Cairns Local News March 14 2025

Revealed: Uni’s new campus

l CAIRNS CBD

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

CQUNIVERSITY has revealed what its proposed Grafton St campus will look like as well as appealing for more government cash to complete the $87.5 million development.

Construction is set to begin at the end of 2025 opposite the Cairns Convention Centre with $50m funding from the Australian Government.

However, the university is calling for extra funding of $27.5m from both the federal and state governments to include an allied health and engineering building to address skill shortages in the region.

CQU intends to provide an extra $10m for the wing and in total it would boost student numbers by 2000 to 6000 and add another 13 new courses, including medical imaging and occupational therapy.

The council is changing their rating from ‘retirement villages (category R)’ into the same category as ‘multi-unit dwellings (category L)’. “This change aims to address inequities compared to other multi-dwelling properties and ensure that every dwelling makes a fair and reasonable contribution towards the infrastructure and services that council delivers,” the council says in a letter to residents.

Residents’ spokeswoman Judy Holzheimer said retirement villages served a very different purpose and were unique.

The 100-plus residents of the 77-unit complex are fighting back but were not invited to a meeting involving Oak Tree managers, area councillor Cathy Zeiger and council chief financial officer Lisa Whitton to discuss the increase yesterday.

“This has come as a shock,” she said.

Mrs Holzheimer said each unit occupier did not own their property but paid hundreds of thousands of dollars for a ‘licence to occupy’ until they left Oak Tree.

CONTINUED PAGE 3

The project – including the additional allied health building – is scheduled for completion by the end of 2027 for a total cost of $87.5m.

CQU vice chancellor and president Professor Nick Klomp said the new campus would mean a boost in students, new programs and better outcomes in the retention of graduates.

CONTINUED PAGE 3

Oak Tree Retirement Village residents (left) Alan Holzheimer, Captain John Larsen, Margaret Richards and Judy Holzheimer who are fighting an 800 per cent rates increase. Picture: Nick Dalton

Local News Cairns

Keeping it in the family

Why three siblings followed teacher-mum into education careers

l TULLY

WHEN Olivia, Caitlin and Marcus Luxford of Tully were contemplating their career paths –mum Annette was front of mind.

“Ever since a young age, becoming a teacher has always been a career I had thought about pursuing,” CQUniversity Bachelor of Education (secondary) with distinction alumnus Olivia Luxford said.

“Mum has probably been the biggest influencing factor in choosing education. Watching her raise five kids as a single mother while teaching full-time has been nothing short of an inspiration,” she said.

“Although we witnessed the amount of work she takes home, the extracurricular hours involved, and at times other challenges, nothing could scare us off the profession.

“Growing up it was very evident that she made a lasting positive impact on her students and this was something I desired to replicate.”

Olivia, 25, is the eldest of the three siblings and said her family had faced a lot of childhood adversity with the death of their sister and father.

“Many children live with all sorts of hardships every day. My biggest reason for wanting to become a teacher is so that I can be a safe adult in my students’ life, who is always there to listen, support their wellbeing, guide and help develop their resilience so that they can overcome adversity.

“I’ve always wanted a rewarding job that can make a

positive impact in people’s lives and I have found that in teaching.”

Growing up in the small town of Tully in North Queensland, the Luxford siblings always knew the importance of community, family and education.

Raised in a household where teaching was, not just a profession but a passion, it’s no surprise that all three have ended up following in the footsteps of their mother, choosing to dedicate their lives to shaping young minds.

Caitlin, 21, is the middle of the three siblings and her jour-

ney into teaching wasn’t immediate. After initially pursuing a degree in physiotherapy, she quickly realised that her heart was somewhere else.

So, encouraged by her mum and also her sister Olivia’s positive experience at CQUniversity, Caitlin transferred into CQU’s Bachelor of Education (primary), eager to inspire young learners.

Marcus, 18, is the youngest of the three and, although he initially pursued a school-based apprenticeship in plumbing, he too soon realised that his true passion was elsewhere.

Encouraged by Caitlin and Olivia’s experiences, future student Marcus decided to pursue secondary education, with aspirations of teaching manual arts and biology or mathematics.

To achieve his ambition to become a teacher, Marcus has enrolled in CQUniversity’s Skills for Tertiary Education Preparatory Studies (STEPS) program, which will allow him to transition into a Bachelor of Education.

“I have to do the STEPS program because I dropped one of my ATAR subjects (chemistry) in the second semester of year

11 when I started my schoolbased apprentice in plumbing,” Marcus said.

“I am looking forward to starting STEPS as it means I will be able to start my degree in July.”

All three are now well and truly on their pathways to education, with Olivia already teaching, Caitlin soon-to-be teaching and Marcus a few years away from becoming a teacher. This year Olivia is teaching years 7, 8 and 10 science, year 10 HPE and year 11 and 12 biology at Good Counsel College in Innisfail.

Centacare sets up disaster resilience support shop

l CASSOWARY COAST

CENTACARE FNQ’s experienced team of mental health workers, case managers and community development specialists are opening a disaster recovery and resilience ‘support’ shop in Tully on Monday to help Cassowary Coast residents in the aftermath of the recent flooding disaster. Their local disaster response team will be available Monday to Friday from 9am to 4pm at

33c Butler Street, Tully (former Work Ways building).

Centacare FNQ executive director Anita Veivers said muchneeded help was on its way to the residents of Cassowary Coast impacted by the January 2025 weather event.

“Our incredible team and strong partnerships with the Tully Neighbourhood Centre and community mean we can hit the ground running,” she said.

From Monday, for at least the next six months, Centacare

FNQ will maintain an active presence in Tully and throughout the Cassowary Coast, ensuring that help is readily available for everyone affected and in need of support.

“Centacare FNQ will extend its disaster support services with community outreach that includes a pop-up shop in Cardwell and a series of support team visits to Mission Beach and South Mission Beach,” said Ms Veivers.

Centacare FNQ’s suite of disaster support services includes

case management, system navigation, mental health assistance and community outreach.

To learn more, telephone 0467 776 553 or email IntakeCommunityRecovery@centacarefnq.org

Appointments are not required but can be scheduled via the contact details above.

To check the latest updates and information for Centacare FNQ’s Disaster Recovery and Resilience Hub, visit

Centacare FNQ’s Facebook page https://bit.ly/4kL5MTF

The Luxford family (from left) Caitlin Luxford, Keith Gilbert (uncle), Olivia Luxford, Marcus Luxford, Erin Luxford (sister), Annette Luxford (mother), and Paul Gilbert (grandfather). Picture: Supplied

Centacare FNQ executive director Anita Veivers.

CQU adds desired third wing to new campus

FROM PAGE 1

“It will be an amazing modern campus that will provide 45 courses to the Cairns community, but it’s more than just a building, a campus like this provides so much more opportunities,” he said.

“People that are finishing school and thinking about university but couldn’t afford to move down south to follow their chosen career will be able to stay in Cairns.

“This has been enabled by a $50m commitment by the federal government in the last election. We’ll start building later this year to be completed by the end of 2027 in time for the first term of 2028 intake.

“In the last 12 months, when the funding was initially released and we started the detail planning alongside the workforce, we uncovered an opportunity. Instead of allowing for a capacity of 4000 students in this campus, we could add a wing. We call it the health and engineering wing because it’s those areas of allied health and nursing and all the disciplines of engineering that are so desperately required in this region.

“We can add that wing at

the same time and be doing it within the same period, so we’ll still finish by the end of 2027 and it will cost $37.5m.

We’re asking for all the major parties to get behind Cairns, get behind CQU and commit to $27.5m of extra funding.

“We need these graduates now and Cairns shouldn’t be forced to wait again and again for the sort of things

that are available in metropolitan areas at all times.”

Prof Klomp said the additional wing would address critical shortages in the engineering and health industries and create more jobs.

“These courses allow us for the flexibility and the innovative ways of using labs and simulation labs for different disciplines,” he said.

“And this new wing allows us to build the capacity from 4000 (in the original plan) to 6000 (with the additional wing). A few years ago, we didn’t think that Cairns needed that, but then we’ve worked out the workforce demand on all the skills required for a future workforce and we’ve realised that we need to futureproof this.

“We’ve done the numbers, we’ll have enough staff to do this, we’ve also done the sums and 86 per cent of CQU Cairns graduates stay in Cairns, so how is that for a return on investment?”

Mr Klomp said that if there was no government funding the project would go along without the health and engineering wing.

Valley project approved

Developer plans start on industrial precinct after objections fail

l REDLYNCH VALLEY

| Nick Dalton

LANDOWNER and developer Pat Flanagan plans to start his controversial industrial precinct in the Redlynch Valley as soon as possible after it was approved by Cairns Regional Council this week.

The Curranda Trades and Services Development Area on Redlynch Intake Rd was given the green light – with strict conditions – after rigorous debate at the council on Wednesday.

Councillors voted narrowly five to four for the project despite nearly 280 objections (32 submissions were in support) as well as a petition of 1000-plus

signatures against the proposal.

Crs Brett Moller, Cathy Zeiger, Trevor Tim, Anna Middleton and Rhonda Coghlan voted for the officers’ recommendations that the precinct go ahead. Against were Mayor Amy Eden, deputy mayor Brett Olds, Cr Rob Pyne and divisional representative Kristy Vallely. Cr Matthew Tickner removed himself from the debate and decision-making due to a conflict of interest because of his town planning business.

Mr Flanagan told Cairns Local News that he was “very happy with the council decision”.

He said he was “always confident, having addressed all the issues”.

Mr Flanagan said he “respect-

ed” the concerns of the objectors. They included incompatibility with the rural-residential area, increased traffic, flooding and environmental impacts.

He said he had people desperate to start operating on the site which allowed storage facilities, builders’ yards and other light industry uses. Cairns has almost run out of new industrial land.

Mr Flanagan said he would seek permits to start as soon as possible.

“We expect to start very quickly after the appeal process ends,” he said.

Campaigner Margo Dean said she was “absolutely devastated” with the decision.

“I’ve got no words … I’m not

functioning at all,” she said.

“I don’t know what we will do. We’re talking about it. Some want to appeal but there’s the money factor.”

Cr Vallely, who represents the area, said she voted against the development despite being harassed, bullied and intimidated on social media.

“I understand that many people feel strongly about this development and their concerns are valid,” she said.

“However, resorting to defamatory harassment is never acceptable.” Cr Vallely accused objectors of “irrational moblike behaviours”.

Deputy Mayor Brett Olds said “this is not what you expect if you live there”.

“It’s a rural zone. They don’t expect to have shopping centres and have footpaths everywhere,” he said.

“We’re elected to be the voice of the community and we should listen to them when they stand up. It’s not a NIMBY thing – not in my backyard.

“People have chosen to live in these areas and the decisions we make in this room, there are consequences to them.”

Division 1 councillor Brett Moller said the development would help provide muchneeded industrial land, adding it would be obscured by a 10m high buffer, while division 3 councillor Cathy Zeiger also backed the need for more lowimpact industry sites.

Elderly shocked by rates increase

FROM PAGE 1

“This is a very different situation from multi-unit dwellings where the resident either owns the unit or pays rent to an owner of the unit,” she said.

“Almost all residents of Oak Tree Retirement Village rely on the aged pension and most have no extra income from investments.

“Residents are responsible for the payment of a weekly service charge per unit which includes council general rates and water rates (calculated as the total rate levy divided by 77).

“Furthermore, because they own a licence to reside, they are not eligible for government rental assistance.

“The council’s proposed rate category change represents an 800 per cent increase in the general rate payable by the residents. This alone represents a 15 per cent increase in the weekly service charge for each unit that residents are required to pay.”

Mrs Holzheimer said $20.63 a fortnight might not seem much but, like the rest of the community, pensioners were struggling to survive.

“Many are living from pension to pension. We have a St Patrick’s night coming up and (husband) Alan, who is the treasurer, has been collecting $10 a head. Some have told him they can’t pay until pension day.”

Other residents Captain John Larsen and Margaret Richards said the rise was “disgusting”.

Cr Zeiger (Div. 3) said it was “a big shock and upsetting” for the residents but it also applied to all retirement villages in Cairns, including Aveo, Regis, Botanica and others.

But, she said, it was about fairness and equality.

Cr Zeiger said the rate restructuring had been on the backburner since COVID and in the recent cost-of-living crisis.

She said the villages had not been paying “proper rates” for quite a while and it was time they were brought into line with other multi-dwelling complexes. They would be paying the lowest rate applicable. Cr Zeiger said the residents were eligible for pensioner subsidies which amounted to $320 each a year and also there were payment options to make it manageable.

An artist’s impression of CQU’s new CBD campus in Grafton St. Picture: Richard Kirk

Sold-out: IWD noon soiree

l CAIRNS CBD

| Isabella Guzman

Gonzalez

CAIRNS Business Women’s Club commemorated International Women’s Day (IWD) last week with a sold-out lunch at The Reef Hotel Casino where women in business shared their stories, insights and vision for the future.

IWD was a momentous occasion for the Cairns Business Women’s Club. Not only was it their first event of the year, but it was their first sold-out IWD lunch with 145 participants from all industries and all types of businesses from small to big companies.

The day included two dynamic panels, one of women in the aviation and emergency services, industry including representatives from Cairns Airport, Nautilus Aviation, Jetstar and Australia Border Force’s detector dog unit and a multicultural services panel.

CBWC president Sarah Debono said it was exciting to start the club’s calendar with a sold-out event.

“This is our first ever sold-out year, which is really amazing and it’s also the first time the event has more non-members than members participating, which is exciting for the club,” she said.

“Supporting women all the way from micro business to big business and corporate business is very important to us. Our board comes from all of those backgrounds, so we understand the struggles.

ness are underrated but we’re a growing breed, so it’s nice to be able to promote other women in business.”

“Our goal this year is to make sure that people have their opportunity to say something about themselves and their business to grow that forum. Women in busi-

Panelist Kesa Strieby from the Cairns and Region Multicultural Association Inc and Wujal Wujal Aboriginal Shire Council said it was encouraging to see so many women supporting women.

Shweta Goyal (Kimaya), Kesa Stribey (Cairns and Region Multicultural Association) and Kathryn Sinner (Nautilus Aviation).

Kirsten Buttigieg, Nann Adams and Nadine Sleeman from NAB.

LNP candidate for Leichhardt Jeremy Neal and artist Connie Rovina.

Jennifer Bartlett and Gina Malenstein from Villa Vaucluse.

Leanne Bates and Rochelle Prien from Pro Form Tops. Pictures: Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

Woman of the year commands respect in the maritime industry Splash park underway

l PORT DOUGLAS

CONTRACTORS have arrived on site at the $4.75m splash park at Port Douglas.

They were aiming to begin on the highly-anticipated project this week.

Preliminary works by Townsville-based JMac Constructions at Jalunbu Park, Garrick St, include bulk earthworks and installing plumbing and electrical components.

Mayor Lisa Scomazzon said the anticipated completion date was in late July.

“The progress of this project is weather dependent but (the) council is confident the community will see this amazing new park operating in the second half of this year,” she said.

“I can’t wait to see the project completed. The new splash park is poised to become a social hub for young families, both locals and visitors alike.”

Cr Michael Rees said the community would love it.

“This is a much-anticipated project and I’m very grateful for all the hard work over many years the council has put towards this,” he said.

“Parents, grandparents and kids are going to be thrilled.”

The council has received grants totalling $2.53m from the Queensland Government for the park. The council deferred $1.72m from capital works projects to help pay for the park.

Making waves for years

l EDGE HILL

A TRAILBLAZER who has been making waves for more than a decade in the traditionally male dominated maritime industry has been named Cairns Regional Council’s woman of the year.

Courtney Hansen, the owner and managing director of North Marine, received the accolade at the International Women’s Day Awards ceremony at the Tanks Arts Centre last Saturday.

She told the gathering that passion and dedication could lead women to succeed in any endeavour.

Ms Hansen said gender was not a barrier, but an opportunity to be fearless and courageous.

Breaking barriers as a mentor and advocate for gender equity in the maritime sector, she has been reshaping the maritime services industry by creating employment and leadership opportunities for women.

With over 15 years of experience, her career has spanned charter fishing, dive operations and commercial freight shipping.

A Master 4 skipper, she made history as the first permanent female captain for Northern Australia’s largest freight shipping company, Sea Swift, commanding a 50m, 1300-tonne landing barge across the Australia’s east-

ern seaboard, the Torres Strait, Gulf of Carpentaria and Darwin.

Ms Hansen is also a dedicated mentor who is passionate about supporting aspiring leaders and an advocate for Indigenous education programs.

Young woman of the year was Claudia Kurowski, a passionate advocate for social justice, gender equity and youth empowerment.

As the co-founder of The Gratitude Initiative, she has championed the needs of women, girls and children across Australia. A rising leader in governance, she served as the youngest member of the 29th Queensland Youth Parliament, where she was elected chief government whip.

Michelle “Shelly” Langford received the 2025 women’s rec-

ognition award for her contribution to maternal care in Cairns and Far North Queensland.

With over a decade of experience as a birthworker, perinatal bodywork therapist and community leader, she has dedicated herself to supporting women through pregnancy, birth and postpartum. She founded Gulagbi, a not-for-profit organisation focused on helping Aboriginal,

Torres Strait Islander, and Papua New

women give birth on country, preserving cultural birthing traditions.

Cairns Mayor Amy Eden said it was “ not always easy being a female leader, but as this year’s extraordinary award winners demonstrate, we do it because we care about our community and the kind of future we are creating for generations to come”.

Guinean

Cairns International Women’s Day award winners (from left) are Michelle ‘Shelly’ Langford, Mayor Amy Eden, Courtney Hansen, Claudia Kurowski and Kira Hourigan. Picture: Cairns Regional Council

Green group blasted by MP Entsch in row over trust’s ‘deception’

l DAINTREE

| Dave Lornie

FEDERAL Member for Leichhardt Warren Entsch has blasted an environmental group raising funds for the Daintree in what he calls “blatant deception”.

Mr Entsch has accused the Gondwana Rainforest Trust of “misleading donors by falsely claiming that land in the Daintree Rainforest is at risk of development”.

At the centre of the controversy is Lot 92 Cape Tribulation Road, a property the group is actively fundraising for and stating that it must be saved from destruction.

However, Douglas Shire Council has confirmed that the site is not at risk of development under any circumstances.

A spokesman for the council told the Gazette, “(the) council can confirm that the lot 92 Cape Tribulation Road is within a protected zone and has no development rights”.

“The claims being made by Gondwana Rainforest Trust are completely false,” Mr Entsch said. “They are telling donors that

this land is under imminent threat of clearing and development, when in reality, it is zoned for conservation and cannot be built on, cleared or developed in any way.

“Yet Gondwana is still running a public misinformation campaign – claiming that Lot 92 is zoned for development – to con well-meaning donors into thinking they’re ‘saving’ something that was never in danger in the first place,” Mr Entsch said.

He said the trust was soliciting donations with misleading claims that the Daintree rainforest was under threat.

He said these advertisements used sensationalised imagery and even featured Sir David Attenborough, despite no evidence that he had endorsed their campaign.

Mr Entsch said this raised serious legal and ethical concerns.

Mr Entsch, who calls himself “a long-time advocate for balanced environmental conservation that respects both the land and the people who live there”, said groups like Gondwana Rainforest Trust “do not engage with local communities but instead operate as ideological ac-

tivists. “For decades, we have seen outsider groups parachute into the Daintree and dictate to the locals as if they don’t belong there,” he said.

“This is yet another example of a group profiting off deception while undermining the very people who actually live in and care for this environment,” he said.

Mr Entsch is now calling for the appropriate authorities to investigate.

Gondwana Rainforest Trust chief executive officer Richard Christian said “there are several factually incorrect statements” in Mr Entsch’s claims.

“The fundamental one being that it is based on historic aerial imagery. He states that Lot 92 was not lawfully cleared in the past. This is incorrect and completely undermines the credibility and validity of Mr Entsch’s allegations and position,” he said.

“Mr Entsch should check his facts as publicly available aerial imagery from the 1980s and as recently as 1994 clearly show that this property was completely cleared in the past,” Mr Christian said

Dementia Carers

Rotarians mark 95 years

l BUNGALOW

| Isaac Colman

A CENTURY of service to the Cairns community is now only five years away for the Rotary Club of Cairns, with past and present members, community leaders and supporters coming together to celebrate the organisation’s 95th anniversary.

Hosted at Aumuller St’s Bungalow Hotel, attendees lifted high the theme of honouring the club’s legacy and ongoing commitment to service above self.

Founded in 1930, the Rotary Club of Cairns is

part of Rotary International, a global organisation committed to humanitarian service, promoting peace, and advancing goodwill worldwide.

Since its establishment, the club has been at the forefront of numerous initiatives that have made a lasting impact on the Cairns community and beyond, with the year 1946 seeing the construction of Martyn St’s YAL building.

Holding a consistent and strong emphasis on youth, the club has recently sponsored more than 20 students as part of the Rotary Youth Exchange Program, now also

supporting a bursary with the FNQ Youth Assistance Fund.

Ian and Carol Allen were recognised for their contribution of almost 50 years with The Paul Harris Fellow Recognition award. Rotary Club of Cairns president Ellen Gardiner said organisers were "thrilled to celebrate this occasion", with over 60 guests attending.

“Our 95th anniversary is a testament to the unwavering dedication of our members and the support of our wonderful community in Cairns assisting with our fundraising,” she said.

Rotary Club of Cairns president Ellen Gardiner (left) with Paul Harris Fellow Recognition recipients Ian and Carol Allen and Rotary Club of Cairns West president Sam Dyer. Picture: Rotary International.

Evie’s striding for diabetes

l CAIRNS ESPLANADE

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

EVIE Taylor, 9, walked into Cairns Hospital last Easter with a suspected stomach bug and left with a diabetes diagnosis.

Now she’s advocating for diabetes patients, even organising a OneWalk in Cairns to fundraise for a cure next weekend.

On Sunday, March 23, Miss Taylor, with the support of her mum Penny Taylor and her family, is organising the JDRF OneWalk from the Funship Playground on the esplanade from 8.30am to fundraise for diabetes research to find a cure and are aiming to raise $6000.

It has been a challenging year for the Brinsmead resident after an unexpected diagnosis of type 1 diabetes but it has not slowed her down. Instead she turned her experience into a journalistic report called ‘Diseases and broken bones

– a trip to Cairns Hospital’ that earned her a junior eisteddfod award and next Sunday, along with dozens of Cairns residents, she’s walking to fundraise for a cure.

“Just after Easter last year it looked like Evie had a tummy bug,” said Mrs Taylor.

Farmers consider future after sugarcane

Rice could be the next crop

l MOSSMAN

| Nick Dalton

RICE could be the next crop sugarcane producers could be farming in the Mossman area.

With the Mossman mill now closed and just one more harvest crushed at the Gordonvale mill, farmers are considering what’s next.

More than 20 from Mossman to the Burdekin attended a meeting at Gordonvale to discuss the opportunity to develop a north Queensland rice industry.

past, however there currently was no viable market, despite rice being well suited to the region’s climate and soils.

“The group discussed opportunities to leverage off this success, as well as recent small-scale projects assessing tropically adapted rice varieties to develop a local industry that would complement established agricultural industries such as sugarcane,” she said.

the most appropriate market opportunities. This research will also help inform the variety selection program, ensuring farmers grow varieties that are suited to the available markets.

3. Infrastructure for storage and processing, including economic feasibility studies to identify the most suitable location and processing equipment required.

Ms Billing said farmers and stakeholders had agreed to work together to develop the concept further and seek funding for the three key investment areas.

“She was vomiting, and then she got really lethargic, I couldn't wake her up and she started slurring her words. At that point, I took her into hospital, and she was diagnosed on the spot.

injections and what would be her new normal and about two months later she got an insulin pump.”

“Evie spent two days and two nights in the ICU and five days in the children’s ward learning about

Miss Taylor said it brought her joy to bring awareness and support others living with type 1 diabetes.

To participate or donate, visit https://bit.ly/4buaKzU

They were joined by interested stakeholders from organisations including Farmacist, Regional Development Australia, Department of Primary Industries, Cairns Regional Council, Tropical Agricultural Food Industry Network (TAFIN), Cassowary Coast Regional Council, Rabobank, Mulgrave MP Terry James and the Department of Natural Resources and Mines, Manufacturing and Regional and Rural Development (DNRMMRD).

Farmacist extension leader Belinda Billing said North Queensland farmers had successfully grown rice commercially in the

“Farmers attending from Mossman were looking for an alternative to sugarcane after the recent closure of the Mossman mill and were hopeful that the concept would be supported by stakeholders, providing them with the opportunity to grow a crop they feel confident will thrive in their region.”

Ms Billing said the group raised three key areas for investment required to progress the concept:

1. A variety selection program. There are hundreds of varieties of rice that could be grown and recent trial work has shown that the rice varieties previously grown for NSW buyer SunRice are not the best suited to the northern climate, with others proving more productive and robust.

2. Market research to identify

Renaissance in Rome

Gordonvale farmers Charlie and John Piccolo successfully grew rice from 2015 to 2022 and are leading advocacy efforts for a local rice industry.

“We have grown many different commercial crops in our fallows and have found that rice is the most reliable, the best suited to our climate and was a great crop to rotate with our sugarcane,” Charlie Piccolo told the meeting.

“We believe that diversifying our income is important to maintain farm sustainability and with local processing facilities and the right varieties we can do this with rice, which is just so well suited,” he said.

Type 1 diabetes patient Evie Taylor is organising a OneWalk to fundraise to find a cure for diabetes. Picture: Supplied

Lettersto the editor

WANT TO BE HEARD? send your text to 0473 424 877 or email letters@cairnslocalnews.com.au

Alan Benn, Kanimbla

Last week we asked readers: What do you think about the plans to revitalise Palm Cove? Here are just some of your comments.

Maybe spend some money in some of the other northern beach suburbs where it’s needed, like Machans Beach, before wasting it in Palm Cove.

- Warren Davies, Facebook

The proposal would completely destroy the charm of Palm Cove.

- Cheryl Weller, Facebook

If it goes ahead, there will be ‘no fishing’ signs everywhere.

-John Marsh, Facebook

Other suburbs need infrastructure improvements etc. Palm Cove is not the only suburb in Cairns.

- Vick Kandiah, Facebook

Progress fuels prosperity. Growth is necessary for a thriving community. I think this is a great proposal.

-Alaina Woolcock, Facebook

I see Tourism Palm Cove president Matthew Cork thinks having cruise ships off-shore at Palm Cove instead of Yorkeys Knob is a good idea. So where are all the tenders and passengers going to dock? Sometimes thousands of passengers will be onboard. Then the required area to manage everyone. Also around 50-60 plus coaches etc to park? Maybe replace the lagoon with a coach park. Then the extra traffic from the coaches. At least Yorkeys has the space for all of this. Any way good luck with his suggestion.

- David Stephens, Facebook

The van park brings in so much money and helps the economy keep moving. A lagoon isn’t at all necessary as every resort has its own pool. Where will all these tourists go who use the van park?

- Charlie Raymond, Facebook

Richardson,

Have your say: City precincts urban regeneration

The CBD’s population is projected to grow by 36% in the next 25 years.

We want our CDB precincts to be vibrant, liveable and resilient. That’s why we’re developing a plan to guide future infill and higher density to support growth and housing diversity.

Drop in to one of our free information sessions to find out more and have your say on how we can make the CBD the next in-demand residential address.

haveyoursay.cairns.qld.gov.au/city-precincts

Date: Monday 17 March 2025 Time: 5pm to 6.30pm Or Date: Tuesday 18 March 2025 Time: 4.30pm to 6pm

Location: Cairns Regional Council – Civic Reception Room 119-145 Spence St Cairns

ONLINE

Scan the QR code at right or visit the project website.

Lynn Layton, Trinity Beach

Ann Wakefield, Innisfail

Bob

Gordonvale

Gazza’s Gossip

In honour of tireless women

l PORT DOUGLAS

INTERNATIONAL Women’s Day

(IWD) officially took place last Saturday, March 8, with events taking place all around the world.

Port Douglas was no exception, with a lunch held at Salsa Bar and Grill on Friday, the day before.

This was the 28th IWD lunch to be held in Port and was attended by over 100 ladies from the Douglas Shire.

This event is one of the major fundraiser events for the Port Douglas Neighbourhood Centre, with proceeds going to provide free counselling sessions for Douglas Shire families (144 sessions were provided last year).

Entertainment was arranged by local musical director Jennifer Kerr, with support from some of the talented cast of the Clink Theatre’s next exciting production, ‘Mamma Mia!’.

Guests also enjoyed a mini fashion show featuring dresses, shoes and accessories from the NicNak Shed Op Shop.

The history of this annual day began well over 100 years ago in 1908, when 15,000 women took to the streets in New York protesting for shorter hours, better pay and voting rights.

Other issues addressed included terrible working conditions and exploitation.

The following year, the Socialist Party of America announced a National

Women’s Day to honour the strikers and in 1910 it went global with the Socialist International voting for the creation of a Women’s Day to advocate for suffrage.

The first IWD was held in 1911 and more than a million people turned out to rallies in Europe.

For most of the 20th century IWD was acknowledged and celebrated by people at the grassroots level, a rallying point for social justice.

It wasn’t until 1975 that the United Nations adopted IWD on March, as it still is today,

This year’s official United Nations theme for IWD was ‘For all women and girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment.’

The key aim of the day is to rec-

ognise how far we’ve come towards gender equality and also how far we have left to go. Back in 1911, only eight countries allowed women to vote, equal pay for equal work was unheard of if women were allowed to work at all and reproductive rights were nonexistent.

Without doubt, things have come a long way, from women not being able to vote, to now leading countries.

While they faced restrictions on where they could worked, they are now running corporations.

In countries, such as Australia, women have rights their grandmothers could only have dreamed about, but many around the world are not anywhere near as close to that goal.

Even in Australia, despite domestic violence laws, public awareness and access to legal protections, men are still killing women partners or ex-partners at the rate of one a week.

All up, much progress has been made, but there is still more to be achieved.

Hence the need for events such as the one last Friday.

Naturally a great time was had by all as part of the day.

I’m off to raise a glass to all of our local ladies, so for now it’s Gazza signing out.

Send your stories to gazza@ cairnslocalnews.com.au

Above, far right, and below: Lots of happy faces at Salsa Bar and Grill, Port Douglas, while (above, middle) Erica Mast, Angela Whittaker and Andrea Cameron, from The Clink Theatre, provide the entertainment at the recent International Women’s Day lunch in Port Douglas. Pictures: Supplied

Health and Beauty

Good hearing vital to health

Listening crucial to overall wellness and making lives better for everyone

l AUDIO HEALTH

HEARING health is, not only essential for experiencing the sounds of life, but it also plays a vital role in promoting overall wellness.

Overall, hearing helps maintain the functionality of various brain regions involved in auditory processing, language, memory, attention and perception.

Emotional, mental and physical health are negatively impacted by hearing loss, including:

• Cognitive function – linked to an increased risk of dementia and cognitive decline. The Achieve study published in The Lancet suggests that using hearing aids may potentially reduce the risk of developing dementia by up to 48 per cent in high-risk individuals. This highlights the importance of maintaining good hearing health for overall brain health

• Hearing is the #1 modifiable risk factor in dementia.

• Communication – Hearing enables us to understand and interpret spoken language, which is important for social interactions and maintaining

emotional well-being.

• Safety and awareness – Good hearing health enhances our situational awareness, allowing us to navigate our surroundings safely and respond appropriately to potential hazards.

• Our ears and brain must work harmoniously together for both to work well.

Join AudioHealth’s Hearsupport group to learn how to improve your hearing and communication and be empowered with a deeper understanding of your hearing health in a supportive community environment.

Available is free independent advice on all things hearing, guidance and tips on communication skills, hearing device performance, hearing technology accessories and apps all made easy. Current research about the latest insights and research on brain health and the startling links to hearing loss.

Understand tinnitus, how your ear works, hearing technology and more.

Learn from a group of hearing experts with decades of experience and a goal of transforming

hearing healthcare awareness.

With ‘thousands of ears of experience’ and a passion to change lives we will unlock the wonders of the ear. We are dedicated to educating and empowering individuals, enabling them to make informed decisions about their hearing health and inspire proactive steps toward achieving better hearing.

Contact community support coordinator Birgit on 4041 7860 for details of their inaugural meet- up launched during Hearing Awareness Week.

AudioHealth is also educating the public and general practitioners with insights into the ear, the latest research and innovative solutions on how to enhance this sense.

Join Joanna Magee and Dr Annette Counsel to hear the latest.

Ms Magee has just returned from three days of seminars showcasing the latest research and products to assist with hearing and is ready to impart this to participants.

Register for the free informational seminar by calling AudioHealth on 4041 7860 or via their website www.audiohealth.com.au

Hearing is critical to living a strong and healthy life no matter what your age.

Picture: iStock/SIphotography

Savannah Sounds reveals stellar musical line-up for Port Douglas Carnivale

Resort town ready to party

l PORT DOUGLAS

| Nick Dalton

SAVANNAH Sounds has released its line-up for Port Douglas Carnivale in May, featuring now proud Port Douglas resident Glenn Shorrock as well as Sheppard, The Black Sorrows, The Wolfe Brothers and Max Jackson.

Curated by Sound Australia, the team behind Savannah in the Round at Mareeba, the festival will see the best of live music at the Savannah Sounds Park Precinct at Rex Smeal Park, with a Friday night DJ Sounds party, before headline events across Saturday and Sunday, May 24 and 25.

Sound Australia director James Dein said with such a diverse line-up and strong community support, he was confident Savannah Sounds would be a key event for music lovers and a major tourism draw for

Tropical North Queensland.

“We are more than excited to bring Savannah Sounds to Port Douglas as part of Port Douglas Carnivale,” he said.

“This festival is a fantastic opportunity to showcase amazing musical talent and celebrate the region’s vibrant energy.”

The festival kicks off with DJ Sounds on Friday, May 23 where the Savannah Sounds Park Precinct will come alive with performances from electronic artist Zoe Badwi and Andy Van, with Jolyon Petch closing out the party.

Saturday kicks off with a ‘Beach Party’ at Four Mile Beach, where local DJs set the tone from 11am, followed by Jolyon Petch.

The music then moves to Savannah Sounds Park Precinct, where an exciting line-up includes Kairos Kin, Max Jackson, The Wolfe Brothers, Sheppard and The Black Sorrows.

The festival wraps up on Sunday May 25, closing out Port Douglas Carnivale with an all-day music program kicking off from midday through to 8.15pm. with the last day of the music program at the precinct.

The day will start with The Katie Richards Band, followed by performances from Eddie Skiba, El Moth, Little Steely Brothers, headliner Glenn Shorrock, and beloved local act Roadtrippers to finish off on a high note.

Building on the success of Savannah in the Round, which generated over $9.4 million in direct economic impact in 2024, Savannah Sounds Port Douglas is set to similarly boost tourism and local businesses while highlighting world-class musical talent. For more information, including the full lineup and ticket details, visit https://bit.ly/3Fixozy

Czech couple bring taste of France and Italy to Trinity Beach

l TRINITY BEACH

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

A CASUAL fine-dining experience immersed in a European atmosphere featuring classic French-Italian flavours is coming to the northern beaches when Bistro Corretto in Trinity Beach opens its doors to locals.

Next week, Bistro Corretto will start trading with the aim of becoming the place where locals can eat a high-quality meal in an inviting and casual environment. The official opening is taking place next Wednesday, March 19.

Bistro Corretto is owned by husbandand-wife duo Jakub Ledvinka and Tyna Sedivakova, originally from the Czech Republic. They have called Australia home for almost seven years now and they want to bring the flavours of Europe to Cairns with Bistro Corretto.

“Bistro Corretto is a small, European-inspired restaurant-bistro at Trinity Beach on Rabaul St,” Ms Sedivakova said.

“It’s quite a small restaurant, it can only seat 22 people, it’s more of a family-owned business where you have a nice atmosphere and serve high quality food from local suppliers,” she said.

“It’s going to bring a mix of traditional French and Italian cuisines with a modern tropical twist and we’ll have a lot of nice Australian wines from small wineries, especially from South Australia and Western Australia, and we’d like for people to pair the food with these wines and enjoy the atmosphere.

“I’d love it if people could sit down and enjoy our high quality meals made with high quality ingredients that come from here. We’ll also have very unique wines, so I hope people can enjoy the overall experience.”

Bistro Corretto will bring classic European dishes like filet mignon, steak

tartare, pasta, a selection of house breads, like baguettes and focaccias, plus vegetarian meals like gazpacho soup and fregola with beetroot.

“Jakub has over 20 years of experience in kitchens across Europe, USA, New Zealand and Australia and he has refined his craft in some of the most respected restaurants in the industry, including Bar Carolina in Melbourne and Fugazzi Bar and Dining Room in Adelaide,” Ms Sedivakova said.

“I’ll be taking on the role of manager and I’m also a devoted wine enthusiast.”

To find out more about Bistro Corretto, visit https://bit.ly/3QTc1Hg

Singer Glenn Shorrock, who now lives at Port Douglas, is part of the Savannah Sounds line-up for Port Douglas Carnivale. Picture: Occhio Photography

Jakub Ledvinka and Tyna Sedivakova. Picture: Supplied

Art with ancestral linkages

Explore the talented paintings which reveal the stories of families and culture

l EDGE HILL

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

IN an exploration of thy self and culture, six First Nations artists will showcase 15 artworks, their family’s stories, day-to-day lives and the culture and ancestry that feeds their art in UMI Arts season opening exhibition You & Me.

The exhibition also marks the beginning of the 20th anniversary of UMI Arts.

You & Me will feature 15 acrylic paintings by six First Nations artists, from Hopevale to Cairns, showcasing what makes them who they are, their daily lives and their ancestry to make for an alluring mix of colours and styles.

UMI Arts exhibition and gallery officer Aleksandra Kostic D said You & Me was an opportunity to explore every artist’s particular style and story.

“This year is particularly significant for UMI Arts because we’re celebrating 20 years and we’re opening this 2025 season with You & Me,” she said.

“We have three women artists coming from the Hopevale Arts Centre in Esmae Bowen, Wanda Gibson and Daisy Hamlot and we have Shane Gibson from Hopevale, Peter Kulla Kulla from Northern Peninsula and Kassandra Savage from Mossman.

“All 15 artworks are very specific. Every artist showed their free style to

explain and reflect their family and ancestors stories. The stories behind these artworks are very interesting, they explain, not only the artwork itself, but their tradition and culture.”

Waanyi Kurtijar woman Kassandra Savage is exhibiting three paintings of brolgas which highlight both her great grandmother’s totem and her relationship with her husband.

“I’ve got three paintings of brolgas. My inspiration comes from seeing them most of my life when I’m travelling and recently I learned that brolgas were my great grandmother’s totem, so that’s where my inspiration comes from,” she said.

“I find brolgas very elegant and majestic birds and their dancing is just amazing, I’ve been privileged to see them dancing on Country. When you research them you realise they mate for life and stay with the same partner.

“One of my paintings is called ‘Still dancing’ and my husband and I are celebrating 32 years of marriage this year which I wanted to portray in my artwork. My other piece, which also represents us, is ‘Stronger together’ which shows that if you have challenges in your life, we have each other to lean on, we get strength from each other and draw strength from our ancestors.”

You & Me opens tonight at 6pm.

The exhibition will be displayed until April 24. For more information, visit https://bit.ly/4iou3gl

Line dancing to fundraise for COUCH

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

PLAY it

Again Line Dancing

Cairns is polishing their cowboy boots for a good cause, as they prepare to host a fundraising dance event next week for COUCH after the group’s beloved founder and teacher was diagnosed with Hodgkin Lymphoma.

Play it

Again Line Dancing Cairns dance instructor and founder Sybil Cumming has always loved line dancing, the intricacy, the music and the fitness of it, which is why she started a class eight years ago after moving to Cairns. Since then, one class has

turned into six and a couple of students into almost 100.

In December when Mrs Cummings was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma she had already organised their next social but after the news it became a fundraiser.

The event is taking place at the Edge Hill Progress Association Hall on Mayers St on Thursday, March 20 from 9am to 12.30pm. Entry costs $10 and there will be raffles and lots of prizes with all profits donated to COUCH to support people living with cancer in Cairns.

“The support I’ve received from the line dancing community has been absolutely incredible,” Mrs Cumming said.

“Some people are not even coming to the event, just donating. My students are, not only buying raffle tickets, but donating to the raffle. If I look tired at class, they take over and ask me to sit.

“For the last three or four weeks people have been supporting the event. They’ll show up to class with a shopping bag to add to the raffle and even other line dancing groups are getting involved and helping.

“My social events are very popular. We have people from Mareeba and Tully coming and it’s a good opportunity for beginners and also the more advanced dancers to try their steps and moves. I won’t be able to be there because that

day I have my first session of chemo but it’ll be a very fun morning and I encourage people to join.”

Mrs Cumming said she didn’t know about COUCH before the fundraiser but it was comforting knowing that support services like this were available. “A friend was the one who told me about COUCH. I had cancer before when I lived in Sydney and I struggled so much, I felt abandoned,” she said.

“To know that there’s somewhere I can go and meet people under similar circumstances or who’ve had similar experiences is really comforting.”

For more information, contact Mrs Cumming at 0414 992 324.

UMI Arts’ exhibition and gallery officer Aleksandra Kostic D and artist Kassandra Savage with the painting ‘Stronger together’ exhibited at the You & Me exhibition. Picture: Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

l MANUNDA

Play it Again Line Dancing Cairns dancer Nicky Morgan and founder Sybil Cumming are inviting everyone to join their line dancing social fundraiser to support COUCH and people living with cancer in Cairns. Picture: Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

TimeOut

Blues to liven up the Tanks International flair adds to music show

l EDGE HILL

GET ready for a powerhouse line-up of blues and roots legends as Tanks Arts Centre welcomes an epic series of performances in the intimate setting of Tank 5. This unmissable program features Australian music royalty, Grammy-winning talent and some of the country’s finest blues artists.

Leading the charge is none other than Ross Wilson, the legendary frontman of Daddy Cool and Mondo Rock burning up the stage tonight from 7.15pm. With a career spanning over five decades and hits like ‘Eagle Rock’ and ‘Come Said the Boy’, Wilson remains one of the most dynamic performers in Australian rock and blues. Audiences can expect a night filled with iconic anthems and raw energy from a true master of the craft.

Adding international flair to the lineup is Ruthie Foster, a

Grammy-winning blues powerhouse whose masterful storytelling and vocal chops compared to greats Aretha Franklin and Mavis Staples, has captivated audiences worldwide.

Hailing from Texas, Foster seamlessly blends blues, gospel and folk influences, delivering performances that are both uplifting and deeply moving. Her show at Tanks Arts Centre on Sunday, March 23 is set to be an unforgettable experience for blues lovers.

“All I can say is prepare yourself for a hallelujah time,” Ms Foster said.

“You may cry, you may laugh, you may sing with me and I’m OK with all of that. I’m so looking forward to returning to Australia and coming to Cairns for the first time.

“We decided to call it Mileage (album and tour) because it talks about all I went through. This album says it all from the last couple of years to 10-20 years back and I’m very proud of it.”

The Bondi Cigars, one of

Australia’s most enduring blues bands, will bring their signature mix of hard-driving rhythm and bass-loving blues to the stage on March 28. With over 30 years of touring and multiple acclaimed albums, their infectious grooves and masterful musicianship make them a must-see act.

Supporting the Bondi Cigars is Dana Gehrman, a Queensland Music Awards nominee and a regular on the blues festival circuit. With a vintage sound and a commanding stage presence, Gehrman channels the spirit of 1970s rock and blues with a contemporary edge, making her the perfect complement to an already stellar lineup.

With each artist bringing their unique take on the blues, Tanks Arts Centre is set to become the ultimate destination for lovers of soulful, guitar-driven music.

Don’t miss this opportunity to experience world-class blues in one of Australia’s most unique live music venues.

Tickets are available on https://bit.ly/4gJbhz5

Blues artist Ruthie Foster is coming to Cairns at the Tanks this March. Picture: Supplied

WHAT’S ON

CAR BOOT SALE @ CAIRNS MEN’S SHED

l SAT MAR 15TH, 7:30AM-1:00PM

Cairns Men’s Shed is holding a Garage and Car Boot Sale at our premises at 186 Irene Street Mooroobool (next to the football grounds) to raise funds for our community projects.

Items for sale: tools, plants and orchids, books, CD’S, paints, hand crafted wooden toys (vars and trucks), clothes, turned timber items, bric-a-brac, sausage sizzle, cold drinks and lots more.

Car Boot sites cost $20.00 - Contact Bruce Bimrose on 0407889430

EASTER TRIVIA @ CAIRNS CHORAL SOCIETY

l SAT MAR 22ND, 6:30PM

Calling all trivia buffs!

Get ready to flex those brain muscles and join us for a night of trivia, fun, and friendly competition!

Don’t miss out! Register to participate no later than March 18th.

Phone Jill to register on 0412 516 820.

WOMENS SELF DEFENCE @ MACHANS BEACH

l SAT MAR 22ND, 11:00AM

Our self-defence workshops aim to teach self-defence in a realistic and practical environment, while boosting your confidence and improving street awareness.

We cover multiple escapes, striking, holds and locks, confronting situations, situational awareness, weapon threats, dealing with fear and adrenaline and so much more.

Ages 13+

There are limited spaces, so book now: phone 0499 577 667.

Additional class available March 23rd.

FLAME @ THE TANKS

l FRI FEB 28TH, 9:00AM-4:30PM

Inspired under the guidance of artists Jamie Cole, Daniel Wallwork, Holly Mervyn-Jones and Olivia Azzopardi, the young artists learned new skills, demonstrably building their confidence in their creative abilities and artistic expressions.

The ‘FLAME Visual Project’ is made possible thanks to the ongoing support and generous donation by Paul Matthews.

Cost: Free, Runing until 30th March

Launch event at 6:00pm, Friday February 28th.

Image: Naiya Duff, Fond of You, 2024, coloured pencil, posca marker, oil pastel.

ARE WE SETTLED YET? @ THE TANKS

l FRI FEB 28TH, 6:00PM

‘Are We Settled Yet?’ is a photographic portrait exhibition featuring young subjects from Africa and Asia dressed in costumes and adornments that represent their dearly treasured cultural heritages. Akriti Rai arrived in Cairns as a refugee from Nepal in December 2022, attending Trinity Bay State High School as a year 11 student in 2023. There she befriended Sylvine Rahabu, a refugee herself from the Democratic Republic of Congo. Akriti’s portrait of Sylvine won her the Tanks Arts Centre Curators’ Award at the Energy exhibition 2024. Cost: Free, running until 30th March.

Launch event at 6:00pm, Friday February 28th.

Image: Duality (detail) photograph by Akriti Rai, 2024

BUSINESS LUNCHEON @ REEF HOTEL CASINO

l TUE MAR 18TH, 11:30AM

Join the Cairns Chamber of Commerce for our March Business Luncheon and gain valuable industry insights from Mark Olsen, chief executive officer of Tourism Tropical North Queensland. Mark will deliver a comprehensive tourism industry update, highlighting the latest trends, research and data. Deepen your understanding of the current state and future outlook of tourism in our region. Whether you’re a business owner, industry professional, or simply passionate about the tourism sector, this event is a must-attend. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to connect and learn! Cost: $69 Members | $89 Non-Members | $552 Table of 8 Book via www.cairnschamber.com.au/events

GIG Guide

*Please check with the Venues regarding any cancellations or entry requirements.

FRIDAY 14TH

Farnorha Home INFINITY DUO, 1:30pm

Dunwoody’s Shannae Sclippa, 4:00pm

Salt House Amber Farnan, 5:00pm

Ellis Beach Bar & Grill Katie Richards, 5:30pm

Innisfail RSL Grey Area, 6:00pm

Surf Club Palm Cove Joe Lanskey, 6:00pm

Trinity Beach Sports Club Grey Area, 6:00pm

West Cairns Bowls Club Jim Sackley Hot Country Band, 6:00pm

Yorkeys Knob Boating Club Davo, 6:00pm

Boardwalk Social Groove Therapy, 6:30pm Cazalys Cairns Kickstart, 6:30pm

Atherton International Club BIG PUPS, 7:00pm

Brothers Leagues Club innisfail Carinda Christie, 7:00pm

The Jack INCARNATION - In Heart’s Wake + Ocean Sleeper, 7:00pm

TANKS Ross Wilson, 7:15pm

Club Mossman Rockin’ Rick DJ, 7:30pm

The Pier Bar DJ Jackz, 7:30pm

Rattle’N’Hum Palm Cove Bourban Gorillas, 8:00pm

Salt House DJ Matt Caseli, 8:00pm

The Pier Bar Flavour, 8:00pm

BAR36 Back to the 80s - Big Noise + DJ B Ezy, 8:30pm

Rattle’N’Hum Cairns Andrea & The Fly Guys, 8:30pm

BAR 94 CHAOS - SAFIRE + JAHLO + DIEGO, 9:00pm

The Cotton Club K-Pop Night - DJ Nakji, 9:00pm

P.J.O’Brien’s Cairns Sanchez Brothers, 9:30pm

P.J.O’Brien’s Cairns DJ Nakji, 10:00pm

SATURDAY 15TH

The Yoga School Sound Angel - Renee Cashman, 12:00pm Cairns Presbyterian Church Cairns Classical Music Group, 2:00pm

The Jack UND3RGRND - STOOKEY + BRYAN B + SKIPPY + NEPTUN3 + TEKNIQUE (NL) + DISCORD + SELECTAH SSANDMAN + 50 KAL + NO KEYS, 2:00pm

Strait on the Beach Waiting for Alice, 3:00pm Yorkeys Knob Boating Club Lexi & Waha, 3:00pm Narrow Tracks Distilling Amber Farnan, 4:00pm Salt House Anais Campbell, 5:00pm Ellis Beach Bar & Grill Archipelago Iguana, 5:30pm Boardwalk Social Callum Brauer, 6:30pm Cazalys Cairns Hot Ice, 6:30pm Brothers Leagues Club Cairns INFINITY DUO, 7:00pm The Pier Bar DJ Dyzzie, 7:30pm

Rattle’N’Hum Palm Cove Janna Mercedes, 8:00pm Red Beret MOEFO, 8:00pm Salt House DJ Matt Caseli, 8:00pm The Pier Bar GTA, 8:00pm BAR36 BACK TO THE 80S - Big Noise + DJ B Ezy, 8:30pm Rattle’N’Hum Cairns Flavour, 8:30pm Heritage Nightclub SOCIAL CLVB - MCMILLAN TWINS + NO HAT NO

PLAY + MIMI + KOBY WATSON + RILEY + MX, 9:00pm

P.J.O’Brien’s Cairns Sanchez Brothers, 9:30pm BAR 94 FEMME TECHNO TAKEOVER, 10:00pm

P.J.O’Brien’s Cairns DJ Syntax, 10:00pm

SUNDAY 16TH

Ellis Beach Bar & Grill Kaweyova Duo, 1:00pm Skypark Cairns by AJ Hackett Bryan Bergman, 1:00pm CPAC Mark Vincent, 2:00pm Dunwoody’s Amber McIntosh, 2:00pm West Cairns Bowls Club Oaktree Rockers, 2:00pm Club Mossman Wait-a-While Duo, 3:00pm

Rattle’N’Hum Palm Cove Cam Kettle, 3:00pm

The Beach House at Trinity Waiting for Alice, 3:00pm Yorkeys Knob Boating Club Barbary Coasters + INFINITY DUO, 3:00pm

Boardwalk Social Colorful Blac, 4:00pm O’Sheas Wind and Wood, 4:00pm

The Pier Bar DJ Nakji, 4:30pm

The Pier Bar GTA, 5:00pm BAR36 MOJITO, 5:30pm

Are you a venue or an artist that wants to be listed in the Gig Guide? Complete the form on www.cairnslocalnews.com.au/gig-guide to submit your gig each week to be listed in Friday’s paper.

Take a minute... Puzzles for you

You may have a problem dealing with elders. You need to sit back and enjoy. Satisfy your passionate mood. Don’t hold yourself back because you think you’re too old.

CROSSWORD

You need to spend some time reflecting on past experiences and involvements. Opportunities to get ahead are evident. Changes in your home are apparent, and you must be willing to bend if you don’t want to find yourself alone. Get involved in the activities of children. They will teach you far more than you expect.

Your leadership ability will enhance your reputation. Don’t forget family obligations. Your creative imagination will help you in coming up with unique ideas. It is time to clear your decks.

You won’t get the reaction you want from your mate this week. You might find that co-workers will support your endeavours. Try to be honest when dealing with your mate. You can easily impress others with your generous nature.

Don’t let others take advantage of your good nature. Children will keep you busy. Let others know what your intentions are and be honest in your approach. Take care of any pressing health problems.

Outings with relatives or good friends will provide you with stimulating conversation. You can’t always have your own way. You must not make unnecessary changes this week. Secret affairs will only lead to heartache.

You will find that you can work progressively at improving yourself this week. Your high energy must be directed into productive goals, or frustrations will occur. Look into intellectual and physical games that will test your abilities. You can get a great deal accomplished if you bring work home.

Home improvement projects will go well if you delegate tasks. Focus on your own goals and ignore what you can’t change. Get involved in worthwhile endeavours and meet new friends. Control your spending to keep debts in check.

you don’t use good judgement. You must strive to get the most important projects completed properly, rather than doing everything in a half-baked way.

Beware of colleagues who don’t have your best interests in mind. Take matters in hand when it comes to dealing with clients or colleagues. Generosity will put you in the poorhouse. Recognition will be yours if you meet your deadline.

25. feeling nauseous or unwell due to the motion of a boat (7)

27. on or inside a ship (7)

29. a type of large, open boat traditionally used by Inuit and other Arctic peoples (5)

30. requiring the use of both hands (3-6)

31. the rear part of a ship (5)

32. the main body or frame of a ship, boat, or other vessel (4)

33. a small, narrow boat with high sides (4) DOWN

1. the duration of an individual’s life (9)

2. a large, open space or structure used for sports, entertainment, or public events (5)

Do the necessary chores and then do things that please you. Don’t even bother trying to get their approval on the things you want to do. Do not make rash decisions about your personal life. You have bent over backwards trying to help them, and now it’s time to let them stand on their own two feet.

ACROSS

1. part of a plant that absorbs sunlight (4)

3. a small piece of absorbent material used for collecting samples (4)

6. a small, low-powered motorbike (5)

10. a large ship made to transport goods (9)

11. a Spanish wine region known for its high-quality red wines (5)

12. a fishing boat designed for dragging a net through the water (7)

13. to earnestly beg for something (7)

14. a tall vertical pole on a ship that supports sails, rigging, and flags (4)

16. to understand something (6)

18. a large, thick piece of wood (3)

21. to cry noisily (3)

22. an electronic device with three electrodes used in amplifiers, oscillators, and other circuits (6)

23. a waste product formed in the liver and excreted in urine (4)

4. a small boat used to transport passengers across bodies of water (5,4)

5. a flat-bottomed boat used for transporting goods (5)

6. relating to the sea or navigation (8)

7. a rotating device with blades that pushes a vehicle (9)

8. a preliminary version of a written work (5)

9. able to move quickly and easily (5)

15. a watercraft capable of operating underwater (9)

17. a type of boat that uses wing-like structures to lift the hull out of the water (9)

19. in a cautious or reserved manner (9)

20. overwhelmed by sorrow (8)

24. a German submarine used primarily during World War I and World War II (1-4)

25. metal tools worn on the heels of riding boots to help direct a horse (5)

26. a type of sailboat with two masts (5)

28. sound that you can hear (5)

Real Estate

Off-market selling advice

Real estate agent’s words of guidance

l CAIRNS REGION

SELLING off-market has become an increasingly popular strategy in real estate, offering both sellers and buyers unique advantages.

Powerhouse Property lead property manager Meaghan Confait said traditionally properties were listed on major real estate platforms, but an offmarket sale – where a home is sold without public advertising – could provide a more discreet, efficient and targeted approach.

“For sellers, off-market sales minimise disruptions, such as open homes and endless inspections,” she said.

“This strategy is particularly attractive to high-profile homeowners or those wanting

a swift and stressfree transaction.

“Additionally, it can create a sense of exclusivity, attracting serious buyers willing to pay a premium.

“With the right real estate network, these transactions often move quickly, resulting in strong outcomes for sellers.

“Buyers benefit from reduced competition, avoiding the bidding wars common in hot property markets.

“They gain access to premium homes before they hit the mainstream market, allowing them to secure properties with-

out the pressure of public auctions or excessive offers. This approach is particularly appealing to investors and those looking for unique opportunities.”

Ms Confait said Powerhouse Property Cairns had recently secured swift sales for 15 Sabine St, Mount Sheridan, and 7 Patrick St, Innisfail, through their extensive buyer network and strategic marketing approach.

“Both properties attracted strong interest and sold efficiently with street record prices without the need for public listings,” she said.

Stunning Daintree views

l COW BAY

JUST

spectacular

Red cedar cladding and oregon timber ceilings add to the home’s striking appearance. An ornate timber

to a world of grandeur and luxury. The home has a pool, three bedrooms, five bathrooms/ toilets and space for six vehicles.

The asking price for 275 Penda Close, Cow Bay (The Magnificent Barn) is $1.25 million.

Contact Mark Whitham at Raine and Horne on 0419 735.

This Cow Bay home has amazing views across the rainforest out to sea.

Meaghan Confait of Powerhouse Property.

Former display home offers tropical lifestyle plus more for a family at Port Douglas

Bright and breezy by the sea

l CRAIGLIE

floorplan provides great space for everyone.

The oversized timber and glass front door opens to reveal a dedicated office/study/work from home space and the first of four large bedrooms (currently used as a second lounge) that would be ideal for guests given its separation from the other three.

At the heart of the home is the spacious open plan kitchen, dining and lounge space where cooking, eating, relaxing and entertaining comes into its own.

The extra high raked ceilings promote excellent natural light and airflow and add further to the sense of space.

With its feature island benchcome breakfast bar, six-burner gas cooktop, wide under bench oven, dishwasher, dual sinks, ample storage space and large walk-in pantry, the kitchen is made for entertaining.

Quality tiling, cool white decor, energy saving LED downlights, air conditioning and ceiling fans combine throughout the living area to create a tropical oasis that family and friends are sure to enjoy.

At the rear of the home you’ll

find the airconditioned master suite – residing privately away from the remaining bedrooms and opening onto the timber sundeck, as well as direct pool access.

With its shower ensuite, twin sink floating vanity, separate toilet and wall width walk-in wardrobe, there’s an air of opulence that you’re sure to get used to.

The remaining two, large, airconditioned bedrooms also radiate off the main living area, as does the generously proportioned laundry with excellent built-in storage, and the family bathroom providing both bath and shower options and a second separate toilet.

The sense of style continues outside with the remodelled outdoor entertaining space that combines alfresco areas, screening and feature shade sails for a seamless integration of indoor and outdoor living.

The tiled all-weather patio provides the perfect place to relax and enjoy the tropical climate care of its cooling ceiling fan, LED lighting and wall mounted TV.

69 Milman Drive is on the market for $875,000-plus. Contact Matt Scott from LJ Hooker on 0457 738 804 or mscott.portdouglas@ljhooker. com.au

Motoring

VW Golf jumps in price –except entry level model

l NEW MODEL LAUNCH

| Nick Dalton

A MID-life makeover for the VW Golf hatch introduces fresh styling, new features, more power and a cheaper base model with less gear.

The price of the cheapest 2025 Golf falls by $500, offset by a trimmed equipment list, now starting from $38,690 plus on-road costs, while higher grades have climbed by up to $5700.

As predicted in CLN a few weeks ago, the GTI in particu-

lar has gone up. The GTI is now priced from $58,990 plus onroad costs – or between $63,000 to $67,000 drive-away (depending upon which state) amounting to $2900 more than its previous price.

Recently, the outgoing model has been offered with every option pack as standard for $59,990 drive-away.

Option the same on the new GTI and buyers are faced with $66,790 plus on-roads, or more than $70,000 drive-away. There is more for the extra dosh, such as standard 19in wheels – rather than 18s – plus a

more powerful 195kW/370Nm 2.0-litre turbo engine with a seven-speed dual-clutch auto and front-wheel drive.

Some equipment has been removed from the base Life – such as in-built satellite navigation and three-zone climate control, now single-zone – but technology has been added, including a quicker wireless phone charger.

The touchscreen in all models is larger – 10.3in in the Life or 12.9in in other models – with new, faster software and illumination for the touchsensitive climate and volume slider controls.

Physical buttons are back on the steering wheels, after the previous touch-sensitive designs were criticised for being fiddly and hard to press accurately.

Other standard features in the Life include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, LED headlights, 17in wheels, fabric seats, front and rear parking sensors and a suite of advanced safety features.

A new model is the Style, which adds 18in wheels, a 12.9in touchscreen and a poweradjustable driver’s seat.

It can be optioned with a

panoramic sunroof, as well as a ‘sound and vision’ pack that now includes a 360-degree camera for the first time.

Heated and ventilated seats and Vienna leather trim are now standard in the R-Line – $5700 dearer than before – which includes sports styling, seats and steering, plus special 18in alloy wheels.

Powering the three ‘normal’ Golf models is a familiar 1.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine developing 110kW/250Nm, matched with an eight-speed torque-converter automatic transmission.

The GTI features a 12.9-inch touchscreen, while the sunroof has become a standalone option no longer linked with leather seats. Buyers can get the sunroof without losing the iconic ‘tartan’ cloth trim. Power in the flagship R has risen by 10kW/20Nm to 245kW/420Nm, enabling 0-100km/h in a claimed 4.6 seconds through all-wheel drive. It goes up by $400 and there is the option of a $1500 ‘Black Edition’ with darkened highlights. The 2025 Volkswagen Golf range is due in showrooms next month.

The base model Volkswagen Golf is cheaper at $38,690, but with less equipment. Pictures: Volkswagen Australia

The Gold GTI is more powerful but is $2900 dearer.

The ‘Black Edition’ of the Golf R looks menacing.

New BMW SUV EV due soon

Just one model to start with – the iX

l EV RELEASE

| Nick Dalton

BMW Australia will introduce the enhanced BMW iX, which had its world premiere last month, by the middle of 2025.

It will start with one variant at that time, the iX xDrive45 M Sport, which supersedes the iX xDrive40 Sport.

Extensive changes, include development of performance electronics, fine-tuning of the wheel bearings and tyres and revised styling for both the interior and exterior.

Major updates to key components result in a power increase of 25 per cent, a 30 per cent greater energy content for the high voltage battery, a 38 per cent increase in driving range and a 17 per cent faster charging rate.

The dual motor drive system of the new iX has been fine-tuned and the power electronics further developed to deliver noticeably more power for the iX xDrive45 M Sport.

Its system output and torque have been increased by 60kW and 30Nm over the outgoing variant, with the final figures registering 300kW and 700Nm. The increases lead to a substantial one second improvement in acceleration, with the new model capable of accelerating from rest to 100km/h in just 5.1 seconds.

New battery cell technology has increased the energy content of the high-voltage battery for the BMW iX xDrive45 by approximately 30 per cent, to 94.8kWh.

In addition, the new iX is the first BMW electric vehicle to integrate silicon carbide semiconductor components (SiC inverters). These ensure significantly more efficient energy conversion in the drive train. Semiconductors made of silicon carbide are more efficient, more powerful and significantly more temperature resistant than semiconductors made of conventional silicon.

Driving range for the iX xDrive45, according to the WLTP cycle, is now rated at up to 602 kilometres.

Standard equipment includes Driving Assistant Professional including Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function that can be used up to the maximum speed of the vehicle, front collision warning with brake intervention and Parking Assistant with Reversing Assistant and Reversing Assist Camera. Locally-delivered models also feature Parking Assistant Professional, which enables control of parking and manoeuvring via a smartphone.

The price is $142,900 plus on-road costs.

For Westco BMW sales inquiries call Grant Woolcock on 4044 4122.

The new BMW iX SUV is due in Auistralia mid-2025. Picture: BMW Australia

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Help and hope for families and friends of alcoholics. If someone in your family has a drinking problem, you can often see what it is doing to them, but can you see what it is doing to you?

Al-Anon can help you.

Meetings held weekly at: Cairns City: Tuesday nights, 6pm-7pm Edmonton: Thursdays, 12pm-1pm • Kuranda: Mondays, 11am-12pm

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Cairns Night Markets: 54-60 Abbott St, 16:30-23:30

Kuranda Heritage Markets: Rob Veivers Dr, 10:00-15:30

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Rusty’s Markets: Grafton St, Cairns, 05:00-16:00

every week of publication

Saturday March 15th

Cairns Night Markets: 54-60 Abbott St, 16:30-23:30

Clifton Beach Markets: Clifton Beach Shopping Centre, 09:00-14:00

Kuranda Heritage Markets: Rob Veivers Dr, 10:00-15:30

Kuranda Rainforest Markets: 13 Therwine St, 10:00-15:00

Malanda Markets: Malanda Showgorunds, 07:30-12:30

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Rusty’s Markets: Grafton St, Cairns, 05:00-16:00

Sunday March 16th

Cairns Night Markets: 54-60 Abbott St, 16:30-23:30

Kuranda Heritage Markets: Rob Veivers Dr, 10:00-15:30

Kuranda Rainforest Markets: 13 Therwine St, 10:00-15:00

Malanda Markets: Malanda Showgorunds, 07:30-12:30

Mission Beach Markets: Ulysses Park, 07:00-12:00

Port Douglas Markets: Wharf St, 08:00-13:00

Rusty’s Markets: Grafton St, Cairns, 05:00-15:00

The Pier Markets: The Pier Shopping Mall, 09:00-14:00

Wondecla Markets: Wondecla Showgrounds, 08:00-12:00

Teenage athletes representing region at NSW state championships

l NETBALL

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

A GROUP of 20 talented girls aged 15 and 17 have been selected to be part of the Kenfrost Homes Marlin Coast Netball flagship team – the Marlins – to compete this year in the NSW state titles in June.

After a thorough selection process, 20 girls were selected out of 90 applicants to make part of the development team of the Marlins to improve their skills through the year, compete locally and regionally and one big competition for the year – the NSW state titles from June 7-9.

The team is now gearing up for the first clinic of the year led by netball legend Vicki Wilson this weekend to test the synergy of the returning and new players.

“The Marlin Coast Netball Academy have started their season and we’ve selected our Marlins team – 17s and 15s,” said academy president Heather McLaren.

“This year they’ll travel to Sydney in June and compete in the NSW state championships, which will be a great experience because a lot of these girls are in the development stage.

“Last year we went to the Singapore quads and won, which boosted our trial numbers this year. We’re going to make this a biannual event and there’s only a couple of girls in the team who went to Singapore, so it’ll be a great chance for the rest of the girls to compete in NSW.

“The teams are well into their preparation and will be using the next months to hone their skills. It has been challenging for coaches to prepare the teams with no knowledge of the opposition teams, so coaches must try and cover all possible scenarios.

“This weekend we have clinics with Vicki Wilson and looking at selecting the local squads, which the coaches will do.

“On Saturday there’ll be a clinic for the Cairns players at Yorkeys Knob State School from 8.30am followed by a two-hour training session with the current Marlins teams as part of preparation for the NSW titles.

“On Sunday, all players who attended other clinics in Innisfail, Mareeba and Cairns will have a combined academy clinic at Yorkeys Knob State School from 8.30am and they’ll do further skill and match work.

“Then we have carnivals in May and then we leave in June, so it’s a very full-on schedule for the Marlins.”

The next few sessions for the Marlins will focus on court craft and match play, while the players are encouraged to keep fit by doing gym sessions as well as ball and sprint work at their local associations.

Sport Results

GORDONVALE BOWLS

CLUB

Sunday, March 3. Sunday Club Championships. Team Protheroe def. Team Mulkearns. Team Quinn def. Team Morris. Junior Championship Singles. William Sonter def. Ruby Guy. Blake Burns def. Jack Guy. Thursday, March 6. Thursday Bowls. Winners: P Mulkearns, Sandy McDougall. R/U: Joe Jackson, and Jim Kemp.

T Engledes. Sunday, March 9. Sunday morning. Winners: D Lowe, F Clarke. R/U: M Gordon, S Smith.

BROTHERS EDMONTON

WEST CAIRNS BOWLS

Tuesday, March 4. Tuesday afternoon. Winners: J Wilcox, G Blades, Yaka. R/U: G Henrich, D Aumuller, M O’Halloran. Thursday, March 6. Thirsty Thursday. Winners: G Mills, J Greenway, Y Best. Friday, March 7. Friday night scroungers. Winner: M Taylor. R/U:

BOWLS

Wednesday, March 5. Overall Winners: G Atkinson, J Jackson, R Morris. Game 1. Winners: D Jacoora, O Scott, J Mason. Game 2. Winners: Q Bates, J Blain, B Power. Thursday, March 6. Championship Fours. D Hester, L Ceely, G Buttigieg,

J Rick def. C Morris, D Maxwell, A Windsor, K O’Halloran. Social bowls. Winners: R Langtree, L Catalano, D Quinn. Saturday, March 8. Winners: Q Bates, L Uhrenholt, G Moule. R/U: S Finocchiro, S Bates, J Rick.

MARLIN COAST BOWLS Tuesday, March 4. Tuesday morning bowls. Winners: Neil, Laurie. R/U: Margaret, Geoff. Tuesday afternoon Men’s triples. Winners: B Wright, R Lloyd,

N Robson. R/U: Peter, Rags, Tommy. Tuesday night bowls. Winners: Mick, Dennis, Brian, Tommo, Barry, Sisca. Wednesday, March 5. Wednesday mixed bowls. Winners: D Gibson, J Smith. R/U: L Roberts, T Spicer. Third: J Brown, C Scott. Thursday, March 6. Thursday Mixed self-selected triples. Winners: B Wright, R Lloyd, N Robson. R/U: J Carey, T Spicer, V Still. Saturday, March 8. Saturday morning Scroungers. Winner: Nil. R/U: Nil.

Pathways footy this Saturday

l RUGBY LEAGUE

DUE to Cyclone Alfred and its impact on Brisbane and southeast Queensland, the first match of the season between Northern Pride and the Brisbane Tigers has been postponed until May 10.

The postponement was put in place to ensure the safety of the players travelling to FNQ and the season will kick off on May 10.

All matches from the elite pathways, men’s and women’s, will continue as scheduled.

Last weekend, the Harvey Norman under-17 and under-19 women’s teams defeated the Townsville Blackhawks 26-6 and 24-22 respectively.

On the other hand the under-17 and under-19 men’s teams competing in the Cyril Connell Cup suffered close losses against the Hawks 16-20 and 28-34 respectively.

All elite pathways teams will go on to challenge the Central Queensland Capras this Saturday from 11am and the HPC Pride will face the Tweed Seagulls from 5pm.

“We were all disappointed with the cancellation of round one last weekend, but we now look forward to playing this match on the rescheduled date of May 10,” said Pride chief executive Garreth Smith.

“Despite the cancellation, we still saw great support for our Elite Pathways teams on Saturday,” he said.

“Now, we shift our full focus to Saturday, March 15, Russ (head coach) is eager to finally get the HPC squad on the paddock and has been very pleased with the team’s preparation so far. Expect a huge day of footy at Barlow Park.”

EDGE HILL CAIRNS BOWLS Club championships. Ladies Pairs. I Crampton, L Pomroy def. A Evans, E Whitehead 1915. Ladies A Singles. C Smith def. E Whitehead 25-13. Men’s Pairs. W Petrohilos, A Hammond def. P Whitehead, H Mitchell 19-16. Social Bowls. Wednesday, March 5. Winners: Steve, Lorraine, Justin. R/U: Karl, George, Mal. Saturday, March 8. Winners: Elaine, Jill, Peter.

Marlins 17s team (back row left) Ninke Von Wielligh, Lexi Fealy, Sophie Withers, Silvienne Poggioli, (front row) Cara Von Wielligh, Darna Zeigler, Maddison Argent. Absent: Lucy Moyle, Mikayla Reeves. Picture: Supplied

New Port boxing gym pulls no punches in quest for best

l BOXING

| Jake Black

FATHER and son Lachy and Danny Buzza are a well-regarded boxing duo in the Douglas Shire.

Danny Buzza has had a successful boxing career lasting from 1995-2005.

He started up their first boxing gym in Cooya Beach where his son Lachy was training the kids and helping run the gym part-time.

This made Mr Buzza junior find a love and passion for the sport to the point he was ready to open his own gym which is Force Boxing Academy at Craiglie where he runs multiple classes a week.

“After working alongside Dad, I realised I loved the sport and teaching it to the youth and eventually decided to open my own gym,” he said.

“We have close to 40 members which is huge for our first year.”

Mr Buzza junior has wasted no time entering athletes into competitions.

“Over the next six months Force Boxing will have several boxers entering into local tournaments around North Queensland, which will

then lead on to our fighters competing at both Golden Gloves and state championships at the end of 2025”.

With Force Boxing growing, Mr Buzza junior is still looking for new boxers to join.

“We have classes for all skill levels available, so the individual can choose what they think suits them best,” he said.

“Force Boxing also offers individual lessons for beginners or if the group setting isn’t for you.”

Although Mr Buzza junior has opened this gym and runs it, his dad is still in the background as a mentor for both his son and Josh Harris, as Josh enters the pro boxing scene.

As Force Boxing’s participant numbers grow, they look to also introduce more in-house events.

“A fight night in Port Douglas is definitely on the cards as we continue to grow,” Mr Buzza junior said.

His focus for the rest of the year is to prepare his fighters as they enter the competition scene and overall continue to grow the gym and offer his knowledge around the sport to all the young athletes in the region.

Marlin Coast team throws down the gauntlet to opponents in ‘25

Rangers lead soccer’s charge

l SOCCER

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

WITH five competitions on the line, the Marlin Coast Rangers FC are looking to take home the largest number of trophies, win the premiership and continue to exercise their dominance as the best team in the Far North.

The Rangers started off their season looking unstoppable, performance after performance dominating the field. They remain undefeated in the Football Queensland Premier League (FQPL), beating the Mareeba Bulls 5-1 and the Leichhardt Lions 5-2 as well as a dominant start at the Kappa Queensland Cup, defeating Edge Hill Tigers and the Stratford Dolphins, kicking off with the fastest goal in Australian soccer history.

They’ll face Edge Hill Tigers tomorrow at their homeground in Pennell Field which they have already be-

aten in the Kappa Cup.

Coach and midfielder Crios O’Hare said the team’s eyes were set on the premiership.

“We started off the season well. We’ve beaten Leichhardt and Mareeba in the first two rounds, but I don’t think we’ve played particularly well in either game,” he said.

“Leichhardt and Mareeba both made it difficult for us to be able to play and we’re obviously happy to take the points from them, but I think we’ve got a lot to improve on if we want to be successful this year.

“I think the goals we’ve conceded have come from our mistakes, so we really need to limit opportunities we give to the opposition and we’ve got to look out for the ball a lot better and being a lot more patient.

“However, we’ve been able to get on top of teams physically. We’re a pretty fit team and we work hard and it shows in the matches that we played and that we’re

able to get on top of teams in the second half and that’s been a big part of why we’ve won the first two rounds.

“Some individual performances have been great to help us in the attack. Josh Pin scored four in the first two games and we have good depth in our squad as well and we have the luxury to bring good players from the bench.”

Mr O’Hare said that being on top meant you were the target to beat for all teams which meant they had to step up their game.

“We need to be at our best, we’re in four or five competitions this year, so obviously we want to get as far as we can in these competitions,” he said.

“But for me as a coach, it’s always been about winning the league. If you can be top of the table after 20-25 games I think you proved yourself to be the best team.

“Others believe that the grand final is more important but for me and my team is about winning the league.” Josh Pin

throws a headshot for the goal in the match against the Edge Hill Tigers at the Kappa Cup. Picture: Supplied

Lachy Buzza has opened Force Boxing Academy at Craiglie. Picture: Supplied