The Express Newspaper 4th March 2020 by Carlo Portella

EXPRESS The

Wednesday, March 4, 2020

Locally owned and proudly independent

• Leaders meet to discuss crime l PG 3 • Inland QLD road network makes the National Infrastructure Priority List l PG 3

Atherton CFN champions l PG 27

WOMEN INSPIRING WOMEN

Anja Letz, Ida Portella, Angela Nason and Cr Lenore Wyatt are excited to celebrate International Women’s Day.

As a region, we are proud and blessed to have strong women as leaders in business and community. With International Women’s Day to be celebrated this Sunday, we pay tribute to the women who have made and continue to make an enormous contribution to the betterment of our communities. As part of the celebrations locally, women will gather this Friday for the annual Mareeba Business Women’s Club, International Women’s Day lunch. The lunch will celebrate and inspire women from all walks of life with everyone encouraged to come along.

INSIDE:

Six page International Women’s Day feature showcasing the inspiring and diverse women in our community. P12-17

PHONE: 4096 7700

1911 Resta u ra n t

TRADING HOURS: MONDAY TO FRIDAY 8AM - 6PM SATURDAY & SUNDAY 8AM - 5PM

OPEN MONDAY - SUNDAY

MALANDA

Email: mail@sparmalanda.com.au

Friendly Atmosphere and Affordable Family Meals!

2-10 English Street, Malanda

Making Every Day Better!

PHONE 4096 7720

• Breakfast & Lunch: 10.00am-2.00pm • Dinner: Monday to Thursday 6.00-8.00pm Friday and Saturday 6.00-8.30pm

TAKEAWAYS AVAILABLE!

EXPRESS The

Locally owned & Proudly independent

(07) 4092 3464 186 Byrnes St, Mareeba

admin@theexpressnewspaper.com.au



www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

The team...

MANAGING EDITOR Carl Portella

JOURNALIST Phil Brandel

ADVERTISING MANAGER Natasha Srhoj

Nate Moule with Cowboys lock Jason Taumalolo at their trial match in Cairns last fortnight.

Nate powers on

MAREEBA’S Nate Moule has successfully returned from meeting Dr Teo in Sydney where he removed all of Nates new tumour. 3-year-old Nate had his fourth surgery in Sydney last fortnight on Wednesday and was discharged from the hospital that afternoon. Nates mother Katie said that Nate is recovering “exceptionally well.” “He’s doing amazing and has recovered exceptionally well,” she said.

Nate then flew home on Friday, 21 February just in time for him to catch the North Queensland Cowboys VS the Brisbane Broncos game at Barlow Park on Saturday night. Both the Cowboys and the Broncos locker rooms were open to Nate who got to meet the players, grab some photos and even get a signed Cowboys Jersey. Katie has expressed her gratitude to all the lovely messages of support from the public, friends and family.

Cruise on in

CADET JOURNALIST Rhys Thomas

ADMIN / ONLINE PRODUCER Natasha Burton

The Express is published by Portasea Pty Ltd, 141 Constance St Mareeba QLD 4880. ACN: 141 250 213 CIRCULATION 9,000 Printed by Townsville print centre 623-645 Flinders St Townsville QLD 4810

THE Atherton Men’s Shed will soon welcome the roar of classic cars from across the Tablelands with their very next Cruise-in night. The Atherton Men’s shed started in 2011 and since then they have had five Cruise-ins per year. This is where local mo-

toring enthusiasts get to show off their unique, antique, classic cars, trucks and motorbikes. The Cruise-in kicks off at 6pm Friday, March 6 and admission is free for whole the family. For more information email Atherton@mensshed.net

2020 Queensland Local Hero nominee Fari Rameshfar of Tolga.

The travelling greengrocer

LIVING in the outback has its challenges, loneliness, isolation, regular access to fresh fruit and vegetables. One Tablelands resident has been addressing these issues for outback farmers for over 30 years. Fari Rameshfar migrated to Australia from Iran in 1973, first living in Melbourne and then moving to the Tablelands in 1983. In 1989 Fari started delivering fresh fruit and vegetables to people in outback Queensland in his refrigerated truck. The day that Fari arrived was often referred to by locals as 'Fari' Day as locals from stations far and wide would patiently waited for the arrival of Fari and his fresh fruit and vegetables. Fari lives in Tolga and starts his weekly run at Mt Garnett, he used to deliver as far as Hugh-

enden and Julia Creek and all the communities in between, travelling up to 2000 kilometres per fortnight. “At first I started delivering to Charters Towers and then I started getting calls from other towns and properties to deliver fresh fruit and veggies and it grew from there. I was doing 6-7 days per week on the road” Inside Fari’s truck are eight tonnes of fresh vegetables and fruit like, lettuce, potatoes, bananas, tomatoes, onions and apples, he also carries milk, cheese, bread, smallgoods, newspapers — and special orders from customers who have contacted him with their requests. While most people Fari’s age would be contemplating retirement, Fari is still delivering to graziers and the Greenvale community, via the Oasis roadhouse at the Lynd junction, that’s a 600

kilometre round trip in one day This year Fari was finalist in the Queensland Local Hero awards which are part of the much larger ‘Australian of the Year' Awards. He was nominated by his long-time customers in the Greenvale district, where some families would need to make a 400-kilometre round trip to get fresh groceries if it were not for Fari's fruit truck arriving every week. Fari was not only nominated for his delivery work in outback communities but also his Baha’i faith which he says “My faith teaches me that serving humanity is like worship” “My customers nominated for me, as sometimes I’m the only person that they get to talk to all week.”

GET CARRIED AWAY WITH...

TUXWORTH & WOODS CARRIERS

SERVICING: • Cairns • Mossman • Port Douglas • Cooktown • Croydon • Normanton • Karumba • Coen • Musgrave • Archer River • Weipa  BODY TRUCKS  SEMI TRAILERS  REFRIGERATED VANS  DROP DECK TRAILERS

Regular interior cleaning of offices, commercial premises and homes. Includes fans, airconditioners, bathrooms and kitchens, and tile cleans

4035 4022

AFTER HOURS: 0418 183 399 • FAX: 4035 4021 25 REDDEN ST, CAIRNS • EMAIL: val@tuxworth.com.au

• Oven & BBQ Cleans • Builders Cleans • Bond/Move Out Cleans • Specialise in removal of water canker and mineral build up on most shower screens

Many other services, ask us, we provide free quotes so you know exactly what you will be paying!

CAELUM 0447 659 793 or 1800 1 JAMES PAGE 2 The Express, Wednesday, March 4, 2020

ESTABLISHED 1972

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Leaders tackle crime

ON Thursday, March 27 a large number of community groups came together to tackle the growing problem of youth crime within the Mareeba Shire. The Round Table meeting was chaired and convened by Member for Cook Cynthia Lui and was held at the Mareeba Council meeting rooms. Ms Lui said representatives from multiple agencies agreed today to work together to address community safety in a Community Action Alliance. “Today’s roundtable was a fantastic opportunity for us to come together and agree on real solutions to keep our families and young people safe,” she said.

“There are lots of practical ideas in the community, and a wealth of knowledge and experience in the community.” One of the findings from the meeting was to form a community group dedicated to tackling youth offending in Mareeba. A spokesperson told The Express “The meeting was very positive; there were a lot of positive and potential ideas that the Action Alliance will now have to investigate, before we can instigate.”

Ms Lui praised police in attendance for their efforts keeping the Mareeba community safe. “Local police outlined the

“Police also support a School-based Police Officer through the Police Citizens Youth Club (PCYC), who is delivering very positive results.” At the same time she acknowledged the great work being delivered by other Government DeROUNDTABLE: Community partments and the comleaders met last Thursday munity sector. to discuss increasing crime in the region. “I was truly heartened by the observation of one of the participants fantastic work they do running who pointed to what she saw as programs in the community to a great willingness in the room prevent youth offending,” she from all participants to really said. work together,” Ms Lui said.

“Many of the participants spoke of the need to support children into better behaviour by helping their families in their parenting role.” The organisations in attendance were – Mareeba Community Centre, Mulungu Aboriginal Health Service, Tablelands Community Justice Centre, Youth Empowered Towards Independence (YETI), Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, Child Safety, Education and Training, Health, Housing and Public Works, Queensland Court Services, Queensland Police Service including PCYC, Youth Justice and MSC Councillors were also in attendance.

Inland Queensland road network becomes national priority

THE strategic inland Queensland road network has been named as a nationally significant priority on Infrastructure Australia’s 2020 Infrastructure Priority List. This is a major achievement for the Inland Queensland Roads Action Project (IQ-RAP) and all 34 funding partners. The project covers nearly 70% of Queensland (16% of Australia) across 28 local government areas. Partners include the 28 local governments, five Regional Development Australia committees and RACQ The IQ-RAP vision is to increase the quality and accessibility of the inland Queensland

road network, contributing to Australia’s productivity, quality of life, safety and equity outcomes. Deputy Chair and Mareeba Shire Mayor Tom Gilmore said, “The recognition of the inland Queensland road network as being nationally significant is a major win.” “This is one of the most significant developments for the future growth and economic development of the area of Queensland from the Mareeba Shire to the New South Wales border and west of the Great Dividing Range. “As it will support all 28 local governments to bid for fund-

4095 4447

ing to upgrade roads and bridges of strategic importance to our local businesses and communities,” Cr Gilmore said. Infrastructure Australia’s Infrastructure Priority List is the authoritative list of nationally significant infrastructure investments Australia needs over the next 15 years. The Priority List provides independent, evidencebased advice to governments and industry on the projects that will most benefit Australia’s communities. “This outcome has taken no less than five years of hard work and advocacy at the highest level in the nation and I am extraordinarily proud to have been part

BIG WIN: Michelle Landry, Member for Capricornia, Tom Gilmore, Deputy chair IQRAP, Deputy Prime Minister, Michael McCormack, Jane McNamara, Mayor Flinders Shire and Deputy chair IQRAP, Glenys Schuntner, RDA and Senator Susann McDonald.

of it,” Cr Gilmore said. The submission summary is available to download via their

TABLELAND DISTRIBUTOR FOR:

H SEMI TRAILER PARTS H TRUCK PARTS H ACCESSORIES

(Easy B-Double access)

The Infrastructure Priority List will be available at www. infrastructureaustralia.gov.au

Passenger, SUV & 4WD tyres Latest wheel alignment equipment & mechanical services at all branches.

Free Delivery Service available to Mareeba! 18-20 Quilter Crescent, ATHERTON INDUSTRIAL ESTATE, TOLGA

website, under Inland Queensland Roads Action Project (IQRAP) (www.rdanwq.org.au).

FREE

FITTING AN D BALANCING

NOBODY BEATS OUR 4 STORE BUYING POWER Mareeba 4092 2290

Atherton 4091 1122

Malanda 4096 5300

Mossman 4098 1502

GUILFOYLE MAREEBA FUNERAL SERVICES Crematorium, Chapels and Memorial Gardens – “Burials & Cremations” Relieve your family of financial burden by applying for funeral cover with the people you trust. Guilfoyle’s Funeral Service Mareeba can offer you full and immediate cover with speedy hassle-free claims and a lifetime cover with a “Sureplan” family fund Funeral Bond. It’s like a term deposit. Talk to the friendly experienced staff at Guilfoyle’s Funeral Service Mareeba today or call to 45 Constance Street for details on “Sureplan” family fund Funeral Bonds.

PHONE: 4092 1013 www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

“Entrusted by families for over 70 years”

mbaguilfoyle@bigpond.com The Express, Wednesday, March 4, 2020 PAGE 3

Atherton man to shave hair after 7 years

Takuro Stevens will ‘Shave for a Cure’ on Friday, March 13.

ATHERTON’S Takuro Stevens hasn’t had a haircut in over seven years. Last time he cut his hair was for Shave for a Cure in 2013. After complaining to his wife how hot he was, he is set to shave off his hair again for a good cause. “My wife actually prefers me with long hair, but after all my complaining she said ‘why not shave it off again,” he said. Takuro will shave off his hair

at the BWS drive through in Atherton on the Friday, March 13. “We are going to do it at 1pm, so people can pop in, grab a sausage sizzle and watch me get my head shaved,” “I raised $500 dollars for Shave for a Cure in 2013 and I would like to beat that amount this time. Takuro’s children will also be in for a shock.

DEAN MINEALL

“My seven-year-old son has never seen me without long hair, so it’s going to be an interesting experience for him. “I’ve measured my hair in a plat and it is 40cm from hair tie to hair tie, it hangs down to my belly button and I will also be donating my hair.” Tukuro said he is raising money as one of his friends was diagnosed with Leukaemia 20 years ago.

“At the time I couldn’t do anything to help, I felt quite hopeless, but now I can do something, so I’m hoping to raise as much money as I can for the Leukaemia Foundation.” Takuro’s shave will take place at BWS Atherton located at 90 Main Street at 1pm, with a gold coin donation to watch and gold coin donation for a Sausage sandwich with meat donated by Cross Custom Meats.

St Stephens Catholic College new principal, Kerry Manders.

for Mareeba Shire Councillor Local physio puts his hand up for MSC elections.

My wife and I have lived in Mareeba for the past two years and both enjoy the sense of community and welcoming spirit. So I have decided to run as an independent candidate for Council and coming from a professional background where critical thinking is vital and common sense must be applied to get things done, I offer my services to the voters of the Mareeba Shire. Authorised Dean Mineall 124 Coronet Drive Mareeba Qld 4880. for Dean Mineall Candidate.

PROFESSIONAL CRITICAL THINKER COMMON SENSE

14th March, 2020 HOT TUCKER Pig On A Spit

LIVE BAND THE BRAZILIANS

From 4.30pm till late

(07) 4092 4099 0419 715 285

College welcomes new principal

ST Stephen’s Catholic College in Mareeba has welcomed a brand new Principal for 2020 and less than four weeks into the job Kerry Manders is enjoying her move to the region. “Mareeba is a wonderful place – it’s the most beautiful part of the country. The people are friendly and caring, you can’t not like it,” she said. Principal Manders was born in Brisbane and grew up in Townsville and so far what she has seen at Saint Stephens has been pleasing. “We have a lot of kind, hardworking students, who are very friendly and welcoming and our staff are exactly the same,” Ms Manders has been Teaching for over 31 years and has seen some major changes affecting teenagers in that time. “The world around teenag-

ers has changed, people are still human, but these days teenagers are hyper connected to each other with technology, but there’s also a disconnection. “Some teenagers are on their computers all day, but they are missing out on important time with their family and sport and the outdoors. “What we try to teach is computer skills but at the same time, the ability to still have real relationships and communication.” The principal also points out several differences between students in Brisbane and Mareeba. “The main difference is the distance the students travel. On the Tablelands some students are getting up at dawn to make it to school. That shows real dedication and they all arrive with a smile on their face.”

COMMUNITY UPDATE - COMMUNITY UPDATE - COMMUNITY UPDATE COMMUNITY UPDATE - COMMUNITY UPDATE - COMMUNITY UPDATE COMMUNITY UPDATE - COMMUNITY UPDATE - COMMUNITY UPDATE

RATE NOTICES The half-yearly rate notices for the sixmonth period ending 30 June 2020 have been issued. The discount period closes on Friday, 13 March 2020. If you have not received your rate notice, contact Council on 1300 308 461.

REGISTRATIONS OPEN Nominations are now open for the annual Great Wheelbarrow Race. The three-day endurance event will begin in Chillagoe on Friday 15 May and finish in Mareeba on Sunday 17 May 2020. Register now at www.greatwheelbarrowrace.com.au. Registrations close 1 May 2020.

WEED MANAGEMENT

TRANSFER STATION UPGRADE

OVERGROWN PROPERTIES

Parthenium is an invasive weed that has the ability to dominate pasture lands, orchards and lifestyle blocks. It is a major environmental weed and transmits adverse health effects to humans, domestic pets and animals via contact with sap and pollens from the plant. It will cause contact dermatitis, asthma and hay fever. To report suspected parthenium sightings, call Council on 1300 308 461.

Stage one of the Mareeba Transfer Station upgrade has been completed with the public and contractor trucks now utilising the new drop off and loading areas. The $1.5 redevelopment will improve the facility’s capacity to deal with waste and make it more user-friendly for residents. The project will include a new layout to accommodate bulk waste collection, additional transfer bins and more space for recycling. Works are anticipated to be completed by late March, weather permitting.

All residents have a responsibility to keep their properties neat and tidy to reduce health risks and potential fire hazards, to remove places for vermin to breed and to improve the appearance of our community. If a property is found to be overgrown, a compliance notice may be issued to the owner requiring the overgrown vegetation to be removed and land maintained in the future.

RESEALS PROGRAM Council is continuing to carry out the scheduled reseal and asphalt programs across the Shire.

1300 308 461

PAGE 4 The Express, Wednesday, March 4, 2020

info@msc.qld.gov.au

www.msc.qld.gov.au

ROAD SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS Works are progressing well to improve safety and traffic flow along Anzac Avenue in Mareeba. To cater for increasing traffic through the intersection of Anzac Avenue and Ceola Drive, turning lanes will be added to allow entry into Ceola Drive, reducing congestion in both directions. Both lanes and the intersection will remain open during the construction phase.

Call into our customer service centres in Mareeba (65 Rankin Street) or Kuranda (18-22 Arara Street)

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Invasive worm fears for region Fall armyworm larva feeding on maize.

LAST Thursday the Queensland Government convened an urgent industry roundtable to discuss managing the serious threat posed by the exotic Fall armyworm. The round table took place in Brisbane and was available via teleconference to industry stakeholders. The fall army worm, a mothlike caterpillar originally from the Americas, has now been confirmed in a maize crop near Georgetown, 300 kilometres west of Cairns. This detection follows recently confirmed detections on two Torres Strait Islands and in Bamaga on the tip of Cape York. Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries Mark Furner said “This is disappointing but not entirely unexpected after recent detections in the Torres Strait and at Bamaga,” “It means the pest is likely to be widespread across northern Australia and eradication is therefore not possible. “After the drought, bushfires and floods, this is the last thing our producers need but we must tackle it with all available resources.” Fall armyworm is an invasive moth that feeds on hundreds of plant species, including maize, rice, sorghum, sugarcane and wheat, other horticultural

crops and cotton. It can fly up to 500 kilometres and has spread quickly around the world. Katter’s Australian Party Leader and Traeger MP Robbie Katter has warned Australia is facing a potentially “cataclysmic” biosecurity threat, with confirmation a dangerous exotic pest with the ability to wipe out agricultural crops has arrived and is spreading across mainland Australia. Mr Katter said the news was sending shockwaves through the agricultural industry, and there were growing concerns the worm’s tendency to eat more than 350 crop species including corn, wheat, rice, sugarcane and vegetables could threaten local food security. Mr Katter said it was infuriating Biosecurity Queensland was only now reacting to the pest’s arrival, with an emergency roundtable meeting. “In the past the Fall army worm has been known to reduce crop yield by 50 per cent,” he said. “Biosecurity Queensland’s failure to prepare for what is coming instead of reacting once it gets here is a clear symptom of the state’s weak biosecurity protections, which are a result of continued ignorance from policy-makers in Brisbane. “Biosecurity in Queensland

is grossly under-funded, and we are seeing constant reductions in the number of staff who are actually on the ground identifying problems before and when they arrive. Mr Katter said, since growers have had little to no time to prepare for the Fall army worm’s arrival, insecticides would likely be their only defence in controlling the infestation in the shortterm. “I understand control work on the most recent Fall army worm infestation located on the Gilbert River cost 10 times more than the usual insecticide costs for controlling the pest load on maize.” Mr Katter said the use of insecticides could have been greatly reduced had there been a more proactive approach and better planning regarding a local infestation, including more research on the use of natural predators. “Investigations could have also been well-advanced on possible biological control options to form part of a more integrated approach in the longer term, but instead we continue to keep playing the catch-up game,” he said. FNQ Growers Chair Joe Moro agrees “We need a very strong Bio-security system and there have been substantial cuts to funding over the years,” “It continues to highlight the importance of making sure that we pick up pests early, so that we can eradicate them before they become a major problem.” According to the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, traps have been established at Coen, Mossman, Port Douglas, Cairns, the Atherton Tablelands and Innisfail, and a taskforce has been established to ensure effective and up-to-date communication with industry. For information about onfarm biosecurity measures to protect crops from pests and diseases, visit farmbiosecurity. com.au Industry and the public are urged to report suspect detections of Fall armyworm moths and larvae to the national Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881. For more information, including pictures and how to identify fall armyworm, visit Biosecurity Queensland.

CLEALL’S BUTCHERY

Disaster Centre tours for locals THE Tablelands Regional Council (TRC) is giving locals the chance to look over new Community Education and Disaster Coordination Centre. “We are running a series of tours for the next couple of months so the community has a chance to look at this great new facility and understand its critical function in our community,” said Mayor Joe Paronella. The next tour day is set for Wednesday, March 25 at 9am and 9.30am. For a full list of dates visit www. trc.qld.gov.au – bookings are not required.

THIS WEEK’S SPECIALS WHOLE BUDGET RUMPS (Sliced) ................................... $11.99 KG WHOLE PRIME RUMPS (Sliced)...................................... $13.99 KG WHOLE PRIME RIB FILLETS (Sliced) ..............................$23.99 KG CORNED BRISKET .......................................................... $11.99 KG PORK LOIN CHOPS ......................................................... $16.99 KG RIB ROASTS .................................................................. $12.99 KG BBQ STEAK ................................................................... $17.99 KG CRUMBED STEAK .......................................................... $17.99 KG BEEF SAUSAGES............................................................ $11.99 KG BEEF MINCE .................................................................. $11.99 KG BEER STICKS ................................................................. $18.99 KG SPECIALS AVAILABLE NOW IN STOCK: WHILE STOCKS LAST! BEEF JERKY... $8.00 PER 100 GRAMS COUNTRY ORDERS SMOKED PORK CHOPS... $15.99KG WELCOME!

75 BYRNES STREET, MAREEBA PHONE & FAX ORDERS WELCOME PH: 4092 1006 ~ FAX: 4092 3353

SMOKEHO U SPECIALS SE ALSO AVAILABL E!

Meet our people working hard to make everything easier for you

NIKKI CABASSI

Nikki is 6 months into her training. She has participated in many services over the last few months with rave reviews from families. Nikki will join our new extended Tablelands team as we will soon be opening our new Atherton ofﬁce where staff are getting ready to join the team. Nikki is happy to report that her work with Community Funerals is one of the most rewarding things she has ever experienced.

COMMUNITY FUNERALS Community Spirit

4092 4774

www.communityfunerals.com.au

Inspirational, affordable & authentic farewells that pay tribute to lives well lived

LUNCH SPECIALS 10 CHOICES - ALL $11.90 EACH!

LUNCH TIME ONLY!

WIN 1 of 7 Mars Titan Camper Trailers Simply Purchase a Meal, purchase one of the selected brands below over the bar, or spend $15 in the Hotel’s Drive-Thru on any of these products to receive an entry into the draw!!

Promotion ends Sat 28 March.

~~~ DAILY SPECIALS ~~~

MAD MONDAY

MONSTER THURSDAY

THAI TUESDAY

SATURDAYS

STEAK WEDNESDAY

PASTA SUNDAY

Chicken Schnitzel 300g with Monster Crumbed Steak 400g ......... $16.50 Free Toppers: Parmi, Graham, PIZZA FRIDAY Hawaiian or Garlic Prawn ................... $16.90 House made Pizzas .............................. $15.00 Choice of two curries ........................... $15.00 KIDS EAT FREE!

250g Rump with Steak Topper ....... $22.90 Pasta Buffet ............................................$18.00

MONTHLY FOOD SPECIAL

ONSITE WELDING

• General Fabrication • All Types Of Welding • Sheet Metal Work

QBCC No. 1275266

• Lathe & Milling Machine • Tungsten Hardfacing

124 Mason Street, Mareeba  (07) 4092 2433 • Fax (07) 4092 3126

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

KING PORK CUTLET

THIS WEEK’S SPECIAL Jim Beam and Cola Cubes 24 Pack Cans: $83

Served with Ranch Slaw, Hasselback Potatoes and Plum Sauce.

Available at Cellarbrations Bottleshops: Centre Cellars Mareeba, Mareeba Plaza Cellars and the Graham Hotel Drive Thru.

187 Byrnes St, Mareeba P: 4092 2588



FARM MACHINERY REPAIRS

$5 DISCOUNT VOUCHER Friday Night CHARGRILL (Bring in voucher to redeem.)



The Express, Wednesday, March 4, 2020 PAGE 5

PAGE 6 The Express, Wednesday, March 4, 2020

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Three in running for TRC top job THE upcoming Tablelands Regional Council (TRC) elections are shaping up as one of the most competitive in living memory with 15 people putting their hand up for a councillor position’s and another three running for mayor. One of the locals running for Mayor is former TRC councillor Rod Marti, who was previously a Division 4 councillor, he also ran for Mayor in 2016. Mr Marti said one of the biggest issues facing TRC was the delegation of authority to senior officers. “Senior officers within the TRC are calling the shots. It looks to me like councillors aren’t overseeing what is happening, senior officers are running the show and the councillors aren’t applying checks and balances,” said Mr Marti. “I think there needs to be a new deal between the new council and senior staff. What’s happening now is not really reflecting the community’s needs, councillors are being bypassed and the communities needs are not being understood, because councillors aren’t making key decisions. Mr Marti also says the TRC has a budget problem. “Look at Mareeba and TRC Councils, as far as population goes they’re of a similar size, but I’m sure TRC staffing wise, is a hell of a lot bigger. “When you look at the percentage of revenue being paid to staff, I would like to see that

changed to be line with councils of a similar size” Millstream local Ken Carey is also throwing his hat into the council ring albeit for the very first time. “My wife and I have called the Tablelands home since 2012, moving to Millstream after residing in Cairns since 1999,” he said. “My background is a combined 29 years’ service with the Royal Navy and Royal Australian Navy.” Mr Carey believes that water is the biggest issue facing the TRC. “Water portability, security and the collapse of the water infrastructure is the biggest challenge facing the TRC at the moment. “The health of locals should come first, some people in the shire have been on a boil water notice since mid-2017, we have been told that it will take at least five to ten years to get fixed and to me that’s unacceptable. “By fixing the water problem we will be able to attract more people to the area. “Tourists aren’t visiting the area because you can’t drink the water. We have lost the grey nomads because they can’t fill their tanks up.” Mr Carey said he would also like to encourage more industry to come to the area “like a juvenile correction centre, a hemp processing plant and a thermal energy waste plant.” The third contender for the

top job at TRC is current Deputy Mayor Katrina Mellick, who has just completed her first term as a councillor and she admits it was a very steep learning curve. “I’ve learnt that you can’t please all the people all the time, you can only do your best and how important it is to gather as much information as you can before making any decisions,” said Councillor Mellick. Councillor Mellick says there are quite a few challenges facing TRC at the moment. “I think confidence in the community is one of the challenges we face. “I want to focus on growing confidence, in terms of confidence as a region. I believe Council plays a pivotal role in this. “I believe confidence will come through strong and experienced leadership. Communication is essential in this and through mutual respect and trust, confidence will grow; we need to continue to consolidate our foundations in order to forge our future.” According to Councillor Mellick another area that TRC needs improvement on is communication. “To make sure that the work that is being done is communicated and also that the needs of the communities are being taken on board and being worked with.” Another issue plaguing the TRC is the lack of asset registration.

OPEN from 10:00am TILL LATE

Day & Night Racing

Multiple Screens Complimentary Punter Snacks every Saturday

Becci Nethery Friday 6th March from 6.45pm

Grace Davis

Saturday 7th March

Mareeba Leagues Club PH: 40922922 Visitors Welcome Free Entry

TEX GUN SUP SUPPLIES PLIES 13 PALOMINO AVENUE, TOLGA

“We have had amalgamation, we have had de-amalgamation, we have half a billion dollars’ worth of assets, we have inherited asset registers from three former councils, there’s also the condition of some of those assets. “It’s not as easy as doing an inventory in a shop, its quiet complicated; unfortunately it’s not as simple as it sounds.” TRC residents have 24 days to decide before they vote.

• FIREARMS IN ALL CATEGORIES • AMMUNITION AND RELOADING EQUIPMENT • SAFES, TARGETS AND ACCESSORIES • SMOKERS AND ROTISSERIE SPITS • QLD WEAPONS SAFETY COURSES P: 4095 5383 • E: shop@texgun.com.au W: www.texgunsupplies.com.au ~~~ MAIL ORDERS WELCOME ~~~ ADVERTISEMENT

ROD MARTI For MAYOR

Council’s officially in caretaker mode FOLLOWING the formal announcement by the Electoral Commission Queensland of the Local Government elections on 28 March, all local governments are now in caretaker mode. Both the Tablelands Regional Council (TRC) and the Mareeba Shire Council (MSC) have made public statements about how council will work in the interim. Tablelands Regional Council CEO Justin Commons said “During this time most of our business will continue as usual “We just won’t be able to

make major policy decisions; make, amend or repeal local planning instruments; or distribute communications that help the campaigns of current Councillors that are standing for reelection. “The rules are very clear and are detailed in our Caretaker Period Policy,” he said. A Statement from the MSC said “Council reaffirms its commitment during a caretaker period to – the efficient continuation of Council's day to day business, transparent actions and decision-

making, actions that do not, or cannot be perceived to, bind an incoming Council in its operational delivery, the suspension of major policy decisions, the neutrality of Council officers and the continuation of the principle that the use of public funds for electoral purposes is unacceptable.” A local government must not make a major policy decision during the caretaker period Any contracts made pursuant to an invalid major policy decision are void and Council may

be liable to any person who suffers loss or damage as a result of a void contract. Such persons have the right to bring court proceedings against Council. Official correspondence must not be entered into by any Councillor during caretaker period that makes future policy commitments that could bind an incoming Council. The election will be conducted by the Electoral Commission of Queensland on March 28. You can check your enrolment details at ecq.qld.gov.au

POSITIVE CHANGE Email: rodmarti442@gmail.com Mobile: 0417 194 660 rodmartiTRCmayoralcandidate Authorised by Rod Marti of 422 East Barron Road, Atherton

WANTED 25 PEOPLE

for FREE trial* of INVISIBLE hearing aid ^

SoundLens Synergy iQ is the first custom-fit invisible-in-the-canal^ hearing aid that is: • completely wireless • easy to use • customised for comfort • clear natural sound.

DON’T MISS OUT – CALL TODAY! *terms and conditons apply

Main Clinic Address Other 000locations: Smith St, Suburb 3/3 Cook St, Atherton www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Cairns, Smithfield, Mareeba, Innisfail and Tully

Individual results may vary

4091 1689 audiohealth.com.au

The Express, Wednesday, March 4, 2020 PAGE 7

UPDATED PLANNING PROVISIONS PROTECT RURAL LAND

ural land and agricultural industry jobs continue to be protected in Mareeba Shire under the temporary local planning instrument introduced by the Queensland Government in December 2019.

Primary industry, including agriculture, is the largest employer in Mareeba Shire and the temporary local planning instrument (TLPI) is preserving agricultural productivity across the region. The rural zone in the shire is, among other things, meant to support the agricultural industry, and aims to ensure lots are large enough to remain productive and viable. However, Mareeba Shire Council has been approving development

applications for subdivisions less than 60 ha in the rural zone, with no community consultation.

Not only does this go against the council’s own adopted planning scheme, but it also goes against the longstanding Far North Queensland Regional Plan. If continued, fragmented subdivisions in rural zones in Mareeba Shire could risk the viability of the agricultural industry in the region. This concern was raised with the council in 2018 and when the council continued to approve subdivisions that were inconsistent with both their planning scheme and the regional plan the state government had no option but to act.

The TLPI ensures future rural subdivisions in Mareeba Shire are in line with the Far North Queensland Regional Plan and the intent of the rural zone within Mareeba Shire Council’s own planning scheme.

This means a robust assessment is undertaken against relevant state planning interests and council’s planning scheme. The steps to develop rural land in Mareeba Shire remain unchanged,

with landowners needing to seek development approval from council. If proposed lots are less than 60 hectares, the application will go out for public consultation.

The TLPI applies for up to two years, during which time council is expected to amend its planning scheme to reflect the strengthened provisions of the TLPI.

INVESTED IN

QUEENSLAND

Find out how we’re invested in growing Queensland at qld.gov.au/investedinqld Connect with us @GrowingQld

Authorised by the Queensland Government, William Street, Brisbane. PAGE 8 The Express, Wednesday, March 4, 2020

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Outgoing councillor throws support behind Bensted

ENDORSEMENT: Outgoing MSC Deputy Mayor Alan Pedersen is supporting 2020 council candidate Locky Bensted.

RETIRING Mareeba Shire councillor and deputy mayor, Alan Pedersen has thrown his support behind newcomer and councillor hopeful, Locky Benstead. Cr Pedersen has been with the Mareeba Shire Council for the past 15 years, and last year announced that he would be stepping down. Locky has a deep rooted history in Mareeba, being a suc-

cessful business owner and having experience with politics and parliament while he was still in high school. Cr Pedersen who has been a staple for Mareeba Shire Council for many years, believes that Locky has many of the same beliefs and ideas as himself. “Locky has got very similar principals and beliefs that I’ve got; promoting businesses in the town, supporting the growth of

the town,” he said. “I’ve been chasing him around for a number of years to get into council but now seems like the best time. “I’d like to think that Locky will be filling in the shoes that I will be leaving behind and on top of that he’s got a lot of youth on his side so hopefully we will get a couple of terms out of him.” Cr Pedersen and Locky have interacted numerous times outside of politics, announcing for rodeos across the Far North, a passion they both share. At 34 years old, Locky has seen Cr Pedersen as a mentor and is happy to be stepping into the shoes that he left behind. “It’s a big honour to have Cr Pedersen come out and support me like this, Alan has been asking me to run for a while now but it’s all about timing with these sorts of things,” Locky said. “You always need to give these sorts of things 100% of your effort, not 80%. “If Alan wasn’t stepping down I probably wouldn’t be running because I believe that what Alan has been doing has been the right thing for the last 15 years. Locky believes that the shire is “on the right track, but with a pair of fresher, younger eyes I am always looking for ways to improve and develop the shire for all its residents.” For more information on the upcoming Local Government Elections head to www.ecq. qld.gov.au/elections/electionevents/2020-local-governmentelections. Elections are on March 28, voting is compulsory.

Mayoral candidates do lunch

LAST Friday rotarians, business people and interested residents gathered at the Mareeba Leagues Club for the monthly Mareeba Rotary in Business lunch. The more than 40 in attendance had the opportunity to listen to speeches from the two Mareeba Shire mayoral candidates and meet with the councillor candidates as they make the sprint to the local government elections in March. Pictured is mayoral candidates Nipper Brown and Angela Toppin with event co-ordinator Rachelle Parker.

LOCKY BENSTED cillor

For Mareeba Shire Coun

Fresh Enthusiastic Innovative

0408 871 420

Locky Bensted - Candidate for Mareeba Shire Council 2020

AUTHORISED BY: L. Bensted, 503 Emerald End Rd, Mareeba QLD 4880 for Locky Bensted (Candidate).

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

The Express, Wednesday, March 4, 2020 PAGE 9

Now Open At Mareeba Industrial Park CORNER OF MARTIN TENNI & THORA CLELAND DRIVES PRODUCE LINES EX MAREEBA AND TABLELANDS: • Mangoes • Avocadoes • Bananas • Longans • Lychees • All Citrus • Other Exotic Fruits

PHONE: 4092 0400

CONTACT JASON ADAMS - M: 0448 684 446 E: managermba@blenners.com.au

Best hairdresser goes to Sorella sisters THE birthday celebrations continue. To celebrate our tenth year of providing free and independent news, The Express been searching for the best of the Tablelands and for the past week we tasked readers with telling us who the “Best Hairdresser” is on the Tablelands Sorella Hair and Beauty Studio were awarded the honour of the “Best Hairdresser” on the Tablelands. Sorella Hair and Beauty Studio owners Hannah Chilcott and Nicolle Murray were over the

BORGO SALAMI (LISMORE, CASALINGO, FRIULANO, ITALIAN & VENETO)



SELL $24.99 KG

moon when announced as the winners “It feels amazing, we work really hard to give our clients the best that we could possibly give,” Hannah said. “It’s really nice to know all our hard work and devotion has paid off.” The sister team believes that their attention to detail and devotion to satisfying their clients every need is the key to their success. “We are both big time perfectionists so we don’t want any of our clients walking out with anything less than perfect,” Nicolle said. “We are able to look after our clients well with both the hair and beauty being offered in the same place.” Sorella Hair and Beauty Studio offers its thanks to all its loyal customers who come back

PHOTO of the week

AVAILABLE FOR 7 DAYS ONLY AT:

CORNETT’S MAREEBA

Commencing 4th March - Ends 10th March

vehicle starts need a service or to replace some parts? Vote now on our Facebook page or on 4092 3464 or email us at editorial@theexpressnewspaper.com.au. Winners will be announced Monday, March 9.

ON February 22 and 23, the Mareeba Art Society held a workshop at their centre in Mareeba. Participants enjoyed the two day ‘pen and ink’ wash workshop that was run by accomplished artist and tutor Penelope Gilbert-Ng from Brisbane. The workshop was made possible thanks to an RADF grant from the Mareeba Shire Council and the State Government.



time and time again to get their hair done and their dedicated staff. This week we are looking for the best ‘Mechanic’ on the Tablelands. Where do you go when your

Arts workshop success

PEACH HALVES IN SYRUP SELL $4.99 JAR

PECORINO LOCAL CHEESE SELL $13.99 KG

WINNERS: The Sorella Studio team.

The winner of the Tablelands and Surrounds Photography Group this week is... JUDY TAYLOR

The theme was Be My Valentine. “This image was quite easy to achieve, taken indoors using a book, a ring (a plain band) and a torch. This image was taken with a Nikon Coolpix P900. Camera Setting – F- Stop: F/3.2, Exposure: 1/50 sec, ISO: 100, No flash, Editing: Image was slightly cropped. ENTER YOUR PHOTOS VIA FACEBOOK @ Tablelands and Surrounding Photography Group

MARCH BUSINESS LUNCHEON – Election Luncheon with the 2020 Mareeba Shire Council Candidates –

Come and hear from your local candidates THURSDAY 12TH MARCH, 2020 l MAREEBA UNITED FOOTBALL CLUB l 12noon-2pm $30 Members & $35 Non Members (two course lunch)

Mareeba Chamber of Commerce P: 4092 6050 E: www.mareebachamber.com.au

BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL BY MONDAY 9TH MARCH, 2020 Email: admin@mareebachamber.com.au

EXPRESS The

Locally owned and proudly independent

PAGE 10 The Express, Wednesday, March 4, 2020

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

WE HAVE EVERYTHING YOU NEED! FNQ Filters & Parts began its business operation under the name of Filter Wash in 2003 in an old shed in Reynolds Street, Mareeba.

vast experience in the automotive, mechanical and parts industries which includes earthmoving equipment.

In 2006 business owner Allan Jousiffe changed the name to FNQ Filters & Parts and moved their operation to their current location at 276 Byrnes Street opposite Hansen Ford.

They pride themselves on servicing their customer’s needs with their motto “If we don’t have it, we will find it.”

The business began with just one employee in 2004 but with the success of the business it has now expanded to include 12 staff.

FNQ Filters & Parts have a record of sourcing parts from all over the world meeting the needs of anyone who owns machinery in Far North Queensland and Papua New Guinea.

These entire individuals They service companies combine to make an excel- based in FNQ as far as the lent dedicated team with Gulf and Peninsula region.

FNQ Filters & Parts Staff: Ron Adams, Georgie Vigar, Amelia Salmon, Janine Meers, Doreen Salmon, Alan Jousiffe, Fleur Nightingall, Jim Hamilton, Trent Priddle, Jay Windle, Mark Hardy and Dan Duncan.

The dedicated staff sells spare parts for all types of cars, machinery and earthmoving equipment while also offering the largest range of filters in Far North Queensland with thousands of filters in stock. In addition to this they also have a large range of high tensile and stainless steel bolts, and those “hard to find” clips & fittings.

Belts, bearings and seals, drive chains, sprockets, idlers and pulleys, the largest stock list of agricultural parts including PTO equipment and trailer parts. Auto electrical, light fittings and cables, the largest stock list of HiTec oils and grease in Far North Queensland, brake and clutch parts, EFS suspension stock list, lubricants and adhesives, weld-

ing consumables, cutting tools and abrasives. Engineering supplies, extensive range of industrial and automotive hoses, drilling and thread cutting tools, slasher blades and gear boxes, compressor and parts, gaskets, batteries, air tools and lawnmower parts. FNQ Filters & Parts are one of the top 3 biggest sellers of Bare-Co tractor equip-

ment and in addition to spare parts they also stock the tools needed to fix your machinery, like KC Tools, Genius, and Sutton Tools. It doesn’t end there. FNQ Filters & Parts also offer a Hydraulink hydraulic hose assembly service, both fixed and mobile, meaning you can bring your hoses to them, or they can come to your site in a fast response, minimising your downtime.

• A large range of high tensile and stainless steel bolts • Those “hard to find” clips and fittings • Belts, bearings and seals • Hydraulic hoses and fittings • Drive chains • Sprockets, idlers and pulleys • Largest stockist of agricultural parts incl. PTO equipment • Trailer parts • Auto electrical, light fittings and cables • Largest stockist of Hi-Tec oils and grease in Far North Queensland • Brake and clutch parts • EFS Suspension stockist • Lubricants and adhesives • Welding consumables, cutting tools and abrasives • Engineering supplies • Extensive range of industrial and automotive hoses • Drilling and thread cutting tools • Slasher blades and gear boxes • Compressors and parts • Gaskets • Batteries • Air tools • Lawnmower parts • We are one of the top 3 biggest sellers of Bare-Co tractor equipment

FNQ Filters & Parts fnqfilters.com.au sales@fnqfilters.com.au 276 Byrnes Street, Mareeba 07 4092 2310 07 4092 7053 www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

The Express, Wednesday, March 4, 2020 PAGE 11

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY #IWD2020 #EachforEqual

Sunday, March 8, 2020

WHAT IS TRANSFORMATIVE TECHNOLOGY? Just like a smartwatch measures your physical wellbeing and helps you find the optimal heart rate zone for fitness, transformative tech can help you measure your mental wellbeing and find the optimal mindset to get more out of your day!

Do you want to increase your focus, productivity and sense of ease and flow? Come along and experience the latest strategies to help you be a better version of you in business, and in life.

Experience transformative tech for yourself! DATE Saturday 4th April, 2020 WHERE Destiny Cafe, 49 Loder Street, Atherton TICKETS www.startuptablelands.org/tech

What is Transformative Tech? Turn over to find out! Questions?

0419 656 247

Transformative technology consists of miniaturised and affordable tech, usually in the form of devices, apps and games, that can help you with understanding and harnessing aspects of your mental wellbeing – things like your ability to focus and get in the zone, achieve mindfulness and manage stress and emotions.

WHY TRANSFORMATIVE TECH FOR BUSINESS?

Transformative tech allows you to understand your body and your mind better to help you work more efﬁciently. It can help you ﬁnd out: • When your best time is to do work requiring intense focus • How to get back on track when you’re feeling easily distracted • How to better engage with your team or clients • How to manage stress

WHY WOULD TABLELANDERS BE INTERESTED IN THIS EVENT?

Tablelanders are often at the end of the line in terms of receiving information about the latest and most productive trends. Startup and Innovation Tablelands hopes to reverse that by offering these opportunities to Tablelanders before most of the world gets wind of them.

admin@startuptablelands.org

#EACHFOREQUAL: Seamus Campbell, Jean Thomas and Christine Doan.

Get set for Business Summit

Startup and Innovation Tablelands (ST) and cofounder, co-chair, Christine Doan wishes you a happy #EachforEqual day on International Women’s Day. ST looks forward to seeing lots of Equals at our next big event – Tablelands Business Summit 3.0

Education front and centre this Sunday THE Atherton Hotel will play host to an International Women’s Day event this Sunday, March 8. Co-hosted by the Soroptimist Club and the Queensland Association of State School Principals, the event will run from 9.30am to 11.30am with former school principal Angela Toppin as guest speaker. The Soroptimist Club and QASSP appreciate the significance of a good education and what that can do for the future of Australia. In order to effectively provide quality education to

young Australians a strong network of teachers and schools leaders is needed. Money raised from this event will create a bursary to assist with a Tablelands female teacher to attend a professional development opportunity. Cost is $25 per person and includes brunch. The event will also feature a raffle and fashion parade by All Women. Book online at www. qassp.org.au/events/event/ international-womens-dayatherton

CYNTHIA LUI – MEMBER FOR COOK International Women’s Day is a day to celebrate and acknowledge the wonderful contribution women make to our communities throughout the Cook electorate. This year’s theme ‘Celebrating our diverse community of strong women’, highlights the diversity of women and aims to empower and inspire women and girls to embrace and celebrate their unique qualities and experiences. This is especially so in Mareeba – a community of 64 nationalities all celebrating and sharing their special heritage. I believe that recognising and celebrating our diversity enriches and strengthens our communities and creates a more equal Queensland where everyone is valued. Let’s all get involved. It’s a week for women, and men to recognise the immense contribution of women and girls to our communities.

MAREEBA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

A strong chamber results in a strong business community. With a passion for their community, the executive team which includes six local businesswomen, all play important roles within the Chamber and therefore the community. The Chamber represents the interests of members in a variety of ways and is front and centre where it matters most. First and foremost, the organisation promotes Mareeba as a vibrant retail, trade supply and professional service commercial centre, which services not only the Mareeba community, but surrounding satellite areas. Mareeba is a community consistently growing and evolving which makes it a great place to live, play and do business. They believe Mareeba is the powerhouse of the Far North and will continue to promote opportunities and support expansion of the town and surrounding areas.

MAREEBA Chamber of

Commerce

4092 6050 @ admin@mareebachamber.com.au  www.mareebachamber.com.au PAGE 12 The Express, Wednesday, March 4, 2020

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY #IWD2020 #EachforEqual

An equal world is an enabled world

CELEBRATE: Angela Nason and Ida Portella are excited for Friday’s lunch in Mareeba.

Get set to inspire and celebrate

INTERNATIONAL Women’s Day is on this Sunday, March 8. To mark this occasion the Mareeba Business Women’s Club is kicking off the celebrations early with a luncheon this Friday, March 6. Held at the Mareeba Leagues Club, the annual event will feature guest speakers and a full, action

Sunday, March 8, 2020

packed hour of celebrations and inspiration. One of the guest speakers is local businesswomen and humanitarian Ida Portella, who will speak about her experiences in business and life. International Women’s Day is a great chance for women of all walks of life to

come together and celebrate their achievements. The theme for this year’s International Women’s Day is “Each for Equal” and therefore also marks a call to action for accelerating women’s equality around the world. The event only goes for an hour and this was done so that as many women could

attend the event as possible. Event Co-ordinator Angela Nason encourages all women to come along to celebrate and bond. “This is a great chance for women to come along and celebrate their achievements,” she said. “Women in business can sometimes feel isolated,

so this is a good chance to come out and meet people who are like minded. “The whole idea is about local women supporting local women.” To get your ticket for Friday’s luncheon in Mareeba head to www.eventbrite.com. au

WOMEN locally and all over the world will celebrate International Women’s Day this Sunday. The annual day represents an opportunity to celebrate the amazing achievements of all women and each year the day has a theme with this years being – #EachforEqual. An equal world is an enabled world – How will you help forge a gender equal world? Celebrate women’s achievements, raise awareness against bias, take action for equality – collectively, we can forge women’s equality. The future is exciting and everyone has a part to play. The first International Women’s Day was held in 1911 and now thousands of events occur each year to mark the economic, political and social achievements of women. International Women’s Day is the perfect opportunity to get together with your family, friends and colleagues and discuss ways about how we can help forge a gender equal world. Most importantly celebrating women’s achievements and increasing visibility, while calling out inequality, is key.

International Women's Day Lunch FRIDAY MARCH 6TH 12:30PM - 1:30PM MAREEBA LEAGUES CLUB

TICKETS VIA EVENTBRITE MEMBERS $25 NON-MEMBERS $30

HTTPS://WWW.EVENTBRITE.COM.AU/E/MBWC-INTERNATIONAL-WOMENS-DAY-LUNCH-TICKETS-95327815061

SUPPORTED BY www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

The Express, Wednesday, March 4, 2020 PAGE 13

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY #IWD2020 #EachforEqual

EACH FOR EQUAL

In our St Stephen’s community all people work together to make the world a better, more equal place. We celebrate International Women’s Day by congratulating those men and women who choose to work for the equality and dignity of all. We acknowledge and commend those women who lead each day with compassion and humility. Happy International Women’s Day from (Back) Ms Emily Pensini, Ms Sonya Barnes, Mrs Prue Vaughan, Mrs Maree Lopez, Mrs Samantha Malcolm, Mrs Paola Szerstuk, Mrs Jayarani Salerno, (Front) Mrs Trudy Pretorius, Ms Kerry Manders, Ms Janai Sugars, Ms Toni Smith, Mrs Pepita Ison and Mrs Tammy Schincariol.

KATRINA MELLICK

TRC Deputy Mayor and Mayoral candidate, Katrina Mellick is Tablelands born and bred. Her contributions to her community and work are well documented, with achievements including: • Telstra Queensland Young Business Women of the Year; • Cairns Business Women’s Club Manager of the Year; and • Australian Institute of Management’s (AIM) Regional and Rural Manager of the Year. Katrina has also been named by The Cairns Life publication as one of Tropical North Queensland’s Inspirational Business Women. Notably, Katrina was the first female President of the Mareeba Rotary Club. “IWD is a day for us to take stock and thank the people who have come before us, are among us, and who are to follow; people who strive to make our world a safer and fairer place for us all.”

Sunday, March 8, 2020

MAREEBA MAZDA & MITSUBISHI Mareeba Mazda and Mitsubishi is a locally owned and award winning motor vehicle dealership on the Tablelands. In typically a male dominated industry, Mareeba Mazda and Mitsubishi is proud to employee a number of women whom are a real asset to the business and the community. As wives, mothers and grandmothers, these women share their dedication and focus across the many facets of their lives and in their chosen careers. It is true that women can do it all. We celebrate women today and every day.

Telephone: 4086 2500 Email: ssm.office@cns.catholic.edu.au Website: www.sscc.qld.gov.au

ELLEN DUFF

The Mareeba Heritage Museum and Visitor Information Centre is blessed to have Ellen Duff as a volunteer three days a week. There is not a job that Ellen cannot do. She looks after each of our 10,000 museum pieces with pride and care; she can tell us exactly where each piece is, if it has been shifted or simply gone missing! This year Ellen celebrated 90 years of experience. Ellen keeps herself busy outside of the Museum by travelling, playing golf and socialising. Every week we at the Centre enjoy Ellen’s sense of humour, joy, giggles, cake and cups of tea. She is our very own museum piece and precious gem.

MAREEBA HERITAGE MUSEUM & Visitor Information Centre FREE ENTRY - OPEN 7 DAYS 345 Byrnes Street, Mareeba

PAGE 14 The Express, Wednesday, March 4, 2020

313-315 Byrnes Street, Mareeba • 4092 5100 www.mareebamazda.com.au www.mareebamitsubishi.com.au

ATHERTON SHOW

These two women who grew up on the Tablelands enjoy contributing to community by volunteering across a variety of not for profit organisations and hope to continue to devote many more hours to the development and sustainability of the organisations they support. Leanne and Kylie have learnt about hardships of our diverse region and recognise the dedication of so many other volunteers while making lifelong friendships. By actively supporting other women in their self-development through volunteering, they encourage others to experience the satisfaction of making a difference. The vital contribution that volunteers make to community liveability through activities and events and creating opportunities for local businesses and economic growth that is recognised by all levels of government. Kylie and Leanne invite and encourage women to participate and support each other.

KATE EDEN

Being a tin miner’s daughter from Herberton, Kate learned to drive a Cat 930 loader by the age of 9. The eldest of three girls, it never occurred to Kate that many women were expected to stay at home and raise kids. “We simply got in and did whatever needed to be done. Dad always said that strength was solvable”, said Kate. After getting university qualifications in science, this can-do attitude extended into community development work. Over the next 15 years the senior positions Kate held in Federal, State and Local Government reflected her long-term interest in empowering communities. Kate is presently completing 4 years’ experience as a TRC councillor and is running for re-election in Division One. If re-elected Kate is particularly keen to focus on affordable rates into the future, while also continuing to build connections within and between the Tableland communities. ADVERTISEMENT

KATE EDEN

TRC Division ONE Stable Experienced Leadership

0429 912 077

Email: kateeden32@hotmail.com Web: http://kateedentrc.com kateedendivision1 www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY #IWD2020 #EachforEqual

Sunday, March 8, 2020

Make every year a TRAVEL year!

IGNITE FINANCIAL NQ

Opening her business in 2008, Jacqui Webb is the most experienced mortgage broker on the Tablelands. Launching her fresh new ‘Ignite Financial NQ’ brand in 2019, Jacqui and her team continue to provide borrowers access to over 30 lenders at no additional cost to clients. Jacqui Webb is supported by Emma Horsford and Michele Stanley, who as a team have the experience, know how and local knowledge to gain the best outcome for you. They are dedicated lending experts providing unparalleled financial services across the region and are here to help with all your lending needs – including home loans, refinances, investment and construction loans as well as car loans. With offices in Mareeba, Atherton and Innisfail, Jacqui, Emma and Michele have a passion for not only for the industry and their clients, but the region as a whole.

MAREEBA I ATHERTON I INNISFAIL 0407 078 595 WWW.IGNITEFINANCIALNQ.COM.AU

CR. LENORE WYATT

IDA PORTELLA BUSINESS & TRAVEL SERVICES

With the continuing popularity of our small group trips, it’s our girls that make great tour leaders and ensure you will have the most amazing adventures. We have a variety of awesome trips already departing in 2020 and we are now planning for our 2021 and 2022 departures. We have some new and exciting tours that will ensure we will bring you the world and the opportunity to be part of our outstanding holidays. In 2020, we are off to Egypt, Israel Jordan, Las Vegas, Spain Portugal, Morocco, Scotland, Italy, Ireland and Scandinavia and of course we have included the option for you to discover UWorld Cruising in Winter on the Danube. We hope you can join us and we welcome you to be part of our travel family. With IPBTS it’s personal and together you will be able to plan and book your best holiday yet. Specialising in international travel, cruising, with a niche focus on luxury, humanitarian and group tour holidays, you will get that personalised VIP service that you deserve.

Phone: 0439 545 433 Visit: Suite 3/186 Byrnes St, Mareeba www.idaportella.com.au

Passionate, determined and enthusiastic are just some of the traits that Mareeba Shire Councillor Lenore Wyatt possesses. A local through and through, Lenore is passionate about her community, determined to make it the very best it can be and enthusiastic about the possibilities. Lenore’s community involvement started way before she first became a councillor in 2016. Since childhood Lenore has been involved with many local organisations spending her days and nights giving back to organisations and events that better the community we live in. As a Councillor and current President of Mareeba Rotary, just to name a few, Lenore is passionate about developing a friendly, welcoming and thriving Shire that everyone can be proud of. In her various roles Lenore gets to work with and meet amazing people everyday and as a community leader, she has a strong passion to see others succeed.

Member Agency

BEV DAYES & ANN-MAREE ZUGNO

JODIE TURNER

Business and community go hand in hand for Jodie Turner. Like so many business owners, it’s not just about making money and being successful, it’s about building a business that can also make a real difference in the lives of other people and supporting the growth in their local community. After 11 years in business, Jodie and husband Max, continue to give back to their community all while continuing to grow their business with the same passion and commitment they had when they started. “By being in business and volunteering and helping the community where we can, everybody benefits.” There is no slowing down either. Last year saw the local pest control experts relocate to a new bigger and better premises to better service their growing clientele. “We love what we do – we are locals, we employee locals and are committed to our business and community.”

Mareeba and Dimbulah Community Bank Branches of Bendigo Bank are making great things happen. Your local Community Bank is proud to have 12 women as part of the team helping your great things happen. Leading the team in the Mareeba and Dimbulah branches is Bev Dayes. As Branch Operations Manager, Bev is proud to be part of the Community Bank that has returned $3.5m to the community since 2015 – now that’s making great happen. Working alongside Bev in business development is Ann-Maree Zugno. Together these ladies are local women that are passionate about giving back to their community and are committed to helping you achieve your financial goals. They know that your goals, your plans and your situation is unique, but no matter what great things you want out of life, the team can help you get there. Because they are local like you, they are in a great position to understand what you need. So if you want to join a bank with a difference, get involved with the bank that’s making great things happen.

Helping your great things happen. Our Staff Mareeba & Dimbulah Helping your great things happen. Your goals, your plans, and your situation is unique.

FLEXICHOICE

Shenice Portelli is a lady who is destined to shine. Her determined attitude has allowed her to work towards her goals. Shenice’s energy helps her fit a number of tasks into every day. She works regular hours for a local business in addition to studying Cert III in Education Support. Her dream is to be a support worker. “I am passionate about working with people who have a disability because I feel that they understand me and I understand their journey,” she said. Rachael McNab volunteered at FlexiChoice, but never considered it as a career. One year ago an opportunity presented itself and Rachael decided to give it a go. “I’ve only been working in the area of disability support for a year and really enjoy it... I love helping people,” says Rachael.

Your NDIS Service Provider

So no matter what great things you want out of life, Our Staff can help you get there.

1 VAUGHAN ST, MAREEBA P: 0418 150 759 • E: info@maxpestman.com WWW.MAXPESTMAN.COM www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Making things happen for you and your community. Call Our Staff great on 4092 2099 or 4093 5266 or drop into the branch at Drop into your nearest branch at 94 Byrnes Street, 94 Byrnes Street, Mareeba 31 Raleigh Street, Mareeba orDimbulah. 31-33 Raleigh Street, Dimbulah. Call us on 4092 2099 in Mareeba or 4093 5266 in Dimbulah. Our Staff Mareeba & Dimbulah 94 Byrnes Street 4092 2099 or 4093 5266

Mareeba and Dimbulah Community Bank branches

Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Limited, ABN 11 068 049 178 AFSL/Australian Credit Licence 237879. A241145-5 (510462_v5) (21/11/2019)

bendigobank.com.au

P: 4092 2332 l E: oﬃce@ﬂexichoice.org.au WWW.FLEXICHOICE.ORG.AU The Express, Wednesday, March 4, 2020 PAGE 15

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY #IWD2020 #EachforEqual

CR. ANGELA TOPPIN

Angela Toppin was the first of four daughters, the first in her family to finish high school and the first to obtain a tertiary education. Angela was the first permanent female principal at Malanda State High and later the first female principal of Cairns State High School. Being first has been a theme for Angela’s life; she has accomplished many more “firsts” and mentored other women (and men) to success in their chosen professions. Angela has a “can-do” attitude, is solutions oriented, is passionate about Mareeba Shire and has an indefatigable stamina to see tasks through to conclusion. Angela believes a woman can be Mayor of the Shire, and says she is ready to be our next Mayor if elected in March, the first female Mayor of Mareeba Shire Council.

APELS SOLICITORS & NOTARY

Apels Solicitors & Notary is a female dominated firm with a 5:1 ratio of women to men. The males are quite outnumbered! Apels celebrates women in the legal profession by supporting flexible work hours, so employees can focus on their family and studies and continue to advance their careers. Collectively, Apels Solicitors & Notary has over 65 years of legal experience including residential, rural and commercial conveyancing, water allocations and licensing, business advice and contracts, family law and domestic violence matters, police matters, wills, power of attorney and estate planning, deceased estates and disputes, debt recovery and general disputes, mediation and litigation. Contact our office should you require practical, reliable and timely legal assistance.

Sunday, March 8, 2020

DEBBIE BOARDMAN

With care and compassion for all, Deborah Boardman has combined her love of flowers with that of helping others when they need it most. “I love combining my work as a funeral celebrant with my love of flowers.” Three years on since opening Love Them Flowers, her love of floristry has continued to flourish and since becoming a qualified funeral celebrant two years ago, Debbie has created a life where her businesses allow her to fulfil both her passions. “I strive to make a funeral the best it can be for the family – a final farewell with respect that truly reflects the loved one lost.” Debbie prides herself on friendly and professional service and most of all beautiful flowers and compassion for all.

DEBBIE BOARDMAN

138 Byrnes Street, MAREEBA

Telephone: (07) 4092 2522

BREE HARGREAVES

Bree Hargreaves really is a small business owners best friend. Many people wonder how she manages to juggle her family, business and volunteer commitments but Bree assures us that she is just ‘doing her thing’ like everybody else. As the President of the Atherton Tablelands Chamber of Commerce Bree is available every Tuesday 9.30am - 10.30am at Love – Lee Café, Atherton for all business owners to pop in and discuss their business concerns. “It is so easy to feel alone when you are in small business, I just want to make myself available and am happy to discuss any topic. If it is not something I can handle, I have a fantastic network of professionals to call on. A burden shared, is a burden halved. Social visits are also welcome!” Bree says.

PAULINE GUGALA I was born in England and spent most of my childhood living in South Australia where I first learnt to craft, knit, crochet and sew. I moved to Melbourne for a few years before moving to Brisbane and worked all over Queensland before settling in Mareeba and opening Kreative Knook, the local craft shop. I enjoy all types of crafts and gardening and helping people with their craft projects. I like to encourage people regardless of age or sex to do more crafts as it is a great way to relax and release the tensions of the day.

Bree Hargreaves 0409 962 291

bree@bizoffsider.com.au PO Box 642 Tolga Qld. 4882

www.bizoffsider.com.au

PAGE 16 The Express, Wednesday, March 4, 2020

Funeral Celebrant Final farewells with respect

PHONE 4092 1649 or 0410 328 357

3 Doyle St, Mareeba • deborah_boardman@bigpond.com

MAREEBA STATE HIGH SCHOOL

Mareeba State High School is proud to once again celebrate International Women’s Day. With 50% of our female teaching staff across all subject areas and 80% female non-teaching staff, it is important to celebrate the role they play in educating our future leaders. One area of focus is sport. Sport is an important part of both our curriculum and extra curriculum activities at Mareeba State High School. We have many opportunities for girls to participate in a wide range of sports whilst at school and our staff have been active in promoting to girls the beneﬁts of participating in sport both at school and in the community.

Mareeba State High School

NEED A HELPING HAND? We understand first hand the balancing act of running a business! Let us use our experience to help you with... º Branding º Marketing º Social Media Strategy º Streamlining Admin & I.T. º Software Troubleshooting º Websites & Webhosting º Domain Name Registration º Event Management º Community Engagement º Consulting & more....

FRESH & SILK ARRANGEMENTS, BALLOONS TEDDIES, HANDMADE CARDS, GIFTS & MORE!

107 BYRNES ST, MAREEBA PHONE: 0488 002 884

"Building a Better Future Together" Jasper St, Mareeba T: 4086 2777  E: info@mareebashs.eq.edu.au www.mareebashs.eq.edu.au

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY #IWD2020 #EachforEqual

ASH FABIANI

Ash Fabiani is an enthusiastic young lady, whose sense of Adventure led her to the TravelExperience.com.au in 2015. Ash traded in her boots as a Contract musterer where her daily jobs included horseback and motorbike riding, yard work and other physically demanding jobs. Ash was able to work alongside the men at an equal capacity. This life experience has benefitted her role in the travel industry by promoting gender equality. Africa captured Ash’s soul last year when she went on Safari and now she wants to share the experience with you. Ash is taking 12 lucky people on an exclusive African Safari in September There are still a few spots left, so if you are looking for an amazing travel experience, contact her today to find out more.

KELLY FERGUSON Kelly has been working in the tourism industry and travelling with many like-minded passionate travellers for over 12 years. She brings a vibrant attitude towards her role within Travelexperience.com.au, which consists of consulting, mentoring and accounting. Education, development and support is very important to any business and Kelly makes sure the same opportunities are offered to individual’s that will help them grow and create life-long skills. Kelly is about to embark on her newest adventure outside of travel, becoming a mum and is excited to share equal opportunities with her children.

Sunday, March 8, 2020

MANNUELA ARCIDIACONO

One could call me a travel addict, traveller, explorer, wanderer but the one word I like is Globetrotter. I love to travel, it enriches the soul. Learning and experiencing different cultures, exploring the landscapes and history makes the destination its own. Travel makes us feel a countless numbers of emotions we’ve never felt before, leaving us speechless and longing for more. My passion for travel began at a young age when I began travelling overseas with my mum and dad, the travel bug hit hard and I have been travelling ever since. I was lucky enough to land the perfect job at Travelexperience.com.au 14 years ago, what could be better than booking a client the holiday of their dreams. When I’m not at travel experience I am teaching dancing. Happy International Women’s Day Ladies!

SMALL GROUP

HIGHLIGHTS OF KENYA AND TANZANIA

FROM

$3,299

ASH FABIANI | P: 4091 3411 | A: 12 Vernon St, Atherton E: ash@travel-fnq.com.au | W: travelexperience.com.au

KRISTINA HAREN

Previously a massage therapist, Kristina was excited to get involved with the larger community when taking on What’s On & Where to Go magazine last year. “We are incredibly lucky to be a part of a vibrant community and it is amazing to produce a publication helping to promote everything we have available.” Kristina hopes to inspire people to engage with others, and to explore the spectacular environment the Tablelands has to offer. “After 10 years of living on the Tablelands I still find new views, creeks, walks, and beautiful trees that had been there just waiting to be discovered. I hope the articles, events and photos in the magazine will inspire others to take time out from their busy lives to explore this beautiful area in which we live.”

Per Person Twin Share

MARY GRAHAM

From humble beginnings on my parent’s tobacco farm to a wife, mother, grandmother, manager, business owner and councillor. Growing up I could never have imagined that I could have achieved what I have to date. The values of hard work, honesty, integrity and reliability instilled in me by my parents have stayed with me through my working life. I’ve been lucky that the opportunities have found me, and I have always made the most of it when presented. For example, when I was asked if I was interested in becoming a councillor, I had never given it any thought, but after talking it over with my family I said yes. The reason I ran for councilor was so that I could make a difference, by looking for opportunities to grow our shire so that our children have the same opportunities that I had, to be able to grow up, work, live and enjoy all we have to offer within this great shire of ours.

NIKITA FREGONA

Nikita Fregona is a local mum working full time at Travelexperience. com.au Mareeba, following her passion after travelling extensively throughout her youth, and becoming a very successful travel advisor. Nikita is hosting her first group tour to India in March 2021, visiting the Holi/Colour Festival, Golden Triangle and more. She is very excited and would love travel enthusiasts to join her on this amazing cultural experience! Travelexperience.com.au are working closely with operators who are particularly proactive in trying to improve the gender balance of their trip leaders. They have recently achieved a 50/50 gender split of new tour leaders in India. Travelexperience.com.au together with their preferred operators hope to inspire and empower other women to follow in their footsteps and chase their dreams.

MAREEBA NEWS

0438 642 498 info@whatsontablelands.com.au whatsontablelands.com.au FREE MONTHLY MAGAZINE l 100% LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

125 BYRNES STREET, MAREEBA PHONE 4092 1030 • FAX: 4092 1035 EMAIL: mareebanews@bigpond.com WEB: www.mareebanews.net.au The Express, Wednesday, March 4, 2020 PAGE 17

EXPRESSyourself

Letters to the Editor

Have your say

EMAIL: editorial@theexpressnewspaper.com.au

We all need to do our part

The Express’ Phil Brandel reported on the missing link in local crime on February 12 and I know this is a hotly debated issue in our community. Crime rates have risen across the northern region, and unfortunately Mareeba Shire has not escaped, having experienced a higher than usual spate of vandalism, break and enters, theft and more. This breaks my heart and concerns me deeply. Residents would be aware that crime and the law are not areas that Council can act upon. We are quite limited in how we can help the people in our Shire except to assist with educating on prevention and to mitigate or reduce any loss that flows from these acts. One suggested Council initiative is to install CCTV cameras in the CBD – this would need the support of business owners and the community to proceed. I met with Cynthia Lui MP, Member for Cook recently to discuss the rise in youth crime in our community and to lobby for greater state and federal involvement. Ms Lui knows that I am very passionate about ensuring ‘safety and wellbeing’ for all our community members, and that I will continue liaising with our local state member to advocate for an interagency solution to this problem if I am elected mayor. To deal with these issues at a grassroots level I will continue to volunteer with ‘at risk youths’ in our community through local organisations.I volunteer for Rosies- ‘Friends on the Street’, through the Catholic Church. I assist and support our PCYC with programs they run to re-engage disengaged youths. I support many local sporting organisations to provide sporting opportunities for disengaged

youths. And I represent Council on the Kuranda Interagency Network which co-ordinates interagency support for all ‘disadvantage’ members of the Kuranda Community. In speaking to other local youths in our community, discussing ways to prevent these crimes from occurring, I was optimistic to learn that young people are passionate about solving these problems too. They suggested education on the impacts of crime sprees including cost to and personal devastation of victims, rectification through community service and re-channeling activity into more positive pursuits that build confidence and give back to the community. We all need to do our part to bring about change. If you have children, are you making sure they are going to school? Do you know where they are all of the time? Are you talking to your kids about the importance of school, respect and courtesy? If you see something happen or suspicious behaviour do you report it? Do you speak to people how you would like to be spoken to? Do you act towards people and property in a respectful way yourself? Angela Toppin MAREEBA

Please explain the excessive rates increases

AS rates notices are currently being delivered I feel it is time for the CEO and councillors particularly those standing for reelection to explain and why there has been such excessive rates increases on their watch. Our nett payable rates in 2020 have risen 23.5 % compared to the same rate period in 2016 ,even worse water consumption charges have risen

330% ,a massive ripoff if ever there was one. On my estimation this means this council is now collecting approximately eight miiion dollars a year more than when they come to power. The question that needs to be answered is where has this money been spent as it is certainly not on roads rates and rubbish which is what councils are for. On more than one occasion when ratepayers have requested particular problems to be fixed ie the tress in Ash St Yungaburra the standard answer is sorry no money. The only area that I can see alot of money spent on is the council it self whether that major council office refurbishment, excessive amounts spent on nice to have accessories on the TRC vehicle fleet, an obscene amount paid in wages to the CEO and top four managers who find it difficult delivering community expectations. Why is the payroll to revenue ratio one of the highest in the state. I could go on but I won’t. These are some of the questions any councillor standing for re election need to answer ,if the can’t they are not worthy of representing us on council. Granville Spencer ATHERTON

Kuranda Range road stalemate

Anyone who drives up or down the Kuranda Range is unlikely to argue with the urgent need for an upgrade. However, Queensland’s Main Roads Department is in a dilemma because if they attempt an upgrade of this road in any meaningful way it will leave an enormous scar on the landscape unacceptable to most Australians. We find ourselves in a bind where the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area (WTWHA) is an impediment to FNQ’s future de-

velopment, including tourism, because the Kuranda Range Road, gateway from Cairns to the Tablelands and the Cape and Gulf, is completely enveloped by WTWHA. The Wet Tropics World Heritage Area (WTWHA) was nominated by the Federal Government of Australia and was successful in October 1988. However, normal incremental growth and development in transport has suffered, and we have come to a stalemate on the Kuranda Range Road redevelopment. There is a simple, logical solution to this -- a tunnel from Speewah to Kamerunga; a mere six kilometres long at 3.9 degrees slope. With associated roadworks, the project would be 14 kms long. New roadworks on the top end would be along the Stoney Creek Rd access, which is an existing 40m wide road reserve. Two one-way dual lane tunnels would accommodate traffic up and down. These tunnels would alleviate the traffic problem for many years to come, and would also be a huge safety feature, giving a potential four-lane escape route from Cairns in the event of a cyclone, tsunami or other disaster. The tunnels could be built without any disruption to present traffic flow to and from Cairns. All product removed from the tunnels could be used as road base and for associated road works, and as aggregate for concrete in the tunnels. Any excess could be sold to existing quarries to offset the cost of tunnel construction. It’s the only practical way to conserve the WTWHA icon and in fact going under this area would only reinforce how much we care for our natural heritage, as there is no feasible above ground project which would not greatly impact the WTWHA. Cost should not be an issue, but

OPINION

there’s a fair chance it would be the cheapest option anyway. It’s certainly the least invasive and disruptive! George Kidner YUNGABURRA

Customer service is paramount

THIS week I have talked seriously with two Atherton business managers. The common issue of these discussions was procuring parts in a reasonable time frame to repair high profile products; car, and a pressure washer. The first case is about procuring a steering wheel component. The second case is about procuring a pressure switch. The first case will eventually cost $2500 plus to the customer because of diverted travel plans. The second case is over five weeks in the making, on a brand new product bought as a Christmas gift which only functioned for seven times used. Both managers articulated clearly their frustrations caused by delays in procuring parts to service their products. I then chose to have conversations with headquarters Queensland and Melbourne. In both cases I was overwhelmed by the displacement of responsibility onto their ‘Suppliers’ and their lines of access and expediency. Mareeba and Atherton are small town wooed like any other rural community by the opportunity to purchase high profile products. Yet when a problem arises or when there is a repair job needed, the business manager and/or staff face the frustration and anger of the customers as they are told of the time lines for parts delivery. In some cases upwards of five weeks. I will not remain passive to

the ransom hold of ‘iniquitous suppliers’. It is imperative that product parts procurement is either simplified of prioritised for rural Australian small businesses. Beverley Hulme TOLGA

Reply to CEO delegation letters

THERE has been some serious misinformation quoted in recent letters about the TRC’s CEO financial delegation. Let me try to correct this. The caretaker legislation that restricts a local government from entering into a contract above $411,630 applies to the CEO as well as Councillors. Outside of caretaker mode, the CEO will only exercise his delegated powers in straight forward situations. For example, he may enter into a contract for a standard gravel re-sheet up to the budget amount. If it is a complex project, or high risk, the decision always comes back to Council, even for small amounts of money. Regardless of who makes the decision, all tenders are assessed by a panel which often includes an external expert. That panel makes a recommendation. Thus the CEO never has sole discretion. We all want good value for money and trustworthy transactions. The advantage of delegating low risk decisions to the CEO is to speed things up, cut administration costs and free Councillors to do their job which is to monitor the overall functioning of the Council. Kate Eden HERBERTON

With Phil Brandel @Philbrandel1

Maybe we just don’t care? I RECENTLY overheard a conversation between two people discussing the upcoming Mareeba shire council elections when one potential voter asked “which division do I vote in?” I also saw a similar comment on the Express Facebook page when we ran a story on the Tablelands Regional Council. “I don’t know any of these people, I’ve never seem them anywhere” It was then pointed out to them, that they live in Mareeba and that’s why they didn’t recognise any of the TRC councillors.

As we start to get to the pointy end of the local election cycle, it seems like people “just don’t care” The reason is, because we haven’t been given anything to care about. I’ve heard lots of the same promises from potential councillors, like increasing communications, fixing roads, employing locals, putting rates on hold….yawn. I’m yet to hear one single original idea. One idea that galvanises the community, one idea that makes us sit up and take notice. One idea that makes people

care. Does Mr and Mrs Average, know what TLPI stands for? Do they care? Who knows what the difference is between a council Plan, Act, Policy, Strategy, Agreement or Procedure? How many people don’t know the difference between MSC and TRC? In January I attended the TRC council meeting at their community education and disaster coordination centre. The agenda I took home was 314 pages long; the only thing it’s good for is curing my insomnia.

Does anyone ever read the whole agenda, or any number of reports that are pumped out of government departments at an alarming rate? According to data collected from popular council reporting app Snap Send Solve, (which allows people to send photos of issues to their council or local authority.) Data showed parking was easily the biggest gripe nationwide, with a total of 15,178 complaints in 2018. Dumped rubbish came in second with 12,313 complaints, followed by pavement (5775),

tree reports (6297) and roads (4951) In rural areas like Mareeba and Atherton parking is probably not as much as an issue as say in Melbourne or Sydney. I would hazard to guess in the Mareeba and Atherton shires, crime would be pretty high on everyone’s gripes, also access to clean drinking water, recycling, and animal problems. I would like to hear some original ideas on youth crime, unemployment, feral animals, transport, pollution, water or climate change. I never thought I would hear

myself say, “Pauline Hanson has a great idea” when she came up with the idea of cash for cane toads. A lot of ecologists have said it wouldn’t work and it probably wouldn’t, and it may not be a very good idea, but at least it’s an idea. All the local nominees seem to be singing from the same hymn book, that book is called “play it safe and don’t say anything brash.” At the moment I’m hearing lots of promises and lots of talk but no real ideas. It’s no wonder constituents have no real idea who they’re voting for.

FREE NEWS ONLINE EVERYDAY WWW.THEEXPRESSNEWSPAPER.COM.AU

PAGE 18 The Express, Wednesday, March 4, 2020

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

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

Affordable and convenient

OPEN FOR INSPECTION

THURSDAY 1.45am March 5: 11am-1 SATURDAY 45am March 7: 10-10.

YOU'LL hear people in the real estate industry use cliches such as “ideal first home” and “renovators delight” or “ideal investment opportunity” – this affordable and conveniently located property fits all three. Yes this property could use a little TLC, but some of the upgrades the property has had over the years, including a renovated kitchen and bathroom, solar power system, security screens (just to name a few), are a good indication that the property had been loved and well cared for in the past. If nothing else, one thing is for sure, with an asking price of $220,000 negotiable, properties in this price bracket don't last long. So Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

get your skates on and bring your paintbrush and garden gloves too. . Features include: • Three bedrooms with built-in-robes • Separate living spaces • Renovated kitchen • Bathroom with spa bath plus separate toilet • Security screens • Lock up garage with separate workshop/storage • Grid connected Solar panel system • External cladding • 708m2 fenced side and rear boundaries Contact exclusive agent John Goncalves at Ray White Mareeba on 0407 690 961 for inspections or come to the open home.

9 Couper St, MAREEBA $220,000 NEG EXCLUSIVE to John Goncalves Ray White Mareeba 0407 690 961

The Express, Wednesday, March 4, 2020 PAGE 19

PROPERTY

Room for the family and all the extras 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 with huge rear yard • Well maintained 3 bedroom plus 2 bathroom home - 3 bedrooms upstairs and 2 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

OPEN HOME

THIS SATURDAY 11.30AM - 12.30PM 8 Allara Street @ Amaroo Estate

• BRAND NEW AWARD WINNING ANTHONY LANGTREE HOME • 4 BEDROOMS + ENSUITE, MEDIA ROOM & QUALITY EXTRAS • FULLY TILED & AIRCONDITIONED PLUS STUNNING KITCHEN • 1007M2 FULLY FENCED + SIDE ACCESS & AUTO IRRIGATION

PRICE: $495,000 NEG JOE: 0417 700 468

WWW.JOETORRISI.COM.AU

• Split-system air-conditioned living area plus 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 • 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. Open for inspection this

Saturday from 10am to 11am. For further information or to arrange a private inspecAddress: Price: Agent:

tion of this Mareeba family home, 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

Contact:

Four acres with shed close to town

Thinking about selling?

FROM the moment your car turns onto the driveway on approach to home you immediately get that feeling off winding down over a glass of red sitting by the pool and looking beyond to a natural bush setting. Upon entry of home you are immediately greeted by large open indoor-outdoor entertainment areas that overlook the inground pool giving that immediate sense

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

07 4092 2232

OPPORTUNITY NOW! 17 Jebreen Street, Mareeba • Split level home • 3 bedrooms with airconditioning • Tidy kitchen • Garden shed • Fully fenced • Pool • Minutes to schools and CBD

Aurelia 0418 183 555

4092 5255 PAGE 20 The Express, Wednesday, March 4, 2020

of relaxation. Meticulously presented and oozing that homely feel the property has a long list of family comforts it’s only a matter of just moving in and start enjoying a lifestyle of convenience and privacy literally a few minutes from the town center. • Large renovated kitchen with miles if bench and cupboard space • 3 bedrooms, two with built-ins and a/c • Master bed with Ensuite and WIR • Open plan entertainment area / Games Room • Bar area with servery from kitchen servicing rum-

pus entertainment • Large family / dining room- Opening out onto the deck • Pool serviced without door shower • Solar hot water • 7m x 13m Machinery shed with 3 phase power • Large treed irrigated horse paddocks Located at 9 Kenneally Road this wonderful 4.4 acre Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

property offers highly soughtafter convenience being so close to town with that special touch of a rural setting that can be further subdivided. For further information or to arrange a private inspection, contact marketing agent Andrew Rogato on 0418 183 444.

9 Kenneally Road, MAREEBA $549,000 Andrew Rogato Rogato Real Estate 0418 183 444

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

PROPERTY

Quiet cul-de-sac living LOOKING to live in a quiet cul-de-sac that's just minutes from town? With no rear neighbours and a bushland backdrop, this solid three bedroom home with an office and shed is sure to please. Inside the home is very practical and convenient, with tiled floors making maintenance a breeze, as well as creature comforts like security screens and air-conditioning! The kitchen with timber cabinetry, is a good size and is adjacent to the dining room which provides for easy access to the air-conditioned, open plan lounge room, as well as sliding glass door access to the spacious rear patio. The three bedrooms are a good size with one featuring air conditioning, two featuring built-in robes and one with a walk-in robe. The hallway then provides direct access to the bathroom and laundry as well. Out the back is a great patio, with an additional storage room or office at one end and the garage or workshop just to the other. Enjoy sitting having a beer in the afternoons on your private patio over-

looking your own bushland park reserve! The fully fenced yard is easy care, with low maintenance gardens and irrigation throughout. The large double carport also provides for drive-through access with electric gates on both sides of the driveway. • 3 bed, 1 bath, 2 carports plus office and powered shed • Tiled floors making maintenance a breeze, • Security screens and air conditioning • Solid timber kitchen with heaps of cabinetry • Spacious rear patio, no rear neighbours and a bushland backdrop • Quiet cul-de-sac, minutes from town, schools and sporting venues • Fully fenced yard, low maintenance gardens and irrigation throughout • Large double carport with drive-through access with electric gates This is a solid, well-maintained, low maintenance home in a quiet area with no rear neighbours, what more could you ask for? For anyone in this price bracket, this is a must to inspect.

For more information, or to book your private inspection of this Mareeba home, call exclusive agent Remo Esposito at the Central Realty Mareeba office today on 0401 969 473.

Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

16 Kylie Close, MAREEBA $299,000 NEG EXCLUSIVE to Remo Esposito Central Realty Mareeba 0401 969 473 or 4092 2232

Great location, great price • Split system air-conditioning to two bedroom and living • Security screens • Nice back patio • 2-bay 6mx6m powered shed • Fenced backyard on 809m2 Priced at $269,000 negotiable. Be quick for this one as the owners are looking at

YOU can't go past this solid masonry block three bedroom home if your looking for a property that's both affordable

 LAST BLOCK LEFT!

and in a great location! The property features: • 3 bedrooms with built-in-robes

Address: Price: Agent:

committing elsewhere and have priced the property to sell. If your interested in inspecting contact agent John Goncalves at Ray White Mareeba on 0407 690 961 with your preferred viewing day and time. (Please allow 24 hours notice in consideration of the current tenant).

MAREEBA $269,000 NEG EXCLUSIVE to John Goncalves Ray White Mareeba 0407 690 961

Contact:

INCOME GENERATING 5X UNIT COMPLEX • 5x 2 bedroom masonry block units • 5 separate titles but with NO body corporate • Low vacancy rate over the years • Current rents are $225 per week per unit • Close to schools, medical and Mareeba town centre • Potential to renovate and improve the rent income Is there a better investment in Mareeba? Price: $875,000 Neg Contact Exclusive Agent John Goncalves 0407 690 961

Riverlands Park

E C N A H C T LAS



raywhiteruralmareeba.com.au/qld/mareeba

99% SOLD OUT!

ONLY ONE BLOCK REMAINING!

A Spacious 3011sqm Rural Home Site

Only 1 Block remains at Riverlands Park – a premium rural residential community offering near acreage blocks in a peaceful natural setting, just 5 minutes from Mareeba and 40 minutes from Cairns.

WAS $129,500 NOW REDUCED TO $119,500 DON’T DELAY! For full plan and dimension detials of the last block remaining at Riverlands Park contact Steve Cordenos today P: 0418 774 994 l E: steve@cordenosrealestate.com www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

The Express, Wednesday, March 4, 2020 PAGE 21

A Air Conditioning & Refrigeration B Blinds C

DIRECTORY

The Express, Wednesday, March 4, 2020 PAGE 23

EXPRESSO Your Weekly Horoscopes



Aries



March 21 to Apr 20

A change is as good as a rest. Don’t go looking for change. You will be a bit of a spendthrift this week. Don’t make financial contributions in order to impress others.

Taurus

Wednesday 4th

Thursday 5th

Friday 6th

Saturday 7th

Sunday 8th

Tide Times 0543 2.28 1311 1.71 1709 1.89 2315 1.30

Tide Times 0608 2.52 1223 1.55 1747 2.04 2353 1.07

Tide Times 0033 0.83 0716 3.01 1318 1.15 1907 2.42

Tide Times 0113 0.59 0754 3.24 1354 0.95 1949 2.62

Tide Times 0153 0.40 0833 3.41 1431 0.79 2029 2.77

Max 32o Min 24o

Max 33o Min 24o

Max 31o Min 24o

Max 32o Min 25o

SUDOKU Enter digits from 1 to 9 into the blank spaces. Every row must contain one of each digit. So must every column, as must every 3x3 square.

April 21 to May 21

Leo

Tuesday 10th

Tide Times 0234 0.30 0910 3.48 1509 0.68 2110 2.87

Tide Times 0314 0.32 0946 3.43 1547 0.65 2152 2.88

Max 32o Min 26o

June 22 to July 22

Banana Pudding Cake Ingredients

WORD SEARCH

Family talks may get a little combative. You will enjoy lavish forms of entertainment and should consider making arrangements early. Aug 23 - Sept 23

Libra

Sept 24 to Oct 23

Your talent will be recognized. Involvement in fitness clubs will be conducive to engaging roman tic connections. Talk to someone you trust if you need advice about broaching the subject.

Losses are likely if you get involved with uncertain individuals. You should expect to have changes in your home. You will be able to talk to your lover about future goals and perhaps make plans for you to take a vacation.

Scorpio

Oct 24 to Nov 22

Don’t bother retaliating, just walk away. Romance will come through involvement with fundraising organizations. The information that you gain can be used in every aspect of your life.

Sagittarius

Nov 23 to Dec 21

Reciprocate by offering helpful hints. Money problems will be difficult to deal with if you have a partner. You need an outlet. Generosity will put you in the poorhouse. Reciprocate by offering helpful hints.

Capricorn

WORD Amphora Chest

Rack

Drawer

Jar

Stein

Basin

Flask

Jug

Tote

Bowl

Glass

Locker

Urn

Packet

Vault

Canister Goblet Carton

Hamper Plate

Puzzle solutions

Dec 22 to Jan 20

Jan 21 to Feb 19

Don’t be afraid of opposition; your suggestions are valid. Upgrading at this point is not a bad plan. Take time to listen to the problems of family members. Don’t overspend on luxury items.

Pisces

Holder

Bag

Tempers will mount if you’re too pushy at work or at home. Your ability to visualize will help you convince others of the possibilities.

Aquarius

4 large eggs, lightly beaten 1 cup water ¼ cup olive oil

C R O S S

July 23 to Aug 22

Virgo

Max 33o Min 26o

Method

May 22 to June 21

Anger may cause you grief; control your temper and try to sit back and calm down. Plan some family outings. You will be full of energy and you need to find something constructive to do.

Monday 9th

1. Preheat oven to 180o, grease and flour a bundt pan and set aside. 2. In a large bowl, combine cake mix and instant pudding powder. Whisk to loosen any lumps. Add eggs, water, and oil. Whisk just until incorporated. Using rubber spatula, fold in bananas just until combined; don’t over-mix. 3. Pour into prepared bundt pan, lightly shaking to even out the batter. 4. Bake 35-45 minutes, or just until a toothpick inserted in center comes out with a few tender crumbs attached. 5. Cool completely in pan on rack. Once cool, use very thin knife to separate cake from pan edges, if needed. Invert and remove cake.

Relatives may not be telling you the whole truth about a family situation. Accept the inevitable. You will accomplish the most through or. Romantic encounters will develop through group activity.

Cancer

Max 32o Min 25o

2 bananas, roughly mashed 1 butter cake mix 1 packet vanilla instant pudding powder

Don’t overspend on luxury items. Romantic opportunities will flourish through travel or communication. Look into ways that you can make extra cash. Don’t let your emotions take over.

Gemini

! k a e r b a e Tak

ACROSS

DOWN

7. A woman’s short open jacket. 8. Very close to; almost. 9. The outside limit of an object, area, or surface. 10. Having a striking beauty or splendour. 11. A particular form or version of a published text. 13. Unpleasantly bitter or pungent. 15. A cavalry unit commanded by a captain. 16. A pair of organs in the abdominal cavity of mammals, birds, and reptiles, that excrete urine. (Plural) 18. Discontinue a session of a parliament or other legislative assembly without dissolving it. 19. Pull something apart or to pieces with force. 21. An 18th-century artistic movement and style, affecting many aspects of the arts. 22. A line on a map connecting points having the same atmospheric pressure at a given time or on average over a given period.

1. A full, deep, prolonged cry uttered by a lion or other large wild animal. 2. A room in a hotel or other building used for functions such as parties and meetings. 3. A large bow drawn by hand and shooting a long feathered arrow. 4. A swollen edible bulb used as a vegetable, having a pungent taste and multiple layers. 5. The process of exact thinking. 6. Inflammation of the pleurae, which impairs their lubricating function and causes pain when breathing. 12. A room that can be made completely dark to allow the processing of light sensitive photographic materials. 14. Relating to, constituting, or habitually practising mimesis. 17. One of the Benue–Congo languages spoken in Nigeria. 20. To or at a distance from a particular place or person.

ORDER YOUR PHOTOS TODAY

Feb 20 to March 20

Try to visit a country that excites you. Try to stay calm, and whatever you do, don’t nag. Unrealistic promises will only get you in trouble. You’re in the mood to party.

PAGE 24 The Express, Wednesday, March 4, 2020

LIKE US & JOIN OUR FACEBOOK FRIENDS!

4092 3464 www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

CLASSIFIEDS phone us: 4092 3464

email us: admin@theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Church Notice

In Memoriam

Presbyterians continue to meet in Mareeba for worship each Sunday 10am, QCWA Hall, Wilkes Street (behind Meals on Wheels) ~ All Welcome!

In Memory of my Sister,

“Happy are those who spend their days in the pursuit of knowledge, in the discovery of the secrets of the universe, and in the meticulous investigation of truth!” ~ Bahá’u’lláh Join Mareeba Bahá’í Community for Prayers, Readings and Refreshments: Saturday 7th March - 12 Midday, Centenary Park, Mareeba More information: 0409 815 526 www.bahai.org.au

Isabella Briggs (Merletti) 17/05/58 – 06/03/17

If roses grow in Heaven Lord, Please pick a bunch for me. Place them in my Sister’s arms and tell her they’re from me. Tell her that I love and miss her and when she turns to smile, Place a kiss upon her cheek and hold her for a while. Because remembering her is easy, I do it every day. But there is an ache within my heart that will never go away.

Always in our hearts. Your loving sisters, Angela, Lorenza, Pia Margaret and families.

Courses/ Training

First Aid Courses

In Loving Memory

Aaron Zenel 13.10.82 – 05.03.07

Malanda RSL

Thursday 20th February Thursday 5th & 19th March

Your life was a blessing, Your memory a treasure.

Call 0412 046 588 Boats

BOAT & JETSKI LICENCES ~~~ MOST DAYS ~~~

TEL: 0404 545 848 www.boatlicencecairns.com Did you know...

You can read each edition online and that all our local stories are FREE to read and always will be? www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au for all your FREE local news!

Public Notice MAREEBA LIONESS CLUB ARE HOLDING A

COMBINED BOOK SALE & CAKE STALL With all funds going to the Mareeba Animal Refuge

Saturday 7th March - 8am Onwards At the Mareeba Library, Byrnes Street

Garage Sale

Is someone you know celebrating a special birthday?

RFDS Near & Far Auxiliary

Garage/ Clearance Sale

Sausage Sizzle Saturday, March 7th Stan Moses Hall

(attached to the Anglican Church, Atherton)

8am to 4pm

Wish them a Hap py Birthday with a pers onal ised mess age in the pape r!

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

You are loved beyond words, Missed beyond measure.

Mum, Dad, Damon, Grandmum, Uncle Robert, Aunty Chris, Teresita, Rosita and Joseph.

Funeral

Livestock

DEBBIE BOARDMAN

BULLS excel temp qual & b/lines mostly poll Warrina droughtmasters Ph 0428 976 345.

Funeral Celebrant Final farewells with respect. Phone 0410 328 357

Skip Bins

SKIP BINS AVAILABLE

Storage S E L F - R E M OVA L Storage. 6 Meter units for hire. $150 per month. Phone 0418 772 791.

ALL SIZES PHONE 4095 5182

Butcher

Lost/ Found

BILL Black Mobile Butcher. Hang up to 7 days. 0408 922 812.

Sony Digital Camera & soft case

HAVE you got a position vacant? Phone 4092 3464 today to discuss advertising.

For Sale

FRESH MANGOES!! JUST PICKED!

MOTOR MECHANIC

$15 PER TRAY OR $5 PER BAG

WANTED OPERATIONS MANAGER With farming experience for mixed organic farm, Atherton Tablelands (negotiable permanent salaried position). Interested persons please email: oaklandsfarming@gmail.com For details.

Make your ad stand out froM the rest...

add CoLour!!

4121 Kennedy Highway, Emerald Creek

FOR SALE

CANEGROWERS TABLELANDS VEHICLE Mazda CX-9 Classic 2015 Automatic ✓ Front wheel drive ✓ Fully Serviced ✓ Good Condition ✓ 119,000 kms ✓ Sold with RWC

Q-MSC2020-05 JUM RUM WALKING TRAIL REFURBISHMENT Mareeba Shire Council hereby invites written tenders for the delivery of works to include the renewal of asphaltic bitumen pavement, steps, plastic edging and bridge platforms on the Jum Rum Walking Trail at Kuranda. Please note there will be a mandatory site visit at 3.00pm on Wednesday 4 March 2020. Tender documents are available on Council’s online e-procurement system, Tenderlink - www.tenderlink.com/msc. All enquiries or clarifications must be via the online forum which will close 3 days prior to closing time. Council officers are unable to respond to verbal or emailed enquiries. The closing time for electronic lodgement of Tenders is 11.00am, Thursday 19 March 2020. Council reserves the right to invite all tenderers to change their tenders to take account of a change in the tender specification. Regulation 228(7) of the Local Government Regulation 2012 may be applied. Tender will not be opened publicly. The lowest or any tender not necessarily accepted. Peter Franks CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER PO Box 154 Mareeba, QLD. 4880

For further information please contact: Claude on 0419 021 012 or Angela on 4092 6065 or email tbl@canegrowers.com.au

2008 VOYAGER SPORTS CRUISE DELUXE 20’ MULTI HULL PONTOON BOAT Excellent condition, regularly maintained and serviced.

MARCH

Email The Express today admin@theexpressnewspaper.com.au

T-MSC2020-03 REGISTER OF PRE-QUALIFIED SUPPLIERS OCCASIONAL PLANT HIRE Mareeba Shire Council hereby invites written submissions from Contractors wishing to be included on a Register of Pre-Qualified Suppliers for occasional plant hire from 1 July 2020 to 30 June 2021. Tender documents are available on Council’s online e-procurement system, Tenderlink - www.tenderlink.com/msc. All enquiries or clarifications must be via the online forum which will close 7days prior to closing time. Council officers are unable to respond to verbal or emailed enquiries. The closing time for electronic lodgement of Tenders is 11.00am, Tuesday 24 March 2020. Regulation 228(7) of the Local Government Regulation 2012 may be applied. Tender will not be opened publicly. The lowest or any tender not necessarily accepted. Peter Franks CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER PO Box 154 Mareeba, QLD. 4880

$18,000

What’s Coming Up? 8th Atherton Lions Club Indoor Markets. Merriland Hall, Atherton - 7am to 12noon. 8th Mareeba Seed Savers and Gardening Group Meeting notice - come anytime from 10am - 4pm. Michael & Lindy Alba, 17 Middlemiss St, Mareeba. Guest speaker at 1pm.

Tender

Possibly fallen from vehicle on Riverview Tce or general Mareeba town area around 9th-12th Feb. Please call and leave message on 4092 4847 or Piagnos News or MBA Police Station. Reward for return or info

Position Vacant ~~ Spena’s Service Centre ~~ Busy workshop in Mareeba requires a fully qualified motor mechanic. Well above award wages for the right applicant. Contact John on 0458 921 059 Or email: spenas@internode.net.au

fax us: 4092 6346

BRAND NEW upholstery, NEW canvas Bimini, Suzuki 90HP 4 stroke motor (little hours used), 9 passengers, 9 life jackets, tachometer, depth sounder, built-in fuel tank, dual batteries, full set clears and large front boarding ladder. All can be inspected at Tinaroo!

PRICE $32,500

Phone John 0456 027 476 Or George 0427 954 752

Q-MSC2020-06 SUPPLY & DELIVERY 4X2 SINGLE CAB UTE HI-CLEARANCE Mareeba Shire Council hereby invites written submissions for the Supply & Delivery 4X2 Single Cab Ute - Hi-Clearance. Tender documents are available on Council’s online e-procurement system, Tenderlink - www.tenderlink.com/msc. All enquiries or clariﬁcations must be via the online forum which will close 3 days prior to closing time. Council ofﬁcers are unable to respond to verbal or emailed enquiries. The closing time for electronic lodgement of Tenders is 11.00am Tuesday 10 March, 2020. Regulation 228(7) of the Local Government Regulation 2012 may be applied. Tender will not be opened publicly. The lowest or any tender not necessarily accepted. Peter Franks CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER PO Box 154 Mareeba, QLD. 4880 CALL The Express Newspaper on 4092 3464 by 4pm every Friday to place for your Classified advertisement.

The Express, Wednesday, March 4, 2020 PAGE 25

EXPRESS SPORT PORT Young hockey star set Disappointing weekend to play for Queensland for Mareeba cricket Talytha with former Kookaburra captain Mark Knowles at a Peninsula trial in 2017.

YOUNG Atherton hockey player Talytha (Shorty) MacDonald will trade the sun soaked fields of the Far North for the bustling city scapes of the south after being selected in the U15 Queens-

land Hockey team. The 15yr old recently attended the trials for the team in Brisbane and will now travel to Bathurst in NSW to compete in the Australian Championships.

Hockey has been a part of Talytha’s life since she was five years old, and she currently plays in four different hockey teams one of which is in Cairns. The Division 1; U16 competition, the Atherton Open Ladies team the Shooters, the Tableland Tomahawks and the Saints in Cairns are just some of the teams she plays for, she has also played in many representative teams. An Atherton Tablelands Hockey Association spokesperson described Talytha as a “great inspiration” to young members of both the club and the wider community. “Shorty is a great inspiration to the young people both in our club and community,” they said. “We are very proud of Shorty’s attitude and determination, on and off the field. “It goes to show that even kids from small country towns can get selected to represent their state.” Talytha has been working extremely hard to get to this stage in her sporting career, training multiple times a week and playing in age divisions’ way above her own. Parents Maria and Wayne Macdonald are brimming with pride at their young daughters selection. “We are over the moon, I’m ecstatic,” Maria said. “All her hard work has really paid off. “Her goal is to play for Australia so she’s one step closer.” Talytha will travel down to Bathurst between April 17-23, 2020 to compete in the Australian Championships.

MAREEBA Cricket had a disappointing weekend with both teams falling short and losing their respective games. Mareeba seconds hosted the Port Douglas Muddies at Borzi Park on Saturday in hot and humid conditions. Mareeba won the toss and sent Muddies into bat looking to strike early and disrupt the Douglas batting order. This was not the case however with Douglas hunkering down and getting to a reasonable total of 5/162 after their allotted overs. Mareeba looked solid early but the order couldn’t hold up, with just a few batsmen making

it into the double digits Mareeba quickly collapsed and fell short. Mareeba finished all out for 116, 46 runs short of a semi-final win and crushing their hopes for a grand final performance. Mareeba thirds also suffered a heavy blow losing their game to Mulgrave Kerala at Walker road on Saturday. The toss was won by Mareeba and they decided to send Mulgrave into the field. It was perilous batting on a pitch that was prepared in only two days; chaos ensued with neither team having any idea about what the ball was going to do. Mareeba was all bowled out

for a measly 49 runs, but on the pitch they played on, victory was still within their grasp. Opening bowlers Rhys Thomas and Vernon Jansen took ball in hand and set about rupturing the Mulgrave top order taking early wickets for barely any runs. Mulgrave pulled away however with one of their batsman punishing the Mareeba bowling attack for any mistakes. Mulgrave passed Mareeba’s total in the 12th over, ending up 4/50. Mareeba thirds will be going up against Barron this coming Saturday at Borzi Park, starting at 12.30.

Dressage club opens doors for first event of the year

Mandy Hayes riding Sandro's Lilly at an ATDDEA training weekend last year.

Volunteers Sought - Interested persons please visit:

crimestoppersqld.com.au/volunteer

PAGE 26 The Express, Wednesday, March 4, 2020

THE Tablelands Equestrian Dressage Club (ATDDEA) is kicking up its feet in wake of its first training weekend this Saturday and Sunday. Formed in 2006 the ATDDEA educates riders on the art of Dressage, teaching and then eventually entering them into competitions. Competitions can range from the local competition, all the way to the Olympics. Dressage is an equestrian

competition where the horse and rider perform a series of predetermined movements which include changes of pace from walking, trotting and cantering; the horse and rider are judged on the smoothness and accuracy of these transitions and movements. The ATDDEA’s first event of the year is a training weekend this coming weekend at Keribee Park. Interested riders are welcome to come along with na-

tionally accredited coaches and judges to assist riders. The competition starts in May and will run through to September when the Championships are held. For more information about your local dressage club head to www.tablelandsdressage.com. au/ or contact Jane Knight ATDDEA Secretary via email bobjaneknight@bigpond.com

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

EXPRESS SPORT PORT

Atherton defeat Rovers to claim one-day title

ATHERTON’S first grade side have put in another dominant performance with a 5 wicket win over Rovers to take out the Cricket Far North one-day premiership in front of a strong home crowd at Loder Park. It was Atherton’s second of a possible three 2020 titles after claiming the two-day competition trophy back in January. Fired up by Rover's midweek media comments Atherton went to work early using a combination of pace and spin to grab

valuable early wickets. Seppe Barletta and Dan Parnell's opening four over spells had the visitors 3-21. Dan’s dismissal of dangerman Brenton Edwards proved a turning point as Rovers struggled to form partnerships. Atherton's bowlers were consistent and economical and backed it up in the field in a good allround team effort. Dylan Pettingill took the final three wickets for 4 runs to have Rovers all out for 122 in the 40th over.

Atherton had their tails up as they went out to chase the total, but got off to a shaky start losing 3-12 to the Rovers pacemen before Paul Nasser and Fred Pittorino steadied things with a 56 run partnership. Michael Salerno joined Paul at the crease with the score 5-84, and the two put their heads down, batting out the innings to reach the target in the 31st over. Another man-of-the-match performance from Paul Nasser 74 runs not-out off 93 balls with

nine fours and a six, and bowling figures of 1-24 of 9 overs. The competition now moves to a T20 format with Atherton playing two home games at Loder Park this Saturday, March 7 – 8.30am Atherton v Barron River and 3pm Atherton v Rovers. Results: 1st Grade - Atherton 123 (P Nasser 74*, F Pittorino 22, M Salerno 10*) Def. Rovers 122 (D Parnell 4-29, D Pettingill 3-16, S Barletta 1-7, T Boorman 1-24, P Nasser 1-24).

Atherton man of the match on Sunday Paul Nasser.

Atherton Cricket is on a high after winning all three grand finals contested over the weekend with titles going to the junior Jimmy Maher Cup Tier 3 Blue side, the senior second and first grade teams. The juniors won their semi-final on Saturday over Mulgrave White before moving through to defeat Tully/Mission Beach on Sunday in the grand final. Atherton 4-69. On Sunday, Atherton’s second grade side had a comfortable win over Mulgrave Punjabi while in the first grade decider Atherton defeated Rovers.

Junior bowler Tallas Blaney.

Batsman Paul Nasser finished with 74 not in first grade.

Junior batsman Campbell Palmer.

First grader Chris Adams.

First grader Michael Salerno

EST. 1918

Junior bowler Riley Lennon.

Atherton second grade batsman Ken Webb.

First grader Seppe Barletta opened the bowling on Sunday.

SEASON 102

It’s back for 2020!

RUGBY LEAGUE ACTION PRE-SEASON TRIALS THIS SATURDAY MARCH 7

Atherton International Club Oval At ATHERTON’S MUNGALLI CREEK DAIRY STADIUM

• Lower Grade Action from 5pm

Including the Atherton vs Ravenshoe Under 12s at 6pm

• 7PM: KAP CUP

Hit 97.9 Tablelands First Grade

CHAMPIONS: Atherton’s Jimmy Maher Cup Tier 3 Blue junior grand final winners on Sunday. Photo Lea Coghlan.

AN Atherton Junior Cricket team claimed top honours in the Cricket Far North Jimmy Maher Cup (Blue) one-day series, winning an epic grand final against Tully on Sunday. Having beaten Mulgrave

White in the semi-final on Saturday by a convincing 69 runs, the team backed up for a grand final appearance at Morrow Park, Tolga. The team bowled Tully out for 68 and reached 69 to win the

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

game, with six wickets in hand. It was a fitting end to the oneday series for the team which finished on top of the table. Red ball action continues on Saturday with the start of a fourweek T20 competition.

ROOSTERS vs MT ISA MINERS

MATCH DAY PARTNER

FOOD AND REFRESHMENTS ON SALE • Howe Farming Chook Pen Bar • Sign Hub Clubhouse • Poggioli Farming 100 Year Bar

The Express, Wednesday, March 4, 2020 PAGE 27

2001 NISSAN PULSAR LX MANUAL SEDAN

$3,950 DRIVE AWAY

2014 MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER ES AUTO WAGON

$14,950 DRIVE AWAY

2016 FORD FIESTA AMBIENTE HATCH

2015 TOYOTA FORTUNER GXL 4X4 WAGON

$13,490

$36,990

Automatic, one owner, only 16,400 kilometres, 12 months warranty.

7 seater turbo diesel auto, nudge bar, tinting, 6 months rego, 12 months warranty.

USED VEHICLES 2010 MITSUBISHI CHALLENGER LS AUTO WAGON

$15,950 DRIVE AWAY

2016 HONDA JAZZ VTi AUTO HATCH

$16,950 DRIVE AWAY

›› 16 TOYOTA HILUX 4X4 WORKMATE DUAL CAB: Turbo diesel manual, steel bull bar, tow bar, reverse camera, fibreglass canopy, 12 months warranty ........... $33,990 ›› 16 FORD FIESTA AMBIENTE HATCH: Automatic, one owner, only 16,400 kilometres, 12 months warranty .................................................................................. $13,490 ›› 15 TOYOTA FORTUNER GXL 4X4 7 SEATER WAGON: Turbo diesel auto, nudge bar, tinting, 6 months rego, 12 months warranty ............................................................$36,990 ›› 15 SUBARU XV-S GX4 WAGON: Comp 1/16, 2.0 litre auto AWD with leather trim, alloys, electric seats, rear camera, sat-nav, 12 months warranty ...............................$24,990

2017 MITSUBISHI LANCER BLACK EDITION AUTO SEDAN

$18,950 DRIVE AWAY

2015 HYUNDAI SANTA FE ACTIVE AWD AUTO WAGON

$26,950 DRIVE AWAY

WARRANTY AVAILABLE ON ALL USED VEHICLES - ENQUIRE TODAY! ALL PRICES INCLUSIVE OF GOVERNMENT STATUTORY CHARGES.

COMPETITIVE FINANCE AND INSURANCE AVAILABLE

›› 14 HYUNDAI ELANTRA SE SEDAN: 1.8 litre manual, alloys, partial leather seats, 12 months warranty...................................................................................................................................$10,490 ›› 14 TOYOTA PRADO GXL WAGON: Comp 1/15, turbo diesel, tow bar, one owner, 12 months warrenty ..........................................................................................................$43,490 ›› 13 TOYOTA LANDCRUISER GXL UTILITY: Steel tray, steel bull bar, side rails, tow bar, 12 months warranty ............................................................................................$48,990

COMING SOON! ›› 16 LANDCRUISER GXL UTILITY ›› HYUNDAI SANTA FE AWD DIESEL 7 SEATER WAGON Prices include government transfers, stamp duty and registration.

313-315 Byrnes Street, Mareeba • 4092 5100 www.mareebamitsubishi.com.au • www.mareebamazda.com.au After Hours: David Mete 0408 793 050 Peter Acha 0417 006 698 or Adrian Madrid 0413 745 247

HANSEN FORD Andrew Ford: 0417 633 002 - Claude Formoso: 0477 229 949 - Drew McKenzie: 0400 068 700 279 Byrnes Street, Mareeba - 4092 9400 - www.hansenford.com.au

Go Further

COMPARE OUR PRICES

...WHY PAY MORE? DEMO OF THE WEEK

2019 SUBARU LIBERTY 2.5I PREMIUM AWD CVT SEDAN Luxury model with leather trim, sat-nav and adaptive cruise control. REDUCED TO $36,990 DRIVE AWAY

USED CARS IN STOCK  14 MAZDA BT-50 XT: 3.2 litre turbo diesel 6 speed manual 4x4 dual cab utility, travelled 134,000 kilometres, fitted with fibreglass canopy, slide out drawer, auxiliary battery, tow bar, electric brakes, anderson plug, steel bull bar, spotlights, sidesteps, reverse camera, GME UHF radio, locally owned well maintained vehicle in excellent condition ........................................................................................ $27,990  17 NISSAN QASHQAI ST: 2.0 litre CVT wagon, travelled 71,000 kilometres, reverse camera, sold and serviced by us, well maintained local vehicle ........................ $21,490  15 TOYOTA RAV4 GX: 2.5 litre auto AWD wagon, travelled 33,900 kilometres, rear parking sensors, cargo barrier and mat, full service history, excellent condition ..... $25,990  14 TOYOTA HILUX SR: 3.0 litre turbo diesel manual 4x2 single cab with heavy duty alloy dropside body, tow bar, travelled 84,500 kilometres, excellent service history ...... $20,690  17 SUZUKI VITARA GL: 1.6 litre auto 5 door wagon, travelled 43,000 kilometres, ex-company vehicle, sat-nav and reverse camera, plenty of factory warranty remaining, excellent condition ...................................................................................... $20,990  16 NISSAN X-TRAIL ST: 2.5 litre CVT 4x4 wagon, travelled 89,000 kilometres, local vehicle in good condition, reverse camera ............................................................ $21,490  15 HYUNDAI iMAX: Turbo diesel auto 8 seat wagon, travelled only 47,500 kilometres, ideal family mover with diesel economy, rear parking sensors, in excellent condition.... $31,490  16 MAZDA CX-5 MAXX: 2.0 litre auto wagon, travelled 64,300 kilometres, reverse camera, good service history, smart looking vehicle ......................................... $22,790  17 MAZDA CX-5 MAXX: 2.0 litre wagon, travelled 60,000 kilometres, reverse camera, good condition service history, excellent condition .............................. $24,890

Chano Trentin’s

NAVARA N-TREK

WARRIOR TAKE THE HARD WAY

AROUND VIEW® MONITOR

INTELLIGENT AROUND VIEW® MONITOR

HILL DESCENT CONTROL INTELLIGENT TRACE CONTROL Like anything in life, the hardest path is always the most rewarding. If that’s the route you choose to take, the new Nissan Navara N-TREK Warrior’s locally developed uplifted suspension package and 32.2” all terrain tyres will take you there. Re-engineered for Australia’s toughest conditions and with Hill Start Assist and Hill Descent Control, the N-TREK Warrior is designed to tackle any terrain. Test drive the toughest and most capable Navara at your local dealer today.

Chano Trentin’s HILL START ASSIST

INTELLIGENT LANE INTERVENTION

ALL WHEEL DRIVE CENTRE

AFTER HOURS: Con Spanos 0417 914 285 • www.allwheeldrivecentre.com.au

HILL TRACE Vernon St, Atherton • 4030 5400 • www.allwheeldrivecentre.com.au ADAPTIVE CONTROL

TOLGA ROAD, ATHERTON • PHONE 4030 5400

PAGE 28 The Express, Wednesday, March 4, 2020

FRONT-LIGHT SYSTEM