacled-flying-fox-sightings

Irvinebank student Leilani was thrilled to be part of the fundraising event.

(left) Cr Amy Braes and Irvinebank State School principal Shannon Hurst at the High Tea event.

Tree planting a win-win

FIVE Indigenous young people are getting the opportunity to gain new qualifications and a year’s full-time work in landscape restoration at sites across the Atherton Tablelands where they will plant up to 6,000 native trees, improving water quality in the upper catchments of the Great Barrier Reef.

Part of the Queensland Government’s $33.5 million Reef Assist program, under the Queensland Reef Water Quality Program, the project is a partnership between the Wet Tropics Management Authority (WTMA) and the Choorechillum Prescribed Body Corporate (the NgadjonJii Peoples’ representatives) who are Traditional Custodians of the land on which the planting sites occur.

WTMA executive director Scott Buchanan said the project provided a great opportunity for the young people to collaborate with local community groups and other Reef Assist partners in the Wet Tropics to assist in the propagation, planting and maintenance of the native seedlings.

“The initiative also aims to enhance administrative and project management capacity within the Choorechillum PBC and is a significant step toward supporting the Ngadjon-Jii Peoples’ aspirations to work on and restore their traditional lands,” he said.

“The work will improve landscape resilience, important for the Wet Tropics

World Heritage Area, while enhancing the water quality flowing to the Great Barrier Reef lagoon.

“The project will fund the employment of five NgadjonJii rangers for 12 months, providing them with handson experience and training in conservation and land management, horticulture and rural industry skills in the growing restoration sector.”

Preparation work has now commenced for revegetation and maintenance work at specific sites in the Malanda Falls Conservation Park and along the Johnstone River that will help control erosion, stabilise stream banks and reduce invasive weeds.

Choorechillum PBC’s field supervisor Jared Barlow-Gray said working on Country was an important part of caring for

Open forum on PDR upgrade

AN open forum will be held in Weipa next month for the Department of Transport and Main Roads to give an update on Stage 2 of the Peninsula Developmental Road upgrade, and to discuss and understand future priorities for Stage 3.

The public forum will be held on 6 May from 3pm to 5pm at the Weipa Town Authority on Hibberd Drive.

Those attending can ask direct questions to the DTMR about the PDR upgrade which is jointly funded by the Australian Government and the Queensland Government.

RDA Tropical North has been working with various stakeholders since 2014 to realise both Stage 1 and Stage 2 funding for the priority regional project.

So far, State Government has committed $60 million to Stage 3 and the RDA is keen to understand priorities of the Cape communities via regional councils, business leaders and community in preparation for future budget cycles.

Contact Lainie Poon by emailing to engage@ rdatropicalnorth.org.au or call 4041 1729 with any queries.

their land and water.

“This project allows us to reconnect with our traditional lands, restore vital ecosystems, and help ensure cleaner waters flow into the Great Barrier Reef,” he said.

“We have a passionate team and hope that delivering successful outcomes will lead to more opportunities and partnerships with other local organisations.”

Noongyanbudda Ngadjon Rangers working on Choorechillum PBC’s Reef Assist team (from left) Michelle Malki, Finn Buckley, Jared Barlow-Gray and Mark New.

First Nations artisans sought

CAIRNS Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF) has issued a call to First Nations artists and craftspeople to showcase their culture and wares to thousands of visitors at this year’s Tanks Arts Centre-based Artisans Showcase between 10-13 July.

The Artisans Showcase is one of CIAF’s much-loved program highlights, and will provide a welcoming and inspiring marketplace featuring a new and diverse range of authentic Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander arts and crafts at various price points, from gifts to artefacts and collectibles.

CIAF’s artistic director Teho Ropeyarn said that while the art market was traditionally one of the most popular and visited attractions of the annual event, it had been rebranded Artisans Showcase to better reflect the organisation’s commitment to

Time

THE Great Northern Bullriding Series will return with their fast-paced, action-packed show for their first event of the year this weekend.

The ANZAC Round will get things underway for the Series, with proceeds being donated to the Mareeba RSL sub-branch.

The family friendly event will be held this Saturday with gates opening at 5pm for a 7pm start.

There will be a wide variety of food and drink on offer for patrons, as well as giveaways

showcasing authentic, high-quality artwork and craftsmanship.

“Importantly, the Artisans Showcase will provide an inclusive, ethical platform to present and sell a diverse and culturally rich range of arts and crafts celebrating the heritage, traditional techniques, and creative expressions of Queensland’s First Nations communities,” he said.

Over the four days of CIAF, the work of approximately 300 visual artists and 100 performers will be experienced across a multifaceted program of mostly free and family-friendly events.

Queensland’s First Nations artisans are invited to apply between now and 30 April. To submit an expression of interest, visit https:// ciaf.com.au/ciaf-2025-artisans-showcaseeoi-now-open-0

and a merch tent on site.

There will also be a licensed bar open until late and live music from a country DJ, with free camping available for the night.

Tickets can be purchased online or at the gate. However, there is a family pack (two adults, two kids) that is only availawble online.

Tickets can be purchased via https://events.humanitix. com/gnbs25-mareeba/ tickets?hxchl=hex-pfl.

• Read more page 23

Horse riding a barrel of fun

DIMBULAH Horse & Pony

Club kicked off its first competitive event of the year on 12-13 April with riders ranging from seven years to 40-plus testing their skills.

“Dimbulah really turned on the weather with a lovely hot sunny weekend,” club president Kris Geddes said. “The event was well attended, we had about 50 turn out for it, and everyone had a great time.

“People camped out for the weekend and we had a big dinner on the Saturday night.”

The Dimbulah club has been running for more than 40 years and attracts riders from as far afield as Cairns to Chillagoe.

The next event will be held on 1 June.

Dimbulah Results 13 & Under Fastest Barrel Race: Hailey Cabral (pictured above) 14 & Over Fastest Barrel Race: Makayla Bolton (pictured right)

Saturday – highest points for the day: 7 & Under: Lacey Pedersen

8-10 years: Clancy Brennan 11-13 years: Jade Kuekens

14-17 years: Makayla Bolton

18-39 Years: Amber Jerome

40+: Cilla Teece

Encouragement/ horsemanship awards: Asha Preece, Erika Dunn, Alex Serafin

STATE Member for Hill

bushland, warning it will worsen the nation’s feral pig crisis and lead to environmental devastation on an unprecedented scale.

Federal Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek’s announcement to lock up land equivalent to the size of New Zealand is nothing short of an eco-disaster in the making, according to

Mr Knuth.

“This is a death sentence for North Queensland’s agricultural industry and native wildlife,” he said.

“Ask any property owner who border state and National Parks and they will tell you that governments are the worst land managers, letting National Parks turn into feral pig breeding grounds.

“Now, they want to make it worse, locking up more land while turning their backs on the catastrophic damage being caused.”

Mr Knuth said Australia was now overrun with more than 23 million feral pigs, destroying farmland, wiping out native species, and spreading noxious weeds and deadly diseases like Panama TR4 which threatens the $600 million banana industry.

“The Federal Government is throwing a pathetic $1.4 million in funding through the National Feral Pig Action Plan, while splashing out $250 million to lock up land for an unrealistic and idealistic ‘30x30’ climate

goal,” Mr Knuth said.

“They’re throwing our primary industries under the bus. Feral pigs have ZERO environmental value.

“It’s ironic that the Government is spending $250million on locking up more land for environmental purposes, which will lead to an even greater environmental disaster, but the federal government is too obsessed and blinded with greenwashed ideology to see and understand the destruction this will cause.”

Tropical disease detection program

A SURVEILLANCE program aimed at detecting potential outbreaks of Panama disease tropical race 4 (TR4) has recommenced.

The Australian Banana Growers’ Council (ABGC) has advised that the program, delivered by ABGC Grower Support (Biosecurity), has resumed in a bid to safeguard

Australia’s banana industry from the devastating effects of TR4.

The industry-led program is designed to detect potential outbreaks of TR4 early, enabling growers to take swift action and limit the spread of the disease that could threaten Australia’s banana crops. Early detection is essential

in minimising the impact on banana plantations and protecting the livelihoods of thousands of Australians who rely on the industry.

“TR4 is one of the most significant biosecurity threats to Australian banana production,” ABGC chair Leon Collins said.

“This surveillance program is crucial in managing this threat and protecting both the banana industry and the broader agricultural sector. We are grateful for the ongoing support of our growers, stakeholders, and government partners.”

The surveillance program is a collaborative effort across the entire banana industry led by the ABGC and supported by Biosecurity Queensland.

Michael Reid, Chief Plant Health Manager for Queensland said:

“For surveillance to work effectively, every grower needs to be participating. Our team will be working with ABGC to ensure everyone is taking reasonable and practical steps to manage their biosecurity risks.”

Growers, farm workers, suppliers, and other industry

stakeholders will work together to fulfil their General Biosecurity Obligation (GBO) by implementing strong biosecurity practices, participating in inspections, and reporting any suspected TR4 cases.

The ABGC will provide on-the-ground guidance and support to help growers meet

their GBO.

In addition to inspections, the program will involve sampling of plants and monitoring of potential risk areas. The ABGC remains committed to ensuring the smooth implementation of the program and is ready to assist growers with any challenges that arise. Growers have been

kept informed of surveillance plans through regular communication. For more information on the TR4 surveillance program or to learn how you can contribute to its success, visit the ABGC TR4 website or contact the ABGC directly at growersupport@ abgc.org.au.

Reliable freehold breeding and backgrounding country

from Mount Garnet, North QLD. Spanning approx. 7,642.8 acres* on a single freehold title, this open forest country is ideal for breeding or backgrounding, with an estimated carrying capacity of 450 breeders*.

Creek. A central laneway links all but one paddock.

Infrastructure includes steel and timber cattle yards (capacity: 300 head), 15 wellfenced paddocks, 2 bores, 12 dams, 16 troughs, and seasonal water from Rudd

Improvements feature a powered 24m x 12m shed, cold room, 4 bedroom, office main residence with solar, caretaker’s cottage, and extra accommodation.

Bitumen road access on a road train route enhances logistics.

Soils include Basalt, Red Loam, and Granite, supporting quality pastures like Signal Grass, Seca Stylo, and native species.

Elegance and style meets quality and value in Mareeba

THIS stylish 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom home offers an enviable lifestyle and a statement interior. Positioned in a superb location at Amaroo Park Estate at the end of a quiet cul de sac it offers the following features:

• Fully tiled & airconditioned versatile floorplan

• 2.7m high ceilings, crisp neutral colour schemes, loads of natural light & quality fixtures & fittings throughout

• Master bedroom featuring a walk-in robe, ensuite & patio access

• Stunning central kitchen with stone bench tops, butler’s pantry with inbuilt cabinetry, 600mm ceramic induction

cooktop, integrated rangehood plus dishwasher

• Open plan living area flowing seamlessly out to the patio/sitting area via corner sliding stacker doors

• Lounge with built-in cabinetry/tv cabinet

• Striking main bathroom with corner spa bath

• Sizeable tiled patio with built-in bbq

• Solar power system with Tesla battery + solar hot water

• Stunning tropical garden surrounds with pond & water features

Address: Price: Agent:

+ private sitting area at the back of the allotment overlooking the natural bushland

• 894m2 landscaped with colorbond privacy fencing & no rear neighbours With so many features to offer and positioned in such a sought after location – don’t delay. Inspection is highly recommended.

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

21 Yarrabee Close, MAREEBA Offers over $668,000 EXCLUSIVE to Joe Torrisi Joe Torrisi Real Estate 0417 700 468

Large block with a shed in a great location

THIS property is perfect for a weekend escape or a permanent residence offering low-maintenance living that lets you fully enjoy all that Yungaburra has to offer.

Constructed with durable masonry blocks, the home includes two bedrooms with built-in wardrobes.

There’s a separate lounge room that can easily be converted into a third bedroom or a study.

The open-plan living area features a central kitchen with timber benchtops,

Address: Price: Agent:

electric appliances, a breakfast bar, and a pantry.

Located on a spacious, elevated 3,382m2 allotment, this property also offers a single-bay carport and a 12m x 6m powered shed with a 3.4m x 6m leanto—ideal for storing your caravan or boat.

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

29 Park Avenue, YUNGABURRA Offers over $690,000 EXCLUSIVE to Raquel Cunzolo Sommerset Realty 0408 983 879

PROPERTY

Room to play in Atherton

THIS freshly painted family home offers more than just low maintenance living, you have the pleasure of enjoying a rural outlook with no back neighbors.

New land release

Children can play safely in the 800sqm fully fenced

Price:

The low-set masonry block home showcases open plan living with vinyl flooring throughout and tiled wet areas; housework will be a breeze. A neat well-appointed kitchen overlooking the outdoor area has plenty of storage cupboards and a dishwasher for those rushed mornings. For year-round comfort the living area and the master bedroom are air conditioned. There are three good sized bedrooms and two of the bedrooms have built-in wardrobes. A very spacious bathroom offers the convenience of a shower and for those lazy days there is a bathtub to enjoy a soak. Entertaining is made easy with the large undercover area which also doubles as car accommodation for up to four vehicles.

allotment with a large lawn locker for the extras. The backyard provides plenty of potential for the home gardener.

This property is in a prominent position close to the Atherton High School.

For more information, call Trisha Jackson at Professionals. Phone 4091 3955 or 0419 1833 145.

Prestige Gardens A lifestyle worth coming home to

Step into a community where spacious living, natural beauty, and modern convenience come together. Prestige Gardens invites you to create the home you’ve always dreamed of—on land that gives you room to grow, relax, and enjoy.

Estate Features:

• Generous allotments from 1,616m² to 1,856m² with sweeping rural views

• Fully serviced with town water and infrastructure in place

• Walking distance to the local school—a perfect setting for families

• Established roads, footpaths, curbing, and street lighting throughout

• Carefully crafted covenants to protect your investment and lifestyle

• Titled and ready for immediate building

Find your place in a welcoming, well-planned estate designed for peaceful living and long-term value. Prestige Gardens is more than a location—it’s a lifestyle.

ATHERTON $500,000 Trisha Jackson Professionals Real Estate Atherton 0419 183 145 Call the teamat Sibi Girgenti Real Estate to secure your block today 40925566.

YUNGABURRA is one of the fastest-growing communities on the Tablelands, with visitors coming for a weekend and never wanting to leave. Famous for its ideal climate, relaxed village vibes, flowerlined streets, bustling markets, cute cafes, and convenient access to Lake Tinaroo, there really is something for everyone!

newest stage of Lakeview Heights offers generous-sized lots with minimal building restrictions, providing the ideal opportunity to build your dream home or weekender!

Lakeview Heights has always been a sought-after address due to its elevation, close proximity to the village, and Tinaburra Boat Ramp.

Elevated in Yungaburra, Lakeview Heights is where nature’s beauty meets the comforts of modern living. Nestled in the heart of this picturesque village, this

LETTERS to the editor

Responding with facts

I’M not sure if I’ll ever recover from the old one-two dealt me by Peter Campion and Bruce Jones in The Express (Letters 9/4/25). Ouch!

Bruce first. Bruce’s first “fact” has three parts, the first sub-“fact” (“Most would agree…”) is a statement of belief and therefore irrelevant. His second sub-“fact” (“the IPCC has never claimed to have proved that CO2 causes climate change, only that it is highly likely”) is directly contradicted by his third sub-“fact” (that the IPCC claims that “it is unequivocal that climate change is human induced”).

He goes on to bemoan that the IPCC’s assessments aren’t based on measurable facts but on variously rated probabilities. This is both misleading (because the probabilities are inevitably calculated/derived from measurements) and incorrect (because physics is largely probabilistic).

There are entire fields of physics (e.g. Statistical Mechanics, Quantum Mechanics) that are wholly probabilistic in their nature.

In spite of this uncertainty at the heart of much of physics, many of the things that we rely on in our daily lives are the product of these statistical predictions (most of modern electronics for example).

This leads me to Bruce’s second “fact”: “…However statistical analysis of these trends indicates (sic) CO2 increases follow, not precede climate change”. What? Suddenly Bruce is a big believer in statistics. A complete turnaround in less than a paragraph no less.

Bruce’s third “fact” (“The frequency of infrared radiation emitted by the earth that can be absorbed by CO2 is almost totally absorbed at current levels of CO2 and water vapour, increasing CO2 cannot therefore have further major impact on climate change”) effectively admits that CO2 can indeed trap heat, in direct contradiction of his first “fact” which says that it hasn’t been proven (and by extension/inference it doesn’t).

In response to Bruce’s challenge that I should put up or shut up, this paper: https://courses.seas.harvard.edu/climate/ eli/Courses/global-change-debates/Sources/ CO2-saturation/more/Zhong-Haigh-2013. pdf directly debunks his central argument that the effect of CO2 on surface temperature has saturated and therefore cannot cause any further warming.

I’d dearly love to have the space to tear Peter Campion’s “well-qualified” arguments apart in a similar way, but I’ve done it so many times before, and if I do it again, my letter will be edited for length (and possibly sarcasm).

I’d simply say to Peter that flapping your gums more loudly, more often, in more places, for longer doesn’t make you right “Dude”. You’d have a better chance of being taken seriously outside of your bubble if you got the maths right, let alone the physics. Even getting the units right might be a good start.

Getting beaten up by these guys is the intellectual equivalent to John Cleese being beaten up by Michael Palin in Monty Python’s Fish Slapping Dance Skit.

For anybody with residual doubts, perhaps go and ask your home insurer if they’ll give you a discount cos Peter and Bruce and company reckon it’s all a load of hooey.

David Blake DANBULLA

Bad science the culprit

ARISTOTLE taught that logic was the main instrument for reaching scientific conclusions and it is also an essential tool in debate. Mike Webb, (19/4/25) it seems, missed that course in logic.

My statement was not that climate science is a cult, but rather that scientists supporting the climate change/global boiling cult must be climate cult scientists. It was a logical statement.

If decisions are better when based on data rather than “those based on ideology or emotions” then it is illogical for climate cultists to hold up the likes of Greta, Al Gore, C Bowen, etc. as their climate Gods.

Mike goes on to say, if politicians make decisions based on scientific advice, then the responsibility lies with the politician. Then why would a government follow climate cult science which will affect, detrimentally, the country’s environment and economy?

Imperfect humans were not responsible for the severe restrictions and impositions placed on Aussies during the “virus”, it was flawed science.

Millions of Australians suffered terribly for two years or so. Some are still suffering. To trivialise this with the offhand “some of those decisions caused problems to some people” and “In my opinion Australia weathered the covid storm”, displays a cold-hearted indifference to his fellow citizens.

Furthermore, this demonstrates a failure to understand, or ignorance of, the logic that bad science can lead to bad decisions. Our Covid response proved this. Remember “follow the science”.

Opposing science, information, comments, debate, etc. on the Covid response was either restricted, suppressed or silenced. This seems to parallel the current situation in regard to the climate cult debate.

“O what a tangled web we weave, when first we practise to deceive!” (Sir Walter Scott)

Stan Thornton MAREEBA

Exposing the scams

AN ever-growing segment of society is looking back over the last five years of Covid scares and the last 43 years of climate scares and they’re seeing the common threads. The rich get richer, the globalists consolidate more power, and the common people get poorer and lose more rights and freedom.

The play is always the same; it’s always the Hegelian dialectic. Thesis, antithesis, synthesis. Problem, reaction, solution.

Problem: there’s a deadly but invisible threat that only “experts” and “scientists” (paid by globalist-controlled corporations or governments) can detect and which the rest of us can’t see, hear, taste, smell, or touch – such as an invisible “Covid” virus or an invisible “carbon” molecule.

Reaction: the globalist-controlled media and politicians then whip up a fear-storm skilfully designed to ensure the trusting masses demand something be done to keep them safe from this invisible threat that they themselves cannot detect. “Deniers” are silenced, censored, and deplatformed.

Solution: all commoners must give up some rights (medical autonomy with Covid, cheap energy with climate), lose some wealth (no jab, no pay with Covid, jobs going overseas with climate), pay more in taxes (inflation with

Covid, “renewables” subsidies and carbon taxes with climate) – while the globalists gain power, enrich their corporations, and consolidate their control over entire nations.

Journalist HL Mencken summed it up: “The whole aim of practical politics is to keep the populace alarmed (and hence clamorous to be led to safety) by menacing it with an endless series of hobgoblins, all of them imaginary.”

When Mike Webb (Letters, 09/03) writes so trustingly about “science” and the advice given to politicians, when both the “scientists” and the politicians are controlled by the globalists, you can see he hasn’t woken up to the scam yet despite it having been run on humanity repeatedly.

The ability to recognise patterns is one of the things that sets humans apart from animals, but many humans are like Mike and just can’t recognise the patterns. Either that or they think they’re in some protected class and if they support the scams they’ll be rewarded by the globalists. They won’t be, of course, tyrannical regimes always delete the “useful idiots” first when they gain power.

The climate scam has drained $US37 trillion from the common people of the world and the Covid scam claimed many trillions more, making them the greatest financial crimes against humanity in history.

Additionally, millions have died in poor countries from indoor air pollution because the globalists have denied them clean coalfired power under the climate scam, and millions more have died from the side-effects of the coerced injections, making climate and Covid the deadliest crimes against humanity in history.

So damned right the masterminds and middle-managers need to be tried and jailed, Mike Webb – the scale of their criminality is unprecedented.

Peter Campion TOLGA

Unveiling the trauma

SOME months ago, my younger 64-year-old sister was trying to protect her 99-year-old father protesting about the noise outside his home.

She was attacked and kicked and ground into the gutter repeatedly by a 16-year-old female. This female attacker is now back on the street.

She is terrorising my aged father and his two daughters that live with him. At 99, he should not be beside himself, anguished that he can’t protect his daughters.

My 64-year-old sister is a nervous wreck. My 62-year-old sister is the same as she witnessed it and tried to protect her sister.

This girl has caused a humongous trauma to a family and is heard across the street saying “I don’t give a “F” .”

What is happening to our town, Australia as well? It’s time we put the foot down. We would love our father to reach 100. But this stress makes it uncertain.

Susan Davidson MAREEBA

Human cost of crime

THE break and enter and the stealing of my car at my home came as a great shock and has impacted my life profoundly. Since this incident this month, my life has changed from that of feeling secure in my own home for the past 17 years to being insecure and fearful on a daily basis.

It has affected me deeply. It was not just that my home was broken into and ransacked, it happened in the night when I was home asleep. Finding that the intruder/s had search systematically through every room and also through my bedside drawers beside my head while I was sleeping, I am continually having disturbing thoughts about the potential reactive consequences of the offender/s should I have woken up at that time.

The property stolen disrupted and restricted my daily life severely in practical terms, especially the main means of electronica contact and communication devices. All contact details and data were lost with it.

Since I am an 81-year-old pensioner with limited income and savings, this financial burden has eroded my finances with restrictive consequences on the essential costs of living for quite some time to come.

My mental state has been affected greatly to the point where I no longer feel safe in my own home, sleep with unease, and I am uncomfortable with going out and leaving it unattended because of worrying.

When I am at home, I feel like a prisoner within, always locking doors and windows. I now constantly worry and stress that I will be caught off guard and robbed again.

I great disappointment for me is that the natural state of trust of my fellow human beings has been severely tainted whereby now I view any passer-by or unknown person coming to my door with great suspicion. It’s an emotional struggle. The healing of trauma is very slow.

NAME AND ADDRESS WITHHELD

Remove the Bollards

THANKS Stan Thornton for your letter “Remove the Bollards” (16/04/25).

My wife and I have resided in Ceola Drive on the western side for15 years.

I wholeheartedly agree with all of S.T.’s critical comments, especially in relation to the lack of prior consultation, traffic flow, restricted access, garbage collection and street sweeping.

I became aware of the online feedback survey thanks to the article in The Express some weeks ago. I took the trouble to peruse the feedback site which, unsurprisingly was patently designed to ensure neutral replies at worst, to very favourable at best.

Example: Question 4. “Has the installation in this site improved the overall experience of walking and riding in Mareeba?”

One of five multiple choice answers available were: “Greatly Improved, Much Improved, Improved, No Change, I don’t know.”

The only space for any critical/adverse feedback was in a box limited to 100 words. (That was for the whole survey, not each question.) What a joke!

So, readers, any claims that MSC makes in the future about the “overwhelming positive feedback” they received in the bollards survey will have been unfairly fabricated by the survey itself.

If we must have a survey, let’s have a door -to-door survey of the ratepayers/residents on the western side of Anzc Avenue/Ceola Drive, but more importantly, just REMOVE THE BOLLARDS!”

Allan Davis

ANZAC Day Church Service

Friday 25 April, 2025

Commencing at 8.30am in the Mareeba Community Centre, 39 Byrnes Street, Mareeba

Current and ex-service men and women are welcome to wear their uniforms and medals. Theme: Those who die that others may live. John 11 : 45-52. ALL WELCOME!

We anticipate finishing in time for ex- and

service personnel to get to the assembly area by 9.50am to form up ready for the Street Parade down Byrnes Street.

Happy 60th Birthday Michael Curcio

For the 24th of April, 2025

Lots of love and best wishes from Uncle Tony & Aunty Rosina and Family.

Happy 60th Wedding Anniversary

Mum & Dad

For the 24th of April, 2025

Lots of love from all your family.

JANE WHEELER

In loving memory of Jane, tragically taken on the Kennedy Highway, Mareeba on 27th January, 2023. Always in our thoughts. Rose and John Wheeler.

from you:

• Be experienced in business financial systems

• Be able to work un-supervised

• Honest, Discreet and Trustworthy

• Experience with Xero accounting software and Job Management software is not essential, but would be an advantage

• Take pride in your work and go the extra mile to make sure each task is top-notch

• Great people skills both with fellow workmates and customers

Check out the cool stuff we do at: www.smartelec.info

If you think you’ve got what it takes, then apply now via email with a copy of your resume and brief covering letter telling us why you are the right person for the job.

CLASSIFIEDS

PROPOSED PERMANENT ROAD CLOSURE

Attention is directed to an application for Permanent Road Closure of areas totalling about 1.132 ha being part of Powley Road adjoining Lot 103 on SP183722 (Locality of Barrine) and shown as Road Proposed to be Permanently Closed (A) and (B) on Drawing LAGIS-1493.

Comments or objections to the application either in full, or in part, must be submitted no later than 22 May 2025, in writing to the Department of Natural Resources and Mines, Manufacturing and Regional and Rural Development (DNRMMRRD), PO Box 318, Toowoomba Qld 4350 or online at the Queensland Government’s website at ‘Current Road Closure Applications’: https://www.qld.gov. au/environment/land/state/roads.

Members of the public interested in the proposed road closure can apply under the Right to Information Act 2009 (RTI Act) to access any comments/ objections received.

If you lodge comments or an objection, please include in your comments/objection advice whether you would like to be consulted if this issue becomes the subject of an access application under the RTI Act.

For further details and to view a copy of the drawing, contact the DNRMMRRD Toowoomba Office, on (07) 4529 1340 quoting reference number 2023/002990 UCP making particular reference to part A and/or B or view the application online on the Queensland Government’s website at ‘Current Road Closure Applications’: https://www.qld.gov. au/environment/land/state/roads.

SPORT

Proposed Development

Make a submission from: 24th April, 2025 to 16th May, 2025

Material Change of Use Office

Where: 57 Masterson Street, Mutchilba Qld. 4872

On: 2M9162

Approval Sought: Development Permit

Application Ref: MCU/25/0006

You may obtain a copy of the application and make a submission to:

Mareeba Shire Council

65 Rankin Street, Mareeba, Qld. 4880

info@msc.qld.gov.au

1300 308 461

www.msc.qld.gov.au

Public notification requirements are in accordance with the Planning Act 2016.

Proposed Development

Make a submission from: 23rd April, 2025 to 15th May, 2025

Reconfiguring a Lot

Subdivision (1 into 2 Lots)

Where: 186 McGrath Road, Mareeba On: Lot 81 on SP179215

Approval Sought: Development Permit –Reconfiguring a Lot

Application Ref: RAL/25/0006

You may obtain a copy of the application and make a submission to:

Mareeba Shire Council

PO Box 154, Mareeba, QLD. 4880

Mareeba Shire Council PO Box 154, Mareeba, QLD. 4880

info@msc.qld.gov.au

1300 308 461

info@msc.qld.gov.au 1300 308 461

www.msc.qld.gov.au

Public notification requirements are in accordance with the Planning Act 2016.

ANZAC DAY 2025

FRIDAY 25 APRIL

The Atherton Sub Branch commemorating those who served for our country. DAWN SERVICE 4.30AM At Cenotaph Memorial Park, Main Street, Atherton CEMETERY WAR GRAVES SERVICE 9.00AM MAIN SERVICE 11.15AM at the Cenotaph Main Service - Form Up for March 10.30am, Railway Lane

12.00 Noon: Atherton Hotel, Main Street for refreshments, catch up and 2up.

Enquires: John Mudge 0429 001 747 Tex O’Brien 0418 898 962

Eels claim cross country trophy

Atherton

SPORT

Bullride series returns with ANZAC round

THE eagerly anticipated Great Northern Bullriding Series will host its first event of the year this weekend to honour ANZAC Day and will showcase some of the toughest cowboys and rankest bucking bulls the region has to offer.

“It’s good that it’s back, I’m excited to get back into it,” Series director Peter Brown said.

“The first one is always the best because you have fresh bulls and healthy cowboys.”

The event will be held this Saturday with gates opening at 5pm for a 7pm start and will include the two big names in the bucking bull world: Slide Out and Warrior.

Slide Out is a two-time Great Northern Bullriding Series Bucking Bull of the Year and was named the 2024 ABCRA Bucking Bull of the Year. He has also never had a qualified ride in the Great Northern Series.

Warrior, the “big black bull”, is a former Bucking Bull of the Year and is renowned for his maneuvering and turning back at the gate.

The event will also feature

some of the top, toughest cowboys from the region. This includes the likes of Braydon Wellby, Patrick Hart, Leith Malone and Cody Williams.

Wellby will be looking to repeat his success at last years event when he claimed first place. He missed the final rounds due to a broken leg.

“Braydon’s back after his injury, which is good. Patty Hart, who won the title last year, is also back,” Mr Brown said.

“You’ve got Leith Malone as well, he’s always up there in the standings. Cody Williams too, he’s a good, young cowboy from down south.

“We have $6,000 up for grabs for the open bull ride, so you’re bound to get some decent cowboys chasing that sort of money.”

The Great Northern Bullriding Series have been holding the ANZAC Round as their first event and donating proceeds to the Mareeba RSL sub-branch for the past three years.

“This is our third year doing this for the sub-

branch, which is really good, and having it one day after ANZAC day is a good way to just to show some respect, thank those that gave their life for us and give a bit of money back to the local community,” Mr Brown said.

“It’s a family show and it’s very quick. It’s two and a half hours of non-stop action. We’ll have our country DJ playing at the end of the show too.

“There’s also free camping Saturday night, so grab your swag and your firepit and head out to the Mareeba Rodeo Grounds.”

Tickets can be purchased online or at the gate. However, there is a family pack (two adults, two kids) that is only available online.

Tickets can be purchased via https://events.humanitix. com/gnbs25-mareeba/ tickets?hxchl=hex-pfl.

Braydon Wellby (pictured) will be looking to show off his skills after taking out last year’s ANZAC Round and later missing the final rounds due to a broken leg.

by Peter Roy