Drug Offences on the Tablelands
A drug charge on the Tablelands carries the same penalties as a charge in Cairns — but the circumstances around it are often different. Properties are larger, distances are greater, and the consequences of a criminal record in a region where everyone knows everyone can follow you in ways a city charge does not. Your matter will be listed at either Atherton or Mareeba Magistrates Court depending on where the offence occurred. Sacha travels from Cairns to appear at both courts — same preparation, same fixed fee, no travel surcharge.
What You Are Facing
Drug offences in Queensland fall under the Drugs Misuse Act 1986 . The charge depends on the substance, the quantity, and what the prosecution says you were doing with it. Possession under section 9 is the most common drug charge at both Atherton and Mareeba. It covers having a dangerous drug in your control — whether found on your person, in your vehicle, or at your property. For a first offence…
Drug Diversion on the Tablelands
If your charge involves possession of a small quantity for personal use, drug diversion may resolve the matter without a conviction and without an entry on your criminal history. Queensland's diversion laws changed in April 2026. The old three-tier system was repealed and replaced with the Illicit Drug Enforcement and Diversion Framework. Most information published online still describes the old…
Cannabis on the Tablelands
Cannabis charges are common on the Tablelands. The charge you face depends on what police found. Small quantity in your possession — a bag in your car or on your person is typically charged as possession. For a first offence, drug diversion or a no-conviction order may be available. Plants on your property — even a single cannabis plant is charged as production under section 8, not possession. The…
Which Court Hears Your Matter
Atherton Magistrates Court — matters from Atherton, Yungaburra, Herberton, Ravenshoe, Malanda, Millaa Millaa, and the southern Tablelands. Mareeba Magistrates Court — matters from Mareeba, Kuranda, Dimbulah, Chillagoe, Mount Molloy, and the northern and western Tablelands. Both courts hear the full range of drug offences — possession, supply, production, and drug diversion applications. Matters…