EDITION 81, APRIL 2017
MSF SUGAR PARTNERS WITH AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT AND GROWERS TO IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF WATER ENTERING THE GREAT BARRIER REEF In an exciting opportunity for the sugarcane industry, the Hon Josh Frydenberg MP, Minister for the Environment and Energy, and Senator the Hon Matthew Canavan, Minister for Resources and Northern Australia, have announced funding of $4.5 million (GST exclusive) for the delivery of MSF Sugar’s Project Uplift Farming Systems Initiative. The initiative will be delivered over the next 5 years as part of the fifth investment phase of the Australian Government’s Reef Trust, which will be supplemented by an estimated $12.8 million coinvestment by MSF Sugar and growers engaged to participate in the initiative. The Reef Trust has a strong focus on partnerships and co-investment so that government can work together with industry and the community to maximise benefits for the Great Barrier Reef. In announcing support for the MSF Sugar-led initiative, Minister Frydenberg and Senator Canavan indicated that “This is a new and innovative approach put forward by the sugarcane industry and we are very enthusiastic about its potential application across coastal sugar farming in Reef catchments”. This view is supported by MSF Sugar CEO, Mike Barry, who said the partnership is significant as “The Project Uplift Farming Systems Initiative represents a new and unique approach to engaging with cane farmers to improve on-farm practices”. “It is unique as the project is an industry-led initiative being driven as a partnership between MSF Sugar, Sugar Research Australia (SRA) and the sugarcane industry, who together aim to improve on-farm nutrient management practices and therefore improve the quality of water entering the Reef lagoon”. Over the next 5 years, MSF Sugar will establish 36 farming groups who will be assisted in the
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Photo: MSF Sugar Agronomsit Andrew Dougall
transition from existing farming systems to new, more efficient farming systems that lead to Smartcane BMP accreditation at ‘above industry standard’. The new farming system is based on the recently developed SRA Farming System which uses legume crop rotation, green cane trash blanketing, minimum tillage and controlled traffic to minimise soil compaction and reduce farm water runoff. Under the project, the majority of grower groups invited to participate will be located in the Wet Tropics with a smaller number in the Burnett Mary region. The Reef Trust grant funding will be delivered in conjunction with loan financing to be provided by MSF Sugar and will ...continues on page 8
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Gordonvale Anzac Day Commemorations It will be a vastly different Anzac Day in Gordonvale this year with the Norman Park being the centre for Commemorations. The current condition of the Gordonvale RSL Hall has resulted in the park being the venue for everything Anzac day in 2017. The morning kicks off at 3.30am with a gunfire breakfast under the annex at the tennis courts. At 4am there will be a muster for the Dawn Service in Gordon Street outside the RSL hall with the service commencing at 4am. Proceeding this service there will be a cooked breakfast in the park. The community commemorative service and parade will once again be held this year with all groups assembling outside the Gordonvale State Primary School in George Street at 9am for a 9.30am march off. The route will take the veterans and community groups along George Street into Cannon Street and Norman Street before turning into Gordon Street and then into Norman Park for the commemorative Parade at 10am. There will be a number of addresses, wreath laying and dedications. The area in Norman Park adjacent to the tennis courts will be fenced off this year to become a temporary “RSL” where participants and spectators will be able to partake in refreshments and food that in previous years have been available in the RSL hall. The rotunda stage in the centre of the park will be the venue for two up and other activities on the day. The Gordonvale RSL will be asking for a gold coin donation this year to assist with the fundraising for the repairs to the Hall with a target of opening prior to Remembrance day in November. In the meantime get down to the centre of town on the 25th of April where we can pay our respects to those that have gone before us.
Cops Vs Colts Sunday the 19th of March saw the 4th annual Colts versus Cops AFL match at Pyramid Power home grounds in very wet and windy conditions. For the third year in a row the Colts gave the cops a lesson in how to play football by running out winners 33 points to 14. Although both teams scored 9 times each, the accuracy of the colts far outweighed that of the police. The police team won the inaugural match back in 2014 by quite a large margin, but that was to be the only victory. The game was organised by Sergeant Michael McGarry who saw it as an opportunity to break down the barriers between youth and members of the Queensland Police Service. The QPS team was made up of both women and men for all areas of the Service including detectives, generals duties and specialist groups. A big thankyou to the umpire for his great work and the organisers on the sideline who made the day happen. Both teams will look forward to next year.
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www.gordonvale.net.au
Lest We Forget
Since the launch of www.gordonvale.net.au it has proven to be a huge success with over 529 unique visitors in the first three weeks viewing over 1000 pages on the website. The website is proving popular with both locals and tourists alike with the idea being to push people into using local instead of going elsewhere to make their purchases. The website also includes local upcoming events and attractions close to home. The real test will come when the cooler weather kicks in and the tourists season arrives for southerners. Any business that advertises with the Mulgrave News is eligible for a free page on the website. Email admin@mulgravenews.com.au for more details.
Community Calendar
Council Conversations As it is twelve months on since last year’s Local Government elections I thought it timely to reflect on some of what has been done in and around Division 1 and some highlights for me. There was commentary about lifting the ambience of the town centre of Gordonvale so within the first three months I had all of the town’s footpaths in and around the shops steam cleaned. New footpath was laid outside the Great Northern Hotel fixing the rough and eroded pathway in that section in Norman Street. New footpath was laid from the intersection of Thum and Norman Street back down to join up with the existing footpath toward the Gordonvale Medical Centre allowing better pedestrian access into town along Norman Street. Upgrades to the pedestrian crossing at the intersection of Norman and Gordon Streets was done and a new Norman Park sign installed with directional activities signage of what is and isn’t permitted in the park. The Mill Street carpark adjacent to Norman Park was formed and bitumen laid and landscaping done with trees and gardens planted. This provides overflow car parking for Norman Park events such as Market days, Great Pyramid Race and Carols by Candlelight as well as day parking for RV’s bring tourists and travellers into our Town. Our suburban enhancement program saw sealing of shoulder works done to Swan, George and Healy Streets in Gordonvale and from my discretionary fund, works were done in Dempsey Street to address flooding and sheeting of water on the roadway during rain downpours. Three new playgrounds were installed, at Leighton Park and Dempsey Park in Pyramid Estate and Tuppy Park at Edmonton for local children and families to enjoy. Our Gordonvale library upgrade is nearly completed with a $637,000 refurbishment inside and new awnings, painting and landscaping outside. It was particularly rewarding to hand over the keys to the Gordonvale Men’s Shed Association who came through my door in April last year looking for a venue and within the year we found them a residence to build the shed at Highleigh Road, secured a material change of use of the land and signed off on a lease to give them tenure and certainty for them to operate. Division 1 now has Men’s Sheds in Babinda, Gordonvale and Edmonton strengthening social cohesion in our communities. Stage 2 of the Gordonvale Men’s Shed will see a Community Garden established. This month I anticipate we will have economic development plans completed for Gordonvale and Babinda which will give us at Council a focus for growing economic and social opportunities for our residents. There is plenty more to be done and I look forward to continuing to work with our residents to achieve positive outcomes to improve the liveability of where we choose to live, work and play. Until next time, stay safe and enjoy being part of our local community. “A major project that saw stage 1 completed was the Alley Park master plan. It included a new full size, irrigated rugby league field, a sealed two way entrance access road from Sheppards Street, new sealed car park for 100 vehicles, lighting, sealed pedestrian pathways, storm water drainage, and an upgraded new playground. This will be the major sporting precinct that will service the southern corridor into the future and I have ensured funds be allocated in the 2017/2018 budget to do improvements to the grandstand and clubhouse facilities." "The community of Aloomba has benefited from road widening of Fixter and Hesp Roads and the Community Hall and toilets at Robert Rossi park have been freshly painted. Improvements continue to be made as I work closely with the Aloomba & Fishery Falls Progress Association." Cr Brett Moller
Gordonvale Community Hub located @ 17-19 Cannon Street
APRIL 1 1-2 1-17 6 14 16 17 22 25 MAY 1 4 6 13 JUNE 1 3 15 23 JULY 10 30
Gordonvale Markets Nate Myles Cup - Alley Park Easter school holidays Red Cross Meeting Masonic Temple 1:30pm Good Friday Easter Sunday Easter Monday Animal Education Day Norman Park ANZAC Day Labour Day Red Cross Meeting Masonic Temple 1:30pm Gordonvale Markets Gordonvale Race Day Red Cross Meeting Masonic Temple Gordonvale Markets Mayor Charity Golf Day - Gordonvale School Holidays School Back Ride for Isabel
If you would like to see your small or large event eg. fetes, cent sales, trivia nights, markets etc. published in the Caltex Community Calender email details to: admin@mulgravenews.com.au or call 4056 5877
Caltex Gordonvale - 07 4056 1419 Open 4.30am til 10pm 7 days
Animal Education Day After a years absence the Anumal Education Day is back on the 22nd April, at Norman Park in Gordonvale. This is a free, informative and fun-filled family event at Norman Park in Gordonvale has animals galore, music by Lucky Phil, petting zoos and market stalls. Regional and international animal aid organisations, vets, feed shops and suppliers, reptiles, pest eradicators and government departments will be able to answer all your animal questions and have stacks of free giveaways. The popular Police Dogs will be part of our exciting program of events, and there will be a Kids and Pets Dress-up Parade at 12.30pm with great family prizes donated by Cairns’ most popular animal tourist destinations! Our patron is Curtis Pitt, MP (QLD MLA).
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Out and About in Gordonvale
Business Guide Hairdresser
There was fun to be had on Wednesday the 15th at the Parkour Session, Kenrick Park at Gordonvale. The event was organised by the Cairns Regional Council and attended to by Cr Brett Moller who was there to listen to his constituents. The kids enjoyed a sausage sizzle, drinks and prizes, all while contributing to the future of the park by undertaking a survey and sketching down their ideas.
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Mechanic SLINGSHOT AUTOMOTIVE 5 Kern St Gordonvale Tony - 40563333
Glazier SHOWERTECH – ALL GLASS REPAIRS Simon 0412 160 640 nqglass@bigpond.com
Cleaner KELLYS CLEANING & ORGANISING Kelly 40 565577 M 0414682962
Electrician BARCOU ELECTRICS 7 RIdolfi Close Gordonvale Peter – 0409774857 Peterb3@bigpond.com Annette, Riley and Logan
Matthew Rodges, Trent Barry, Damien Pearce
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Painter AFFINITY PAINTING SOLUTIONS Jaimie 0409486339 affinitypainting@bigpond.com
Mowing GARDINER’ S MOWING AND YARD MAINTENANCE Alan – 0484 001 018 www.gardinersmowing.weebly.com gardinersmowing@gmail.com
Auto Electrician Dougall’s Auto Electrics Cnr Norman & Sheppard Sts., Gordonvale Ph: 4056 2033 Mobile: 0412 085 351 Arlia & Abbey
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The following equipment & facilities are available for hire: Tables (seats 8) $ 7 Chairs $ 1 Large Barbeques $ 25 + gas Contact Norm Fitzpatrick 4056 3081
Air-conditioned club room with: • tables & seating for 60 • self-contained kitchen • data projector, laptop and screen Hire cost is $60/day or $10/day to non-profit organizations. Contact Glenn Pope 0417 707 447. Our large catering van is available for functions, fetes etc. Contact Barry Hardy 0408 562 120 We are currently seeking new members. Enquiries: Barry Hardy 0408 562 120 or Kelly Beadman 0414 682 962
Judo Grassroots Challenge 2017 Over 60 young judo players gathered in Gordonvale over the weekend for the 1st Grassroots Judo Challenge of 2017. 20 competitors from the Malanda Judo Club and over 40 young competitors from Cairns Southside Judo Club tussled it out last Sunday morning with 3 hours of non-stop action. The competition, hosted by the Gordonvale based Cairns Southside Judo Club, catered for Judo players of all ages and skills levels. Although a predominantly grassroots club development activity for juniors, there was spectacular Judo on offer. The big throws and very spirited competitive bouts were conducted in a healthy values based atmosphere that especially encouraged modesty, politeness and respect. Event Director and Cairns Judo Club’s Sensei Luke Ronlund indicated that this was the clubs biggest grassroots event yet. “Over the past 18 months, each event has gotten bigger than the last. At our first Grassroots Challenge in 2016, we thought 18 players from our Cairns Club was great. Today, at our 5th Challenge event, we had 62 players from just two judo clubs. That is just an amazing level of participation and commitment from both clubs. Even more so considering over one third of the participants were girls.” Ronlund, a psychologist as well as a 4th Dan black belt, was quick describe the events success within a wider framework of participation. Judo is like any art or sport. There are good and ‘not so good’ clubs and teachers with right ways and wrong ways to both teaching and learning. At Cairns Southside, we encourage competition but only within a strong values based environment. Competition is as much about learning to win with modesty and respect, as it is to be prepared to be personally challenged. So these grassroots introductory events are a great opportunity for young players as well as parents, to learn that it’s not just about winning. I know it’s a cliché but our events are about each person doing the very best they can irrespective of whether they win or lose. In fact, we deliberately group players into small divisions according to their age and skill level as well as their disposition so that each player is personally challenged while not being overwhelmed.” While the Challenge event was popular with many new judo practitioners, it was also an opportunity for more experienced competitors to demonstrate their ability. With 4 of the events participants being junior National Champions at the 2016 Australian Kodokan Judo National Championships, there were some spectacular throws during Sundays competition. Ronlund however was again quick to couch the events purpose as a learning opportunity, “The Judo here today was fantastic. The best of 3 bouts between Hein [Ronlund] as a nation gold medallist and his club mate and friend Jayden [Cox] was as good as you would expect at any National level event. However at no time does the level of competition or competitive spirit become, in any way unhealthy. They are still children and most of all, they are still friends. Enjoyment is the primary goal for participation. This is important to remember for parents as well as the young competitors”. Ronlund was also wished to acknowledge the participation of parents and volunteers “None of todays great judo would have been possible without the parents. All those involved in the event, including referees, score keepers and marshalls…. They are all volunteers with most being parents. No-one is paid a cent. Even our nominal entry cost was kept to a bare minimum just to cover the cost of the medals. None of this would have been possible without our parents and volunteers. So I’d especially like to say a very big ‘thank you’ to all our mums, dads, grandparents and carers for their support, and also for their willingness to also be challenged as event helpers, many volunteering for the first time.” Catering for both Novice and experience players, the Grassroots Challenge events are also good opportunities for the two Kodokan Judo clubs’ experienced players to guage their preparation for more serious events. Both Cairns Southside and Malanda Judo clubs are members of the Queensland Kodokan Judo Association, which in turn is the state judo body recognised by the Australian Kodokan Judo Association. The 2017 National Championships will be held in Adelaide in October with the North Queensland clubs hopeful of having state representatives. The 1st Grassroots Judo Challenge was one of four 4 Grassroots Judo Challenge events planned for 2017. For any further information on these events, the clubs, or judo in general, Luke Ronlund can be contacted on 0405239655 or by email southside_judo_club@hotmail.com
Spot Light On Local Business
Jazz up ur hair
Introducing Jasmine Toohey from Jazz up ur hair. Jasmine is a young, energetic hairdresser who knows how to create a great style, and look after her local community. Jasmine spent some of her younger years living in Edmonton and before moving to Gordonvale 12 years ago, at the same time, starting her hairdressing apprenticeship. She has worked in many salons, but due to her growing family decided to start up her own business in Gordonvale a few years ago. She is proving so popular that customers are coming from as far as the northern beaches! Jasmine keeps her skills up by travelling for updated training in colour, cuts and up styling. She is a very sort after hairstylist, so much so that she contracts for the famous Ministry of Make-up and Hair in Cairns. Jasmine is often recommended on social media sites as the best hairdresser in Cairns/Southside. Jazz up ur Hair has a passion for hair and offers all cut styles, colouring, extensions and chemical straightening, she can also help with formals and weddings. Jasmine loves her local community and would like to offer all new local clients 10% off her already low prices for the month of April. Why not get all Jazzed up for the races? Don’t miss out on this awesome offer. Call 0448 016 295 or find her on Facebook
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Northern Italy to Northern Australia From an interview with Aldo Amadio 2014 (Information supplied by Mulgrave Settlers Museum) Every year there were floods on the lower fields and the river started to wash away some of their farm. To stop the erosion, it was decided to put some steel posts in the ground and stretch netting wire across the wash out and then fill it with stones. They borrowed a mill mud truck from the mill and drove up to Little Mulgrave and filled the truck with stones by hand. A rail line was put close to the washout. Aldo recalls there were so many stones and two months of hard work, but it never washed away again. In those days, the baker from the Thomas Brothers Bakery delivered bread by horse and cart. Aldo’s mother Carolina could speak very little English and one day the baker came with two loaves of bread for her. She held up ten fingers indicating that she wanted ten loaves. The baker tried to tell her that he’d be back the next day as he didn’t have any more. Carolina wanted them that day so she sent George and Peter to Gordonvale on their bikes for another couple of loaves. They ate one on the way home. So they were still short. The next day the baker brought out the ten loaves and now Carolina indicated that she wanted 15. Frank was home that day and the baker asked him why he needed so many. “Are you feeding the horses?” “Yes”, replied Frank. “I’ve got four horses” meaning the four growing boys who worked hard all day. When the Italian gang was there it was nothing to go through 65 to 70 loaves on the weekend. Over time the Amadio family bought a larger farm of 1000 acres from Tony Ridolfi. This was at Aloomba just below the Pyramid. It was a big farm and the ground was good and together with the Highleigh farm 20, 000 ton of cane was cut each year. It was around this time that George was killed when his tractor clipped the side of a bridge. George left behind his wife Alda and five young children. On the Aloomba farm the Amadios tried to grow pineapples, but it was bad timing as the cannery in Cairns had closed down and all the fruit had to be loaded onto a train for the Brisbane markets. On the way the fruit had contracted some disease and the whole shipment had to be dumped, so in the end it wasn’t worth it. The Amadio family expanded further and bought Walter Cannon’s farm opposite the Highleigh farm. This farm had many gullies, so to get more level land for growing cane, they bought a scraper from the Koombaloomba Dam project when it closed down.
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The cane was first cut green, but because of rat urine and the threat of Weil’s disease the cane was burnt. The Government brought in Italian Gangers to cut the cane due a shortfall of workers in the industry. One day Aldo found a large carpet snake and decided to play a trick on the cutters. He entered the barracks with the snake’s head in his hand and the rest wrapped around his neck and along his arm. The Italians got such a fright they dived out of the hopper windows. The head man said to Aldo that he had better apologise to the men or he wouldn’t have any cutters the next day. Because the Amadio family was naturalised before they came out to Australia, they were not interned during the war, but they had to report to the Police Station when the cane season was finished and were then sent to Mareeba to pick tobacco. The American503rd Parachute Infantry Regiment was in Gordonvale and Aldo remembers the parachutes falling around Redbank and some of the airmen coming on to the farm and digging foxholes and practising. Because of the war all road signs were taken down and one day a whole battalion of Australian soldiers arrived at the Highleigh farm thinking they were on the road to Cairns. The farms are still today in the Amadio Family with offspring of the brothers still managing the properties. Mulgrave Settlers Museum is in urgent need of more volunteers. Can you spare 4 hours a fortnight? For further information please contact Julie on 40565739 or Travis on 40561761.
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Robyn’s Bowen Therapy & Emmett Technique If this is you there are many ways to reduce your stress. Play some relaxing music, put some lavender oil on your skin or in a diffuser, go for a walk in a peaceful place, join a yoga or relaxation class. Also a Bowen & Emmett treatment can relax all those stressed muscles and put you into a deep state of relaxation. A Treatment can also ease pain, improve movement, flexibility and many other issues from sinus, lymphatic congestion to jaw pain and headaches. Feel good and get your appointment booked today, or if you know someone who needs assistance let them know that there is a gentle treatment that may help. You can message me, text or phone. Home visits are available on request. Please like us on Facebook. Robyn John 40563656 / 0431303453
THANKS AGAIN TO THE GORDONVALE RED CROSS AND GRAFTON HOTEL Peter Muskens, manager of the Grafton Hotel Edmonton has donated more funds raised through raffles, to the Gordonvale Red Cross. Mr Muskens requested a portion of the funds go to local charities. In conjunction, we have recently made a donation of an outdoor table and chairs with cushions to the not for profit organisation, St John’s Young Lifestyle Care – Gordonvale: “Our young lifestyle care facility is a prime example of keeping young people with a disability out of the residential aged care system through a wellness and restorative approach in a dynamic supported home-like environment. It truly is a gift to witness these clients enjoy their own facilities, the glow in their face as they enjoy hydrotherapy in their pool, whilst watching clients meander through the beautiful sensory gardens and savour independence through modified facilities provided in their own homes. But it doesn’t end there! Community access is important to St John’s as we pride ourselves on getting clients to medical, social and cultural events in order to stay a part of the community”. We are sure both residents and staff will enjoy being able to sit in comfort and enjoy the sound of the outdoors while also being protected from the elements. Many thanks also to the Gordonvale Men’s Shed & Gordonvale Lions Club for assembling the six seat setting, especially given the humid Photo: L-R: Cheryl Campbell (Red Cross), Michele Townson (Coordinator, conditions...great job! We are again, St Johns Young Lifestyle Village), Barry Hardy (Gordonvale Lions), Jeff grateful to Peter Muskens of the Grafton Hall (Gordonvale Men’s Shed), Lena Benedetti, Shirley French & Elsa Hotel for the opportunity to provide Deon (Gordonvale Red Cross) and Amy Franchi (Assistant Coordinator, St Johns Young Lifestyle Village) community support in Gordonvale.
Why do some people think Masonry is a Secret Society? This mistaken notion has been widely believed over the years. The facts are that the membership, meeting places and activities of the Masonic fraternity are well known to anyone who is interested. You can find books on Masonry in your local Library. Even the constitutions, rules and regulations have been published. Freemasonry (or Masonry) is the oldest and largest fraternity in the world. It brings together men from all walks of life, for fellowship, the promotion of integrity, and good citizenship. It is not a political or religious organization, but it does require a belief in a Supreme Being. Masons are very much involved in community service and charitable works, providing over a million dollars a day to help Masons and non Masons alike. If you would like to know more, talk to a Mason, your questions will be welcome.
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TALKING LAW
For many of us the biggest decision we may make in life is the great Australian dream of buying our own home to live in and raise a family. There is much you should do in preparation for such. You need to first of all find the home property that suits your needs and that you fall in love with. Hopefully the head should rule the heart to a high degree and you inspect the property, get a feel for the property, and ask questions of the Seller and the Real Estate agent about any issues concerning the property. It is worthwhile checking out the other houses in the street, look at what facilities and services are in close proximity so you are comfortable that the property and the location will hold its value and appreciate in value into the future.
The Agent is the Agent of the Seller and if a conflict arises Buyers should be aware of this agency relationship between Seller and Agent. Having said that, most Agents are keen to see the transaction go smoothly so that the experience lends itself to Buyers becoming repeat business for the Agent when it comes time for them to sell. The negotiation process will see the Agent prepare a Contract and insert the price the Buyer offers. Buyers sign the Contract and it is presented to the Seller. If the Seller accepts the terms of the Contract and signs then when that is communicated to the Buyer you have a binding Contract that you must proceed with. Alternatively the Seller may counter offer with a different sale price or another term and if accepted by the Buyer the Agent will have the Buyer initial any amendment to the original Contract, evidencing the Buyers acceptance of the new Contract and when communicated the binding Contract comes into effect. What's important for the Buyer is to recognise that by signing a Contract you may become bound to the Contract if accepted by the Seller and it is not something you can simply withdraw from. Generally for residential Contracts they should be subject to at least a finance approval condition from your bank and a satisfactory Building and Pest inspection condition and for vacant land finance approval and possibly a satisfactory soil test condition. There may be other aspects to the property and the deal that require special conditions and these are to be drafted by a solicitor. So solicitors will always want to see the Contract first before you sign to be able to properly advise you. As always this is a general guide only and all Buyers and Sellers of property should seek their own legal advice prior to entering into any Contract for the purchase or sale of any land or residential dwellings or property for investment. Brett Moller Consultant Lawyer Vandeleur & Todd Solicitors
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MSF SUGAR PARTNERS WITH AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT AND GROWERS TO IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF WATER ENTERING THE GREAT BARRIER REEF ...continued from page 1
leverage significant private investment and contributions from participating sugarcane farmers. In addition to being a unique industry approach, according to MSF Sugar’s General Manager Agriculture, Trevor Crook, “The project is significant as fertiliser nitrogen loss to the Reef remains a key threat to the health and resilience of the Reef. This is caused through direct impacts and by increasing the frequency of coral-eating crown-of-thorns starfish outbreaks”. “The major source of dissolved inorganic nitrogen reaching the Reef is nitrogen fertiliser applied to sugarcane that is not taken up by the crop”. The Project Uplift Farming Systems Initiative builds on a successful pilot project currently underway in far north Queensland’s Mulgrave area that has been funded and led by MSF Sugar. Through the pilot, harvest figures on trial blocks have been shown to produce exactly twice the return to growers in terms of dollars per hectare year on year, while minimising fertilizer runoff and other environmental impacts. According to Mr Crook, “This is a significant achievement and far exceeds the project’s initial expectations”. “Through the pilot, we demonstrated the importance of reviewing and updating cane farming systems. Using the SRA Farming System the pilot farms have vastly improved water retention year on year which has had a positive impact on water runoff”. MSF Sugar has a long-term vision to transform its mills from sugar manufacturing to biotechnology hubs where a multitude of different
products will be produced. Achieving this goal requires a stable and resilient cane supply network which can only be achieved if the sector remains viable and profitable. “As the biggest sugarcane farmer in Australia, MSF Sugar recognises that farming practices have an impact on the surrounding environment and in particular, the Great Barrier Reef. The company is therefore committed to reducing its effect on the environment, and this extends to all areas of the supply chain”, said Mr Barry. In addition to updating its own farming practices, in providing financial assistance to growers MSF Sugar will facilitate the large-scale adoption of the SRA Farming System so that forward-thinking independent growers can also minimise their impact on the Reef. The Project Uplift Farming Systems Initiative has the support of an industry steering committee which includes four CANEGROWERS representatives, three MSF Sugar representatives, and one SRA representative. Terrain NRM and the Wet Tropics Sugar Industry Partnership (WTSIP) have also been consulted in regard to project delivery and will remain as integral communication partners throughout the delivery of the project. This is not the first time MSF Sugar has been recognised and rewarded for sustainable farming practices. In 2016 the company was recognised for its strategic and positive approach to sustainable farming with the Rural Award at the Queensland Premier’s Sustainability Awards.
Robyn’s Real Estate Read Welcome to this month's Editorial of all things Real Estate. Department of Main Roads announces Stage 3 of the Cairns Southern Access Corridor EDMONTON TO GORDONVALE! It was with great excitement that I visited the display outside Piconne's IGA on Thursday and spoke with Main Roads about the now funded 4 lanes to Gordonvale! I moved to Gordonvale in 2002 when they announced a similar project off the back of Australian Airlines so it is a great movement forward for our southern region. With a current completion timeline to 2020, some of the plans include an interchange at Bentley Park and near Wrights Creek, the shifting of the Bruce Highway and existing main railway line further east in some places and an access road between Collinson Creek in Edmonton and Wright's Creek. This will then allow two extra lanes as far as Gordonvale. There are large farms that have been rezoned and a large industrial area proposed south east of Edmonton. For more info go to www.tmr.qld.gov.au Real estate sales over the last month have been steady with many out of town buyers flying in to look at properties and wanting to call our region home. If you would like to receive a Listing Checklist on how to maximize your selling price or are looking for a no obligation appraisal of your biggest asset in today's market please give me a call or email for an honest and confidential chat about your real estate needs. ROBYN HAWLEY-WHITTON M: 0488 071 007 E: robynhw@cpo.com.au
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Tropical Roofing & Drainage Solutions is your local roofing repair specialist team born and bred in Cairns, with over 10 years experience in metal roofing, fascia & gutter, roof & general plumbing, repairs, gutter guard, insulation, ridge vents, stormwater and roof painting. We pride ourselves on the quality of our workmanship, professionalism, our knowledge of the products we use and North Queensland climate but most importantly, our customer service. Rhys, a Gordonvale local, specialises in the jobs nobody wants and is proud to provide his customers, both domestic and commercial, with a fantastic experience from quote to completion. Our customers walk away fully informed, all questions answered, with a quality install at a competitive price, knowing their roof has just increased the value of their property and provided piece of mind for them for many years to come. Give us a call today for an obligation free quote, or visit our website to view our fantastic testimonials. www.tropicalroofingdscairns.com.au or Ph: 0450166329
Get Out and Get Active Get Out, Get Active is currently taking applications for projects up to $40,000 until 28 April 2017. The program provides funding for projects that will deliver community-based sport and recreation activities that increase opportunities for participation by women and girls. I invite sporting organisations to view the program guidelines at www.qld.gov.au/recreation/sports/funding/o rganisations/getoutgetactive/.
I would also encourage you all to visit www.getinvolved.qld.gov.au/. Get involved is a great website to have your say and give the Queensland government feedback on a range of issues such as the Queensland Container Refund Scheme Discussion Paper that was open last month or the Enhancing Reef Regulations Discussion Paper that is now open.
Gordonvale Local Celebrates from IGA ‘Win A Weber’ BBQ Competition Local independent retailer IGA has announced local resident Valerie Treszise as the winner of its recent ‘Win a Weber BBQ’ competition. Entrants had to complete a transaction valued at $30 or more from a participating Supa IGA, IGA or IGA X-press stores during the promotional period,1 and go to an IGA competition site link to register for the promotion. Gordonvale IGA Store manager comments: “The Win a Weber competition demonstrates that we are always keen to reward our customers’ loyalty to us. Valerie was thrilled to hear the news that she had won the competition and she was delighted to come in to the store to collect her prize.” The Gordonvale IGA team supports a range of community groups, most recently winning the ‘Most Community Minded SUPA IGA’ award. Gordonvale IGA was nominated for 11 Cornetts Supermarkets awards and won eight out of the 11 they were nominated for.
The Hearing Bus is coming to the Cairns region and Cooktown The Australian Hearing bus is stopping by the Cairns region and Cooktown to offer free hearing checks and raise hearing health awareness, to locals in the community. Now with an 11-strong fleet of ‘blue and white buses’, the mobile hearing service has provided over 40,000 free hearing checks in communities across Australia since the first bus was launched in 2009. No destination is too far-flung or offbeat! Trudie Causer, Manager at Australian Hearing Cairns said that because age-related hearing loss develops gradually over time, it is common for people be unaware their hearing is diminishing. Hearing loss is a prevalent issue in the community, with around 60 per cent of Australians over 60 suffering from some form of hearing loss. “A hearing check is a quick and easy way to measure the sounds you can and can’t hear. Our team will also be on hand to guide you through what next steps you may have to take in regards to your hearing,” said Trudie. As well as having a hearing check, visitors to the bus can find information on a range of common hearing issues and view a display of easy-to-use hearing devices for around the home. This includes headsets for watching the TV and alert systems for doorbells. Trudie said, “Not everyone who is experiencing problems hearing needs a hearing aid. Sometimes it’s just hearing the TV at normal volumes, hearing your doorbell, or hearing your friends on the phone that’s the problem.” No appointment is necessary. Australian Hearing will provide hearing checks to any interested adults who visit the bus on the day.
Australian Hearing Bus Itinerary Tuesday 4th April 8.00am – 2.00pm Piccones SUPA IGA 159 Pease Street, Manoora Wednesday 5th April 8.30am – 2.00 Cazalys Car Park, Cairns 344 Mulgrave Road, Cairns Piccones SUPA IGA Edmonton Tuesday 18th April 8.00am – 2.00pm Piccones Shopping Village Green Street, Edmonton
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Introducing Zane Watters from ZAN-E-LEC. Zane is a Gordonvale local, born & bred who has recently started up his own electrical contracting business ZAN-E-LEC. Zane has over 7 years experience in the industry in both the commercial and domestic sectors and is offering services from the Northern Beaches south to Aloomba delivering excellent customer service at very competitive prices for all types of jobs. Whether it is a complete renovation, the installation of a split system airconditioner, a rewire or switchboard upgrade, or if you just need a powerpoint installed or a light replaced, ZAN-ELEC is able to get the job done. Zane also offers an on call service after hours and weekends for any emergencies, and obligation free quotes.
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Did you know that many children are eligible for bulk-billed dentistry? With school holidays fast approaching, now is the perfect time to bring the kids in to your local dentist. Here at South Cairns Dental, we have chosen to bulk bill all eligible children under the Medicare CDBS scheme. If you are unsure if your child is eligible, simply call our friendly team on 4055 4214 and we can check their eligibility over the phone.
To ensure your children are smiling for a lifetime, it is critical to establish good oral hygiene habits from a young age. We often get asked the question, ‘At what age should I bring my child in to the dentist for their very first check up?’. The best answer is around 1 years old. By introducing children to the dental practice early on, we are able to make it a fun experience for them and avoid introducing any nasty phobias that previous generations may have been burdened with. At your child’s first dental visit we will do a thorough check of both their teeth and gums, ensure everything is developing correctly and help teach them correct brushing and dietary habits.
Council CoRNER What’s happening around the region... Headspace: Swim, Surf & Splash Party SUN 02 APR 2017, 1:00pm - 5:00pm
Location: Tobruk Memorial Pool, 370 Sheridan Street, North Cairns Contact person: Tui Nicholls 07 4041 3780 Email: tnicholls@headspacecairns.org.au Cost: Free entry The event celebrates National Youth Week and Headspace Cairns 5th Birthday, so there are twice as many reasons to celebrate! Open to anyone between the 12-25 years old
Rainbow kids yoga THU 06 APR 2017, 3:30pm - 4:30pm
Location: Hambledon House Community Centre, 177 Bruce Highway, Edmonton Contact person: Linda Ryan 07 4044 3410 Email: l.ryan@cairns.qld.gov.au Free fun and interactive yoga class for kids aged 7-10 years. Held every Thursday. To book your place contact Linda Ryan.
Cairns PCYC Cypher Hip Hop Workshops SAT 08 APR 2017, 12:00pm - 5:00pm
Location: Crosswell Hall, Cairns State High School Contact person: Dulcie Pensio Email: dulcie.pensio@pcyc.org.au As part of National Youth Week 2017 celebrations, Cairns PCYC Cypher Hip- hop Youth will be holding FREE Hip-hop Workshops.
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No experience necessary! The workshops start at a beginner level and increase as the day progresses. 2pm to 3:15pm Session Two: INTERMEDIATE LEVEL 3:45 to 5pm Session Three: ADVANCED LEVEL
Animal Education Day SAT 22 APR 2017, 8:00am - 1:00pm
Location: Norman Park, Gordonvale Contact person: Nicola Millen 0423 499 967 Email: nicola.millen@yahoo.com A fun-filled family day with a information packed program of events. There will be Vets, international and regional animal aid organisations, clubs, services and suppliers will answer all your animal questions, as well as music by Lucky Phil.
IGA Charity Car Rally SAT 29 APR 2017
Location: Start in Mareeba and end in Cooktown. Contact person: Sunny Tan 07 4041 6708 Email: stan@leukaemia.org.au The IGA Charity Car Rally is not a race but a leisurely tour of the beautiful Tropical North Queensland region. The rally is a great way to get friends, family or work colleagues together for lots of laughs and fun while supporting the Leukaemia Foundation of Queensland and the vital services it provides to the local Far North Queensland community.
Hall Yes! $7 million for Mulgrave School Halls Treasurer and Member for Mulgrave Curtis Pitt has secured $6 million to build new and upgraded halls at two local schools. Mr Pitt said the Palaszczuk Government would invest $4.5 million to build a new indoor sports hall at Gordonvale State High School and $1.5 million to refurbish the Bentley Park College hall. “This is part of our $200 million Advancing Queensland Schools funding package,” he said. “The Gordonvale High community have been calling for a new school hall for many years. “They need a fit-for-purpose venue to host assemblies, events and indoor sports. “I know how important this facility is and I am proud to have delivered for our community. “I want to congratulate the school leadership, the P&C and broader school community for their efforts to secure this funding. “I’m looking forward to seeing the difference this investment makes to education at these great local schools.” Mr Pitt said he had also secured $1 million for new special education facilities at Gordonvale State High School. He said all projects were expected to go to tender next month. “Our government is determined to give every student in every school the best possible education,” he said. “That means delivering the teachers, curriculum and school facilities we need to give students the best chance at success. “This project will also create vital jobs for local tradies and more opportunities for apprentices and trainees.”
Top of the State Bike and Car Swap Meet The Mulgrave News, along with Auto Barn, Cairns Coatings, Myers Engine Reconditioning and Stitchmaster Upholstery are proud to be major sponsors of the Top of the State Bike and Car Swap meet to be held at Cannon Park on Sunday the 9th of April in aid of the Gordonvale Mens Shed. For sale and swap on the day will be car and bike parts, bric-a-brac and collectables. Entry for all stall holders will be from 1pm on Saturday or 6am on Sunday and there is camping available for the stall holders for $5. Swap sites are $15, Show cars $10 and Trade Sites $50. Entry is only $3 and children are free. Further details call Barry: 0407741442. So get along to Cannon Park on Sunday the 9th of April and help a fantastic cause that is the Gordonvale Mens shed.
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Swap Sites $15 | Show Cars $10 | Trade Sites $50 | Camp sites for stall holders available at $5 per person | Further details call Barry: 0407741442
E Safety Parent Information Session Susan McLean from Cyber Safety Solutions is Australia’s leading cyber safety expert and educator as well as the most highly qualified of all government safety certified providers. Parents and carers of all students are invited to attend the parent information session from 6pm until 7.45 pm on Tuesday April 18th at Gordonvale State High school. There is no cost for this and parents are encourage to attend to understand the importance of cyber safety. Susan is unique in her vast knowledge and expertise in this area, and is the only person in Australia with her specific background, experience and qualifications. She is a sought after presenter and advisor and has delivered keynote presentations, written papers and regularly provides professional development for those working in education and other key youth stakeholders. She also works with students in the classroom and provides engaging parent education sessions. Susan provides consultancy services to a range of organizations including government and non government bodies, adolescent psychologists, magistrates, sporting bodies, corporate entities, law firms, mental health bodies and Medical Practitioners. Susan has an in-depth understanding of an organisation's legal obligations such as 'duty of care' and how that applies to online issues/behaviors and is an expert in cybersafety/social media policy review and development. She is a published author with her first book, a definitive guide for parents, Sexts, Texts & Selfies - how to keep your children safe in the digital space available now. Susan is a passionate advocate for child safety online and has established an enviable working relationship with most of the key players in the online world who value her extensive knowledge, balanced commentary and commitment. Law Enforcement, corporations, schools, parents and children themselves find Susan knowledgeable, approachable and most importantly she often has the ability to assist when others have failed.
Joshua Lush The Mulgrave News is proud to be able to support local youth in fulfilling their dreams in both sporting and cultural events. This month we were able to make a donation of $100 to help Joshua Lush compete in the 2017 World INAS games for athletes with an intellectual disability. The games for 2017 will be held in Bangkok in May and although open to adults Joshua will be in the 10-15 years age group. Joshua’s events include long jump and triple jump and is a reserve for the relay. Joshua’s pet event is the triple jump where he is currently ranked third in the world for under 20. Last month Joshua went to Canberra to secure his classification which included testing both on and off the track. Next trip will be to Sydney where he will attempt to qualify for the world junior championships which will take him to Switzerland in August. The cost of this trip alone will set his family back about $4000. Anyone in the Gordonvale community who would like to sponsor Josh can contact the Mulgrave News office on 40565877.
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Robyn Hawley-Whitton Ph: 07 4031 9222 Mob: 0488 071 007 Email: robynhw@cpo.com.au www.cpo.com.au
Your Local, Southern Agent Specialising in Gordonvale, Goldsborough, Edmonton and Mirriwinni to Cairns. 246-248 Dempsey Street, Gordonvale
Lot 5 Bradgan Rd, Deeral
Amazing Valley Views on Lifestyle Acreage
DU RE D CE
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W NE High 600,000's For Lovers Of Seclusion, Privacy And Space. Gorgeous executive home on 7414m2 of well utilised land. - 4 bed, Office, 2 bath blonde brick home, large rooms, modern bathrooms - Porcelain tiles & air con’d throughout, kitchen & bathrooms with granite bench tops. Two bay shed, bore, water tank, room for a horse.
NOW Offers over $630,000
4 bed, 2 bath, 2 car, 2 living areas on 4000 m2 of useable land. Elevated position with commanding views and room for large shed & pool. Tiled and quality bamboo flooring throughout, air con'd, massive veranda, so much more - be quick!
5 Bed + Office, 4 Bath, 6 Car. Private Lifestyle Retreat Plus Granny Flat on 2.55 acres. Main home is 340m2 under roof, fully tiled in & out. Large tiled entertaining area with bar & pool table included. Granny flat with 1 bed, 1 bath, 1 carport - good rental. Massive pool area in a tropical setting. Huge 3 bay powered shed with bathroom
23 Knowles St, Babinda
82 Bruce Hwy, Mirriwinni
$543,000 Neg
891-893 Woopen Creek Rd via Mirriwinni
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W NE
W NE $425,000 Neg
$240,000 Neg
Share the Love! 2 Houses, Huge Shed, 6 Acres! Gorgeous flat land with magic mountain views High Set renovated, tiled, 2 bed + office/sunroom Low Set - tiled, 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, 2 verandas Shed- 15.5m x 10.5m x 5.5m + 15m x 6m Skillion 5 Fenced Acres perfect for Cattle + Bessie & Daisy
Renovated Highset Queenslander - Potential ++ Original polished floors, spacious living areas, including a sunroom, 3 large bed, 2 way bath High ceilings, some TIG walls/ceilings, casements Tiled living areas downstairs + 2 large storerooms Situated in the Town Centre, opposite the hospital
103 Menzies Rd, Bartle Frere
38 Queen Street, Edmonton
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NE $210,000 Neg Live The Country Dream - Passion Pop Price! Set on over 1/2 an acre of flat land, bordering a lovely creek & overlooking cane fields & mountains 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom & sun room. Partly legal height - room for extra living areas Timber floors, TIG walls/ceilings, casements, lovely timber deck with clear cafe blinds Fruit trees, walking distance to the local school
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Mid $200,000's Fantastic Renovated Family Home on 1457 m2! Original polished floors, gyprocked walls & timber features New Kitchen with granite bench tops Main bedroom + nursery/office Fully tiled rear extension with beautiful bathroom Large "Man Shed", Gazebo, room to build at rear
GOLDSBOROUGH ACREAGES g itin
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Offers Over w$360,000 an
s High Set Queenslander 3 Bed, 2 Bath, 5 Car Traditional rtie & Huge Liveable Shed pe on 1012m2. House- polished o r timber floors &ptiles throughout. Modern kitchen, servery tonfront ton deck & gardens. Downstairs- 2nd bathroom m&o potential games room or loads of storage d E space. Shed- 13m x 7m x 2.3m clearance, ore Liveable powered, mezzanine, toilet, timber bar & workshop. M
1. 125-127 Windlass St Only $423,000! 2. 13-15 Prospector Cl Only $455,000 neg - SOLD 3. 85-87 Windlass St Only $435,000 neg 4. 196 Goldsborough Rd Low $500,000's 5. 54-56 Costain St SOLD ON FIRST OPEN HOME
Disclaimer: The views expressed in the Mulgrave News are not necessarily the views of the production team. Any enquiries with regards to articles can be directed to email admin@mulgravenews.com.au, phone 07 4056 5877, or coming into 76 Gordon Street, Gordonvale Qld 4865.
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