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Wednesday, January 29, 2020

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BACK TO SCHOOL

With the holidays over and school back, kids have returned to the classrooms for another year of growth and learning. New prep student Cody Harris of Mareeba was all smiles as he said goodbye to mum Linda and joined his peers by walking through the gates of St Thomasâ€™ to start his schooling life.

Locals honoured with Australia Day awards l PG 7

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Roos named the new face of race ON the third weekend in May of each year, one of the region’s most iconic events takes place. The 2020 Great Wheelbarrow Race was officially launched in Dimbulah on Sunday as part of the Australia Day celebrations. The launch coincided with the naming of this year’s Face of the Race, with that title being awarded to Terry Roos for his commitment and dedication to the race since inception. Mr Roos said being named Face of the Race was very humbling. “It’s an honour and pleasure to be named the face of the race for 2020,” he said. Mr Roos has just moved back to Mareeba from Mission beach “it’s cooler up here and I was clocking up so many miles to attend the wheelbarrow race meetings, this will make my life a little easier,” “I’ve been part of the race since it started in 2004 and I’ve also competed in it 4-5 times. “It’s the best team building exercise for any business or sporting team I’ve ever had anything to do with – it builds lifelong friendships.” Each team who competes gets the opportunity to raise money to their own nominated charity. “Over the years the teams must have raised more than 2 million dollars for local charities and people in need.” The initial idea for the wheelbarrow race came from then Mareeba Mayor Mick Borzi in 2004

At the launch of the 2020 Great Wheelbarrow Race on Sunday was committee members Charlton Best, Cr Nipper Brown, Face of the Race for 2020 Terry Roos and committee member Sandy Butler.

as a way of helping the outback communities, “providing them with one of their biggest nights of the year, giving them some exposure and injecting some

money into their local community,” Mr Roos said. Last year more than 40 teams competed and this year the race will start in Chillagoe and end

in Mareeba on the Sunday at the Rodeo Grounds. This year’s Great Wheelbarrow Race will take place from May 15-17 with registrations

now open at www.greatwheelbarrowrace.com. For regular updates and information visit the Great Wheelbarrow Race Facebook page.

Stamp of approval for our Wet Tropics tree dwellers

AUSTRALIA Post has released a set of stamps showcasing tree dwelling mammals from the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area and has launched nationally. The Bennett’s Tree-kangaroo, the Lemuroid Ringtail Possum and the Spectacled Flyingfox have all been selected to be the faces of the new line of stamps. Australia Post consulted with experts from the Wet Tropics Management Authority to develop the stamp designs as well as renowned wildlife artist

Kevin Stead who illustrated the stamps. The Wet Tropics World Heritage Area is the most biodiverse area of Australia housing some 3,300 plant species, 40 percent of Australia’s bird species and 60 percent of Australia’s butterfly species. Senior Project Officer for the Authority, Terry Carmichael, said the stamp set was a great tool to help shine a light on some of the Wet Tropics’ incredible creatures and the threats they face to their continued ex-

istence. “It is fantastic to see the Wet Tropics unique animals getting some exposure,” he said. “I am sure many Australians would not know we have tree kangaroos and stunning lemuroid possums living in the tops of giant rainforest tree in northern Australia. “In Australia we take a lot of our living national heritage for granted, these stamps will help raise the level of consciousness of these incredible animals in the minds of Australians.”

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Katter comes to town BY PHIL BRANDEL

FEDERAL Member for Kennedy Bob Katter has announced he is hoping to open a fulltime office in Mareeba in the coming months. “I'm looking at three to four locations in Mareeba at the moment, but the final say falls with the Government,” Said Mr Katter The Federal Member says he’s opening a new office in Mareeba to cut down on his travel time “I travel over 45 hours per week, I can’t afford to take off 45 hours per week, it’s very ineffective,” “Mareeba is the heartland of the Kennedy electorate and a new office will make it easier for me to meet with local business owners and have access to new business and government opportunities.” The move is seen as filling the vacuum left by Local Mem-

ber Cook Cynthia Lui, who moved her electorate office out of the Cook electorate and into Cairns last year. “This move has nothing to do with Cynthia moving her office to Cairns, but if you think I’m not going to take advantage of that situation, then you believe in fairy tales.” Mr Katter told the Express there are three main reasons why he is opening an office in Mareeba. “First it’s the heartland of the Kennedy Electorate, second if we get the balance of power in Queensland Parliament by taking Cook we can get more done and more money for the region, Third the development potential for Mareeba and surrounds is huge,” “The demographics in Kennedy are changing, while the population in places like Mt Isa and Charters Towers are shrinking, the Tablelands are growing. “Also look at how much

Money Atherton hospital is getting, compared to Mareeba Hospital, we are not getting enough money for local roads compared to Cairns and that’s got to change.” Mr Katter said that one of his first priorities is to get the roads open from Mareeba to Cairns. “Forget about the upgrade of the range, there’s another option which is cheaper and easier. There’s a track from the Kennedy Highway that comes out near Redlynch/Kamerunga. I’m meeting with Main Roads today to see how we go about making it happen.” It’s believed that the new office will be staffed fulltime 5 days a week by 1-2 local staff, starting with Katje Gibson from Atherton who will be manning the Mareeba office. Katje is currently working for KAP MP Shane Knuth and will start as Bob Katter's new Chief of Staff on February 5, 2020.

Member for Kennedy Bob Katter has announced he is hoping to open a fulltime office in Mareeba.

Atherton Hospital redevelopment takes shape THE Atherton Hospital renovations have reached an important milestone with the pouring of the first concrete slab for one of the new buildings as part of the Atherton Hospital redevelopment. Construction on the $70 million project has been in full swing since September

last year following significant planning and investment by the Queensland Government to help provide new and better health facilities for the Tablelands. Atherton Hospital Director of Nursing and Midwifery and Facility Manager, Dr Ann Aitken is excited to see the new

building taking shape. “The 100 square metre slab for the Community, Allied and Mental Health Building on Jack Street was poured in three sections over the past few weeks, taking 26 truckloads of concrete to complete,” she said. “There has already been

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PAGE 4 The Express, Wednesday, January 29, 2019

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Hodge pulls out of mayoral race Peter Hodge is now running as a TRC councillor for division 5.

date late last year. He told The Express that he wanted to concentrate on the council’s finances, something he could spend more time doing by becoming a councillor. “I really want to get the council's finances fixed and turned around,” Mr Hodge said.

Former One Nation member puts hand up for TRC mayor AFTER moving to the Tablelands in 2010 and after keeping a close eye on the local community and council, Ken Carey says that he now wants to be Mayor of Tablelands Regiobal Council because “what the Tablelands need is someone with vision”. He also says he doesn’t want to comment on the current Tablelands council “What’s happened has happened and I’m putting a line underneath that. We can’t change what has happened but we can change the future.” “I want to start afresh with a new council, there’s no point in looking backwards.” “There’s only one way to arrest the council current budget deficit and that is to get more ratepayers and the only way to do that is to get more industry here, we need more wealth and jobs in the area, which will attract new residents and extra ratepayers” “My three pronged approach is to bring wealth, jobs and increasing the quality of public services to the Tablelands” Even though Mr Carey has met with Member for Hill Mr Shane Knuth, he isn’t seeking endorsement from any other councillors or politicians “nor will I give any endorsements because I want to be seen as 100 per cent independent” “I admit that I was once a member of the Australian Liber-

Ken Carey has announced he will run for TRC mayor in 2020.

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ty Alliance and One Nation but I have now resigned from all political parties so that I can truly run as an independent. “I do believe Brisbane is punishing us for living in the North and I support North Queensland becoming its own state.” “I am also against the new Green Power hub at Kaban and I am for the construction of a high temperature recycling plant and power station.

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“I want to invite major industry to the Tablelands to get more jobs and ratepayers coming to the Tablelands and I am against raising rates.” Queensland's next local government elections are due to be held on Saturday, 28 March 2020. Elections will be held for all mayors and councillors in the 77 councils across Queensland. Voting in local government elections is compulsory.

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ONE time councillor of the Tablelands Regional Council Peter Hodge has announced his withdrawal from the Mayoral race, announcing instead he will contest the upcoming election as a councillor for Division 5. This comes after he announced his intent to run as a mayoral candi-

“I discussed this with my wife, and with the juggling of my time with the council and with my business, I realised that I would have to employ staff for my business if I became mayor. “This council has lurched from one disaster after another. If the council had been doing things right, I wouldn’t have stood. As it stands they have had four deficit budgets and that’s not good enough, it’s a very slippery slope. The previous council that I was part of left a $2.47 million dollar surplus. “I’m hoping the new council will restore the standing committee on planning and finances and if I’m elected that’s something I would like to chair.” Peter feels that owning his own local business has given him a better understanding of how to get the council back in the black. “You’ve got to get your operating costs back to budget; constantly putting up rates won’t work.” He also said he doesn’t have a preference for a Mayor “Whoever the local residents elect I will work with.” Peter has been living on the Tablelands since 1964 “I love living here because it’s a great area, the weather is great, I grew up here, I’ve played football here and I had a great job at the council for years” Peter’s aims, if he gets elect-

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WINNERS: Tanya and Ted Bailey with barista Amber Rankine (back) has been awarded the ‘Best Coffee’ on the Tablelands.

Tablelands best coffee goes to Caffe Crema AS part of our tenth birthday celebrations, we are looking for the best of the Tablelands and for the past week we have been taking your votes on the best Coffee. After hundreds of votes, The Tablelands have spoken and you voted that “Caffe Crema” at the Centenary Park in Mareeba (100 Park) has the best Coffee on the Tablelands as part of The Express Newspapers “Best of the Tablelands.”

Owners of the Caffe Crema, Ted and Tanya Bailey, said they were extremely honoured to be given this award “It’s a really nice recognition of people knowing that we make nice coffee,” Tanya said. “We put a lot of effort into our coffees, use local products and we love to make coffee.” The Bailey’s also extended their thanks to their many loyal customers who support them

“We would like to thank all our loyal customers that voted for us.” The best of the Tablelands now continues and we are now looking for the Tablelands best Meat Pie. Vote now on The Express Facebook page or phone us on 4092 3464 or email editorial@ theexpressnewspaper.com.au Winners will be announced Monday February 3.

Local club donates to firefighters

IN the wake of the disastrous fires seen in southern parts of Australia, the Mareeba Leagues club has opted to donate $5000 to the NSW Rural Fire Service. The requested assistance medium being sought by those in New South Wales is money, so

the Leagues Club has decided to donate some money instead of other alternatives. Mareeba Leagues Club Chief Executive Officer Lucy Connor believes that this donation would best be appreciated by the ones battling the walls of flame.

PAGE 6 The Express, Wednesday, January 29, 2019

“It has been the firefighters that have been there on the front lines,” she said. “Some have tragically even lost their lives in their fight. “I don’t think anyone can deny that they are the persons who are risking the most.”

Lexy Ariotti donated 45cm of her hair to charity last Friday helped by Mareeba’s Yahni Pole-Rindlisbacher of Hair by Yahni.

Lexy loses her locks for a worthy cause A YOUNG Mareeba girl is doing what she can for those in need by donating a years’ worth of hair, to those who have lost their hair. 7 year-old Lexy Ariotti of Mareeba made the brave decision to cut off some of her hair, and donate it to be made into a wig for kids who have lost their hair due to a medical condition. Lexy donated her hair to Variety – The Children’s Charity, Hair with Heart, and

joined the 28,320 other people who have donated their hair. Hair with Heart has provided 111,712 children with renewed self-esteem and confidence last year through donations of wigs and fundraising. Organised through Hair by Yahni, Lexy sacrificed 45cm of her hair last Friday and is happy about where it goes. “I’m cutting my hair to donate to make wigs because

some families can’t buy those expensive wigs,” Lexy said. Wigs can cost some families up to $6000, while they only last one or two years meaning families are forking out tens of thousands of dollars on wigs through a child’s youth. To find out how you can help support this cause, or nominate to chop your own hair, head to www.variety. org.au/get-involved/hair-donation

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Agri leader named citizen of the year

THE voice of the Tablelands’ horticultural community and prominent businessman, Joe Moro has been named Mareeba Shire Council's Citizen of the Year for 2020. Hundreds gathered at Dimbulah to celebrate Australia Day on Sunday at Council's annual Australia Day citizenship and awards ceremony. Former Mareeba High School captain Alexis Ford was named Junior Citizen of the Year for her outstanding achievements and contributions to the community. Mareeba Shire Mayor Tom Gilmore congratulated all award recipients and nominees. "We have some truly inspiring individuals and community organisations, who all, in some way or another, have made this Shire a better place,” he said. Mr Moro was recognised for his leadership and strategic vision, holding multiple positions to support the region's agricultural industry and also his dedication and voluntary service to the Mareeba Shire community. “Joe is a fearless advocate for farmers and progress in the Shire," he said. “Joe continues to advocate for water security and safe and reliable transport corridors and always has the farmers' best interest at heart.” Mr Moro is influential on a number of advisory boards including North Queensland Growers, Queensland Farmers Federation and the Mareeba Dimbulah Irrigation Area Council to name a few. “His selfless devotion to the local community through Mareeba Rotary, the Chamber of Commerce and Flexi-Choice is also to be recognised," Cr Gilmore said. Junior Citizen of the Year,

Greg English of Malanda was named the 2020 Tablelands Regional Council Citizen of the Year.

Mareeba Shire Junior Citizen of the Year Alexis Ford and Citizen of the Year Joe Moro.

Alexis Ford is an outstanding young leader, sportsperson and performer. Miss Ford received a number of accolades including Mareeba State High School's Australian Defence Force LongTan Leadership and Teamwork Award and the Caltex-AllRounder Award for her academic performance, sporting success, leadership and community service. Mayor Tom Gilmore said Miss Ford was an inspirational emerging leader. "Alexis is an incredible young lady described as a kind and conscientious leader who is always willing to help others in the community," he said. “She is a talented dancer and sportsperson who also excelled academically at school and I have no doubt she has a very prosperous future ahead of her." Mayor Tom Gilmore congratulated all award winners and nominees on their outstanding efforts. 2020 MSC Australia Day Award winners:

Cape residents named joint Cook Shire Australia Day Citizens of the Year DEDICATED volunteers Alan Wilson and John ‘Tex’ Harrison have been announced as joint winners of the Cook Shire Australia Day Citizen of the Year Award at a ceremony in Cooktown on Friday. Alan Wilson, of Laura, has been a Cape York resident for almost 30 years, volunteering over the past three decades with the Laura State Emergency Services group, the Lakeland and Laura rural fire brigades, Lakeland and Laura Progress Associations, Quinkan Regional Cultural Centre, Laura Home and Community Care group, Laura Rodeo Association, Laura Turf Club, Laura and Lakeland Horse Sports and Laura Aboriginal Dance Festival. Mr Wilson has also been a Cook Shire Councillor for the past 15 years, including serving as Deputy Mayor. “Alan is a true gentleman

and shining pillar in our Cape community,” Cook Shire Mayor Peter Scott said. “It is an honour to present him with an award that recognises his years of selfless support for our region.” John ‘Tex’ Harrison, of Cooktown, has served Cooktown and surrounding communities as a firefighter with the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services Cooktown Auxiliary Brigade for 40 years, including 28 years as Brigade Captain. Mr Harrison has also been a coach and umpire for the Cooktown Junior Rugby League Club for 20 years including two years as Vice President, and has been a steward at the Cooktown Races for five years. “Being a firefighter means committing to weekly training and ongoing courses and study, being on call 24 hours a day no matter where you are or what

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• Citizen of the Year – Joe Moro and Junior Citizen of the Year – Alexis Ford • Cultural Award – Julatten Theatre Group • Community Event of the Year – Lions International 201Q2 Zone 2 Tablelands District Convention • Sporting Club of the Year – Mareeba Gymnastics Club • Community Group of the Year – Mareeba PCYC Seniors Club • Special Commendation – Western Progress Association Inc. Watsonville • Community Service Person of the Year – Janette Hodgkinson • Sports Administrator of the Year – Terrinette Neilson • Senior Sportsperson of the Year –Wayne Bryde • Highly Commended – Qamile Myrteza Highly Commended – Susi Wahjuningrum • Junior Sportsperson of the Year – Jake Bombardieri • Junior Cultural Award – Roeith Geraghty

Malanda’s Greg English named Citizen of the Year MALANDA local Greg English was named Citizen of the Year at the Tablelands Regional Council’s Australia Day award ceremony in Atherton on Sunday. “It was a real honour to recognise these amazing people in our community,” said Mayor Joe Paronella. “Congratulations to all the nominees and recipients. “We are very fortunate to have so many people in our community who make the Tablelands such a great place to live, work and play. “I’m proud of the community we live in, and the people who make it special. “Arts, sports, recreation, community services, business and events in our region would be nothing without their selfless support. “It was particularly encour-

aging to see such talented and enthusiastic young people as award nominees. “They are the future of our community and we are definitely in good hands “It was also a great honour to welcome nearly 30 new Australian citizens into our community. 2020 TRC Australia Day Award winners: • Citizen of the Year – Gregory English • Young Citizen of the Year – Riley Vallance

• Community Event of the Year – Atherton Performing Arts 40th Anniversary Celebrations • Community Service – John Whyte • Sports Administrator – Larry Crook • Junior Sports – Breanne Wadley and Amy Hunter • Cultural – Sarah Riber • Junior Cultural – Atherton Performing Arts Community Youth Group

Cook Shire Citizen of the Year Alan Wilson. Alan was a joint winner with John (Tex) Harrison (not present at the awards ceremony).

you are doing, and often putting yourself in the line of danger to make sure others are kept safe,” Cr Scott said. “Tex has also spent countless hours with the Rugby League Club and the Turf Club and his community spirit and pride is exemplary.” 2020 Cook Shire Australia Day Award winners: • Joint Citizens of the Year – Alan Wilson and John ‘Tex’ Harrison • Young Citizen of the Year – Shaelanee Hegamaea • Sports Award – Cooktown Amateur Swimming Club • Volunteer of the Year – QCWA Cooktown Branch • Arts and Culture Award – Harold Ludwick • Environmental Award – Kristina Davidson and Joanne Reuben.

The Express, Wednesday, January 29, 2019 PAGE 7

Back to School with Acting Sergeant Aleda Day

school zone times and adjust our speed accordingly. Remember drop off zones are just that, 2-minute set down areas, this is not a time for you to park the car and walk into

We all need to be ready for the unexpected; kids darting in and out between cars, bicycles appearing from no-where, the list goes on and we need to make ourselves familiar with the

WITH eight weeks of holidays coming to end, there will be a lot of relieved parents across the Tablelands. The end of holidays is a timely reminder that school zones are back in force.

school to get your child. Drivers are reminded to never que across a school crossing and police request that parents and caregivers encourage their children to use school crossings whenever possible. Some frequently asked questions about school zones: “What does the Drop off Zones really mean?” This is a 2-minute drop off/ pick up zone only. It is designed for parents to pull into this yellow marked lane to either drop off or pick up children before or after school. This lane operates from 7am - 9am and again from 2pm - 4pm. It is a 2-minute maximum zone. “Can I park my car in this zone during these times to run into the school quickly?” No, you must stay with your

Business women take lead

WITH the Council elections just around the corner, local councillors are currently looking at their options and aspirations. One Councillor from the Tablelands Regional council (TRC) is keeping everyone guessing as to what his plans are for the future. Division 6 Councillor Owen Byrnes (pictured) said “At this point in time I am not making a commitment on what my engagement will be with local government and where I might stand if I stand at all.” One thing that Councillor Byrnes does want ratepayers to know is that they need to choose wisely. “I encourage the people of the TRC community to choose wisely at the upcoming local elections. We need to ensure the region has a mayor of strong character with a council that is prepared to work with him or her in setting clear direction and expectation through a good corporate plan and good budget management for the region. Council needs to have good policies and ensure that these poli-

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golf day last year which was big for us so we are going to keep that energy into the New Year.” The Mareeba Business Women’s Club has extended its thanks to existing committee members Rhonda and Tegan and give their thanks for the work they did whilst on the committee. For more information about upcoming events hosted by the Mareeba Business Women’s club head to their facebook page at www.facebook.com/mareebabusinesswomen

coordinator positions until those positions can be filled. Mareeba Business Women’s Club President Deborah Boardman is excited for the year ahead of the new committee. “I’m really excited and I know that my girls will back each other up in the year to come,” she said. “One of the big events we are looking forward to this year is International Women’s Day, plus some exciting days at the Mareeba Turf Club. “We had the Sarah Benstead

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You are not able to leave any child under the age of 12-years without supervision. It’s dangerous and you commit an offence of leaving a child unattended which has a maximum punishment of 3-years imprisonment. Police are reminding parents of these parking restrictions, so not only their children but all children attending the schools will be safe at drop off and pick up times. There will be ongoing traffic enforcement and Police make no apologies for adopting a zerotolerance approach to motorists who do the wrong thing in and around school zones. Don’t forget to remind your children about how to stay safe on and around roads and encourage them to use pedestrian crossings when available.

Cr Byrnes keeps everyone guessing

New President Deborah Boardman (front) is joined by vice President Anja Letz, Publicity Officer Angela Nason, Secretary Stacey Shaw, club Patron Cr Lenore Wyatt and Treasurer Rachelle Gray.

THE Mareeba Business Women’s Club has a new committee for 2020 with new President Deborah Boardman leading the charge. The new committee was voted in at the clubs annual general meeting last Monday night at the Mareeba Golf Club. Deborah Boardman is supported by Anja Letz as Vice President and Rachelle Gray as Treasurer. Stacey Shaw and Angela Nason are temporally filling in for the Secretary and Event Co-

vehicle. You can get out of your car to help children get bags from the boot and say goodbye but you must then get back into your vehicle and leave the zone. You have a maximum of 2 minutes only. “What do I do when the 2-min zone is full, and cars are double parked?” Those vehicles that are double parked are not only committing an offence but are acting in a dangerous manner as the roadway is blocked to all other traffic. Keep moving and drive around the block until you can safely pull into the zone without double parking on the road way or find an alternate parking space. “Can I leave my younger children in the car while I duck into collect my child from school?”

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cies are adhered to.” “To build a strong local economy it is essential that our ratepayer’s contributions are reinvested and recirculated back into our local businesses and industries as much as possible. This in turn creates more employment opportunities and builds strong economy for the region.” In a statement supplied exclusively to The Express, Councillor Byrnes hints at his unhappiness with the current TRC. “In my opinion the newly elected council will need to overcome the legacy associated with the rates debacle, the struggle with turning budgets back into surplus and dealing with ever increasing costs.” “Things are not going to be all rosy, the disasters around Australia could make external funding hard to obtain. I’m sure with the right attitude and a positive and sensible collective team of representatives that this council can move forward focusing on essential services and upgrades.” “It’s vital for rate payers in

all divisions to ensure suitable candidates are nominated to represent your division, recognising that agricultural, tourism and small businesses are the back bone of the TRC.” “I encourage people to attend monthly meetings occasionally to see how the system works.” Councillor Byrnes said he hoped to be able to announce his plans for 2020 and beyond in the coming weeks.

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PAGE 8 The Express, Wednesday, January 29, 2019

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The Express, Wednesday, January 29, 2019 PAGE 9

Croa

OPINION

With Phil Brandel @Philbrandel1

Why have we been abandoned? THERE’S a new political party pushing for North Queensland to become its own state. Normally these types of political parties get a few eye rolls and deep sighs from ordinary Queenslanders. While I may not agree with their main goal, I do understand their frustration. Here on the Tablelands, we have been abandoned by our elected politicians. First cab off the rank is Cynthia Lui, Member for Cook, whose office is out of her electorate and an hour away in Cairns. At the time of her relocation she told the Express “I will still continue to work hard

Investigations are continuing into an alleged burglary incident at a Mareeba residence on Saturday, January 18. Entry was allegedly gained to the unit by cutting a locked screen door sometime between 9.30pm on January 17 and 7.30am on January 18. The occupier has reportedly woken up on Saturday to find the unit had been broken into and her vehicle allegedly rummaged through. A report was subsequently made to police. It’s alleged that a quantity of cash was stolen from inside a vehicle parked at the address and a power tool stolen from a storage area. Inquiries resulted in detectives arresting and charging a 12-year-old Mareeba boy on Sunday. The boy has been charged with burglary and four other similar alleged offences as a result of investigations into burglaries from December and earlier in January. He will be dealt with according to the provisions of the Youth Justice Act 1992.  Investigations are con-

for the people of Mareeba by visiting regularly and holding mobile offices.” Since moving to Cairns, Cynthia has conducted one mobile office meeting on December 9 and the next one is planned for February 21. Nearly 3 months for Mareeba residents to see their local Member in their local area. “I firmly believe that the new office location will give all constituents better access to my office, so I can continue to deliver for all the communities throughout my electorate.” said Ms Lui. I’m not sure how having an office an hour away means she

can see more local constituents? Even Bob Katter can see the vacuum that’s been left by Cynthia Lui’s relocation (see page 3). Recently the Mareeba Shire council (MSC) was issued with a temporary local planning instrument (TLPI) from the state government. This means it will be near impossible for anyone to subdivide or develop a rural block that is less than 60 hectares. The Minister for State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning Cameron Dick made the decision last month without visiting Mareeba or the Cook Shire. He

also made the decision without any prior consultation with the Mayor, the MSC, Local Member Cynthia Lui or local residents. So did the Cynthia take arms against her Brisbane bosses? Did she ring the council to get their side of the story? Did she ask the Minister why she wasn’t consulted before hand? No, No and No. Instead she issued a statement that followed the party line “I support any actions that protect agricultural land and jobs in our region.” This is what Brisbane wants, but is it what local residents want? As Mayor Tom Gilmore said

“it’s less to do with planning and more to do with the Kuranda Range. This is a convenient way for the Queensland Government to avoid upgrading the Kuranda Range Road.” It’s obvious that State Government doesn’t want more people moving to the Mareeba Shire and putting more pressure on the Kuranda Range. This policy will stifle jobs growth, housing and local development. As for the Palaszczuk Government they’re happy to spend money in Brisbane. According to the Brisbane cross river rail website “The current rail network is already nearing capac-

ity… The $5.4 billion Cross River Rail project unlocks this bottleneck by delivering a second river crossing…”. Whereas the state government has only allocated $1.25 million for a safety audit on the Kuranda range which Barron River MP Craig Crawford said “At the end of this project we will have a very clear idea of what upgrades need to be done, where they need to be done and in what order they need to be done.” A similar report was done in 2003 and in 2017, and we are still waiting. No wonder some people want to boot Brisbane.

tinuing in relation to the alleged involvement of remaining suspects. Police have charged three young people after several alleged incidents in Mareeba since January 1. It’s alleged that an 11-yearold boy, a 12-year-old boy and a 14-year-old boy have attempted to break into three businesses in Byrnes Street on the evening of Sunday January 19, without success. It will further be alleged that they caused significant damage to the air-conditioning ducts of another business on Byrnes Street at about 2.30am on Monday morning (January 20) when they successfully entered the building. All three boys will be dealt with under the provisions of the Youth Justice Act 1992 after being charged with four counts of enter premises, five counts of enter premises, one burglary charge and one wilful damage charge and four counts of enter premises and one of wilful damage, respectively.  Police charged a man on last Tuesday following an al-

leged disturbance at a hotel in Kuranda. It’s alleged that at about 6.30pm on January 21, a 39-year-old Kuranda man was arguing and threatening another man at a hotel in Kuranda. Police and hotel management reportedly spoke to the man about his behaviour and he was instructed to leave the premises. It will be further alleged the man returned a short time later to the hotel, re-entering through another entrance. Officers located and arrested the man and he was transported to Cairns. The Kuranda man was charged with public nuisance, fail to leave licenced premises and possession of a knife in a public place. He is scheduled to appear in Mareeba Magistrates Court on February 10.  A 29-year-old Atherton man has been charged after he allegedly assaulted a police officer. Officers were called to an address on Walker Street, Kairi at 10.30am on 22 January in relation to reports of a man allegedly armed with a knife. Police located the man and he was subsequently taken into custody without incident. It will be alleged that while the man was in custody, he became aggressive and head-butted a police officer in the face.

The officer received minor injuries and returned to duties a short time later. The man has been charged with serious assault of a police officer and is scheduled to appear in the Atherton Magistrates Court on February 11.  As the wet season begins, police from Tableland’s Road Policing Unit (RPU) are reminding motorists to slow down when driving in wet conditions. Police from Tableland’s RPU have expressed concern after issuing several fines on January 22 during the heavy downpours. A 17-year-old Paddy’s Green boy was issued a $266 fine on Mareeba Dimbulah Road for allegedly overtaking vehicles on double white lines. Two motorists received $266 fines for exceeding the speed limit by 13km/h. Another five drivers received $177 fines for speeding in 60km/h zones. A 27-year-old Edmonton man was issued a $400 fine on the Kennedy Highway, Kuranda for allegedly not wearing a seat belt.  An elderly couple were taken to Mareeba Hospital after being involved in a double accident on Thursday January 23. The couple were reversing out of a car spot in Byrne St Mareeba at about 11 am when a car travelling down the same road collided with the back of

their car. It's believed the driver changed gears to roll forward after the collision, panicked and the car mounted the kerb, hitting part of the Central Realty shopfront. According to a spokesperson from Queensland Ambulance "Paramedics headed to the scene on Byrnes Street at 11.09 AM after reports of the accident.” “Two people were taken to Mareeba Hospital in a stable condition."  Police have picked up a man trying to illegally drive banned alcohol into the Kowanyama community. After receiving an anonymous tip off from Crime Stoppers, Senior Constable Donna Lynn and Senior Constable Ira Nordstrom found the suspect vehicle on Dunbar Road in the early hours of January 20. A search of the vehicle allegedly found 48 casks of five litre wine which was destined for the remote cape community. A 49-year-old Kowanyama man was charged with possession of liquor in a restricted area and is due to appear in Kowanyama Magistrates Court on February 10. Officer in Charge (OIC) of the Kowanyama Police Station Acting Senior Sergeant Lynda Thompson encouraged members of the community to contact the Sly Grog Hotline on

1800 500 815 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. “Sly grog in Kowanyama creates a massive increase on calls for service,” Acting Senior Sergeant Thompson said. “The disruption of this activity creates a safer environment for all community members.” If you have information for police, contact Policelink on 131 444 or provide information using the online form 24hrs per day. You can report information about crime anonymously to Crime Stoppers, a registered charity and community volunteer organisation, by calling 1800 333 000 or via crimestoppersqld.com.au 24hrs per day.

PHOTOof the week

The winner of the Tablelands and Surrounds Photography Group this week is... ADRIENNE MEREDITH

The theme was Bees. This photo was taken with a Nikon D500 and an AF-S DX Nikkor 18-300mm at 260mm. F5.6, ISO 1400, 1/2500 second. Love the small native Blue-banded bees in my garden. They seem to prefer blue flowers like those of this Geisha Girl plant.

Volunteers Sought - Interested persons please visit:

crimestoppersqld.com.au/volunteer

PAGE 10 The Express, Wednesday, January 29, 2019

ENTER YOUR PHOTOS VIA FACEBOOK @ Tablelands and Surrounding Photography Group

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Big fines on way for QLD road users Tilapia plague Tilapia in Lake Barrine. Photo by Timothy Sexton.

TIM Sexton claims that on a recent dive in Lake Barrine he noticed that “Tilapia fish were out of control and at plague proportions.” Tim who grew up on the Tablelands, has a Bachelor of Science in botany, biochemistry and molecular chemistry and a PhD in population genetics. He says “underwater it’s a catastrophe, there’s very few native fish, the water is all cloudy and we are allowing this fish to thrive.” After 5 dives at the lake in late 2019, he claims he saw “only one school of native rainbow fish.” “Not enough is being done, I rang a few of the government departments about the videos I took and they didn’t seem overly interested,” He says that he first dived the lake in 2013 and “the situation has gotten a lot worse.” A spokesperson from the Department of Environment and Science (DES) said: “QPWS coordinates volunteer spear-fishers to control numbers of Tilapia at Lake Barrine, which has been an annual

activity since 2014.” “At the last spearing event at Lake Barrine on the 14th of December 2019, a total of 594 tilapia fish were caught and removed from the lake. Since 2012-2013, 8,606 tilapia have been removed from the lake.” “Volunteers from the Cairns Underwater Association will conduct the next spearing event within the next two months, with Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) officers overseeing. Information such as number, size and location is recorded at each spearing event” Tilapia is an introduced species that reproduces rapidly, pushing out native species and degrading water bodies. It is now widespread in Queensland waterways. It’s believed that Tilapia may have arrived via a small creek, which allows outflows from Lake Barrine during high water levels. A spokesperson from DES said, “While it is unlikely to achieve total eradication of Tilapia from a waterbody like Lake Barrine, spearfishing offers an

effective and reasonably efficient way to keep the population in check.” “QPWS staff also spear Tilapia at Lake Barrine up to eight times a year during the breeding season. Speared Tilapia are disposed of through burying in an authorised pit on QPWS estate.” The DES has also tried other methods of eradicating Tilapia including: “electrofishing, line fishing, gill netting, fish traps and artificial egg-laying strata. None of these methods was successful in significantly reducing the tilapia population.” Timothy Sexton believes that there are more natural ways of controlling Tilapia such as “introducing Freshwater Crocodiles or Barramundi or natural native predators into Lake Barrine” Tilapia infestations have been reported in the Barron River catchment since 1986 and the Mulgrave-Russell catchment (Lake Barrine) since 2007. Please report any sightings of noxious fish on 13 25 23.

Douglas Shire Council moves away from using Roundup GLYPHOSATE is the world’s most widely used herbicide but there have been growing attempts around the world to stop its use. U.S. agrochemical giant Monsanto’s patent expired in 2000 and glyphosate is now produced by various companies and under different names. However, the most wellknown remains Monsanto’s weedkiller Roundup, which has been on the market since 1974. This week the Douglas Shire Council followed in the footsteps of Austria, Germany, France, Italy, the Netherlands and the Czech Republic, and has voted to ban the use of glyphosate in 133 public locations across the Shire, including playgrounds, footpaths and retail areas. The move comes after The World Health Organization’s International Agency for Research on Cancer found in 2015 that glyphosate is “probably carcinogenic.” So far billions of dollars in compensation have been awarded to US cancer sufferers who’ve sued Roundup maker, Monsanto, which is owned by Bayer. Late last year an Australian farmer launched legal action against Monsanto, claiming it caused his cancer. Douglas Shire Council Mayor Julia Leu said the strategy strengthened the organisation’s current efforts to move away

from glyphosate. “Council is acting on serious concerns about the use of glyphosate in public areas by building on the measures we have been working with since 2013,” she said. “For many years, our crews have been trialling different methods, from flame weeding to steam weeding to organic herbicides, in a bid to shift the organisation’s reliance away from glyphosate. “This strategy builds on the glyphosate ban we introduced north of the Daintree River and at playgrounds in previous years, as well as further encouraging investment in steam weeding technology for use in sensitive areas.” Julia Lea admits that the council will “still be using Roundup in remote areas away from the public” Other Far North Councils have differing views on the use of Roundup: Cook Shire Council Chief Executive Officer Linda Cardew Said “Council has moved away from herbicides and uses a steam weeder wherever possible. However the steam weeder has limitations and Council continues to use herbicide on occasion and strictly in accordance with the Safety Data Sheets.” The Mareeba Shire council told The Express “The Shire is 53,491 km². Roundup is the only cost-effective method for vegetation management.”

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

“Council continuously monitors the market for costeffective alternative methods of dealing with weeds. Council has no immediate plans to move away from using roundup as it is the most cost-effective method to deal with weeds. Council employees follow appropriate workplace health and safety requirements when dealing with any chemical or hazardous substance.” A statement from the Tablelands Regional Council said: “We use pesticides and herbicides that are proven to be effective and provide value for money. At the same time we trial new products and methodologies to improve effectiveness and reduce potential environmental and health impacts. Products and methodologies recently (or still being) trialled include – Steam weeding, BioWeed Organic, Slasher Organic Weedkiller, Slasher and Lynx mix. “We mostly use WeedMaster Duo, which is glyphosate-based, frog-friendly and registered for use in aquatic environments.” A spokesman for the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority said “we remain satisfied that APVMAapproved products containing glyphosate [the key ingredient in Roundup] can continue to be used safely according to label directions.”

QUEENSLANDERS caught using their mobile phones behind the wheel will face the toughest fines in the country from this Sunday, February 1. Anyone caught using a phone will be fined $1000 and drivers caught twice within a year risk losing their licence. The fine is more than double the current penalty of $400. A statement from the Department of Transport and Main Roads said: • From February 1, 2020, the penalties for illegally using a mobile phone while driving are increasing from a $400 fine and 3 demerit points to a $1,000 fine and 4 demerit points. • This is to help deter people from this dangerous behaviour. A driver's response time while texting on a phone is comparable to that of a driver with a blood alcohol reading of between 0.07 and 0.10. • The increased penalties mean that some licence hold-

ers, like learners and P-Platers, could lose their licence from just 1 offence. • Double demerit points will still apply to all drivers for a second mobile phone offence within 12 months. This is another $1,000 fine and 8 points and could cost most people their licence. • Bicycle riders will also be fined $1,000, but no demerit points will be issued. Driving while using a mobile phone held in your hand is illegal – even if you're stopped in traffic. This means you can’t: • hold the phone next to or near your ear with your hand • write, send or read a text message • turn your phone on or off • operate any other function on your phone. • Learner and P1 provisional drivers under 25 must not use hands-free, wireless headsets or a mobile phone's loudspeaker function. • Learner and P1 provisional drivers' passengers are also banned from using a

mobile phone's loudspeaker function. The current fine of $400 (3 penalty units) is also being retained for passengers of learners and P1 provisional licence holders under age 25 who illegally use a mobile phone’s loudspeaker function. Transport Minister Mark Bailey says Queensland will trial cameras already in use in NSW that are specifically designed to detect mobile phone use on the roads. “They are the toughest laws in Australia ... because this problem has been escalating,” he said. “I just can't accept the road toll – we've got to deal with this.” Mr Bailey says drivers already know they are breaking the law and risking lives by picking up their devices, and there's no need for a long lead-in time. “The safest thing for people to do is to change their behaviour right now because that means safer roads.”

Barron River

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The Express, Wednesday, January 29, 2019 PAGE 11

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Regional teens most likely to ride with drink drivers Teenagers in rural Queensland were dicing with death, after new RACQ statistics revealed the startling number who admitted to getting in the car with a driver they knew was over the legal limit. In regional Queensland 44 percent of Year 11 and 12 students surveyed during RACQ’s Docudrama program admitted to being a passenger with a driver they believed

was drunk, compared with 36 percent of metropolitan students surveyed. RACQ spokesperson Lauren Ritchie said it was a serious concern to see how many teens were putting themselves at risk. “A spur of the moment decision to get in a car with someone over the limit, can have devastating consequences,” Ms Ritchie said.

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“We know public transport, taxis and rideshare services aren’t as common in the country as they are in the city, but getting into a car with a drunk driver should never be considered your only option to get home.” Ms Ritchie said it was vital young adults felt empowered to speak up and get themselves out of trouble and encouraged family members to discuss 'no-questions-asked' phone call concept as an alternative. “We hope these statistics will prompt parents to speak with their kids about how to get home safely from parties,” she said. "Offering to pick up your children is one option parents should consider. We know any parent would rather take a phone call in the middle of the night than receive a knock on the door from emergency services. “Talk to your children about trusting their gut when it’s telling them something’s wrong. It’s so important they say or do something to remove themselves from a dangerous situation because it’s simply not worth dying to avoid embarrassment.”

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RACQ crowns Australia’s Best Cars 2019 Best Small Car under $35,000 – Toyota Corolla Ascent Sport

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RACQ has put the country’s most popular vehicle makes and models under the microscope to crown Australia’s Best Cars for 2019. Cars ranging from light cars to SUV were rigorously tested by RACQ, along with other motoring clubs across the country, for value for money, safety, design, function and on-road features. RACQ Head of Technical and Safety Policy Steve Spalding said Toyota was the biggest surprise and after several years of missing the mark had made a comeback taking out the top spot in five categories – two of those being hybrid models. “This marks an exciting shift in the world of motoring towards a cleaner and greener future, while still offering all the features we look for in a vehicle,” Mr Spalding. “It’s also the first time we’ve seen the humble Toyota Corolla make the list. We’ve also welcomed the resurrection of the Supra which has regained

the sports car status it was known for decades ago.” Mr Spalding said this year’s categories were an interesting insight into the current car market in Australia, with SUVs replacing the traditional family sedan as most popular vehicle type. “Aussie drivers love the flexibility and space of driving an SUV, whether that’s a small or large SUV,” he said. Mr Spalding said the Australia’s Best Cars competition was the nation’s most independent and consumerfocused assessment of the country’s newest vehicles on the market. “This list should be the goto guide for anyone shopping for a new car in Australia. Not only are these winners rated the best for value for money, looks and functionality - all of these vehicles are 5-star rated for safety,” he said. More information, including detailed reviews on all winning vehicles, could be found on RACQ’s website.

Best Sports Car $62,000 - $125,000 Toyota Supra GTS Best Family Wagon – Mazda CX-8 Sport Best Small SUV under $40,000 – Kia Seltos Sport FWD Best AWD SUV under $55,000 – Toyota Rav4 AWD GXL Hybrid Best AWD SUV $55,000 - $70,000 – Hyundai Santa Fe Highlander Best AWD SUV $70,000 - $125,000 – Volkswagen Touareg Launch Edition 3.0 V6 TDI Best 4X4 Dual Cab Ute – Toyota Hilux SR5

280 BYRNES STREET MAREEBA

P: 4092 1020 WE’RE LOCATED BEHIND 2 WHEELS & WEAR PAGE 12 The Express, Wednesday, January 29, 2019

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

EXPRESSyourself Member for Cook MIA THE estranged member for Cook Cynthia Lui as usual is missing in action when it comes to Mareeba, Dimbulah and Julatten areas which contrary to her naivety are in the electorate of Cook. It is hard to believe the Labor Party would accuse anyone of pork barrelling the electorates when we have a typical sample of Labor largesse right under our noses. Ms Lui has been busy in the welfare dependent sections of Cook where Kowanyama got $60,000 for a festival, $2.5m for a men’s shed, Cooktown football club $300,000 for change rooms, a $1.5m splashpool at Mapoon because the kids can no longer swim in any natural water or the sea because of the huge croc population, Coen got $550,000 for palliative care upgrade, Coen oval had an unknown amount spent on an upgrade and Lockhart River got several million for new airport terminal. Cynthia’s homelands of the Torres Strait fared even better with a $2.8m new fire station at Horne Island which I could run around in an hour, then a whacking $17m for primary heath care centres in

the Straits, Thursday Island TAFE $1.3m and Bamaga hospital staff quarters came in at $3.6m. Now for the highly populated area of Cook, in Mareeba we got $500,000 for an animal refuge and the community hub clawed $1m over two years. We did get $45m for an upgrade to the highway between Mareeba and Kuranda, which was not asked for because the dangerous Kuranda Range Road bottleneck will not be touched. Don’t find a need for dialysis at Mareeba Hospital, we don’t have a machine. Where are our local hospital boards? Maybe you could find help at the animal shelter. Keith Courte GOLDMINE CREEK

Seal the road, save the reef IN line with TRC council meeting on the 23rd January 2020 where new environmental legislation is forcing councils to regulate sediment run off I would suggest that if the state and federal government are serious about saving the reef that they consider injecting funds into our local governments to seal dirt roads. This, in turn, reduces

thousands of tonnes of sediment and gravel run off into our drains in rivers and reduces dust pollution. This would be far more beneficial than more research and just talking about what can be done. Owen Byrnes Tinaroo

The Mareeba SES is amazing LAST Thursday’s storm saw some major water damage to our home and because of the forecasted severe storms, we contacted the SES to see if some temporary assistance could be given us until permanent repairs could be completed. They came and secured tarps to our roof in a most methodical, professional and friendly manner. We have nothing but praise for their team! Thank you SES. George and Kay Mellick MAREEBA

KUR-World still not on I FELT that Tom’s letter of 18/12/19 in The Express could hardly be allowed to pass without some comment. Tom’s letter puts the view

Letters to the Editor EMAIL: editorial@theexpressnewspaper.com.au that the Kuranda Range Road is the reason for the canning of the KUR-World ‘pie in the sky’ project. It’s true that TMR has recognised that the Range road is already overcapacity. Apparently the scales have fallen from Tom’s eyes and he now sees this to be true. Something he could or would not see when anything KUR was being put before council. Even, I’m sorry to say hypercritically voting in favour of what no doubt will be the first Development Application for the KUR-World subdivision which cunningly is for 48 lots, just under the TMR trigger for referral of 50 lots. Of course the planned cumulative total will be whatever KUR-World want it to be. But its good news that Tom now appears to have his vision back and accepting of the fact that travelling the range is a real gamble so obviously no one should be making decisions that exacerbate the problem when solutions are so far into the future. Now that Tom has had his enlightenment I’m hopeful that those that follow him in the position of Mayor will also see and not ignore an obvious problem and ensure that all council approvals reflect

the 2009-2031 Regional Plan especially in respect to development in the Myola region. Ray Ganley KURANDA

TRC vision questionable AFTER reading the TRC state of the region vision I have become concerned about the following. Whose vision is it, The councillors, the ratepayers or the CEO and the council beaurocy. Sadly I think it is the CEO. He has clearly stated in his state of the region that councillors have very little influence on what the council does. Also he is of the belief that the councillors are not employed by the ratepayers. Having taken the Mayor to task over this he reluctantly appologised for making this statement, maybe the CEO needs to do the same. What is needed this time around is to look very closely at the candidates who are prepared to stand up to the beaurocy and make them do what the community demands unlike the current councillors with the exception of Owen Byrnes who does question the beaurocy. The remaining councillors and mayor appear to have let the beaurocy take control by

giving the CEO the power to spend up one million dollars without approval from the councillors. Another example the Carrington Rd pump station fiasco when the councillors were asked about the pump station site they said they knew nothing about it. This highlights who is running the council. I would suggest to these beaucrats if they are not prepared to work for the community maybe it is time for them to move on .I am sure if we pick the right council they wiil not be prepared to put up with this management team Granville Spencer ATHERTON

Change the date of Australia Day IT has long puzzled me that the date a boatload of criminals with their guards, set up camp on someone else’s land, beside a NSW beach was chosen as Australia Day. Australia Day celebrations need to include all Australians from the original Australians, the Aboriginal nations, to the latest migrants achieving Australian citizenship. M. Zehntner KURANDA

r u o r y e p b a a p s Gr w e n l a c : o l s n e o i u t tr a c o l g n i w o l l o f e at th MAREEBA: Mareeba News, Piagno’s News, Mareeba Discount Drug Store, Shell Mareeba Service Station, BP Mareeba, Mareeba IGA, Curcio’s Bakery, Mobil Service Station Mareeba, Termite, Portsmith Fuels, Biboohra Cash Store, Post Office Centre Mareeba, Mareeba Leagues Club and all good business outlets. ATHERTON: Summers News, Phillips News, Mobile Atherton, Fresh St. Market IGA, Puma Service Station Atherton, Atherton International Club, Atherton Bakehouse and Café on Louise. SOUTHERN TABLELANDS: Tolga News, Mobil Service Station Tolga, Cash Store Walkamin, Malanda Spar, Caltex Malanda, Marano’s Malanda, Tobin’s Millaa Millaa, Yungaburra Foodworks, Yungaburra Pit Stop, Kairi Store, Herberton News, Herberton 5 Star, Wondecla Roadhouse, Ravenshoe News, Ravenshoe Hiland Bakery, Foodworks Ravenshoe, Ravenshoe Information Centre, Marano’s Ravenshoe, Tall Timbers Roadhouse and Mt Garnet Post Office. KURANDA: Kuranda News, Kuranda Foodmart, Koah Service Station, Speewah Store, Kowrowa Cash Store and Kuranda BP Roadhouse.

ses s e n i s u b small s u o r e And num e Tablelands, h across t ninsula! Pe Gulf and www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

DIMBULAH: TGT Home Hardware, Dimbulah Post Office, Bendigo Bank, Dimbulah One Stop and De Lai Fuel Distribution. CHILLAGOE: Almaden Hotel, Chillagoe Post Office, Chillagoe General Store, Chillagoe Hotel and Post Office Hotel. COOKTOWN: Cooktown IGA, Cooktown News, Sovereign Hotel, Caltex Cooktown, Palmer River Roadhouse, Cooktown Hotel, Lakeland Downs Hotel, Lakeland Roadhouse and Lakeland Coffee House. MT MOLLOY: Mt Molloy Post Office and Mt Molloy Store. KARUMBA: Post Office Karumba, Karumba Pharmacy and Carpentaria Fuels. GEORGETOWN: Ampol Roadhouse, Midway Caravan Park and Georgetown Hospital. NORMANTON: One Stop Shop, Normanton Trader and Garden Café. MT SURPRISE: Post Office and Mt Surprise Service Station. CROYDON: Gulf Gate Roadhouse and Croydon General Store. EINASLEIGH: Post Office and Einasleigh Council. FORSAYTH: Store and Post Office and Goldfield Tavern. MOSSMAN: Port Douglas IGA and Mossman News. CAIRNS: Smithfield News (Shopping Centre) and Cairns Central Nextra News.

The Express, Wednesday, January 29, 2019 PAGE 13

ON IT AG ’S AI N!

KP MANGO COMPETITION WE’RE LOOKING FOR THE HEAVIEST KP MANGO (KENSINGTON PRIDE)

BROUGHT TO YOU BY FNQ GROWERS AND THE EXPRESS NEWSPAPER

IN THE REGION!

START GROWING YOUR MANGOES NOW!! COMPETITION OUTLINE:  The mango must be Kensington Pride variety only  Mango must be photographed on electronic scales clearly showing the weight  The Mango must be viewed by a member of The Express Newspaper team or Joe Moro from FNQ Growers  The mango must not be tampered with in any way  The competition is open to all farmers and budding farmers in the region  Prizes: 1st place $500 - 2nd place $300 - 3rd place $200  The competition will close on Wednesday February 29th, 2020  Winner will be announced at the end of the harvest season  The heaviest mango will be declared the winner  All mangoes will be retained by the Editor of The Express for verification and consumption

PAGE 14 The Express, Wednesday, January 29, 2019

LAST YEAR’S WINNER!

Last year’s winner: Kiara Cabassi pictured with Lindsay Rural Mareeba Manager Stephen Srhoj.

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

PROPERTY HOUSES l LAND l UNITS l INVESTMENTS l ACREAGE l FARMS l RENTALS

Durack 233 on 85 Moondani

*House and land are sold on separate contracts / Picture is an artists’ impression and may vary from the finished product / Not under construction-proposed for construction as an indication only.

Proposed house and land package at Amaroo Park PROPOSED house and land package on Lot 85 Moondani Avenue - 1134m2 residential house site with a generous 22 metre frontage, providing ample room for landscaping, shed and even a pool This exclusive Tropic Coast Homes design – the “Durack” features 233m2

impeccably designed floor plan, built to thorough standards. This unique, modern house and land package* offers plenty of space both indoors and out. An ideal family retreat and entertainers delight featuring generously proportioned open design.

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Multiple flowing living areas seamlessly merge with the alfresco entertainment area delivering a relaxed and balanced atmosphere. Contemporary interiors showcase the finest in fixtures & finishes, complimented by the designer kitchen, including a gener-

ous allowance for you to design your own kitchen to suit your own tastes. Four bedrooms serviced by two stylish bathrooms. The master retreat features a spacious WIR, with builtins in the other bedrooms. The family bathroom includes a bathtub, and sepa-

rate toilet. A terrific deal at $ 412,920 – Land price $118,500 for 1134m2 and House Price$294,920. TC Homes QBCC 1089966. Don’t forget if you are a first home buyer there is $15,000 available to qualified buyers.

The Amaroo Sales Centre is open every Tuesday through to Saturday, and any time by appointment. Visit us on www.amarooestate.com.au or call 0409 321 000 for more information. Amaroo – the place to live.

The Express, Wednesday, January 29, 2019 PAGE 15

PROPERTY

Start your investment here

Little ripper that makes the money THIS is the investors special with a proven track record of excellent rental returns. • Fully repainted inside • New floor covering • Updated kitchen • Rear Access • Two toilets • Single carport • Garden Shed • Fully fenced • Large laundry area If you are looking for an easy care hassle free investment to add to your portfolio

this is the perfect package for you.

Call exclusive agent Aurelia Rogato on 0418 183 555 for more information or drop into The Pink Building Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

– Rogato Real Estate office on Byrnes St. Keep up to date with the market trends on our Fb page or our blog www.rogatobros.com.au/ blog

25 Doyle St, MAREEBA $195,000 NEG EXCLUSIVE to Aurelia Rogato Rogato Real Estate 0418 183 555

Thinking about selling?

0 ,0 0 5 $2

Privacy and tranquility SEARCHING for privacy and tranquility? Look no further than 19 Leinster Drive, Mareeba. Located in Kenneally Estate and surrounded by quality-built homes, this home sits at the front of one of the larger blocks at 1,153 m2.

INDEPENDENT SECURE LIVING WITH A PRIVATE GARDEN

Find out where your property sits in today’s market by calling the experts

07 4092 2232

PAGE 16 The Express, Wednesday, January 29, 2019

Unit 1/2-4 Strattman Street, Mareeba • 2 Bedrooms With Built-ins • Open Plan Living • Large Kitchen With Plenty Of Storage • Fully Airconditioned • Walk To CBD • Exclusive Access To Private Courtyard

Aurelia 0418 183 555

4092 5255

Framed by flowering shrubs in the front yard, the home has a cool and relaxing open plan feel about it. The functional kitchen has a gas stove top and electric oven, a good-sized pantry and opens onto a light and airy dining and living area. Large sliding doors with security screens lead out onto a covered patio - a great space for enjoying a relaxing breakfast overlooking the well-established garden. There are two good sized bedrooms, one has a double mirrored built in robe, a large bathroom, extra large storage space in the internal laundry, covered parking space and ceiling fans throughout. Tiled flooring makes this a low maintenance home and ideal for anyone looking to get into the property market, perhaps a first home or for the down sizers who just Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

need a comfortable, easy care space to call home. Fully fenced, 1153m2 allotment is perfect for family and pets. • Two bedroom, one bathroom • open plan living • underground power, sewer and town water • Fully fenced allotment • 1153m2 allotment • landscaped gardens, garden shed • peaceful patio setting overlooking rear yard • undercover parking/carport For all enquiries and to arrange a private inspection, call exclusive agent Vince Costas at the Central Realty Mareeba office today on 0419 926 691.

19 Leinster Dr, MAREEBA $298,000 NEG EXCLUSIVE to Vince Costas Central Realty Mareeba 0419 926 691

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

PROPERTY

Room for the family and all the extras

ACREAGE STYLE LIVING

• QUALITY 4 BEDROOM + ENSUITE, PRESENTS “AS NEW” • TILED LIVING, CARPETED BRMS + BUILT-INS & S/SCREENS • 10.5M X 7.5M HIGH CLEARANCE SHED, BORE & IRRIGATION • FULLY FENCED 3018M2 ALLOTMENT VERY CLOSE TO TOWN

PRICE: $498,000 JOE 0417 700 468 WWW.JOETORRISI.COM.AU IF your looking for a high set home that offers multiple living areas, is centrally located and has all the extras you require then this is the one for you. This versatile family home has been tastefully updated and the result is modern living, effortless entertaining, freedom of space and a first class location with every convenience within easy reach. Features include: • Superbly situated on a 1012m2 colourbond privacy fenced allotment • Well maintained three bedroom plus two bathroom home - three bedrooms upstairs and two rooms plus 2nd bathroom, toilet and laundry downstairs • Upstairs area with alloy cladded exterior • Beautiful polished timber

flooring throughout the upstairs • Sizeable updated timber and laminex kitchen with walk-in pantry • Updated main bathroom • Split-system air-conditioned living area + bedrooms partly air-conditioned • Beautiful Breezes through the upstairs and full length balcony/deck • Fully enclosed downstairs area with full length patio/outdoor area • 5 bay powered colourbond shed with 2 roller door access and 2 open bays Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

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• 5kw solar power system on shed • Solar hot water • Centrally located within walking distance to all town facilities If you're looking for something that will fit the family and all the extras and have your heart set on a convenient location then you will need to inspect this unique property immediately. For further information or to arrange a private inspection please call exclusive agent Joe Torrisi on 0417 700 468. 246 Walsh St, MAREEBA $338,000 NEG EXCLUSIVE to Joe Torrisi Joe Torrisi Real Estate 0417 700 468

BUSHLAND LIVING/WEEKEND GETAWAY • 28.3 ACRES BACKING ONTO WALSH RIVER • PERFECT FAMILY GETAWAY • PRIVATE SWIMMING HOLE • BEAUTIFUL CAMPING SPOTS • SUBSTANTIAL AREA OF LEVEL, CLEARED LAND • NATURAL BUSHLAND SURROUNDS

PRICE: $240,000 NEG

JOE TORRISI 0417 700 468 The Express, Wednesday, January 29, 2019 PAGE 17

A Air Conditioning & Refrigeration B Blinds C