Cairns Local News December 01 2023 by Cairns Local News

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DECEMBER 1, 2023

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Moller new Cairns deputy mayor

Symphony on Reef at 2024 Carnivale

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Airport’s festive ‘present’

IT LOOKS LIKE

Christmas

l AEROGLEN | Nick Dalton

l CAIRNS REGION EXCITEMENT is building ahead of tonight's lighting of the city's Christmas tree on the Cairns Esplanade. Looking forward to the event from 5.30pm are local artists India Collins and Hayley Gillespie, Memphis Neeve, 5, Cairns Mayor Terry James and major sponsor of Carols in the Park Solarhart Cairns director Sarah Sexton. Festivities will include entertainment for the kids. FULL STORY PAGE 6

Picture: Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

No crocs swim plan

Watersports precinct idea for old Barron River delta sand mine l CARAVONICA | Nick Dalton PLANS are afoot to develop a large crocodile-free watersports playground, including a swimming area, at an old sand mine on the Barron River delta.

Member for Barron River Craig Crawford has revealed the proposal which he told Cairns Local News was in the very early stages. It comes as Cairns regional councillor Brett Olds calls for a weir to be built at Lake Placid to

prevent crocodiles and to create a safer swimming enclosure. Mr Crawford said water sport clubs in Cairns had asked about the fate of the sand mines on the Barron delta, and the potential for a conversion into a water sports zone. “But these conver-

sations are very early days and would need to be led by (Cairns Regional) council,” he said. “We could have more success at croc-proofing that area, but there would still be a week or so every wet season when the delta floods and crocs swim in.

“If council works up a plan in the future, I’d be happy to back it.” Mr Crawford said he supported a crocodile-free swim area but not at Lake Placid because it was difficult to control the volume of water and crocs. CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

ANOTHER international route for Cairns is on the radar of the airport with the hopes of a “fantastic” Christmas present for the region. The route – which could be revealed in just over two weeks – follows the announcement this week of Chinese New Year services by China Eastern in February next year. Airport chief operating officer Garry Porter said the airport was “very hopeful and excited” about the next route. “We are hopeful it will be a lovely Christmas present for everyone,” he said. “I’ll be in the terminal giving away colouring-in books, and lollies and chocolates to everyone … but I won’t be wearing a (Santa) costume.” More than 2300 passengers are expected on the 10 flights scheduled by China Eastern to operate from February 1-18 four times a week, bringing a $3 million boost to the region’s economy. Mr Porter said it would be the only Chinese New Year services but Singapore Airlines was expected to bring people in for the Year of the Dragon as well as travellers arriving on domestic flights from direct Chinese flights into Brisbane. FULL STORY PAGE 5

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New city rafting centre l LAKE PLACID | Nick Dalton THE new lessors of a Cairns Regional Council property at Lake Placid plan to spend $500,000 and base their Barron River rafting operations in the former Italian restaurant and associated buildings. The council has approved a fiveyear lease plus a further five years to Cairns Adventure Group (CAG) to operate a restaurant, outdoor dining area, caretaker’s residence, public toilets and carpark. The group runs white water rafting in the Barron as well as Tully rivers, jet boat tours in Trinity Inlet and rainforest and other activities. CAG owner Roderic Rees said the Cairns Rafting Centre would open mid-next year after $500,000 was spent completely upgrading the property. He said a lot of renovations were required as well as a fit-out and it would become the base for their Barron River rafting operations with between 10-30 staff involved. Mr Rees said it would give the company, staff and customers a

proper base to work from, a training facility, as well as home to the world champion Aus Crocs under-23 white water rafting team. A council report said the group was the only tender. “The owner, Roderic Rees, is a well-known local advocate for Cairns tourism. It was assessed that CAG’s proposal would benefit the premises, reactivate the Lake Placid area, and actively engage the local community and tourism to the area for recreation purposes in an ecofriendly manner,” the report said. “The existing building will undergo significant upgrades to ensure it is fit for purpose for the recreation activities proposed by CAG as part of its tender.” The council has waived four years of rental income of about $400,000 in return for CAG upgrading the buildings. Cr Rhonda Coghlan (division 8) said it was “a really good outcome” and the company and owner were well known in the hospitality and tourism sectors. She said this would help the company handle the estimated 20,000 rafters a year at the lake.

Cairns Adventure Group owner Roderic Rees helps with a raft on the Barron River. Picture: CAG

Interest in proposal for watersports zone on river delta FROM PAGE 1

“But I don’t think Lake Placid is the answer because it is difficult to control the volume of water and crocodiles in a big river system,” he said. Mayor Terry James said the idea was in the “very preliminary stages” but the council would not be involved in its development. He said it would have to be a private venture and probably at the Caravonica sand mine site. Cr James said the lease on the mine had a few years to run so it was a proposal in the next five to 10 years.

“It sounds like a good idea though,” he said. Cr Olds (division 9) plans to make the Lake Placid proposal a state government election issue. He wants the government and the council to go halves in a croc-preventative weir. The lake is currently a zone B or active removal zone which is suited to areas of rivers, creeks and wetlands where crocodiles are frequently in close proximity to large urban populations. All crocodiles, regardless of size or behaviour are targeted for removal.

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Zone A or barrier and removal zone is suited to areas where there are physical barriers that are generally effective in preventing crocodiles from entering the area. This applies, for example, to Aplins Weir in Townsville in the dry season. Any crocodile in this area is targeted for removal, regardless of size or behaviour. In 2021 a croc was removed at Lake Placid after a man swimming in the lake was bitten by the reptile around the head and shoulders. In 2020 a 2m croc was also removed. Cr Olds told last week’s council meet-

ing that it was time to make the area totally free of crocodiles. He said when he was in his teens he trained in the lake for triathlons and it was used by nippers during the stinger season. “We have a huge opportunity here to back these guys (new Lake Placid operators) to put pressure on the state government as there will be an election next year and it’s a good time to light the fire, Cr Olds said. Cr James agreed, and said: “It might give the kids something else to do rather than pinching cars”.

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Musicians rock and roar for animal charity l PORTSMITH | Isaac Colman LAST Saturday’s ‘Rock ‘n’ Roar for Paws’ charity concert at Cairns Yacht Squadron was a great success, with almost 300 locals attending and nearly $7500 raised. The event featured a wide variety of local music, performed by wellknown local artists such as Enemy of Anemone, Wind and Wood, Poundcake, Drewboy, Tinderbox, Frank Ridge, Taipan Tuckey, MC Yen, as well as a special guest DJ. Raising funds for the Mareeba Animal Refuge, the charity event was able to reach halfway to their goal of $15,000. Event organiser Te Iria Ketu said the money would be used by the refuge. She said that ongoing support for the refuge through these events would require funding. “(The money will be used) to go on their vet bills and to upkeep the refuge,” Ms Ketu said. “The refuge will need ongoing income to help keep on top of their vet bills,” she said.

“I have been asked to host again by members of the refuge and people of the public, and I am willing to do so on the basis that the requirements are met. “These (Rock ‘n’ Roar for Paws) events will never be enough unless they are ongoing, which I would be happy to do if we got funding to pay our musicians and the production.” Ms Ketu also shared plans of an upcoming concert at Boscas in Mareeba. “We are having a second event in Mareeba this Sunday at Boscas to try and raise the rest,” said Ms Ketu. “We also have raffle tickets for sale at the moment,” she said. “Anybody willing to purchase tickets can visit the Facebook event page.” Ms Ketu also said there was volunteer help needed to support the refuge. “The refuge is at full capacity at the moment,” Ms Ketu said. “They really need homes for the animals. “They also almost always need volunteers to walk the dogs at the shelter.”

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Local artist and event performer MC Yen with Mareeba Refuge dog Bonnie. Picture: Facebook

Chamber: ‘Mossman mill cannot be revived and farmers need to diversify’

Time to sow seeds of change l MOSSM A N | Nick Dalton A DOUGLAS Shire business leader is calling on state and federal governments to forget about pouring more money into the ageing and antiquated Mossman sugar mill and help farmers invest in new crops. Douglas Chamber of Commerce president Jeremy Blockey said the mill could not be revived and it was now up to governments to help farmers transition away from sugarcane, and be upskilled to new agricultural sectors such as cattle, sorghum, cocoa, rice and fruit trees.

The mill has appointed liquidation firm Worrells to act as voluntary administrator of the mill’s companies due to “financial distress”. The mill has about 150 workers and 80 growers. In a statement to shareholders, chairman Rajinder Singh said the move to appoint a voluntary administrator was a “proactive step in the interest of the companies and the best chance of securing a future for Mossman mill”. Mr Blockey said it was time to face facts that the 127-yearold mill was past its use by date. He said the state and federal governments had chipped in

$25 million and $20 million, which allowed Far Northern Milling (FNM) to become the first local group in Australia to buy back a sugar mill. The money was supposed to guarantee the future of the 127-year-old facility and help it transition from producing only raw sugar to a bio-precinct capable of making food ingredients, alcohol, green chemicals and fertilisers. Mr Blockey said the governments would not be prepared to sink more money into the mill. “It’s time to cut to the chase and negotiate with government for a three-to-four year plan to transition away from cane and enter a new agricultural sector

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Today there were just niche growers and a couple of local manufactures, Mr Blockey said. “There was some serious investment. Perhaps it can be resurrected to find the right and wrong ways,” Mr Blockey said. He said there were a couple of canefarmers who had opted out of sugar and turned their properties into cattle farms. Canegrowers chief executive Dan Galligan said growers, the local industry, and the wider community must be front-andcentre of any decisions made on the future of the mill. “Growers have already invested over $10m in the upcoming 2024 season, and they

haven’t been fully paid for the 2023 season yet, either. The closure of the mill would be devasting for sugarcane families in the region,” he said. “And it’s not just growers and mill staff who would suffer. “As one of the region’s largest employers, Mossman mill injects a lot of cash into the local economy, both directly and indirectly. “Its loss would impact the whole community. “It’s vital that administrators remain in constant communication with the industry so that local growers can have clarity on any decisions that could seriously impact their livelihoods.”

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that is sustainable by upskilling or reskilling farmers,” he said. Mr Blockey said, with the help of government funding, farmers could redesign their farms for new crops and acquire different machinery. He said it might require some of the older farmers selling their properties, developing a succession plan for the next generation of farmers, or new farmers entering the industry. “We need to give them support for a succession plan to train the next generation,” Mr Blockey said. He said cocoa should be reconsidered after a lot of time, effort and money was invested more than 15 years ago.

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Skatepark to ‘excite’ l REDLYNCH THE concept design for the redevelopment of the Redlynch (Tenni) Skatepark has been released and it is set to include a vertical exception, a hipped bowlend, and an advanced stair set. Cairns Regional Council officially released the concept design after extensive community consultation, and it aims to meet the needs of local skateboarders and riders. Division 6 councillor Kristy Vallely said the redevelopment would

improve the functionality and usability of the whole park while also including the riders’ desired features. “The collaboration between council and Trinity Skateparks represents a significant investment in the Redlynch community that will provide an upgraded skatepark facility that caters to the diverse needs and desires of local residents,” she said. "Initial consultation was carried out in February at the skatepark and Redlynch Central shopping centre, followed by further consultation in May. “What was evident was

a real desire to retain the existing skate park footprint, complemented by expanded features.” Responding to this feedback, the concept plans showcase an array of exciting additions, including a vertical extension, a hipped bowlend, and an advanced stair set, while aiming to preserve the park’s distinctive plazastyle features. The concept plan also addresses issues like water and dirt transfer onto the skate park, which greatly affects the usability of the area for riders. It is due to be started and completed next year.

The council has unveiled the concept design for the Redlynch Skatepark. Picture: Supplied

Work to stop sand erosion Breakwaters to be constructed at Holloways Beach to protect coastline l HOLLOWAYS BEACH | Nick Dalton LONG-awaited breakwaters at Holloways Beach to try to stop sand erosion have been approved by Cairns Regional Council. The three breakwaters at a cost of $2.4 million will be constructed as soon as a Queensland Government marine parks’ permit is issued. A council

spokesman said the proposed breakwaters were permanent structures built from rock for the main purpose of mitigation of sand loss and retention of the beach profile. “The $2.4m project will provide longer term protection of the foreshore, while also reducing ongoing costs of regular sand nourishment programs,” he said. “The three breakwaters, which will be about 34m x

23m in size, will be constructed north of the existing rock groyne.” The government has committed $750,000 of funding to the project under the preparing our communities program. The work is expected to be completed at the end of July 2024. A council report said continued erosion of Holloways Beach had resulted in the need for erosion protection structures to be considered after

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sand nourishment campaigns completed in 2021 and 2023 to address significant erosion occurring to the grassed foreshore and to address the risk to nearby public infrastructure. “These campaigns are undertaken at substantial cost with limited success as the sand continues to be washed away by wave action as part of the natural coastal processes,” it said. “The most recent campaign was in 2023 when approximate-

ly 35,000 cubic metres of sand was pumped onto the beach at a cost of $1.25m. “Council recently constructed two rock structures to the Holloways Beach foreshore which protect the southern 650m of beachfront. These are proving to be successful in retaining sand on the beach front.” Area Councillor Rhonda Coghlan said the project was “a long time coming”. She said it had been in the budget last year,

this year and even next year. “It hasn’t been the fault of council (the delay), but it has been a long wait for the community,’ Cr Coghlan said. Project management office executive manager Ray Plasto told last week’s council meeting that, while he was unable to give a start date due to waiting for the permit, the council would be all set to go with the job after government permission was granted.

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Search for China Eastern returns with Year of the Dragon services in 2024 teen finds nothing l YARRABAH POLICE have found nothing after two days of searching bushland in Yarrabah last week as part of investigations into the disappearance of Markiah Major (right). The 17-year-old was last seen by family in August and reported missing to police in September. He has not contacted any family or friends or accessed his bank account. The teen was last seen on Brophy Street, Westcourt, on August 15 and was reported missing on September 2. On November 21 and 22, police specialist units including the dive squad, dog squad, Cairns Water Police alongside State Emergency Service volunteers, conducted a third search of bushland. A police spokesman said “no items of relevance were located”. Last month the family appealed to the state government for a reward to be offered for information leading to information about his whereabouts Investigations are continuing and police continue to appeal for anyone with information to contact Policelink or Crimestoppers.

Welcome back China l AEROGLEN | Nick Dalton THE return of a major Chinese airline to Cairns early next year is expected to be the start of more direct services. China Eastern Airlines will operate seasonal services from Shanghai to Cairns for Chinese New Year celebrations in 2024. There are 10 flights scheduled to operate from February 1 to February 18, four times a week (Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday), encouraging visitors to take a tropical New Year holiday. Cairns Airport chief operating officer Garry Porter said discussions were continuing with China Eastern and other Chinese airlines. “We have a long and strong relationship with China Eastern and are hopeful it is the sign of more to come,” he said. Chief executive officer Richard Barker said the significant seasonal service would bring a welcome economic boost, during a traditionally slower period. “We are delighted to welcome these services to Cairns in 2024, re-establishing a direct service to this key inbound tourism market,” he said. “This will be the first Chinese New Year service since the pandemic, and further illustrates how our industry continues to recover and thrive.”

A China Eastern airliner touches down at Cairns Airport prior to the pandemic. Picture: Cairns Airport

The flights will bring 2320 seats into Cairns and the wider region during the operational period and inject up to $3 million into the local visitor economy. Mr Barker was a member of the senior delegation that travelled to China with Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk recently. The group attended meetings with Chinese industry leaders, including senior executives from China Eastern Airlines. “It is clear that Australia re-

mains a destination of desire for the Chinese as international travel continues to grow following the challenges of the last few years,” he said. “These key seasonal services will hopefully accelerate the return of visitors from China, which has historically led our inbound tourism market. “We are already seeing Chinese tourists return to Tropical North Queensland after the resumption of direct services between China and Brisbane

Airport. We continue to work collaboratively with our airport and tourism partners to enable easy access to our region and encourage Chinese visitation.” The last time Cairns welcomed seasonal flights from China was in 2019. Tropical North Queensland chief executive officer Mark Olsen said “China was the missing aviation puzzle piece needed for international visitation to rebound bigger and better than it was prior to the pandemic.”

“This will be Tropical North Queensland’s opportunity to demonstrate to China that our destination is ready to welcome their visitors and has the demand to turn the Cairns route into a year-round service,” he said. “We have connected with the tourism trade three times in the past year, which was well received, but to be able to make the connections with the customers via direct flights will make the difference in our international recovery.”

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Cairns Local News, Friday, December 1, 2023 PAGE 5

‘Tis season to be jolly

Lights get switched on city’s official Christmas tree tonight l CAIRNS REGION | Isabella Guzman Gonzalez AS the lightning of the Esplanade’s Christmas tree tonight marks the official beginning of the festivities, events and appeals across the region, the community is being encouraged to embrace those in need and give back this Christmas. Festive celebrations officially start today on the Esplanade from 5.30pm with entertaining shows by Australia’s favourite dog Bluey and her sister Bingo and the traditional lightning of the tree at 7pm by Cairns Mayor Terry James and the winners of council’s Christmas ecard competition. This year the town’s Christmas tree will have a Reef-inspired theme with special decorations by local artists Hayley Gillespie and India Collins that will shine bright with the 13,000 LED lights of the 10mtall tree. “There’s nothing like Christmas in the tropics and it’s fitting that we kick off the festive season beside our iconic lagoon,” Cr James said. Dozens of Christmas events and appeals are also kicking off this week encouraging the Cairns community to embrace the spirit of the holidays and give back some joy to struggling families. Cairns’ residents have lots of options to support locals doing it tough with appeals like the Mayor’s Christmas Appeal, Kmart Wishing Tree, Big W Giving Tree and the relaunch of the Quicksilver Christmas appeal in Cairns. The Mayor’s appeal will raise funds to make 1000 hampers to go to families in need in the Cairns region, while the Kmart appeal is taking gifts and donations to go to the Cairns Salvation Army, or you can drop off unwrapped gifts under the tree at Big W local stores to go to the Children’s Hospi-

tal Foundation. This year also marks the return of the Quicksilver appeal to Cairns, where all gifts and non-perishable food donated will go to Cairns Salvation Army and St Vincent de Paul Cairns. The Quicksilver Group relaunched the company’s annual Christmas Charity Appeal. The appeal first began in 2004 but due to COVID impacts was unable to be held over the past few years. With support from industry colleagues, local suppliers and the company’s 490 strong staff, food and gifts will be donated to the Salvation Army, Vinnies and the Douglas Shire community for their direct distribution to families and individuals in need. “It has been, and still is a very challenging time for many people and businesses in our region and the charities are in need more than ever,” said Quicksilver Group managing director Tony Baker. “Every donation will certainly help make Christmas much happier for a lot of families and people. We hope this will make a difference to many in our community.” Major Ben Johnson from the Salvation Army said they expected to need a lot more help from the community this year. “Last year we assisted 680 households with Christmas hampers, and with the increase in cost of living, we are expecting the need to be much greater this year,” he said. Christmas is also a time to share the holiday cheer with the community and there are many free options for residents this year with the Cairns Churches Cairns Community Carols at the Cairns Showgrounds tomorrow from 5.30pm and the ‘Bauble and Bows’ themed Carols in the Park event at Munro Martin Parklands on December 17 from 4pm. “Bring along your blankets and chairs and enjoy the free show,” Cr James said.

The excavator at work at Freshwater Lake earlier this week. Picture: Nick Dalton

Excavator cleans up lake mess l EDGE HILL

Local artists (from left) India Collins and Hayley Gillespie, Memphis Neeve, 5, Cairns Mayor Terry James and major sponsor of Carols in the Park Solarhart Cairns director Sarah Sexton are welcoming the festivities with the lighting of the Christmas tree tonight. Picture: Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

WORKS to remove aquatic weeds and other dead material from the surface of the Freshwater Lake at the Centenary Lakes precinct is due to be completed today (Friday, December 1). A Cairns Regional Council spokesman said a long arm excavator had been skimming the surface to help open the waterway, improve water flow and provide wading birds with a better landing zone onto the lake. “These works were originally scheduled to be undertaken in July, but were delayed due to unseasonal wet weather, which meant the excavator could not safely access the lake,” he said. “Once works are completed and the machine leaves the site, the lake may look cloudy for several days. “The aim of this project is to improve aesthetics and make the waterway more manageable for all living things that call Freshwater Lake home.” Long-time Edge Hill resident Trevor Johnston has been consistently advocating for the lake to be maintained in pristine condition. He has been campaigning for years for a regular maintenance schedule to keep the waterway in good condition year-round, not until it gets clogged up and looks unsightly. There are hopes many species of water fowl will return soon.

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Rare bird sighted oﬀ coast

Unity votes for fellow team member Cr Moller as second-in-charge

New deputy their ‘own’

l GREEN ISLAND

l CAIRNS REGION

AN unusual sighting of a bird related to the extinct dodo has been spotted on Green Island off Cairns. The nearthreatened Nicobar pigeon (right) on the island is causing some excitement among island visitors and bird watchers, and also bears cultural significance to the Gurrugulu Gunghandji and Gimuy Walubarra Yidinji communities. The Nicobar pigeon (caloenas nicobarica), is nomadic and named for India’s Nicobar Islands with a typical habitat on isolated southeast Asian islands. Green Island Resort general manager Sue O’Donnell said the bird was first sighted about November 1 and was affectionately named “Emerald” by the resort staff because of its distinctive iridescent green plumage. The bird was identified by a Wunyami Cultural Tour guide. Elder GudjuGudju Fourmile said “regarding the Nicobar pigeon, currently spotted in Wunyami, the elders of both the Gurrugulu Gunghandji and Gimuy Walubarra Yidinji communities are delighted by its reappearance”.

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

New Cairns Mayor Terry James and new deputy mayor Brett Moller. Picture: Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

Council News Update Online services outage Council advises that e-services will be unavailable this weekend – from 3.30pm Friday 1 December to 9am Monday 4 December – to allow for a system upgrade.

Greenpatch alarm testing Live testing of the Greenpatch flood warning station will be conducted on Wednesday 6 December between 10am and midday. The test will begin with a voice recording lasting about 25 seconds, followed by a siren tone lasting about 30 seconds. This is a test only. Residents and visitors in the area do not need to take any action. The warning system ensures there is sufficient time for evacuation of the campground before floodwaters start to enter the lower areas of the site.

Services including online payment of Council-related fees, such as rates, water bills and parking fines, as well as the online Report a problem function will not be available during the outage. See Council’s website for more details on the outage as well as alternative payment options.

Improvement works Aplin St, Cairns City: Asphalt works on the exit lane from Cairns Central. Nightworks from 11.30pm to 6am, Thursday 7 December and Friday 8 December. Temporary lane closures. 4Visit Council’s website for a full list of improvement works.

UNITY Team candidate and division 1 councillor Brett Moller has been elected deputy mayor with a 5-4 vote against independent councillor Cathy Zeiger at council’s special meeting on Wednesday. But not without one independent councillor labelling the vote “a travesty against democracy”. Favoured to win the vote against underdog Cr Zeiger (division 3), Cr Moller took the win with five votes by Unity Team members Mayor Terry James, himself, and councillors Rhonda Coghlan (div. 8), Kristy Vallely (div. 6), and Max O’Halloran (div. 7). Cr Moller welcomed the results, saying beyond politics he had the experience it took to exercise the role at the highest level. “I’m very pleased with the outcome. I think I bring a lot of experience to the role in terms of board representation, directorships and seven years in council as well as being a qualified lawyer with over 30 years of experience,” he said. “I’m looking to support Mayor James and bring stability, confidence and certainty for our residents leading into the 2024 local government elections.” Cr Zeiger, who’s currently in New Zealand, attended the meeting via phone call and presented her nomination as an opportunity to bring a new perspective to the role. “I believe that having an independent councillor as deputy mayor pro-

vides the opportunity for a different perspective in the mix,” she said. “In my case after nearly nine years of experience serving as a local government councillor in division 3, I offer a solid grassroots community perspective which is vital in good decision making for our community.” Councillors Rob Pyne (div. 2), Amy Eden (div. 5), and Brett Olds (div. 9) voted for Cr Zeiger. Independent Cr Pyne said “this is a travesty against democracy, once again Unity picking one of their own”. But Cr Moller said no politics were involved. “Residents of Cairns are sick and tired of party politics. This was about being a responsible councillor and appointing the right person to the position of deputy mayor for the right reason,” he said. “We saw today and last week that independents form alliances too, and they vote as a block as well, so let’s not be duplicitous and let’s do the right thing.” Cr James, who nominated Cr Moller for the role, said he was pleased with the decision and debunked Cr Pyne’s claims. “I’m very pleased with the outcome, I know of Brett’s capacity as a councillor,” he said. “This is a democracy we live in. We play the process as per the Local Government Act, you can’t go outside it and that’s what some of the other councillors are saying that we do. We cannot do that, we voted for the person and I’m very pleased with the outcome and the qualifications Cr Moller brings to the table.”

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Big Brother watch on bins

Public rubbish containers throughout Cassowary Coast under surveillance l CASSOWARY COAST | Nick Dalton PUBLIC rubbish bins on the Cassowary Coast are going hitech with sensors in a bid to improve the emptying of the containers. Bins across the Cassowary Coast are now being remotely monitored thanks to the installation of bin sensors throughout the region. The technology was

commissioned to provide efficient and responsive servicing to the council’s new public bin network which recently increased in capacity from 15,620 litres to 23,040 litres. The new network was designed to prevent environmental concerns including scavenging animals and overflow. Remote sensors at each bin location will help the council manage the larger network by measuring waste levels, bin positions

and temperatures across all public bins in the Cassowary Coast. Chief executive officer Andrew Graffen said the data collected by the sensors would alert the council to bins that were reaching capacity and needed servicing. “We’ll also have insight into which locations are in most demand for public bins and identify those that are being misused,” he said. Mr Graffen said it would

help the council prepare for this year’s festive season when the region would see a spike in visitors, but also domestic waste being illegally deposited in public bins. “This technology will help us adjust our schedules to respond to increased demand throughout the public bin network,” he said. “But it’s all too common that as soon as we empty a bin it’s filled to the brim with one per-

son’s domestic waste. “We’re asking our community to help us by keeping an eye out for their local bin and contacting council if they see someone illegally dumping. If you see it, report it.” A Telstra Innovation grant funded the pilot program for the remote bin monitoring, testing sensors on 50 bins across the region. The success of the pilot in demonstrating service level

improvements led to council’s commitment to implement the system across its network of 96 bins. To report concerns around a public bin, call the council on 1300 763 903 or email enquiries@cassowarycoast.qld.gov. au. Reports for illegal dumping can be submitted via the council’s website: https://bit.ly/3QYgg4g

Hi-tech dental healing l CAIRNS NORTH THE future of dental care has arrived in the Far North, thanks to the region’s premier health-charity. Dental patients in Cairns will be the first outside the south-east corner to have access to 3D dental printing technology. Cairns Hospital oral health director Dr Harry Robertson said the $241,000 technology, funded by the Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation, would help reduce the adult waiting list for patients needing dentures. “Up until now, the manufacture of dentures

has been an entirely manual approach but the new technology will allow for an increased number of dentures to be manufactured quickly and with greater accuracy,” he said. “This fundamentally means an increased number of patients will be taken off the waiting list once the process is implemented. Once the concept has been embedded, we plan to roll the technology out to other dental clinics in the Tablelands and Cassowary Coast,” he said. The technology will make it possible to offer other types of treatment not currently

PAGE 8 Cairns Local News, Friday, December 1, 2023

offered by the oral health service, like crown and bridge work in the future. “The technology will enhance the provision of top-tier dental care for our patients and simultaneously serve as a magnet for retaining current staff and attracting potential recruits.” Foundation chairman Dr Ken Chapman said that upon learning of the equipment's advantages, he was immediately convinced of its value and recommended funding the equipment, which woud reduce the turnaround from five weeks to under two, offering more precision.

Dr Harry Robertson and Dr Ken Chapman with the 3D printer. Picture: FNQ Hospital Foundation

www.cairnslocalnews.com.au

Hall of fame, people choice and gold awards for region’s top tourism operators

Simply the best honoured l FAR NORTH | Isabella Guzman Gonzalez PARONELLA Park and Reef House Palm Cove were the big winners at last weekend’s 2023 Queensland Tourism Awards, celebrated for the first time in 26 years in Cairns. For the third year in a row, Paronella Park took home the people’s choice award and were officially inducted into the Queensland Tourism Industry Council’s hall of fame and won silver in cultural tourism, while Reef House Palm Cove took home the five star luxury accommodation award for the second year in a row. Other winners were Cape York Peninsula Lodge, Tropic Wings Cairns, Barefoot Tours Cairns, Crankworx Cairns, Novotel Cairns Oasis Resorts and more. The Cairns Convention Centre hosted the 38th iteration of the awards where two FNQ hotels and 10 FNQ tourism operators took home 14 awards across 10 categories. The Reef House Director Malcolm Bean said it was a great honour to win an award keenly contested by the most luxurious hotels. “A big thank you goes to the dedicated team at The Reef House led by general manager Wayne Harris as each staff member is committed to ensuring every guest has the relaxing luxury holiday of their dreams,” he said. “Our vision for an adults-only wellness resort that delivers remarkable experiences with more than 21 ‘Signature Inclusions’ is resounding with tra-

The adults-only Reef House at Palm Cove won gold in the state tourism awards. Inset (top, left): The Reef House winning team and Paronella Park owners Mark and Judy Evans.

vellers who have increased our repeat business to 25 per cent.” Celebrating 30 years of ownership, Paronella Park operator and owner Mark Evans said the awards were a testament to their strong relationship with their guests. “It was a big night and people’s choice is one of those awards that recognises the connection between Paronella Park and our guests and for that we

have to thank our staff,” he said. “To receive this award on this 30th anniversary is memorable because one thing is to deliver for one year but it’s a different one to deliver in a sustainable way over the years, “People thought we were crazy when we bought Paronella Park 30 years ago and it’s such a special feeling knowing that, not only are we still operating, but we’re operating at the hig-

hest standard and we’re still as excited as ever. “So thank you. We know who makes our business tick and that’s our guests and we want to thank them every day.” Other FNQ winners: • Cape York Peninsula Lodge – gold in 4-4.5 star deluxe accommodation, gold for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander experiences • Historic Village Herberton –

silver in tourist attraction • Tropic Wings Cairns – silver in major tour and transport operators • Crankworx Cairns – bronze in festival and events • Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort – bronze in 4-4.5 star deluxe accommodation. • Barefoot Tours – silver for the Steve Irwin award for eco-tourism • Cape York Camping

Punsand Bay – bronze for caravan and holiday parks • Daintree Discovery Centre – bronze in tourist attractions and bronze for the Steve Irwin award for eco-tourism • Cape York Motorcycle Adventures – bronze in adventure tourism • Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre – bronze for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander experiences.

Taylor Point buyback to feature in election campaigns l TRINITY BEACH | Nick Dalton THE buyback of Taylor Point at Trinity Beach is set to become a focus of both the local and state government elections. Community First has set the ball rolling with mayoral candidate Denis Walls and division 9 candidate Carine Visschers meeting a large group of

northern beaches residents at the home of stalwart campaigner Eugenie Navarre last Saturday to breathe new life into the campaign for the buyback of the Taylor Point headland at the end of Trinity Beach. “Now is the time to really push for the buyback of this significant 18ha property,” said Ms Visschers. “With the council election coming up and the state election next October, plus the increasing impact of four-wheel drives on

the headland, now is the time to really push for this buyback. It will be a key platform for me leading to the March 16 council elections,” she said. “Council has a major role to play in the process in partnership with the state government. Witness the relationship established at Earl Hill after the government bought back the land and the council engaged in the establishment of the paths and other infrastructure that have become such a community asset.”

Taylor Point has a long and chequered history since Josephine Blessas gifted it to Trinity Anglican School with the intention of it being used as a community space. The school sold it to developer McKellar who then on-sold it to developer Rob Prettejohn. “Mr Prettejohn has been keen to sell the Taylor Point block for a long time,” said Mr Walls. “Through his real estate agent, he has indicated that he wants to protect the environment as much as

possible in any sale and leave a strong legacy for the future. We, in the Community First team, support him in that desire,” he said. “The Save Taylor Point community group has already collected over 5000 signatures in support of the buyback.” Mr Walls said Yirrganydji traditional owners were in support and people wanted the four-wheel drive abuse to stop and the land to be rehabilitated and returned to the public domain.

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Cairns Local News, Friday, December 1, 2023 PAGE 9

Lettersto the editor

WANT TO BE HEARD? send your text to 0473 424 877 or email letters@cairnslocalnews.com.au Orange Sky laundry needs helping hand

Roohie Kullar, email: cairns.sl@orangeskyvol.org

Inner-city has gone to the dogs

Ian Wiltshire, White Rock

be a

Shaded carparks are good idea

Vocal Local join our online debate Last week we asked the question: Should there be a limit on the number of fireworks in Cairns? Why or why not? Here are some of your comments.

Vick Kandiah, Yorkeys Knob

We live in a beautiful natural place full of lovely wildlife native and otherwise. Fireworks terrify the wildlife and are not environmentally-friendly. Laser lights are the go. - Cherie Spannenburg, Facebook

Is Cairns becoming paradise or hell?

Fireworks are awesome and a good indicator that the events industry is thriving in FNQ, which is exactly what we need. - Bart Robbins, Facebook

THIS WEEK’S QUESTION Should Lake Placid become a totally croc-free zone? Why or why not?

There’s a lot to be appreciated by laser light shows. Get with the new world and phase out fireworks. - Cathie Cummins, Facebook

@cairnslocalnews Most definitely, I have loved fireworks but have learnt how much they affect wildlife and domestic

animals, so we need to look at something else. Lasers or drones do a fantastic job. - Karen Jensen, Facebook Our company travels up each year to watch the awesome fireworks in Cairns. They are top notch and a big tourism attraction for guys like us who live down south. The bigger the better. - Betnft Run, Facebook Fireworks create a sense of excitement, anticipation, and wonder. The loud booms, colourful explosions, and dazzling lights filling the sky evoke a feeling of awe and spectacle. They all contribute to a sensory experience that can be both exhilarating and mesmerising. - Shannon Westrip, Facebook

Michael Barry Henderson, Earlville

Know your rights when the bosses are ‘spying’ on you WORKPLACE surveillance of employees is becoming an increasingly hot topic as “bossware” technology develops and more people are working from home. Employers can potentially use tools like CCTV cameras, GPS tracking devices and computer monitoring software to keep an eye on what their staff are up to. These tools can track everything from the employee’s location to the number of emails sent or social media platforms visited each day.

Rachael’s view

Generally speaking, your employer can monitor your work and your performance, including how you are using your

computer. But employers should give their employees notice of any surveillance or monitoring, which is often done through the employment contract or agreement, or a workplace policy. If there are no official employer documents on this topic, workers are entitled to expect that any workplace surveillance activities are reasonable and proportionate. For example, it may be reasonable to expect that an employee who deals with financial transactions is subject to more

surveillance than someone in a role who does not handle client funds. Other legitimate reasons for monitoring employees might include checking the quality of a service, investigating potential theft or fraud, and ensuring compliance with company policies. If, however, you are allowed to use your work computer for personal purposes, any monitoring of your personal usage outside of work hours might not be considered ‘reasonable or proportionate’. While employ-

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ers in Queensland are required to comply with general laws covering surveillance devices, the surveillance of employees by employers is not specifically regulated. The Queensland Law Reform Commission has been looking at surveillance laws in recent years, and this year the Department of Justice and AttorneyGeneral released a consultation paper on these issues. The paper sought views on whether Queensland should introduce legislation to spe-

cifically regulate surveillance in the workplace to ensure an appropriate balance between the interests of employers and employees.

Rachael McMahon is a senior associate and office leader at Maurice Blackburn Lawyers’ Cairns office. This legal information is general in nature and should not be regarded as specific legal advice. If you have a legal question you would like answered, you can contact Rachael on RMcMahon@ mauriceblackburn.com.au

Cairns Alert

disaster.cairns.qld.gov.au PAGE 10 Cairns Local News, Friday, December 1, 2023

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Gazza’s Gossip

Breakfast from 6am on Douglas FM 101.5FM

Celebrating our Local artists time are a DAB hand givers l PORT DOUGLAS

AS we approach the end of the year, the Douglas Arts Studio Gallery Inc., known as DAB, is celebrating local artists and their achievements over the year, with the 21st annual art show. The gallery is located in an amazing heritage-listed building, which was originally a branch of the Port Douglas National Bank of Australasia. Architect Lange L. Powell designed the elaborate ‘Greek

l PORT DOUGLAS ON many occasions, the ‘Goss’ has celebrated the volunteers who make our communities tick. On December 5, much of the world will do the same with International Volunteers Day and locally this occasion will be acknowledged with a delightful

afternoon tea at the Port Douglas Neighbourhood Centre. This will be an opportunity to express gratitude to the wonderful people who give up their valuable time to make a positive impact in the Douglas Shire community. All volunteers, volunteer organisation office bearers, or

even those looking to volunteer in the future are welcome to the event which will be held at 6–10 Mowbray Street, Port Douglas from 2pm.

and Mareeba Flexi Choice participants, support workers and staff, plus locals and tourists all took part, getting familiar with the wheelchairs while enjoying a free barbecue, as well as being gifted a participation T-shirt, funded through a Douglas Shire Council micro grant. The fun and games, not only gave everyone the opportunity to test the wheelchairs out, but helped spread the word of the availability of the wheelchairs free of charge to locals and visitors alike, with many beachgoers learning more as they had a chat and a sausage. Currently the lifeguard hut only has space to store one of the beach wheelchairs, so Mossman

Support Services is currently investigating a solution for storage and access to their new beach wheelchair. This will ensure that it can be used by locals and tourists and provide access to some of our other beautiful beaches in the Douglas Shire. If you would like to use a beach wheelchair, pop into the surf lifeguard hut on Four Mile Beach or give Mossman Support Services a call on 4098 2836.

Anyone interested should let the Neighbourhood Centre know whether they are attending by calling 4099 5518.

Temple’ façade for this timber building to give people confidence in the bank. It seems fitting that such a beautiful building is now home for an arts studio gallery. Facilities include a studio gallery where art classes are held and members can exhibit and sell their artwork, plus there are two sheds out the back for pottery, mosaics, and glass work. A wide variety of art classes are offered where participants can learn to draw, paint, do

pottery, mosaics, or work with glass. DAB caters for absolute beginners and the more experienced artists, so there is something for everyone. This current event has been underway since November 18, however there is still plenty of time to enjoy local artistic talent as the show doesn’t finish until December 16. The gallery is open Monday to Saturday from 10am until 2pm and entry is a gold coin donation.

Just some of the fine exhibits currently on show at the Douglas Arts Studio Gallery.

When there’s a wheel, there’s a way l PORT DOUGLAS IT was just a couple of weeks ago that I promoted the ‘Sandtastic Sprint’ at Four Mile Beach which celebrated Disability Action Week. The event also launched the recently purchased beach wheelchair, achieved with funds being raised at the Mossman Support Services Bollywood Night, earlier this year. In addition to this, another beach wheelchair owned by Douglas Shire Council was put to good use. Well, last Friday the event went ahead with great success, so I couldn’t resist sharing a couple of pictures from the day. Mossman Support Services

I’m off to give one a try, so for now it’s Gazza signing out. Send your stories to gazza@cairnslocalnews. com.au

Douglas Shire’s brand-new beach wheelchairs in action at the recent Sandtastic Sprint.

Our staff need a holiday, so we’ll be closing our office for Christmas to give them a break! Our office will be closed from Friday, December 22nd 2023 Reopening Monday, January 8th 2023 Last Edition of 2023: December 22nd First Edition of 2024: January 12th

www.cairnslocalnews.com.au

Cairns Local News, Friday, December 1, 2023 PAGE 11

Wining and Dining

Sunset Bar’s happy birthday

Pier cocktail bar marks one year in business with a solid local following l MARLIN MARINA | Isabella Guzman Gonzalez LOCATED at the Marlin Marina, the Sunset Bar Cairns is celebrating one year of providing locals and tourists with the most indulging cocktails, laid back vibes and sunset views. To celebrate this milestone, the owners are throwing a birthday party on December 10 from 1pm-9pm with a live DJ, specialty cocktails and delicious tapas catered by Ochre Restaurant. Opening its doors in December of 2022, the bar launched with the premise of offering a menu of original cocktails and delectable bites that would match the view and beautiful sunsets by the marina. Owner of the Conservatory Bar and Sunset Bar Cairns Ross Stevens said it had been an exciting first year in business. “What we wanted with Sunset Bar was a quality product to match with the views of the marina and our modern design,” he said. “We also wanted to work

closely with local distilleries, so all of our base spirits come from local distilleries, the only beers we have on sale are local beers, and we work with Ochre next door to create a tapas menu. “The first year in business is incredibly difficult but the staff have done an amazing job and the community has embraced us. We are booked out on Fridays and Saturdays all the way up to Christmas and that’s our local following. It’s great.” Bar manager Hazel McCormack said they were grateful for the community’s response to the arrival of Sunset Bar Cairns. “Locals love us, and they love that we work with local distilleries. We have a very solid local following and Cairns is a small place, so by supporting each other we’ve been able to expand that community,” she said. “We get a lot of tourist walkins, but we have a strong base of regulars and the feedback we receive has been really positive because we lean on that quality service that keeps our clients coming back.” They invite the community to celebrate the birthday.

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Sunset bar owner Ross Stevens and manager Hazel McCormack mark the first anniversary of the business. Picture: Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

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Join us for celebratory drinks on Sunday the 10th of December and enjoy specials on selected drinks and cocktails. • Doors Open 1pm • DJ Lewis on the Decks On the Boardwalk next to Ochre, Marlin Parade, Harbour Lights Hotel, Cairns Waterfront PAGE 12 Cairns Local News, Friday, December 1, 2023

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Wining and Dining

Caffiend picks up national silver medal for top breakfast restaurant

Cafe best place for brekkie l CAIRNS CBD | Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

Caffiend staff Sharon Sou (left), Shaun Roseweir, owner Oliver James, Temira Tomley, and Ramona Kerbler at the Restaurant and Catering Association’s National Awards for Excellence. Picture: Restaurant and Catering Association W NE NT R ME E D GE UN NA A M

DOG

FOLLOWING a double win at the North Queensland Restaurant and Catering Hostplus Awards, Grafton St café Caffiend has been awarded silver in the best breakfast restaurant category at the Restaurant and Catering Association’s National Awards for Excellence last week. The locally-owned café was nominated in the breakfast restaurant and café dining categories and ended up taking second place nationally at the award ceremony in Sydney on November 20. Returning to its original owner Oliver James in 2022, Caffiend has gone through a transformative and successful year, hosting events like the iconic Street Art Project which gathered local artist to transform a nearby laneway with vibrant art street and garnering nominations and back-to-back wins in the North Queensland and national Restaurant and Catering Hostplus Awards. Mr James said this award honoured the year’s hard work. “This recognition on a national level is a strong indication that we’re heading in the right direction,” he said. “Being included amongst Austral-

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ia’s top hospitality professionals was an honour in itself, but bringing an award home was the cherry on top of a crazy exciting year. “I see this award as a success, not just for Caffiend, but for our wider team as a whole. We’ve made significant changes across our businesses this year – and it wouldn’t be possible without the venue teams supporting one another.” Open daily, Mr Oliver said Caffiend prided itself in offering creative dishes using local and seasonal produce with a diverse menu that offered options for plant-based diets, gluten-free and dairy free guest. The menu offers a fun and delicious twists to traditional breakfast with items like the highly popular miso scrambled eggs, tropical French toast, and favourite, the Caffiend chilli eggs. Also known for their delicious coffee, all beans the Grafton St café uses are supplied by sister company Tattooed Sailor Coffee Roasters on Newell St. Although sister venue Guyala Café is no stranger to the accolades, this is the first time Caffiend tried for the awards taking three awards across the state and national competition. “This is the first time we’ve done anything like this with Caffiend. It’s a testament to how hard the crew has worked to enhance the Caffiend experience,” Mr Oliver said

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School holiday fun

Lots of things for children to do inside and out

Playful summer plan

Why not Experience both of these unique, local icons of Port Douglas.

l DON’T get bored these summer holidays with plenty of things to do throughout the region. ISAAC COLMAN has compiled just some of the activities to do. Drop in and build Get ready for a holiday period of creative exploration and learning. Unleash your imagination as you build, design, and experiment with a variety of blocks and sets. Drop in and build’s block bonanza event is being held at Gordonvale Library on Saturday, December 9 and Smithfield Library on Saturday, January 20, both from 10am until 11.30am. From magnetic building kits to intricate geometric puzzles, block bonanza offers something for everyone. The ‘Build your own LEGO town’ event is being held at Stratford Library on Wednesday, December 13 and Cairns City Library on Wednesday, January 17, both from 10am until 11.30am.

Escape the rainforest Held at Earlville Library on Tuesday, December 12 and Smithfield Library on Tuesday, January 18, both from 10am until 5pm. An escape room activity with a Far North Queensland twist. Using the Escape Team app, participants must use their wits and problem-solving skills to survive and escape a tropical rainforest. Cairns Wake Park Kids Club Cairns Wake Park is Tropical North Queensland’s one and only cable water ski park. Cairns Wake Park offers a unique watersport experience to the young and older.

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Shaolin is one of the few authentic Chinese Junks left in the world where you can enjoy daily trips on this historic masterpiece. Design and build activities are at Cairns Libraries these summer holidays. Picture: iStock

The wake park is suitable for ages 10 and above, however, Kids Club runs on Saturday mornings and additional weekdays during Queensland school holidays aimed at children 7-12 years old. Kids club sessions run on Saturday mornings and extra days during school holidays. For more information, visit www.cairnswakepark.com/wakepark

A very vintage Christmas 4-12 years, Cairns Museum. December 1214 and 19-21 10.30–11.30 am and 2.30–3:30 pm (Tue, Wed, Thurs). Create your own diorama of a Christmas scene in 1950 – complete with your own Santa Claus and Mrs Claus paper dolls – mix and match their wardrobe and make a special STEM paper sphere Christmas bauble too. For members, the price is $10, while for non-members, the price is $15. Booking is essential, via TryBooking, visit https://bit.ly/47RfxbM

Cassowary Coast Libraries Cassowary Coast Libraries has summer school holiday activities starting December 11 through to January 19. The free activities for kids of all ages are being held across all library locations including Innisfail, Mission Beach, Tully and Cardwell. For hand-made Christmas crafts the program includes card and decoration making, as well as festive placemat weaving including Girramay traditional weaving. The summer schedule includes traditional arts and craft including papier mâché and oil slick art. Movies will feature on the big screen at Innisfail and Cardwell libraries, and young historians are invited to ‘Follow the Heritage Trail’ at Cardwell Museum and Heritage Precinct.

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Bookings are essential. To see the full line up of activities and movie features please go to www.cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au/ libraries or call 1300 366 616

Cairns Local News, Friday, December 1, 2023 PAGE 15

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YOUR DOUGLAS NEWS D E C

0 1

JANE GETS BAKING FOR CHRISTMAS MARKET THE aroma of sultanas, raisins, dates and sticky cherries wafted through the air as Jane Johnston opened the over-sized storage containers in her Port Douglas kitchen. But dried fruit is not at the top of the list when the entrepreneurial octogenarian was asked the secret to making a good Christmas pudding or cake. “Brandy and good brandy is the key. I steal it from my son Henry (owner of Seabean Tapas Bar,” Jane joked.

“It is very handy having a son that owns a restaurant.” The 87-year-old is best known for selling chutneys, relishes and jams at the Port Douglas Market’s Pickled in Port stall. However a limited run of Christmas fare, which is normally snapped up by repeat customers, is added to her offerings during December. Jane said when it came to festive food, homemade was best.

2 0 2 3

Jane Johnston, who bakes Christmas puddings and cakes, with her dried fruit supply ahead of a busy festive season.

“The ingredients they use in manufacturing come in huge amounts so you don’t get the taste,” she said. “And I don’t know if they put brandy in their puddings but in my kitchen a little brandy goes to the cook and a little goes to the pudding.” Jane said cooking had been a lifelong passion. “I had a country upbringing and I think the ﬁrst thing they do to in the country is put you in the kitchen at two (years of age) or out in the

paddock,” she said. “I enjoy cooking and what else do you do in this tiny little house?” The Christmas Market will be held on December 17. Stallholders will be decorating their stalls, and many will have a $20 and under gift range for last-minute Christmas shoppers. There will be free kids face painting (9am12pm), carollers and an appearance from Tropical Santa.

Keeping language alive at Mossman Library MOSSMAN Library’s successful Bilingual Storytime series has come to an end with a book, promoting local indigenous language, presented to Douglas Shire Mayor Michael Kerr. Jinkalmu – A Kuku Yalanji Story was created by Mossman State School in consultation with traditional owners. Indigenous Leaders of the Future mentor and Mossman State School teacher aide Sandra Burcombe said the book had been two years in the making. “To share our culture in written form as well as oral is really good and it just carries on from our language program at school,” she said. “I know of one class at the mo-

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ment who’s actually using it in their literacy program, and it’s also a resource for anyone to borrow at the library or reading room.” Mayor Kerr said the book would be a valuable inclusion to the library’s collection. “Language is part of your life and your soul and keeping it alive through this next generation is just so important,” Mayor Kerr said at the presentation. “Let’s keep it going and the more books like this we can have at the library, the better.” Jinkalmu – A Kuku Yalanji Story will also be for sale at the library and school. Money raised will go towards the Indigenous Leaders of the Future program.

Mayor Michael Kerr with Mossman State School students Lima, Aleise and Iziah and traditional owner Janice Walker.

Cairns Local News, Friday, December 1, 2023 PAGE 17

YOUR DOUGLAS NEWS

Dec 01, 2023

Remembrance Day 2023

On Saturday, November 11, the Douglas Shire community came together to pay respect to those who have served the nation in conflict. Lest We Forget.

Douglas promotion underway FAR North Queenslanders can Do It In Douglas for free with the annual Douglas Card promotion underway. Douglas Shire Council and Tourism Port Douglas Daintree (TPDD) have teamed up to kickstart the regional push to holiday in the Daintree Rainforest over the summer. Unlimited free Daintree Ferry trips and two free adult tickets to the Mossman Gorge headline the annual

PAGE 18 Cairns Local News, Friday, December 1, 2023

promotion, which also taps into the lure of the picturesque Great Barrier Reef Drive. The usual return ferry fee of $47 does not apply to local Douglas cardholders until February 29 next year. Local is classed as residents from Cardwell to Cooktown, including the Atherton Tablelands. Head to the Douglas Shire website for more information.

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YOUR DOUGLAS NEWS

Dec 01, 2023

Mountain bike mecca to open

David Gonzalez and his children James, William and Ivy have already given the skills park a test run. PREPARE for “chunks”, “skinnies” and “rainbow jumps” to enter the vernacular with the already popular sport of mountain biking poised to lift a gear in the Douglas Shire. A new mountain bike skills park will be ofﬁcially opened by the Mayor Michael Kerr at the Port Douglas sports precinct on Saturday, December 2. Mountain bike rider Dave Gonzalez said the new park would be particularly appreci-

ated by the young people of the shire. “It’s great for the kids to learn techniques and skills that they can take on the larger trails at Smithﬁeld and up at Atherton,” he said. “The jumps they’ve built at the skills park are fantastic. “The track can keep kids occupied but also challenge them in a way to progress and use these skills on natural features and natural terrain.

“The more we can get kids active and out in the community doing some fun stuff, instead of loitering around and getting up to mischief, I think is always a great idea.” Mr Gonzalez said experienced riders would enjoy the track too. “I’ve already had a cheeky run at it and there’s some little features that you can sort of pop off and hit the berms and do a few more advanced things that

the kids may not have enough speed to do just yet,” he said. The park is the vision of the Rainforest & Reef Cycling Club. Its President Rod Johnson said the “club is so excited to get this project running after nearly ten years of planning, raising funds and design work”. “It’s a real example of our local community’s small businesses, passionate cyclists, Council and volunteers donating resources, funds, materials and

know-how to make this facility a reality for the shire’s kids and mountain bikers to enjoy.” The skills park – the vision of the Rainforest and Reef Cycling Club - will be ofﬁcially opened by Mayor Michael Kerr on Saturday, December 2 (9-11am). There’ll be a jumps display, a skills session for children with ex-international MTB competitor Steven Rankin, sausage sizzle and refreshments. BYO helmet and bike.

Council’s festive season operating hours Council Customer Service COUNCIL ofﬁces will be CLOSED from 12pm Friday, 22 December 2023 to the start of business (8.30am) on Tuesday 2 January 2024. Over the Christmas period, skeleton crews will operate in Port Douglas and Mossman Depots ensuring our parks, streetscapes and amenities are kept clean and tidy. Please contact the after-hours number at 07 4099 9444 for any council-related emergencies. Daintree Ferry Christmas Day 2023 operating hours are 5.00am to Midnight. Douglas Libraries Both branches will close at 12pm on Friday 22 December. • Mossman Library will be OPEN from 10am to 2pm on Wednesday 27 December, Thursday 28 December, and Friday 29 December. • Port Douglas Library will remain CLOSED until the new year. Normal opening hours resume Tuesday 2 January 2023. Mossman Pool & Caravan Park Mossman Pool will close at 12pm on Sunday 24 December and re-open on Tuesday 2 January 2024 Mossman Caravan Park will close at 12pm on Sunday 24 to Tuesday 26 December 2023 and Monday 1 January 2024. www.cairnslocalnews.com.au

• From Wednesday 27 to Sunday 31 December 2023 reception will be open from 1pm to 4pm. • Normal operation hours will return Tuesday 2 January 2024 Wheelie Bin Service Recycling and waste collection services will operate as usual through the Christmas period. All bins must be presented before 6am on your service day. Waste Transfer stations Killaloe • CLOSED Christmas day • Open all other days, and regular trading hours apply. Newell • Regular trading hours apply. Daintree • Regular trading hours apply. Cow Bay • Regular trading hours apply. Mossman Nursery Mossman Nursery will close for the Christmas break from the 15 December 2023. The last day open to the public is Wednesday, 13 December. Nursery staff will re-stock native tree supplies throughout January 2024 due to large orders of trees allocated for revegetation works in the new year. The nursery will reopen on 1 February 2024. The ﬁrst day open to the public is Wednesday, 7 February 2024.

Cairns Local News, Friday, December 1, 2023 PAGE 19

YOUR DOUGLAS NEWS

Dec 01, 2023

HOW COUNCIL SPENDS EVERY $100: Daintree community shed planned Interest Revenue $389K

Water & Wastewater $17.90

Gardens, Parks & Sports $14.20

Roads Maintenance $16.80

Other Operating Revenue $1.1M

Infrastructure, Machinery & Facilities $12.70

Revenue

Grants & Subsidies Fees & Daintree Coast Community Shed president $3.3M Charges Col McLaughlin at the proposed site for the $7.3M new community shed in Diwan.

A concept design for the Daintree Coast Community Shed.

people who engage in different the Tea Tree Road Diwan locaferent for both men and women TALKING sport with a beer in activities in the community. tion. to enjoy” he said. hand is a popular Australian “The rest are pretty much Trade skills, furniture resto“The shed, as a community pastime but it’s not everyone’s Governance and Waste Management invisible and it’s easy to do that ration, crafts, sewing, book hub will provide opportunities cup of tea. That’s why a group in the Daintree. exchange and 3D printing will to connect in a real way& and of Douglas Shire Administration residents are Recycling Finance “We don’t really know these be just some of the activities on planning a booze-free alternative enhance the quality of life for $9.60offer once the shed is open. folk and so our aim is to extend members. The sharing of skills in Diwan - the Daintree$12.00 Coast Costs an opportunity for them to meet “While people enjoy the will demonstrate in a practical Community Shed. $171K regularly peace and seclusion of the Dain- and mix with members way how we can be of service to Project spokesperson John in comfortable surroundings – a tree region, there is always a one another.” Knights said the shed would need for interaction,” Mr Knights valuable process to keeping a Supporters of the Daintree provide an alternative meeting healthy mental state.” said. Coast Community Shed have place for locals. A freehold lease was approved “We’ve a population from the been raising money for the “It’s okay to go to the sports for the community shed in a river up to Cape Tribulation of project over the past three years club and enjoy alcoholic refreshabout 700 people and we’veStaff recent Douglas Shire Council and are planning to have it built ments there but we are looking meeting. The project is set to noticed there’s about 150 to 200 and open for business in 2024 at to provide something a bit dif-

Community & Economic Development $6.20

IT Services $5.10

Net Rates & Utilities $38.8M

to Deliver Services $18M

Expenses

cost $30,000 and will be paid for with current funds. The building itself has already been purchased so just needs to be erected on a slab and then ﬁnished off. Fundraising activities will continue as usual so that there will be sufﬁcient cash available. The project is accredited with the Australian Men’s Shed movement. Anyone interested in contributing towards the fundraising efforts should contact John Materials Knights on 0407 220 169.

& Services $21.2M

Supporting local businesses

An example is in our Wet & Dry DOUGLAS Shire Council is a member Explaning the Procurement Process Equipment Hire RFQs, which over the of the Small Business Friendly CounDouglas Shire Council manages its last two years has seen over 95 per cil’s program, managed through the procurement process through the LoDepreciation cent of the value of this work allocated Queensland Small Business Commiscal Buy and Vendor Panel platforms. to local suppliers. sioners Office. Local Buy simplifies the procure$14.2M Whilst of Council to Laws Through the program’s Charter ment process for all parties by conarter we Planning, Environment & it is a priority Health & Local support local business and facilitate necting Council with pre-qualitied are committed to supporting, promotDisaster Management $2.10 local suppliers. ing and facilitating opportunities for our economic growth in our Shire, vendors will not always be awarded small business community.$3.40 Council encourages all businesses work advertised with Council. who are considering applying for work Through Do It In Douglas we offer a This is due to consideration of reby Council to register as a prequalirange of capacity building and networksources, specialist skills, capacity and fied supplier through Local Buy. There ing opportunities, opport promote local busicost and is reflected in the evaluation is no fee for suppliers to register on ness, connect businesses with funding criteria. Local Buy, and registration also allows opportunities, encourage participation TOTAL OPERATING Ultimately Council is committed to suppliers to access and respond to in our talent directory and more. TOTAL REVENUE Mitch Bohm’s Mossman Mowers has secured deliver the best outcomes to ratepayers RFQ’s from Council’s around the State. Our procurement policy isEXPENDITURE another a lawnmowing contract with Douglas Shire whilst meeting legislative requirements, Vendor Panel is where Council pubavenue of support for local small busiand our procurement evaluation criteria lishes and manages its Tenders and nesses which is reflected in our evaluaCouncil. ensures we do exactly this. Request for Quotations (RFQs). tion criteria for RFQs and Tenders.

$53.6M

$50.8M

WHAT’S ON - December 2023 • Saturday 2nd – Mossman Markets, 7am – 1pm • Saturday 2nd – Mountain Bike Skills Park Opening, Port Douglas Sports Complex, 9am – 11am • Sunday 3rd – Port Douglas Sunday Markets, 8am – 1.30pm • Sunday 3rd – Christmas Carols under the Mossman Raintrees, 5pm – 8pm • Saturday 9th – Mossman Markets, 7am – 1pm • Sunday 10th – Port Douglas Sunday Markets, 8am – 1.30pm • Tuesday 12th – Ordinary Council Meeting, Council Administration Building, 10am • Friday 15th – Douglas Christmas Street Party, Front Street Mossman, 5pm – 9pm

• Saturday 16th – Mossman Markets, 7am – 1pm • Saturday 16th – Carols by Candlelight, Port Douglas Community Hall Gardens, 6pm – 8:30pm • Sunday 17th – Port Douglas Sunday Markets – Christmas Spectacular, 8am – 1.30pm • Saturday 23rd – Mossman Markets, 7am – 1pm • Sunday 24th – Port Douglas Sunday Markets, 8am – 1.30pm • Saturday 30th – Mossman Markets, 7am – 1pm • Sunday 31st – Port Douglas Sunday Markets, 8am – 1.30pm

07 4099 9444 | PO Box 723, Mossman Q 4873 enquiries@douglas.qld.gov.au | douglas.qld.gov.au PAGE 20 Cairns Local News, Friday, December 1, 2023

www.cairnslocalnews.com.au

Spotlight on Douglas

Developer to assess $300m luxe project

Resort appeal knocked back l PORT DOUGLAS | Nick Dalton

An artist’s impression of the new playground for Rex Smeal Park at Port Douglas. Picture: Supplied

New seaside playground l PORT DOUGLAS

THE future of a $300 million resort proposed for Port Douglas is back in the developer’s hands after a Planning and Environment Court threw out its appeal against the Douglas Shire Council rejecting the high-end property. In September 2021, the council rejected the proposal by Chiodo Corporation Operations due to the development being inconsistent with development outcomes sought by the planning scheme. The appeal against council’s decision to refuse the development application was dismissed by the court on November 14. A summary of the appeal said: “The proposed development is not inappropriate because of a modern design, but because that design is wildly discordant with the character of Port Douglas.

An artist’s impression of the proposed Fairmont Resort.

“It has the potential to diminish the experience of those visiting Port Douglas. “What rings through with great finality is the importance of protecting what is unique and special to Port Douglas’ character.” Douglas Shire Mayor Michael Kerr said he was pleased with the decision. “This is a landmark case that reinforces the type and form of development that is appropriate,” he said. “The refusal of the development application reinforces the importance of the character and sense of place. We

remain committed to improving and enhancing the shire and have already approved a number of developments that fit within the requirements of council’s planning scheme.” Paul Chido’s plans for the Fairmont Resort included a First Nations design element which would have been underpinned by “modern Indigenous characteristics”. It included several restaurants and bars, a decadent day spa, a treetop walk, panoramic conference and wedding facilities – all designed around resort-style pools.

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TimeOut

Symphony on the Reef

Jazz muso on hold

Queensland’s peak orchestra to perform at 2024 Carnivale l CAIRNS CBD

Queensland Symphony Orchestra’s chief conductor Umberto Clerici will be performing at Port Douglas next year.

Picture: Kris Anderson

l PORT DOUGLAS | Nick Dalton DOUGLAS Shire Council is celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Port Douglas Carnivale with a history-making performance by the Queensland Symphony Orchestra (QSO). The QSO’s Symphony Under the Stars concert will be held at Rex Smeal Park on May 25. Douglas Shire Mayor Michael Kerr said he was thrilled the iconic event would be partnering with the QSO for the first time. “The Queensland Symphony

Orchestra is one of the finest orchestras in the country and we are honoured to have them perform at Carnivale for the event’s 30th anniversary,” he said. “They will bring a new dimension to the anniversary program and will create a memorable night for families and people of all ages, with entertainment that crosses generations. “I encourage everyone to experience classical music live and presented in one of the most beautiful settings in the world for the upcoming Carnivale.” The Symphony Under the

Stars concert on May 25 will feature the world premiere of Symphony No.3, Great Barrier Reef (2024) by Queensland’s acclaimed composer Paul Dean, dedicated to the Great Barrier Reef, QSO chief executive Yarmila Alfonzetti said the performance was part of QSO’s ambitious five-year regional touring strategy which woud see the orchestra travel some 13,445km in 2024 alone. “Queensland Symphony Orchestra (QSO) was already the most travelled orchestra in the country, constantly fulfill-

ing its commitment to share orchestral music with all Queenslanders,” she said. “We are thrilled to be performing this world premiere in Port Douglas, the perfect location as the neighbour to the Reef.” Next year’s 30th Carnivale runs from May 24-26 and will celebrate the diverse and vibrant culture of Tropical North Queensland, showcasing the best of its food, natural beauty, art, community and entertainment. Cr Kerr said the Spiegeltent would again prove a highlight.

“The Spiegeltent is a magical venue that transports you to another world where anything is possible,” he said. “It’s a much-loved part of the Carnivale, which aims to surprise and entice our visitors with a variety of experiences.” Expressions of interest are now open for Carnivale sponsors, partners and event organisers to be involved with the 30th anniversary event. For more information, announcements and to buy tickets head to www.carnivale.com.au

PO ST

PAGE 22 Cairns Local News, Friday, December 1, 2023

GIFTED Japanese jazz musician Hanah Spring, who was due to star at the Reef Hotel Casino tonight, tomorrow and next weekend has had to postpone her performances. “Unfortunately, Hanah S p r i n g ’s performances in December at The Reef Hotel Casino are now postponed due to illness,” said casino entertainment manager Bruce Stewart. “The casino is looking forward to welcoming Hanah (above) in 2024,” he said. Performing as a solo musician, the singer-songwriter now has a major following at venues and festivals throughout Japan and abroad, and has just released her album, also named “Sozo”, live at Billboard Live Yokohama. After graduating from high school, Ms Spring began her music career in earnest, honing her skills as an artist while having sessions with various musicians in the underground scene of Shibuya, Tokyo, and participating in various live performances and recordings as a guest vocalist. She also served as the opening act for famous overseas artists such as Erykah Badu, The Roots, and Musiq Soulchild, as well as with Japanese R&B sensation Misia.

PO NE D

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Time Out

COMING UP FRI 20 OCT

Chong Lim and Balla Neba joined forces to produce Deeyamithadda. Picture: Supplied

Special creative musical alliance l CAIRNS CBD WORLD-renowned composers, musicians and vocalists gathered in Cairns recently to begin the creative journey on the highly anticipated multiartform mainstage production, Deeyamithadda (Dance Spirit in Gangulu). Leading the music direction is industry legend Chong Lim, who has left an indelible mark on the music world, having worked alongside international megastars like Kylie Minogue, Coldplay and Robbie Williams. From the vision of Wakka Wakka/Gangulu choreographer, director and artist Balla Neba, with co-artistic directors of Strong House Arts, Yvette Walker and Naomi Wenitong, Deeyamithadda promises to be a powerful and moving exploration of struggle, resilience, community, connection and faith. Ms Lim said of his experiences in Cairns that it was an “honour to embark on this journey as the musical director”, having first worked with Balla Neba and Yvette Walker last year for the Commonwealth Games

handover in Birmingham. “What Strong House Arts has delivered thus far is absolutely world-class, from their processes, their spirit and the way in which they work,” he said. “They are one of the most professional and impressive companies that I’ve ever worked with – the talents of the team are up there with the best of the world, and I say this having worked with the best in the world. “I believe that it has the ability to be one of Australia’s leading stage productions that will garner international acclaim.” Yvette Walker, co-artistic director of Strong House Arts, said completing the first stage of the two-year creative process, to produce a captivating and emotionally charged musical score that will be the heartbeat of the production, was a huge milestone for the team. “Our incredible ensemble of collaborators have immersed themselves in the world of Deeyamithadda to develop the samples of the original soundscape,” she said. “To have artists of this calibre here – with Lim’s renowned

THU 7 DEC

work, exceptional natural talent and rising star, music composer Tristan Barton, musical talents of locals Kingdom Voices and Nightshift and the entire Deeyamithadda team – has enriched this initial music development.” Deeyamithadda is a semiautobiographical work that follows the extraordinary journey of Balla Neba, from his early days in Woorabinda and Cherbourg to the challenges he faced as a homeless teenager on the city streets of Meanjin/Brisbane to that of a young man who has reached incredible heights of success on the world stage. As the creative for Deeyamithadda evolves, it paves the way for its premiere at Cairns Festival in 2025 ahead of its official world premiere at the Brisbane Festival in September 2025, with an anticipated international tour in 2026. While Balla Neba acknowledged there was still a long way to go, the recent collaboration with such talented professionals, had been nothing short of inspiring, equipping him as a lyrical choreographer with the basis and foundation of exceptionally inspiring original soundscapes.

FRI 20 OCT

FRI 1 MAR

FRI 20 OCT

Museum wins honours

SAT 2 MAR

l BABINDA | Isaac Colman LESS than a year after its official opening, Babinda Museum is the winner of three gallery and museum achievement awards at the Museums and Galleries Queensland 2023 awards ceremony last week. The museum’s official opening in January 2023 was after almost six years of volunteer work by a small group of Babinda locals and the Queensland Museum’s senior museum fevelopment officer in FNQ, Dr Jo Wills. The group of locals formed a steering committee, which then became a subcommittee of Babinda District Community Association Inc. Working with Dr Wills, the committee was able to develop a strategic plan, engage with the community, seek and secure funding through multiple grants, sponsorships, and community fundraisers, undertake training in museum practices

FRI 20 OCT

Babinda Museum committee members Rosemary Ambrum (left), Liza Czeszek, Tanya Tuttle, Trevor Vicarioli, Nolan Sheehan, Lee Antoni, Kitty Anning and Patsy Hannam.

and collection management, develop policies and procedures for the museum, before finally designing and installing each exhibition for the museum. At all times during the museum’s development, the committee held an admirably strong commitment to inclusive representation as well as reconciliation. Museum and Galleries Queensland executive director Rebekah Butler acknowledged the authenticity of the museum in the announcement of the awards, emphasising the genu-

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ine nature of the volunteers. “Going into this project, none of the volunteers had any experience of museum work or fully understood the ability of culture to drive community wellbeing,” she said. Ms Butler also emphasised both the personal and community growth achieved by the committee. “Not only have they created a quality museum and cultural attraction for Babinda, but they have also grown in confidence and developed valuable new skills,” she saidf.

MAS MINIMALS & STU HARCOURT

SAT 16 MAR

tanksartscentre.com 9-11 Florence Street, Cairns | cairnsperformingartscentre.com.au

Cairns Local News, Friday, December 1, 2023 PAGE 23

Time Out

Fun, fast-paced political satire Koalazilla explores city corruption Gifts that

Best of JUTE’s talent l CAIRNS CBD JUTE graduates will showcase their acting smarts in an exciting new Cairns-made production, Koalazilla, at Bulmba-ja Arts Centre tonight and tomorrow night. In association with Overall Arts and the senior graduating class of JUTE Actors Studio (JAS), JUTE Theatre Company will present Koalazilla, an exciting new work by Cairns’ emerging playwright Keziah Warren. Developed within the supportive, creative development framework of JUTE Theatre Company, Koalazilla is a fun and fast-paced political satire set in Paper City, exploring the universal themes of corruption, conspiracy, and the courage to stand up against injustice. All is well in politically correct Paper City until one day when the city’s government, corrupt to its core, endorses an environmentally disastrous mining project. While deftly juggling the roles of co-producer, director and JAS facilitator, Amber

keep growing

l EDGE HILL WHAT could be better than giving a gift that keeps on growing and one that also helps the Cairns Botanic Gardens grow? The annual plant sale run by the Friends of Botanic Gardens Cairns gives all f u n d s raised back to make the gardens an even better attraction for locals and visitors. Volunteer Lee Ross said all funds go towards buying plants and infrastructure, such as seating, for the gardens. “The Gardeneers are a volunteer group who have been propagating plants for sale for more than 20 years,” she said. Trees, shrubs, creepers and climbers including aristolochia acuminata, the food plant of the Cairns birdwing butterfly, hoyas and a variety of indoor and understorey plants are all for sale. Rhizomes and potted plants such as gingers and heliconias will also be available, with prices ranging from $8.

Grossmann of Overall Arts said Koalazilla had been a rewarding project and was the perfect platform to challenge and demonstrate the skills and growth of JAS’ acting cast and other young and emerging creatives. From its base in Cairns, JUTE Theatre Company has 31 years of experience creating new works – a process that generally takes several years and requires much moulding and shaping. JUTE’s artistic director and CEO Suellen Maunder said the organisation was proud to develop new Australian stories and never tired of providing guidance, frameworks and support that generated the next wave of theatre makers like Amber, Keziah, the young designers and, of course, the young actors from JUTE Actors Studio. “This week’s performance showcase of Koalazilla is a harvest of what we sew. We can learn and achieve great things by collaborating and supporting one another,” she said. “For JUTE, this is a perfect example of the transformative power of theatre, both for creatives and audience,” Ms Maunder said.

Koalazilla’s producer and director Amber Grossmann (left) with playwright Keziah Warren.

The Friends Christmas Plant Sale is on Sunday, December 3, 8am to noon on the Teak Lawn, Botanic Gardens, Collins Avenue, Edge Hill.

Koalas draw tourists to handy city centre l CAIRNS CBD | Isaac Colman LAST month’s closure of successful and immersive tourist attraction Cairns ZOOM and Wildlife Dome has paved the way for a new tourism experience with parent company CaPTA Group. Positioned in the convenient location of the Pier Cairns shopping centre, this new attraction is focused on combining family entertainment with

environmental education. The experience features an immersive journey that spans from the vibrant depths of the Great Barrier Reef to the simple but beautiful rugged Australian Outback, all while educating through entertaining. The attraction is scheduled to be completed in March 2024, but eager visitors will not have to wait after the woodlands section of the experience was unveiled last week. The woodlands exhibit, the

first unveiled section of the attraction, showcases Australia’s unique woodland creatures and brings attention to the challenges they face in their natural habitats. Guests can engage with koalas LuLu, Pavlova, and Nellie, who have recently relocated from the beloved Cairns ZOOM and Wildlife Dome. CaPTA Group attractions general manager Andrew Hearn said he was excited to be able to work with the Pier

Cairns, sharing his motive of providing family entertainment and education in a convenient location. “The woodlands exhibit is just the beginning of our commitment to delivering an immersive journey that combines family entertainment with environmental education,” said Mr Hearn. “Cairns visitors can expect a unique blend of excitement and insight, as we unveil the full attraction in late March 2024.” T&C Apply.

PAGE 24 Cairns Local News, Friday, December 1, 2023

www.cairnslocalnews.com.au

Time Out

Artworks reach state’s peak

Cairns students’ ingenious talents on display at distinguished Brisbane gallery l CAIRNS | Gail Sedorkin THREE Cairns art students will exhibit at the prestigious Gallery of Modern Art in Brisbane as recognition of their exceptional artistic talent. Phuong Le and Imogen Loukas of Cairns State High School and Dante Brim of Trinity Bay State High School were among the 37 Queensland senior students to receive excellence awards at this year’s creative generation excellence awards in visual art. The winning students’ works were selected from 459 submissions from 177 schools across the state with the excellence award winners’ work to be exhibited at the QAGOMA from 27 April to 25 August 2024. The annual awards program recognises and promotes excellence in senior visual art education at state and non-state schools. Cairns State High School was one of only four schools across the state to claim two excellence awards each. One student from each region also received a regional encouragement award and this year it was awarded to Harriet Mills, also of Cairns State High School. Of the 459 submissions, 104 students from across Queensland received commendation awards including three students from Trinity Bay State High School, Ci’ellah Anu,

Lilly Suli Brock and Shirley Vue, together with Lora Xiong of Good Counsel College (Innisfail) and Jennifer Thiele of St Monica’s College (Cairns), Education Minister Grace Grace said the quality of works this year was a testament to the exceptional artistic abilities of Queensland’s secondary school students. “The opportunity to have work shown in QAGOMA is once-in-a-lifetime for these aspiring young artists,” she said. • Dante Brim: “Shield Protection” (installation). This installation honours the knowledge and legacy of my ancestors that live through me. The images are all taken in 1938 as part of the Yarrabah Mission records. The images are of my ancestors Wallace, Margaret, and George Singleton.” • Phuong Le: “AI Realities” (video). “Al Realities” is a nonnarrative, experimental short film exploring the new and ever evolving power of Al and technology using ChatGPT to create ideas (realities) and then creating those ideas into reality using Unreal Engine S (UES).” • Imogen Loukas: “My curated life” (video). “A film created specifically for viewing on mobile phone devices. All sounds, images and filming were created by me. This work is a combination of my own filming, screen recording, sound editing with the final edit and compositing in final cut pro and exported for phone devices.”

Phoung Le, of Cairns State High School, with his AI Realities video.

Dante Brim, of Trinity Bay State High School, with her installation “Shield Protection” honouring her ancestors. Pictures: Leanne Hardy

Imogen Loukas, of Cairns State High School, also produced a video called My curated life.

16th December

A special visit from

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Cairns Local News, Friday, December 1, 2023 PAGE 25

WHAT’S ON

For more events visit cairnscalendar.com.au

CHRISTMAS FAIR @ CAIRNS POTTERS CLUB l SAT DEC 2, 8:00AM–2:00PM

The Cairns Potters Club traditionally holds its Annual Christmas Fair on the first Saturday in December every year. This year they have more stalls with talented local artists selling unique, hand-crafted pottery, sculptures and paintings. There will be clay play for kids, wheel throwing demonstrations and refreshments. This is a great opportunity for you to see what the Cairns Potters Club has to offer. Find out about the club facilities that are available as well as the classes the club runs. Location: Potters clubhouse, 28a Grove Street (near the train crossing).

CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHT-UP @ ESPLANADE l FRI DEC 1, 5:30PM-8:00PM

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

FRIDAY Dunwoody’s Hotel Bobby Mguire, 4:00pm The Crown Hotel Janna Mercedes, 6:00pm Chill at Portofino Silver Fox Jazz Band, 6:00pm Cazaly’s Cairns Fingerprint, 6:30pm Mission Beach Blues Bar & Café Denim Blues, 6:30pm Atherton International Club Infinity Duo, 7:00pm

Council’s Christmas Tree will be lit up on 1st December! Come down in your best Christmas attire and catch the adorable duo, Bluey & Bingo live on stage with their special FREE Christmas Shows. The Christmas Tree lights will be switched on at 7pm, by the Mayor, and the winners of the Christmas eCard Competition. Where: Lagoon Plaza, Cairns Esplanade Note: this event may be cancelled at short notice in the event of unfavourable or unsafe weather conditions. See Council’s Facebook page for status change: https://www.facebook.com/CairnsRegionalCouncil

Surf Club Palm Cove Live Music, 7:00pm

XMAS FESTIVAL @ FRESHWATER TENNIS CLUB

SATURDAY

l FRI DEC 1, 5:30PM-9:00PM

A FREE family event celebrating community – food vans & market stalls, licensed bar, live music, children’s castles, slides, face painting and entertainment, tennis & more! We are delighted to have Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures back on board as our presenting partner. This year will showcase up to 50 stalls including local food vans and market stalls plus community and charity organisation displays. Market stalls include a great selection of locally made arts and crafts. We invite you to come along, enjoy the evening and support your local community.

UNSEEN CINEMA @ CAIRNS CENTRAL l SUN DEC 3, 4:30PM-6:30PM

LAST FILM SHOW (PG) India at Event Cinemas, Cairns Central Samay, a 9-year-old boy living with his family in a remote village in India discovers films for the first time and is absolutely mesmerized. Against his father’s wishes, he returns to the cinema day after day to watch more films, and even befriends the projectionist, who, in exchange for his lunch box, lets him watch movies for free. In Gujarati – English subtitles (MA) 112min Book your tickets through trybooking.

Centrals Trinity Sporting Club Skye Karaoke, 7:30pm Clink Theatre Creative Souls Choir, 7:30pm The Jack Wild Willy, 9:00pm Bar 36 Reef Hotel Casino Sanchez, 9:00pm PJ O’Brien’s Kaweyova, 9:30pm

Koah Hall Blue Reed, 8:00am St Monica’s Cathedral Cairns Classical Music Group, 2;00pm Surf Club Palm Cove Darron Beahan, 2:00pm Strait on the Beach Barbary Coasters, 3:00pm Yorkey’s Knob Boating Club Janna Mercedes, 3:00pm The Benson Hotel Sax Man, 5:00pm Cairns Show Grounds Joy to the World, 5:00pm Pirate Den Mission Beach Cassady Connections, 6:00pm Petit Café Kuranda Blue Reed, 6:00pm Cazaly’s Cairns Infinity Duo, 6:15pm Mission Beach Blues Bar & Café Denim Blues, 6:30pm Kairi Hotel Carinda Christie, 7:00pm Clink Theatre Creative Souls Choir, 7:30pm Red Beret Hotel True North Boogie Band, 8:00pm Bar 36 Reef Hotel Casino Tony George, 9:00pm PJ O’Brien’s Kaweyova, 9:30pm

SUNDAY

PARAMOUR CABARET @ THE HILTON HOTEL l FRI DEC 1, 7:30PM-10:30PM

It’s been over a year since The Paramour Cabaret has hit the stage and we thought it was time to party again! Join Sylvester Valentine and his team of performers for a 1 night only event as we bring back some classic acts and squeeze in some new ones! Perfect for a company Christmas function or just a great night out! Cabaret Cost: $65.00 Dinner & Show Cost: $145.00 Book your tickets through Paramour Cabaret

Mandala Café Blue Reed, 10:00am Dundees at the Aquarium DjGlennW, 11:30am Boscas Wind and Wood, 12:00pm Mountain View Hotel Denim Blues, 12:00pm The Red Beret Hotel Paul Stevenson, 1:00pm Dunwoody’s Hotel The Vibes, 2:00pm Tuskers Cassady Connections, 5:30pm Bar 36 Reef Hotel Casino The Dannies, 7:30pm

REDLYNCH MARKETS @ XAVIER HERBERT PARK l SAT DEC 2, 5:00PM-8:00PM

The Redlynch Twilight Markets are held bi-monthly at the Xavier Herbert Park in Redlynch Valley. Lots of different stalls, lots of local art and crafts, clothing, homemade jewellery and household items, lots of food and coffee vendors, licensed bar with Eftpos, jumping castle, local fundraising activities by local community groups. We welcome buskers and they are free to come along! Where: Xavier Herbert Park in Redlynch Valley Time: 5.00pm till 8.00pm Please check directly with Redlynch Valley Community Group Inc Facebook page to confirm markets are on. PAGE 26 Cairns Local News, Friday, December 1, 2023

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.

www.cairnslocalnews.com.au

Take a minute... Puzzles for you Friday 1st Max 34o Min 23o

Tide Times 0451 1.03 1238 2.48

Saturday 2nd Max 34o Min 24o

Tide Times 0535 1.23 1404 2.40 2337 1.34

Sunday 3rd Max 34o Min 23o

Tide Times 0406 1.44 0702 1.39 1519 2.38 2344 1.26

SUDOKU

Monday 4th Max 34o Min 23o

Tide Times 0506 1.61 0856 1.47 1614 2.40 2345 1.19

MEDIUM #163

Wednesday 6th Max 32o Min 23o

Tide Times 0536 1.77 1013 1.47 1653 2.41 2350 1.11

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.

EASY #163

Tuesday 5th Max 33o Min 23o

Tide Times 0600 1.94 1106 1.44 1725 2.42

WORD SEARCH

Awning Bench Bush Deck Edger Garbage can Garden Gate

Weekly Horoscopes CROSSWORD Taurus

Gemini

Mar 21 to Apr 20

Apr 21 to May 20

May 21 to Jun 21

You will find that superiors may not see situations as you do. You will enjoy interacting with those who come from different backgrounds. Think about taking the time to complete unfinished domestic chores. You can expect insincere gestures of friendliness this week.

Underhandedness will affect your reputation. The danger of minor accidents will increase with the turmoil. Catch up on your correspondence and reading. Your need to be in a leadership position will help you surpass any rivals you might encounter.

Travel could be in order. You could lose money or precious belongings if you aren’t careful. Don’t overextend yourself in order to add luxury items to your entertainment centre. You can make money through real estate or by using your head when it comes to personal investments.

Cancer

Leo

Virgo

Jun 22 to Jul 22

Jul 23 to Aug 22

Aug 23 to Sep 22

After all, they may have valuable information to pass on. Traffic will be busier than you anticipated, so try to get a head start if you have made plans to travel. Partners may try to argue with you; however, you must stand your ground. You can make major accomplishments while on short trips.

This could be a difficult day to deal with coworkers. Your ability to add a sophisticated touch will help you capture the look you’re after. You can travel for business or pleasure. Don’t let someone talk you into parting with your cash unless you can truly see the benefits of doing so.

Social evenings at your place will be highly successful. You can develop your creative talents if you take the time to practice your art. Insincere gestures of friendliness may be misleading. You can convince others to follow suit.

Scorpio

Sagi arius

Libra

Sep 23 to Oct 22

Oct 23 to Nov 21

Your ability to be practical in business will help. You’re on to something tangible and need to act fast If you can work at home, do so. You may be emotional and quick to judge others.

Your ability to charm others will bring added popularity. Good day for romance. Do not sign your life away. Try a barbecue or a day at the beach.

Capricorn

Aquarius

Nov 22 to Dec 20

Try not to overspend on friends or family. You can make extra cash if you act on a hunch. Your need to use emotional blackmail will only cause more conflict. Stay mellow.

Pisces

Dec 21 to Jan 19

Jan 20 to Feb 18

Feb 19 to Mar 20

Tempers could boil if someone you work with has not been pulling their weight. Your ability to add a sophisticated touch will help you capture the look you’re after. Travel will be to your advantage; however, it might be expensive. Minor accidents may occur if you don’t concentrate on what you’re doing.

Property investments, insurance, taxes, or inheritance should bring you financial gains. Be sure to spend time helping children with projects that are too difficult for them to accomplish alone. Some of your new friends may not be that trustworthy. Involve yourself in group endeavours.

Travel if it’s needed to start the ball rolling. Look into events that you might find interesting, and compromise by doing a few things that you both like to do. Organize your house and be sure to include the whole family in projects. Involvement in sports will lead to new romances.

www.cairnslocalnews.com.au

Tide Times 0001 1.01 0624 2.10 1147 1.41 1750 2.41

HARD #163

Solutions Aries

Thursday 7th Max 33o Min 22o

Grass Hammock Hedges Hoe Hose Land Lawn Orchard

Path Planter Pond Porch Rake Shed Shrub Soil

Swing set Terrace Trampoline Tree Verandah Vine Weeds Yard

as spinach or cabbage when eaten as food (6) 25. an opportunity for action or success, especially at the expense of others (5,3) 26. a long seat that has a back and arms for two or more people (6) 27. out of the ordinary; unusual (8) DOWN

ACROSS 1. a lively dance associated with sailors (8) 5. to totally bewilder or perplex (6) 9. lacking humility or decency (8) 10. a rod used to ram the charge into a muzzle-loading firearm (6) 11. to make something secret known (8) 12. a piece of confectionery; a sweet (6) 14. to affirm or declare positively or earnestly (10) 18. in a rude and unfriendly way (10) 22. a chemical element with the symbol Ba (6) 23. to jostle or struggle for possession of something (8) 24. the leaves of green vegetables such

1. the way in which a person’s hair is styled (6) 2. to abolish or get rid of something (6) 3. a small pedal-operated pleasure boat (6) 4. demanding someone’s total attention and love (10) 6. a mollusk found in warm seas (8) 7. an ancestor (8) 8. to put someone or something at risk or in danger (8) 13. the election of someone to a further term of office (10) 15. large, round vegetables with large green, white, or purple leaves (8) 16. inordinately interested in matters of sex (8) 17. the act of supplying an official document (8) 19. a shout to attract attention, esp to call hounds at a hunt (6) 20. in the same place (used when citing a reference) (6) 21. relating to Kenya or its people (6)

Cairns Local News, Friday, December 1, 2023 PAGE 27

Motoring The ‘Blueberry’ Mazda3 in the middle of the Outback. Pictures: Supplied

Little ‘Blueberry’ Mazda3 tackles the great Outback One Pack Wanderers Cheveyo and Tia (surnames not provided) in their 18-year-old Mazda3 which faultlessly drove 28,000km around Australia.

l ROAD TRIP | Nick Dalton TWO full-time travellers have successfully completed a 28,000km road trip throughout Australia in an 18-year-old Mazda. YouTube duo Tia and Cheveyo (surnames not provided) from One Pack Wanderers arrived in Perth earlier this year and embarked on a once-in-alifetime driving adventure. The pair chose a 2005 Maz-

da3 sedan – dubbed Blueberry – for their journey, forgoing a 4x4 dual-cab ute or campervan. Starting in Perth, the adventurous couple drove down to Albany and then across the Nullarbor Plain on to Adelaide and then Melbourne, where they announced a major decision. “We are going to attempt to circumnavigate the entire continent, which Australians call ‘The Big Lap’,” said Tia. Cheveyo prepared the duo’s ‘winning blue’ Mazda3 with an oil and filter change and a

thorough inspection before departing. Their extended journey took them to Sydney and Brisbane and then on to Cairns. The couple then headed west to Darwin before heavy rains stopped their progress. The Great Northern Highway at the Fitzroy Crossing was closed due to flooding, and no nearby detour was available. “After months on the road, having covered thousands of miles in trusty little Blueberry, the thing that stopped us was

Mother Nature,” said Cheveyo. “The only available detour back to Perth that was doable with Blueberry had us cutting through the centre of the continent.” The couple then drove down to Alice Springs, Uluru and Coober Pedy before making a right-turn across the Nullarbor again and back to their starting point in Perth. “This place is a wild land that demands adaptability and patience,” said Tia. “You can’t come here and

Tia and Cheveyo and their Mazda3 at the end of the Nullabor Plain.

plan for everything because Australia will surprise you. I think that is a huge part of what made this trip so special. “It was just the two of us, and little Blueberry, accepting what came.” The Arizona couple’s 18-year-old Mazda3 completed more than 28,000 kilometres of long-distance driving without a single technical issue during their months-long adventure in Australia. “She never missed a beat, which I think is quite the feat

considering Australia’s often difficult climate,” said Cheveyo. They sold their ever-dependable Mazda3 sedan to a family in Perth before continuing their travels in New Zealand. Tia and Cheveyo from One Pack Wanderers have explored more than 30 countries since they started travelling full-time in mid-2020. Visit https://www.youtube. com/watch?v=uoU41ZAw5z8 to discover more about their Australian travel adventures with Blueberry the Mazda3.

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Motoring Guide

Survey shows Aussies still prefer combustion engines over electric vehicles

We’re a nation of revheads l SPECIAL REPORT | Nick Dalton

Kel Moore, of Brinsmead, with his 1971 VH Valiant Ranger XL, is one Queenslander who prefers a traditional combustion engine car. Picture: Nick Dalton

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DESPITE high fuel prices roaring across the country, the latest research from Compare the Market has found that most Australians still prefer a combustion engine car over an electric vehicle (EV). The survey, which asked Australians if they would prefer a petrol or diesel-based car or an EV if they were of the same make, model and price, found that 46.4 per cent said that a traditional vehicle was their preference. A further 14.1 per cent said they had no preference, while just under two in five said they would prefer an EV. Compare the Market’s general insurance and car insurance expert Adrian Taylor said the trend could be because Australia ranks as one of the worst countries for EVs, according to recent Compare the Market research. “The fact that combustion engine cars are still preferred in Australia makes sense given that our recent research shows that Australia is lagging in EV infrastructure across the country,” he said. “Out of the 29 OECD countries we looked at, Australia came out third last, only just

beating Switzerland and Portugal and Turkiye in equal second worst place. “When you drive down the road in a major city, you’d be hard to pressed not to find at least a petrol station within a couple of kilometres, while charging stations, not to mention fast charging stations, are harder to find. “Upkeep of EVs could be another reason preferences haven’t changed much. Besides the rising cost of electricity at home, we also know that at the moment, insurance for EVs is generally higher than similar classed traditional vehicles. And with so many families under the pump due to the costof-living crisis, they may think twice about preferring an electric car. “These higher prices from insurers are due to a variety of reasons, but one prominent reason is due to specialised qualifications needed for people who can fix EVs both on the roadside and in the shop, which is currently limited. “Hopefully, as more service personnel and auto shops complete these qualifications, we’ll see the prices drop.” The research also found that Millennials were the only generation to prefer an EV (45.6 per cent) over a petrol or diesel-based car (39.5 per cent), while

Baby Boomers were the most likely to select a combustion engine vehicle (53.6 per cent). As for the state which loves the purr of an engine the most? Queenslanders cross the finish line first, with over half of the people surveyed stating that they’d choose a petrol or diesel car over an EV any day of the week. South Australians came second, with just under 46 per cent loving the rumble underneath their seats, while Victoria was the only state where an equal number of people would prefer an EV or a combustion-engine car. Whatever your car preferences may be, Mr Taylor said all drivers should consider comprehensive car insurance for their new car. “Regardless of what you drive, you should consider putting comprehensive car insurance on the shopping list whenever you decide to buy a new car,” he said. “You might think that you’re saving money by only paying for compulsory third-party insurance with your registration, but if something does happen in your vehicle, comprehensive car insurance could take the brunt of the financial burden rather than having to pay outof-pocket for damages from an accident.”

Cairns Local News, Friday, December 1, 2023 PAGE 29

Real Estate

New body corporate rules

Changes to outdoor smoking, pets and unwanted vehicle disposals approved

l SPECIAL REPORT | Nick Dalton PET approvals, banning of smoking and vaping in outdoor and common areas, and faster towing of unwanted vehicles at body corporates have been passed by the Queensland Government. The Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ) commends the changes to a number of contentious body corporate matters that were previously placed in the “too hard basket”, and have now been bought into line with modern community expectations. The Body Corporate and Community Management and Other Legislation Amendment Act 2023 was passed by the government earlier this month, overhauling several acts that regulate community title schemes in Queensland. In summary, the body corporate changes will: • Allow body corporates to make by-laws to prohibit smoking (including vapes) in outdoor areas and communal areas of strata communities

• Prevent body corporates from making by-laws with blanket pet bans in community title schemes, and introduce a mechanism for pet approvals • Clarify and enhance the ability for body corporates to tow vehicles from common property in a timely manner, and • Reduce consensus for scheme termination from unanimous to 75 per cent of lot owners in limited circumstances. REIQ chief executive Antonia Mercorella said the reforms would help modernised apartment and unit living. “The REIQ certainly supports the viewpoint that quiet enjoyment of people’s homes is a right that should be upheld and not restricted as much as possible,” she said. “However, we recognise that due to the nature of sharing a title and being in close quarters, there needs to be laws that govern communities with clarity and necessary protections to keep everyone within them safe. “As our population grows, living in apartments and units is

becoming more common place, and it’s important to ensure our laws keep pace with changing community standards and expectations, and are balanced so that this lifestyle remains attractive in our state.” Ms Mercorella said the ability for body corporates to self-regulate and potentially prohibit smoking in outdoor areas such as balconies, courtyards, patios and verandas had attracted a high level of debate. “When moving into a unit or apartment complex, people generally go in eyes-wide-open and understand that there are certain limits that apply to common use areas,” she said. “However, many of us agree that ‘my home is my castle’ and that you should be able to live the life you want to live when you’re in the boundaries of your own home. “Of course, the challenge comes with the fact that when you live in an apartment or a unit, your activity can also have an impact on others who live very close by – which is the case with smoke drift and second-hand smoke risk.”

Body corporates will be able to ban smoking in outdor and common areas Picture: iStock

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST 232 PALMERSTON HIGHWAY, O’BRIENS HILL ON TWO TITLES PURCHASE BOTH TITLES, OR PURCHASE INDIVIDUALLY.·

OPTION 1: Lot 3 - House and shed on 1.189 Ha* OPTION 2: Lot 6 - Land - 3.847 Ha* OPTION 3: BOTH TITLES - 5.036 Ha*

EOI closes 4pm Friday 8th December 2023. Inspections available by appointment. All offers to be made in writing. List# 1666

https://aarealty.net/rural/1666/

For Further Information Contact Alf on 0418 774 849

A HOME DESIGNED FOR THE TROPICS!

DOUBLE STOREY HOME

Land Area 911 Sqm 3 1 2 This Queensland double storey home is a perfect blend of comfort, functionality, and style, catering to a variety of living needs. • Three bedrooms, two with built-in robes. • Good size kitchen • indoor stairwell $280,000

List #1664

• Tiled front patio • One garage plus car port • Entertainment area downstairs.

https://aarealty.net/property/1664/

Contact Zoe on 0490 020 644

PAGE 30 Cairns Local News, Friday, December 1, 2023

*All boundaries/land areas are approximate only

• Spacious Air-conditioned Living Area • Fans $295,000

Land Area 608 Sqm

• Fenced rear yard • Wide covered patio • Corner block in quiet street

List #1665 https://aarealty.net/property/1665/

Contact Louise on 0448 751 963

MUST SEE HOME IN BELVEDERE

Land Area 791 Sqm

• 3 bedrooms, entertainment area or possible 4th bedroom. • Spacious home with enclosed patio. • 1 bathroom and extra vanity & toilet for those busy mornings. • Airconditioned main bedroom, living & entertainment area. • 3 car garage with 1 auto door. • 791sqm corner block – side yard fenced for pets. $395,000

List #1649

https://aarealty.net/property/1649/

Contact Kylie on 0428 944 563

www.cairnslocalnews.com.au

Classifieds

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PUBLIC NOTICES

CAREERS

CHRISTMAS VOUCHERS GIVEAWAY T&C - Terms and Conditions -

EXPERIENCED VEHICLE SALES CONSULTANT

The Cairns Local News Christmas Vouchers Giveaway will commence on Friday November 10, 2023 and ends at 12 noon on Friday December 8, 2023. The competition is open to all shoppers who purchase products and services from participating outlets. Shoppers are asked to provide their name, phone number and email address on the entry forms provided. Only official entry forms provided by Cairns Local News will be accepted as entries. By entering the competition you are agreeing to allow Cairns Local News to publish your name and use any photos which will be taken upon notification of being a winner. The official draw will take place on Friday December 15, 2023 at the Douglas Christmas Street Party. The four winners will each receive 1 x prize pack of local vouchers (made up of $50 vouchers) which are to be spent with the participating businesses only. Vouchers are not redeemable for cash and are not transferable. All vouchers must be used by the date stated on the individual voucher. Any vouchers not redeemed by this time will expire and will not be honoured. Winners must be present to Claim their prize. Prizes will be drawn until all are claimed. Winners will be confirmed by phone and published in Cairns Local News on Friday December 22, 2023. Judge’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. Further details can be obtained by calling the Cairns Local News office on 4031 7678 during office hours.

Mareeba Toyota & Hansen Ford, a long standing multi-franchised motor dealer based in Mareeba Far North Queensland, have an immediate requirement for a motivated and professional new vehicle salesperson. With solid and relevant retail selling experience, you will possess a drive to excel within a highly focused team environment and enjoy the support of a family owned successful dealership. Reporting directly to the Dealer Principal, the successful applicant will be able to demonstrate an excellent track record in hands on selling and sales team participation, with an ability to close deals whilst building and developing a results oriented sales record within a business totally committed to our guests’ satisfaction. This is a great opportunity and chance to join a highly successful team, offering opportunities and a friendly work environment and will be rewarded with a generous industry competitive remuneration package.

CAR SALES CONSULTANT - TRAINEE

Mareeba Toyota & Hansen Ford is a multi franchised Dealership located in Mareeba, Far North Queensland. We are seeking a Trainee Sales Consultant to join our team. This is an extremely rewarding position full of responsibility, variety, challenges and incentives. It requires someone with energy, a professional manner, a passion for motor vehicles and immaculate appearance. What we are looking for: • Commitment and passion showing determination and self-drive • Excellent written and verbal communication • Exceptional customer service skills • An ambition to succeed and take the next step • Current Drivers Licence – Open C Class • Attention to detail • Ability to follow instructions • Immaculate personal presentation • Sales experience is preferred however full training will be provided for the successful applicant • Available to work on a Saturday If you have all of the above skills and are capable of working autonomously whilst working well within a team - please apply! What we Offer: • An excellent remuneration package • Bonus structure that rewards success • Full management and development support • Great team

AL-ANON FAMILY GROUPS 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?

Please forward your cover letter and resume to: Andrew Ford 07 4092 9606 Email: sales@mareebatoyota.com.au

Al-Anon can help you. Meetings held weekly at: • Cairns City: Tuesday nights, 6pm to 7pm • Edmonton: Thursdays, 12pm to 1pm • Kuranda: Mondays, 11am to 12 noon

INVACARE MOBILITY SCOOTER - LEO Bought July 2022 - Used, like new, couple of scuff marks. Has serial number & can be registered. Comfortable, solid, secure. $2,000 (paid $3500 new) Email: robyn.ellen@icloud.com

For further information, Call 1300 25 2666 or www.al-anon.org.au

C air n s

Local News

Classifieds Deadlines 4pm Wednesday

every week of publication

ow..? n k u o y Local News did C air n s

PERSONALS

FOR SALE

ADVERTISE today! Call Lisa on 07 4031 7678 or email admin@cairnslocalnews.com.au

Lady 76 years seeks healthconscious friend. Write to: PO Box 290, Earlville, 4870

Gent looking for somebody that would like company, aged between 55-75, would appreciate if you have a license. I like watching movies, going for dinner and coﬀee. Text 0447 791 140

you can book your Classifieds online: www.cairnslocalnews.com.au/classifieds

FNQ Markets

Friday December 1st

Saturday December 2nd

Cairns Night Markets: 54-60 Abbott St, 16:30-23:00 Kuranda Heritage Markets: Rob Veivers Dr, 10:00-15:00 Kuranda Rainforest Markets: 7 Therwine St, 09:30-15:00 Rusty’s Markets: Grafton St, Cairns, 05:00-18:00

Atherton: 1 Golf Links Drive, 6:00-12:00 Cairns Night Markets: 54-60 Abbott St, 16:30-23:00 Cairns Night Markets: 54-60 Abbott St, 16:30-23:00 Kuranda Heritage Markets: Rob Veivers Dr, 10:00-15:00 Gordonvale Cottage Markets: Norman Park, 07:00-12:00 Kuranda Rainforest Markets: 7 Therwine St, 09:30-15:00 Koah: Koah Hall, Koah Rd, 09:00-13:00 Mission Beach Markets: Opposite Hideaways, 07:00-12:00 Kuranda Heritage Markets: Rob Veivers Dr, 10:00-15:00 Palm Cove: Williams Esplanade, 08:00-14:00 Kuranda Rainforest Markets: 7 Therwine St, 09:30-15:00 Port Douglas: by St Mary’s Church, 07:30-14:00 Mossman: St David’s Church, 07:00-13:00 Rusty’s Markets: Grafton St, Cairns, 05:00-18:00 Redlynch Valley: Xavier Herbert Park, Redlynch Valley, 17:00-20:00 Tolga: Morrow Park Racecourse, 07:00-12.00 Rusty’s Markets: Grafton St, Cairns, 05:00-18:00 Mt Molloy: QCWA Hall, Fraser Rd, 07:00-12:00

www.cairnslocalnews.com.au

Sunday December 3rd

Cairns Local News, Friday, December 1, 2023 PAGE 31