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$2 • PH: 1300 4895 00 • EDITORIAL: editor@cooktownlocalnews.com.au • Issue 655 • Thursday, March 6, 2014
Cooktown has a record-breaking IGA Some of the Cornett’s IGA Cooktown team who contributed to the store creating two company records at the recent awards presentation ceremony on the Sunshine Coast. Seen here are: (from left front) ‘Lofty’ Loftus, Mariana Tree, Annette Whitlock, Paul Scott (manager), Val Loftus and Tarsh Marshall with (from centre left) Margie McGovern, Loraine Young and Julie Ryle and (from back left) Richard Szczerba, Johnathon Lewis, Yzabelle Willcox, John O’Neill, Tom Cliff and Deborah Kirwan. Photo: GARY HUTCHISON. Full story see page 3
No show in 2014 THE 2014 Cooktown and District Agricultural Show has been cancelled, and if the community wants to have a show in 2015, a new committee will have to be formed to take up the challenge of organising the event.
Cook Shire Council has made the decision because the significant resources required to run the show are now unsustainable and do not align with council’s other commit-
ments in community services. But Cooktown is not alone in this decision. As at 2013, of the 129 shows affiliated through the
Queensland Chamber of Agricultural Societies (QCAS), only two were operated by the local council - Cooktown and Rockhampton. However,
Rockhampton
Regional Council just recently toook similar steps to facilitate the creation of a local show society. A council spokeswoman said in light of the many
continued page 3
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The Distractions
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H H H H H H H H H H H H H
New committee required to take control
challenges surrounding the running of the show, council has reflected on its contributions to other events and their equally-as-important social and economic benefits to the community.
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The Distractions
• Great Prizes • Cash Prizes • Grand Final Party!
What’s On
editor@cooktownlocalnews.com.au
EDITOR’S NOTE: If you have an upcoming event, please let us know by email to editor@cooktownlocalnews.com.au or phone Gary Hutchison on (07) 4069 5773.
WEEKLY
2nd & 4th Tuesday, every month. Trivia Night at the Coktown RSL Memorial Club, 7pm. Info call 4069 5780. Every Thursday. Bush Bingo, 10am, and Social Darts, 7pm, at the Bowls Club. Every Friday. Monster Meat Raffles in the Caf Bar, @ The Sovereign, from 6pm. Every Friday. Members Draw, from 6.30pm; Raffles and Lucky Pokies Seat, 8-8.30pm, at the Bowls Club. Every Friday. Members Draw (7.30-8.30pm) @ the Cooktown RSL Memorial Club plus raffles. Every Saturday. Lions Club raffles and members' draw at the Top Pub, from 12 noon to 3pm. Every Sunday. Social Bowls, from 8.30am, Bowls Club. Every Sunday and Tuesday. Cooktown Alcoholics Anonymous meeting in the CWA Hall in Charlotte Street. Sunday: from 1.30pm, Tuesday from 8pm. Call 4069 5626 for details. Every Tuesday. Cards and Games morning, 10am, Bowls Club. Every Tuesday and Thursday. Swim for Your Life at the Cooktown Pool from 9am to 10pm. Every Wednesday. Social Bowls, from 1pm, at the Bowls Club. Every Wednesday and Saturday. Cooktown Pool - Aqua Aerobics: Wednesday from 5.30pm to 6.30pm, Saturday 12 noon to 1pm.
MARCH
Thu 6. Soundfield Launch at the George Bowen Memorial Kindergarten, 9am, 3 Poland St, Hopevale. Everyone welcome. Thu 6. Cooktown Horse Sports general meeting, 6pm at the Bowl's Club. Thu 6. NRL Tipping Comp commences at the Cooktown RSL Memorial Club. Fri 7. The Distraction live in the Caf Bar @ The Sovereign. Sat 8. Cooktown Amateur Turf Club Annual Barbecue for all sponsors, volunteer workers and members, 6pm at the clubrooms. RSVP 4069 5262. Sun 9. Sunday Session, with The Distractions live, 1-5pm on the Verandah @ The Sovereign. Mon 10. Annual General Meeting of the Cape York Weeds and Feral Animals Program Inc., 4pm, CWA Hall, Cooktown. Sat 15. Cape York Dreaming Track Information Session, 11.30am to 1.30pm at The Lions Den. Sat 15. Cook Shire Community Action Group meeting at the PCYC Cooktown Events Centre from 2pm. Mon - Wed, 17 - 19. Ordinary Meeting of Cook Shire Council, from 9am @ Council's administration building. Phone 4069 5444. Thu 20. National Close the Gap Day. Fri 21. Harmony Day.
letters to the editor Kempton’s comments on road funding IT is important when our Government makes an announcement in relation to major infrastructure spending in the electorate, that it is reported for what it is and not misrepresented. The $10 million I recently announced for improvements to the Peninsula Development Road comes after many months of intense lobbying. These funds will be applied toward the sealing of about 25km of road as part of a long term strategy to upgrade it. A strategy that never mattered to the previous Government. Premier Campbell Newman never promised $40 million funding for infrastructure in Cape York. Prior to the Federal election, the ALP promised to spend $250 million in Cape York, dependent upon the State putting in $40 million which we never promised and frankly, didn’t have. Warren Entsch and the coalition have now committed $210 million to Cape York infrastructure, money that is not dependent upon the State putting up
funds. I am pushing for an upgrade of the McLeod River crossing and fighting hard for funds to upgrade Rifle Creek, both sadly neglected by Labor for 20 years. In the end, it comes down to the availability of funding. Labor left us with a debt of $14 for every man, woman and child in this State. Not everyone is happy with the intended upgrades, but my commitment to my electorate is that it will look a lot better in 12 months’ time than it did when I took this seat two years ago. David Kempton Member for Cook
Takes many people in the Global Village to raise a child TWO local boys 16 or 17, meet for the first time since school broke up, in front of my vehicle whilst I pack my groceries. They discuss two subjects, one likely life-threatening, the other merely disturbing. Each boasted to the other, just how often and how badly they got “maggotted” during their school holidays - I assume their term
for exceedingly drunk. Second, each complimented the other on what levels they had attained, on a number of, waste of human endeavour, computer games. Why is it up to our sports people, to do all the heavy lifting, in proving themselves as virtuous role models, to our young men and women? Justin Bieber, is surely living proof the three stooges really did sire children. Honestly, Mrs Kelly would not let young Ned go out and play with him. With millions of twitter followers in Australia, his popularity and influence on the psyche of our young folk is beyond question. Bieber’s rattling with prescription drugs, awash with alcohol and with a lung full of “wacky tobaccy”, raced his Lamborghini against another funeral maker’s Ferrari. Thankfully police caught them, “going faster than last week’s pay”. If we are serious, and we should be, about tackling binge drinking in our young people, then let us go in boots and all, take no prisoners. Ban Bieber from obtaining a visa to visit Australia, ban his music, videos and movies from broadcast and sale for a period of say two
Where we go: Approx 1400 copies distributed every Thursday throughout Cooktown, Hope Vale, Rossville, Wujal Wujal, Bloomfield, Ayton, Marton, Port Douglas, Mossman, Cairns, Lakeland Downs/Laura, Mt Carbine/Mt Molloy, Mareeba and Coen, and subscribers across Australia and overseas.
It takes many people in the Global Village to raise a child, all must evenly share the duty of care. Phil Jurd Rossville
News PHOTO COMP THE first winner in the 2014 Cornett’s IGA Cooktown and Cooktown Local News photo competition is Jacynta Hunt’s image titled, “The Serenity”, which was taken at Trevethan Falls. Each week, the IGA will donate a $25 meat voucher to the successful photographer. It took Jacynta’s husband Wayne’s superior 4WD driving skills in negotiating a washed-out causeway to get her there, but he must be wondering “why” though, because Jacynta’s entry just beat the one submitted by him, which was taken at Isabella Falls. It’s great to see some family rivalry so early in the competition. Photographers now have until 5pm next Monday, March 10 to submit their entries for the next stage of the competition. Jacynta’s winning entry will be printed and displayed in a gallery the IGA has prepared in their store.
To submit an entry send your photo as an email attachment to editor@cooktownlocalnews.com.au and please include your contact phone number. Photos need to be in full resolution, between 1mb and 10mb in size. Photos with date stamps impressed into them will not be considered.... Happy snapping!
Contacts & Deadlines Editor: (07) 4069 5773 Editor’s mobile: 0411 722 807 People wishing to meet in person with the editor can do so by calling him, and he will arrange a time to meet with you at a mutually convenient location. All advertising / accounts enquiries, please call: 1300 4895 00 or (07) 4098 2281 Mobile: 0419 828 639 Fax: 1300 787 248
Former Prime Minister Paul Keating has already set the precedent by banning an entry visa for World War II historian David Irving, for upsetting the sensitivities of Australia’s Jewish community when he announced his findings, that in his opinion, the holocaust numbers may have been exaggerated. Banning Irving was never going to save a life, far from it; banning Bieber could well do.
Cooktown Local
CHURCH SERVICES Baptist: Hogg Street, near IGA, 9.30am Sun. Phone 4069 5155. Cooktown Community Church (AOG/ACC): Gungarde Hall, 9.30am Sun; Home Group 7.30am Wed. Phone 4069 5070, 0427 756 793. Catholic: 6pm Sat and 8.30am Sun, St Mary's, Cooktown. Phone 4069 5730. Anglican: Christ Church Chapel, Sun 8.30am. Phone 4069 6778, 0428 696 493. Lutheran: Hope Vale at 9am on Sunday, Cooktown. Phone either 4060 9197 or 0419 023 114.
years. This is the message we need to deliver to Bieber and his destructive ilk. We must quickly cast aside our long held acceptance and even expectancy of poor behaviour, from supposed stars of music, movies and television. An opportunity exists here for Australia to show true international leadership, other countries experiencing a similar youth binge drinking dilemma, such as New Zealand, Great Britain and the US, will surely ponder Australia’s decision, and may well follow suit, adding further weight to the remedy.
EDITOR: Gary Hutchison editor@cooktownlocalnews.com.au GENERAL MANAGER & AD DESIGN: Sharon Gallery ads@cooktownlocalnews.com.au
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2 – Cooktown Local News – Thursday, March 6, 2014
Letters to the editor
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Real news for real Australia
CHAIRMAN: Mark Bousen editor@regionalandremote.com.au PUBLISHER: Corey Bousen publisher@regionalandremote.com.au MANAGING EDITOR: Mark Bousen editor@regionalandremote.com.au ACCOUNTS: Sharon Gallery, General Manager accounts@cooktownlocalnews.com.au
Letters to the Editor are published as a free community service and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Cooktown Local News nor its management. Letters must be legible, preferably less than 250 words, carry a name and address, and be signed. A telephone number or similar identification must also be provided. Unsigned and anonymous letters, or use of a nom de plume, eg Concerned Citizen, etc will not be accepted. Names withheld on discretion of the publisher. Letters may be edited for space or content or omitted altogether at the discretion of the editor. Mail to: PO Box 36, Cooktown, Qld, 4895 Fax: 1300 787 248 or Email: editor@cooktownlocalnews.com.au.
NEWS
No show in 2014 – new committee required from page 1 “It is obvious the community is best placed to co-ordinate their own show, make all the decisions, attract the volunteers required, apply for funding that council cannot, create strong relationships with other community organisations and inject a strong sense of community ownership,” she said. “Traditionally, shows are driven by the community, their value lies in their ability to provide a fun, family event, showcasing agricultural and pastoral industries and displaying the talents of local residents.”
She said council has not abandoned the concept of a show and will continue its commitment by working to create a more sustainable show in the long term. “We’ll do this by facilitating and supporting the development of a new show society, pending community interest,” she said. “Part of the existing budgetary allocation that was to be used for this year’s show will now be redirected into the development of this new community group and part will be distributed to other key events across the shire as a one-off donation.
“Events such as the Lakeland Horse Sports, Coen Christmas Party, Cooktown Races and Wallaby Creek Festival will all share in additional funding support from council.” Council will invite all interested persons to attend a general meeting at a date in late April or early May, when CEO of Queensland Shows, Mark Bryant will visit Cooktown to address the group and assist in the formation of a new show society. Council has already been in contact with Mr Bryant about its decision. “From here, council will continue to work
with the new show society to support the necessary applications surrounding its new governance model and provide intensive workshops with QCAS representatives and other neighbouring show coordinators, as required,” the spokeswoman said. She assured potential new committee members and volunteers that council does not wish to hand the event over without the new organisers feeling comfortable and capable with all aspects of the show. “This is why enough time is being allowed between now and the 2015 show to develop
this group to such a level where they are well-prepared to deliver a great event,” she said. Since its humble beginning as a small community event held at the Cook Shire Council administration building celebrating Leichhardt Day in 2007, to being held over two full days at the Cooktown Racecourse with rides, stalls, food and entertainment to rival larger regional events, the Cooktown and District Country Show had grown into one of the community’s annual favourites. In 2012, volunteers began taking on increased responsibility for the
show, in regard to sponsorship, marketing, coordination and administrative support. The intention was to up-skill volunteers to the point where they could essentially, one day take over full management.
pected in their roles, offering hundreds of hours of volunteer time each year to help bring this wonderful community event to the people of Cooktown and surrounding district.”
She said council would like to take the opportunity to offer its sincerest thanks to the many volunteers who have previously given their valuable time to the show over the past seven years.
Details of when the public meeting will be held to form a new show society will be advertised in the Cooktown Local News and in social media.
“Special thanks go to those who have held positions on the Show Advisory Committee,” she said. “They went well over and above what was ex-
For all inquiries contact Council’s Economic Development and Community Services team on 4069 5444 or email mail@cook.qld.gov.au.
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RESTAURANT
Unless the Cooktown community can form a committee to run its own show, thrill seekers will have to find their whiteknuckle, hair-raising, hat-holding adrenaline rushes like this they received last year in other places.
Cooktown has a record-breaking IGA from page 1 CORNETT’S IGA Cooktown store established two company records at the group’s recent annual awards held at Novotel Twin Waters Resort on the Sunshine Coast. From 34 stories across the state, Cooktown’s own little supermarket received 11 nominations in 15 of the available categories to see the locals bring home seven gongs. Store Manager of the Year Paul Scott said the rewards reaped by his crew were a testament to a team’s commitment to excellence in providing an overall shopping experience for their customers.
“These are very prestigious awards from within a very large company and I am so very proud of my team,” he said.
• Best Increase in Sales; • Store of the Year; and • Store Manager of the Year.
“They’re performance-based and while we outshone our own expectations at the awards night, I honestly believe my guys deserved them.
The categories for which the store received unsuccessful nominations were: Most Community Minded IGA, General Merchandising, Best Deli and Best Tobacco Stock Control.
“They’ve worked hard and committed themselves in every aspect of their work.”
Paul assured customers that Stage 2 of their planned renovations would start very soon.
Categories for which Cooktown were nominated and won are:
“There will be no more delays, with everything hopefully being finished by the end of the year,” he said.
• Customer Service; • Best Dairy Cabinet; • Best Meat; • Most Improved;
“And this includes a fullyconcreted car park.” Cornett’s IGA Chief Executive Officer Graham Booysen
applauded the efforts of Paul and his team and said the crew had given its customers the supermarket they wanted. Mr Booysen said assessments were done by the company’s senior management on the basIs of the store’s visual aspect, numbers and performance. Re-enforcing Paul’s assurances about the renovations, he said there were more enhancements to come. “There’s still a long way to go,” he said. “Cooktown is a work in progress, but when it’s finished, there shouldn’t be too many who won’t be pleased with the result.”
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Cooktown Local News – Thursday, March 6, 2014 – 3
NEWS
A chance for our local women to celebrate their day COOKTOWN’S women will have the opportunity to celebrate International Women’s Day this Saturday, along with an opportunity to contribute to a better life for some needy children overseas. Contrary to the misconception that functions such as the one planned for the Bowls Club, International Women’s Day is not only for career women. “It’s a celebration for all women – whether they be mums, grandmothers, workers, business owners or career women of any kind,” said organiser Karen Olsen. “The idea is to celebrate the achievements of women, whatever they may be. “And isn’t being a mother one of the greatest things a woman can do? “So, we’re inviting all Cooktown women to come along and celebrate our day.” Scheduled to start at about 12.30pm and finishing at about 5pm, Karen promised lots of entertainment, activities,
some food and even a complimentary wine to start the day. And all just for $25. “There’ll be lots of fun and frivolity, with finger food and a free wine to start the day,” she said. “Entertainment will include some belly dancing, some Bollywood dancing, raffles, an auction, a mini trivia competition, informative talks and a fashion parade.” But while the day is wholly-designed for Cooktown’s ladies, there are no restrictions on gender for those wanting to buy tickets in the major raffle for which the prize is seven-days’ accommodation at a bed and breakfast in Bali. “At only $5 a ticket,
that’s an outstanding prize and men as well as women can buy tickets,” she said. Tickets can be purchased from tomorrow at either the Bowls Club or from Karen at Rainforest Real Estate. Beneficiaries from the profits from the function will be the underprivileged and orphaned children of Rothi Island, which is just off Kupung. “Children like this, regardless of where they are from in the world deserve whatever help we can give them,” she said. “I’m hoping lots of our local ladies will come along and open their hearts for the cause, as well as having a good time.”
New pilings installed at the Cooktown Wharf last week. Photo: GARY HUTCHISON.
Cooktown Wharf renovations have started WORK on the planned Cooktown Wharf renovations started last week with the removal of the existing pilings on the floating pontoon. Council had become aware the pilings had deteriorated, with their positioning in a suboptimal location causing ongoing expensive repairs. Heavy machinery already in the vicinity of the site, was used to install new composite fibre piles. These piles have the benefit of being strong like steel with the flexibility of
Karen Olsen and Bethne Webber at last year’s International Women’s Day function at the Cooktown Bowls Club. Photo: GARY HUTCHISON.
5 Entry Fee
per Person
a difference
Come and join the fun of our Trivia Nights… Get together your team of 2 – 6 people. Entry fees donated to local charities and non-profit organisations.
Cooktown RSL Memorial Club 2nd and 4th Tuesday of every month @ 7pm
(Next game: Tuesday, MARCH 11)
Enquiries call 4069 5780 • Entry fees this game donated to Cooktown Historical Society 4 – Cooktown Local News – Thursday, March 6, 2014
timber, but are also completely impervious to harsh marine environmental conditions and have a design life in excess of 100 years.
which should see vessel berthing significantly easier with the pontoon now pulled out in-line with the existing adjacent structures.
will cost approximately $850,000, of which $640,000 is being contributed by the The Department of Transport and Main Roads.
The new pilings were installed last Saturday in such a position that they will ultimately be located at the ends of the floating pontoon when it is re-installed. It is anticipated the new location of the piles will prevent damage to the pontoon hinges given the neutral axis of the pontoon. Consideration has also been given to where the final location of the floating pontoon,
Access when completed to the refurbished floating pontoon will be directly from the land adjacent to the pontoon.
Once completed, Cook Shire Council will then own the facility moving into the future and be responsible for all ongoing maintenance.
Divers will arrive mid-to-late this week to concrete around the three new piles, which will further stabilise them before they are concrete filled by Council. Total upgrade works to the Cooktown Wharf
The no-maintenance period for the composite fibre structure is approximately 100 years. Council has extended its apologies for any inconvenience caused to the public.
Roadworks to recommence on Rossville/Bloomfield Road THE drive to Ayton will soon be much smoother with Cook Shire Council’s road works crew set to recommence work on the Rossville/Bloomfield Road in early/mid 2014.
As soon as a supply of road material is obtained and the wet weather has eased enough to ensure the integrity of any works undertaken, council plans to continue works, which will see it
completed and sealed all the way to Rossville. Council plans after that will be to continue its works to have the remaining seven kilometres to Ayton sealed by the end of 2014.
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PROFILE
Life of retail experience behind local manager similar? “No – school and I disagreed. Or the teachers disagreed with my thinking, so it was time to go.”
Story and photo by ERIC GEORGE PAUL Scott is a very important man around Cooktown – perhaps the most important person we have. He manages the IGA, our local supermarket and so is responsible for keeping us and our pets fed and clean, and making sure we do not have to go into town in dirty clothes. He is one of the keystones of our community. We met for a chat in his office, hidden deep in the supermarket complex, and I started by asking him if he is a local boy. “No, I was born in Horsham, Victoria. I went to school in Ballarat and, when I left school, got a casual job as a box boy with Self Serve Wholesalers.” It sounds as if Paul went straight into the retail business. Did he want to do that as a school boy, or did he dream of a career as an astronaut or
Looking back, does Paul wish he had spent longer at school? “Yes. Retail is one of the hardest, demanding professions on yourself and on your family. It’s a seven-day operation, you have to work nights and weekends. The buck stops with the store manager. Do I wish I had done things differently? Ah well, I’ve enjoyed it. But, try harder at school; that’s a very important thing. “We have a lot of school kids here, working at week-ends and of a night. They’re a good bunch of kids and, if they want to have a go, we’ll certainly help them. We get the kids who want to move forward in their lives, and we certainly enjoy helping them.” Paul started out in Ballarat; when did he start moving around? “I stayed there for 10 years and then went to Melbourne as an assistant manager. Then I was fortunate enough to get a position with Johnson and Johnson, medical and hygiene products. I was still calling on stores, but it gave me another insight into
more aggressive on our prices. People don’t have to drive to Mareeba anymore. We’ve put a new meat display cabinet in. We’ve come to an agreement with the local Cooktown butcher and now he does all of our fresh meat, which is excellent. We still bring in cryovacced meat, which is good for the tourists.”
Staff member Andrea Atkin shares a joke with Cornett’s IGA Cooktown store manager Paul Scott. the retail industry.” Did that job make Paul kinder to salesmen now? He laughs and says, “Yes, I can see both sides of the fence now. It was quite enjoyable. “I had a very good friend who bought a store in Port Douglas and I went up to see him on holiday. I just loved it and said, I don’t care what you do, I need to come up here with you. Two years later, I moved up with my family, and never looked back. I’ve been up here for 15 years. “I saw Port Douglas grow. We got there after
the Sheraton had been built, but there was still a buzz. Then Coles moved in and my friend’s store closed. Soon after, I came to Cooktown. I was the IGA manager here; that was 10 years ago.” Now I was getting confused. I thought Paul was the new manager here, but he came 10 years ago? “I was here for a couple of years, and then they moved me back to Port Douglas.” Paul has lived in both Cooktown and Port Douglas. Can he put his finger on the main differences between the two?
“It’s different in Port because there you are only an hour away from Cairns. Here it is four hours, so we have the best of both worlds. I like Port Douglas, but I like Cooktown too. You have the Cooktown charm, but Port Douglas has its charm too. “I hope, as the mayor said in the paper last week, we have two pharmacies and two supermarkets... it’s fine to say that, but you have to have the people for it. It’s God’s country up here. If you love the outdoors, camping, fishing,
the quiet life, it’s a great community.” Every day, Paul is running one of our most important facilities. What is that like? “I was fortunate that they are going to refit the supermarket and they needed an experienced store manager here. A store manager who can bring everyone together. I accepted the challenge and we have done a lot in the last 18 months. “We’ve put all new fridges and display cabinets, and a new deli. We’ve put more product range in, and we are
There are rumours of big things to come at the supermarket. Can Paul tell us, or are they still secret? “No – I can tell you. This year we will see small changes, starting with new shelving. Then new registers – state of the art. And new cool rooms. They are very small now and we have outgrown them. The new ones will be triple present capacity. There are walls to be knocked down, and the fruit and veg will expand. We will probably pick up another 30 per cent of floor space.” Apart from work, why has Paul chosen Cooktown as home? Is he a fisherman? “I enjoy fishing. But we have been busy in the supermarket. The common joke for my bosses is to ask ‘Well? How many did you catch today?’ We’re a little busy now, but I get out maybe once a month.”
Govt issues high-level warning to insurers Cooktown RSL Memorial Club
INCORPORATED
THE upper echelon of Australian insurers was put on notice by the Assistant Treasurer last Friday, with Senator Arthur Sinodinos telling the industry’s annual conference that increasing insurance affordability in North Queensland was firmly on the Government’s agenda. The move has been strongly endorsed by Leichhardt MP Warren Entsch, who said it was fantastic to see the issue being put “fair and square” into the national arena. Providing the keynote address at the 2014 Insurance Council of Australia Regulatory Update Seminar, Senator Sinodinos described insurance affordability in FNQ as a “vexed issue”. “Insurance needs to be affordable and accessible,” he told the gathering of insurance company CEOs and industry executives on Friday. “If insurance is unaffordable and out of reach, people are left vulnerable and can be unable to withstand financial setbacks.” Senator Sinodinos said that during visits to North Queensland over the last 12 months he had heard “some real horror stories” about the jump in insurance premiums. “Whilst it’s important for us to look at
what is driving some of that and how we can mitigate the increase, in the absence of any progress on this issue, we as a Government have decided to take action to address this problem,” he said. Mr Entsch said it was very significant to see acknowledgement of the insurance crisis at such a high level and congratulated the Assistant Treasurer for his advocacy. “Arthur has been here, he’s spoken to people who have been impacted, he actually understands the crisis, and now he’s addressing the Insurance Council of Australia – an organisation that’s had its head in the sand for far too long,” Mr Entsch said. “With the issue being featured in Friday’s Financial Review, people will start to realise that it’s not just a local issue for Cairns and other parts of Northern Australia. “This is a national issue for Brisbane, Melbourne, Sydney and Canberra… all those mum and dad investors who have put their life savings into a dream holiday unit in the Whitsundays or Cairns or Port Douglas and have now seen their investment crash.” In his address to the ICA, the Assistant Treasurer outlined the key actions that the Federal Government is currently undertaking, including the development of an
insurance aggregator website for the North Queensland insurance market for strata, home building and contents insurance, as well as development of a program of engineering assessments for strata properties in North Queensland, to identify risks that can be mitigated.
127 Charlotte St, Cooktown
In addition, the Australian Government Actuary is due to report back in April on a study into insurance prices for FNQ strata properties over the last eight years, comparing them to those in Melbourne, Sydney and Adelaide, to increase transparency around the causes of strata insurance prices in North Queensland over recent years.
Ph: 4069 5780 • Fax: 4069 6080 Email: cooktown.rsl@bigpond.com
“It’s important to acknowledge that no single initiative will address this complex issue,” Mr Entsch said. “However, all of these actions are a significant step in the right direction. “We’ll also be tying in with the State Government’s action plan, which working to address their areas of responsibility. “Together with the pressure we’re putting on the insurance companies, and legislative and regulatory measures we’re looking at outlining in the Budget, there’s no doubt that this Government is absolutely committed to putting downward pressure on insurance premiums.”
• Relax, enjoy a cold beer in airconditioned comfort • Friday Night Courtesy Bus • Bar Snacks, 5pm • Big screen TV • Pokies • Plus… Members Draw (you must be here to win)
Member not present for the $1200 draw was Anthony Rosendale.
This week:
$1300!
Drawn between 7.30pm - 8.30pm.
Cooktown Local News – Thursday, March 6, 2014 – 5
NEWS
Dogs Shock collars no answer find new to barking problem: Vets homes THE Australian Veterinary Association has said electronic collars will not solve dog barking problems, but will in fact make behaviour problems worse.
REMEMBER the cute face from the front page of last week’s edition of the Cooktown Local News? Well, as a result of that story, that pretty little princess has since been re-united with her owners. And not only was it a good result for her, but two other dogs were adopted into new homes also. Unfortunately though, there have been some
new pooches who have been forced to take up residence at council’s “pet motel”. So, if you are missing your faithful pet, contact council on 4069 5444 to ascertain if it is now there.
refer you to a veterinary behaviourist who can uncover the underlying motivation behind the barking. They could recommend environmental management behaviour modification and possibly medication to treat the problem;
AVA spokeswoman Dr Katrina Ward said that while their dog’s behavioural problems can be concerning, owners should never resort to electronic collars as a situation. “These collars may be referred to as e collars, shock or static collars, and owners may be advised to use them as a quick fix to barking problems,” she said.
Or, if you are a responsible, loving pet owner in search of a new friend, council would also love to hear from you too.
“But make no mistake – these collars inflict pain, can cause friction sores and inflammation around the neck and will lead to more fearful, anxious and aggressive behaviour.
But remember, for a couple of reasons, they won’t be there long.
“It can also lead to helplessness as the dog shuts down all behaviours in order to avoid the shock. In some cases, incor-
• Use the principles of reward-based training because they are the best and safest strategy to reduce barking; Wireless shock collar for Dogs. It used to be that shock collars were the ideal way to train your dog. rect fitting can result in punishing the dog when it’s not barking. “These collars are a bad idea any way you view them and in some jurisdictions are illegal.” If dogs are causing problems from excessive barking, owners should: • Go to their vet for advice. They may
• Not to expect a quick fix. Barking is a normal behaviour in dogs and it can take time to teach dogs new ways of behaving. Punishment is never the solution to control a particular behaviour. It only makes the problem worse. The AVA is running a Polite Pets Month Campaign in March to help pet owners become aware of the best way to deal with behaviour problems in pets. For more information visit http://www.ava.com.au/ polite-pets-month.
More than $1.5 million committed to road safety in Cook Shire MORE than $1.5 million worth of new safety projects will be rolled out across Cook to tackle the road toll as part of a $350 million state-wide initiative. David Kempton, Member for Cook, said the Road Safety Action Plan allocates funding to address black spots on Queensland’s road network. “These projects are part of our election promise to deliver better infrastructure and better planning while providing costeffective solutions to make our roads safer,” he said. Some of the key local works to improve safety include: Remember this cute little princess from last week? Well, she’s been re-united with her owners. Photo: GARY HUTCHISON.
Cooktown RSL Memorial Club
• installation of audio-tactile line marking on edge and centre lines on Mulligan Highway between Mount Molloy and Lakeland ($450,000); • motorcycle safety treatments on the Rex Range
T! STARTS TONIGHH 6 THURSDAY, MARC FREE drinks and bar snacks for competition players during the Grand Final. 6 – Cooktown Local News – Thursday, March 6, 2014
David Kempton, Member for Cook. ($650,000); • provide stock fencing along the Mulligan Highway between Mount Molloy and Lakeland ($260,000); and • installation of barriers along sections of the Mulligan Highway ($385,000).
“These works are due for completion by the end of the year and will provide safety benefits by improving the highway infrastructure and making the Rex Range more motorcycle friendly,” Mr Kempton said.
Transport and Main Roads Minister Scott Emerson said projects were decided on by the Safer Roads Sooner Advisory Committee, chaired by Member for Pine Rivers Seath Holswich.
He said the projects were among 60 action items the government was delivering to improve road safety and drive down the road toll.
“Mr Holswich has been a strong advocate on road safety issues in his electorate and is passionate about ensuring safer roads for Queensland motorists and pedestrians,” Mr Emerson said.
“Any death on our road is a tragedy, that is why we must continue to invest in these important safety works,” he said. “While we have seen a decrease in the road toll, there are still too many lives lost on our roads each year.” The Safer Roads Sooner program delivers high-benefit, cost-effective, road engineering treatments that address known high risk crash hot spots on our network.
“The Safer Roads Sooner Advisory Committee reviews the recommended program of works.” The Road Safety Action Plan also includes other priorities such as $2 million a year for a community road safety fund, on-going roll out of flashing lights at more than 300 schools, safety advertising and license reforms.
Winners are grinners Round 1 winners of the Cookktown RSL Memorial Club’s fortnightly Trvia Competition: Round 1 winners: Susan Jeffs, Greta Roberts and Deirdre Murphy and Garry Murphy. Photo submitted.
NEWS
A day of pure nature and inspiration
Walking in a stream to their next waterfall on last Sunday’s trek, were Cooktown bushwalkers Elke Gear, Lewis Collins, Mike Geary and Prue Mulcahy. Cooktown bushwalkers Carol Fossett, Mike Geary, Elke Gear and Prue Mulcahy take a break on a rock ledge above a fast-flowing stream. Photos submitted.
By ELKE GEAR AFTER a rainy Saturday night, only five turned up for Sunday’s bush walk. The destination: a couple of remote waterfalls one hour’s drive north of
Cooktown. To our surprise though, the day quickly became sunny and warm - perfect for exploring under the damp canopy of the rainforest. The walk started with a steep incline following an
old, eroded track. Soon we arrived at a beautiful sandstone creek, and from there on we were following the wise navigating of Lewis through varied landscapes, thick and thin. After a couple of frantic wasp attacks
and admiring beautiful clear flowing pools of the creek, we briefly stood at the top of a magnificent waterfall. We walked cautiously down a very steep decline to the base of the falls where we filled our bellies, swam under the pelting fall of the water and appreciated the spectacular wall that rose high above us a rock wall partially covered
with green ferns, lush and dream-like. Onwards we went, following sandstone creeks where we found another waterfall, a white, noisy, staircase. Swims and time spent sitting in awe were had. We continued walking in or along the creek, and as we departed the same spot we arrived at
first, more swims couldn’t be resisted. Quietly, we headed back down the old, eroded track, each of us I’m sure feeling the freedom that the day brought. A day of pure nature and inspiration. For more information about the next bush walk, contact Prue on 4069 6527. Everyone is welcome.
‘Little Old Man’ statue has a creator BRONZE artist of international standing, Aden Mcleod, has been awarded the task of sculpting a lifesize bronze statue of a “Little Old Aboriginal Man” who instigated the first reconciliation in Australia’s history. The momentous event occurred with Captain Cook at the Endeavour River in 1770. Aden, who resides in Jaggan on the Atherton Tablelands, will travel to Cooktown to meet with the LOM Statue Planning Group in March 2014. Born in Texas, of Scottish and Cherokee descent, Aden has captured the likeness of world figures, historical identities and outback characters with his distinctive style. He is passionate about people and portraits. An Australian resident since 1972, he has trav-
PLEASE COME & JOIN US!
Aden Mcleod. Photo: GO TROPPO ARTS FESTIVAL, PORT DOUGLAS. elled widely throughout Australia, sculpting and teaching in cities, rural communities, remote towns, stations and isolated Aboriginal communities.
and many other outback towns.
In 2002, as an official sculptor for the Year of the Outback, he met and sculpted Indigenous people from the Kimberley, Katherine, Tennant Creek, Boorooloola, Manyallaluk, Yarrabah
In 2005, Aden was commissioned by Don College in Devonport, Tasmania, to sculpt three busts of Trugganini, Manalagena and Wapperty, which are used to display historic shell necklaces.
Some of the works created were of Yarrabah elder Dennis Koowotha and Mickey Nothing from Tennant Creek.
COMMUNITY INFORMATIONFIRST STAGE CONSTRUCTION START AT BLACK MOUNTAIN IN APRIL Traditional Owners, Balkanu and Jabalbina invite you to an information session to inform you and answer your questions about the Cape York Dreaming Track tourism project and the start of construction which is scheduled at Black Mountain in April 2014. We hope you will come to hear about this exciting traditional owner led initiative, which serves the interest of all members of the Cape York community.
WHEN: SATURDAY 15TH MARCH where: THE LIONS DEN HOTEL TIME: 11:30AM TO 1:30PM Light refreshments will be served, feel free to call Harold Ludwick on 0428 946 103 for more information Cooktown Local News – Thursday, March 6, 2014 – 7
NEWS
Tasty meal for Pennefather croc WEIPA man Max Walters just happened to be in the “right place at the right time” to snap this photo of a crocodile snacking on a green turtle on Pennefather Beach last Sunday. “It’s the sort of photo everyone else gets,” Max said. “My wife saw the croc burst out of the water onto the sand with the turtle in its mouth and we just
couldn’t believe what we were witnessing.” Max estimated the crocodile to be more than four-metres long and said the turtle was approximately half a metre across the shell. “I took dozens of photos trying to get just the right shot, which was difficult with the movement of the water. I certainly wasn’t getting any closer!” he said.
Locals represent at Townsville Reef rescue meeting Story and photos by ALF WILSON RANGERS Michael and Larissa Hale representing the Yuku Baja Muliku people from the Cooktown area attended a meeting in Townsville March for talks hosted by WWFAustralia and the Gudjuda Reference Group on Saturday, March 1 as concerns grow about the industrialisation of the Great Barrier Reef. The five Traditional Owner organisations representing saltwater people from Bundaberg to Cooktown were at the meeting at Reef HQ beside Ross Creek. Two of the organisations – the Gudjuda Reference Group and the Girringun Aboriginal Corporation – have been working in partnership
with WWF to protect the Reef since signing Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) in 2009 and 2010 respectively. They were joined at the meeting by representatives of the Wulgurukaba people and the Gidarjil Aboriginal Corporation. The meeting brought together salt water people whose sea country covers nearly threequarters of the Reef and they discussed increasing concerns for this natural wonder of the world. “Saltwater people have a connection to the Reef built up over many thousands of years, and it’s crucial that they are more involved in its protection,” said Darren Grover, WWF National Manager for Indigenous Partnerships. WWF-Australia works with saltwater people to
source sponsorship and funding so that Traditional Owners can patrol their sea country with a particular focus on monitoring water quality and turtles, dugongs and inshore dolphins. “We’ve come a long way since we signed an MOU with WWF in 2009,” said Gudjuda Reference Group Chairperson Eddie Smallwood. “We now have five Indigenous land and sea rangers and we’ve done a lot of research into the turtle papilloma virus in partnership with James Cook University and Queensland Government turtle researchers. “With the increasing industrialisation of the Reef, we need to make sure we have the resources to monitor seagrass and water quality and check for impacts on turtles, dugongs and inshore
dolphins.” Mr Hale is a senior ranger with Yuku Baja Muliku Landowners and Reserves Ltd at Archer Point and said he enjoyed the meeting. “I have met with many of those here before and it has been good to touch base,” he said. Gudjuda Board Member and Birri Gubba Juru elder Jim Gaston remembered the humble beginnings of turtle monitoring and said, “It started with just the two of us – me and the missus – and for 12 years we funded it out of our own pockets. “Now we have scientific research, animal ethics and GBRMPA permits and about 30 people helping. “We’ve tagged and measured 1100 turtles and sent the information back to the Queensland
Yuka Baja Muliku Rangers Michael and Larissa Hale in Townsville’s turtle hospital. Government.” Mr Gaston said he just wanted to make sure his grandchildren and the next generation will have turtles to observe and monitor. “I am very concerned about the industrialisa-
tion of the Reef,” he said. Cliff Cobbo, WWF Conservation on Country Policy Manager, said the meeting was an important gathering because it was bringing together the leadership of the Reef’s saltwater people.
“There’s no denying the Reef’s in trouble,” he said. “Indigenous people want a stronger role in protecting and rescuing the Reef and its creatures and that’s what this meeting is all about.”
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See us on domain.com.au and www.cooktownparadise.com.au Find us back at 116 Charlotte St (Cnr Furneaux St) Cooktown • 4069 5922 8 – Cooktown Local News – Thursday, March 6, 2014
AUSTRALIA Zoo has announced its support of a new State and Federal Government initiative to reduce the threat to marine turtle nests from pests to aid the recovery of Queensland’s iconic and endangered turtle populations and to protect our precious ecosystems. The Australian and Queensland Governments will jointly invest up to $7 million to the program over the next four years to help protect turtle eggs, hatchlings and habitat along the Queensland coast from feral pigs. The Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve, a 135,000 hectare conservation property and tribute to Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin, is located in the Cape York Peninsula, and rangers there have seen first-hand
the negative effects of feral pigs on the native turtle population. A key priority for the Governments will be the west coast of the Cape York Peninsula where turtle populations at most risk include the olive ridley turtle, listed as “Endangered” and the flatback turtle, currently listed as “Vulnerable”. Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital Veterinary Services Manager, Claude Lacasse has welcomed the move. “There are a large number of different wildlife species in Queensland who are under threat due to the effects of feral pigs, including habitat degradation and direct predation,” she said. “We commend the Australian
and Queensland Governments for being committed to work together to protect our critically endangered turtles, and Queensland’s unique and iconic marine environment.” The Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast has treated over 50,000 animals in its 10 year history, with more than 186 sea and freshwater turtles requiring care in the last 12 months. Australia Zoo also proudly supports a number of endangered turtle research projects. In addition to working with the Queensland Government to protect turtle nest sites from feral pigs, the Federal Government is providing $5 million for dugong and turtle protection through the Reef 2050 Plan and Reef Trust.
COMMUNITY
The
Eye f the
The Chinese procession down Charlotte Street in 1887. Photo submitted.
o Cyclone
History
An irreverent, satirical (and totally fictional) comment upon the issues of life, by our faceless correspondent.
They might be nasty, but are they master-minds? SOMETIMES I wonder why I keep a diary. It’s so old fashioned when everything is done by SMS, Tweet or email. I kid myself that some day in the future I will be sitting on the verandah, gin and tonic beside me, and reading about the times I have lived through. Hah! That might work if we had great men in stirring times, but instead I work in mean and smallminded times. The people telling me what to do only look great in their bedroom mirrors. I see their little minds working day by day, plotting and scheming to grab their share of the political pie at any cost to the community. This is why I really write my diary. Therapy. After a day in the salt mines, I need some sanity. Things are particularly bad at the moment, because the Oberführer is having a bad time himself. I think he is feeling lonely at the top. The crowds of admirers seem thinner now, and his underlings in parliament are starting to discover principles and opinions they kept hidden when the “Great Man” was riding high. We jump to attention when he bustles into the office every morning, but the click of his heels as he strides away down the corridor no longer rings
with confidence.
caption: blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah
He really does not understand why people do not completely support his war against the criminal master-minds in the bikie world. Perhaps it’s because our mental picture of a criminal master-mind includes well-tailored suits, understated but expensive cars with darkened windows and, above all, a discreet life in the shadows. Instead we are running around arresting people who have beards and big tummies, who tattoo blood-curdling slogans on their faces and roar around town on massive Harleys. They might be nasty, but are they masterminds? I doubt if they can even spell, and writing their own name might be a challenge for some. Still, the Oberführer keeps on abusing them and their lawyers. Perhaps he feels we all need someone to hate and, if we are busy hating bikies, perhaps we will not look too closely at the other things he is up to? I don’t think it is working. If his support at the last by-election was anything to go by, he may not last long. Bruce O’Krat Advisor to the Minister.
Chinese Commissioners visit Cooktown in 1887 Researched by M. SCULLY I THOUGHT I would revisit the story behind this photograph as there still seems to be some debate on the internet about the subject matter. The Cooktown Historical Society purchased a copy of this image from the Royal Geographical Society in London. The image is known to be part of an album of prints collected by Lord Brassey of England. He and his wife Annie called at Cooktown on board their private yacht Sunbeam on August 15, 1887. After a detailed examination of the print, John and Bev Shay (Cooktown & District Historical Society) and the late Kevin Wong Hoy (a Chinese scholar) separately interpreted it to be of a parade of Cooktown’s Chinese with Chinese dignitaries riding in the horse drawn carriage. If the photograph was taken in 1887, then, possibly it recorded the visit of the Chinese Commissioners to Cooktown, just prior to their return to China after having completed their investigations of the circumstances faced by the Chinese in Australia. Subsequently, had this photo been taken today in 2014, the premises the procession would pass as they
headed down Charlotte Street towards the Wharf would be: The Cooktown Café, the Endeavour Electrical building, the site of the previous Endeavour Butchery and the vacant block on the corner where the grand old Great Northern Hotel stood.
went down to receive General Wong Yung Ho and Consul U Tsing. There were over 300 Europeans and Chinese on the Wharf when the Commissioners landed. Buggies were in waiting and drove them to the quarters which had been specially prepared for them.
The Commissioners left Canton on August 1886. As well as the Australian colonies, they also visited Dutch and Spanish colonies in South-East Asia. Their official objective was to assess the social conditions of Chinese nationals living abroad and the expediency of establishing Chinese consulates in these colonies. Unofficially, they were interested in establishing authority over the overseas Chinese, taxing them for support of consular officials and making them contribute to the expenses of coastal defence.
During conversations with several residents, General Wong Young Ho spoke seemingly bitterly about his conversation with Sir S.W.Griffith, stating that the Premier was biased. The General regarded the poll tax of £30 as an unwarranted imposition. He promised to make a proposal to the Chinese Emperor that would bring about a more favourable treaty between China and Australia.
The visit to Cooktown was the last port of call before returning to China and The Queenslander newspaper gave a detailed report in its Cooktown column. The following is a condensed version of the same. It reported that the steamer Katoomba arrived in Cooktown at 6 o’clock on the morning of August 2. At 7 o’clock the principal Chinese residents, with a Chinese band,
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Later in the morning, being conveyed in three buggies, they visited the local hospital with Mayor Davis and alderman Henriques as well as several Chinese merchants, and chatted to some Chinese patients who assured them that they were being well-treated. The General, through Mr Chick War, donated £10 to the hospital. They were then driven to Four Mile Hill to admire the scenery. Later that evening, at the invitation of Mr Chick War, some 20 residents, including heads of government depart-
ments, Dr Korteum, the bank managers, principal merchants and newspaper men attended a champagne spread given in honour of the Commissioners. A long list of reciprocal toasts were given, the Chinese being translated by Mr Samuel Asheu. The Commissioners departed the next morning on the S.S. Changsa, which had been detained in Cooktown especially for them, while the steamer Victory was chartered to take the principal Chinese residents of Cooktown and also a few Europeans to see them off. The General stated that he was very pleased with his visit to Cooktown and many cheers were given for the General and the Consul. On their return to China, they recommended that Chinese Consulate Generals be established in the region and Vice-Consuls in North Queensland. The government of China was very conservative and from their perspective, Australia was considered to be too remote and underpopulated. Consequently, the proposal was set aside. The first Chinese consulate, located in Melbourne, was not established until 1909.
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UT&about
PHOTOS: GARY HUTCHISON
DINING OUT @ the Bowls Club
Returning to Cooktown after a 12-month absence is Matt Wallace and Kylie Goodall.
At the Bowls Club on Monday night for dinner were Cairns-based duo Nerida Copeland and Lance Watkin who are in town for work purposes.
In town on business were Paul Strike and Rhoda Winger.
Ray and Katrina Wright were there to help David Mead celebrate his birthday.
Also helping David Mead celebrate his birthday were Jo and Roger Townsend.
Centre of attention was birthday boy David Mead, seen here getting a 50th cuddle from wife Janet.
Only in town since January, Paul Prokupuk and Sarah Williams have found the Bowls Club a great place to eat.
10 – Cooktown Local News – Thursday, March 6, 2014
Celebrating her 15th birthday with family and frinds on Monday night was Jess Gilmore (centre front), seen here with Summar McGowan (left front), Dylan Gilmore (right front) and (in back from left) Mady McGowan and Ashleigh and Noah Jerome.
COMMUNITY
Pilger’s Utopia shows us Aboriginal Aust. in 2014 By MARCUS WATERS Lecturer at Griffith University in theconversation.com IT was more than two decades ago when I saw John Pilger’s 1986 documentary, The Secret Country, for the first time. I was a 17-year-old Aboriginal male suffering the indignity of public housing Australia. My identity came with a sense of collective oppression that turned my indignity into both resistance and motivation. Such feelings of resistance became an empowering experience that lead to a pursuit of justice identified through education. Now, almost 30 years later, I find myself part of the middle class. I own my house. My children have all attended private schools and it is easy to believe that things are improving. I have John Pilger and his latest documentary Utopia, which has premiered in Australia last month, to remind me that it hasn’t. BACK TO UTOPIA Pilger first visited the Aboriginal community of Utopia in Central Australia 28 years ago during the making of The Secret Country. He returned in 2013 to film Utopia to find things hadn’t improved. Families live in thirdworld conditions, in poorly sanitised shacks where they are plagued by easily curable diseases. Extended families of 16 to 20 people living in the one house - identified by government officials as an asbestos hazard. This is Aboriginal Australia now: the most abject poverty you can imagine in one of the wealthiest countries in the world. The film documents failed health policies and a number of very suspicious Aboriginal deaths in police custody. Pilger interviews several government officials to find out what went wrong - none of whom is willing to take responsibility. The biggest difference between Pilger’s two films is that The Secret Country was about Australia’s dark untold past whereas Utopia is about the present. The here-and-now is revealed to be inhuman, disgraceful and embarrassing. It’s a point made in one of the interviews in the film with the Secretary General of Amnesty International. Salil Shetty asks why one of the richest countries in the world can’t solve the problem of Indigenous poverty? If it’s not about resources, the problem must lie “somewhere else”. SOMEWHERE ELSE It’s that “somewhere else” that sparked my interest in this film. The film highlights that tra-
Australian broadcaster and journalist John Pilger. choma, a bacterial infection of the eye, among our mob is among the highest in the world. Our people are still being imprisoned at 10 times the rate of black people in South Africa under apartheid. Suicide rates within our communities are getting worse. Hard to believe when we all love Cathy Freeman, Jonathan Thurston and Jessica Mauboy as much as we do. That’s what Pilger does, and he’s been doing it for a long time. His films remind us who we really are - and not everyone likes it. The truth is that many of our communities are on mineral-rich lands that cause mouths to water in corporate and government boardrooms. I wish it was something more insidious, deeper or meaningful - but that’s it … power and greed. FALSE, CRUEL CLAIMS The shocking conditions documented in Utopia are contrasted with the false claims made by the media and government about paedophile rings, petrol warlords and sex slaves in Aboriginal settlements. Utopia looks at the story of a senior government Indigenous advisory official who told the ABC’s Lateline in 2006 that he was a youth worker in Indigenous communities in Central Australia and gave evidence about petrol warlords, paedophile rings and sex slavery. The interview was big news and paved the way for the 2007 Intervention. After the interview was broadcast it was revealed that the man interviewed was Gregory
Andrews, a branch manager for the then minister for Indigenous affairs Mal Brough’s Office of Indigenous Policy and Coordination. Writing as an Aboriginal person who grew up in this country I have often heard that the poverty and despair I found myself in was all our own doing - therefore such accusations are nothing new. Still, the accusations of paedophile rings has really hurt. I say that as a father who loves his gaaynggal (children) very much. The 2007 Northern Territory Intervention was initiated by the Howard government on the pretext that paedophile gangs were operating in Indigenous settlements. Troops were sent in; townships were compulsorily acquired and native title legislation ignored. Yet no prosecution for child abuse resulted, and studies concluded that there was no evidence of any systematic child abuse. APART FROM THE CROWD Pilger than takes us to Rottnest Island, used as recently as 1931 as a concentration camp for Aboriginal people. Filming occurs in a former prison cell where 51 people were held before their execution. The cell has now been converted into a suite within a luxury hotel and spa complex. There are hundreds of Aboriginal graves of people killed on the island. Could you imagine a holiday resort being built over the remains of the Auschwitz Nazi concentration camp? Mining companies have drawn big profits from the Northern Territory’s substantial oil and gas reserves over the past decade. They’ve been criticised for not sharing their wealth with Indigenous people. The ongoing implementation of the Northern Territory Intervention ensures communities such as Utopia will never see the benefits of this boom. What can I say - other than welcome to the travesty of Aboriginal Australia in the 21st Century.
A faith-filled outlook From the Pulpit IF anyone had reason to be discouraged, Joseph did. His mother died when he was a boy. His brothers hated him, sold him into slavery and convinced his father that he was dead. Joseph worked hard in Potiphar’s household, but ended up in prison because of false allegations. Yet he was not an angry person. The Hebrew slave maintained his faithfilled outlook because he consistently relied
Whatever his circumstances were, Joseph refused to focus on himself. When two royal servants were jailed, he had compassion for them and gave them aid. In times of both blessing and crisis, we are to help others in any way we can (2 Cor. 1:3-4). And notice, too, how Joseph didn’t shrink back from speak-
ing boldly about God to these men and to Pharaoh. He told the Egyptian leader that the answer he sought regarding his dreams would come from the Lord (Gen. 41:16). Whether enslaved, imprisoned or serving as Pharaoh’s second-incommand, Joseph flourished. He endured much hardship, but saw that the Lord had used it for good (Gen. 50:19-20). Because the Holy Spirit’s presence is within us, we - like Joseph - can have a faith-filled perspective that glorifies God, no matter what the circumstances of our life might be. God bless ya heaps! Have an awesome week. Pastor Wayne Brennan Cooktown Community Church.
Welcome to poet laureate Writers’ Corner
flavoured with burnt dirt but the smallest shop in the smallest town in Oz can make a first rate latte! I love your ubiquitous bakeries, your hot-cross buns! Need I go on?
Language This week, our special author is David Mason, a U.S. writer, professor and poet laureate of Colorado. David’s advice is, “There’s a lot to admire about Australia. Value what you have and don’t give it away!” Here are some of David’s thoughts.
Food Yes, we have great food in America too, especially in the big cities But your bread is less sweet, your lamb is cheaper and your supermarket vegetables and fruits are fresher than ours. Too often, in my country, an apple is a ball of pulp as big as your face.
A supplied image of 73-year-old Lenny Jones at the Utopia Health Clinic, 280km out of Alice Springs on Saturday, Oct. 8, 2011. Lenny who lives in Soapy Bore, Utopia pays $150 rent and he doesn’t have a toilet or shower in his house. Photo theconversation.com
upon God, who was always with him. Even in prison, Joseph was given responsibility over others (vv. 21-22). Like that righteous young man, we might also be “held captive” - by unemployment, ill health or a difficult relationship. In those hard places, we can nevertheless experience our Father’s presence and thrive: His Holy Spirit will produce godly fruit in us when we depend upon Him (Gal. 5:22-23).
The dainty Pink Lady apples of Oz are the juiciest I’ve had. And don’t get me started on coffee! In American small towns it tastes like water
The rhyming slang and Aboriginal place names are like magic spells. Words that seem vaguely English also resemble an argot from another planet.
But I love the fact that in Oz everyone owns the shore and, in many places, you can pull up a campervan and stare at the sea for weeks. I love the “primitive” and independent campgrounds, the life out of doors. (The few idiots who leave their stubbies and rubbish behind in these pristine places ought to be transported in chains!)
I love the way institutional names get turned into diminutives – Vinnies and Salvos – and absolutely nothing’s sacred.
Treasure
Everything’s an opportunity for word games and everyone has a nickname.
Don’t throw it away or fecklessly sell.
Lingo makes the world go round!
By David Mason
Recognise your treasure and guard it well.
Its wealth some day you may need. Who can tell?
It’s the spontaneous wit of the people that tickles me most!
Treasure your treasure and cherish it well!
(Late one night at a barbie my new mate, Suds, remarked, “Nothing’s been the same since 24/7.” Amen!)
Email your original scribblings for our column to either: thekellers@bigpond.com or editor@cooktownlocalnews.com.au or post them to: - P O Box 645, Cooktown, 4895.
Free Camping We used to have this too and I guess it’s still free when you backpack miles away from the roads.
By Dianne Keller.
Dianne Keller Cooktown Writers’ Group.
Cooktown Local News – Thursday, March 6, 2014 – 11
FRIDAY 07
6:00 ABC News Breakfast 9:30 ABC News Mornings 10:00 Children’s Programs 12:00 Midday Report 12:30 Talking Heads 1:00 Janet King 2:00 At The Movies 2:30 As Time Goes By 3:00 Bed Of Roses 4:00 New Tricks 5:00 Eggheads 5:30 ABC News 6:00 Grand Designs 6:50 What’s Your Story? 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 8:00 TBA 8:30 The Doctor Blake Mysteries - Dr Blake becomes involved in the grisly murder of a cinema projectionist and Jean becomes involved with Richard Taylor. How will Blake feel about a beau for Jean? 9:30 Line Of Duty - Having been duped into covering for Jackie’s crime, Gates tries to sever ties with her. 10:30 Lateline 11:05 Shaun Micallef’s MAD AS HELL 11:35 Rage 5:30 Paralympic Highlights
6:00 Today 9:00 Danoz Direct 10:00 Brand Developers 11:00 National Morning News 12:00 The Ellen Degeneres Show 1:00 Movie: “The Client List” (M a,s,d) 3:00 National News Now 4:15 National Afternoon News 5:30 Hot Seat 6:00 National News 7:00 Football: Canterbury Bulldogs Vs Brisbane Broncos 9:00 CSI: Miami: About Face 10:00 TBA 12:25 Movie: “Cobra” (AV v,l) - A street-tough detective’s nononsense approach to law enforcement is tested when he single-handedly tackles a marauding band of psycho-bikers who strike randomly. 2:00 Movie: “Convoy” (M v,l,d) - Starring Kris Kristofferson as “Rubber Duck”, a defiant truck driver who speeds through three states while a corrupt cop pursues him. A mile-long convoy of protesting truckers joins him along the way. 4:00 Brand Developers 4:30 Good Morning America
6:00 Sunrise 9:00 The Morning Show 11:30 Seven Morning News 12:00 World’s Strictest Parents 1:00 Seven’s V8 Supercars 2014 4:00 Seven News At 4 5:00 Deal Or No Deal 5:30 Million Dollar Minute 6:00 Seven News 6:30 Today Tonight 7:00 Better Homes And Gardens 8:30 TBA 10:45 TBA 11:45 That 70’s Show 12:15 Hung: I, Sandee - Tanya finds out Charlie has skipped bail, and asks Missy to help track him down. Lenore declares war on Tanya and the Wellness Centre, and Ray worries about his ability to please women - especially Jessica. 12:45 Movie: “Remember Me” (M v,s) - Jenny gets the fright of her life when her ex-husband begins contacting her after being in a psychiatric ward for nine years. 3:00 Home Shopping 4:00 Dr Oz
5:00 World News 9:30 UCI Track World Championships 2014 1:00 The Hungry Tide 2:00 Aral: The Lost Sea 2:30 NITV News Week In Review 3:00 France 24 International News 3:30 Al Jazeera News 4:00 The Journal 4:30 PBS Newshour 5:30 Global Village 6:00 The Lakes With Rory McGrath 6:30 World News Australia 7:30 Coast: Peril From The Seas 8:35 The Real White Queen And Her Rivals 9:35 As It Happened 10:30 World News Australia Late 11:00 The Feed 11:30 Movie: “Her Whole Life Ahead Of Her” (M s,l,d,v,n) - In Italian. A philosophy graduate-turned-telemarketer’s life is turned upside down when she meets an impassioned labour union worker and divulges her company’s unfair practices to him. 1:35 Movie: “Kurt Wallender: The Revenge” (M v) 3:15 Weatherwatch Overnight
SATURDAY 08
6:00 Rage 10:30 Rage 11:30 Australian Story 12:00 Secrets Of The Superbrands: Food 12:55 Movie: The Adventures Of Baron Munchausen 3:00 Movie: “The Glenn Miller Story” (G) 5:00 Walk On The Wild Side 5:30 Devil Island: Manny Goes Missing 6:00 Paralympic Highlights 6:30 Hello Birdy: Pests 7:00 ABC News 7:30 Doc Martin 8:20 Midsomer Murders - New detective Charlie Nelson arrives in Midsomer and is thrown straight into a murder investigation. A man is stabbed with an antique sword during a ghosthunting party at a ‘haunted’ manor house. 9:50 Silent Witness: The Prodigal (Part Two) - As Sabiston works through the post-mortems, Harry notices evidence of extensive plastic surgery on the body of the dead bodyguard and starts to suspect dirty tricks. 10:50 Adam Hills: The Last Leg 11:20 Rage Guest Programmer 5:00 Rage 5:30 Paralympic Highlights
6:00 Children’s Programs 7:00 Weekend Today - Saturday 10:00 Danoz Direct 11:00 Who Do You Think You Are? 12:00 The Block: Fans Vs Faves 4:30 Alive And Cooking 5:00 Your 4x4 5:30 Getaway 6:00 National News Saturday 7:00 The Block: Fans Vs Faves - Join Shelley Craft and see all the funniest behind the scenes from another week of renovating. See how the kitchens are progressing and get the inside scoop from judges Neale, Shaynna and Darren. 7:40 TBA 11:50 Movie: “Whiteout” (AV v,l,n) - As the sun sets in Antarctica, throwing the Continent into total darkness for 6 months, U.S. Marshall Carrie Stetko must track down a serial killer before he is able to use this darkness to escape forever. 1:50 Movie: “Nuts” (M a,v,l) - A high-class call girl accused of murder fights for the right to stand trial rather than be declared mentally incompetent. 4:00 Brand Developes 5:00 Skippy - The Bush Kangaroo / 5:30 Wesley Impact
6:00 Saturday Disney 7:00 Weekend Sunrise 10:00 The Morning Show - Weekend 12:00 TBA 2:30 V8 Xtra 3:00 Seven’s V8 Supercare 2014 6:00 Seven News 6:30 Seven’s V8 Supercare 2014 7:30 TBA 1:40 Hung: A Monkey Named Simian - Tanya finds out she’s not invited to Frances and Mike’s wedding. After breaking Jason’s nose, Ray steals back his clients. Meanwhile, Tanya bonds with Charlie’s sons who’ve been left in her care. 2:10 Special: Nature’s Gentleman - A look at the life of David Fleay, a naturalist who has dedicated his life to the preservation of and research into Australia’s wildlife. 3:00 Harry’s Practice 3:30 It’s Written Oceania 4:00 Home Shopping 5:00 Dr Oz: The Most Underperformed Surgery You Should Be Getting - Get answers to your health questions from Dr Oz and other leading doctors, hospitals, associations and authors.
5:00 World News 9:30 UCI Track World Championships 2014 1:30 The Russian Enigma 2:30 Gregory Crewdson 3:55 A Season At The Juillard School New York 4:30 PBS Newshour 5:30 A History Of Ancient Britain 6:30 World News Australia 7:30 Queen Of Tigers 8:30 Living With The Amish 9:30 Movie: “Drive” (MA v) - A Hollywood stunt driver by day moonlights as a top-notch getaway driver-for-hire in the criminal underworld. He finds himself a target for some of LA’s most dangerous men after agreeing to aid the husband of his beautiful neighbour, Irene. When the job goes dangerously awry, the only way he can keep Irene and her son alive is to do what he does best - drive. 11:20 Movie: “Katyn” (MAV v,a) - In Polish, Russian and German. 1:30 Boob Tube: Sex, TV and Ugly George - Explores censorship and public decency on television using the example of the infamous 1970s ‘filmmaker’, Ugly George. 2:45 Weatherwatch Overnight
SUNDAY 09
6:00 Rage 7:30 Asia Pacific Focus 8:00 Weekend Breakfast 9:00 Insiders 10:00 Offsiders 10:30 Doc Martin 11:30 Songs Of Praise: Taking Stock 12:00 Landline 1:00 Gardening Australia 1:30 Compass: Whatever Happened To The Charismatics? 2:00 Father Brown: The Bride Of Christ 3:00 Basketball: WNBL Grand Final 5:30 Australian Story: Taking Flight 6:00 Paralympics Highlights 6:30 Compass: Joanna Lumley The Search For Noah’s Ark: Part 1 7:00 ABC News 7:30 Richard Hammond Builds A Planet 8:30 Rake 9:30 TBA 10:15 Wallander: Sidetracked 11:45 Movie: “Madigan” (M s,v) - Dan Madigan is a New York detective with questionable ethics who runs into trouble with his moralistic commissioner. 1:25 Movie: “A Place In The Sun” (PG) 3:25 Richard Hammond Builds A Planet 4:25 Order In The House 5:00 Paralympics Highlights
6:00 Children’s Programs 7:00 Weekend Today 10:00 Financial Review Sunday 10:30 Wide World Of Sports 11:30 Sunday Footy Show 1:30 Broncos Insider 2:00 2014 Intrust Supercup 4:00 Football: St George Issawarra Dragons Vs Easts Tigers 6:00 National News Sunday 6:30 The Block: Fans Vs Faves 7:40 60 Minutes 8:40 Fat Tony & Co 9:40 Person Of Interest 10:40 Love Child: Joan risks her career to help Annie get her baby back, unaware of the implications for Dr McNaughton. Patricia’s mother visits from Melbourne and offers her daughter an early exit from Stanton House. 11:30 Financial Review Sunday 1:00 What Would You Do? 2:00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo 2:30 Brand Developers 4:00 Good Morning America - Sunday 5:00 National Early Morning News / 5:30 Today
6:00 Children’s Programs 7:00 Weekend Sunrise 10:00 The Morning Show Weekend 11:00 Dr Oz 12:00 Seven’s V8 Supercars 5:00 TBA 5:30 The Great South East 6:00 Seven News 6:30 TBA 1:00 Hannibal: Potage - Determined to give Abigail closure, Will and Hannibal travel with Abigail back home to the scene of her father’s crimes. But things go from bad to worse when a copycat killer murders Abigail’s friend. 2:00 Home Shopping 3:00 NBC Today - International news and weather including interviews with newsmakers in the world of politics, business, media, entertainment and sport. 4:00 NBC Meet The Press 5:00 Sunrise Extra 5:30 Seven Early News - Natalie Barr and Mark Beretta present the latest news, sport and weather from around Australia and overseas.
MONDAY 10
SBS
6:00 ABC News Breakfast 9:30 ABC News Mornings 10:00 Children’s Programs 11:00 Big Ideas 12:00 Midday Report 1:00 Landline 2:00 Poh’s Kitchen 2:30 As Time Goes By 3:00 Bed Of Roses 4:00 New Tricks 5:00 Eggheads 5:30 ABC News: Early Edition 6:00 Paralympics Highlights 6:30 Who’s Been Sleeping In My House? 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 8:00 Australian Story 8:30 Four Corners 9:20 Media Watch 9:35 Q&A 10:30 Lateline 11:05 The Business 11:35 Dalziel And Pascoe: Dust Thou Art 1:15 Movie: “Pandora And The Flying Dutchman” (PG) 3:20 Movie: “The Mark Of Zorro” (PG) 4:55 Talking Heads 5:20 Catalyst Bytes / 5:30 Paralympics Highlights
6:00 Today 9:00 Danoz Direct 9:30 Brand Developers 11:00 National Morning News 12:00 The Ellen Degeneres Show 1:00 Movie: “My Blue Heaven” (PG v,l) 3:00 National News Now 4:15 National Afternoon News 5:30 Hot Seat 6:00 National News 7:00 A Current Affair 7:30 The Block: Fans Vs Faves 8:40 Love Child 9:40 TBA 11:40 Partners: Two Nines And A Pair Of Queens 12:05 Oh Sit! A high-stakes, musical chairs competition, in which 12 thrill-seekers race head-to-head through five physically demanding obstacle course-style eliminations as they each compete to claim a chair - all to the sounds of a live band. 1:00 Extra 1:30 Skippy - The Bush Kangaroo 2:00 Brand Developers 3:30 Good Morning America 5:00 National Early Morning News 5:30 Today
6:00 Sunrise 9:00 The Morning Show 11:30 Seven Morning News 12:00 Movie: “The Advocate’s Devil” (M a,s,v) 2:00 The Daily Edition 3:00 The Chase 4:00 Seven News At 4 5:00 Deal Or No Deal 5:30 Million Dollar Minute 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Home And Away 7:30 TBA 8:45 Revenge: Dissolution 9:45 Chicago Fire: Ambition / Retaliation 11:45 Parks and Recreation: Halloween Surprise 12:10 Dr Oz 1:00 Home Shopping 3:30 Sons And Daughters - Karen is desperate for money, and puts her plan into action to get Amanda to give up Todd’s inheritance. 4:00 NBC Today 5:00 Sunrise Extra / 5:30 Seven Early News
5:00 World News 6:30 UCI Track World Championships 2014 11:00 World News 1:00 Titanic: The Mission - Safety 1:55 Milos: Heartstrings 2:55 Life Is Beautiful 3:00 France 24 International News 3:30 Al Jazeera News 4:00 The Journal 4:30 FIFA Futbol Mundial 5:00 The Farm Fixer 5:30 Global Village 6:00 Luke Nguyen’s Vietnam 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Strip The City 8:35 Stephen Hawking’s Future Universe 9:30 Housos 10:00 Bendidorm Bastards 10:25 SBS World News Late 11:00 The World Game 11:30 Clown: The Season - Looking to break a slow spell, Casper and Frank decides to try skydiving. Lasse Spang Olsen, who is hired as instructor, reveals a tendency to go shirtless, which seriously unnerves Frank. 12:00 Shorts On Screen 12:35 Derren Brown: Messiah 1:35 William Shatner’s Weird Or What? 2:35 Weatherwatch Overnight
TUESDAY 11
7 CENTRAL
6:00 ABC News Breakfast 9:30 ABC News Mornings 10:00 Children’s Programs 11:00 Four Corners 11:45 Media Watch 12:00 Midday Report 1:00 Q&A 2:00 Poh’s Kitchen 3:00 Bed Of Roses 4:00 New Tricks 5:00 Eggheads 5:30 ABC News: Early Edition 6:00 Paralympics Highlights 6:30 Who’s Been Sleeping In My House? 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 8:00 Family Confidential 8:30 New Tricks: The Fourth Man 9:30 At The Movies 10:00 Hannah Gadsby’s OZ 10:30 Lateline 11:05 The Business 11:30 Four Corners 12:20 Media Watch 12:35 Movie: “The Collector” (M a,v) 2:30 Talking Heads 3:00 Basketball: WNBL: Grand Final 5:30 Paralympics Highlights
6:00 Today 9:00 Danoz Direct 10:00 Brand Developers 11:00 National Morning News 12:00 The Ellen Degeneres Show 1:00 Movie: “Mr Woodcock” (M l,s) 3:00 National News Now 4:15 National Afternoon News 5:30 Hot Seat 6:00 National News 7:00 A Current Affair 7:30 The Block: Fans Vs Faves 8:40 The Big Bang Theory: The Hesitation Ramification 9:10 The Big Bang Theory: The Date Night Variable 9:40 2 Broke Girls: And The ATM 10:10 2 Broke Girls: And The ‘it’ Hole 10:40 Two And A Half Men: Three Fingers of Crème de Menthe 11:10 Two And A Half Men: Those Fancy Japanese Toilets 11:40 Weeds: System Overhead 12:10 20/20 1:00 Extra 1:30 Brand Developers 3:30 Good Morning America 5:00 National Early Morning News / 5:30 Today
6:00 Sunrise 9:00 The Morning Show 11:30 Seven Morning News 12:00 Movie: “Past Midnight” (M v,l,s) 2:00 The Daily Edition 3:00 The Chase 4:00 Seven News At 4 5:00 Deal Or No Deal 5:30 Million Dollar Minute 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Home And Away 7:30 TBA 8:45 Winners And Losers: Fallout 9:45 Parenthood: Speaking Of Baggage / The Ring - The story of the Bravermans - Sarah, Adam, Crosby, and Julia - four grown siblings sharing the endless struggles of being good parents. 11:45 TBA 1:00 Home Shopping 4:00 NBC Today 5:00 Sunrise Extra 5:30 Seven Early News
5:00 World News 1:00 Person Of Interest 2:00 The Long March To Freedom 2:55 Life Is Beautiful 3:00 France 24 International News 3:30 Al Jazeera News 4:00 The Journal 4:30 PBS Newshour 5:30 Global Village 6:00 Food Safari 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Queen Victoria’s Children 8:30 Insight 9:30 Dateline 10:30 SBS World News Late 11:00 The Bridge: In Danish and Swedish. Gradually all the pieces to the complicated puzzle are put in place - the clues and evidence in the investigation have led the police to a man who could be the murderer. Now they wait tensely for his next move, which for Martin, who has finally managed to become reconciled with his son August, will turn out to be more personal than he ever could have imagined. 12:10 Surviving Terror 1:10 Destination Australia 2:10 Weatherwatch Overnight
WEDNESDAY 12
IMPARJA
6:00 ABC News Breakfast 9:30 ABC News Mornings 10:00 Children’s Programs 11:00 One Plus One 11:30 Family Confidential 12:00 Midday Report 12:30 National Press Club Address 1:30 Hello Birdy 2:00 Poh’s Kitchen 2:30 As Time Goes By 3:00 Bed Of Roses 4:00 New Tricks 5:00 Eggheads 5:30 ABC News: Early Edition 6:00 Paralympics Highlights 6:30 Who’s Been Sleeping In My House? 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 8:00 Shaun Micallef’s MAD AS HELL 8:30 Spicks And Specks 9:00 The Moodys: Vote 1 Terry Moody 9:30 Adam Hills: The Last Leg 10:00 The Wrong Mans 10:30 Lateline 11:05 The Business 11:35 The Straits: Fatherhood 12:30 Movie: “Rosemary’s Baby” (M h,v) 2:40 Movie: “Let No Man Write My Epitaph” (G) 4:25 New Tricks / 5:30 Paralympics Highlights
6:00 Today 9:00 Danoz Direct 10:00 Brand Developers 11:00 National Morning News 12:00 The Ellen Degeneres Show 1:00 Movie: “The Time Machine” (M v,s) 3:00 National News Now 4:15 National Afternoon News 5:30 Hot Seat 6:00 National News 7:00 A Current Affair 7:30 The Block: Fans Vs Faves 8:40 Inside Story 9:40 CSI: Keep Calm And Carry-On 10:40 CSI: NY: White Gold (M v) 11:35 Dallas: Legacies - In the electrifying finale, the Ewings unite to execute J.R.’s master plan and the shocking answer to the question “Who killed J.R.?” is finally revealed. 12:30 Extra 1:00 Skippy - The Bush Kangaroo 1:30 Brand Developers 3:30 Good Morning America 5:00 National Early Morning News / 5:30 Today
6:00 Sunrise 10:00 The Morning Show 11:30 Seven Morning News 12:00 Movie: “Mother, May I Sleep With Danger?” (M v,s,a) 2:00 The Daily Edition 3:00 The Chase 4:00 Seven News At 4 5:00 Deal Or No Deal 5:30 Million Dollar Minute 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Home And Away 7:30 TBA 8:45 The Blacklist: The world’s most wanted criminal mysteriously turns himself in and offers to help them hunt down the very men he’s spent his entire life protecting. 9:45 Marvel’s Agents Of S.H.I.E.L.D: T.R.A.C.K.S 10:45 Defiance 11:40 Olivia Lee: Dirty, Sexy, Funny 12:05 Dr Oz 1:00 Home Shopping 3:30 Sons And Daughters 4:00 NBC Today 5:00 Sunrise Extra / 5:30 Seven Early News
5:00 Korean News 1:00 Insight 2:00 Dateline 3:00 France 24 International News 3:30 Al Jazeera News 4:00 The Journal 4:30 PBS Newshour 5:30 Global Village 6:00 My Family Feast 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Indian Ocean With Simon Reeve 8:35 One Born Every Minute 9:30 Lilyhammer 10:25 SBS World News Late 11:00 Movie: “The Curse Of The Golden Flower” (M v,a) - In Mandarin, Cantonese and Japanese. From celebrated director Zhang Yimou, and featuring superstars Chow Yun-fat and Gong Li, this is an epic tale of lust and power set in the opulent and violent world of the Tang Dynasty. The story follows the Emperor, his Empress and the tragic disintegration of their imperial family. 1:00 Movie: “Teddy Bear” (M s,l) - In Czech. Jirka, Roman and Ivan have been friends since school. Now in their midthirties and with very different lives, their friendship has still lasted. 2:55 Weatherwatch Overnight
THURSDAY 13
ABC
6:00 ABC News Breakfast 9:30 ABC News Mornings 10:00 Children’s Programs 12:00 Midday Report 1:00 Shaun Micallef’s MAD AS HELL 1:30 The Checkout 2:00 Poh’s Kitchen 2:30 As Time Goes By 3:00 Bed Of Roses 4:00 New Tricks 5:00 Eggheads 5:30 ABC News: Early Edition 6:00 Paralympics Highlights 6:30 Who’s Been Sleeping In My House? 6:55 Clarke And Dawe 7:00 ABC News 7:30 7.30 8:00 The Checkout 8:30 Janet King: Natural Justice 9:30 The School 10:20 Lateline 10:55 The Business 11:25 Rome Wasn’t Built In A Day 12:10 Movie: “A Day In The Death Of Joe Egg” (M a,s) 1:55 Movie: “The Locket” (PG) 3:25 The School 4:25 New Tricks / 5:30 Paralympics Higlights
6:00 Today 9:00 Danoz Direct 9:30 Brand Developers 11:00 National Morning News 12:00 The Ellen Degeneres Show 1:00 Movie: “Irresistable” (M l,s,a,v) - Sophie is convinced that her husband’s beautiful co-worker, Mara, is stalking her. 3:00 National News Now 4:15 National Afternoon News 5:30 Hot Seat 6:00 National News 7:00 A Current Affair 7:30 The Block: Fans Vs Faves 9:40 The NRL Footy Show - Join Fatty Vautin, Michael Slater, Erin Molan, Beau Ryan and Darryl Brohman, along with the game’s biggest names for all the fun and all things footy in the show’s 21st year 10:40 Fat Tony & Co 11:40 The AFL Footy Show 1:30 Extra 2:00 Brand Developers 3:30 Good Morning America 5:00 National Early Morning News / 5:30 Today
6:00 Sunrise 10:00 The Morning Show 11:30 Seven Morning News 12:00 Movie: “Doomsday Man” (M v,a) 2:00 The Daily Edition 3:00 The Chase 4:00 Seven News At 4 5:00 Deal Or No Deal 5:30 Million Dollar Minute 6:00 Seven News 7:00 Home And Away 8:00 Tricked 9:00 Young, Lazy and Driving Us Crazy - With another housemate gone, the tension reaches boiling point and becomes too much for one of them. For others, there is a change on the horizon as they take to their new work placement which sees them flipping burgers. 10:00 Botched Up Bodies 11:00 TBA 12:00 Dr Oz 1:00 Home Shopping 4:00 NBC Today / 5:00 Sunrise Extra / 5:30 Seven Early News
5:00 Korean News 5:30 Football International: Germany Vs Chile 8:00 Weatherwatch 8:05 World News 1:00 One Born Every Minute 2:55 Luke Lguyen’s Greater Mekong Bitesize 3:00 France 24 International News 3:30 Al Jazeera News 4:00 The Journal 4:30 PBS Newshour 5:30 Global Village 6:00 Island Feast With Peter Kuruvita 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Mexican Fiesta With Peter Kuruvita 8:00 Gormet Farmer 8:30 Sicily Unpacked 9:35 Rectify: Drip, Drip (M v,a) - Daniel loses his grip on reality as he wrestles with life after Death Row. Unable to sleep, he spies on the house of the girl he allegedly murdered – the first in a long night of surreal and troubling events. 10:25 SBS World News Late 11:30 Thursday FC 12:00 Do You See What I See? 1:00 The Man Who Saved The World 2:00 Weatherwatch Overnight
12 – Cooktown Local News – Thursday, March 6, 2014
5:00 World News 9:30 UCI Track World Championships 2014 1:30 Play 2:30 Speedweek 4:00 2014 Superbike World Championship 4:30 UEFA Champions League Magazine 5:00 Wainwright Walks 5:30 Who Do You Think You Are? 6:30 SBS World News 7:30 Lost Worlds 8:30 Stephen Hawking: A Brief History Of Mine 10:15 Hawking 11:55 Movie: “The Anarchist’s Wife” (M l,s,v) In Spanish and French, English Subtitles. A moving drama about the undying love and suffering of a couple affected by the Spanish Civil War over several decades. Manuela is left behind when her husband Justo fights for his ideals against Franco’s Nationalists during the Spanish Civil War. When he disappears for many years, Manuela never gives up hope of seeing him again. 2:10 Weatherwatch Overnight
CROSSWORD No. 188
SUDOKU No. 188
Your Lucky
Stars
PISCES (February 20th - March 20th) An idea which you have will save you a great deal of time and energy. It may be a while before you see all the advantages, however. Romance. Your patience with your partner will save you both from a lot of arguments. Eventually they may change their ways.
ARIES (March 21st - April 20th) Things at work are getting out of hand. You need to pull in the reigns and get things back on track. Do it soon before it’s too late! Romance. This would be an excellent time to give your partner a surprise. They will need a lot of emotional support from you and their friends.
TAURUS (April 21st - May 21st) Don’t be discouraged when a friend consistently turns down your offers to meet. They are simply busy. Try again next week. Romance. You may be a little embarrassed to bring up a delicate topic with your partner. This will be a good time to break the ice, however.
FOR KIDS
GEMINI (May 22nd - June 21st) A new friend will want to see you sooner than you think. Try not to be put off by their apparent keenness! They are just excited about the possibilities! Romance. A friend will help you decide if you’re making the right decision. However, you are the one who’s ultimately responsible.
CANCER (June 22nd - July 23rd)
Try to find time to do something just for your own enjoyment. You have been spending enough time helping other people recently. Romance. A show of affection will change the way you feel about a friend who has been close to you in the past. This could be a good thing!
LEO (July 24th - August 23rd) Your work will be much more enjoyable than usual this week. It may seem there is a celebration occurring every day. Take part where you can! Romance. Your relationship could get a bit worrisome. It’s very important to get to the bottom of any problems, so that they don’t recur.
FINDWORD No. 188
VIRGO (August 24th - September 23rd)
A LAUGH WITH LOTSA
Your boss may be slightly unpredictable this week. Don’t allow this to get in the way of your work. Keep your head down and get your work done on time! Romance. A dream may have had an element of truth. Being honest with yourself will pay off a lot more than you think!
LIBRA (September 24th - October 23rd) A feeling of insecurity will have no basis in reality, despite what a friend may say. Listening to them may be the best thing you’ve done in some time! Romance. Your partner will have to give you a lot of extra room. If they don’t, you may feel that you are being smothered!
For all your printing needs – www.lotsa.com.au
MUDDY RIVER
SCORPIO (October 24th - November 22nd) Details of your private life may be more public than you would like. Don’t get too worried about this. It may prove to be interesting banter amongst friends. Romance. Your dreaminess may affect your partner. They might like to have a better idea about how you are feeling.
SAGITTARIUS (November 23rd - December 21st) A friend who has recently let you down may soon do so again. Try not to put too much pressure on them and avoid the possibility. Romance. A romantic evening will go well. You will be in a very positive mood and will be more than willing to forget about a recent disagreement.
CAPRICORN (December 22nd - January 20th)
QUOTE OF THE DAY
“
“
Once you choose hope, anything is possible.
–Christopher Reeve
SOLUTIONS No. 188
Make sure that you deal with an issue that has come up at work. You must be clear in your own mind about what you want. Romance. Frustration may set in if you don’t get what you want. You will be unwilling to compromise, even on the details. This may be a bit extreme.
AQUARIUS (January 21st - February 19th) You will need some extra encouragement and support from your family this week. It may be devastating if you don’t receive it, however. Romance. Don’t worry too much if everything does not go completely as planned. If you relax, this will be a good day for romance.
Cooktown Local News – Thursday, March 6, 2014 – 13
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PLUMBING • Bobcat hire and attachments • Excavator hire and attachments • Telehandler and attachments
Cameron Orchard ph/fax 4069 5309 mob 0407 695 309
EARTHMOVING & CONCRETE
0417 002 143
• Concrete – Earthmoving & Civil Works – Building Pads – Subdivisions – Driveways – Trenches – Post Holes – Clearing – Drainage – Demolition • Plumbing & Pool Preparation – Raw Materials & Cartage – Rock & Tree Removal • Small & Large Excavators & Attachments – Bobcats – Tip Trucks – Water Carts – Rollers – Tag & Dog Trailers Local multi-skilled operators providing you a competant, reliable & hassle-free service in Earthmoving & Civil Works
ROOFING
Nadine & Steve Scholz • PO Box 964 Cooktown Q 4895 admin@cooktowncivilgroup.com cooktowncivilgroup
Advertise your business in the Trades and Services Section Call 1300 4895 00 or email ads@cooktownlocalnews.com.au to book your advertisement.
14 – Cooktown Local News – Thursday, March 6, 2014
Advertise your business Call 1300 4895 00 or 4098 2281
FOR RENT FOR RENT - New Renovation 3 BR half Duplex. $290 P/W. Central Location close to Hospital A/C in Bedrooms. Responsible Tenants need only apply. PH Mob 0438 106 108.
PETS FOR SALE 11 X B l u e A m er i c a n Staffy’s. $1200 each. 0488 034 643.
TRADES
TOWING - TYRES - MECHANICAL OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK
GENERAL TOWING – Special local & Cooktown to Cairns rates TYRES – Cars, Utes, 4x4’s and Trucks – most sizes MECHANICAL REPAIRS & SERVICING – All makes & models, 2WD & 4WD
Cooktown Towing, Tyres & Mechanical Ferrari Street (behind Mobil S/S) Cooktown
Phone: 4069 5545 • Mobile: 0408 772 361
TREELOPPING
C O O K T O WN S k i p B i n s . Commercial and domestic rubbish removal and disposal. Ph 4069 5545 or 0408 772 361.
MOTELS AAA CBD CBD CBD – Inn Cairns Boutique Apartments, 71 Lake Street, Cairns. Self catering, secure car parking, pool/gazebo, opp PO and Woolworths. Ph 07 4041 2350.
PUBLIC NOTICE CIVIL celebrant Kathleen Roberts. Naming Ceremonies, Marriages, Funeral Co-ordination. 4069 5004 or 0427 695 004
To ensure that consumers locating contractors through advertisements published are protected, and that licensed contractors are not being disadvantaged, the Building Services Authority requires that all advertisers • state their name and BSA licence number on their advertisement or • state words to the effect “cannot perform building work valued at more than $3,300”. Non-compliance with these requirements may result in the advertiser receiving a warning or a fine from the BSA. If you do not meet the above requirements in your present advertisement, please contact the Cooktown Local News as soon as possible with your details.
T: 1300 4895 00, 4098 2281 M: 0419 828 639 E: ads@cooktownlocalnews.com.au
CLASSIFIEDS ADVERTISE your classified here! Garage Sales, Meetings, Car or Boat for Sale!
Cooktown Skip Bins Rubbish removal and disposal Ph: 4069 5545 or 0408 772 361
www.csiro.au
Quiz questions
Ocular health Eyesight testing Glaucoma assessment Diabetic sight analysis Contact Lens Consultations
Eyedentity Optical phone: (07) 4033 7575
CAPE YORK ENGINEERING COOKTOWN MARINE Penrite Oil Agent
Steel and Aluminium supplies • Welding Fabrication: steel, alloy, stainless, site work • Guillotine, Bender, Roller: pipe threading and bending • Machining: lathe, milling • Hydraulics: hose repairs • Bolts, welding equipment • Metroll products, perlins, iron by order • Marine: boat, trailer, outboard repairs, parts and oils
220 MacMillan St, Cooktown
Ph Phil 4069 5224 or Mob 0417 776 524
CAIRNS Rainbow Inn. 3½ star, all facilities including cable TV. Close to the city, from $65 per night. Ph 4051 1022.
STANDBY Response Service. Support and information for people bereaved by suicide. Ph 0439 722 266. 24 hours – 7 days per week.
Attention: Trades & Services Advertisers
Visiting regularly
MOTELS
PUBLIC NOTICE
DOUBLE HELIX science quiz
Servicing Cooktown since 1997
FOR RENT Cab i n for re n t o n organic farm.15 minutes from Cooktown on bitumen. Self-contained. Unfurnished. Suit 1-2 persons. Excellent condition. $170/week. Ph 4069 5058 afternoons and early evenings.
TOWING / TYRES
Optometrist visiting
1. True or false? Paleontology is the scientific study of prehistoric life. 2. In which ocean will CSIRO’s bio argo floats be released? 3. Which stars are hotter – blue or red? 4. Why are ladybirds often brightly coloured? 5. How many legs does a scorpion have?
Quiz answers
STORAGE SHEDS
CLASSIFIEDS
1. True. Paleontology is the scientific study of prehistoric life. 2. CSIRO’s bio argo floats will be released into the Indian Ocean. 3. Blue stars are hotter than red stars. 4. A ladybird’s bright colours warn predators to stay away. 5. A scorpion has eight legs.
trades & services directory
To subscribe to Double Helix go to www.csiro.au/helix-subscribe or call 02 6276 6643
Coffee and the
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Cooktown Local News
What do I do if I find sick, injured or orphaned wildlife? Call FNQ Wildlife Rescue on (07)
4053 4467 1. The Wildlife Rescue emergency number is manned by volunteers 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We will assess the animal and, depending on that assessment, take the animal to a vet or a wildlife foster carer. 2. All of our carers are trained in the rehabilitation of native animals through workshops, hands-on experience, mentoring programmes and constant feedback. Rest assured the animal will go to the right person for the best chance of a speedy recovery.
Interested in becoming a member or carer? Contact FNQ Wildlife Rescue Association Inc. Email: fnqwr@bigpond.com Web: www.fnqwildliferescue.org.au
Turtle Rescue
Yuku-Baja-Muliku Rangers are offering their services to assist with any sick or injured Marine Turtles found. We encourage contact with us at any time to implement a speedy recovery for these beautiful creatures to enable a better chance of rehabilitation.
Please contact our office on (07) 4069 6957 or Larissa - 0432 283 357 / Mick - 0408 577 193. Yuku Baja Muliku Landowner & Reserves Ltd • Archer Point Land Trust • www.archerpoint.com.au Ph: (07) 4069 6957 ~ Fax: (07) 4069 6501 • PO Box 1011 Cooktown QLD 4895 Turtle Rescue is supported by
News Cooktown Local
Perfection. keep in touch
your Read copy at home A Cooktown Local News print
subscription is a great idea if you are moving away and want to keep in touch with friends and events in the Cooktown area.
Phone
1300 4895 00 or 4098 2281 accounts@regionalandremote.com.au
Cooktown Local News – Thursday, March 6, 2014 – 15
CLASSIFIEDS
NURSE MANAGER HopeVale Aboriginal Shire Council is seeking applications for the full-time position of Nurse Manager for Council’s 20 approved bed, ageing in place Aged Care facility. HopeVale is situated 46 km north west of Cooktown and is located in a valley surrounded by tropical native bush land and mountain ranges. The HopeVale community is a population of approximately 1500 people. The care needs of some aged care residents are complex and require skilled clinical understanding and oversight. This would be a great opportunity for someone with management and leadership experience who is looking to develop and progress their skills and enjoy a tropical sea change while working as part of a dynamic team. Accommodation is available with use of a Council Vehicle subject to availability. An attractive remuneration package can be negotiated. The successful applicant will meet the following criteria: • Current National Nurse Registration • Sound interpersonal and communication skills • Ability to support and build on existing quality management systems • Demonstrated ability to meet the requirements of the ACFI • Established team leader and possess change management skills For further information contact Ivan Hegamaea on 07 4083 8000 or email: hr@hopevale.qld.gov.au. Applications in writing should be marked confidential, include a current Curriculum Vitae and a summary of your Management work history. Applications should be forwarded to: Chief Executive Officer Hope Vale Aboriginal Shire Council C/- Post Office Hope Vale Hope Vale Qld 4895 Applications close Friday, March 21, 2014. Hope Vale Aboriginal Shire Council is an Equal Opportunity Employer
POSITION VACANT
FACILITIES MANAGER HOPE VALE
Hope Vale Aboriginal Shire Council is seeking applications for the full-time position of a Facilities Manager for the new Hope Vale Multi-purpose Centre. This position is responsible for the day to day management of the centre as well as the planning, coordination and implementation of activities within the centre, sports field and swimming pool. As such, the role requires someone with leadership and facility management skills, as well as an understanding of working with Indigenous people. An attractive remuneration package can be negotiated. The successful applicant must meet the following criteria: 1. Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultures and demonstrated ability to communicate effectively and sensitively with indigenous people; 2. Experience in human services, community development and community organisations and / or relevant experience in working with indigenous communities; 3. The ability to communicate effectively and courteously with Council’s clients (including members of the public), other Council staff, community groups, representatives of government departments and other authorities; 4. The ability to work independently or as part of a team 5. Experience in operating a multipurpose centre or similar facility 6. The ability to coordinate and deliver recreational, sporting and other type of programs. For further information contact Ivan Hegamaea on 07 4083 803 or email: hr@hopevale.qld.gov.au. Applications in writing should be marked confidential, include a current Curriculum Vitae and a summary of your Management work history. Applications should be forwarded to: Human Resource Manager Hope Vale Aboriginal Shire Council C/- Post Office Hope Vale Hope Vale Qld 4895 Applications close Friday, March 21, 2014. Hope Vale Aboriginal Shire Council is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Late of Cooktown passed away at Cairns Hospital on 28th February 2014 aged 58 years. Laura will be sadly missed by family and friends. In keeping with Laura’s wishes, a private family service has been held. Cairns Crematorium Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens Foster Road, White Rock, Qld 4868 Ph : 4036 1888
GARAGE SALE
FOR LEASE Old Troncs depot, McIvor Road Ph: 4035 3636
SALE ADVERTISE YOUR GARAGE SALE HERE! Attention-seeking space seeks like-minded advertiser. Email your line classified through to ads@ cooktownlocalnews.com. au or call 1300 4895 00.
Thank you...
A sincere thank you to the doctors, nursing staff and administration staff of Cooktown Medical Centre and Cooktown hospital for the untiring and dedicated care and attention they gave to Laura Smith while she battled her ailment.
From the immediate family and Vic. Annual General Meeting Cape York Weeds and Feral Animals Program Incorporated
Your community’s NEW ENVIRONMENTAL group Monday, March 10 at 4pm CWA Hall Cooktown Opportunity for you to support the continuation of effective pest programs in our region. If you’re interested in becoming a member or executive member we would love to hear from you. RSVP or future information please email cywafapInc@gmail.com
20ft shipping containers
TENDER
T0314 – Sale of secondhand goods and plant Parties interested in purchasing second-hand plant from Council (and other like items) are invited to submit pricing by Tender. Tender Documents are only available from: www.cook.qld.gov.au (search Tenders) Hard copies will not be distributed by Council. Hard copies may be printed at the Cooktown Library for a nominal fee. Tenders open Thursday March 6, 2014 and must be submitted on the appropriately coded forms or will be deemed non-conforming and discarded. Tenders close Thursday March 27, 2014 at 2.00pm.
supply and deliver to cooktown • Other areas welcome • Water and vermon proof
$4500 + GST delivered
Ph Precision Towing 0439 988 084
Telephone: 1300 4895 00 Fax: 1300 7872 48 Phones attended 8.30am to 5pm - Monday to Friday
HOPE VALE ABORIGINAL SHIRE COUNCIL
EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST PROVISION OF DRY AND WET HIRE OF HEAVY EQUIPMENT Hope Vale Aboriginal Shire Council invites registration from Goods and Services providers interested to being appointed to Council Panel of Providers for dry and wet hire of the following items on an occasional period from May, 2014 – December, 2014: • Dozer unspecified • Loader unspecified • Grader CAT 140 series or equivalent • Roller Multi Tyre 18T • Roller Smooth Drum 14T • Roller Pad Foot 18T • Diesel Fuel Trailer 1500 Ltre • Tipper End 10T • Excavator 20T • Portable Toilets • Job Truck • Transport above equipment Cairns and/or supplier to job site Preference may be negotiated with suppliers prepared to offer equipment on a weekly or monthly rental arrangement. All enquiries and or clarification should be directed to: Ross Higgins – Mobile 0448 110 905 Expressions of Interest should be submitted by 12 noon on Friday, March 21, 2014, to the Chief Executive Officer, Muni Street, Hope Vale, Q 4895, or email: ceo@hopevale.qld.gov.au
Photo: Michael Amendolia
POSITION VACANT
Smith, Laura Margaret
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CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING DEADLINE: 10.30AM WEDNESDAYS 16 – Cooktown Local News – Thursday, March 6, 2014
COMMUNITY
Along the BLOOMFIELD TRACK
with Mike D’Arcy – D’Arcy of DAintree 4WD tours
The Lady President wound open the car window, confirmed that we were white-skinned and gave us a big smiling wave. Her now alerted husband, Dr Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono (SBY), Indonesian President, generously did the same. Here we were, in the middle of Sulawesi (one of 17,500 or so islands in Indonesia), waving to the Presidential party, and being waved at in return. I suspect that I saw SBY’S lips mouth, “Tell Tony that all is forgiven,” but I might be mistaken. At least we felt we were doing our bit to repair Australian-Indonesian tensions.
Presidential welcome in Sulawesi We had looked out over the Makassar Strait, the deep ocean trench which has prevented much of Asia’s big fauna (lions, elephants, monkeys etc), from crossing over to the Australian/ New Guinea side. And I had re-read my copy of one of Alfred Russell Wallace’s classic books, “The Malaya Archipelago”, to get a reminder of how extensive the Makassar Empire was, even stretching to the top end of Australia. Makassans were making long sea voyages here to collect sea slug/sea trepang and mix cultures at least
300 hundred years before European settlement. We were fascinated to see the incredible range of big and beautiful butterflies in Sulawesi, including the birdwings and the shared Ulysses, flying around among the thickly vegetated limestone mountains. We looked for a few of the 46 species of rattan (lawyer or wait-a-while) vine, but they were not obvious - maybe because they have been so heavily exploited. Durians, breadfruit, nutmegs, cloves, salaks, coconuts, mangosteens,
Bamboo Torajan houses and rice silos in Sulawesi, Indonesia.
peppers and bananas grow naturally alongside introduced maize, coffee and cocoas. Enormous terraces of irrigated rice, with fertilising ducks, chooks and working buffalo were testament to ingenuity and the necessities of survival. Men and women were planting, reaping, and hand-threshing rice - a year-long process in this region. Sulawesi has an incredibly rich range of bird species such as colourful kingfishers (reds, purples and orange); drongos; starlings; hawks; doves
and pigeons. Many of the families and a few species are familiar to us, except for the various oddly-shaped hornbills.
huge open wooden coffins in limestone caves and along the cliffs. In places, the old bones spill onto the walkways.
The big tourist hotspot in Sulawesi is Tana Toraja, one of the top three tourist attractions in Indonesia (along with Bali and the Hindu temples at Borobudur). It’s a region with people believing in animism and/or Christianity in this Moslem part of the world. Their ornate bamboo and rattan houses and rice silo structures are unique. Even more so are the amazing family burial chambers in
A marvellous trip, but we’re back home now. It’s great to see the rainforest so green and vibrant and the creeks and waterfalls flowing so well.
Rice harvesting with reaping hooks at Toraja, Sulawesi in Indonesia.
Living Well
The Bloomfield River crossing has had its usual wet weather problems and continues to be impassable for days at a time. Work has been able to continue on the bridge decking and superstructure, and real progress
has been made despite the wet weather. Douglas Council workers have done a little cleaning and filling around Woobadda Creek making it safer. Parts of the Bloomfield Track are very slippery during wet weather so be very careful at this time of the year. Tides should pose no problems for the next week, but watch out for heavy rains from the Coral Sea low. Happy travelling. Mike and Trish D’Arcy D’Arcy of Daintree 4WD Tours Phone: +61 7 4098 9180 www.darcyofdaintree. com.au
Wreathed hornbill, a rainforest bird from Bali and Sumatra.
with MICHELLE HODGKISS
The hype of raw foods - is raw really healthier? RAW food can be nutritious, especially when you include more fresh fruit and vegetables into your diet. The common reason people perceive raw fruits and vegetables to be healthier is the misconception that cooking foods destroys the nutritional quality. It is true that through modern methods of highly processing foods, a number of nutritional benefits can be lost including: reduced fibre and loss of water-soluble vitamins such as Vitamin C and some B Vitamins. However, it is important to differentiate the differences between highly processed food preparation methods and cooking methods. Many cooking methods in food preparation
boast nutrition benefits, some of these include: • The process of cooking foods can break apart cellular walls and fibre to release nutrients that otherwise would be unavailable from the same raw foods. Take tomatoes for example. When cooked, the nutrient lycopene can be absorbed more readily. Lycopene is an antioxidant and recent research suggests that it may play an important role in preventing some cancers; and • Cooking can also reduce certain chemicals in foods that limit the ability of our bodies to absorb other minerals that are present in the raw food. For example, cooked spinach can increase the bioavailability of minerals such as iron; The key is, to maxi-
mize the nutrient content from food by enjoying both cooked and raw seasonal fruits and vegetables. Be mindful not to overcook fruits and vegetables and avoid charring, which can both compromise the nutritional value and may increase the risk of adverse health conditions. Raw desserts have become increasingly more popular and in my opinion there is no argument here on the nutritional value and taste compared to the highly processed alternatives. Although many raw desserts have a high fat content, the fat source is commonly from the “good fats” (mono and poly-unsaturated fats). However, it is still important to enjoy raw desserts as an occasional
food – portion perfection is the key. Have a go at making a this cake and enjoy.
Raw chocolate cake Base ingredients: 10 medjool dates or fresh palm fruits - add more as needed to bind the base together); ½ cup coconut flakes; ½ cup almonds; and ¼ cup sesame seeds. Method: Blitz in food processor and squish into the bottom of a springform or lined cake tin. Cake filling ingredients: . 2 cups cashews; . Water; ¼ cup melted, but cooled coconut oil; 1/3 cup melted, but cooled cacao butter; Pinch of salt;
2 tsp. vanilla essence; ¼ cup liquid sweetener (honey, agar syrup); and ½ cup cacao. Some of these ingredients may only be found in health food stores. Method: Soak cashews overnight, drain water and rinse cashews; Blend cashews in food processor. Add ¼ cup of water, then adding tablespoons of water at a time until creamy texture is achieved; Add coconut oil, cacao butter, salt, cacao, vanilla extract and liquid sweetener; Blend until smooth and poor over the base; and To speed up the setting process, set in freezer for 1 – 2 hours. Store leftovers in the fridge.
Raw chodolate cake (above) and with some added trimmings (left). Photos: MICHELLE HODGKISS.
Cooktown Local News – Thursday, March 6, 2014 – 17
SPORT
Say “no” to soft drink at weekend sport
Deadlines
Advertising –
• Box ad bookings: by 10am TUESDAYS • Box ad material: by NOON TUESDAYS • Line Classifieds: by 10.30am WEDNESDAYS
Editorial –
• General (pics, stories, letters, etc): by NOON MONDAYS • Regular columns: by 5pm FRIDAYS • Sports columns: by 5pm MONDAYS
Marlin Coast Veterinary Surgery Will be visiting Cooktown WedneSday, MaRCH 12 from 2pm and THuRSday, MaRCH 13 until 12 noon Clinic is at the CWA rooms FOR APPOINTMENTS PLEASE PHONE
Sylvia Geraghty 4069 5337 or Clinic 4057 6033 Appointments are essential
Country Road Coachlines CAIRNS TO COOKTOWN ~ Passenger and freight ~
EXPRESS BUS SERVICE
Bus Services
INLAND RUN DEPARTS CAIRNS
Wed, Fri, Sat and Sun at 7am – Arrives Cooktown 11.45am
DEPARTS COOKTOWN
Wed, Fri, Sun at 1.30pm – Arrives Cairns 6pm Sat at 12.30pm – arrives Cairns 5pm
COASTAL RUN DEPARTS CAIRNS
Cancer Council Queensland has backed the Queensland Government’s push for a ban on soft drink sales at children’s sporting events, in a move to combat growing rates of childhood obesity. C h i e f h e a lt h of f i c e r Jeanette Young is urging parents to call on sports club committees to ban soft drinks at weekend sport, saying consumption after a game reinforces great behavior with bad nutrition. Around 27 per cent of Queensland children (aged five to 17) are currently overweight or obese, with the figure expected to rise as the state’s obesity crises worsens. Cancer Council Queensland spokesperson Katie Clift said many parents didn’t realise the amount of sugar in a standard can of soft drink, and what effect that could have on their child’s health. “One can of soft drink alone can contain up to 10 teaspoons of sugar, and many Queenslanders think it’s ac-
given the chance to host a soggy run and she didn’t disappoint the Hashers who were mad enough to turn up.
DEPARTS COOKTOWN
Tues, Thurs and Sat at 7.30am
AGENTS
COOKTOWN (Photo Shop) 4069 5446 BLOOMFIELD (Ayton Store) 4060 8125 LAKELAND (Mobil Roadhouse) 4060 2188
Bus Service and Airport Shuttle Bus Bookings essential: 7 days 4069 5446 Owned and operated by Allan Harlow
• The schedule is subject to change or to cancel without notice • Child fares • Student fares • Pensioner rates (not available on Saturdays)
and salty food and drinks is an important aspect of maintaining a healthy weight.” Around 16 per cent of children aged 5-17 years consume non-diet soft drink and non-diet flavoured drinks at least daily*. Cancer Council is calling on Queensland parents to support their children as role models by reducing their personal consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages. Obesity rates for Queensland adults have doubled in the last 16 years. Currently, around 57 per cent of Queensland adults and
*The Health of Queenslander 2012, Advancing good health, Fourth report of the Chief Health Officer Queensland.
Mary Poppins joins the Hash
Mon, Wed and Fri at 7am
‘Travel with the Local Boy’
ceptable to have one can a day – it isn’t,” Ms Clift said. “It’s not just soft drinks that are a concern – beverages like energy drinks, fruit drinks, cordial and sports drinks contain large amounts of ‘hidden’ sugar. “The consumption of these sugar-sweetened beverages is associated with serious health issues such as weight gain and obesity – which can lead to some cancers, Type 2 diabetes and heart problems. “While obesity is caused by a range of complex factors, we know that eating a healthy diet and limiting sugary, fatty
about 26 per cent of the state’s children are overweight or obese. Cancer Council Queensland recommends Queenslanders limit their consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages, and instead drink water or unflavoured low-fat milk. At least one-third of all cancers are preventable through lifestyle adjustments including eating a healthy diet, being physically active, reducing alcohol intake and maintaining a healthy weight. Queenslanders are invited to join the QUEST to live a healthier life and reduce their risk of cancer, via quest. org.au. More information about Cancer Council Queensland is available at www.cancerqld. org.au or via Cancer Council Helpline 13 11 20.
Hash Trash IT was only fair that Soggy Box should be
All were issued with a detailed map which included rain shelters, paddling pools and possible snorkelling areas. Giving a false sense of security that it never rains on Hash by our Moses
who failed to turn up, we looked on the bright side and set off in almost sunshine. Halfway through the run, with dark clouds rolling in. we paused to hear the oncoming roar of the approaching rain. Soon, most Hashers looked like drowned rats although one was seen skipping under a huge
multi-coloured umbrella thinking she was Mary Poppins. A damp fairy queen called the circle to order and Wet Check and Cracklin fell under her spell with lucky numbers. Then, the intrepid travellers to China were farewelled on their way to Interhash. The highlight of the night was a
movie set table set-up with all the trimmings and a proper sit down meal. What ever next? Titus even had a coffee. Next week, what’s left of the Hashers will meet at Thermo and Fart’s little shack in the dip. The run starts at 5.30 pm. Turn up with flippers and wetsuits if the rain keeps up. On-on Crak Bak.
LEAVE CAIRNS MONDAY TO FRIDAY Deliveries 5 days – AND DELIVER THE NEXT MORNING Meeting all freight needs from Cairns to the Cape • Port Douglas • Mossman • Cooktown • Laura • Archer River • Coen • Musgrave • Kowanyama • Weipa • Croydon • Normanton • Karumba • Pormpuraaw – from 20 grams to 20 tonnes –
Fleet includes: Body trucks, Semi trailers, Refrigerated vans, Side lifter and Fork lift hire
COOKTOWN – tony
CAIRNS OFFICE
Down driveway at Peter Russell Windscreen Repairs Ph: 4069 5459 • Fax: 4035 4021 • Mob: 0419 759 892
25 Redden Street Ph: 4035 4022 • Fax: 4035 4021
Tuxworth & Woods Carriers 18 – Cooktown Local News – Thursday, March 6, 2014
Established more than 30 years
SPORT
Register now for club firearms safety course Shoot was well-attended with 12 members going to the line for a 25-metre, 3-position Service Shoot.
LAST meeting
Wednesday’s and Sunset
March 15 from 8.30am.
with 343, while Janne took out the Centre Fire event with 347 and Mal finishing 2nd with 344.
And from a possible score of 360, the following results were recorded:
Members have decided to continue Wednesday’s calendar of Service, Standard and Sports Pistol Centre Fire matches.
Rimfire - 1st was Toby with 353, 2nd was with 344 and Ros was 3rd
The club will be holding a Firearms Safety Course next Saturday,
With limited places available, those interested should register as soon as possible. Contact 0417 817 536 for inquiries or to register.
CLICK USED
USED CARS
Wednesday, 12 – Service Shoot from 5.30pm; Wednesday, 19 - Sports Pistol Centre Fire Shoot from 5.30pm; and
March dates for your diary include:
Wednesday, 26 – General meeting followed by Service Shoot from 5.30pm.
Saturday, 8 – Working bee from 8.30am;
Mal Soutar President.
Eagle soars for ‘Big Andy’ pleasure in announcing that we have a new Monthly Medal sponsor in the way of the Cooktown Memorial RSL Club.
In the Bunker
A big thank you goes to the Cooktown Memorial RSL Club for your kind sponsorship.
WHILE the international golf scene might boast the big-hitting John Daly, Cooktown’s own Daly, “Big Andy”, showed his sensational style last Saturday, hitting an “eagle” (hole-inone) on the 15th. He managed the feat while contesting the Irwin Constructions Multiplier Stableford competition, with his effort now registered on the Official Hole-In-One Register for Australia www.myace. com.au. And his sharp-shooting didn’t finish with the eagle, with him also taking out the Nearest-thePin for 9/18. Not only was Andy’s eagle great news for the club, I now have great
We have secured sponsors for our February, March the first week of April competitions, but are still yet to secure sponsors for the rest of the year. Hopefully, we can obtain more sponsorship for the remaining competitions. Thank you to the following businesses that have provided their kind sponsorship so far: The Italian Restaurant (Weekly Competitions); Sovereign Resort Hotel (Sunday 9-Hole Competitions); Cooktown Memorial RSL Club (Monthly Medals); Cooktown Towing and Waste; Barry Innes Electrical; Trinity Petroleum (Mobil); Irwin Constructions; Landline Consulting; Peninsula Caravan
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Park; Milkwood Lodge and Drummond Golf (Cooktown Open and Club Championships).
Graham Burton 14 and Andy Daly for 9/18. Tanya Eizenberg also managed to win the Marilyn Clark Birdies Nest on the same hole, but in good sportsmanship style, Tanya awarded the balls to Andy for his fantastic feat.
And in last week’s golfing, Ron Beacroft has been at it again, claiming yet another Italian Restaurant Weekly prize for last week’s Stableford competition with a score of 37 points on a countback from Wal Welsh who also had a score of 37.
A handful of members competed in the Sovereign Resort Sunday 9-Hole Stroke competition last week, with Alice Burton just managing to take out the day’s event (thank god for the adjustment of handicap for ladies when playing against the men hey Alice?) with a nett score of 32. No one has played in the Italian Restaurant Weekly Stroke competition as yet, so it is open slather for anyone willing to give it a go.
A good field of members turned out to compete in the Irwin Constructions Multiplier Stableford competition last Saturday with the girls, Julie Sauer and Tanya Eizenberg “Junya” having a fantastic game together to win the competition with a multiplied Stableford score of 64. The team of Mark Rolan and Robyn McDonald, “Marrow” also had a great game to come in as runners-up with a multiplied Stableford score of 60.
Nominations for the Cooktown Open are now closed, as we have a full field and a reserve list just in case there are any cancellations - with three out-of-town players already on the list.
All the Nearest-thePins were landed, with Wal Welsh claiming 2/11;
To the members who
have nominated and not yet paid, can you please do so by this coming Saturday and please also compete the Nomination Form and indicate your preferred tee time - although I do like it better if you have no preference as it makes it easier when doing the tee schedule. And please also let me know if you are bringing a partner to the catered dinner, and if so, include an extra $40 on top of your nomination fee. Thanks. Brett Ogle’s Top Tip … Accurate alignment would be a simple matter if we could stand directly on the line that extends from our ball to the target. But the fact is that we stand to the side of the ball, and that makes alignment tough. For this reason, I don’t even try to align my body to the target until after I have aligned my clubface with my intended target. Happy golfing everyone Kelly Barnett Manager Cooktown Golf Links
4041 4543
www.westcomotors.com.au
Tide times Cooktown NOTE: these are predictions only, subject to change due to prevailing weather conditions. It is recommended you use this table as a guide only. Information from www.bom.gov.au/ australia/tides/ - select "Around Cairns" red tag, then select Cooktown from the list.
Fri 7 Mar
Tue 11 Mar
High 3:26 am 2.03 m Low 11:33 am 1.54 m High 3:29 pm 1.63 m Low 9:39 pm 1.27 m
Low 12:23 am 0.95 m High 6:52 am 2.53 m Low 1:15 pm 1.07 m High 6:59 pm 2.03 m
Sat 8 Mar
Wed 12 Mar
High 5:11 am 2.19 m Low 12:18 pm 1.36 m High 5:20 pm 1.71 m Low 11:03 pm 1.17 m
Low 12:52 am 0.87 m High 7:16 am 2.58 m Low 1:36 pm 1.02 m High 7:22 pm 2.12 m
High 5:55 am 2.33 m Low 12:38 pm 1.23 m High 6:03 pm 1.83 m Low 11:48 pm 1.05 m
Low 1:19 am 0.82 m High 7:39 am 2.62 m Low 1:56 pm 0.98 m High 7:44 pm 2.19 m
Mon 10 Mar
Fri 14 Mar
High 6:26 am 2.45 m Low 12:56 pm 1.14 m High 6:33 pm 1.94 m
2005 MAZDA 6 CLASSIC GG
2003 HOLDEN RODEO LT (4X4)
2005 HOLDEN COMMODORE STORM UTE VZ
Dual Airbag Package, Fog Lights - Front, Cruise Control, 16” Alloy Wheels
Auto, 16” Alloy Wheels, Engine Immobiliser, Limited Slip Differential
3.6ltr V6 Manual, Dual airbag, LSD, Alloy wheels
#84425
2005 MITSUBISHI TRITON GLX
14,990
$
#84732
Nudge Bar, Spotties, Side Steps, Tow Bar
9,990
$
#84600
10,990
$
#84706
Low 1:43 am 0.79 m High 8:01 am 2.64 m Low 2:15 pm 0.94 m High 8:06 pm 2.26 m
293 Mulgrave Road, Cairns
Manual, Nudge Bar, Spotties, Tow Bar, Side Steps
7,990
11,990
$
#84626
NEW MOON Monday, Mar 31. Time: 04.45
FIRST QUARTER Saturday, Mar 8. Time: 23.27
FULL MOON Monday, Mar 17. Time: 03.09
LAST QUARTER Monday, Mar 24. Time: 11.46
Marine radio channels:
21 and 16
Weather Watch Endeavour Valley rainfall: Feb: 253.5mm, Mar: 73mm
TheLURE SHOP
Sun 9 Mar Thu 13 Mar
2003 HYUNDAI TERRACAN HIGHLANDER
$
MOON PHASES
• Local advice • Bait, Ice, Tackle • Chandlery • Garmin • GME • Supplies for commercial fleet • Charter bookings • Marine batteries • Snorkelling • Spearfishing • Bushpower • Trailer parts • Battery chargers 146 Charlotte St, Cooktown Ph/Fax: 07 4069 6655 Mob: 0427 623 398 russelltbowman@ bigpond.com
Open 7 Days
TOP END CARS
4WD & Commercials 2004 TOYOTA RAV4
13,990
$
#84878
Manual, Petrol, Alloy Wheels, Fog Lights, Cruise Control
2010 MAHINDRA PIK-UP (4X4)
2002 TOYOTA HIACE COMMUTER
2005 MITSUBISHI PAJERO GLX LWB (4X4)
2005 NISSAN PATROL ST (4X4)
Alarm System/ Remote Anti Theft, Dual Airbag Package, Anti-lock Braking
Manual, Central Locking, Power Mirrors, Power Steering, 12 Seater
Auto Stability Control, Limited Slip Differential, 16” Alloy Wheels
17” Alloy Wheels, Cruise Control, LSD, Bull Bar
15,990
$
#84730
19,990
$
#84799
CARS FROM $40 PER WEEK*
19,990
$
#84830
24,990
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*Subject to finance approval. Terms & Conditions apply. Cooktown Local News – Thursday, March 6, 2014 – 19
Sport Cooktown Local
Weather kind to new shooters
Justin, Ben and Aaron took the opportunity to sight-in their rifles along with the other shooters enjoying the opportunity to learn some of the tips of target shooting.
SPORTS CONTRIBUTIONS
Phone: 4069 5773 • Fax: 1300 787 248 • Email: editor@cooktownlocalnews.com.au
Sports reports deadline is 5pm, Monday prior to publication
editor@cooktownlocalnews.com.au
Grunter on the prowl for prawns to the outer reef structures. Their legal size is 35cm with a bag limit of five.
The March calendar of events to be held at the Cameron Creek Range include: AT the SSAA Cameron Creek Range this Saturday, March 8 is a schedule Shotgun Shoot, but due to unforeseen circumstances, it is unable to confirm one way or the other, whether it will take place until this afternoon. Please contact Jim on 4069 5173 for information. Next Tuesday, March 11, the monthly meeting will be held at Fishermans Wharf at 7pm. Last Saturday, the weatjer held off for the Rifle Shoot, and although there was no competition shooting, new shooters
Saturday 8 - DTL Shotgun shoot from 1pm; Tuesday 11- SSAA Cape York meeting from 7pm; Saturday 15 - Rifle Practice and Sighting-in from 8am; Saturday 15 – Pistol Shoot from 3pm; Sunday 16 - Service Rifle Shoot from 9am; Friday 21 – Sunset Rifle Shoot; Saturday 22 - Working bee; Saturday 22 – Sunset Pistol Shoot; and Sunday 23 - Black Powder Shoot from 9am. Anne Williams Secretary.
Cape York SSAA members at last Saturday’s Rifle Shoot. Photo: GARY HUTCHISON.
IT has been yet another quiet week for barramundi fishing, although the grunter are taking up the slack in the river fishing stakes. With the fresh water flows flushing the prawns out into the river, the grunter are out in force chasing all those nice prawns. So, if you want to go after them you need live or frozen bait, prawns or prawn lures. The legal size for silver grunter is 30cm, and for javelin barred grunter it is 40cm, with a bag limit of 10 for both varieties. The estuaries and creeks continue to offer quality mud crabs. Last weekend was generally calm, which provided fine conditions for offshore boating and fishing. Many locals went out on Saturday and Sunday, coming home with a mix of nice reef fish. The main varieties caught were coral trout, red and spangled emperor, nannygai and mangrove Jacks. The Jack is classified as a tidal river species, but it can be found in the waters from rivers and estuaries all the way out
The weather conditions for this coming weekend are unclear at time of writing. The first quarter-moon phase is late Saturday night, so the tidal currents will be sluggish. There could be moderate to strong South-Easterly winds and possible showers stemming from a tropical low pressure system off the coast. Be aware of changing sea and wind conditions before venturing out. Tight lines. Russell Bowman The Lure Shop.
TOP: Blake Nevins holding a barramundi caught last week in the Endeavour River. BOTTOM: Thomas Nevins’ rod is used as a measure to show the size of this nice grunter he caught last week with the same rod. Photos: THOMAS NEVINS of Cooktown Barra Charters.
PROPERTIES FOR SALE LAND
Phone 4069 5775 112 Charlotte Street Cooktown Q 4895 HOUSES rainforestsales@bigpond.com www.realestate.com.au
Dan Kerridge 0438 982 577
ads@cooktownlocalnews.com.au
• Newman St – 1,012 sq mtrs rainforest, creek, next to nice homes ................... $69,000 • Garden St – 800 sq mtrs, lots of trees, not far from schools............................. $71,000 • Charlotte St – 1,012 sq mtrs on the main street, can do a development............ $85,000 • Off Poison Creek Rd – 16 ha with creek along 1 boundary, power..................$149,500 • In town area, large block, 2 bedrms, 2 verandahs, unique driveway, negotiable .$253,000 • New Listing! 3 bedrms, aircon, fenced, 70 sq mtr shed, the best landscaping ...$345,000 • New Listing! Brand new home, shed, fenced, aircon, timber verandahs ............$475,000 • Home on poles, high up on Grassy Hill. Exclusive property, call to inspect .........$649,000
20 – Cooktown Local News – Thursday, March 6, 2014
on Acreage BUY of the WEEK House New Listing! Very well presented, large, 3-bedroom airconditioned home, huge outdoor living area, shade house, large shed, bore. 1.7 ha land (4.25 acres). Tropical landscaping, large lawn areas, $ fruit trees, irrigation, creek, rainforest, Call Dan Kerridge for an inspection natural wildlife. This property is - 0438 982 577 close to town and has it all.
375,000