Cairns Local News March 03 2023

Sixty years of enduring, tender and devoted friendship in the tropics

l CAIRNS

FOR sixty years two Cairns women have maintained an incredible friendship that has lasted through good times and bad.

Gail Simpson, of Yorkeys Knob, and Bibi Skerritt, of Redlynch, first met in 1963.

Over a cup of tea and some treats, they told Cairns Local News about the trust that had strengthened between them.

“Friendships are almost like a marriage,” Ms Skerritt, 87, said.

“It’s for better or worse, and you take them when they’re cranky and don’t want to talk. It takes a long time to grow an old friend,” she said. FULL

Gail Simpson (left) was a bridesmaid at Bibi Skerritt’s wedding in 1964.

New era for Cairns Local News

l CAIRNS

CAIRNS Local News is undergoing a major transformation that includes a new masthead, a paper and website re-design, new business premises, and a new editor.

Managing director Carl Portella said the community was buzzing with excitement about the changes that were taking place, including the new look of today’s edition, and what they could mean for the future of the publication.

“The new masthead is a modern, eye-catching design that represents the paper’s commitment to providing its readers with the latest news and information,” he said.

“The design of the new look weekly publication is bold, fresh and contemporary, and it reflects the paper’s determination to remain at the forefront of the industry.

“The new masthead will also be accompanied by a refresh of its website, making it easier for readers to access the latest news and features on the go.

“The new business premises are in the heart of the city in The Conservatory building, 12-14 Lake Street Cairns and are a testament to the paper’s continued growth and success.”

Mr Portella said the appointment of new editor Nick Dalton was a significant part of the make-over.

“The new editor brings with him a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective that is sure to bring a new energy to the paper.

“Nick has a passion for journalism and a commitment to delivering the highest quality content to readers.

"He is also eager to build on the paper’s growing reputation and continue to provide the community with the latest news and information in an engaging and accessible way.

“The make-over of Cairns Local News is an exciting step forward for

the publication and a reflection of its commitment to remaining at the forefront of the industry.

“The new masthead, business premises, and editor are all part of a larger plan to deliver even more value to readers and to ensure the paper remains an important source of news and information for years to come.”

Mr Dalton said he was “delighted to part of a new era for the weekly newspaper and online presentations”.

“I am looking forward to using my decades of journalistic experience, knowledge and understanding of the Cairns region to build on the success of Cairns Local News,” he said.

“The essence of the publication is local news, not Townsville or Brisbane stories.

"There are so many great stories about Cairns people, business and clubs we will share with our valued readers and advertisers.

“I thank Carl and his team for giving me the opportunity to return to a newspaper, where my grassroots are, and its associated digital reach across greater Cairns.”

Paper manager Kathrine MacLean said the staff were “very excited about the new look of the paper and having Nick come on board as new editor to grow the team”.

“He brings a huge amount of experience and local knowledge and will bring extra depth and focus to our stories and allow us to be more proactive across the region,” she said.

“Having started out during COVID, it is especially pleasing to see the paper going from strength to strength and this new branding will help us to stand out and be more recognised as the independent local paper we are.”

The other members of the team are journalist Isabella Guzman Gonzalez, sales executive Almando Anton and administration manager Lisa Harris.

The Cairns Local News team (from the back) Nick Dalton, Isabella Guzman Gonzalez, Carl Portella, Kath MacLean, Almando Anton and Lisa Harris. Picture: Romy Photography

Enterprises is offering up to six months free rent for tenants who sign up for vacancies

Incentives on offer to get tenants into retail centre

l SMITHFIELD

| NICK DALTON

A LANDLORD is offering up to six months free rent to entice tenants to a relatively new shopping centre at Smithfield.

There are three tenancies on offer at Smithfield Shopping Village on the corner of Smithfield Village Drive and O’Brien Road at Trinity Park.

Sam Dyer of Magenta Enterprises said up to six months free rent and/or fit out incentives were available depending on lease terms.

“We are a motivated landlord and wish to keep our properties in pristine condition and occupied by successful businesses,” he said.

“We understand the pressures of operating a business in the current economic situation and we are offering this incen-

Fair gets massive funding bonanza

l CAIRNS CBD

AN extra $400,000 a year in funding for the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF) will help the event grow, reach global recognition and deliver economic and cultural benefits for Queensland ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The money, announced by Queensland Arts Minister Leeanne Enoch in Cairns this week, adds to the current $600,000 per year core investment through the Backing Indigenous Arts initiative.

Additionally, in 2023, CIAF will also receive project funding to support two new projects and two industry placements.

CIAF will develop the Coconut Leaf Project, a cross-cultural community project celebrating Torres Strait Islander craft and weaving with funding of $70,000 through the First Nations Commissioning Fund.

CIAF will also present Urban BLAKtivation, a family friendly, accessible arts and cultural event activating the Cairns CBD with Indigenous performance, art installation, story tellers and poets, with funding of $70,000 through the Queensland Arts Showcase Program.

tive to assist with the pressures of starting or expanding a business.

“Fit-out costs have considerably increased since COVID and therefore we are doing everything we can to assist our tenants.

“We have had a lot of interest in the centre, however we are looking for tenants which we feel will work well within the current tenancy mix.

“We like to always do the right thing by our tenants and we believe this starts with first impressions; by providing these incentives we are wanting to build professional and positive relationship with our tenants.”

The tenancies are shop 1-2 (124sqm), shop 3-5 (174sqm, can be divided into two of 92sqm and 82sqm) and shop 7 (163sq m). “For the right tenant and lease terms, we are offering three months free rent for a three-year lease and six months free rent for a five- year

lease,” Mr Dyer said.

“The vacant tenancies would suit anyone looking for an office, retail space or medical premises,” he said.

The centre includes a medical centre, a physiotherapist, a psychologist, a real estate agent, a hair salon, an engineer, a marketing business, four eateries and a coin-operated laundramat.

“The centre is extremely well located for customer access, convenience and parking,” Mr Dyer said.

“This modern centre has excellent exposure and full glass frontage providing 48 on-site customer car parks and is situated in the northern beaches residential growth corridor and opposite childminding centre.”

Mr Dyer said since buying the centre, Magenta Enterprises “have spent a considerable amount of time and money to bring the centre to our standard”.

“We pride ourselves on owning a

23rd-26th March

well-presented centre which is maintained to the highest standards,” he said.

“Smithfield Shopping Village is fast becoming the new shopping hub in Smithfield and has a fantastic tenancy mix.

“The centre is extremely well located for customer access, convenience and parking. It was opened in late 2016 and is situated in the northern beaches’ residential growth corridor.”

The centre was developed by Richardson Plant Hire (developer John Richardson) in 2016 and Magenta, which is a family-owned self-managed superannuation fund, bought the property in April 2019. Magenta also owns industrial properties at Bungalow.

Mr Dyer said fit-out incentives could be discussed on a case by case basis by contacting Rob Macfarlane at Knight Frank Cairns on 4046 5330.

Ms Enoch said CIAF had achieved great success since its establishment in 2009, and it was now time for the organisation to set its sights on the future.

Cairns MP Michael Healy said the investment would support CIAF to achieve its vision to grow the sale and distribution of First Nations art from Queensland and expand its profile across the state and nation.

CIAF artistic director Francoise Lane said “it is the natural business progression for CIAF to turn our attention toward philanthropic partnerships development to complement existing government and corporate partnership engagement as CIAF firmly positions itself as Australia’s premier Indigenous arts fair.”

Sam Dyer of Magenta

at the Smithfield Shopping Village.

Picture: Nick Dalton

Builder’s

$250,000 donation

l REDLYNCH

ACCLAIMED development industry leader John Richardson has dug deep to support cancer patients in the Far North.

The Kenfrost Homes owner has donated $250,000 towards the Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation’s Cancer Care Hub, bringing the total raised so far to $610,000 – almost 40 percent of the total needed.

Tokyo flights to take-off

l CAIRNS

| NICK

DALTON

VIRGIN Australia flights between Cairns and Tokyo-Haneda Airport have been launched in Japan.

Queensland Tourism Minister Stirling Hinchliffe, Tourism Australia and Tourism Tropical North Queensland joined Virgin Australia at Tokyo-Haneda Airport for the launch earlier this week.

The year-round, daily services from Tokyo-Haneda take off from June 28 and are predicted to land more than 30,000 visitors from Japan in Cairns during the first year of operation.

Tickets from about $1216.58 return are on sale. It’s estimated Virgin Australia’s direct flights to Cairns will generate $69.5 million for Tropical North Queensland’s visitor economy and support 680 good Queensland jobs.

The flights have been secured by the Palaszczuk government’s $200m Attracting Aviation Investment Fund (AAIF) in partnership with Cairns International Airport.

Member for Cairns Michael Healy said “this is fantastic news for Cairns and Tropical North Queensland tourism operators as we continue to rebuild our international visitor economy”.

“Virgin Australia’s direct services to Cairns from Tokyo-Haneda make it even

easier for Japanese visitors to enjoy our unique, world-class tourism experiences and great hospitality,” he said.

Tourism Minister Stirling Hinchliffe said the launch was “another example of the Palaszczuk government’s $200 million aviation war chest fast-tracking direct international flights to Queensland destinations and driving tourism recovery.”

Virgin Australia chief executive Jayne Hrdlicka said the airline was proud to be the first airline to offer direct services between Haneda, Tokyo and Cairns from June 28.

“The daily, year-round services will bring much needed competition to the market while showcasing Virgin Aus-

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tralia’s award-winning service and great value airfares,” she said.

Tourism Tropical North Queensland chief executive Mark Olsen said TTNQ was working closely with the industry and stakeholders towards the launch of the new service and will be supporting it with media and influencer educationals, seminars, a trade mission and promotional activities with our partners.

Cairns Airport chief executive Richard Barker said data showed that large numbers of Japanese tourists visited Cairns when a full-service carrier, like Virgin Australia, offers direct flights to TokyoHaneda.

He said the airport had been without these services for 10 years.

Kenfrost Homes marketing coordinator Alex Loughton said Mr Richardson was inspired by Joyce Swinton’s $250,000 gift last week.

“Cairns needs it for sure. A lot of people find themselves in unfortunate circumstances through no fault of their own. It’s the sort of thing Cairns needs, so we’re on board,” Mr Richardson said. Foundation chief executive Gina Hogan said the donation was a welcome surprise.

“This comes on the back of the $60,000 that Kenfrost Homes gave us last year for patient Christmas presents and pyjamas and equipment,” Mrs Hogan said.

“It’s a beautiful gift and the momentum we’re gaining is really blowing us away. We knew the community would get behind us,” she said.

CONNECTING FAMILIES LUNCHEON

SATURDAY 11th MARCH 2023 | 11:00AM - 1:00PM

Location: COUCH Wellness Centre

Details: We would love to welcome you and your families to join us for a free lunch and some fun activities! This event is to connect our local families that are impacted by cancer You will have the opportunity to share your stories, chat with like-minded families, and build social connections You are not alone, and we are here to help All families and referrers are welcome to join this space!

Register before March 8th for catering purposes

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At the launch were Tourism Tropical North Queensland CEO Mark Olsen, Tourism Australia country manager Derek Baines, Queensland Tourism Minister Stirling Hinchliffe, Virgin Australia Group’s Nick Rohrlach and Cairns Airport CEO Richard Barker.

Decades of friendship

l CAIRNS

I ISABELLA GUZMAN GONZALEZ

A PASSION for fashion and sorority brought Gail Simpson and Bibi Skerritt together in 1963.

Sixty years later, they are celebrating their longstanding friendship.

“Friendships are almost like a marriage,” Ms Skerritt, 87, said.

“It’s for better or worse, and you take them when they’re cranky and don’t want to talk.

“It takes a long time to grow an old friend.”

They go through photos and laugh at the old-time stories over tea and pastries.

“If I could, I would do it all over again,” Ms Simpson, 75, said.

Ms Simpson and Ms Skerrit met in 1963 when Skerrit’s mother, Ruby Durant, hired 15-year-old Simpson to work at their clothing store, Checkers, on Abbott St.

“I worked selling groceries, and Bibi’s mum used to come into the shop where I worked, she said, ‘you should work in our shop’,” Ms Simpson said.

“I said, ‘no, I’m OK here’, so she sent Bibi, and she said to me, ‘I think you’ll do better selling rags than selling tins’.

“On February 24, 60 years ago, I went to work for them.”

In Checkers, Mrs Durant was in charge of alterations, Ms Skerritt of selling and Ms Simpson was the trainee.

“I said to my mum, ‘don’t worry about training her; she could sell ice

to an Eskimo,” said Ms Skerritt, who lives at Redlynch. “She just had the personality for it.”

Their chemistry was unparalleled since the first interaction, and they both confidently affirmed they knew they would be best friends from the moment they met.

“I think from day one we were best friends,” said Ms Simpson, who lives at Yorkeys Knob.. “I even lived with Bibi and her mum for six months.”

“We didn’t have to say it, but we knew it,” Ms Skerritt said.

In 1964, after one year of knowing each other, Ms Skerritt asked Ms Simpson to be her bridesmaid.

“She was my number one bridesmaid,” she said. “I went to work that

morning and had to get married at 3pm.

“Gail came to work with me while everyone else was getting dressed for my wedding, it’s terrible, but we didn’t care.

“And then she was there for my baby boy; she nursed him; he’s 55 now,” Ms Skerritt said.

Checkers closed its doors in 1990. Both women parted ways, but destiny kept bringing them together unexpectedly.

“Gail’s uncle was my accountant,” Ms Skerritt said.

“At 23, I ended up marrying Bibi’s family’s landlord, Don Simpson,” Ms Simpson said.

“We both loved fashion, so we went to many fashion parades together, and

LocalBriefs

l FERRY SHUTDOWN

we were part of the launch of the first Fun in the Sun (Cairns Festival).

“Bibi had one son, I had one son; it’s like we planned it,” she said.

Ms Skerritt said the secret to preserving their friendship through the years was turning to Ms Simpson during the good and bad times.

“When you want to keep something precious, you’ve got to find a busy friend that you can always ask, and they will always find time to help you,” she said.

“When my husband died, I needed someone to pick up my son from the airport, and I needed someone who knew what to do.

“Gail picked up my son from the airport, and they went to a delicatessen shop and bought snacks to bring home so we could hold a little open house service.

“I think things like this is how our relationship kept growing.”

On Friday, February 24, the women officially celebrated their 60th friendship anniversary, and between anecdotes and tea, they vowed to stay friends until the end.

“I know how much this means to Gail, so I agreed to have a cuppa,” Ms Skerritt said.

“It takes a long time to grow an old friend; this is a rare thing.

“We’ve had our moments where we haven’t agreed, but we’ve never fought. I look back, and I can’t believe it’s been 60 years today,” Ms Simpson said.

“I feel very lucky that things have been this way, and I would do it all over again.”

THE Daintree River vehicle ferry will be closed for five days from Monday, March 6 so the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) can conduct an out-of-water safety inspection and for vital maintenance tasks to be completed. It is expected to start operating again on Saturday, March 11.

A 50-person passenger vessel will take people across the river during the closure, all day from sunrise to sunset.

l FREE ANT WORKSHOP

A FREE invasive ant identification workshop is being held at the Kuranda Recreation Centre on Saturday (March 4) from 10am-1pm. The workshop by the Yellow Crazy Ant Community Taskforce will help people identify yellow crazy or electrIc ants.

l FUNDING EXTENDED

DISASTER assistance has been extended to seven more flooded local councils following extreme monsoonal rainfall and flooding across northern and central Queensland. Support is now available for the Local Government Areas of Aurukun, Cassowary Coast, Douglas, and Tablelands through the jointly funded Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

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Bibi Skerritt and Gail Simpson are very close. Picture: Isaballa Guzman Gonzalez

trials of hearing devices are being offered in the Far North this week as part of Hearing Awareness Week.

AUDiOHEALTH is offering the free tests and trials of hearing devices in Cairns, Smithfield and Atheron.

AUDiOHEALTH director Joanne Magee said Hearing Awareness Week was an annual event in Australia organised to raise awareness of hearing impairment and is held from March 1 to 7.

“It aims to highlight the issues affecting Australians living with hearing loss,” she said.

“The initiative is a vital part of

the ongoing effort by the Federal Government of Australia to improve the issues that people with hearing loss face.

“It aims to improve the social inclusion of the one in six Australians who are deaf, have a hearing impairment, or have chronic ear disorder.

“According to a recently released report by the Hearing Care Industry Association, these 3.5 million Australians represent 22 per cent of the population aged 15 and over.

“The core mission of the week is to help all Australians with hearing loss achieve a better quality of life by sharing their experiences and knowledge and

inspiring people to understand their needs and aspirations better.

“Hearing Awareness Week is also about encouraging the general public, especially employers, to offer more support, make society more inclusive, and the workplace more conducive for Australians with hearing loss.

“The government aims to spread awareness about the positive impact of looking after our hearing health, which contributes to our quality of life, social engagement, career, confidence, and communication.

Call AUDiOHEALTH on 4041 7860 to make an appointment for a free test or trial.

Picture: LSIS Shane Cameron

New push to buy beach headland

l TRINITY BEACH | ISABELLA GUZMAN GONZALEZ

THE fight to save an 18ha headland on the northern beaches has ramped up with another petition calling once again for the Queensland Government to buy the property.

The Taylor Point Action Group presented Member for Barron River Craig Crawford with the petition this week to get the government to reconsider buying Taylor Point.

The petition with 1945 signatures was handed to Mr Crawford on February 24 in the latest effort to persuade Environment Minister Meaghan Scanlon to buyw the headland owned by Rob Prettejohn.

Mr Crawford has been advocating for a state government buyback of Taylor Point and supporting the endeavours of the Taylor Action Group to no avail.

Regarding the new petition, Mr Crawford said he would continue to search for solutions.

“There are still options available which may include the council ensuring a section remains available for public use,” he said.

The government and Cairns Regional Council announced last year that they would not be buying the property.

In late 2022, Mr Prettejohn lodged a development application for six lots along the Marana St boundary. He has since received a request from the council for more details on

the project but Taylor Action Group spokesman Denis Wallis said it made sense for the land to be bought back for community use.

“The developer has a right to develop about 18 dwellings on that property; roughly speaking, one dwelling per hectare,” he said.

“It’s a very hilly property, so it would be impossible to put many houses on it; for that reason, it would make more sense to have it like Earl Hill, the conservation park that was bought by state government a few years back.

“I think we need to see a similar buyback by the state government.”

“The community knows that Taylor Point is in a bad state; they know it’s not appropriate for a large-scale development and they know that it’s got many benefits.”

Mr Wallis said Taylor Point had significant value for Trinity Beach residents.

“We want the state government to buy back the land for public access; the main purpose is as a community asset,” he said.

“Taylor Point is the last unattributed headland in the northern beaches, and it’s very prominent culturally for Indigenous people and worth protecting for its cultural, ecological and social value.

“The ecological value we charted through a study which we carried out a couple of years ago, tracking the number of birds and plants, mammals and reptiles and where they could be found in the headland.

“That information is with the

state government, so they know the ecological values of the area and tremendous community assets,” he said.

Mr Wallis said the latest petition was proof of Trinity Beach residents’ longstanding desire to save Taylor Point.

“Nearly 2000 signatures were submitted to Mr Crawford, and it’s a reminder that the community is on board with a buyback,” Mr Wallis said.

“At the moment the state government is saying they don’t have the money for that purchase.

“Every year, a significant amount is allocated for community benefit by the state government, so every year, we’ll keep pushing for some of that money to go into this buyback.

“The buyback of Taylor Point would probably be around $7 million; it’s not a huge amount of money.”

Mr Wallis said the group would continue to fight for Taylor Point for as long as possible.

“Mr Prettejohn is not getting any younger, and I think he would like to see a resolution in the not-so-distant future because I think this is pushing him, the local community and the environment.

“We can’t say when this resolution will be at this stage, but you keep pushing and pushing, and eventually, it might be the nudge that makes all the difference.”

Mr Prettejohn was contacted for comment.

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Barron River MP Craig Crawford receives the petition from Taylor Point Action Group members Annabel Brittain and Eugenie Naverre. Picture: Supplied

Devoted couple faces of foster caring quest

l CAIRNS

| NICK DALTON

A CAIRNS couple is one of the faces of a Queensland foster caring recruitment campaign.

The “We need more foster carers, like you” campaign features Lisa and Clayton (surname withheld), alongside other carers in a series of television and social media advertisements and videos.

The Palaszczuk government is looking for more foster carers, with a state-wide recruitment campaign currently underway.

Lisa and Clayton, who are parents to three biological children, have been carers for more than six years and have fostered four children:

and we need to help them,” Lisa said. “I’ve met people from all different walks of life who work shift work and full-time jobs.

“That’s no barrier to caring. The agency [foster care agency] will work with you to arrange placements that meet your needs and work well for your family.

“The children just want someone to be there and love them.

“They want that routine. They want to know where the next meal’s coming from, that it’s all in a nice predictable fashion. And if you can provide that, you can provide foster care.”

“It is joy,” describes Clayton.

“You’re just trying to provide for someone else. Now fostering is just a part of who I am.”

Queensland has more than 6000 foster and kinship carer families who come from all walks of life. This includes married couples with children of their own, single parent carers, members of the LGBTIQA+ community and First Nations carers.

Cairns MP Michael Healy said “foster and kinship carers are nothing short of inspiring”.

“Unfortunately, there are some children and young people in our community who are unable to live with their parents and who need a safe and caring home. That’s where foster and kinship carers step in,” he said.

“It is stories like Cairns’ own Lisa and Clayton’s, and thousands more throughout the state, which can best explain why being a foster carer is a privilege.”

“There are some children … who have had a really rough start or have had something really serious happen in their life

The state-wide television and digital campaign showcase stories of real foster carers sharing their unique stories to encourage more Queenslanders to take on the role.

To become a foster carer visit www.qld.gov.au/fostercare or call Queensland Foster and Kinship Care on 1300 550 877. Lisa and Clayton, of Cairns, (surname withheld) are proud to be foster carers. Picture: Supplied

In-house workers to replace contractors at regional council

l CASSOWARY COAST

CASSOWARY Coast Regional Council has restructured the organisation so more work will be done by staff and managers instead of paying outside consultants and contractors.

Chief executive Andrew Graffen said “the organisational redesign is very much focused on delivering for our community, and the final outcome is a direct response to the Community Scorecard 2022 outcomes”.

“The restructure will set the business of council up for success with a real

focus on ‘growing our own’ through increased internal delivery of services rather than engaging consultancies as just one example of structural improvements,” he said.

“For example, we currently have an over-reliance on external contractors and consultancies within delivery

teams. Through this restructure, we aim to attract the right expertise which will ultimately have cost savings and a reduction in the level of risk that an overreliance on consultancies brings with it.

Mr Graffen said a stand-alone business unit would be set up for delivery of commercial services including water

and wastewater, waste and resource recovery.”

Mayor Mark Nolan said the commercial services unit would operate in accordance with legislative requirements and would be underpinned by a valuefor-money user-pays model to reduce the financial impost on ratepayers.

Supporting letter about real Aussies

WELL said, Suzy M on your letter of February 24.

I couldn’t agree more with you. Different flags, divisiveness at its best.

Yes, troops (including Indigenous) fought for Australia, for all Australians.

Regarding teachings in school. Yes, just go back to teaching the basics to help for later on.

How does gender identifying or pushing even more of Indigenous culture help find a job later on?

There is and has always been Indigenous culture taught in school for as long as I can remember but it’s only one piece of the jigsaw, not the whole jigsaw.

Basics, respect and discipline should still be part of education. But it’s not because too many do-gooders and poor government policies have allowed society to become what it has.

This has been to the detriment of law-abiding, hardworking, tax paying citizens.

So far gone in the wrong direction and we all must put up with it, youth crime, abused by drunken itinerants.

Yep, sure are the lucky country. KS,

Mareeba

I recognise the flag I served under

REGARDING Suzy M’s letter in last week’s edition.

What a great letter you presented, and I fully agree with everything you wrote.

One gets sick of hearing about First Nations, and LGBTIQA+ every single day. Are there no other races in good old Oz?

And as for the flags, I recognise only one flag, and that is the flag I served under in the armed forces of Australia, and in Vietnam.

The bullshit that is taught in our schools today is utter rubbish.

Kids cannot tell the time if it is not on a digital watch.

We, the residents of this great country, are all Australians, and should not have to kowtow to any other flag than the real Australian one.

Rob, Mt Peter

I am, you are, we are Australian

I WOULD like to commend Suzy M, Cairns on her letter regarding “Are we Australians or what”?

I believe, we who live in Australia, are Australians.

It doesn’t matter if you were born here, or you came from another land. If you live here, you are an Australian.

We all come into the world the same way.

We all breathe the same air. We all have red blood. We all have different coloured skin – but that doesn’t or shouldn’t define us.

We all have a duty to care to love our country and be proud to be an Australian.

For goodness sake, we live in the best country in the world.

We should be forever grateful.

Catherine, Woree

Concerns about Coen checkpoint

FNQ Growers are calling on the Queensland Government to clarify the future of the Coen biosecurity checkpoint on Cape York Peninsula.

The organisation, which advocates for the highly productive horticultural commodities from Lakeland in the north, south to Tully and west to Georgetown, is responding to media reports earlier this year which raised concerns about the checkpoint’s future.

The Coen checkpoint is incredibly important to protecting Far North Queensland’s half a bil-

Vocal Local join our online debate

President Lincoln stated that “you can fool some of the time, but you can’t fool all of people all of the time”. Trouble is he didn’t know that there were people yet unborn like Hitler and Putin. Present situation is so like the start of WWII, it’s not funny.

Ross, Cairns

It’s fantastic to see that the international terminal at Cairns Airport is to be upgraded to the tune of $50 million. It’s long overdue. But the airport needs to work with border control, customs and quarantine to improve the experience for travellers by providing more staff and extra processing facilities. I returned from Bali recently at

lion-dollar horticulture industry. Our region is considered one of the fourth most significant fruit bowls in Queensland, and an agricultural powerhouse in northern Australia, with its value critical well beyond the farmgate. With no official comment forthcoming from the Queensland Government, FNQ Growers has sought urgent comment on the media reports and assurances that the livelihoods of horticulture.

Joe Moro, FNQ Growers president, Mareeba

Watch SBS TV heart documentary

THE Heart Foundation hopes a new documentary exploring the devastating impact of Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD) on Australia’s First Nations people will rally

more public support to end its spread and protect future generations.

The foundation’s First Nations Heart Health team is urging Australians to learn more about RHD by watching the recently aired national television premier of documentary Take Heart Deadly Heart via SBS On Demand.

Professor Sandra Eades and Vicki Wade, The Heart Foundation

Growers protecting Great Barrier Reef

HORTICULTURAL growers in Great Barrier Reef catchments are set to benefit from a renewed collaboration between Growcom and the Queensland Department of Environment and Science.

Growcom will receive $3.3 million over four years to deliver

the same time as a flight came in from Japan. Overall it took 90 minutes to get through passport control (only three kiosks were operating), customs and quarantine. All Bali passengers were questioned by a quarantine officer because of the foot and mouth disease outbreak in Indonesia.

John, Manoora

Cairns Regional Council and/ or Transport and Main Roads need to better co-ordinate the traffic lights in Cairns. None of the roads flow freely. It’s stopstart constantly and at some intersections only three or four vehicles get through before amber comes on.

Joe, Bungalow

the second phase of the successful Hort360 Great Barrier Reef program which will focus on boosting the productivity and profitability of horticultural growers.

A key component of phase one of the project was the voluntary uptake of Hort360 Reef Certification enabling industry to demonstrate best practice. The successful uptake of Reef Certification resulted in horticulture Reef regulations being deferred through to December 2024.

With further grower support and adoption of Hort360 Reef Certification Growcom is seeking to clearly demonstrate that Reef regulations need not be applied to horticulture. Phase two of the project will focus on assisting growers.

Scott Wallace, Hort360 manager

Evans St, Yorkeys Knob:

with

Spence St at McLeod St intersection, Cairns City: traffic light works commencing 6 March. Expect temporary lane closures. Grafton St at Florence St intersection, Cairns City: traffic light works commencing 6 March 2023. Expect temporary lane closures.

Arthur St at McLeod St intersection, Cairns City: culvert renewal works. Expect temporary lane closures and traffic control.

Gazza’s Gossip

Port and pickle… it’s a ball

made its way to Port Douglas and appears to be extremely popular.

PICKLEBALL is becoming all the rage around Australia and is one of the fastest growing sports currently in the World.

Assuming Pickleball probably wasn’t a new vegetarian entrée option that I’d yet to try, my initial question was quite simply… what is it?

To give you an exact definition, pickleball is a paddle sport that originated in Washington State in the USA, back in 1965.

The game is played on a badminton-sized court with a ball similar to a wiffle ball. For those wondering what a wiffle ball is, it’s basically a hollow ball with holes in it, similar to airflow balls used for golf practice.

A tennis-like net is used to separate the court with a 2.13 metre zone either side of the net known as the ‘kitchen’. This is also known as the non-volley zone where players are not permitted to volley while standing in it.

The kitchen rule exists to prevent a player from standing at the net and smashing every hit. The game can be played, like tennis, as singles or doubles.

I could give more in depth information on the scoring system, but suffice to say, pickleball is a cross between tennis, badminton, and table tennis or ping-pong, if you wish.

The great news is that this popular sport has recently

It’s all been made possible by the nearby Port Douglas Neighbourhood Centre partnering with the local U3A group, plus additional support, for the equipment, being provided Douglas Shire Council.

Being an activity that allows you to play to your own personal skill level and fitness, Pickleball is ideal for all age groups, particularly those in their more senior years, being a relatively low impact sport. That said, the current group that meets every Friday afternoon at the Community Hall in Mowbray Street, Port Douglas, are aged between 30 and 70.

I’m sure the ‘Golden Oldies’ have the experience and a few tricks up their sleeves to compete with the youngsters.

As with many activities like this, apart from the sport itself, this is a great social event and a fantastic opportunity to meet like minded people for some physical exercise. Requiring a certain level of hand eye coordination, the sport is also an opportunity to improve your balance and reflexes.

The main message from those involved each Friday is to come along and have a go at both the table tennis and pickleball and maybe even bring a friend. This also applies to any visitors to the area as well.

I’m shortly due on court, hopefully avoiding the kitchen, so for now it’s Gazza signing out! Send your stories to gazza@cairnslocalnews.com.au

l PORT DOUGLAS

Wining and Dining

Fresh sushi is back on menu at Orchid Plaza

l CAIRNS

FORMER Sushi Express Cairns is now trading as Orient Express Sushi Train at Orchid Plaza.

Bigger and better than ever, with new menus, a new atmosphere, and fully licensed for those looking for a drink or two, Orient Express Sushi Train is taking over Orchid Plaza.

Owners Dean Ward and Wanwisa Chaiwangban moved from Sydney in 2020 and saw the opportunity to give new life to the former Sushi Express at Orchid Plaza.

“We always wanted to come to Cairns and saw the former sushi site and thought ‘let’s have a go; there is great potential in this location’,” Mr Ward said.

“Orient Express Sushi Train’s philosophy is about freshly made, locally sourced food. The goal is to look after the locals going above and beyond to ensure our customers have a memorable dining experience.

“We are a family business; we are not a franchise. Everything we do, we do ourselves. This gives Orient Express Sushi Train the advantage of customising orders depending on dietary requirements or taste preferences.

“We now have a world-class product to offer people and have received a 5 out of 5 rating on Trip Advisor and recommended by Restaurant Guru,” he said.

Fresh colours and a new fit-out welcome diners into a warm space especially tailored for local customers.

“We wanted to position ourselves as a place where locals feel like they’re family; we understand that every customer is an individual and treat them that way,” Mr Ward said.

“We also source all our produce locally and seek to support other local businesses in the area.

“The seafood is brought in almost daily and filleted traditionally. We endeavour to keep a very high standard of freshness.”

With a menu designed to stand out from a crowded sushi market, Mr Ward took a page from his old rep days.

“You have to be prepared to try something new,” he said.

Mr Ward said clients who wanted something outside their large variety on the train and menu could ask for a customised order, and the chefs would cater for them if possible.

Orient Express is open Wednesday to Monday, 11am-2pm and 5.30pm-8pm, closing on Tuesday.

Owners Dean Ward and Wanwisa Chaiwangban.

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Real Estate

*** AUCTION ***

240 Menzies Road, Bartle Frere QLD 4861 Sugarcane Farm on 7 Titles – Boundary to the Russell River ‘Located approximately 4km from Josephine Falls’

Total Land Area: 31.94 Ha = 78.92 acres*

Usable Land Area: 30.28 Ha = 74.82 acres*

Sale is on a W.I.W.O. basis which includes the 2023 sugarcane crop, already fertilised. Sales includes: Two combined lockable sheds – Total floor area 471.96 sqm*

Auction: Saturday 11th March 2023 – 11am Onsite.

Inspections available by appointment. All offers will be presented to the Owners, an offer may be accepted prior to Auction. *all areas approximate List #1597 https://aarealty.net/rural/1597/

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS FOR A LIMITED TIME

Our practice offers a welcoming non-judgemental, friendly environment where we can focus on improving your health and that of your family. We see you as a whole person and aim to optimise your health rather than just treat your illness or injury.

Conveniently located just south of the airport turn-off and directly behind Mother of Good Counsel School, we are well positioned for easy access from all areas of Cairns.

We are delighted to welcome Dr Seth Parker and Dr William Ho to our

team. These lovely, experienced GPs join Dr Clarissa Tjoakarfa in accepting new patients.

At Thrive Medical, we promote a holistic approach to health care. We are passionate about preventative health, meaning that we may recommend certain health checks.

We are also likely to discuss health issues that may occur commonly in your age group, and the ways that we may prevent, test or treat these conditions.

Although I was born overseas and moved to Australia when I was 7 years old, I consider myself a Queenslander. I grew up in Toowoomba and went to school and university there.

In 2019, with my wife and two young children, I moved up to Bamaga where we fell in love with the tropics and, at the start of 2022, we decided to move to Cairns. We are loving life here and have made it our new home.

I am always happy to see anyone who walks in my door, but I have a special interest in paediatric (children’s) medicine, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander healthcare, sports medicine and men’s health. Outside of work I love hanging out with my kids, cooking, reading books, travelling (locally and overseas) and playing soccer.

My attraction to Far North Queensland first formed when I moved north to complete my internship at Cairns (Base) Hospital after graduating from the University of Queensland. I love my work as a GP. I particularly appreciate that as GPs, we are able to provide care and walk alongside patients in all stages of their lives. Being invited into the lives of my patients has always felt like an immense privilege and one which I place significant value upon.

I hold a special interest in men’s health, teen & adolescent health, sports medicine and Veterans health and the improvement of the health and wellbeing of First Nations peoples. In my spare time, you will find me trying to impress/embarrass my 2 kids while simultaneously avoiding being mocked by Sarah (my wife). I am also a keen mountain biker and cyclist enjoy home cooking and generally live for a good laugh.

HOURS: Monday to Friday 8.00am - 5.00pm. Closed Saturday & Sunday. Book your appointment online at: www.thrivemedical.com.au

DR SETH PARKER MMBS, FRACGP

DR WILLIAM HO BSc, MBBS, FRACGP, CCFP

Savings to flow into Mossman and surrounds

A CHANCE to save hundreds of dollars on your annual water bill will be turned on for people living in Mossman and surrounds this month.

Douglas Shire Council will start installing new smart water meters at most properties with reticulated water supply as part of a $1.1 million investment in water security.

Stage two of the smart water meter rollout, which starts on Monday, March 6, 2023, follows the initial phase which saw about 900 properties in Port Douglas fitted with the new digital device.

This stage has already seen 92ML saved in the past nine months, which is more water than 36 Mossman lap pools could hold.

Put another way, this equates to financial savings of about $150,000, or $166 per property where a new smart water meter was

installed.

Douglas Shire Mayor Michael Kerr said the smart water meter program expansion could see savings flow into thousands of households.

“Many Port Douglas residents have already shaved hundreds of dollars off their annual water bill thanks to their new smart meter,” he said.

“The smart water meter program allows Council and property owners to detect leaks quicker than ever before and reduce the amount of water being wasted.

“Under stage two, we will see about 3500 smart water meters installed at eligible properties and if the current rate of savings continues, we could see more than 300ML of water saved from leaking into the ground this year.”

“Finding and fixing leaks in our network remains a focus while Council invests in projects which increase

our water supply.”

The first smart water meters will be installed at remaining properties in Port Douglas and Craiglie, before contractors make their way to Mossman and surrounds.

Property owners will receive a letter notifying them of the upcoming installation and information about MiWater Customer Portal.

Sign up to MiWater Customer Portal to save dollars:

The MiWater Customer Portal is now available for properties in Douglas Shire with a smart water meter. You can track your water usage online and identify leaks quickly, saving you money on your next water bill.

You can access the customer portal on your computer or smart phone anywhere, anytime. To register for FREE, go to miwater.douglas.qld.gov.au

YOU AM I to headline Port Douglas Carnivale

ICONIC Aussie rockers You Am I, fronted by lead singer-songwriter and guitarist Tim Rogers, will headline Port Douglas Carnivale’s Tropic Rock concert in 2023. Having released their 11th studio album in 2021, The Lives of Others, the group is in good form and ready to deliver a live show that has earned them a special place as Australian rock royalty.

Their signature rock sound has scored 10 ARIA awards and 31 nominations during the band’s long music career and gathered fans across the globe.

Douglas Shire Mayor Michael Kerr said You Am I promised to deliver a concert experience like no other with Rex Smeal Park once again the backdrop for the Tropic Rock event.

“This will be the first time the band has performed in Port Douglas, and five years since touring FNQ and no doubt, will be something special,” he said.

Also returning to the Port Douglas Carnivale line-up is the signature event The Longest Lunch, FNQ Gin Fest, Seafood Extravaganza and Family Beach Day, while the Wonderland Spiegeltent will once again bring its decadent blend of sensational acrobatics, operatic cabaret, and tongue in cheek burlesque to Market Park. The crowd-favourite Street Parade will show the world what the region is all about with its ‘Living the Best Life’ theme inspiring people to share how they live their best lives.

The vibrant mix of food, fun and festival begins on Friday, May 12, building to the main Carnivale weekend on May 19-21.

Mayor Kerr said the town was ready to welcome new and returning visitors to the much-loved event, which is now in its 29th year.

“We are encouraging our creative local individuals, schools, groups, businesses and organisations to show how they live life to the fullest here in Port Douglas and Daintree,” he said.

“It’s the simple things that make our lives so meaningful, from family traditions and friendships, to surrounding ourselves in the beautiful nature and wildlife we have here.

“Sustainability, caring for our environment, and our excellence in agriculture and tourism are all things we should also be recognising and celebrating.”

Mayor Kerr said the Carnivale program offers a mix of adult and family events to suit all tastes and budgets.

“Douglas Shire Council is excited to present our much-loved Carnivale – it is a great festival and with local arts, culture and music as well as significant national acts in the program, we hope our visitors and the Douglas community get involved and enjoy themselves.”

For more information, and to book tickets for the Tropic Rock concert, visit the website www.carnivale.com.au.

Council’s Team Leader of Water Reticulation, Mitch Simpson, inspects a Smart Water Meter in Port Douglas

*Tickets will be released for the Wonderland Spiegeltent and The Longest Lunch in the coming weeks.

You Am I will headline the Tropic Rock Concert at 2023 Port Douglas Carnivale

Community talks about Port

Douglas Aquatic Precinct

HUNDREDS of people had their say during the community engagement period for the Port Douglas Aquatic Precinct.

Douglas Shire Council secured funding to build a splash park and is working towards delivering the project in 2024. There are two locations being considered – Jalunbu

Park behind the Port Douglas Surf Life Saving Club and Reynolds Park, on Davidson Street.

Council hosted a ‘Come & Play’ day and ‘Family Movie Night’ at the Port Douglas Community Hall last month to encourage people to provide feedback on the proposed locations and ask them whether they

believe a second public swimming pool is needed in Douglas Shire.

Council staff reported a fantastic turnout from local families who were keen to learn more about the proposed project.

An online survey, which closes on Friday 3 March 2023, has recorded more than 700 responses.

Daintree Ferry to close for safety inspection and maintenance

Upcoming Daintree Ferry Temporary Closure

March 2023 - Mandatory inspection

Stops: 12:01am, Monday 6 March

Starts: 5am, Saturday 11 March

Passenger ferry will operate 6am to 6pm daily

Car parking will be available on both sides of the river

The five-day closure is for the Australian Maritime Safety Authority out-of-water inspection

For more information, please visit Council's website or call 4099 9444

THE AUSTRALIAN Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) will conduct an out-of-water safety inspection of the Daintree Ferry from Monday morning next week.

Douglas Shire Council will close the vehicle ferry for five days from 12.01am on Monday 6 March 2023 to allow the inspection and vital maintenance tasks to be completed.

At high tide on Monday, dry-dock airbags will be placed on the concrete ramp at the southern side of the Daintree River and inflated slowly to help tow the ferry to shore. This could take up to six hours.

Inflation and deflation of the airbags is regulated by gauges to control lift capacity, ferry height and airbag pressure. The ferry will be washed down and inspected once secured.

After the inspection, Council will also undertake important maintenance tasks that can’t be done during normal operations.

At this stage, the ferry is

scheduled to resume service at 5am on Saturday 11 March 2023.

Douglas Shire Mayor Michael Kerr said the five-day closure was a complex exercise that would guarantee a safe ferry operation.

“The Daintree Ferry is a critical public transport service that connects people living on both sides of the Daintree River and is the arterial link for the tourism economy over the river,” he said.

“As one of the last cable vehicle ferries in tropical Australia, it is a unique service that transports about 230,000 vehicle movements between the southern bank of the river and the world’s oldest rainforest each year.

“The ferry is a workhorse that runs 19 hours on every day of the year, so we are taking the opportunity while it is out of the water to do as much maintenance as possible and we appreciate the community’s patience whilst this compulsory AMSA inspection is completed.”

“Council continues to invest in the iconic river crossing to ensure this required transport link maintains an exceptional level of service, improves travellers’ experience, enhances local community needs and complies with relevant safety requirements.”

Since announcing the closure in August 2022, Council held two drop-in sessions and sought feedback from key ferry users.

A 50-person passenger vessel will take people across the river during the closure – operating continuously all day from sunrise to sunset.

Council has organized security to protect any vehicles such as tour buses, which will be parked on the northern side during the closure, to enable companies to continue taking travellers on day tours to the Daintree. Emergency services and Queensland Health have also put measures in place to ensure the community is well prepared.

Douglas Shire Mayor Michael Kerr with community members at the Port Douglas Aquatic Precinct Consultation

Coastal Works Step Up At Four Mile Beach

A NEW boardwalk and stairs will make it easier to get to Four Mile Beach via Sand Street in Port Douglas.

Douglas Shire Council will replace the old wooden stairs with composite fibre stairs and a boardwalk. Further work will also be done on the track at the end of Port Street including realignment of a beach access track, general path maintenance and fencing.

Once complete, interpretative signs will be installed, and a community tree planting day will be organised to help beautify the area.

Douglas Shire Mayor Michael Kerr said the up-

grades would improve access to the beach and help rehabilitate the foreshore.

“Four Mile Beach is one of the best coastlines in the country and any investment making it more accessible is fantastic news for locals and visitors,” he said.

“The new beach access and coastal rehabilitation forms part of Council’s Resilient Coast Strategic Plan which helps us manage the risk of coastal hazards.”

“I am very pleased Council received funding and appreciate the support of the State Government and Local Government Association of Queensland to help

Resilience Tour – Round Two

our communities prepare for the impacts of climate change.”

Council has received $188,000 under the QCoast2100 Program for a Community Coastal Rehabilitation & Education Project.

The QCoast 2100 Program is funded by the Queensland Government and administered by Local Government Association of Queensland.

Beach access tracks may be closed at times while the upgrades are underway until mid-May 2023, however there are two alternative beach access tracks close by.

Mossman State School Celebrates 125 years

MOSSMAN State School has marked 125 years of teaching our local kids. Douglas Shire Councillors joined the school community to celebrate the school’s rich educational history in our region.

Established in 1898, many fourth generational local families still attend the school today.

DOUGLAS Shire Council is working with the community to develop seven local community resilience scorecards and one with our First Nations community.

The purpose of the Community Resilience Scorecard Project is to support people, communities, organisations and businesses to understand their risks and role during extreme weather, and encourage resilience actions to improve community outcomes after natural hazard events.

During October and November 2022, workshops were conducted across the

Shire with locals in their communities. The project team will be on the road again in March and April 2023.

Why should I come?

Residents are invited to participate in the next round of workshops to share lived experience with natural hazards and help develop each local community’s resilience scorecard. The draft version of the scorecard will be discussed, and feedback sought residents.

The scorecards will help raise community awareness

of risk, how to respond and provide insights for local disaster management about specific issues in each community. The scorecards will go onto inform updates to the Douglas Local Disaster Management Plan.

Who should attend?

All community members are invited to share stories and contribute to the development of their local resilience scorecard. If you attended one of the community workshops in 2022, please come again to continue the conversation.

2023 WORKSHOPS

Bloomfield, China Camp & Degarra

Tuesday 14 March

9am to 12pm, Wujal Wujal Sports Centre

Cape Tribulation to Cape Kimberley

Tuesday 14 March 4pm – 7pm

Daintree Peaks Eco Stays

Daintree Village & surrounding valleys

Wednesday 15 March 9am – 12pm

Daintree Community Hall

Newell Beach

Wednesday 15 March 4pm – 7pm

Mossman Golf Club, Newell Beach Road, Mossman

Can’t make a workshop?

Wonga Beach & Rocky Point

Monday 27 March 5pm – 8pm

Wonga Rural Fire Brigade

Mossman & Cooya Beach

Tuesday 28 March

2pm – 5pm

Mossman Bowls Club

Port Douglas, Craiglie, Oak Beach & Wangetti

Wednesday 29 March 9am – 12pm

Port Douglas Community Hall

Mossman & Cooya Beach

Monday 17 April

5pm – 8pm

Mossman Fire Station

Scan the QR code to complete this survey to imprint your local voice on the community resilience scorecard for your local community. Alternatively, visit: surveymonkey.com/r/MHR5LCW.

A new boardwalk and stairs will make it easier to get to Four Mile Beach via Sand Street in Port Douglas

Members of the community talking about disaster resilience at session at Wonga Beach in 2022

Douglas Shire Councillors helped Mossman State School mark 125 years of teaching our local kids last month.

Unsealed roads in line for an upgrade

THREE sections of rural unsealed roads will be turned into concrete pavements later this year.

Douglas Shire Council has awarded a contract to Bissell Concreting Pty Ltd to upgrade sections of Whyanbeel Rd, Bamboo Ck Rd and Forest Ck Road. Assistance was provided

through the jointly-funded Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA)

These three roads consistently require repairs after heavy rain and flooding, making it harder for residents and emergency services to access. It also reduces the amount of money spent on

road repairs over the next 50 years. During construction, these sites will be restricted to one lane under traffic management plans to help road users. These projects follow recent floodway improvement work which was completed at Poletti Rd at Miallo.

Wonga Beach & Mossman Students shine

DOUGLAS Shire Councillors visited local schools last month to help students bring in 2023.

Deputy Mayor Lisa Scomazzon visited Wonga Beach State School to hand out the 2023 Student Leader

badges. She was able to congratulate new student leaders and welcome their new principal, Miss Emma Tait. Douglas Shire Mayor Michael Kerr had the honour of handing out leadership badges at Mossman State

Saturday 18th – Mossman Markets, 7am – 1pm

Sunday 19th – Port Douglas Sunday Markets, 8am – 1.30pm

Saturday 25th – Mossman Markets, 7am – 1pm

High School. Council would like to congratulate students who were made house captains, student leaders. and all seniors completing their final year of high school.

Three rural unsealed roads will be turned into concrete pavements later this year. Poletti Road at Miallo recieved floodway improvements late last year

Wonga Beach State School Principal Miss Emma Tait with student leaders and Douglas Shire Deputy Mayor Cr Lisa Scomazzon

Embracing women in 2023

l CAIRNS

THREE Cairns women will be acknowledged for their leadership in the community at the 2023 International Women’s Day awards next week.

The categories are:

• Cairns Regional Council Woman of the Year

• Cairns Regional Council Young Woman of the Year

• Women’s $2000 Recognition Award.

A council spokesman said the awards were at the Pullman Cairns International Hotel on March 8 from 7.30am

He said the winners would be women who “demonstrated leadership, commitment and passion for the well-being of the community” and as “inspirational role models”.

The spokesman said the recognition award was for the purpose of encouraging women to achieve an important goal and to support their valuable contribution to our community. The award provides $2000.

To be eligible women must be actively pursuing a goal and/or contributing to women in the Cairns community.

This year’s theme is #EmbraceEquity. Embrace equity. Embrace inclusion. Embrace and celebrate differences. We embrace equity to forge harmony and unity, and to help success for all.

The event’s guest speaker is Queensland Police Citizens Youth Welfare Association youth club manager Sergeant Kelly Chamberlain. Bookings are via Eventbrite. Tickets cost $45 and includes a light breakfast. Bookings close on March 6.

Other International Women’s Day events include the exhibition launch of Flame 2023 – International Women’s Day Exhibition, which is the

outcome of a mentorship program giving young women experience in the professional arts industry. It is on Saturday, March 4 from 6pm at Tank 4, Tanks Arts Centre, 46 Collins Avenue, Edge Hill.

A council spokesman said six established female artists from the Cairns region and Douglas shire were invited to mentor young women whose talent had been identified in the 2022 ENERGY

HAPPY INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY FROM OUR TEAM!

exhibition, an annual showcase of our region’s best senior high school art students.

“The mentorship aims to encourage young women to develop a network of support and collaborate with other emerging artists and maintain an arts practice within their region,” he said.

Mentors include Keelie Nicolls, Pam Kusabs, Fiona Price, Susan Reys, Naomi Evans and Mo-

nique Burkhead, and between the six professional artists, they mentored 24 emerging artists.

The exhibition will be open to the public every day until Sunday March 26.

The Cairns Businesswomen’s Club is hosting an International Women’s Day lunch on Friday, March 10 at the Hilton Hotel.

It’s a day to celebrate women’s achievements and both highlight and work to address barriers that continue to perpetuate gender inequality. Every person attending the lunch will receive an IWD purple ribbon.

AusMumpreneur co-founders Peace Mitchell and Katy Garner, of Innisfail, will be the guest speakers at the lunch. Tickets are $79 for members or $99 for non-members. The event starts at 11am.

Go to the website https://cbwc.org.au/

Other events include:

• March 5: The Cairns RSL Subbranch hosts an International Women’s Day High Tea at the Shangri-La hotel at the Pier March 5: International Women’s Day 2023 lunch at the Salt House by Salt House and COUCH (Cairns Organisation United for Cancer Health)

• March 5: Women Of Steel - Euroa Community Cinema – at 10.30am at Event Cinemas, Cairns Central Shopping Centre

• March 8: International Women’s Day 2023 lunch – Cracking the Code at Perrotta’s at the Gallery by Tahni Rush and FNQ Girls Just Want to Have Fun

• March 8: Cassowary Coast Regional Council event at noon at the Innisfail Shire Hall, Rankin St

• Ladies of the Daintree Coast International Women’s Day lunch from 12.30pm at the Diwan Cricket Club, $35 for two-course meal.

It's our Birthday too!

This month Wellness Embodied owner Suzanne Rath and her team celebrate the practice’s 6th birthday From humble beginnings as sole physiotherapist with a vision of making FNQ the healthiest region in Australia, Suzanne has grown the practice to 4 locations & a team of 24

How can Wellness Embodied help the women of Cairns/ Cooktown to live healthier, happier lives?

Whether it’s as simple as booking a regular massage for tension, or seeing any of our highly qualified team of Allied Health professionals, we ’ ve got you covered. For pain, injury or movement issues, an appointment with one of our Physiotherapists or Osteopaths is a good place to start

Suzanne's Top Tip for women to excel:

Make time for rest and recovery- you can't pour from an empty cup! I've developed a range of daily habits for my own health, which help me focus & perform better.

42319777

2022 Cairns Woman of the Year Kesa Strieby and 2022 Cairns Young Woman of the Year Jessica Fatnowna.

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Her services include laptop repairs including screens, keyboard’s and hard drives; desktop repairs including upgrades and replacements; Apple Mac repairs and upgrades, and software repairs and installations.

If your computer has a problem, Rachel can fix it quickly and at a competitive price or if you need a custom-built desktop computer, a high-quality laptop, computer accessories or software then Get That Geek is the place to go.

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e: admin@getthatgeek.com.au

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A “Find Your Style” session is the perfect way to get your ideas together. It includes a home visit to brainstorm ideas and follow up inspiration folder and personalised Styling Guide.

Other styling services include stylish shopping, renovation selections, new home styling and holiday rental styling. I would love to work with you.

If you would like to know more please get in touch to arrange a complimentary design call. 0400 518 096 www.lisacremastyling.com.au hello@lisacrema.com.au

With over 21 years of experience working in the travel industry, I’ve gained a comprehensive knowledge to provide my clients with the best travel options. Being self-employed and aligned with Travel Managers enables me to offer a truly personal service that is tailored to my clients.

I have engaged with the local community by being a part of the Cairns Italian Festival committee. I am dedicated to making worldwide travel arrangements as convenient and as flexible as possible. I offer you a friendly one stop shop for all your travel needs. I pride myself on exemplary service, total professionalism, and altogether superior value.

Now that travel is back on people’s minds, take advantage of my fully escorted tour of Puglia, the heel of Italy’s boot. One of Italy’s famous regions where there is an abundance of history, and its countryside has always been its source for food and culture. The tour departs August 25, bookings are limited so please call me to book your trip to Italy.

Patty Poutanen

0427 786 500

PATTY POUTANEN

AS a dedicated Accountant for over 20 years, Leann prides herself on her dedication and hard work.

“I have enjoyed building my business PnL Accounting Services as a boutique style accounting firm and using my experience to offer personalised business and taxation services, for small to medium businesses across the cassowary coast,” said Leann.

Dayle Mauloni is a CPA Accountant and joined the team at PnL Accounting Services in 2022 after working in various accounting roles across a wide range of industries for the past 20 years. Dayle has worked as a tax accountant, giving a strong foundation in bookkeeping, GST and tax principles, and commercial accounting roles, giving her extensive knowledge in management accounting and helping businesses to achieve their desired business goals. We have extensive experience with the following business software: MYOB; Xero; QuickBooks; Attache; and Banklink.

Our focus is on building trust with clients and ensuring they get the accounting services they need to have a financially healthy business. We live up to our logo Working together for the Future.

MY name is Tessa and I am the proud owner of Bare Hair Studio in Palm Cove.

Originally from country Victoria, I have been living in the paradise of Palm Cove for just over 5 years.

I started pursuing hairdressing whilst in year 10 at school, I then went on to complete my apprenticeship, which has lead me to where I am today.

In July 2021 I made the decision to purchase my own boutique style hair salon.

Being so young I had my hesitations, however, I wanted to pursue this amazing opportunity without allowing any of the risks to become barriers.

Being surrounded by such supportive people in my life made a world of difference. Now, not only do I have the ongoing support from my family and friends, but the whole Cairns northern beaches community.

I believe there is more than just being a hairdresser, having my own space provides me with the freedom and opportunity to touch peoples lives in more way than just one.

Being a young business owner has allowed me the freedom and flexibility to have an amazing work-life balance whilst making me love what I do every day all over again!

Fiona Nicholl Director

Accatino Director

Leann Lowe Principal Accountant MIPA Bcom CDec

Dayle Mauloni Senior CPA Accountant

eMotion Video Training & Production

Video is exploding and Cairns-based female founders Kirsty Nancarrow and Suzie Cray are on a mission to empower you to create your own content using a tool you already have - a smartphone.

As experienced media industry professionals, Kirsty and Suzie saw the need to make video skills more accessible to people in regional areas, so they started eMotion Video Training & Production.

Since 2019, they’ve been helping everyone from small businesses to large organisations bring video production in house, save money and take advantage of spontaneous content opportunities wherever they are. Public workshops covering the whole video production process are held in Cairns throughout the year.

They’re running a Smartphone Video Editing Workshop on International Women’s Day, March 8, 9am-12:30pm. Tickets: www.emotionvideo.com.au.

eMotion Video also offers private coaching in filming, editing, presentation and media interview skills and can help you with your next video project from the initial concept to scripting, filming and editing.

Your partner in video success, every step of the way! info@emotionvideo.com.au www.emotionvideo.com.au

Phone: 0400 130 634 or 0413 301 079

Shop, Play & Stay at Palm Cove Annie’s in Trouble Again!

As

“Annie I go past your shop windows and something always calls me in.”

“Annie I have to come back for the other colour in these shoes, I don’t even feel like I have them on!”

“Annie, Everyone wants my new Annie’s dress, I even have complete strangers come up and compliment me when I wear it.”

“See

Find Beach Catwalk Boutique opposite Nunu Restaurant, 2-22 Veivers Rd, Palm Cove 0497 888 780

EVERY day we provide service with a smile to all our regulars and visitors, who enjoy an authentic Italian taste experience with high quality food that’s prepared by hand every day using the recipes and techniques handed down over generations.

Voted best pizza by hungry locals in 2016, we continue in that tradition and invite you to view our menu, order pick-up or arrange delivery for you and all your friends, or to come in and let our friendly team recommend a selection of specials and favourites that will satisfy every appetite!

believe how often she is told off

Silvia

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY

An experienced nurse of 30 years, Joyce Coyle enjoys working in all aspects of the acute medical setting. Concentrating on Antiaging treatments, Natural Aesthetics promises to deliver fresh and rejuvenated results using antiwrinkle injectables to smooth the fi ne lines and wrinkles without resulting in the frozen look!

Applying premium quality dermal fillers for your “liquid face lift’ or providing plump luscious lips or perhaps just a little balance and moisture, you will be delighted with the results.

In addition to the traditional treatments, I now have access to the new bio-remodelling hydrating treatment which received approval in Australia late last year. This product stimulates the body’s own cells to produce more collagen and elastin in the skin which provides overall improvement in lines, wrinkles and volume across the skin surface.

I am here to help with medical conditions too: embarrassing overactive sweat glands (hyperhidrosis), teeth grinding and tension headaches. All treatable with a couple of tiny painless injections!

Port Douglas is a wonderful little drive so why not make a day of it and receive great care and attention with your injectable journey.

Cairns FM89.1 – Radio for the people by the people

Cairns FM89.1 is proud to support “International Women’s Day 2023” by giving its airwaves to its female presenters from 6.00am on March 8th 2023 to hear from inspiring women in Cairns and support a great cause.

The station will be rebranded as “Women of Cairns” for the day to showcase the talent and voices of women in Cairns.

In addition, Cairns FM89.1 is committed to making a ‘difference in the community’. Listeners and the general public are invited to support St Margaret’s Young Women’s Shelter, whose aim it is to support young women who are homeless or at risk of homelessness, to work towards stability in their living arrangements. Donations can be made by visiting the Cairns FM89.1 website, clicking the link to take you directly to the St Margaret’s Young Women’s Shelter page.

Sharon Vyner

Palm Cove Spa and Beauty

OUR beauty and massage team believes no two people are the same, which is why we customize and personalize your treatment to suit no one else but you.

Di Bailey

Sharon Vyner is an experienced real estate agent in the Cairns South Region with 29 years of experience. Sharon is committed to providing the best possible service for her clients and always strives to ensure that their experience is stress-free. She is an excellent communicator and is always happy to answer any questions buyers or sellers may have. Her passion for real estate is evident in her dedication to helping her clients move on with their lives and find their dream homes.

a no obligation chat about

be

in this market, give her a call on 0417 778 606

As a mother and grandmother of loving families, my experience transpires through love and care when providing services to clients.

Obtaining a Diploma in Beauty Therapy in the later years of my life has been a journey providing me with professional experience ensuring clients receive a focused, comfortable and skilled service.

Amanda Savory-Galeano

I have been a beauty therapist for over ten years and love looking after my clients.

Being a parent of 6 children makes you learn about yourself and your morals and your definition of success and happiness.

For

what your property might

worth

Motoring Vintage car’s new Tableland garage

l HERBERTON

I NICK DALTON

THE first car sold by the oldest car dealership in Cairns has returned ‘home’.

The five-seat 1924 Chrysler Tourer, the first car the late Francis R. Ireland sold nearly 100 years ago, has been gifted by the Ireland family to the Historic Village Herberton which is the new custodian of the vehicle.

Grandson Richard Ireland said the car had been at the company’s dealership since the 1990s but often had to be hidden away in a shed due to lack of floor space.

“My brother David and I decided the car deserves better and should be more accessible to the public,” he said.

“Its return to the Herberton area is sentimental for both the Ireland family and the town of Herberton and nearby Irvinebank, as that’s where the car’s first owner lived and used the car for decades.”

David Ireland said the 1924 Chrysler was restored in the 1980s by Keith ‘Snowy’ Liekefett of Innisfail, who offered it to the Irelands in 1991.

As part of the family’s preparations for celebrating 100 years of business in Cairns, the brothers contacted one of the Far Northern region’s best histori-

cal displays to see if they wanted it.

“Now, the car will have pride of place in its ‘hometown’. It will be accessible for all to reminisce about and marvel at its age and history,” David Ireland said.

The model sold in huge numbers.

Chrysler’s Queensland distributors entrusted Mr Ireland with the job of demonstrating the new car. He travelled by the recently opened Gillies Range Road through Yungaburra to Herberton and Irvinebank, a real feat in those days.

“While in Irvinebank, my grandfather heard that a local schoolteacher might be interested in the car and Mr Pienegar from Irvinebank bought the vehicle after several demonstrations by my grandfather,” he said.

The car was passed down to Mr Pienegar’s sons.

Historic village curator Darryl Cooper said the 1924 Chrysler was the perfect complement to the vintage vehicle collection already on display.

“While the Chrysler was a mid-range priced vehicle, they were considered a prestige vehicle and rather special for the time,” he said.

Mr Cooper said it was fitting the village was displaying the first car sold by Ireland’s of Cairns.

TABLELAND DISTRIBUTOR FOR:

Historic Village Herberton curator Darryl Cooper with the 1924 Chrysler Tourer. Picture: Darryl Day

TimeOut

Belting out 80s hits

l CAIRNS

| NICK DALTON

THE Reef Hotel Casino is going back in time to the 1980s to bring the best music of the period to the entertainment venue on Friday and Saturday (March 3 and 4).

Entertainment manager Bruce Stewart said “it is back to the 80s with the bigger, badder more bodacious big noise live”.

“The casino jumped back to the 80s several times in 2022 and to the delight of the casino and patrons stepping back to the 80s. It certainly was timely,” he said.

“Cairns loves the 80s it seems. It was bigger than New Year’s Eve.

“Back to the 80s has been an overwhelming suc-

cess with the live shows by local act Big Noise.

Mr Stewart said the casino production team worked closely with the band to jointly produce “a sight, sound and visual experience for anyone who came along”.

“It is an authentic 80s night, with more than three hours of live music, which is also recorded,” he said.

“It was something we were going to roll out preCovid but it looks like the wait certainly was worth it, with 2022 becoming the new 1982.”

Mr Stewart said the ‘bigger badder’ Big Noise repackaged themselves for the shows, with a fourpiece. Adrian Cartwright is taking to the front of the stage as front man, rolling out hit after hit with members Jock Williamson , Dale Monaghan and Brad Townsend.

The band has been consistently playing at venues throughout the region for the last 25 years.

“We try and play each cover as close as the original as possible with the energy that only a live band can give,” the band said.

“We also try and do as many requests as possible. If the crowd wants it, we’ll play it.”

Mr Stewart said the band covered all the 80s genres and unique 80s sounds “from Brit new wave to American anthem to NZ pop and Aussie rock”.

Casino bars and restaurant manager Mikaela Ries-Rogers said the music would be “fused with a lighting show and visuals to match and transforms our BAR36 and foyer into animmersive 80s club taking the audience on a musical journey back to the 80s”.

“We were blown away about how many people dressed up in 80s gear. It was a great surprise,” she said.

The free shows are from 4-8pm on Friday and Saturday at BAR 36.

Mikaela Ries-Rogers on stage at BAR 36. Picture: Nick Dalton

TimeOut Tropical taste of Rio

THE first Brazilian Carnival in 20 years was a rampant success with over 300 participants enjoying a night of live music by Marcio Mendes, feathered dancers, samba lessons by Sambalicious and the musical setting led by Dj Dread Juan.

“This definitely will become an annual event,” said Carnival’s organiser Taciano Cavalcante.

“Considering we hadn’t had a carnival in 20 years, it was very well received by Brazilians, Latinos and the Cairns community.

“Carnival has reignited the Brazilian community and started a movement,” he said.

Story by Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

Cristina Giai-Coletti, Michele Purkiss and Sabine Schroeder.

The Januario family, Nicky, Eliana, Sophia and Tamiaro.

Left: Victor Barros, Toppy and Jonatas Oliveiratas Oliveira.

Oscar Palacio and Julieta Paez.

DJ Dread Juan at the carnival.

Pictures: Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

(Jan Wanet and Marie Wynarski.

Gitti Wynarski, Lisa Winarski, Udo Krueger and Vikki Colambot.

Debora Juer, Cassio Rocha, Reinaldo Rodrigues and Samara Falcao.

STELLA DONNELLY TANKS ARTS CENTRE

l SATURDAY MARCH 4TH

Stella Donnelly has recently finished recording her new album ‘Flood’ with award-winning producer Anna Laverty. The record is described as the singer-songwriter’s “record of rediscovery: the product of months of risky experimentation, hard moments of introspection, and a lot of transition”. Performing at the Tanks Arts Centre, we can’t wait to hear this incredible musician live.

Cost: From $35.00

Book your tickets through Ticketlink.

FLAME 2023 TANKS ARTS CENTRE

l SATURDAY MARCH 4TH

FLAME is the exhibition outcome of a mentorship program to give young women experience in the professional arts industry.

Six established women artists from the Cairns Region and the Douglas Shire were asked to mentor emerging artists whose talent had been identified in the 2021 ENERGY exhibition, an annual showcase of our region’s best senior high school art students.

Exhibition: Saturday 4 March - Sunday 26 March

A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM CPAC

l SATURDAY MARCH 4TH

Brimming with mischief and mayhem, Shakespeare’s fantastical masterpiece interweaves the magical realm of fairies and woodland creatures with the mortal world of unrequited lovers. An extraordinary production by Queensland Ballet, this is a magical performance to enchant all audiences.

Cost: From $45.00

Book your tickets through ticketlink.

RACE DAY CAIRNS JOCKEY CLUB

l FRIDAY MARCH 3RD

Live local racing with 8 races, TAB + Bookie Facilitiesm Bar + Kiosk Facilities, Reserved seating available in the Reef Lounge.

Gates Open at 12:00pm

Cost: General Admission – FREE / Members for the Day – $30.00

Tickets are available through Cairns Jockey Club.

FRIDAY

Vivien Aisi - Dunwoody’s, 4.00pm

Wind and Wood - Ten06, 5.30pm

GROWING UP IN THE TROPICS CAIRNS MUSEUM

l SATURDAY MARCH 4TH

The Cairns Museum presents recollections of childhood through photographs, artefacts, drawings, and smells that characterise the uniqueness of tropical landscape and climate with its beauty and challenges.

Public Exhibition Runs: Saturday 4th March to Saturday 17th June 2023

Cost: Admission is free with Museum entry. Book tickets through Cairns Museum.

SATURDAY

DNA - Hemingways Brewery Cairns, 2.00pm

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY 2023

l SATURDAY JULY 30TH

International Women’s Day 2023’s campaign theme aims to get the world talking about why “equal opportunities are no longer enough.” We can all truly embrace equity. How will you be embracing equity this International Women’s Day in Cairns?

See Cairns Calendar for local events

SUNDAY

Blue Reed - Mandala Café, 10.00am

Pete Bennett - Mayhem at Machans Café Bar, 5.30pm

Bad Boys of Uke - Nonna Leotta’s, 6.30pm

SAX MAN Troy Stevens - The Benson Hotel, 6.30pm

Carinda Christie - Bingil Bay Café, 6.30pm

Kick Start - Cazalys Cairns , 6.30pm

Vieux Farka Toure - Tanks Arts Centre, 7.30pm

Katie Richards - Courthouse Hotel, Port Douglas, 7.30pm

Janna Mercedes - The Ant Hill Hotel Mareeba, 8.00pm

Back to the 80s Big Noise - Bar36 at The Reef Hotel Casino, 8.30pm

Tanya Murphy - Yorkeys Knob Boating Club, 3.00pm

Katie Richards - Boardwalk Social by Crystalbrook, 4.00pm

Klare KuOlga - The Vine Room Doubletree, 6.00pm

No More No Less - Strait on the Beach, 6.00pm

Carrizma - Cazalys Cairns , 6.15pm

Exotic Potion Cookie - Elixir Music House, 7.00pm

DJ Darkside Iconic Pride Party - The Secret Jungle, 7.00pm

Stella Donnelly - Tanks Arts Centre, 7.30pm

Janna Mercedes - Rattle n Hum Palm Cove, 8.00pm

The Brazillians - Red Beret Hotel, 8.00pm

Back to the 80s Big Noise - Bar36 at The Reef Hotel Casino, 8.30pm

Jeanettte Wormald - Koah Monthly Markets, 9.00am

DjGlennW - Dundees at the Cairns Aquarium, 11.30am

Shannae Sclippa - Dunwoody’s, 2.00pm

Bobby Maguire - Palm Cove Tavern, 3.00pm

Vivien Aisi - Paper Crane by Crystalbrook, 3.00pm

Katie Richards - Sauce Brewing Co, 3.00pm

Miss Tee - The Jack, 41.00pm

Cinnamon Sun - Elixir Music House, 5.30pm

Justin Wellington - Bar36 at The Reef Hotel Casino, 7.30pm

Weekly Horoscopes

You may want to sign up for lectures or courses that will bring you mental stimulation. You will be popular with acquaintances; however, loved ones could feel left out and insecure. You will not impress others by being foolishly generous. Travel will be in your best interest.

You may want to invest in something that will grow in value. Pleasure trips should be on your agenda. Empty promises will cause upset. Investments are best left alone this week.

Unexpected bills may set you back. Visit friends or relatives who have been confirmed. Home improvement projects will run smoothly. Join a choir or a drama club. You may be considering moving to larger quarters.

CROSSWORD

You have your own family to consider as well. Go after your professional goals. Trips will be favourable for business as well as pleasure. Your sensitive, affectionate nature will capture the heart of anyone you are attracted to. Your main concern will be to restrain your spending.

You may need to lend an ear to an old friend. If they’re really interested, they’ll wait. Take your time. Underhandedness will affect your reputation.

Your temper could get the better of you if you confront personal situations. Be prepared to take advantage of your good fortune. Your tendency to vacillate will drive everyone crazy. You are ahead of your time, and trying to stay in one spot could be asking too much.

ACROSS

being displayed or handled in a shop (8)

27. considered in relation or in proportion to something else (8)

28. to punish with a fine (6)

DOWN

1. to evoke images, memories, and emotions (8)

2. a specially designed harbour with moorings for yachts and small boats (6)

3. contemptuous ridicule or mockery (8)

4. process where a substance, usually a gas, forms alayer on the surface of another substance (7)

5. aving the properties of an acid, or containing acid (6)

6. a decisive or final defeat (8)

7. on friendly terms; friendly (6)

Don’t let friends or relatives rule your life. You’ll only hurt your lover if you don’t. You can make or break your personal relationship this week. You need a change of pace.

Children will be of major concern if you haven’t kept the lines of communication open. First find out if they’re married. Your ability to charm others will put you in the limelight at social functions. Your sensitive nature will allow others to read you well.

Be careful while traveling. A romantic infatuation from your past may surface if you frequent places that you both used to go. Be prepared for an active but rewarding day. You should teach children some of your unique creative talents.

8. the members of a household (6)

9. prolonged pain in one’s back (8)

10. a politician or person with strong political views (8)

11. having a magical or pleasantly unreal quality (6)

12. a type of highly seasoned sausage, originally from Italy, usually eaten cold in slices (6)

13. Australian slang for no chance (8)

15. a man who belongs by rank, title, or birth to the aristocracy (8)

17. belonging to or affecting a particular person rather than anyone else (8)

18. a medical condition in which the lens of the eye becomes progressively opaque (8)

19. a long and eventful or adventurous journey or experience (7)

People trying to entice you to join in will be less than trustworthy. You are best to deal with those outside your family. Don’t be afraid to make a move if you aren’t happy with your emotional situation. Socializing or travel will lead to partnerships

Children may pose a problem if they don’t like suggestions. Take care of the needs or responsibilities of elders. Emotional deception is evident. If you’re feeling uncertain, spend some time alone and revaluate your motives as well as your needs.

Don’t

may be feeling. Don’t let others try to create unwarranted guilt if you can’t meet their demands.

14. what is meant by a word, text, concept, or action (7)

16. a blob or smear of something (7)

20. the world of nightclubs (8)

23. the state of being highly regarded (6)

25. a small, narrow river (6)

26. an item made dirty or imperfect by

21. occurring or situated nearer to the end of something than to the beginning (6)

22. a hollow under the arm at the shoulder (6)

24. fine, dry particles produced by the grinding, crushing, or disintegration of a solid substance (6)

say things that could be damaging later. Cut loose. Restrictions may be difficult for you to live with. Look into physical activities that will help get rid of some of that tension you

PRIVACY POLICY

Cairns

Local

News

Cairns Local News collects personal information to assist us in providing goods and services which you have requested to process competition entries, giveaways and to improve our products and services to you. We may be in touch by phone, mail, fax or internet to inform you of any services and promotions which may be of interest.

If you would prefer us not to do so, please write to us at:

Cairns Local News, Suite F03, The Conservatory, 12-14 Lake St, Cairns, Qld 4870

Access to your personal information can be obtained by calling (07) 4031 7678.

Friday March 3rd

Local News Cairns

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PERSONALS

FOR SALE

NOTICES GARAGE SALE

FNQ Markets

Saturday March 4th

Sunday March 5th

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

Cairns Night Markets: 54-60 Abbott St, 16:30-23:00 Gordonvale Cottage Markets: Norman Park, 07:00-12:00 Koah: Koah Hall, Koah Rd, 09:00-13:00

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

Kuranda Rainforest Markets: 7 Therwine St, 09:30-15:00

Mossman: St David’s Church, 07:00-13:00

Rusty’s Markets: Grafton St, Cairns, 05:00-18:00

Atherton: Our Saviour Lutheran Church, 6:00-12:00

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

Mission Beach Markets: Opposite Hideaways, 07:00-12:00

Port Douglas: by St Mary’s Church, 07:30-14:00

Rusty’s Markets: Grafton St, Cairns, 05:00-18:00

Tolga: Morrow Park Racecourse, 07:00-12.00

Sport Results

MOSSMAN LADIES’ BOWLS

Thursday February 23rd: Two Bowls Singles: Joanne Dickson def Jan Stokes; Greta Kessler def Pam Widdows; Carole Maxted def Honey C. Good to see players who had to give bowls away for a few years, come back and enter the competitions. Well done, Janice and Greta. Raffle won by Anne Geddes. Social Bowls Winners: Pauline Lightfoot, Gloria Geeves, Margaret Smith and Anne Geddes; R/ups: Zena Girgenti, Maree Crees, Christine Rowbury and Carole Maxted. Ladies, we have more opportunities for you to enter upcoming competitions. Look in the book, in the drawer. Ladies wanting to play on Thursday; names in by 12pm and we play at 1pm. All welcome, and there is free coaching available. For more information contact Carole Maxted: caroles44bb@ dodo.com.au or 0400 954 537.

Sunday February 19th: Social Mixed Bowls Winners: Bryan King, Maria Snook and Ted Holmes; R/ups: Margaret Smith and Peter McGrory. Come for a light lunch at our Bistro before bowls. Names in by noon and play is at 1pm. Beginners, past players; all encouraged to play, casual attire. Contact the Mossman Bowls Club at 4098 1434.

MARLIN COAST BOWLS

CLUB

Tuesday Afternoon Men’s Triples: Winners: G Midson, A Tymms, B O’Connor; R/up: P Williamson, Jock, B Smith.

Tuesday Night Bowls: Spider: Kiraly, Dennis, Ian, Deb, Sisca, Rod, Hugh, Michael. Wednesday Mixed Bowls: Winners: B Clarkson, N Hooker, L Kenshole; R/ups: J Baumann, R Lee. Thursday Mixed Triples: Winners: Andy, Brad, Ross; R/ ups: Olga, Jo, Christine. Club

Championships: Ladies 4’s: A Ashton, J Curtayne, J Baumann def R Blake, E Herwig, J ward, G Andersen, 18-16; All bowlers, non-bowlers and tourists welcome, bowls available for free, ph 4057 6931. Note: All social games played, cards are called 15 minutes before start. Club championships to be played: Check boards for play by dates for Championship games. Like us on Facebook. Special Events: Raffles Friday night also trivia. Ladies Classic March 12th;

INNISFAIL MENS

Men’s Classic March 18th and 19th; Marlin Coast Sponsored Mixed Fours April 2nd.

WEST CAIRNS MEN’S BOWLS CLUB

Friday Scroungers Winner: Tania Sprenger; R/up: Pauline Bent. Tuesday afternoon: Winners: Joe Jackson, Ted Hamilton and Phil Buntain, 22pts; R/ up: B Rushl, Morrie and Mario Pinalli, 20pts and +5 in the second game. Thirsty Thursday best players: Chris Auger, Campie, and Eddie Brown and Tony Dalalba. Sunday Morning Winners: Mal Gordon, Don Lowe, and Johnny Banes, 24 pts; R/ups: Greg Stanley, Ted Hamilton and Scotty, 22 pts. The Jackpot was not won (-13). Club Championship Season 2023:

Men’s 4’s Second round Winner: K Richardson, M Lynch, M Hetherton and J Johnston, 29pts def N Mallyon, J Carr, G Donovan and J Bent, 9 pts. With 16 teams from all over the Far North playing in the WESTCO Classic men’s 4’s competition on Saturday and Sunday at West Cairns, there will not be any social bowls. Happy bowling and see you on the Green. Social bowlers are always welcome.

MAREEBA BOWLS CLUB

Wednesdays: Club selected games 2x 12 ends 12.30pm for 1pm start. Thursday February 23rd: Self-selected pairs Winners: G Brown, L Cadorin; R/up: W Fergerson, B Fitzpatric. Best of 2nd game: N Gray, R Keddie. Sunday February 26t: thanks to the birthday people for sponsoring the afternoon. Winners: R Parry, H Wallace, C De Zen, S Stefferson; R/up: P Brown, N Gray, G Brown. For information and nominations phone Mareeba Bowls Club on 4092 5288. Tuesdays: Barefoot bowls names in by 6pm. Come and try bowls, club bowls available and bar open every Tuesday. Coming events: Graham Hotel Open 4 to be played on March 19th, cards called at 8.30am.

BTFNQ BOWLS

BTFNQ District Championships Bowls were completed on Saturday February 18th: Finalists: Fours: Andrew Hanson, Berto Srhoj, Doug Laycock, Wayne Petrohilos; Pairs: Nick Twinning and Lyle Braggins; Singles: Ben Moore.

Thursday afternoon social bowls: Winners: Mick DeVries, Sam Pagano, Clem Kinbacher and Bill Hoskins. Visitors and new members are most welcome. Names in by 12.30pm for a 1pm start.

There were no club games played this week due to wet weather. The Wallis Shield final that was to be played on Saturday was cancelled because of weather.

The final will now be played at South Johnstone on March 25th.

MOSSMAN MEN’S BOWLS

Saturday February 25th: Mossman hosted the annual Mossman Threes with 16 teams playing 3 games (3 bowl triples) of 14 ends (or 2hrs 10 mins) per game. 4th: Peter (Crackers) Hamilton, Neil (Robbo) Robinson, Bill Morris; 3rd: Tony McAlary, Santo Raciti, Bernie O’Shea; R/ups: Shane McInerney, Andrew Hanson, Wayne Petroholis; Winners: Malachy McTaggart, Nick Twinning, Doug Laycock. Thank you to the Mossman Bowls Club for hosting & sponsoring the event

ing at 11.30am finish about 3.00pm. If you wish a game undercover give Liz a call on 0400 626 765 names in by 10.45am. Men and visitors are most welcome to come along for a fun social game club also has bowls to lend at no extra cost. West Cairns Ladies Pennants start on Sunday April 30th, if you wish to play, please put your name on list inside club up on the ladies board. Good Bowling to All.

WEST CAIRNS TPI MEMORIAL BOWLS CLUB

On a sultry Monday afternoon 15 dedicated players enjoyed their afternoon of lawn bowls on the West Cairns club green.

Winners: Mick Ford with Anne Semken as the support player. We are seeking more players to join us in the following months as many of our players from last year have not returned this year. On next Monday at 11am the Annual General Meeting will be held at which the committee will be elected for the 2023 year. All members are urged to attend, especially those we have not seen this year. Following the AGM next Monday, our weekly game will commence with cards being drawn at 1.15pm and the game commencing at 1.30pm. Please contact our selector before 11.00am next if you wish to play. Bowls are available for visitors. A sheet is also available inside the club house. Our club has a reputation for being a friendly club to play social mixed bowls and we look forward to meeting any visiting bowlers.

bowling classes will be held from Monday March 6th for 4 weeks. Check the club notice board for dates and times and your availability to assist.

Social Bowls: Social Bowls will continue on Tuesday at 1pm and Night bowls at 7pm, Wednesday night Self Selected Triples at 7pm. Saturday Social Bowls at 1pm on Saturday. Check with the Club for other times or use of the new Social Bowls Booking forms online on Edge Hill Club Website and check out our Facebook page. You can also contact Ray Webster 0402 182 230 for social bowls assistance and volunteering your time or ring the Club 07 4053 1036.

BROTHERS EDMONTON BOWLS CLUB

Ladies Section: Coming Events: Thursday March 9th: Social bowls as usual names in by 12pm, for play at 1pm.

Men’s Section: Coming Events: Saturday March 4th: Mixed Mufti 3 Bowls Triples club select Skips pick a card cash prizes plus Jackpot. Visitors welcome, nominations close 11.30am for play at 12.30pm contact office on 4055 5344 and leave a message. Wednesday March 7th:

GORDONVALE BOWLS

Wednesday Social Bowls at 1pm newcomers very welcome. Thursday Club Selected 3 Bowl Pairs names by 12.30pm for 1pm start. Weather has been causing problems for bowls; however, we had a few ladies on Wednesday having roll ups, and on Thursday 12 bowlers managed to get 2 games played. Thanks to the guys for the upkeep of the green not an easy task in the wet.

The AGM of the Club was held on Sunday: President: Peter Mulkearns; Vice President: G Spicer; Treasurer: F Rich; Secretary: F Gunn; Providore: B Protheroe; Patron: M Owens. We wish to congratulate the incoming Committee. Our Club has many volunteers & thank you for your time given. Reminder that Club Memberships were due 1st January.

and a special thank you to the bar and kitchen staff to ensure the day was a great success.

John Hocking Day will be Saturday May 20th, details will be advised in due course. Club Championship book for 2023 is now open and will close at 4pm Monday March 6th, with the draw to be done after the Men’s Section Committee meeting. Anyone interested in playing bowls, either for the first time or returning to the game, contact David White on 0407 630 759. Follow Mossman Bowls Club Men’s Section on Facebook or se3e the website www.mossmanbowlsclub.com.au.

WEST CAIRNS LADIES

Wednesday February 22nd social bowls we had a good roll up of ladies who all had a great afternoon. Social bowls are on every Wednesday start-

EDGE HILL BOWLS CLUB

Ladies Bowls: Social bowls for Thursday February 23rd:

Winners: Beth Gray, Yvonne Bolton and Terri McAlary; R/up: Lorraine King, Elaine Whitehead and Margaret Wardrop. Ladies, please note the time change for your names to be in by 1pm for a 1:30pm start on Thursday March 2nd.

Men’s Bowls: Singles, Pairs, Triples and Fours draw for 2023 have been published on Facebook. Check the notice board for draws and arrange your games ASAP. Remember that all entrants must be financial members to be eligible for these Club Events. Saturday 25th February Social Bowls Winners: Gary Pomroy and Elaine Whitehead; R/up: Barry Bolton and Wayne Hunter.

Cairns High School year 12

Men’s Self Select 3 Bowl Triples, cash prizes plus jackpot, visitors welcome. Nominations close 11.30 am for play at 12.30pm contact Don Stewart on 0427 816 894. Nominations for 2023 Club Championship A & B Grade Singles, Fours and Triples now open and close on Monday March 6th, forms in office.

MILLAA MILLAA GOLF

Play for last weekend was washed out. Next week: 3 Ball Modified Stableford for new players.

Each team will have an experienced club member with them to advise and assist the team but will not be playing. Each player will have a mulligan allowed on each hole and clean misses will not be counted, there will be no handicaps and will be played over 9 holes.

The day is free, all equipment is supplied, and the club has gone out of its way to make the day a success. So come and give golf a go, ladies. Be at the club around 1 pm Saturday as it will take a while to sort out the teams, but we should be back in the club just after three.

Hit the road to raise cash for COUCH

l CAIRNS | NICK DALTON

ATHLETES are being urged to combine fitness with fundraising for a well-regarded charity as part of the Cairns Airport Ironman 70.3 Cairns in June.

The Cairns Organisation United for Cancer Health, better known as COUCH, is once again the charity partner of the event.

COUCH events and partnerships officer Bec Dent said the event was a favourite of athletes, “participating in one of Australia’s greatest sporting events, in one of the best locations in the world”.

Wild mountain bikers get cranking for 2023

l CAIRNS

| NICK DALTON

THE elite mountain biking event, Crankworx, is returning to the Far North after a successful debut last year.

The Smithfield Mountain Park Bike Park will be the second stop on the Crankworx World Tour from May 17-21, 2023.

In 2022, Cairns made its mark on the world tour as ‘The Paradise Edition’, with the world’s best mountain biking athletes making their way across the globe to experience the Reef, wildlife, and adrenalin activities that the region offers, while also sending it on the world class tracks.

It injected an estimated $7.7 million into the economy last year.

Cairns MP Michael Healy said Crankworx Cairns was backed by the Palaszczuk Labor government because it brought thousands of interstate and overseas visitors to Cairns.

“It’s fantastic to have Crankworx back in Cairns for 2023 after last year’s hugely successful Australian debut in Tropical North

Queensland. We know many visitors here for Crankworx in 2022 extended their stay to explore more of Tropical North Queensland’s unforgettable tourism experiences.”

Tourism Tropical North Queensland chief executive Mark Olsen said Crankworx was a gamechanger that would position Tropical North Queensland as an internationally renowned mountain biking destination.

“The inaugural Cairns Crankworx last year showcased the destination and its world-class mountain biking infrastructure to hundreds of thousands of people around the world,”he said.

“We are looking forward to welcoming the athletes and their fans back to Cairns to enjoy mountain biking in the world’s oldest rainforest and a holiday taking in the Great Barrier Reef and our ancient Indigenous culture.”

Cairns Mayor Bob Manning said he was looking forward to seeing Crankworx Cairns return in May.

“We are expecting 12,500 attendees from international, national and local markets to descend on Crankworx Cairns for a week of

world class racing, with riders bringing even more excitement to the region with their array of aerial acrobatics,” he said.

The top 16 slopestyle athletes in the world will be competing, offering the only chance for

Aussies to see these elite athletes in the flesh as they pull out all the stops for precious Crankworx points.

Riders and sports fans will enjoy watching athletes such as Caroline Buchanan, the Queen of Crankworx title holder from 2022 who said: “I am hyped for 2023. The Crankworx World Tour is my main passion and love.

“I am most excited to compete on Aussie soil again in Cairns and see all the kids back competing in Cairns who were taking it all in this year and inspired to compete at their first Crankworx. Inspire and be inspired. Let’s go,” she said.

Events in the works include slopestyle, downhill, dual slalom, speed and style, pump track, and whip-off, among others.

For more information and to buy a festival pass go to: www.crankworx.com/cairns

“We invite competitors to join in the action, whether as an athlete participating for Team COUCH in Ironman70.3 Cairns, joining in the 5km COUCH charity fun run during Ironman Festival Week or by volunteering,” she said.

“Funds raised from your participation and fundraising activities will support the health and wellbeing of Far North Queenslanders impacted by cancer.

“We appreciate this opportunity to be associated with such an incredible event, and the support that is shown to us by the Ironman Group team.

“They truly do care about our region and giving back to the community. It’s not just the economic benefits they bring through sport tourism, but their incredible philanthropic values.

“We are so appreciative of this opportunity to be their charity partner. They go above and beyond to ensure we can maximise our fundraising potential and exposure.

“They also organise the COUCH charity fun run, which takes place as an official Ironman Festival event on the Friday morning of race week (June 16).”

Ms Dent said each year COUCH was allocated a certain

number of team and individual “fundraising entries” to the event.

“This year, we are doing things a little differently. We are offering free registrations to our fundraising individuals and teams if they sign up before Monday, March 6 and commit to raising a minimum $2000 as an individual participant and $3000 as a team,” she said.

Taking part again is Adhesive director Vanessa Allen.

“I started 2022 wanting to set a goal that was going to be difficult to achieve, and given that I have never been a runner and not even athletic when I was at school, I thought, what better than to set a challenging fitness goal,” she said.

“The other motivation is that I would get to help COUCH by fundraising along the journey.

“The feeling of crossing the finishing line with my team was incredibly uplifting and emotional ...”

Jo Brierley of Team ‘First at the Wrong End’ is also back again for the fifth time.

“This is the fifth year that I have been part of a COUCH team, I am humbled by the donations from family and friends and knowing that every time I do up my laces for this event will help so many other people,” she said.

To get behind Team COUCH as a sponsor or volunteer, or to participate in the Ironman 70.3 Cairns for COUCH email Ms Dent at info@couch.org.au

German slopestyle superstar Erik Fedko at last year’s Crankworx at Smithfield. Picture: SUPPLIED

Vanessa Allen at last year’s event.

Paul Brierley, Joanne Brierley and Kushla Phillips running for COUCH in last year’s Ironman