CAIRNS would get cheaper energy options and more public sector jobs under Labor’s plan to establish a publicly-owned energy retailer.
Premier Steven Miles said this week that if elected, his government would introduce the new retailer across the state, which would bring vital competition to regional areas relying solely on Ergon.
“It’s simple – people before profits. That’s my guarantee to Queenslanders,” he said in a statement on Wednesday.
“I will establish a publicly owned energy retailer for our state to deliver the cheaper power prices Queenslanders deserve.”
He said the retailer would support public sector jobs throughout the state, especially in regional hubs like Mackay, Townsville and Cairns. The move is the first part of Premier Steven Miles’ Cheaper Energy Plan which will also provide more options in solar and community battery pricing models.
Already, wholesale prices in Queensland are lower than the mainland average price in the national electricity markets. CONTINUED PAGE 2
Cairns Meals on Wheels head chef Dion Patel and chef Robert Gardner are excited for a new and bigger kitchen in Gatton St.
Picture: Isabella Guzman Gonzalez
Accomodation precinct taking flight at Cairns Airport
l AEROGLEN
| Andree Stephens
A PURPOSE-BUILT accommodation precinct was officially launched at the Cairns Airport last week, promising construction of 183 self-contained units and amenities to begin over the coming months.
The $60 million “SkyHaven” Serviced Apartments project is being developed on 10,046m2 of land within the airport’s business precinct and is aimed at addressing the region’s critical shortage of quality, short-term accommodation.
Leading Cairns-based property developer MiHaven, through its subsidiary Tropical Airport Accommodation Pty Ltd (TAA), secured a long-term lease from Cairns Airport to develop the precinct, which will cater to a range of industry and community requirements, including much-needed accommodation for skilled workers.
Stages 1 and 2 will include construction of 183 self-contained units, as well as amenities such as meeting and conference spaces, a café, two swimming pools and outdoor entertainment areas.
Stage 3 is earmarked for over 200 student accommodation beds, servicing the needs of Cairns
Queensland University’s airportbased pilot training school and Aviation Australia’s aviation engineering school, also based at Cairns Airport.
Cairns Airport Chief Executive Officer Richard Barker said the project will help local industries grow their operations, and strengthen the capabilities of key community providers, such as health services.
“We have heard from various organisations and sectors that there is a desperate need for more short-term worker accommodation in our region. This precinct has been strategically planned to assist businesses across Tropical North Queensland, including those based at Cairns Airport,” he said.
The first stages are expected to be complete in 2026. Mihaven directors James and Sarah Mort attended the launch and were delighted to have the chance to develop a “truly Cairns-based project.”
“All consultants and contractors are being deployed locally from Cairns, it is Cairns through and through and is directly investing more than $60 million into our economy,” Mr Mort said.
“We have received overwhelming response to date, even before we could make this project public,” he said.
FROM PAGE 1
A state-wide publicly owned retailer will ensure the benefits from these lower wholesale prices are passed on to Queensland households and businesses. For renters, the publicly owned energy retailer would
also make it easier to access the benefits of rooftop solar through community batteries.
The Premier said the moves were in line with earlier relief this year when Queensland household has received $1,000 off their energy bill paid in one lump sum which for vulnerable
New housing launch
Labor commits to new QLD public energy retailer
households, lifted to $1,372 in total energy bill rebates.
It was also in line with the 2024 State Budget which locked in $26 billion towards renewable energy projects.
Deputy Premier Cameron
Dick said a Labor Government was also committed to deliv-
ering the Pioneer Burdekin Pumped Hydro Project, “which will unlock the true potential of the state’s renewable energy sector and safeguard our manufacturing industry for decades to come”.
He said the LNP energy plan was “shrouded in secrecy”.
“David Crisafulli voted to privatise our electricity assets, and he has declared to replace the Pioneer Burdekin Pumped Hydro project with small hydro plants,” he said.
“But (he) refuses to reveal how many, or where, his small pumped hydro plants will be built.”
Mihaven directors James and Sarah Mort. Picture: Supplied
Brothers call for funding to get next development over the line
Football for all seasons
l MANUNDA
| Andree Stephens
THE two-storey structure looms over the field, promising a football hub for the whole community, but there is more to be done to complete the Stan Williams Park development.
On target for opening in April next year, stage 1, at $12 million, has been fully funded by Brothers Leagues Club and will provide a wide range of community sports for all seasons. But stage 2, an additional $6 million, needs Government backing.
Tim Rumford, the clubs head of football, oversees coaches, seniors and juniors, and everything in between. He is passionate about the depth of community programs run by Brothers.
Watching the winding up of a practice session with the allabilities rugby league players on Field 1 at the park last week, Tim said the new venue and both stages of the development would, “allow us to do more of this” he nods to the motley crew of players finishing up their training.
The complex will feature an indoor and outdoor gym, with air conditioning, a theatre room, offices, conference rooms, change rooms, and rooms for medical treatment such as physiotherapy. Stage 2 would bring in more seating and shade and make use of the large grounds of the Park.
“Now these guys can train all year round, rain or shine, they will never have to miss a session and they love routine,” Tim said. “I expect it to grow and grow.”
‘These guys’ are a huge success story for Brothers. It began with about seven people, and a “couple of support people”, coming down to the club to take part in rugby league activities, Tim explained. After the COVID shutdown, it came back bigger and stronger, with “fantastic assistance from Arc Disability Services”.
“We brought in Jordan Biondi-Odo, as the Engagement Officer, and as you’ve seen today, about 30 players have turned
up. Some are from the Endeavour Foundation, who are also on board, and some are independent with family support.
“We have calendared at least one game a year where they have a full 13-a-side game and that’s usually before an A grade game. It has a big crowd and it’s a highlight of the season, the allabilities game.”
For Tim, personally, the community aspect of Brothers Leagues Club, as a not-forprofit group, is the “dead set the
right thing to do”.
“Brothers understands their role in their community, it’s not corporate outcomes, but community outcomes we want,” he said. “Whether it’s the football club or delivering programs like this.”
Club chairman Stephen Widt said the progress of the new facilities, which began in March this year, was proof that Brothers puts the work in before putting its hand out.
“We’ve invested $12 million
into Stage 1, and we are now seeking support for Stage 2, and importantly, both stages become 100 per cent community owned,” he said.
“Stage 2 is fully designed and shovel-ready,” Stephen continued, “and we have strong written support from major community stakeholders.”
Both Labor and LNP have been down to the park, have the background, and now it’s a matter of who will stump up the extra funds.
Cairns annual report ‘one for the record books’
l CAIRNS REGION
THE 2023/24 financial year brought with it the heartbreaking devastation of a recordbreaking flood, the awarding of Council’s biggest ever contract, and three different mayors.
But in tabling its Annual Report on Wednesday, the council delivered some positive actions throughout the year.
In the report’s opening state-
ment Mayor Amy Eden acknowledged that the year had brought its “fair share of challenges” but was also a year of progress and resilience.
This was illustrated by key highlights such as the $137 million investment in infrastructure, which directly added 312 local construction jobs and indirectly supported another 800.
The Cairns Water Security Strategy Stage 1 design and construction was awarded to
John Holland Queensland in December 2023 and design work has commenced.
In collaboration with Tourism Events Queensland and Tourism Tropical North Queensland, council assisted in the delivery of three major sporting events –the UCI Masters Mountain Bike World Championships, Crankworx Cairns and IRONMAN Cairns – which injected $23.6 million into the local economy.
In other activities, the North-
ern Beaches Leisure Trail from Kewarra Beach to Clifton Beach was completed; recommendations from the Babinda Boulders Safety Audit were implemented, including installation of updated signage on the dangers of the waterway; a Public Space Safety team was activated, using suburban patrols to identify and act upon matters of antisocial, illegal or undesirable behaviours; and the Cairns Gallery Precinct progressed with the
refurbishment of the Mulgrave Gallery on the Esplanade into a gallery.
Mayor Eden said that throughout the year, council delivered 71 per cent of the 28 initiatives outlined in the Operational Plan 2023/24, with the remaining 29 per cent being addressed in a business-as-usual program.
“We’ve ensured that every dollar spent creates a ripple effect, driving a total economic impact of $907 million,” she said.
Junior players Ash Trundle, and Lakyn Trundle test out the grounds with A-graders coach and captain Jordan Biondi-Odo and Ernest Suavai.
Picture: Andree Stephens
Machans festival shines
l FAR NORTH
| Isaac Colman
USUALLY a quiet beachside getaway, the Northern Cairns’ suburb of Machans Beach drew locals and visitors alike to the colourful Moon Over Machans festival at Keith Edward Park last Saturday.
Marking 20 years since the first Moon Over Machans event, the return of the popular day featured plenty of market stalls, such as the Machans Beach Community Association bric-a-brac and treasures stall, or the local school P&C stick-on tattoo booth, arts and crafts displays, food and drinks stands, acrobat workshops, and other exhibits.
As evening approached, the celebrations continued with kids’ novelty races, a kids talent quest, and performances from the Machans Beach State School orchestra, local duo Wind and Wood, a Taiko band,
a local rock band and an amazing Latin dance troupe.
Moon Over Machans organiser Mark Herridge said the event was a great way for the community to recover after major flooding of the suburb in December last year.
“We understand that Cyclone Jasper affected people all over North Queensland,” Mr Herridge said. “There are still shells of houses in Machans today.”
Fittingly, Machans Beach’s local State Emergency Service team, whose headquarters are next to the park, made a happier appearance in the community with its own exhibit and stall at the market.
“(Residents) are ready for a celebration after the devastation caused by Jasper, which directly affected nearly half the community and indirectly affected us all.” For more photos of the event, see our story online - www.cairnslocalnews.com.au
Urban push for vibrant city
Social and economic livability is key focus for CBD ‘infill’ housing plan
l CAIRNS CBD
| Andree Stephens
A PLAN to breathe fresh life into the Cairns CBD would not be another of case of ‘change for change’s sake’ but an economic and social process to improve public space and liveability.
Speaking at Wednesday’s Cairns Regional Council meet-
ing, Cr Rob Pyne said the Cairns City Precinct Urban Regeneration Project was a wellplanned examination of infill opportunities and public space improvements for vibrant inner city living.
“There’s a lot of discussion about the problems in the Cairns CBD at the moment. I think everyone agrees that an increased inner-city population, a residential population, is
going to address a lot of those economic and social problems the CBD has,” Cr Pyne said. “I’m quite confident that, looking at the report, it won’t be another case of change for change’s sake. We had the fountains in the middle of the CBD, we had the performance space, the toadstool, and of course it is what it is now, mainly public transport, but I’m really excited to see this
going forward.”
The six-month project, unanimously carried at the meeting, aims to stimulate infill housing by incorporating quality public spaces, urban canopy, resilience and hazard mitigation, improved connectivity, walkability, economic and social vibrancy, and the reflection of the community’s diversity.
Mayor Amy Eden, said al-
ready, changes such as dogs being permitted in the CBD, and fishing allowed on the Esplanade had improved the sense of place for residents.
The project will also include two neighbouring precincts – the major events centre (Barlow Park and Cairns Showgrounds) and the health precinct (Cairns Hospital and JCU Health and Innovation Precinct), including a roadmap
of costed projects and policy recommendations. Council has awarded SMEC Australia the $448,000 contract to lead and coordinate the reparation and delivery of the Cairns City Precincts Urban Regeneration Project, funded by the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communication and the Arts under the Housing Support Program.
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Coming from their headquarters located on the grounds of the venue, Machans Beach’s local State Emergency Service team (L-R) Michael, John, Chantal, Janet, Tania and Richard made their return once again as one of the various exhibitors present at last Saturday’s Moon Over Machans Festival. Picture: Isaac Colman
Police helicopter takes off
High-tech chopper will be ‘eye in the sky’ for Cairns and the region
l CAIRNS REGION
A NEW police helicopter will begin servicing the Cairns area this month to provide police with more operational capability.
Complete with high-tech camera system with infrared, moving map and vehicle tracking, the helicopter will add to police law enforcement
efforts, allow for quicker incident responses and ultimately keep the community safe.
Meridian Helicopters is the successful contractor for the job, which will run for one year while a permanent POLAIR resource is acquired.
On board, a pilot, a police camera operator and police observer work together to assist crews on the ground. The state-of-the-art helicopter
will cover Cairns and the Far Northern Region, being able to fly long distances in short periods.
“We’re continuing to provide frontline police officers with advanced technology and equipment to enable a high quality of service to the community,” Police Minister Mark Ryan said. “I know this new chopper will make a big difference in keeping communi-
ties safe across the far north.”
The additional aerial support will bolster Queensland’s POLAIR fleet, making it the largest aerial police capability in Australia.
“The new Cairns police helicopter enhances community safety by providing rapid aerial support, enabling police to track offenders and missing persons with advanced technology,” Labor candidate for
$5m for new MoW premises
With the Barlow Park upgrade, the not-for-profit – which runs its operation out of a commercial kitchen at Barlow Park – had to be relocated and were eager to have a facility solely for them which state government and the council committed to doing.
Cairns MoW general manager Chris Van Dorssen said this facility would breathe new life into the organisation.
“Our move to the new facility marks a significant chapter for Cairns MoW,” he said.
“It allows us to expand our services and reach even more clients across the Far North. With the legacy created by the Barlow Park Olympic upgrade, we’ll be equipped to continue providing over 5000 meals each week in a state-of-the-art environment,
Have your say on Arts and Culture
ensuring we meet the growing demand.
“This is a wonderful building where we’ll be able to look after as many people as we need and especially when there’s emergency we can help people, not just the people we take care of but the whole community, so it’s a great legacy that we’ll receive from this redevelopment.
“This building also means we could probably increase our meal output by threefold and it gives us more space to have two chefs, this building is built for the next 20 years and we will be able to supply meals for our aging population.”
Member for Cairns Michael Healy said it was crucial to support MoW as a service who does so much for the most vulnerable in the community.
“I want to acknowledge the
MoW team and Chris Van Dorssen who are feeding over 800 people a day throughout our region, and we know that while our city grows it’s important to ensure that the infrastructure grows with those volunteers and make sure they have the best,” he said.
“I’m very pleased to announce that as part of the $91 million upgrade happening in Barlow Park we will be relocating MoW and I want to acknowledge the work we’ve made with Cairns Regional Council, this will be a purpose-built city that will cater to the demands of our growing city and allow the workers of MoW to provide a more efficient service.”
The new MoW facility on Gatton St covers 1762m2 and will provide the not-for-profit with a space for decades to come.
Council News Update
Council is updating our Culture and the Arts Strategy and needs your input to ensure the new plan is tailored to needs in line with regional growth.
Have Your Say via our online survey or at the Palm Cove markets on Sunday 6 October. }cairns.qld.gov.au/feedback
Feedback on pathways
We’re seeking feedback on how to make pedestrian access in your neighbourhood better.
The Neighbourhood Pathways Program will help us prioritise key pathways for improvement in the 2025/26 financial year. Whether it’s a new neighbourhood loop, a missing footpath link, pram ramp or better access to bus stops, we want to hear from you.
Head to Council’s website to provide your thoughts by 1 November.
Improvement works
Marsh St, Earlville: Kerb and channel renewal between Casella St and Mulgrave Rd. Lane closures and traffic control as required.
}For all works underway, see Council’s website, cairns.qld.gov.au
Does your pool meet safety standards?
Do you own a pool or spa?
Under Queensland’s pool safety laws, you must construct and maintain a fence around your pool or spa that meets the pool safety standard.
You must also get a Pool Safety Certificate if you are selling or leasing your property.
All residential pools and spas must also be registered with the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC).
For more about pool safety, visit the Council website or the QBCC website at www.qbcc.qld.gov.au
Mulgrave, Richie Bates said. “This means faster responses to protect residents and reduce crime.”
Premier Steven Miles, in signing the contract this week, said the helicopter “strengthens modern policing efforts in Cairns, offering unmatched aerial surveillance and coordination, improving law enforcement’s ability to safeguard the community”.
“Today, we sign the contract to get that eye in the sky by mid-October. We’ve already seen a promising reduction in youth offences across the first six months of the year –down 12 per cent in Far North Queensland compared to the same period in 2023,” he said. “Now is the time to stay the course, to back our Police and give them the tools they need to keep Queenslanders safe.”
Spring Orchid Show
the region's most stunning spring orchids in full bloom
demonstrations & advice from experts
orchids for sale eautiful
10 OctSaturday 12 Oct 9am - 5pm Centre Court
Member for Cairns Michael Healy, candidate for Mulgrave Richie Bates, Member for Barron River Craig Crawford and Meals on Wheels catering assistant Jackie Whitelock discussing the new facility in the Meals on Wheels kitchen at Barlow Park. Picture: Isabella Guzman Gonzalez
New cat for operator
Charter company gets $1.6m grant for boat and lifting system
l PORT DOUGLAS
| Gary ‘Gazza’ McIlroy TWO-time Tripadvisor winner of Australia’s best experience, Port Douglas’s ABC Snorkel Charters, has received $1.6 million Growing Future Tourism funding to double its fleet with a new $3.5 million custom-built catamaran to offer more exclusive, small group sustainable Reef tours.
The tourism venture will also use the grant to buy a new Airberth Boat Lift system to assist with berthing and maintenance.
ABC Snorkel Charters managing director Jay Wink thanked the Queensland Government “for supporting us in the purchase of our new catamaran and boat lift system”.
“This partnership will allow us to share the beauty and wonder of the Great Barrier Reef with more visitors who are also interested in ensuring their visit adds to reef protection and environmental awareness,” he said.
Member for Cook Cynthia Lui said “ABC Snorkel Charters’ commitment to sustainable tourism and environmental protection on the Great Barrier Reef has earned it rave reviews from its guests”.
“Port Douglas is a worldfamous tourist destination and a gateway to the World Heritagelisted Reef and rainforest. It’s great to see this support for our local operators,” she said.
Kids sun shade funding
l NORTH QUEENSLAND
UP TO $25,000 will be made available to not-for-profit organisations to build permanent shade covers to protect Northern Queensland youngsters.
Cancer Council Queensland and Queensland Health are delivering the ‘SunSmart Shade Creation’ Initiative, a funding program open to state primary and secondary schools, junior sporting clubs and community childcare facilities operating in the north and west of the state.
Local research shows children born and raised in the north develop pigmented moles earlier, and in higher numbers, than children living in places with less solar UV such as Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne. The more moles developed early, the greater the risk of adult malignant melanoma.
“Fixed shade structures are crucial in ensuring kids are safe from the harmful effects of UV,” Cancer Council Queensland’s manager in prevention and early detection Sharyn Chin Fat said.
Four ecotourism projects across the state will share in the $15m second round of Growing Future Tourism funding. Projects also include a new resort on Hook Island, a luxury Granite Belt vineyard experience and a Gold Coast farm stay. They are expected to leverage almost $46m in private investment, supporting an estimated 187 jobs during planning and construction and 171 ongoing operational jobs.
visitors each year who’ll spend an additional $60.7m.
Due for completion in March 2027, the four projects are also expected to attract 95,000 extra
“The four projects to be successful this round will deliver outstanding experiences that vary from exclusive, high-end reef tours in Port Douglas to family friendly farm stays on the Gold Coast,” he said.
Tourism Minister Michael Healy said “Growing Future Tourism is focused on supporting the development of new and enhanced infrastructure and experiences that will make Queensland Australia’s destination of choice for world class experiences by 2032”.
“Skin cancer is one of the most common but also one of the most preventable cancers. Our research shows having adequate access to shade while at school and during sports activities, makes a big difference.”
Funding applications are open until 22 November 2024 via: https://bit.ly/3ZIhUwM
Tourism and Sport Minister Michael Healy (left) announcing funding in Port Douglas, alongside ABC-Snorkel Charters managing director Jay Wink and Member for Cook Cynthia Lui. Picture: Gary ‘Gazza’ McIlroy
Fresh look for Tully centre
l TULLY
WITH new garden beds, landscaping and accessibility upgrades, the completed first stage of the Banyan and Butler Street Beautification Project has added vibrancy and improved pedestrian safety to Tully’s CBD.
The project, begun in May this year, created new garden beds along Butler Street to improve pedestrian safety and visibility, and landscaping at Banyan Park to attract visitors to the iconic Golden Gumboot.
Mayor Teresa Millwood said the initial phase of the project had already made a noticeable difference to the visual appeal and functionality of Butler Street.
“The new garden beds, featuring native local plants, will remain vibrant and sustainable throughout the year,” she said.
“The newly designed gumboot plaza in Banyan Park is a key highlight, offering improved visual appeal and accessibility, along with enhanced landscaping, interpretive signs, and lighting.”
Looking ahead, the Council will continue collaborating with the community and businesses on future stages of the Banyan Park Beautification Project.
Stage One of the Banyan and Butler Street Beautification Project was jointly funded by the Queensland Government’s Works for Queensland program.
CCRC apprentice investment
Six new full-time
workers join council after local, ‘hands-on’ training
l CASSOWARY COAST
FOUR apprentices at Cassowary Coast Regional Council who have completed their training have joined the Water and Wastewater Services team as full-time employees. They join another two apprentices who became full-time employees at the Council earlier in the year.
Mayor Teresa Millwood congratulated the newcomers and said it was a significant milestone in their careers and in the Council’s commitment to fostering local talent. “It has been such great news, to see so many of our apprentices
move into full-time positions at Council,” she said.
Melakye Viti (Mechanical Fitter), Aiden Day (Plumber), Craig Machan (Plumber), and Adric Gorman (Plumber) began their apprenticeships in 2021 through a partnership with Group Training Organisation, Community Solutions Group.
The group agreed that the learning opportunities and hands-on experience they received, as well as the teamwork and healthy work life balance were key factors in their decision.
“Our programs offer hands-on experience, skill development, and a pathway to future success within our community,” Mayor
Millwood said.
“We deeply value ‘growing our own’ talent within the region, and we are committed to cultivating the future leaders of our community.
“By investing in local apprenticeships and training programs, we have and continue to ensure that we nurture and develop the skills and potential of our workforce.”
Cassowary Coast Regional Council continues to offer apprenticeship opportunities annually, with the next round currently open. For more information on apprenticeship opportunities with Cassowary Coast Regional Council, please visit https://bit.ly/4eIdl9U
Mayor Teresa Millwood and Councillor Ellen Jessop at Banyan Park. Picture: Supplied
Apprentices (L-R) Flynn Rowe, Aiden Day, Adric Gorman, Kaiden McKenzie, Craig Machan and Melakye Viti all secured full time employment. Picture: Cassowary Coast Regional Council
State election2024
Call to action Council needs your lobbying help
l FAR NORTH
| Andree Stephens
ENDING the disparities in flood assistance, improving sporting facilities, assisting in housing growth in the southern corridor, and showcasing local tourist spots are key items on the Cairns Regional Council’s election wish list.
And it needs the community to rally behind it in a bid to lock in commitments from all sides of politics.
“This is a Call to Action; read the document on our website, go to our facebook, look at all side of politics,” Cr Brett Moller said in a council meeting this week.
“We have the least amount of funding in Queensland, it’s a very modest ask compared to others.” Council is advocating for commitments on nine key projects (which were unanimously endorsed in July) that would pave the way for future growth and development.
“These projects and initiatives will enhance the community and safeguard our city’s prosperity,” Mayor Amy Eden said.
While council had been actively engaging with government members, candidates, ministers and shadow ministers, she urged voters to ask questions of all candidates to see where they
stand on these issues.
“Have a look at website, have a look at our facebook, find out what are all of the ‘asks’. We want to see all sides making a commitment. We need people out there, not just in here, to see that these jobs get done.”
Among the ‘asks’ are:
• A $14 million commitment from Barron River candidates to expand the trail network at the Smithfield Mountain Bike Park to match a pledge made by the LNP last month.
• A high-performance facility within the Major Events Precinct next to Barlow Park, as well as providing funding for the Major Events Precinct Masterplan.
• New signage for Palm Cove on the Captain Cook Highway, to mark one of the city’s iconic tourist destinations.
• A push to secure more than $12.3 million in funding for community amenity, including $5 million to expand sporting facilities at the Redlynch Community Sporting Precinct, $4 million to design and build the Cairns Community and Multicultural Centre in White Rock, $1.46 million for further improvements to Jeff Pezzutti Park in Woree, and $1.85 million to enrich leisure facilities in the Smithfield/Trinity Park area.
• A call for a Priority Devel-
opment Area (PDA) to be declared over the Mount Peter Southern Growth Corridor – an area that had been languishing since 2018 - to fast-track development and infrastructure delivery.
• A commitment from the State Government, in conjunction with the Federal Government (where appropriate), to address gaps in the Tropical Cyclone Jasper funding arrangements.
Deputy Mayor Cr Brett Olds said while grateful for disaster funds in the region, there were serious discrepancies in what was allocated across the state.
He referred to the Category D funding for repairing community assets, such as playgrounds and other community infrastructure, which was provided to local government “down south” but not in Far North Queensland.
“We’ve been treated differently,” he said.
The lack of funding for repairs to foreshores, Lake Placid and other areas, had not been provided and had put a “$25 million hole in our budget”.
Similarly, funding assistance for businesses and householders to restore buildings to a more resilient standard, instead of like for like, had also been rolled out further south, but not here.
“This is an issue that has to be raised.”
LNP’s turtle rescue plan
l GREEN ISLAND
THE Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre would get a new home on Green Island under a $600,000 commitment by the LNP announced this week.
Speaking in Cairns on Monday, LNP Leader David Crisafulli said the $600,000 commitment to build the new centre was part of the LNP’s Supporting Wildlife, Preserving our Environment policy.
The project would build upon the vital work being done by the Cairns Turtle
Rehabilitation Centre, led by Dr Jenny Gilbert, which protects, rescues and rehabilitates turtles as they recover from disease or serious injury caused by ingesting marine debris, entanglement in fishing nets or being struck by a boat.
“The LNP’s commitment to the Green Island Turtle Rehabilitation Centre will save endangered turtles, boost conservation and protection for the Great Barrier Reef and enhance our world-leading marine research efforts,” Mr Crisafulli said.
“This commitment will boost scientific research
into turtle diseases and injuries and provide critical training opportunities for marine veterinarians, marine biologists and ecologists.” LNP Candidate for Cairns Yolonde Entsch said the project would cement Far North Queensland as a world leading voice in marine science.
“Not only will the LNP’s support of this project support conservation, it will also provide world-leading research opportunities and the chance for the next generation of scientists to get hands-on training,” Ms Entsch said.
With the State Election coming up on 26 October, you’re likely to see and hear a lot of things–especially on social media.
The ECQ is the expert authority that Queenslanders can trust.
Stop and consider whether the information is factual before you share it.
You can do this by asking yourself “Is it reputable, current, or a scam?”
State Election 26 October
Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre’s Dr Jenny Gilbert, Sam O’Connor MP, Shadow Minister for the Environment and Great Barrier Reef, David Crisafulli MP, Leader of the Opposition and Yolonde Entsch, LNP
Candidate for Cairns. Picture: Supplied
will cast their
Saturday, October 26 for who they want to represent them in the state parliament.
Queensland Governor, Dr Jeannette Young A.C., issued the official writ on Tuesday and the election battle proper begins.
Electoral Commissioner, Pat Vidgen, said the election is an opportunity for voters to have their say on what counts to them and he is encouraging people to check up on their enrolment details, or to enrol for the first time, especially those who will be turning 18 before October 26.
Nominations for candidates were also now officially open as of 9am Tuesday and will close on October 8.
Mr Vidgen said registered political parties, associated entities, groups and individuals must also meet obligations, which they can find in detail at the website.
People will also have more options to cast their vote through postal voting, and in person during extended hours from 8am to 6pm on weekdays, from October 14 to October 25 at any early voting centre in Queensland. Early voting centre and election day polling booth locations are available on www.ecq.qld.gov.au/ or by calling 1300 881 665.
State election
$14M for biking trail
LNP promises upgrade for Smithfield’s world-class track
l SMITHFIELD
| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez
THE Smithfield Mountain Biking Trail could see a $14 million upgrade if an LNP government is elected this October.
Aiming to boost ecotourism in FNQ, the LNP has committed $14 million as part of the Right Plan for Queensland’s Future and will upgrade the current trails to over 85 kilometres of world class biking and hiking tracks which can be used year-round.
If upgraded, it’s estimated the track could attract 75,000 riders annually which would also present a significant boost to the local economy.
LNP candidate for Barron River Bree James said the Smithfield Mountain Biking Trail upgrade was part of their focus on working harder for Queenslanders, which she claims under Labor was heading in the wrong direction.
“This upgrade will benefit thousands of local mountain bike riders, get families out and
about and attract national and international biking events, bringing millions into the local economy,” Ms James said.
“Labor’s failures have overseen $20 billion-plus in project cost blowouts that could have instead delivered grassroots infrastructure like the Smithfield Mountain Biking Trail upgrade.
“Queenslanders must show Labor the door in 2024, to ensure the right focus on delivering the programs, services and communities for our state,” she said.
Shadow Minister for Environment and the Great Barrier Reef Sam O’Connor said the LNP’s plan would revitalise FNQ’s eco-tourism offering and showcase the region’s natural assets.
“The LNP will restore a government that works for you, with the Right Plan for Queensland’s Future,” Mr O’Connor said.
“The Smithfield Mountain Biking Trail upgrade will transform Cairns into one of the world’s top mountain biking destinations.”
Barron River candidate Bree James with MP Sam O’Connor, Shadow Minister for the Environment and Great Barrier Reef and supporters of the bike trail. Picture: Supplied
Lettersto the editor
Chelsea Scanlan, Cairns Wangetti parking
Julie Montan, Manoora Fluoride ‘stance’
Fran Clayton, Woree Election issues
Ross Freeman, Palm Cove Fluoride choices
I waited 2 hours in an ambulance then in the corridor to get admitted after a severe car accident. Staff are lovely though.
- Cecile Wilson, Facebook
I have had maybe 10 visits over the past 8 years with very mixed results.
- Narrell Jodie, Facebook
Was very good, didn’t have to wait too long to be seen and was treated well. We had visitors who took their young son in as he had a very high temperature and he was seen quickly and the feedback was excellent and much better than they have received in Melbourne.
- TomTom Michael, Facebook
I have driven away to let a sick kid rest at home rather than have them wait there 6 hours - which was our choice as “24 hour” clinic had closed and sent us away to hospital as best advice.
- Paul Spray, Facebook
Went in on Thursday to be seen waited 6 hrs to be told that I wasn’t even on the wait list even after speaking to triage a couple times. After 8 hrs ended up going home not seeing a Dr and still another few hours to go before seeing one.
Last week’s question was: What has your experience of an emergency department in the Cairns region been like? Here are just some of your comments. publicly-owned energy retailer, and why?
- Nikki Danielle Penniment, Facebook
Amazing the staff and the facilities are great! Even under trying circumstances.
- Kate Fern, Facebook
Every time I’ve been there the wait time is at least 4 to 5 hrs, but I cannot fault the services of the clerical staff or the nursing staff. We do need more doctors on call at night, as when you have an emergency you can bet it’s at night when your local GP is closed.
- Julie Morris, Facebook
I feel so bad for them, they are so busy. We waited for 7 hours to get some stitches and X-rays for my son. They are worked off their feet, not enough staff, beds or resources. Once we got into treatment the staff were wonderful.
- Heather Marie, Facebook
My recent experience was fabulous, amazing staff and true professionalism. And the Hospital in the Home staff were truly appreciated during my recovery.
- Eddie Jensz, Facebook
Graham Maunder, Redlynch
Gazza’s Gossip
Sharks just love the Bucks
l MOSSMAN
I WAS, once again, fortunate enough to spend an evening at this year’s Mossman Rodeo. As in recent years, the weather was perfect and the crowds turned out in great numbers to support the event.
Apart from being a fun occasion, the evening is a great fundraiser for the Mossman Port Douglas Rugby League Club, better known, of course, as the Sharks.
Sometimes it is better to tell a story with pictures, so here are some of the amazing locals I bumped into.
I’m off to adjust my spurs, so for now it’s Gazza signing out!
Send your stories to gazza@cairnslocalnews.com.au
MEET THE FROCKERS
l MOSSMAN
MOSSMAN Support Services have a number of events and activities coming up in October.
Firstly, as a registered charity fundraiser for Frocktober, they will be raising monies to contribute toward Ovarian Cancer Research.
As a team named ‘Meet the Frockers’ they have committed to wearing a frock or fancy dress every day for the month of October with a goal to raise $2,500 for essential research into treatment of the disease.
The Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation (OCRF) is an independent fundraising body that is supported entirely by community efforts, so the good work they do is entirely based on the benevolence of fundraisers. This FUNdraising effort, whilst raising valuable cash, is also an opportunity to raise awareness for this important cause.
If anybody would like to donate to the ‘Meet the Frockers’ team, they can find them at https://bit.ly/3TUiCDp or through the Mossman Support Services Facebook page.
October is also Mental Health month and as part of the Black Dog Institutes “One Foot Forward” initiative, Mossman Support Services (Lifestyle Support) are inviting community members to join them for a morning walk every Tuesday and Friday from 8.30am for the month of October.
This walk is to help establish community connection and solidarity for the 1 in 5 Australians who experience mental illness each year. It is the team’s belief that ‘together we can show them they are not alone’ and nobody can really deny that.
Finally, on October 24th, Mossman Community Centre is hosting a Midday Movies with Mates at the Clink Theatre, with a screening of the film ‘June’. Tickets are $25 and include a beautiful casual lunch afterwards, provided by Port Douglas Smokehouse and Deli.
For anyone keen, attendees are invited to arrive at the historical Clink Theatre on Mowbray Street, Port Douglas at 10.30am for an 11am start time.
If you would like to register your attendance and purchase tickets, please call Mossman Support Services on 4098 2836 (opt. 1) or stop by and see them at 20 Mill Street, Mossman.
Mossman Support Services Dress For Frocktober. From L-R: Tahnee De Brueys, Rachel Foster, Trish Rayner, Heather McGillivray-Taylor, Jeanie Haydon, Therese Maloney, Erica Mast, Leiona Tofua. Picture: Supplied
A wide range of locals enjoyed the action at the Mossman Rodeo to support the Sharks (names unavailable). Picture: Supplied
Real Estate
GRAND LUXURY HOME
Wining and Dining
Exclusive menu for Oktoberfest draws a thousand
Hemingways wows the crowd
l CAIRNS WHARF
| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez
WITH specially crafted beers and an exclusive Oktoberfest menu full of classic German treats, Oktoberfest at Hemingway’s has once again wowed the community with great flavours and the best quality entertainment.
Approximately 1000 people went through the doors of Hemingway’s Brewery last Saturday to celebrate Oktoberfest with a cold frothy lager and a scrumptious Oktoberfest menu.
The food – which included schnitzels, pretzels, bratwursts, kranskys, potato dumplings and more – was so successful that the Hemingway’s team is considering adding pretzels to their classic menu.
“What went really crazy and I loved it because it reminds me of home – I’m from Munich – was that we sold over 500 pretzels on the day,” said Hemingway’s head of hospitality Roman Haslinger.
“Beer and pretzels belong together, it’s a match made in heaven, a soft and salty chewy pretzel with a refreshing beer just work, so nearly everybody who was here had a pretzel and it shows that people really understand Oktoberfest.
“Overall it was a great day, everybody had a lot of fun, the weather was great, the food was delicious, the beers were really good and despite our numbers being down a little bit compared to last year, the feedback has been great and we met expectations.
“We also sold a lot of bratwurst semmels – a bratwurst hot dog in a nice and crunchy roll –and our share platters were also very popular with a little taste of everything in the menu.
“Another crowd favourite was our fisch pflanzerl which is smoked salmon with potato cakes and a cabbage slaw with dill cream and my personal favourite was the pork belly with the potato dumplings with cabbage slaw on the side.
“What made me the proudest was the pretzels, which are made the traditional way and perfectly salted, and after this amazing result is highly likely that pretzels might end up being an everyday thing.
For Oktoberfest, Hemingway’s also crafted themed beers – the Schnappi Alt Bier, Regenwald Maerzen, Rauch Bier, Berliner Weisse –and the Grapefruit Radler, which was extremely popular and ran out on the day.
“We ran out of the Grapefuit Radler but to be fair we only had 150 litres of it,” Mr Haslinger said.
“Our Schnappi Alt Bier and the Regenwald Marzen are still available as a pack to purchase for the month of October.”
For more information, visit the Hemingway’s website.
Hemingway’s Oktoberfest share platter
with all of the delicious German treats on the menu. Inset top: Hemingway’s head of hospitality Roman Haslinger said the pork belly was his favourite dish of the Oktoberfest menu. Inset bottom: Schnitzels were an important addition to the Oktoberfest menu. Pictures: Supplied
Wining and Dining
Coffee and more to lift you
All-day menu combines classics and surprises
mushrooms to name a few.
THE perfect balance of Brazil-
espresso coffee is the signature drawcard to Lake Street’s newest Café Buoy, for lovers of coffee and more.
Located on the ground floor of the Cairns Corporate Tower, the licensed cafe/function venue is the city’s only cafe serving Allpress Espresso coffee – the espresso blend combines four origins in perfect balance producing a sweet chocolate and caramel finish.
The all-day breakfast and lunch menu includes a mix of classic favourites and some winning combinations the owners have fine-tuned over years of operating restaurants and cafe’s in regional Victoria, Queensland and, most recently, Tasmania.
They have a few surprises that have quickly become crowd favourites including a secret recipe sausage rolls, gluten-free carrot cake, New York reuben and thyme and garlic
They have a great range of grab and go meals for those on the move including fresh sandwiches, baguettes, salad bowls, granola and bircher muesli. House made treats include daily baked muffins, slices and cake selection.
The cafe interior design is inspired by mid-century modernism with comfortable booths perfect for meetings, interviews or simply catching up with friends. It has dedicated individual work spaces with power and wifi for anyone wishing to work offsite and enjoy coffee and food. It is also dog friendly in the outdoor dining area on Lake street.
A great range of platters for functions and events are on offer to local businesses or they can host an event or function in its beautiful space. Local beers on tap, and a great wine selection, spirits and a few cocktails complete the package.
Coffee Buoy is open from 6.30am until 3.00pm Monday to Friday.
Coffee Buoy, located on the ground floor of the Cairns Corporate Tower is open from 6.30am until 3.00pm Monday to Friday. Picture: Supplied
TimeOut
Gimuy festival connection
Saturday.
A jam-packed program to entwine with Shine
l CAIRNS CBD
| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez
THE art, the culture and the entertainment have arrived in Gimuy (Cairns) with the second iteration of the First Nations festival Shine on Gimuy showcasing colour, music and storytelling until Sunday.
A jam-packed program is running after the launch of the festival on Thursday with an array of entertainment and educational options – free and ticketed – including music, conversations, comedy and much more.
With the theme ENTWINED, all stories, all paths and all voices lead to Gimuy and the voices of the Yidinji people who will immerse attendees in a First Nations experience like no other.
Shine on Gimuy artistic director Rhoda Roberts AO said the festival had lots in store for this weekend.
“I think people will be excited by
Solo debut a colour explosion
l CAIRNS NORTH
| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez
TWO First Nations artists have launched their first solo exhibition through UMI Arts ‘Exhibition Ready Program’ in a showcase of 51 artworks and an explosion of colour and creativity.
Artists Jinneecka Don (Tjapukai/ Kuku Yalanji) and Cecelia Slade (Torres Strait Islands) will introduce 51 artworks in a display of different mediums including acrylic paintings, prints, polymer clay jewellery and a hand printed/ sewn quilt.
The exhibition will be open to the public until November 7.
For this solo exhibition Ms Don delved into the symbolism and beauty of turtles and butterflies.
“My artworks are bright and colourful and make me feel happy.
I always incorporate many animals and dots to tell the story,” she said.
“I use blue, aqua, green, pink, and purple tones throughout my artwork, circular shapes, and dot gradients.
“My works are deeply personal, as I always work directly on the canvas, drawing inspiration from my thoughts, emotions, memories, experiences, and observations of the
world around me.”
Ms Slade on the other hand said her inspiration comes mostly from animals and landscapes.
“My current series features serene, flowing works that capture beach life, playing in the shallows and exploring rock pools,” she said.
“These pieces are characterised by soft, calming colours, from delicate peaches to deep blues, evoking the tranquillity of perfect beach days.
“These pieces will resonate with many, but especially those who love the ocean will find a special connection.”
For more information, visit www.umiarts.org.au
our light installations and audio soundscapes, with three new artists as they head down throughout the Esplanade,” she said.
“We have artists from Wujal Wujal, and local based artists. Our opening is with spirit guardians that reflect on the king of Gimuy and his traditional markings, done by his grandson Carl Fourmile. Our next artist is Merindi Schribier a musician and amazing weaver and our third is a young emerging artist Doreen Collins. That’s our difference from last year.
“There’s a lot happening on Saturday. We have our partnership with Queensland Music Festival with the Dream Aloud concert at Munro Martin Parklands, with a great lineup from King Stingray to Baker Boy, Bumpy and Kee’ahn for our younger demographic.
“So at our festival hub at Salt House for a different demographic we have a comedy night with music, which is
super exciting because lots of people don’t get to see our dry and self-deprecating humour. We have Sean Choolburra and Andy Saunders with a new show. There’ll be a lot of tongue-incheek humour.”
There’ll be lots more to see over the weekend with amazing shows by Circa Cairns – Circa Youth Circus – music performances, Deep Wisdom Conversations at Salt House, slam poetry by Rob Waters, music by Mau Power, Kee’ahn, DJ Bala Will and more.
“This year our theme is Entwined, we’re all entwined and connected to everything so we hope for our audience to come, get chill, look at incredible transformative artworks, hear some great bands, take in some talks and walk away knowing that we have more similarities than differences and sees how diverse our culture is,” Ms Roberts said.
For the full program, visit www.shineonproductions.au/gimuy
Mau Power will be performing at the Shine on Gimuy hub at Salt House on
Picture: Supplied
Jineecka Don and Cecilia Slade at the launch of the UMI Arts Exhibition Ready program. Picture: Supplied
Cairns Brass wins the gold
l WESTCOURT
| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez
THE mastery and excellence of the Cairns Brass Band was put under the spotlight at the NSW State Band Championships in late August where they took the gold ahead of six talented NSW bands.
The exceptional talent of Cairns’ musicians has once again been showcased by the Cairns Brass Band which, after 10 years of not competing at the NSW State Band Championships, returned to the competition and emerged victorious in the B grade category on August 24 and 25.
Brass band’s musical director Jon Christo said the band was extremely proud of the results especially after a 10-year break from the NSW competition.
“We competed with our number one band which has 32 members. These are our best of the best musicians from ages 13-70,” he said.
“We were one of six bands in the open B grade which is the second to top grade and all the other bands were from NSW.
“We’ve been to the NSW championships once before, 10 years ago to the day, we went in 2014 and won, and 10 years after we’ve won again.
“It’s not about the big trophy but more about the prestige that comes from winning such a big championship, everyone feels great about it, plus the bands that we defeated were very high-quality bands, in particular the band that came second from Sydney, so we’re puffing our chests a little bit.
“This gives us confidence and impetus to go to the next one.”
The band competed in three events with three different pieces, a hymn chant of their choice, a set test piece which all bands must perform and a major work of their choice.
“A lot goes into preparing for this both musically and logistically,” Mr Christo said.
“We rehearse weekly, coming closer to the competition twice a week. The musicians must practice their parts on their own as well but also, we don’t receive any financial support, so we look after our own accommodation, plane tickets so it’s a big effort.
“We feel great about this win – no other Queensland bands competed this time so to actually come away with it being the only Queensland band is amazing.
“We can’t celebrate for too long because we have to move on to the next thing and we have our major concert coming up in November which will showcase the championship winning band in a memorable concert performance.
“Tickets will go on sale soon for our concert coming up on November 9 at St Andrew’s’ ‘All Saints’ theatre, so come and listen to a local championship-winning band and see how talented our local musicians are.”
The Cairns Brass Band emerged victorious in the B grade category at the NSW State Band Championships in late August. Picture: Supplied
THE
BACKYARD STAGE
CAMPERS CONCERT - 10 OCT
Deadly arts and office combo
Artist Jedess Hudson works with YINJI and Officeworks
l CAIRNS CBD
| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez
A COLLABORATION between
Cairns’ Aboriginal artist Jedess Hudson, Indigenous manufacturer YINJI and Officeworks has launched a deadly collection of furniture to incorporate art and culture into the office.
This epic collaboration of First Nation powerhouses with Indigenous Australian office furniture manufacturer YINDI Manufacturing and patterned fabrics designs by Aboriginal artist from Earlville Jedess Hudson is bringing Indigenous art and culture into the Australian corporate world. The range of ergonomic chairs sold
through Officeworks starts from $269 and are also uniquely upholstered by Brendan Ward-Anning, a Yidindji man from FNQ.
Currently available Australia-wide, this project was a goal for Ms Hudson.
“There was a lot of back and forward on what it (the collection) was going to be, what it would represent and the whole intention was to create a design that was iconically Australian culture,” she said.
“We weren’t sure people were ready for something very colourful in a national store, so we decided to go with black and white, simple, and ease ourselves into it.
“The design represents the basalt stone, which is an Australian volcanic
stone found all across Australia and we wanted to create something people could recognise; this stone is used to cook food in the ground and the bubbles represent the reflection from the sun and the light within us.
“When we go on Country it provides us with so much inspiration and this collection is not just about me as an individual but thousands of years of culture and how we translate it into artistic form.”
Ms Hudson, who’s a descendant of the Ewamian and Western Yalanji people, wants this opportunity to open more doors for other Aboriginal artists.
“As artists it’s always a dream to have our art displayed and showcased on a national scale and this is impor-
tant – it’s about representation and visibility,” she said.
“I want other mobs to see that there are opportunities for them in all different business spaces.
“By Officeworks being open to having Indigenous perspectives and art incorporated, it’s like two worlds colliding and seeing culture show up in places that for a long time wasn’t the norm.”
Officeworks described the partnership as striving to elevate Indigenous businesses to a national stage, significantly contributing to community development.
To purchase the online-only YINJI X Jedess Hudson range, visit www.officeworks.com.au
Toby Mobbs takes on a true-national tour
l CAIRNS CBD
| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez UP-AND-COMING NSW pop-folk musician Toby Mobbs is embarking on a journey across Australia this October and making a stop in Cairns for an intimate show at Elixir Music Bar on October 8.
The Albury singer is getting ready to get in his car and drive 15,000 kms across Australia through every state and territory for 28 days to promote his sophomore album ‘In
Between The Words’ including a stop in Cairns for an intimate show where he’ll treat the audience to an acoustic and stripped-back version of his songs.
Tickets for October 8 are now available through Elixir Music Bar’s Facebook page.
“This is my second album and second national tour. I’m going a bit more regional to promote the latest album ‘In Between The Words’ and the goal is to play every state and territory.
“You usually see an artist
announce a national tour but they skip half of the country, so it was really important to me to announce a national tour that really is a national tour.”
For ‘In Between The Words’ Mr Mobbs brings a catalogue of songs written throughout the years with varied themes and delving into rock and folk roots.
“It was a two-year process, I worked with a co-producer named Matt Cross, and these are songs I’ve written a while ago,” he said.
“We recorded the songs with high
quality studio mics but I sourced a collection of old rotary phones and converted them to microphones, so the album is actually recorded with rotary phones and it gives the album a unique sound, a bit lo-fi as well.”
“This is my first time playing in Cairns so this show will be stripped back, acoustic versions of the album, songs from my previous album and songs I haven’t recorded yet,” he said.
“So have a listen to the album and you’ll be able to hear it in a whole new way.”
ENJOY AN ARRIVAL DRINK, SEAFOOD BUFFET, 3.5 HOUR BEVERAGE PACKAGE, EXCITING PRIZES, SWEEPS, CALCUTTA, AUCTIONS, FASHIONS ON THE FIELD, + MORE! 05 05 11 11 11:30AM TO 3PM 11:30AM TO 3PM NOVEMBER, 2024 NOVEMBER, 2024
Cairns visual artist Jedess Hudson (left), upholsterer Brendan Ward-Anning and YINJI founder Ramon Close with the pattern for the Officeworks collection. Picture: Supplied
Pop-folk singer songwriter Toby Mobbs is coming to Cairns for the first time this October. Picture: Supplied
WHAT’S ON
SPRING ORCHID SHOW @ MT SHERIDAN PLAZA
l THU OCT 10TH - SAT OCT 12TH, 9:00AM-5:00PM
See the region’s most spectacular spring orchids in full bloom at Mt Sheridan Plaza this October. Growers from all over North Queensland are bringing in their best blooms for judging and for the enjoyment of the public. Orchids (seedlings and plants) will be available for purchase, plus experts will be on hand to answer questions and offer expert advice on orchid care, ensuring long-lasting blooms.
See the Mt Sheridan Plaza website or Facebook page for more information.
LIVE COMEDY @ TANKS ARTS CENTRE
l SAT OCT 5TH, 7:45PM
Three of Australia’s most in-demand comedians, Dave Thornton, Lizzy Hoo & Claire Hooper, are teaming up to bring a raucous night of laughs to Cairns!
Guaranteed you’ll have some fun.
Don’t miss out – tickets available via Ticketlink.
SIP & PAINT @ CAIRNS SURF CLUB PALM COVE
l SAT OCT 5TH, 2:00PM-5:00PM
Create a stunning piece of artwork to take home, guided by artist Jessica Lynn.
Your session includes a wine on arrival and mini charcuterie board. No experience necessary.
See www.surfclubpalmcove.com.au or their facebook page for more information.
SINGLE MIXER @ NARROW TRACKS STRATFORD
l THU OCT 10TH, 6:00PM - 7:30PM
Join us for a fun and relaxed evening at Narrow Tracks, where singles aged 27-42 yrs can mingle and connect. This is the perfect opportunity to meet like-minded people in a laid-back atmosphere.
On arrival enjoy a cocktail, and during the evening enjoy light refreshments while you mingle.
Tickets $34 – Bookings available via @DateinCairns
SHINE ON GIMUY @ CAIRNS ESPLANADE
l THU OCT 3RD - SUN OCT 13TH, 8:00PM
Shine On Gimuy is an immersive First Nations and Bama-led multi-arts light festival. Held along the glistening foreshore of tropical Gimuy/Cairns, the 2024 festival will bring the Esplanade and Salt House Festival Hub to life from 3-13 October.
Hosted by the Yidinji Nation, on their homelands, the festival is a celebration of all forms of First Nations storytelling, showcasing innovative arts and cultural practices, as well as illuminating insights into science and industry. Country – and First Nations peoples’ connections to Country –are integral to the festival.
Learn more at https://shineonproductions.au/gimuy
YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR FESTIVAL @ JCU
l WED OCT 9TH, 9:00AM-2:00PM
The Young Entrepreneur Festival is an interactive one-day festival that will develop the skills and mindset that young people need to become entrepreneurs, innovators and small business owners.
The festival is designed for primary school students (grade 4 to 6) and secondary school students (grade 7 to 12).
*Please check with the Venues regarding any cancellations or entry requirements.
FRIDAY 4TH
Calypso Club DJ Saf, 4:00pm
Dunwoody’s Eddie Skiba, 4:00pm
Salt House Shine on Gimuy Music Festival, 4:00pm Strait on the Beach Raine Dance, 4:00pm Boardwalk Social Cinnamon Sun, 4:30pm Surf Club Palm Cove Angie D Music, 5:00pm Ellis Beach Bar & Grill Lady Valiant Duo, 5:30pm Pachamama DJ Matt Caseli, 6:00pm
The Benson Drew Boy, 6:00pm Cazalys Russell Harris, 6:30pm Brothers Leagues Club Cairns Sole2Soul, 7:00pm
CPAC Björn Again, 7:30pm
South Cairns Sports Club Grey Area, 7:30pm
The Pier Bar DJ Jackz, 7:30pm
Whiskey & Wine DJ Livya, 7:30pm
Rattle’N’Hum Palm Cove Andrea & Louie, 8:00pm
The Pier Bar The Vibez, 8:00pm
Rattle’N’Hum Cairns RAN, 8:30pm
BAR36 Tony George, 9:00pm
P.J.O’Brien’s Dusty haven, 9:30pm
P.J.O’Brien’s Dj Nakji, 10:00pm
SATURDAY 5TH
Munro Martin Parklands Dream Aloud, 1:30pm
Yorkeys Knob Boating Club The Blues Healers, 3:00pm
Ellis Beach Bar & Grill The Amazónas Latin Music + Zoey Sutra, 4:00pm
Salt House Shine on Gimuy Music Festival, 4:00pm
Boardwalk Social Drew Boy, 4:30pm
Surf Club Palm Cove Abi Muir Duo, 5:00pm
Paper Crane Andrea & Louie, 5:30pm
The Benson Cinnamon Sun, 6:00pm Cazalys Carrizma, 6:15pm
Brothers Leagues Club Cairns 3’s a Crowd Trio, 7:00pm The Pier Bar DJ Moose, 7:30pm
Rattle’N’Hum Palm Cove Bourban Gorillas, 8:00pm The Pier Bar Nightshift, 8:00pm
Rattle’N’Hum Cairns RAN, 8:30pm Rocco DJ Moose, 8:30pm BAR36 Tony George, 9:00pm
P.J.O’Brien’s Dusty haven, 9:30pm
P.J.O’Brien’s Dj Syntax, 10:00pm
SUNDAY 6TH
Mandala Cafe Blue Reed, 10:00am
Dundees at the Aquarium DJ Glenn W, 11:30am Ellis Beach Bar & Grill Nicole Nighthawk, 1:00pm
Boardwalk Social Amber Farnan, 2:00pm Dunwoody’s Tim Aaron Smith, 2:00pm Trinity Beach House Waiting for Alice, 2:00pm Calypso Club DJ Livya, 3:00pm
Salt House Shine on Gimuy Music Festival, 4:00pm The Pier Bar Kaweyova, 5:00pm Whiskey & Wine DJ Moose, 5:00pm BAR36 Groove Therapy, 7:30pm
Are you a venue or an artist that wants to be listed in the Gig Guide? Complete the form on www.cairnslocalnews.com.au/gig-guide to submit your gig each week to be listed in Friday’s paper.
Take a minute... Puzzles for you
SUDOKU
Solutions
Be
Older family members may take advantage of you by making you feel guilty. Discuss your problems and complaints if you wish to rectify them. Take time to look at any outdated papers or possible investments. You can make extra cash if you act on a hunch.
Unreliable people will be negative about your ideas. Try not to be too emotional with those around you. Take time to talk things over. Travel for business or pleasure. Ferret out information that will hold them responsible.
You can come into money that you don’t necessarily work for. Avoid any confrontations with colleagues. You can look around for the right place and enlist some of your friends to help you move. If you’re already in a relationship, use this added energy passionately.
Talk about your intentions and confirm that you both feel the same way. Entertainment should include sports events or physical activities. Try to visit a country that excites you. Don’t make promises you can’t keep.
Get back down to earth and to basics. You can make gains if you work in conjunction with others. Listen to the advice given by others. Direct your energy into physical exertion. Residential moves will be favourable.
You may not be too pleased with the actions of those you live with. Changes in your home will be positive. You are best to back away from commitment. Small business ventures
CROSSWORD
You might find that a coworker has been two-faced. Look into some personal changes. You can enhance your cash flow if you pick up additional skills. You may want to sign up for lectures or courses that will bring you mental stimulation.
guide what is important in life (6)
25. a starchy root vegetable used in cooking (6)
26. a key on a keyboard that is used to type uppercase letters or access alternate characters on keys (5,3)
27. a type of parrot known for its crested head and ability to mimic sounds (8)
28. the quality of being fair and impartial (6)
DOWN
1. the ability to wait calmly without frustration (8)
2. a thickened and hardened area of skin (6)
ACROSS
3. related to substances that are produced by living organisms (8)
You may feel the need for change this week. Don’t turn down invitations or challenges that could lead to meeting someone special. While some ideas may sound appealing, be cautious of people seeking handouts. Getting out and socialising could help you meet someone very dear.
8. spicy green condiment (6)
9. a person or thing that has the same name as another (8)
10. a conversation between two or more people (8)
11. out in the fields or away from home, especially for work or exploration (6)
12. simultaneous performance (6)
4. a naïve young woman often portrayed as a romantic interest (7)
5. the strong effect that one thing has on another (6)
6. a person who is seeking to achieve a particular goal (8)
7. the expertise needed to perform tasks effectively (6)
the day catching up on any responsibilities that need to be taken care of. Secret affairs may be tempting. Read some books on selfawareness. Discuss your problems and complaints if you wish to rectify them.
13. an artistic movement characterised by extreme forms of expression and a break from traditional styles (8)
14. a feeling of admiration for someone’s abilities (7)
16. the shared beliefs of a particular group or society (7)
20. a formal defence of one’s beliefs (8) 23. the principles of behaviour that
15. a type of fish also known as coley or coalfish often used in cooking (8)
17. not expressed verbally (8)
18. to vote again for someone (8)
19. a strong feeling for something (7)
21. a subatomic particle with a positive charge (6)
22. the process of increasing in size (6)
24. a water-soluble dye obtained from lichens used to test acidity (6)
RACQ reports Bruce and Kennedy are Queensland’s most despised roads
Cairns highways
l SPECIAL REPORT
BRUCE Highway may be a regular number one in a survey on Queensland’s most despised roads but move over - the Kennedy Highway has leapt from last year’s 11th rating to number two in 2024.
In a double whammy for Cairns, RACQ’s 2024 Unroadworthy Roads Survey lists sections of the Bruce Highway as suffering from potholes, narrow lanes, and flood prone sections, earning it this year’s top spot, while the Kennedy Highway with its landslips, winding slippery surfaces and condition-poor Barron River Bridge ranked second.
Head of RACQ’s Public Policy Dr Michael Kane said the results were disappointing, but not surprising, and urgent action was needed from both levels of government.
“We’ve been running our Unroadworthy Roads Survey for more than two decades and the Bruce Highway has either been the worst or second worst road every time,” Dr Kane said. “The Bruce is the backbone of our State, but it’s broken.”
The surge up the ranks by the
Kennedy Highway showed increased traffic and more frequent and extreme weather events were taking their toll on regional roads and needed “targeted investment”.
Rough surfaces, such as potholes, were the most common issue
highlighted by Queensland motorists, followed by poor shoulders, narrow lanes, lack of overtaking lanes and sections prone to flooding, according to the report.
The single-lane, undivided sections of the Bruce Highway from Gympie
to Childers, Gladstone to Proserpine and Townsville to Cairns received the most complaints.
Dr Kane said rural sections of the Bruce had an average “per kilometre travelled” fatal or serious injury (FSI) crash rate three times higher than rural
sections of the Pacific Highway and five times higher than rural sections of the Hume Highway.
In the lead up to the State and Federal elections, RACQ is calling on both levels of governments to work together to Fix the Bruce.
“So far this year, 30 people have lost their life in crashes on the Bruce Highway – we’ve already surpassed the five-year average of 29 deaths,” Dr Kane said.
“We need the State and Federal Governments to commit to a 10-year funding arrangement to upgrade all poorly rated 2-star sections of the highway.
“We’re also calling for the Federal Government to return to the preexisting 80:20 infrastructure funding spilt with the State Government. This is a national road, and the Federal Government must do the heavy lifting to bring it up to standard with other national highways.”
RACQ has provided the survey results to the Department of Transport and Main Roads and relevant Councils.
For the full report and map visit www.RACQ.com/badroads
Single lanes, rough surfaces, and flood-prone sections of the Bruce made the top of RACQ’s survey. Picture: Supplied
Motoring Guide
VeeDub celebrates 70 years
Guiness world record and a birthday party in Sydney for Volkswagen
l CELEBRATION
| Andree Stephens
AN epic 33,548km Australian endurance test, a Guinness World Record win, and the launch of an electrified motoring future in Australia - Volkswagen had much to celebrate on its 70th birthday event at Sydney Harbour last week.
Representatives of the German Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Volkswagen Financial Services and others, witnessed Driver Rainer Zietlow receive the Guinness World Record certificate for the biggest GPS image made by a vehicle.
He and co-driver and photographer Marius Biela inscribed “70 years of VeeDub” across remote parts of Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland and the Northern Territory, then ‘framed’ this with a circumnavigation of the country driving the ID.4 GTX, soon to arrive on our shores.
The message took 23,901km of the 42day journey that involved 132 charging points, often in outback regions where battery electric vehicles (BEVs) are seldom seen.
Volkswagen Passenger Vehicles Director Michal Szaniecki said the “immense scope of this journey reflects the ambition shared by all of VGA’s brands for electro mobility”.
“Sand, snow and flooding rain – in few countries are such a challenging diversity of conditions encountered at the same time of year,” he said.
“The fact that this ID.4 GTX had been driven more than 50,000km even before it was brought into Australia to do this unique, massive test drive, tells customers
that Volkswagen offers the highest quality, durability, range capability and has a nationwide network to support them.”
The ID.4 GTX – a World Car of the Year – and the ID.5 GTX are enroute to Australia, with pricing to be announced shortly.
Volkswagen Group Australia (VGA) Managing Director Karsten Seifert said the 70th birthday event and celebration of the record marked the start of “the next seven decades in this country not only for Volkswagen, but all VGA brands”.
Volkswagen Group Australia consists of Volkswagen, Audi, Skoda and CUPRA.
“VGA’s is implementing a BEV Strategy that is multi-faceted, a plan that provides customers with comprehensive, whole of ownership packages including the installation of home charging to make the transition to electric mobility seamless.”
In addition to the ID.4 Pro and ID.5 GTX; Volkswagen’s already iconic ID.Buzz “electric Kombi” people mover and Buzz Cargo van are also on the way to Australia. This month Skoda’s Enyaq SUV Coupe went on sale and will join Audi’s Q4 and CUPRA’s Tavascan in being delivered by the year’s end.
“Australia’s relationship with electric vehicles is maturing, but this country has a long standing love affair with pickup trucks – or ‘utes’ as we say here,” Mr Seifert said. “So, we are also announcing another endurance effort, this time in the Amarok.”
Mr Zietlow will next month drive through Australia’s deserts to showcase the twin cab utility Volkswagen Amarok Style V6, with accessories fitted by Volkswagen and sponsors ARB.
Driver Rainer Zietlow and co-driver and photographer Marius Biela pose in front of the Sydney Opera House. Inset: The tour took them all over Australia. . Pictures: Supplied
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Friday October 4th
Cairns Night Markets: 54-60 Abbott St, 16:30-23:00
Kuranda Heritage Markets: Rob Veivers Dr, 10:00-15:30
Palm Cove Markets: Williams Esplanade, 08:00-14:00
Port Douglas Markets: Wharf St, 08:00-13:30
Rusty’s Markets: Grafton St, Cairns, 05:00-15:00
Tolga Markets: Morrow Park Racecourse, 07:00-12:00
Underwater hockey action aplenty as players vie for the state team selection
Sport Tobruk hosts titles clash
l UNDERWATER HOCKEY
| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez
ALL the breathtaking action is on this weekend at Tobruk Memorial Pool as teams across southeast and Far North Queensland get ready to compete for the title of Queensland champion and a chance to make it into the state team.
Fans of the more unorthodox sport, the underwater hockey state titles – hosted in Cairns at Tobruk pool this year – will enjoy the action as local team, the Cairns Crays, give their all to take top-spot against big challengers like Cooktown and Sunshine Coast tomorrow and Sunday.
A grade teams, B grade teams and under15s and a total of 130 athletes will face one of their biggest challenges to become the best in Queensland.
Cairns Crays secretary Anton Williams said this would be a battle, not only to crown the best, but for an opportunity to join the Queensland team.
“The competition will go on Saturday and Sunday and on Monday in the morning there’ll be the Queensland team selection,” he said.
“The A grade will be contested between five teams from Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunny Coast, Cairns and Cooktown. B grade will have those same clubs while the junior grade will have only Cairns and Cooktown.
“Cairns won the state titles in 2022, so we will attempt to win again but A grade will be incredibly tight. There were some experienced players joining the Cooktown team, Cairns has recruited some strong Victorian players for mentorship and Brisbane – for the first time – have a very strong team. Gold Coast is always strong, captained by the current world champion in Kate Howard, and Sunshine Coast is relatively new, this is their first year in A grade and they’ll be coming in strong.
“The Cairns team has a very strong figure in captain Kai Wagner, 22, and he’s just come back from the world championships.
“This event serves as preparation for nationals in Ballarat in January 2025, so this is a good chance for teams to play high-level hockey because being a small sport we don’t have lots of opportunities to play in a competition together.”
Mr Williams said they encouraged the community to join and support their team from the grandstands.
“We definitely welcome public attendance in the grandstands. There won’t be TVs and cameras like there would be at a national competition, but there’s space for people to come and see the game from the side of the court,” he said. The competition will run from 9am – 4pm each day.
Sport Results
BROTHERS EDMONTON
BOWLS
Wednesday September 25th
overall winners: M Bucklar, D
Cairns’ underwater hockey team the Crays will attempt to take the state titles this weekend. Picture: Supplied
Daffy, G Cann. Game 1: winners: T Mould, M Catalon, R Moody. Thursday, September 26th winners: S Bates, C Tay-
lor, E Atkinson, J Rick.
MARLIN COAST BOWLS
Tuesday September 24th
Wednesday September 25th
mixed bowls winners: T Spicer, K Loughnans, O Morley; R/U: B Clarkson, L Roberts, J Young. Thursday September 26th mixed self-selected triples
Thursday September 26th winners: L Urenholt, A Petersen; R/U: P Mulkearns, L Dixon.
winners: D Spicer, D Smith, D White; R/U: Bernie, Clive, Eddie. Saturday September 28th morning scroungers winner: Gary R; R/U: Birchy. Club championships mixed pairs: C Scott, R Gillman def A Lim, D White, 32-21. D & J Russell def C Hughes, V Still, 21-13. SJ Pitt, L McCarthy def B Noe, B Smith, 16-13. B & G Andreatta def G & S Porter, 25-16.
Get a taste of the world tour
Cairns International Pro Tour brings top tennis players up close and personal
l TENNIS
| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez EPIC battles are brewing for the glory at this Cairns International Pro Tour, where the best tennis players from across Australia and the world are fighting for the trophy and international ranking.
Qualifying kicked off last Sunday as the Cairns International Pro Tour made its awaited return to Far North Queensland until October 13.
Centre court saw Townsville’s Lizette Cabrera (seventh seed) ready to embrace the North Queensland heat and kick off the main draw on Tuesday with a clean sweep 6-2, 6-3, against Japan’s Nanari Katsumi, showing she is ready to regain her 2022 title at the event after having to withdraw from the 2023 final due to injury.
“I’m just really happy to be back in Cairns. I love playing this tournament and am excited for the next two weeks,” Ms Cabrera said after her win.
Tuesday also saw Tai Leonard Sach, who grew up in Cairns, making the main draw in a centre court session against fellow Aussie, Roger Rogowski taking the win 6-1, 6-4.
Wednesday’s on court action started with world No. 1 junior Emerson Jones in her debut at this event, against Belle Thompson taking the match 6-3, 6-4 for an exciting debut.
The Cairns International Pro Tour
event consists of two consecutive ITF men’s and women’s singles and doubles events, providing players with the opportunity to compete for a combined prize pool of $100,000 USD, in addition to valuable world ranking points.
“The Australian Pro Tour is an integral part of the high-performance pathway for our emerging athletes and also those we have seen for many years plying their trade,” said the tournament director Andrew Reynolds.
“Being able to host international events such as the ITF Pro Tour right here in Cairns is important for providing athletes the opportunity to experience competing at an international level. It has been fantastic to see players from the local area and greater area of North Queensland taking part.”
This Australian Pro Tour event also presents a unique opportunity for Cairns spectators to witness international tennis up close, featuring top players from around the globe.
Notable athletes to watch include Emerson Jones, the current World No. 1 junior who has started with a win, Lizette Cabrera, from Townsville, who’s eager to take the throne back, Omar Jasika, the 2023 Champion, and rising star Talia Gibson.
The general public can visit the Cairns International Tennis Centre to watch world-class tennis matches for free.
For more information, visit https://bit.ly/47RrK1x
Northern Pride celebrates magnificent year with awards
l RUGBY LEAGUE
| Isabella Guzman
Gonzalez
NORTHERN Pride ended its season on a high note, celebrating the remarkable achievements of their players with an awards night where Tom Duffy took home ‘Player of the Year’.
Still recovering from the heartbreaking loss against the Redcliffe Dolphins, Northern Pride took a pause to celebrate and acknowledge the amazing 2024 season by honouring their players and staff at the Northern Pride awards at the Brothers Leagues Club last Thursday night.
“It was a good night, we had a bit of time to digest and
move past the prelim final loss and last Thursday night was just the time to celebrate the magnificent year we had. And as much as we would’ve loved playing on the grand final, we still needed to celebrate the players and the club which has gone so far,” said head coach Eric Smith who announced the winners.
“Tommy (Tom Duffy) has had a great year, he got the ‘Player of the Year’, highest point scorer of the year at the QRL Awards and at the Cowboys presentation he won the ‘Affiliated Club Player of the Year’.
“It’s been a breakout year for him and I think being a young kid playing in the most pivotal position in the team where you call the shots, he’s way beyond
his years – he plays with the temperament and mindset of someone who’s been playing an extra 10 years.
“I think he’s very well rounded as a player and he’s only at the start of his journey.”
Other winners of the night were, William Partridge (Members Player of the Year), Lachlan West (Rookie of the Year), Taniella Ta’ufo’ou (Most Improved Player), Jensen Taumoepeau (Best Back), Evan Child (Best Forward) and Tomas Chester (Players Player).
Mr Smith who’s preparing for his new role with the NRL Redcliffe Dolphins said he was honoured to have been a part of this unforgettable season.
“The support we were getting by crowd numbers was
evident, these numbers just grew every home game we had. There was a lot of chatter and noise around town and everyone was excited,” he said.
“It was great to have the community behind us and we wanted to represent them as well as we could.
“We still think there was a lost opportunity in that prelim final, it was heartbreaking to lose especially in the fashion we did, but now that we’ve moved on from that, the club, the team, the individuals have a lot to be proud of this year and this has been one of the most enjoyable years of football I’ve lived.”
The club will now focus on the recruitment process for the 2025 season.
Townsville’s Lizette Cabrera is back at the Cairns International Pro Tour in 2024. Picture: Supplied
Northern Pride award winners Player of the Year Tom Duffy (left), Members Player of the Year William Partridge, Best Forward Evan Child, Players Player Thomas Chester, Rookie of the Year Lachlan West, coach Eric Smith and Best Back Jensen Taumoepeau. Picture: Supplied
