Cairns Local News February 09 2024 by Cairns Local News

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HMAS Cairns celebrates 50th birthday

Rumours are true – Rondo turns 70

Soccer kicks off this weekend

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$7.5bn target Tourism sets ambitious visitor spending goal by 2032

A visiting couple enjoy the tranquility of Stoney Creek, Kamerunga. Tourism Tropical North Queensland says the region’s natural surroundings are attracting more tourists.

Picture: Tourism Tropical North Queensland

l FAR NORTH | Nick Dalton THE region’s tourism industry has set a goal of annual visitor spending to top $7.5 billion by 2032 – the year of the Brisbane Olympics. The target was revealed by Tourism Tropical North Queensland chief executive officer Mark Olsen after visitor

expenditure had currently reached a record $4.8bn, up from $3.5bn in 2019, and after a period of doldrums between 2006-2014. He told 170 people at Tuesday’s Cairns Chamber of Commerce lunch that the most optimistic scenario of $7.5bn was based on 7.12 per cent growth while the less positive case study was $6.3bn (4.7 per cent growth).

In the middle ground is $6.7bn (5.6 per cent). Mr Olsen said $6.3bn, estimated on the slowest growth of 4.7 per cent, would need: • Increased domestic and international flights or bigger planes involving 125,000-165,000 additional seats • Growing domestic market share of high value travellers requiring an

estimated 5000-10,000 additional rooms by 2032 • Supporting new visitor experiences, requiring an estimated $5bn in infrastructure and investment. Mr Olsen believes if the industry pursues the ambitious target it will almost double current visitor spending in less than 10 years. CONTINUED PAGE 5

Deputy wants top job l DOUGLAS SHIRE | Isabella Guzman Gonzalez FOUR-year Douglas councillor and deputy mayor Lisa Scomazzon has emerged as a late and, so far, only contender for the mayoral race ahead of nominations closing on Tuesday. After weeks of silence and no candidates putting their hands up, the Newell Beach business owner officially announced she will be running for the top job aiming to focus on disaster resilience and water and sewage infrastructures. If elected at the March 16 elections, Cr Scomazzon (above) would replace current mayor Michael Kerr who is not standing again. “I’ve been a councillor for four years and I was happy to do four more, but I believe that with our current situation in the shire there’s a lot to deal with, and the mayor should be someone who has had a term already,” Cr Scomazzon said. “I spoke to my other councillors and none of them wanted to take on the role, so I decided to raise my hand for it.” CONTINUED PAGE 2

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Five-year strategic plan sets out six key productive objectives l FAR NORTH | Isabella Guzman Gonzalez CENTRED on six key objectives, the newly released five-year strategic plan for the region’s economy intends to make north Queensland the most productive economy in North Australia with the Far North as a key player. With collaboration as the core strategy, the Regional Development Australia (RDA) Tropical North and FNQ Regional Organisation of Councils (FNQROC) Tropical North Queensland Economic Development Strategy 20242029 will focus on dynamism, connectivity, liveability, environment, integration and productivity to become the most productive economy in North Australia. RDA Tropical North chairwoman Prof Hurriyet Babacan said the strategy would prove critical to the region. “We’ve reviewed what could be done in our region to position ourselves for the future in terms of economic development capitalising opportunities and looking at ways in which we can collaborate, and we’ve

Chief executive FNQROC Anthony Archie (left), FNQROC chairman Michael Kerr, RDA Tropical North chairwoman Hurriyet Babacan and RDA Tropical North chief executive Sonja Johnson launching the TNQ Economic Development Strategy 2024-29. Picture: Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

partnered with FNQROC made of 12 councils in TNQ including Cape York and Torres Strait,” she said. “We have a lot of strengths but also a lot of challenges. Not all our roads are connected, not all our local governments

are well supported and digital connectivity, as we saw with Cyclone Jasper, can go down at any moment, so this strategy guides us on how to position this region to play a more effective role. “This is a broad-based plan,

it identifies where are the opportunities and we’ve identified them across six areas, positioning ourselves in the 21st century, digital connectivity, green economies, productivity, liveability, our environment and First Nations and collaboration.

We’ve come up with a range of actions.” Prof Babacan said that they were looking into key industries to help the region’s resurgence. “We’ll explore opportunities for green energy transition, regional collaboration for a plastics recycling industry, facilitating partnerships to realise the Etheridge Agricultural and Irrigation Precinct, regional advocacy to headquarter an 18th NRL team in Cairns and securing further funding to enable the Peninsula Developmental Road to be sealed to Weipa,” she said. “The strategy will also be used to facilitate private investment, trade, local procurement and jobs for the Tropical North.” FNQROC chairman and Douglas Shire mayor Michael Kerr said a united front was necessary to achieve these goals. “It’s so important that you have a strategic vision in place, so you know where you’re going, the industries know where you’re heading and to present to our federal and state government so when they’re doing their budgets they’re aware of what we’re looking for,” he said.

Cr Lisa Scomazzon hits Douglas shire mayoral hustings FROM PAGE 1

Cr Scomazzon said she had the experience to tackle the shire’s most pressing issues. “The main priority is this natural disaster and slowly get through it. With what’s happened it’s quite obvious that a lot of our infrastructure is ageing, in particular water and

sewage which need to be pretty much rebuilt, so there has to be talks with state and federal government which is happening,” she said. “We’ve got major infrastructure issues with our roads, especially near the rivers, so that needs to be constantly worked on.

“One of the biggest things I’ve noticed in the last four years is that people talk about transparency but they aren’t being transparent so I believe that the community should be aware of all the goings in our council, and that’s financials and contracts, because people need to know where their services and

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Fifty happy returns for region’s naval base l PORTSMITH HMAS Cairns is 50-years-old. The Royal Australian Navy celebrated the birthday last Friday. HMAS Cairns was first established as a patrol boat facility in 1971 and commissioned as HMAS Cairns in 1974. The base was moved in 1982 and now sits on the site of a former navy ship repair yard, originally built at the outbreak of World War II. HMAS Cairns hosts about 800 navy and civilian personnel and is the home port for six naval vessels. The base provides maintenance, logistic and administrative support for Cairns-based fleet units and its responsibility extends from Rockhampton to Thursday Island. Commanding officer Commander Alfonso Santos said the anniversary was about celebrating naval history and the connection between navy’s people and the surrounding Cairns region. “The people of HMAS Cairns value our relationship with the local community,” he said. “We appreciate every opportunity to support our neighbours in Far North Queensland, including during the recent floods. Defence personnel conducted flood rescues and re-supply operations throughout the region which was really rewarding work.” Anniversary celebrations included a formal parade ceremony known as divisions, reviewed by the commander of the Australian fleet, Rear Admiral Christopher Smith.

l MOSSMAN

Cutting the HMAS Cairns 50th anniversary cake are Australian fleet commander Rear Admiral Christopher Smith, with seaman general experience sailor Sophie Evans and Commander Alfonso Santos. Picture: Defence

Councillor unsuccessfully ﬁghts to stop high-rise on esplanade

Village gets approved

l CLIF T ON BE ACH | Nick Dalton

St John’s Community Care retirement village on Arlington Esplanade.

the buildings, increased traffic, little community benefit and restricted views. The application

was code assessable and public notification was not required. Cr Max O’Halloran, who moved approval of the village, said he was concerned the buildings showed a flat roof with no character. Mayor Terry James said the reason for a flat roof was so the design could add more storeys and therefore more units under the current planning scheme. He said a pitched roof meant fewer units as the current scheme measured the height from the bottom to the top of the roof. Cr James said the council needed to return to the former planning scheme so buildings had more personality. Division 9 councillor Brett

Olds said the buildings were “ugly boxes”. He said in the past the organisation’s nearby five-story building at 89-91 Arlington Esplanade was “accidentally” approved by the planning department when it should have been delegated to councillors. Cr Olds said a previous proposal for eight storeys of two blocks for 109 units was rejected in 2018 after a long-fought campaign by residents. He said the community did not want multi-storey buildings along city waterfront esplanades. Cr Olds said the community had been “duped” in the past. He said every wet season the road went under and retirement

villages should not be built in flood zones. Planning, growth and sustainability director Ed Johnson said it was designed to protect against any flooding. He said on the ground level there would be offices, a café and a car park – no accommodation. Cr Rob Pyne said in the light of recent flood events there would be vulnerable people living in the village and he would not support it. The development was approved by Crs James, O’Halloran, Rhonda Coghlan, Kristy Vallely, Cathy Zeiger. Against were Cr Olds, Pyne and Amy Eden. Cr Brett Moller declared a conflict of interest.

Our Team

A FIVE-storey retirement village at Clifton Beach has been approved by Cairns Regional Council despite the concerns of the divisional representative and residents. The St John’s Community Care project, on the corner of Clifton Rd and Arlington Esplanade, comprises two towers of 32 units on floors 1-5, totalling five storeys. It was recommended for approval in an officer’s report. There were more than 20 “not properly made” submissions about the development with concerns including removal of trees, the height of

Patricia Courtenay

Marisa Seden

Dr Nicole Sleeman

Renee Lees

Phillip Musumeci

Carine Visschers

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For Mayor HONESTY | COMMITMENT

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Growers: ‘Don’t give up on shire town’

My team and I will bring renewed energy and ideas. We will preserve our special lifestyle with responsible urban planning and sensible housing and transport strategies. We will listen to community needs and insist on sustainable development over unchecked growth. Our region and community deserve new leadership, free from false promises, closed-door meetings and unsustainable development agendas. Authorised by P Matthews, 2/10 Intake Rd, Redlynch

CANEGROWERS and the Australian Cane Farmers Association are calling on the state government to support Mossman’s recovery as the town continues to struggle in the aftermath of ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper. Canegrowers Mossman chairman Matt Watson said tourism revenue had plummeted since Jasper struck on December 13, and now the region’s only other major employer was in jeopardy. “People are still doing it really tough in Mossman. The town was basically isolated for weeks after Jasper. Homes, businesses, and farms were all inundated by flooding and the water has taken so long to subside due to continuing rainfall that the community is still counting the cost,” he said. “One thing we do know is that tourism, which is one of the region’s biggest industries, has fallen off significantly. That’s had a huge impact on the community. “To make matters worse, Mossman’s single biggest employer, the Daintree Bio Precinct, is now in real jeopardy if the government doesn’t step in and help secure its future.” The bio-precinct and its subsidiaries, including Far Northern Milling (FNM), contribute about $190 million to the local economy annually and employ 570 people, almost a third of the town’s population. The mill is in administration after it could not fund the 2024 harvesting season and entered voluntary administration on November 20 last year. A consortium has come forward with a plan to turn the precinct into a green energy hub, but only if the state government supports the initiative through guaranteeing the 2024 and 2025 seasons. Australian Cane Farmers Association representative Jack Murday urged the Queensland Government to help save the Mossman community by throwing its full support behind the mill’s biofuel transition process. “It’s at times like these, when we have suffered a huge blow, that we need our elected representatives to step up,” he said.

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New name for park upgrade Residents invited to make suggestions l GORDONVALE | Nick Dalton RESIDENTS are being asked to name a new park at Gordonvale. Cairns Regional Council is transforming Kenrick Street Park into a fun, family-oriented parkland for the community of Gordonvale and the wider area. A council spokesman said the council had consulted with the community and key stakeholders about the final Kenrick Street Park masterplan, which will deliver upgrades to the park in stages over coming years. “Stage one of Kenrick Street Park redevelopment is jointly funded by council and the Queensland Government, which committed $3 million to the project last year,” he said. “As part of this significant project, council would like to rename the park and is inviting the community to provide suggestions for a suitable name.” In accordance with the naming of community infrastructure policy, any suggested names must fit within the following categories: • Geographic/natural features located nearby or flora and

Angie Rutter with Archer Vick, Lacey Negri with Storm Romelo and Dultcie Dalzell with Ace Odgers at Warrina Lakes where the new nature playground is being planned. Picture: Cassowary Coast Regional Council

Let your imaginations run wild

An artist’s impression of the new sporting facilities at Kenrick St Park.

fauna endemic or native to the area • Events, moments or people of historic significance from the local area, for example, significant pioneering families, early settlers, military campaigns or events such as a solar eclipse • Names with local cultural significance for traditional custodians with a strong connection to the subject land. The council spokesman said parks were to be dually named with a title chosen by the public and one by traditional owners. “In this instance, the traditional owners have chosen Gu-

jura Park, which refers to the very bushy or leafy trees which will adorn the park,” he said. “Council will evaluate the names submitted by the community and a name that best suits the site, community desires, and meets the policy naming criteria, will be recommended to council for approval.”

Residents can submit a name at the council’s website https:// www.cairns.qld.gov.au/council/ projects-and-priorities/haveyour-say giving reasons or information as to why the name should be chosen. Submissions are open until 5pm, Thursday, February 22.

l INNISFAIL A NATURE playground where imaginations can run wild is the next planned instalment for Warrina Lakes Community Parklands. With design concept elements from embankment slides to fossil digs and cargo net climbing, the Cassowary Coast Regional Council is inviting the community to share which features they'd most like to see. The new $780,000 nature play area will be an exciting new playground for families

and visitors to enjoy. A council spokesman said the council was eager to hear which elements in the design concept were the most desired. “The feedback will play a pivotal role in what the final playground looks like,” he said. Resident Lisa Kann said it was a great idea to have the nature play at Warrina Lakes. “As a grandmother of three I can bring my kids here and know that they are safe, meet up with other people and it’s great for the region – I think

it’s a great idea,” she said. “While council is currently presenting a preliminary concept, the final design will integrate elements distinctive to our region, to capture the essence of what makes our area unique,” the spokesman said. The community consultation period will be open until Sunday, February 18. Visit yoursay. cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au/ warrina.lakes The council’s Innisfail customer service centre or the Innisfail Library will have information on display for feedback.

Authorised by the Queensland Government, William Street, Brisbane. PAGE 4 Cairns Local News, Friday, February 9, 2024

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China Eastern Airlines’ crew and officials with Cairns Airport chief executive Richard Barker (centre).

The China Eastern Airbus A330 jet, which has 232 seats, taxis to the international terminal.

Lunar New Year seasonal ﬂights arrive in Cairns to celebrate Year of the Dragon

Welcome back China Eastern l AEROGLEN | Nick Dalton CHINA Eastern flights for the Chinese New Year are running almost at full capacity. The first of 10 direct services until February 18 arrived on Thursday last week. An airport spokesman said inbound

passenger loads were up to 80 per cent (about 186 people of 232 capacity). It is hoped the special flights will encourage the airline to operate more seasonal services. “The seasonal services are an excellent opportunity to showcase our region and we expect that they will help to accelerate the return of visitors from China,” the spokeswoman said. Last week’s first direct flight was the

first from China in almost four years. Thousands of Chinese tourists are expected to welcome the Year of the Dragon in the Far North this year. Cairns Airport chief executive officer Richard Barker said the service was a significant milestone for the region and local operators. “China is a key inbound tourism market, and these are our first direct flights since the pandemic,” he said.

“It is clear that our region remains a destination of desire, and we expect these direct seasonal services will help to accelerate the return of visitors from China.” The last Chinese seasonal flights from China were in 2019. The most recent scheduled service from China was Hainan Airlines, which operated to Shenzhen and exited in March 2020 due to the pandemic.

Tourism Tropical North Queensland chief executive officer Mark Olsen said the region’s international recovery was closely linked to aviation and these flights allowed Cairns to show it was ready to welcome visitors from China. “China was our largest international market before the pandemic, accounting for one in five international visitor nights and injecting more than $200 million a year into our regional economy,” he said.

Despite $300m hit by Jasper, TTNQ forecasts huge future growth FROM PAGE 1

“If the region can reach the stretch growth of $7.5bn in total visitor expenditure in 2032, that’s approximately $4.2bn more in visitor spend per annum than the visitor economy generated in 2019,” Mr Olsen said. “While all sectors of the economy will benefit from this, some sectors may see an even greater

impact of the extra $4.2bn per annum, including beverage and food $1.3bn every year, $1bn in transport, $800m in attractions and experiences, $600m in accommodation and $500m in shopping,” he said. Mr Olsen said the optimistic targets were despite $300m in forward bookings lost due to Tropical Cyclone Jasper and the

following devastating floods. “But we’ve been clawing that back to $280m and now $250m,” he said. Mr Olsen said February was looking “hard”, while March was looking better, especially with Singapore Airlines’ wide-bodied jet starting and 20,000 visitors for Chinese New Year with hundreds arriving on direct China Eastern

Airlines’ seasonal flights. He said currently visitor numbers were back to 96 per cent of 2019 (pre-COVID) figures, with domestic numbers well above 2019, while international was still only at 52 per cent of 2019 numbers. Visitor spending was currently 140 per cent of 2019, domestic at 172 per cent and international

at 63 per cent. Airport passenger figures in January were at 101 per cent of 2019, while cruise ship visits would return to 2019 numbers in 2024. Tourism Minister and Cairns MP Michael Healy told the lunch that in the past two years, the state’s tourism industry had “made headway from the profound economic challenges due

to the domestic and global impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic”. “The state’s visitor economy has experienced strong recovery and growth,” he said. Mr Healy said the state was “on track to achieve target of $44bn in annual Overnight Visitor Expenditure (OVE) by 2032, with record $34.3bn in total OVE in year ending September 2023.”

Council News Update New name for Kenrick Park The community is being invited to suggest a new name for Kenrick Street Park in Gordonvale.

Cairns ratepayers are reminded that Council’s half-yearly rates are due on Wednesday 14 February.

The park is being transformed into a fun, family oriented parkland for the community of Gordonvale and the wider area. Stage 1 of the redevelopment is jointly funded by Council and the Queensland Government, which has committed $3 million to the project.

Ratepayers who were severely impacted by the December flood event caused by ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper can apply for financial assistance in the form of extended interest-free payment arrangements.

In accordance with Council policy, parks are to be dual named with a name chosen by the public and one by Traditional Owners.

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In this instance, the Traditional Owners have chosen “Gujura Park”, which refers to the very bushy or leafy trees which will adorn the park. Residents can submit a name for the park at Council’s website. Submissions are open until 5pm Thursday 22 February.

To apply, complete the rates hardship relief online form on Council’s website or call 1300 69 22 47.

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Anderson St, Manoora: Water main upgrade on the southern side of the street, from Mayers St to Pease St. Property access disruptions and water outages. 4Visit Council’s website for a full list of improvement works.

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2024 council election s

Crime ‘priority’ issue

Patrols curb bad behaviour l CAIRNS REGION

lCAIRNS REGION | Nick Dalton THE Cairns Unity Team has rated crime and community safety as the regional city’s number one issue and has announced a series of measures it will implement if elected next month. “Unity understands that Cairns’ number one issue is crime and community safety. It doesn’t matter which one of our team is out there talking to residents, from Ellis Beach to Babinda, people always bring up crime and community safety,” team leader and current mayor Terry James said. “We will introduce a raft of measures that help Cairns residents feel safe in their homes and communities while unapologetically holding the state government to account on issues of crime and anti-social behaviour,” he said. They include: • Zero tolerance for repeat offenders • Holding the state government to account to tackle crime • Investing in additional CCTV devices and the Cairns City Safe program in the CBD and suburban hot spots • A proactive approach to the prevention of crime and antisocial behaviour with coun-

Unity team members in front of a CCTV camera in the Cairns CBD include (from left) Heidi Healy, Rhonda Coghlan, Matthew Calanna, Terry James, Jeremy Neal, Nathan Lee Long, Kristy Vallely and Brett Moller. Picture: Nick Dalton

Unity Team has seven ideas for security and safety cil public space safety officers to assist the Queensland Police Service • Identification of hot spots in the suburbs with improved lighting and visibility to deter anti-social behaviour • Working with all levels of government to increase youth engagement programs and opportunities

across Cairns. “Since becoming mayor, I have met with the new premier and the opposition leader to discuss the community safety issues facing our city, and if reelected, I will continue to pursue all options to get the investment we need for the people of our city,” Cr James said. He said there were 500-plus

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CCTV cameras and more would be added to known hot spots. He invited the community to send a list of areas where cameras were required. Cr James said he wanted the new council to work with the owners of liquor outlets to reduce alcohol-related antisocial behaviour in places such as outside the Raintrees shop-

ping centre in Koch St. Division 5 candidate Nathan Lee Long said the council was offering incentives for developers to build residential projects in the CBD, so there would be more people living in the inner city. He said more people out and about in the CBD would deter crime and anti-social incidents.

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AN expansion of Cairns Regional Council security patrols to the city’s suburbs has resulted in a fall in crime. Deputy mayor Brett Moller told last month’s council monthly meeting that the latest City Safe data was “quite pleasing”. He said there had been a reduction in anti-social activity in December with city safe incidents reported to the CCT control room of 344 down by 17 per cent, by patrol officers (635) decreasing 19 per cent, alcohol incidents (60) down 29 per cent, rough sleeper instances (953) falling 14 per cent and youth crime (30) down 36 per cent. Cr Moller said every day of the extra patrols had resulted in a drop in anti-social behaviour and he hoped the trend would continue. Mayor Terry James said he had received good feedback from residents. He said one woman in her 80s had phoned him, desperate for his help about constant crime and safety issues at Mooroobool where she had lived since 2003. But since the patrols, as well as a police presence in her suburb, “it’s been quiet ever since. She can’t believe it”, Cr James said. A council report said alcohol and rough sleeper incidents were high “due to increased patrol interceptions”.

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Rainwater tanks ‘are crucial’ l CAIRNS REGION RAINWATER tanks are back on the agenda in the 2024 local body elections campaign. If elected in March, Community First mayoral candidate Denis Walls said he would push subsidised rainwater tanks for Cairns’ residents. “This has got to be part of dealing with our water problems into the future,” he said. “We have heard a great deal recently about the threat to our water supply caused by the floods in the wake of Cyclone Jasper. “It has been used as the justification by Cairns Regional Council, shortly before an election, to pass a motion supporting a half billion-dollar investment in the stage 1 Mulgrave water project.” Mr Walls said Community First had questioned this and sought professional opinion from local engineering hydrologist Andy Marr. Mr Marr said the council had rejected rainwater tanks because they were not considered “effective for Cairns ... as the extended dry season ... means they would contribute very little to reducing mains water use”. “They are wrong. The (my) model results show that rainwater tanks can, in fact, make a significant contribution to water supply in Cairns,” he said.

2024 council election s

Costly projects in focus

Mayoral candidate Amy Eden promises independent reviews l CAIRNS REGION | Nick Dalton

Team Eden leader Amy Eden wants an end to council’s closed door meetings. Picture: Supplied

THE multimillion-dollar blow-outs of two Cairns Regional Council projects will be reviewed if Team Eden is elected next month. Mayoral candidate Amy Eden said, at her campaign launch last week, the issues behind the bungled council software rollout and southern water treatment project needed to be brought to light. “We will commence independent reviews into the delayed and overbudget IT and water projects to determine how we can prevent such blow outs from happening in future,” she said. Ms Eden said Team Eden’s first 100 days in office would focus on setting a firm operational direction that was founded on transparency, accountability and best-practice governance. “Firstly – and importantly – we will work productively with council officers to deliver a responsible council budget that ensures operational and financial stability for the following 12 months,” she said. “We will take our first steps toward transparency reforms, shifting the culture towards one of openness and accountability, and we will engage independent expert advice regarding council’s development and planning assessment processes to ensure we are meeting best practice.” Ms Eden said her council would

also prepare an outline of Cairns’ priorities for the upcoming state election and present it to each of the major political parties. “We want to make sure Cairns gets its fair share from the incoming state government,” she said. Also among the short-term priorities is the launch of a new round of the council’s community survey. “A council exists to serve its community. We can’t do that without first listening to what the community wants and understanding how we can best support our city’s needs,” Cr Eden said. “There is so much we believe Cairns can achieve with a supportive council that empowers and enables its community to thrive,” she said. “We stand for a renewed Cairns, a connected Cairns, a diverse Cairns, a sustainable Cairns, a thriving Cairns. “With new leadership and a more collaborative approach to governance, we believe Cairns can finally mature and flourish as the sophisticated international city that we know it can be. “We want to create opportunities for innovation, for diverse employment opportunities that offer real career pathways, and for success in all its forms. “Part of that lies in bringing new businesses to our city, and supporting those that are here to expand their horizons, creating jobs that give our ambitious young people reason to stay.”

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Nurses hit wards with passion l FAR NORTH MORE than 100 graduating registered nurses, enrolled nurses, and midwives have started work at the Cairns and Hinterland and Hospital Service (CHHHS). The 102 nurses and seven midwives will complete two sixmonth rotations across Cairns Hospital, as well as heading out to rural hospitals, following their orientation training. CHHHS nursing and midwifery executive director Cameron Duffy said it was an exciting time for the nurses and midwives, who would be given opportunities to work in many areas of the health service, including cancer

care, day surgery, orthopaedics, respiratory and renal ward, gastroenterology ward, and mental health. “Our nurses and midwives are the heart and souls of our health service, and it’s always a wonderful time to be able to welcome so many new faces to our wards,” he said. Newly-registered nurse Stephanie Taney worked as an enrolled nurse at Cairns Hospital before upskilling to become a registered nurse. Ms Taney, who grew up in Normanton, said the nursing development pathway at CHHHS had helped increase her confidence to take on more responsibilities in her caring role.

“I love nursing, because it offers such a wide variety of career opportunities and I can keep on learning continuously, while knowing I am making a positive contribution to the community,” she said. Analiese Beauvois had been working as an assistant in nursing at Cairns Hospital, before deciding to upskill to become an enrolled nurse (EN). Ms Beauvois, who worked as a student nurse in a private skin cancer clinic for a year before shifting over to the hospital, said she loved nursing as a profession. “Nursing is a great career for me, because I love being around people and interacting with everyone,” she said.

CHHHS nursing and midwifery executive director Cameron Duffy (left), new registered nurse Stephanie Taney and enrolled nurse Analiese Beauvois, with strategic planning and workforce nursing director Tracey Bancroft. Picture: CHHHS

Mission Beach Community Association needs fresh, youthful representatives

Group aims for young blood l MISSION BEACH | Isabella Guzman Gonzalez LOOKING to bring younger minds with fresh ideas for the community into their team, the Mission Beach Community Association (MBCA) is encouraging young residents to stand for a committee position at the upcoming annual general meeting on Tuesday next

week (February 13). The Mission Beach Resort hosts the AGM where new committee positions and assistants will be selected to present new ideas and projects for the community in 2024. MBCA president Patrick Bluett said the committee was in need of young perspectives to help the association accomplish its goals. “This year we’re looking to

continue to represent the community, improve the quality of life for our residents and improve the infrastructure in Mission Beach,” he said. “With several committee positions becoming available, we want younger representation from the community. “We’re all 50 and over, so we’d really like to attract younger committee members to have a voice for the younger

generation within Mission Beach. “This is an important year for us. We’d love to work with council and local stakeholders to attract GPs and a medical practice to Mission Beach because our closest GP is in Tully and this is just not good enough for our residents and we’ve got no medical infrastructure for the tourists in the region.

“In a small community like Mission Beach, it’s up to local residents and ratepayers to get together and give back to the community, it’s all voluntary but we all work to improve the lifestyle and liveability of Mission Beach. “It’s really difficult to find volunteers in this day and age but it’s all in the interest of building a better place to live across all facets.”

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Disaster support hub opens l CAIRNS CBD CENTACARE FNQ’s disaster recovery response has ramped up a notch with the opening of an inner-city hub where individuals and families impacted by recent weather events can seek help. Centacare FNQ, in partnership with Anglicare NQ and the Salvation Army, has assembled a case management support team to coordinate a broader disaster response tailored to each circumstance. Centacare FNQ executive director Anita Veivers said many people in the community were struggling in the aftermath of Cyclone Jasper and might not even be aware that help was available. “By coordinating the human and social response with fellow service providers in the community, we will limit duplication and ensure that no person or family in need goes unheard,” she said. “From navigating the complex social service system, providing assistance with grant applications and insurance claims to help with housing or household goods, our team will develop an appropriate plan that puts people on the right road to recovery.” The hub is on the ground floor of 22-34 Aplin St, Cairns, open Monday to Friday from 9am and to 4pm, phone: 0467 776 553 or email IntakeCommunityRecovery@ centacarefnq.org

Digging in for families New $3.8m neighbourhood centre will l MANUNDA support community and young people

| Nick Dalton

At the new neighbourhood centre sod turning were (from left) Ethan Hale of UnitingCare Community, Communities Minister Leeanne Enoch, Cairns MP Michael Healy and Osborne Constructions director Phil Osborne. Picture: Nick Dalton

A NEW $3.8 million neighbourhood centre to help families and youth in Cairns is expected to open in about six months. Construction of the two-storey building, which includes a lift, started last week after a sod turning attended by Communities Minister Leanne Enoch and Cairns MP Michael Healy. The building is on the site of the old centre at 98 Birtch St, Manunda. The former centre, established in a house in 1999, was demolished and the service is currently operating out of temporary premises at 1A/127 Anderson St, Manunda. The new centre is expected to open in about August and is being built by Osborne Constructions. Ms Enoch said the building was fit-for-purpose to provide the fundamentals for whatever young people needed. She said the centre was operated by UnitingCare Community, providing programs and services, including emergency relief, homelessness support, financial and psychosocial programs and support. Ms Enoch said centre staff ensured children did well at school and helped them into jobs. There were also domestic violence support and a playgroup for young mothers. “The new building will pro-

vide a modern accessible hub which will improve UnitingCare’s delivery of its critical services and programs to people who need it the most,” Ms Enoch said. “The Miles government is committed to investing in the Queensland community and is providing over $74.9 million over the next four years to fund neighbourhood centres across Queensland. “Each year, approximately two million people access neighbourhood centres right across the state and we will continue to increase the accessibility of these centres as they are a welcoming entry point for many people to access programs, support and assistance when they need it most.” “Access to high quality community, psychosocial, financial and personal support is critical to help people to get through the tough times and start to thrive.” Mr Healy said the centres were the cornerstones of their communities, helping to meet the needs of Queenslanders, supporting people in times of crisis and addressing issues such as loneliness and social isolation. “This improved physical infrastructure provides a trusted public space that all community members can visit, providing dignity, safety and a place to connect, and be supported,” he said. “We need to meet the growing needs of our community, and this new building will futureproof the services and supports we offer the Cairns community.”

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Never too late to learn

Council catching up on jobs

lMANUNDA | Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

l CAIRNS REGION

AFTER three years of a COVID-imposed pause, the popular University of the Third Age (U3A) guest speaker afternoons are back for anyone looking to learn about an array of interesting topics like health, global warming, and security. Kicking off next Thursday, February 15, at Brothers Leagues Club, an average of two speakers per week will be directing a set of talks on thought-provoking subjects and others on fundamental topics for seniors like home security, identity theft and cyber-crime with experts. Leader and tutor of current affairs at U3A John Pratt said U3A Cairns was excited to bring back a favourite with the guest speaker afternoons. “I’ll be holding one talk every fortnight at Brothers Leagues Club with our president and the purpose is to increase our membership, so we’re inviting members and the public,” he said. “The first speaker is Dr Glenn Fulford, a lecturer at JCU, interested in the history of pandemics and medical history, so we’ll have eight talks on the subject of history of diseases. We’ll also have environmental scientist Pam Jones, and a set of aged care talks for retirees on personal safety, cyber-crime, etc, at the U3A building. “We had this program on ice since

CAIRNS Regional Council crews are ramping up their efforts to restore public areas to the level the community has come to expect. Council chief executive officer Mica Martin said scheduled maintenance and beautification programs had been placed under significant pressure since the December floods, with resources and personnel redeployed to high priority recovery areas. “Our council teams take great pride in the presentation of their respective areas, and they are trying desperately to catch up in very challenging conditions,” she said. “In response to the devastation left by ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper and the flooding, we redeployed regular maintainance crews to priority areas, such as assisting with the kerbside rubbish pick-up in flood-impacted areas as well as ensuring roads and drains were cleared quickly, and access for residents across Cairns was restored. “This meant that regular maintenance was suspended for a short period. “We are now working to get on top of our beautification and maintenance works. “We thank the community for their patience, and encourage residents to report any issues they might see to council via the website or the My Cairns app.”

U3A Cairns president Maria Donkers and current affairs leader John Pratt are hosting guest speaker afternoons. Picture: Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

University of Third Age re-starts lecture sessions COVID but before that we were getting 20-30 people attending the talks and we’re hoping to recover those numbers. Some people joined U3A just because of those lectures, so it’s good to have them back.” Mr Pratt said the talks were a way to explore local talent and

bring more enriching activities for the elderly in the community. “We’re interested in exploring the talent we have in the retirement area in the region, people who might’ve been university professors and experts,” he said.

be informed, can do so.”

“Also, retirees are always looking for something to do in the afternoons so it gives them options and keeps their brains stimulated. “Education is a lifelong thing so it’s an opportunity for seniors, who may not want a degree at uni but still want to learn and

For more information and dates on the guest speaker afternoons, visit www. cairnsu3ainc.u3anet.org. au Entry to the talks cost $3 for members and $5 for nonmembers, coffee and tea will be provided.

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Noisy fly ing roost drivi fox residents ng batty

l PORT DOUG LAS | Nick Dalto n WAYS to safely move at Port Dougl a roost Douglas Shire as are being investof flying foxes igated by The counc Council. the funding to il is applying for state act on compl well as develo aints about government p a long-t the roost ment plan for the region erm flying fox manag as At least six . ecomplained residents of the Lakes Estate have flying foxes to the council about the specta on the wester Road. cled n side of Old Port In a counc il report about the residents noise from bat droppi of the bats, the raised issues ngs, the expen risk of diseas running air e se their lifesty conditioners 24/7 andof cleaning and les. the damag “I can’t sleep e to because of one unnam the noise ed 24/7,” said daily. I have resident. The mess like a prison to lock myself in I have to clean my home er, still I can feeling said. hear them,” the resident “I can’t swim in my pool some horren l CAIRN in fear of S dous catchi diseas ture is ruined ng , everything e. My outdoor furniAsia (includ mess. It is | Nick Dalto is splattered affecti n land for threeing China and Japan) Douglas Shire ng my health, sendin with their G’DAY Austra and New g me mad.” Mayor Micha the destination days in October the proble Zeaketing event lia, a million-doll el for m Tourism Tropic and the Great and to experience training about local flying would protect the Kerr said fixing al North to kickstart in Cairns later this ar tourism marecutive Mark the tropica community fox popula fore and after Barrier Reef for thems the reviva year, is expect l north tions. “I have spoken and Olsen said Queensland chief visitor marke l of the region critica elves both ed exto many worried about t. The event the event. ’s international be- nation l to revitalising the G’Day Australia residents G’Day Austra was region’s lucrati al tourism who which is a (previously known asked counc living so close to marke ist travel agents lia involves bringi ve worth 20 partnership as ‘Corroboree’ flying foxes are per cent in t which was curren interia, Touris back into il to consider safely and ), m and Events between Tourism Europe (includ from the US and ng 300 specialtrees across terms of volum tly only “This nudgin will Austra g Tropic Canad the road,” them Cr Kerr said give it a massiv Queensland ing Germa e and l- worth he ny, France a, the UK, for the al North Queensland and Touris e boost … value. tect both the he wanted to create said. m said. millions of dollars Touris and Italy), first it will be bats a plan to proin advertising tralia since time in the city in 10 m, is being held “Spectacled and residents. value,” he years and 2019. “It will be flying-foxes in Ausour eco-sy an enormous play a vital national aviatio stem and shot role are seed disper n recovery.” in the arm for interCONTINUED sers of native efficient pollinators in ON PAGE “I would and trees,” he 2 a sensitive like to see this issue said. and safe from a trained manner underaddressed in ecologist supervision ...” • Full Week ly or Daily • Catering Care for 12 month • Vacation, s to Schoo Before and l Age • Great, after Schoo Safe Centr l Care al Location • All meals supplied • Qualified and nutrit chef ionist • CCS Approved Approved • Swim and • JET Payme Survival World PE nt Classes • Program Sports • Isand Box Technology Learning • Theatrical Safety Educa Adventure Classes • tion • Dance • Kindy Gym Environment MONDAY and Music al and • Qualified TO FRIDAY Classes • Natural teachers 6.00AM gardens • Kindergart 6.00PM • Natural en curric playgrounds ulum Call

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Charity receives $3600 l CAIRNS REGION ALMOST $4000 in donations collected during Cairns Regional Council’s final two free green waste disposals in 2023 have been presented to the Pyjama Foundation. In August and November, residents taking advantage of the council’s free green waste disposal periods were encouraged to make a voluntary gold coin donation to support the organisation, where over the course of the two periods, a total of $3600 was collected. The Pyjama Foundation was created to provide children in care with opportunities, to create positive relationships, and instil a love of learning. Since 2004, more than 11,000 children in care have spent more than one million hours with the foundation’s volunteer mentors, who work tirelessly and lovingly to empower children with learning, life skills and confidence to reach their full potential. Foundation founder and CEO Bronwyn Sheehan said funds raised through the free green waste disposal initiative would support the work of The Pyjama Foundation in Cairns. “The Pyjama Foundation’s programs are offered to children in the community living in foster care with the aim of achieving positive life outcomes for these young people through learning, life skills and confidence,” she said.

Zonta hands out educational scholarships to four young women

Making dreams happen l CAIRNS REGION | Isabella Guzman Gonzalez FOUR overachieving girls from the Far North will be able to kickstart their educational dreams after being awarded four scholarships worth $6000 in total from Zonta Cairns. As part of not-for-profit Zonta Cairns’ annual awards, the encouragement and vocational awards for girls – Sophie Gavin from Peace Lutheran College, Mishael Corea from Malanda State High School, Tehel Hayman-Rubach from Babinda State High School and Grace Carter from Bentley Park College – will be able to start their tertiary education and make a change for women in the future. The four girls were chosen from a cohort of 23 applicants from Cairns up to the Cape. Zonta Cairns advocacy chairwoman Mary Potter said it had been a great year for the awards with extra funding and highquality applicants. “We usually have $5000 for the awards, but this year we had an extra $1000 thanks to the donations of our sponsors Mary Ann Stokes from Drilling Around, who contributed $5000, and Yolonde Entsch, who donated $1000,” she said. Mrs Potter said she was excited with the quality of applicants.

www.cairnslocalnews.com.au

Zonta encouragement and vocational award winners Grace Carter (left), Tehel Hayman, sponsor Mary-Anne Stokes and Sophie Gavin. Absent: Mishael Corea. Picture: Supplied

“For example, one of our winners, Mishael Corea, has already been to Sri Lanka and she’s already seen and worked with people displaced by the war and she wants to do a degree in humanitarian law to go back and do that. She’s only 17.” Encouragement award winner Sophie Gavin will go on to study a Bachelor of Medi-

cine and Bachelor of Surgery at James Cook University with her $2000 grant, aiming to bring a focus on women’s health and better diagnosis for women. The encouragement award’s second winner, Mishael Corea, will undertake a business and humanitarian law degree at the University of Newcastle which she’d like to use to volunteer

and mentor women in remote communities. The two vocational award winners – Tehel Hayman-Rubach and Grace Carter – will use their $1000 funds for a boilermaker apprenticeship at Komatsu and a Cert III in Early Childhood and Education and Care and a diploma in Early Childhood at TAFE respec-

tively. “These girls are going to male-dominated industries trying to make a change for women and I believe they can change the world,” Mrs Potter said. Applications for 2025 will be available by term four and sent to all schools in the region. They also can be downloaded from the Zonta Cairns website

Cairns Local News, Friday, February 9, 2024 PAGE 11

Lettersto the editor

WANT TO BE HEARD? send your text to 0473 424 877 or email letters@cairnslocalnews.com.au Trinity Park project unsuitable for site

Mary Petersen, Trinity Park

Fossil fuels are vital to world

Richard Holme, Edmonton

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Vocal Local join our online debate In the last edition we asked the question: Which Cairns mayoral candidate will you be voting for and why? Here are some of your comments.

THIS WEEK’S QUESTION Do you think the retirement village at Clifton Beach should have been approved. Why or why not?

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We have more than 50 community groups in the Cairns region. They are voting for the person who cared about them and was already supporting them over the years and, not just now, during this election. We need to renew, refresh Cairns and Amy Eden for Mayor (councillor division 5) can do this for us. She’s strategic, physically and mentally strong, committed, engaged, communityorientated, passionate about to make a change for Cairns. Vote 1 for Mayor Amy Eden. - Kesa Strieby, Facebook Team Eden for sure. They represent fresh blood and positive change for Cairns. Removing the closeddoor secret meetings will strengthen the community trust

Robert Marlborough, Smithfield

Many thanks to SES after cyclone

in council. Go Team Amy Eden for Mayor (councillor division 5) - Pat Blake, Facebook Team Eden all the way. Cairns needs to progress. It is time for change. We need people that understand our needs and fight for us. - Petra Sorensen, Facebook Amy Eden has the all-round ability to be relevant for at least two fouryear terms. Can any of the other contenders claim to match her? No way. - Barry Brady, Facebook Amy Eden for Mayor (councillor division 5). It’s time for change. A woman supporting all of Cairns. - Bec Dalton, Facebook

Alan and Kath Maclean, Edmonton

Backpackers to come to rescue of disaster communities THE Albanese Labor government is providing greater incentives for backpackers to help with natural disaster recovery through changes to the Working Holiday Maker (WHM) program as part of its continued effort to resource and support communities recovering from natural disasters. Under previous arrangements, people who held a Working Holiday Makers visa who worked or volunteered in areas affected by floods and

Nita’s view bushfires were eligible to apply for a second or third WHM visa.

This work will now extend beyond flood and bushfire recovery to other forms of natural disasters such as cyclones or storm surges as part of the government’s response to recent weather events in Queensland. These changes recognise the important role of working holiday makers in helping regions in the aftermath of natural disasters, and their valuable support to businesses and communities to recover as quickly as

possible. The Albanese government is committed to using our migration system to help meet the needs of regional Australia. Further changes to skilled and regional migration, including the WHM program, are being considered as part of the Migration Strategy. Far North Queensland is no stranger to backpackers, they make up a huge part of our communities and support our tourism industry. This new arrangement will

mean so much for tourism towns like Cairns, who when faced with natural disasters, can often lose that pull for backpackers to come and work here. Now, they will be incentivised to come to assist in local recovery, and then hopefully stay in our beautiful regions. When it comes to recovering from natural disasters, it’s always all hands on deck to assist in the clean-up and rebuild. So, making it easier for work-

ing holiday makers to help out in the aftermath of these events is going to be a great help for local communities, particularly those who have recently experienced cyclones or floods. From supporting the recovery work in the immediate aftermath of natural disasters, to their ongoing participation in the local workforce and economy, backpackers are vital to regional Australia. Nita Green is a Labor Senator for Queensland based in Cairns

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Gazza’s Gossip

Breakfast from 6am on Douglas FM 101.5FM

Four Mile Beach shore cleaned up

Volunteers for the Tangaroa Blue Foundation scoured Four Mile Beach as part of the clean-up. Pictures: Tangaroa Blue Foundation

l PORT DOUGLAS I OFTEN see images online, or on the TV, of seas around the world littered with different types of rubbish. It may be easy to assume that this is happening somewhere else and not in our idyllic paradise. It may well be true that our own waters are comparatively clean, but in reality, they are probably not as sparkling as you may think and the extent of the modern world’s human impact is far worse than appears to the eye. While an estimated 40,000 pieces of plastic float in every square kilometre of ocean, it is only when it washes ashore that most people get an idea of

how much rubbish must actually be out in our oceans and the effects that this has on marine life and seabirds. As horrible as beach rubbish is, and looks, it does present the best opportunity to remove it from the environment before the next tide washes it back out to sea again. Fortunately, there is help at hand, both in terms of a national organisation and, as is often the case, locally-based volunteers. Let’s start with the former, this being the Tangaroa Blue Foundation. This is an Australian-registered charity focused on the health of our marine environment and coordinates the Australian Marine Debris Initiative (AMDI). The organisation also coordinates an

LEVEL WATER RESTRICTIONS We NEED YOUR HELP

on-ground network of volunteers, communities, organisations and agencies around the country monitoring the impacts of marine debris along their stretch of coastline. The AMDI Database is used to firstly identify what is impacting different sections of the coast and then to track wherever possible where those items are coming from. Lastly, stakeholders are then brought together to work on practical solutions and create source reduction plans to stop marine debris from entering our oceans in the first place. The database has open access to all contributors who are also recognised when data is used and has been used by the CSIRO, James Cook University, all levels of government and communities.

As mentioned, volunteers, organisations and communities from around the country are invited to join forces in the Australian Marine Debris Initiative to find practical solutions in reducing ocean pollution. That’s where our local volunteers kick into action, cleaning up areas like Four Mile Beach in Port Douglas. In fact, this location is one of the longestrunning Queensland beach monitoring sites. Locals have been cleaning and collecting data from this site each month for the past 12 years. Since the program started in 2004, more than 23 million pieces of marine debris have been removed from the Australian coastline and data on this debris collated and input into the

FIGHT WATER WASTE

Australian Marine Debris Initiative Database. Last week, I caught up with some busy rubbish collectors, working hard to ensure a cleaner Four Mile Beach now and a brighter future for our environment. If you are keen on helping in the future, you can contact Lucy for more details by emailing: lucy@tangaroablue. org I’m off for a walk along the debris-free sands of Four Mile Beach, so for now it’s Gazza signing out. Send your stories to gazza@ cairnslocalnews.com.au

Be a H2O Hero Like Will

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litres saved * 210/week 882/month 10,584/year Be prepared. Stay informed. Visit douglas.qld.gov.au

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Cairns Local News, Friday, February 9, 2024 PAGE 13

Spotlight on Douglas

Region’s residents urged to head north of Cairns to boost businesses

Shire towns need your love

l DOUGLAS SHIRE | Isabella Guzman Gonzalez DOUGLAS Shire businesses and locals are encouraging residents of the Far North to ‘make a day’ out of visiting the shire, support the local businesses and tourism industry as they continue on their journey to recovery. Despite the hardships lived through the last two months, the community of the Douglas Shire keeps rising, with local businesses and tourism operators up and running and eager to receive interstate tourists and FNQ visitors. Douglas Chamber of Commerce committee member Martin Tranter said the community was looking forward to the return of visitors. “Tourism is seasonal, so fundamentally the shire was relying upon a really good Christmas period into January to carry them until the next high season which is Easter and the consequences of the Cook Highway being shut has effectively meant that the shire has lost that crop of income. It’s not just the loss of the assets but the loss of income post Jasper,” he said. “We are now back with business as usual thanks to the sterling efforts of all the contractors to reopen the Captain

Cook Highway. The town is open for business and it’s a case of driving up, local visitation from Cairns and Tablelands, and to remind the community that Jasper was just a glitch that happened in 2023, not a lingering effect. “No one would be more delighted to welcome guests than the Douglas Shire.” Mr Tranter said this was the time for the Far North residents to lend a hand and reignite tourism in the shire. “Mossman has been dramatically affected in a way that hadn’t been seen in 100 years, so take the time, drive up there, make a day of it and make a day of visiting the shire again to help us get on our feet in the same way we would do for the Cairns region,” he said. “The silver lining is that the FNQ community is so resilient, and we look out for each other and, although we rely on the interstate-based trade right now, we need everyone to come up, go to the Mossman Markets, visit Port Douglas, take tours and spend some time and money and in the shire. The community would love to have you back. “Eventually when Cape Tribulation gets back on its feet that will be even more significant to our tourism. This is about FNQ rallying around FNQ.” Mr Tranter also encouraged local businesses to continue to pursue financial relief.

Peter and Cecilia Buchanan of Two Hearts Goldsmith in Mossman are encouraging people to visit the shire Picture: Supplied

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WE REQUIRE A VARYING SKILL SET OF VOLUNTEERS! If your interested in learning some new skills, having some fun and meeting new friends fill in the expression of interest form at:

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And our volunteer co-ordinator will be in touch. www.cairnslocalnews.com.au

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TERMS & CONDITIONS: To be eligible for the Current Pricing and Bonus Offer, an Expression of Interest form must be signed on a prospective villa at Casa Mia Living on Stage One by 29th of February, 2024 with $5,000 deposit received in full. Bonus Offer includes no weekly general service fees for first 6 months from the date of settlement. Offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Offers are not exchangeable for cash or transferable. RLS Developments NQ Pty Ltd reserves the right to remove or alter offer at any time. Pricing is subject to change at any time without notice. Promotion starts 07.10.2023.

Cairns Local News, Friday, February 9, 2024 PAGE 15

Health and Wellbeing

Methods available to minimise irritating head and/or ears’ sensations

Help for tinnitus sufferers l CAIRNS CBD TINNITUS (pronounced tin-it-is) is the conscious awareness of a sound sensation in either a person’s head or ear/s in the absence of an external sound source. Audiohealth director and senior clinician Joanna Magee said tinnitus was not limited to ringing in the ears. “Some people experience tinnitus as a buzzing sound, a hiss, or even a repetitive musical tone,” she said. “Tinnitus may be constant or intermittent and the pitch and loudness may vary.” Ms Magee said tinnitus occurred in 15 to 35 per cent of people with normal hearing and about 50 to 60 per cent of people with hearing losses. “Different types of hearing losses are more typically associated with tinnitus. Age-related hearing loss and hearing losses caused by significant noise exposure are commonly associated with tinnitus,” she said. “Tinnitus can be experienced by both adults and children. “While many people experience tinnitus, only a few of these people will find it very bothersome or debilitating. “The mechanism underlying tinnitus is a complex one. “Tinnitus originates from damage occurring to the primary organ of hearing

(the cochlea of the inner ear) and asynchronous activity at the auditory nerve (the nerve carrying information from the ear to the brain). “This asynchronous nerve activity is experienced as tinnitus and often occurs at a pitch corresponding to the region responsible for interpreting that particular pitch in the cochlea, which has been damaged. “An anxious response to the tinnitus can heighten a person’s awareness of the sound, which in turn, can exacerbate this person’s experience of the sound. “Although the sound of tinnitus may not always be eradicated, it need not be as bothersome to the individual, and its impact on a person’s quality of life can be minimised or managed. “Modern hearing aids are equipped with programs to mask tinnitus. “Often improving hearing loss with the use of hearing devices helps to mask the tinnitus sometimes the tinnitus is not even heard as the brain responds to outside stimuli. “The latest device uses Ear-Brain technology to support our neural networks and is waterproof, making it ideal for our wet tropic environment.” Call Audiohealth for a tinnitus evaluation, advice and support. A free trial of hearing devices to mask tinnitus is available this week. Phone: 4041 7860

Tinnitus is common in people of all ages, genders and nationalities. Picture: iStock

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Health and Wellbeing

Family medical practice now accepting new patients l BUNGALOW A SUBURBAN medical practice, which offers mixed bulk billing, is accepting new patients following extra staff being appointed. Dr Rajlakshmi Rajpal said Harmony Family Medical Cen-

tre had been looking after the Cairns community since May 2022. The other doctors are Dr Gagandeep (Gagan) Rajpal and Dr Harshani Jayawardana. “We offer holistic care to our patients, looking after their physical, emotional and social wellbeing,” she said. “Our team of experienced doctors,

nurse and administrative staff are proud to provide exceptional primary care services. “Being in the community for more than a decade, we understand our patient needs across all ages and all demographics. Our priority is to provide high quality healthcare. “We have happy, satisfied and

and pension card holders.” The general practice offers immunisations – from birth to adults, Indigenous health, children and adolescent health, chronic disease management (diabetes, hypertension etc), cervical screening tests, women’s health, antenatal and postnatal care, contraception, mental

appreciative patients and now with a new addition to our team we have capacity to accept new patients and have easy availability. We offer comprehensive general practice services, we are a mixed billing practice and bulk bill kids up to 16 years of age, people of First Nation origin and all DVA card holders, health care

health and men’s health. The practice has onsite pathology, is conveniently located on 211- 217 Mulgrave Rd with plenty of parking spaces and easy bus access.

Patients can make appointments online through the website https://bit.ly/3SwCxGR, Hotdoc or by phone 4243 3534

Optometrist bows out after 50 years of dedicated service

Mellick sees the light l CAIRNS CBD

Bruce Mellick is retiring after 50 years as an optometrist.

AFTER 50 years as an optometrist, Bruce Mellick, of Bruce Mellick Optometry, is retiring from patient care. Mr Mellick first opened his business on Abbott St, Cairns, in 1974. Over the decades he has treated 23,491 patients. Mr Mellick said he had gone to great lengths over the years to ensure his education remained at the cutting edge of the industry, often introducing new technologies and procedures to the practice before they were widely available across the state. While, he said he was step-

WE ARE CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

ping back from the day-to-day engagements with patients, he would continue with a supportive role within the business. “I’d like to thank all of my patients. Caring for the Cairns community has been a privilege,” Mr Mellick said. He said he would focus on working on the business, as well as enjoy more leisurely aspects of life. The firm’s business manager for 19 years, Karyn Mann, will run operations while Alex Norris will maintain his role as senior optometrist, ensuring Mr Mellick’s legacy of quality care continues.

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Ms Mann said Bruce Mellick Optometry was more than just a clinic. “It has been a second home for its customers and staff, providing a warm and welcoming atmosphere that goes beyond mere transactions,” she said. “The practice has become renowned for its approach to customer service, where each individual is treated with genuine care and attention. “As Bruce embarks on this new chapter, the practice pledges to uphold the standards he has set, guaranteeing that the community of Cairns will continue to have access to outstanding eyecare.”

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We need your help to take Cancer Care to the next level. FNQ deserves world class cancer treatment. We can do it together. The Foundation needs to raise $1.5 million to support the development of state-of-the-art facilities and provide the best possible care to cancer patients. The Foundation will work with Queensland Health on the $3.4 million project, which will lessen the need for patients having to travel south for treatment. They will be cared for here at Cairns Hospital Cancer Care hub, close to those who love them.

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Valentines Day Don’t be mean on Feb 14

Millennials to splash out on their loves one, but not stingy baby boomers l SURVEY AS it turns out, inflation can’t kill love. According to new research from Compare the Market, the average adult Australian will spend $162 on their significant other this Valentine’s Day. But being in love will cost millennials more than double what the average Aussie couple spends. Love-sick millennials will shell out a whopping $334.35 for their partner’s Valentine’s Day gift. This is followed by generation Z ($185) and generation X ($142). Meanwhile, baby boomers appear to show their love in other ways, with the average senior spending just $20 on Valentine’s Day. Compare the Market’s Chris Ford said gift-giving must be millennials’ love language. “You can’t put a price on love, but $300 seems to be the going rate for Australian millennials this year,” Mr Ford said. “If we put that into perspective, it’s enough for around 60 cups of coffee, to fill the car

with petrol around three or four times or to purchase a weekend getaway. “If it’s within their budget, and they’ve planned for this expense, then that’s fantastic. The data also found that Victorians are likely to spend the most on Valentine’s Day than other states, with the average price sitting at $266.80. “Melbourne is renowned around the world for its restaurants and dining experiences, so it’s highly likely that Victorians will wow their loved ones by wining and dining them,” Mr Ford said. “However, if you’re in South Australia, you may be at the short end of the stick. Our data shows that the average South Australian will spend $47.37 on Valentine’s Day.” “The good news with Valentine’s Day is that there are so many ways you can celebrate your love for one another that doesn’t cost any money.” In Queensland it is $145.79 and in New South Wales $106.27. How to save money on Valentine’s Day • DIY date night ideas

Skip the five-star dining and make a special meal at home. Make your own movie ticket and build a fort in your living room to watch a movie (don’t forget all your partner’s favourite snacks). Light some candles around the home and dance or listen to music together. • Write a love note Depending on who you’re dating, this V-day gift could backfire, but it could also earn you some serious brownie points. Writing a love note might sound old-fashioned, but there’s something utterly romantic about getting a pen writing to your loved one the different things you like about them. You could use a sticky note for each idea and put them all into a small box wrapped up. • Bake something They say the secret to someone’s heart is through their stomach. Try whipping up a batch of heart-shaped cookies. If you don’t have a cookie cutter, go buy one. Prices start as little as $2. Whatever recipe you decide to bake or cook, it’s going to be 100 per cent better than any premade food you can buy from

Celebrate the romantic day with something special for your loved one. Picture: Prostock-Studio/iStock

a store - because it’s made with love. • Postpone your celebration The day after Valentine’s Day, everything related to the day of

love will significantly decrease in price. So maybe you could consider postponing your V-day plans until the following weekend. • Make them a mixtape

Long gone are the days when you burn a bunch of songs onto a CD. You can now make a playlist on Spotify. Pick all your partner’s favourite songs.

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TimeOut

Absolutely true Rumours Rondo Theatre celebrates 70 years of theatre with classic Neil Simon play l EDGE HILL | Isabella Guzman Gonzalez TO kick off 70th anniversary celebrations of Cairns’ most prolific community theatre, the Rondo Theatre is coming back to the stage for its season opener with a hilarious farce, Rumours by Neil Simon, that will transport you to a dinner party from hell. Theatre season is finally here, and cackles are on the menu with Rondo’s Rumours coming up from February 23 to March 2. The play will also mark the beginning of the theatre’s platinum jubilee. Directed by Narelle Shorey, Rumours tells the story of deputy mayor Charlie Brock and his wife Myra’s glamorous 10th anniversary dinner party, but when the first guests Ken and Chris Gorman arrive to find Charlie wounded in bed, with his wife missing, and a dinner yet to be cooked, they decide to protect Charlie’s reputation over his life. What ensues as guests begin to arrive is absolute chaos with crazy stories, rumours and conspiracies being concocted in an attempt to continue the cover-up. Producer Kevin Shorey said it was exciting to kick off the 70th anniversary with Rumours. “Rumours is an exercise in comedic timing. Sometimes I worry more that the laughter is going to drown out the next comic line,” he said. “My wife Narelle Shorey is the director and, as it is a play set in the 80s, we’ll also be paying homage to the Rondo building which was built 40 years ago.

Race Redomra as Claire (front) and Natalie Crow as Chris (rear) in Rondo Theatre’s first play of its 70th year, Rumours. Picture: Supplied

“In Rumours we have four well-to-do couples getting together for their friend’s 10th wedding anniversary, so the couples begin to arrive and there’s a lot of confusion, and

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we have five very well accomplished actors and four very well accomplished actresses dressed beautifully in 80s outfits with 80s décor and it’s a laugh from beginning to end.”

Mr Shorey said the play would bring a laugh to the community during these tough times. “There has been so much trauma for everyone with the floods and we’re all experiencing so

much angst that there’s a need for distraction and total enjoyment and that’s what we want to do,” he said. “So if you just want to laugh, sit back and enjoy a glass of

wine in a very intimate theatre space where you can almost touch the actors, come along and join us.”

To buy tickets, visit https://therondo.com.au/

Cairns Local News, Friday, February 9, 2024 PAGE 19

Time Out

Cassowary Coast tribute show to beloved American actor and entertainer

Que sera, sera to Doris Day

l INNISFAIL | Isabella Guzman Gonzalez DORIS Day fans will be dancing to the tune of ‘Que sera, sera’ this March with country legend Melinda Schneider coming to Innisfail for a Doris Day tribute that will take you on a ‘sentimental journey’. Kicking off the Cassowary Coast Regional Council Morning Melodies program for the year, ‘A farewell to Doris Day’ on March 12 at the Innisfail Shire Hall will surely have fans of the original ‘girl next door’ having an unforgettable morning. The tribute will go down memory lane through Ms Day’s greatest hits including Que sera, sera, Everybody Loves a Lover, and Secret Love, plus classic songs from her movies. Singer songwriter and selfproclaimed biggest fan of Doris Day – Melinda Schneider – said she was excited to take her tribute up north. “It’s been a few years since I’ve been to Innisfail and I have a special place and good memories of going up to North Queensland when I was first starting my country career, so I’m excited,” she said. “I first released my album ‘Melinda does Doris Day’ in 2010 and wrote a whole stage

show about her life in 2011 and I’ve been touring those over the years so the audience can expect to hear a lot of stories about her life, all of her bigger songs and songs from her most famous movies, and music from her earlier jazz material.” Ms Schneider said she was most excited to take people on a journey through memory lane and perform some of her favourite songs. “I think the ones I love to perform the most are Secret Love, The Deadwood Stage from her movie Calamity Jane and one of her earliest songs called It’s Magic, which it’s just a beautiful ballad from Romance on the High Seas,” she said. “This tribute will take people on a very emotional journey back to the 30s, 40s, 50s, 60s and 70s which were the biggest years of her career and it’ll bring a lot of good memories to people. “It’s just lovely to be able to bring some joy, take people’s minds off the things going on in the world and catch up with my fans and Doris Day fans in the Far North.” Tickets are $15 including morning tea and can be bought online now at www.trybooking. com/CNWIJ or in person at one of council’s customer services centres at Innisfail Shire Hall or Tully Civic Centre

Country legend Melinda Schneider will perform a tribute to Doris Day at the Innisfail Shire Hall this March. Picture: Supplied

How bard can it get for Mission Arts Theatre Ensemble? l MISSION BEACH | Isabella Guzman Gonzalez EVERYTHING that can go bad will go bad in Mission Arts Theatre Ensemble’s (MATES) hilarious new production ‘How Bard Can It Get?,’ where a talented and diverse cast will have audiences in stitches with their relatable fourth wall-breaking story on how to put on a community theatre play. This April, Mission Beach Community Centre will go meta with the three upcoming shows of ‘How Bard Can It Get?’ from April 11-14 with the hilarious story of all the misadventures of a community the-

atre cast putting together a Shakespeare play. Director Don Sanderson said audiences should expect the unexpected with this production. “How Bard Can It Get? is the story of a community theatre who are putting on Shakespeare’s ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ to lots of comedic effects and disastrous outcomes,” he said. “By opening night, they have no lead actor, no lighting, no costume, no makeup, no idea really,” he said. “We have a cast of 15 people ranging from ages 10 to 80 and it has been a collaborative effort to bring this script to life. “We don’t do mainstream pieces because of the changing nature and

PAGE 20 Cairns Local News, Friday, February 9, 2024

budgeting of community theatre but this is a production that is quite relatable to people. “We’re delighted to welcome many new members, especially young people, to be part of what promises to be a highly entertaining show.” Mr Sanderson invited the community to enjoy a lighthearted comedy this April at the Mission Beach Community Arts Centre. “In this play whatever can go wrong will go wrong, but it’s also it’s a collection of anecdotes that people have experienced in theatre, so we just take those ideas and make it comedic, and we’ve got cast and crew coming in and out, almost like a French farce, in their own little

worlds and clashing all the time,” he said. “So, if you’ve ever felt like you’re the only sane person in the room, this play is for you.” Mr Sanderson also encouraged people to join MATES as part of the crew and videography and support community theatre. “We’re looking for crew for our next production which is going to be much bigger and we’re looking for videographers to take videos of our whole process to share on our social media. We have broadcast quality equipment for this purpose,” he said. To stay up to date with ‘How Bard Can It Get?”, visit MATES Facebook page or the Mission Arts website at www.missionarts.org.au

‘How Bard Can It Get?’ cast Jeff McLaughlin, Don Sanderson, Chloe, Grace and Anita Stapley, Pam Galeano, Celeste Galeano, Gay Stevenson, Carol Giuliany and Patrick Liddle.

www.cairnslocalnews.com.au

Time Out

FRI 23 FEB

Canadian harpist Josh Layne will be visiting Cairns for an intimate concert next month. Picture: Supplied

Musician to offer special performance

FRI 1 MAR

l STRATFORD

SAT 2 MAR

Plucking at your strings | Isabella Guzman Gonzalez THE time is coming for Cairns’ harp lovers to be enchanted by the beautiful harmonies of internationally-renowned harpist Josh Layne who will be performing an intimate concert at Stratford Library this March. Organised by local harpist collective FNQ Harp Connection, Canadian harpist, composer and harp teacher Josh Layne will be enthralling audiences with a beautiful performance at Stratford Library on March 3, and harp workshop and one-onone classes for local harpists of all levels the following day. President and co-founder of FNQ Harp Connection Natalia Mann said it was very exciting to have a harpist of the calibre of Josh Layne in Cairns. “Harp Connection has been trying to bring more harp music up to the Far North so we’re very excited to have Josh Layne. We’ve invited to come

as part of his Australian tour and he agreed,” she said. “He’ll be doing a concert at Stratford Library at 2pm on Sunday, March 3, and the next day he will give a couple of workshops for local harpists, so a lot of harpists are coming from Mossman, the Tablelands and possibly even Townsville because he’s an accomplished harpist with all this international knowledge. “It’s proven that harp music relaxes your nervous system and we all can do with a little relaxation, so it’s very exciting to be able to hear beautiful music from such an international artist,” she said. Ms Mann said Mr Layne’s visit would be particularly inspiring for local harpists. “The harp can be a lonely instrument and being so far away from metropolitan areas, not having that company or someone to help you if your string breaks makes a lot of people quit on this dream,” she said. “Having someone like Josh

come along is inspiring for experienced harpists and that’s something that we can pass down to our students and they get inspired by someone who comes from out of town. It makes them feel like they can reach those goals.” With a very enriching program for March, including her own Cassowary Coast tour, Ms Mann encouraged people to keep up to date with Harp Connection and see Josh Layne live. “From March 6-8 I’ll be doing my first Cassowary Coast tour with my own repertoire along with amazing kuku yalanji vocalist Merindi Schrieber. So join us,” she said. “And if you want to experience beautiful harp music from a world-class musician in a space where you’re so close that you can almost touch the harp get your tickets because they are limited.”

FRI 15 MAR

FRI16 23MAR FEB SAT

To buy tickets and find out more, visit www.fnqharpconnection.org

FRI 22 MAR

tanksartscentre.com 9-11 Florence Street, Cairns |

www.cairnslocalnews.com.au

Cairns Local News, Friday, February 9, 2024 PAGE 21

WHAT’S ON

For more events visit cairnscalendar.com.au

STREET FOOD FESTIVAL @ RILEY l FRI FEB 9, 5:00PM-9:00PM

Experience the hustle and bustle of the magnetic streets of Asia from the Paper Crane deck and celebrate the Year of the Dragon. Paper Crane by Crystalbrook presents a hawker-style market in celebration of Lunar New Year. Enjoy a vibrant evening under the stars with friends and family, with hawker market style pop-up food and drink stalls, dynamic cultural performances including Lion dancers, drumming and more, live music and DJs and plenty of entertainment for the whole family. Cost: Entry is free For more information visit Crystalbrook Riley’s website.

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

FRIDAY Surf Club Palm Cove The Dannies, 2:00pm Dunwoody’s Hotel Gumpy Savidas, 4:00pm L’Unico Sax Man, 4:30pm

CHINESE NEW YEAR @ REEF HOTEL CASINO l SAT FEB 10, 8:00PM-10:00PM

Join us for a traditional Lion Dance around The Reef Hotel Casino complex. According to traditional Chinese belief, the lion signifies courage, stability and superiority. The lion’s dance is performed to chase away ghosts and evil spirits, and since the monsters, ghosts, evil spirits and giants like Nian are afraid of loud noises, the dance has become a natural complement to the firecrackers’ noise. Clashing cymbals, a gong and drums usually accompany this lively scene. For more information visit The Reef Hotel Casino website.

The Benson Hotel Andrea, 5:00pm German Club Cairns An evening with Bach, 5:00pm Ten 06 Christina Ukulele, 5:30pm Brothers Leagues Club Cairns Two Dogs, 6:00pm Mayhems Wind and Wood, 6:00pm Cazaly’s Cairns Hot Ice, 6:30pm Tanks Arts Centre Eddie Skiba, 7:00pm Tanks Arts Centre Skunkhour, 7:30pm Edge Hill Tavern DJ Noiz, Donell Lewis, Pieter T, 8:00pm Bar36 Reef Hotel Casino Sanchez, 9:00pm

CHINESE NEW YEAR DAY @ CAIRNS ESPLANADE l SAT FEB 10, 6:00PM-9:30PM

It’s time to celebrate Chinese New Year! Join CADCAI as it welcomes the first day of Lunar New Year with traditional Dragon and Lion Dance blessings, drumming and firecrackers to bring good luck and scare away the evil spirits. You will have the opportunity to meet and greet the auspicious lions and feed them with hongbao (lucky red packets), and be blessed with good fortune, happiness and prosperity for the coming year. For more information visit the CADCAI website.

SATURDAY Ellis Beach Bar & Grill Abi Muir Duo, 2:00pm Yorkeys Knob Boating Club Marty Bell, 3:00pm The Benson Hotel DrewBoy, 5:00pm The Crown Hotel Cairns Janna Mercedes, 5:30pm Cazalys Cairns Carrizma, 6:15pm

WATERCOLOUR CLASSES @ ARTISTS@WORK l SAT FEB 10, 10:30AM-12:30PM

Learn some Basic skills and techniques for painting with watercolours, and create your own masterpiece to take home with you in this fun and friendly art class! All tools and equipment supplied. No artistic skills or experience required. Cost: $50 per person - limited seats – bookings essential. Book your spot by phoning Tennille – 0488 242 498. For more information visit Tennille Tobin – Art & Design Facebook page.

Brothers Leagues Club Cairns Denim Blues, 6:30pm CPAC Theatre Taylor Made, 7:30pm Red Beret Hotel MOEFO, 8:00pm Bar36 Reef Hotel Casino Funhouse, 9:00pm

SUNDAY Dunwoody’s Hotel The Vibes, 2:00pm O’Donnell’s Palm Cove The Blues Healers, 2:00pm

CHINESE NEW YEAR LUNCH @ LITTLE SISTER l SUN FEB 11, 11:00AM-2:00PM

Yorkeys Knob Boating Club Tanya Murphy, 3:00pm Bar36 Reef Hotel Casino The Rockmans, 7:30pm

Celebrate Year of the Dragon and ring in Chinese New Year with a Little Sister / Wolf Lane collaboration! You’ll enjoy 3 delicious courses + 3 delicious cocktails. Cost: Only $80 per person. Time: Bookings available 11am – 2pm Reservations essential. Reserve your spot through Little Sister.

SUPER BOWL LIVE @ CASINO SPORTS ARENA l MON FEB 12, 10:00AM-2:00PM

Watch the Super Bowl live & loud at the Casino Sports Arena at The Reef Hotel Casino! Hungry? Flinders Bar & Grill Super Bowl Special – Pulled Pork Burger + Jack Daniels & mixer for $25! For more information visit The Reef Hotel Casino website.

PAGE 22 Cairns Local News, Friday, February 9, 2024

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.

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Take a minute... Puzzles for you Friday 9th Max 33o Min 24o

Tide Times 0215 0.24 0907 3.45 1505 0.92 2050 2.65

Saturday 10th Max 33o Min 23o

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Sunday 11th Max 33o Min 24o

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SUDOKU

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MEDIUM #171

Wednesday 14th Max 31o Min 25o

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Enter digits from 1 to 9 into the blank spaces. Every row must contain one of each digit. So must every column, as must every 3x3 square.

EASY #171

Tuesday 13th Max 31o Min 24o

Tide Times 0000 2.39 0555 1.15 1219 2.64 1846 1.19

WORD SEARCH

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Weekly Horoscopes CROSSWORD Taurus

Gemini

Mar 21 to Apr 20

Apr 21 to May 20

May 21 to Jun 21

You’ll only hurt your lover if you don’t. Don’t get upset. You mustn’t give too much to your children. You will attract potential lovers, but be sure that they’re unattached.

You need to be sure that you aren’t in your present relationship because it is convenient. The knowledge you have will enhance your reputation. Get involved in groups that can offer intellectual stimulation. Someone you care about may not be too well.

You will have no trouble getting things to fall into place. Sort situations out as best you can. Watch your spending habits. Make decisions about your professional objectives. You need to get down to basics regarding yourself.

Cancer

Leo

Virgo

Jun 22 to Jul 22

Jul 23 to Aug 22

Aug 23 to Sep 22

Get into some activities that will help you in making new friends. Someone you care about may not be too pleased with you. You can offer your help to others but back off if they appear to be offended by your persistence. You will be on the rampage this week.

Visit friends or relatives you rarely see. Visit friends or relatives who have been confirmed. You will reap the benefits if you put money into upgrading your residence. Social gatherings will be conducive to meeting new potential mates.

You need a change, and you need to earn more cash. Concentrate on spending quality time with children. Your energetic nature and ability to initiate projects will add to your popularity. You must strive to get the most important projects completed properly, rather than doing everything half-baked.

Scorpio

Sagi arius

Libra

Sep 23 to Oct 22

Oct 23 to Nov 21

Pamper yourself; the self-esteem it brings you will be most gratifying. Try to stay calm and do the best you can. Opportunities to expand your circle of friends will result in possible new romantic encounters. Don’t let your emotions take over.

Opportunities for financial gains through investments and games of chance are likely. Get domestic chores out of the way early. Your charisma will no doubt attract a lot of attention. You need some rest.

Capricorn

Aquarius

Nov 22 to Dec 20

You may be admired by colleagues and employers for your diplomatic way of handling your work. Curb the impulse to make lavish purchases and spend some time with good friends. Be careful not to let friends or peers make you look bad. You will have no problem getting your point across to those able to help.

Pisces

Dec 21 to Jan 19

Jan 20 to Feb 18

Feb 19 to Mar 20

Don’t push your luck with authority figures. Need some adventure in your life? Exotic destinations beckon you. Money can be made if you are willing to take a chance. Take the time to sort out your personal papers and double-check your financial investments.

Your need to obtain additional details will lead you into strange topics of conversation. Try not to be too lavish with your lover. New romantic partners will evolve through group endeavours; however, the association may not be likely to last. Make sure that all your legal papers are in proper order.

You will be able to get to the bottom of things this week. Don’t jump too quickly regarding an investment that appears to be good. Make sure that new mates live up to your high standards. You could lose money or precious belongings if you aren’t careful.

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Tide Times 0118 2.23 0658 1.58 1315 2.26 2021 1.30

HARD #171

Solutions Aries

Thursday 15th Max 30o Min 25o

Glue Hoe Jig Knife Lathe Machete Mallet Nail

Nut Pin Plane Plow Pry bar Rasp Razor Reamer

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stay green all year round (6) 26. a patty of shredded fish and mashed potato (4,4) 27. relating to the ideas, customs, and social behaviour of a society (8) 28. to cause severe and extensive damage to (6) DOWN

ACROSS 8. a species of long-necked sheep native to South America (6) 9. the state of being seriously mentally ill (8) 10. in or to whatever place (emphasizing a lack of restriction) (8) 11. a line drawn on a weather map connecting places having the same atmospheric pressure (6) 12. moved or jumped suddenly or rapidly upwards or forwards (6) 13. cause oneself to consider something (8) 14. a person who disbelieves or lacks belief in the existence of God or gods (7) 16. a small tropical insect that eats wood (7) 20. used to describe something that develops very fast (8) 23. a technology used to connect to the internet using a standard telephone line (4-2) 25. a type of bush with small leaves that

1. the most interesting or memorable part (4,4) 2. a large amphibious South American rodent with webbed hind feet (6) 3. a city in southeastern Nevada, known for its casinos and elaborate hotels (3,5) 4. a microorganism, especially a bacterium causing disease or fermentation (7) 5. a short-sleeved casual top, generally made of cotton (1-5) 6. the principle or policy of forming or adhering to a union (8) 7. an aggressive and violent act against a person or place (6) 15. an aggressive and violent act against a person or place (8) 17. make someone feel drained of energy or vitality (3,5) 18. money paid for the conveyance of goods on a truck (8) 19. a short, disorganized fight (7) 21. a prolonged and angry reprimand (6) 22. a machine having a part that moves around in a circle (6) 24. a recess in the wall of a room or garden (6)

Cairns Local News, Friday, February 9, 2024 PAGE 23

Motoring FNQ tour operator adds first of three electric coaches l SUSTAINABILITY | Nick Dalton COACH and tour operator Tropic Wings has taken delivery of its first of three Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) as part of its revolutionising sustainable tourism and transport project. Tropic Wings general manager Colin Anderson said the firm was the first and only tour operator in Australia to integrate fully electric coaches into its tours. “With our 'no emission mission,' we are excited to be at the forefront of environmental initiatives, and the addition of these BEVs to our fleet marks a significant step towards achieving our goal of becoming 80 per cent electric by 2028,” he said. “This commitment to eco-friendly practices is, not just a statement, but a pledge to redefine the norms of the tourism and

coach transport industries." Mr Anderson said the new BEVs would be used on trips to iconic destinations of the region, including the Daintree rainforest, Mossman Gorge and Kuranda, offering tourists a unique and environmentallyconscious travel experience. “In conjunction with the arrival of the new fully electric coaches, Tropic Wings is delighted to announce the launch of a new tour commencing on February 1 – the Daintree, Mossman Gorge and wildlife tour,” he said. “It will become an exciting addition to Tropic Wings tour options, providing visitors with an immersive experience at Mossman Gorge, unforgettable wildlife encounters at Wildlife Habitat Port Douglas, and a crocodile cruise on the Daintree River. “The new coaches have

undergone thorough trials and testing on their designated tour routes, guaranteeing top-tier performance for upcoming eco-friendly journeys.” CaPTA sales and marketing director Ben Woodward said the BEVs aligned “with our commitment to providing diverse and eco-conscious tourism experiences". “The tour, not only explores World Heritagelisted regions, but also marks a pioneering move in eco-tourism, with Tropic Wings set to be the first in Australia – and potentially the world – to operate a fully emission-free coach for a tour of this kind,” he said. “Tropic Wings remains dedicated to pushing the boundaries of sustainable tourism and offering travellers unforgettable journeys that respect and preserve the beauty of Australia's natural treasures”.

Tropic Wings general manager Colin Anderson (left), operations and fleet manager Adam Pearen, and assistant operations manager Hayden Kingham with the first of the BEV buses.

January sales a record as customers snap up SUVs and dual-cab 4WD utes

Buyers lose interest in EVs l CAR MARKET | Nick Dalton SALES of electric vehicles have plateaued with an automotive industry leader warning that buyers still preferred SUVs and utes. While January sales of 89,782 new vehicles were a record, 5.8 per cent more than January 2023 and breaking the previous January record of 88,551 set in 2018, the tough economic climate as well as a drop of interest in electric cars created challenges for the industry, said Federal Cham-

ber of Automotive Industries chief executive Tony Weber. He said 2023’s demand for new vehicles continued into 2024 with many businesses and families taking ownership of a new vehicle in January, but there were concerns for the outlook of 2024 given current economic conditions. The record January result was underpinned by continued customer preference for SUV and light commercial vehicles. SUVs accounted for 55.5 per cent of sales while light commercials were 22.9 per cent. Passenger

vehicles made up 18.3 per cent of sales. Low emission vehicles remained popular, with hybrids, plug-in hybrid and battery electric vehicles making up 17.4 per cent of sales, while battery electric vehicles represented 5.4 per cent. “The continuing preference for SUVs and utes demonstrates the challenges the commonwealth government is facing as it works to introduce a New Vehicle Emissions Standard (NVES),” Mr Weber said. “Industry wants an emissions

standard that is ambitious without limiting the choice and increasing the cost of the vehicles Australians need and want,” he said. “Even with the current incentives offered by the commonwealth and state and territory governments, sales of battery electric vehicles appear to have plateaued during recent months. “For more than a year the industry has been sharing information with the government about what is happening in the suburbs and regions around the country and the preferences and chal-

lenges facing families and businesses. “Good policy must reflect reality rather than a desktop exercise that makes assumptions about what the world can look like, and we strongly urge the government to share its modelling with us.” Toyota was the market leader with recorded sales of 17,903, followed by Mazda (8165), Ford (6624), Hyundai (6162) and Mitsubishi (5911). The Ford Ranger was Australia’s top selling vehicle with sales of 4747, followed by the

Toyota HiLux (4092), Toyota Landcruiser (2541), Isuzu Ute D-Max (2541) and Toyota RAV4 (2211). Sales in Western Australia increased by 25.4 per cent compared with January 2023. Queensland was up 5.4 per cent, South Australia by 3.7 per cent, Victoria by 6.3 per cent and NSW by 1.2 per cent. Northern Territory recorded an increase of 11.6 per cent while sales in the ACT decreased by 7.5 per cent compared with January 2023. Tasmania also recorded a decrease of 1.1 per cent.

GOODYEAR AUTOCARE CAIRNS NOW OPEN! Cairns’s newest family owned tyre store... WE ARE HERE

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Corner Sheridan & Florence Sts, Cairns | (07) 4026 4121 PAGE 24 Cairns Local News, Friday, February 9, 2024

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Motoring Guide

Ducati Cairns roars to life

New Bungalow showroom officially opens as riders welcome Italian brand l NEW DEALERSHIP | Nick Dalton

KL Performance Industry dancers at the opening of the new Ducati Cairns dealership with (from left) Felix Wong, Ducati Australia and New Zealand team of Dean Kurz, Davide Tartaglia and Sergi Canovas Garriga as well as Ducati Cairns owner Alan Ren.

AFTER three years in the making, Cairns Cars has opened Ducati Cairns, a Ducati motorbikes showroom at 325 Mulgrave Rd. There was a private launch Friday last week with the showroom full of Ducati enthusiasts, performance dancers, fine catering, and ribbon cutting ceremony with Ducati Australia and New Zealand managing director Sergi Canovas The 200sqm showroom features the complete range of Ducati bikes from the adventurous Dessert X to the sporty Panigale V4S. It also displays the latest range of Ducati apparel and accessories. Cairns Cars and Ducati Cairns owner Alan Ren said from the Kuranda and Gillies range to the Daintree, the Far North had some of the best roads in Australia for riding. “We expect that Ducati owners all over Australia will venture north to ride now that there is a new home for them to service their bikes,” he said. “Cars is a need but a Ducati motorbike is a want, it’s something people aspire to own. I look forward to showcasing our range of motorcycles to the Cairns community.

“Audi and Ducati are sister companies and represent the same core values. “As the Audi dealer in Cairns, I was presented with this opportunity three years ago to open a Ducati showroom. “I thought that’s interesting, it’s a prestige brand, it aligns with the values of all my other car brands, so it was a match made in heaven.” Mr Canovas said he was excited to open “the first proper Ducati dealership in Cairns”. “It gives a chance for Ducati enthusiasts to experience the brand as it is. The Ducati brand is defined by our core values which is style, sophistication and performance,” he said. “So anything we do with the bikes or anything we do with the brand has to have these key values included. “For example, if you look at this dealership it is very stylish and shows the brand, it shows performance bikes but the performance of the team running the showroom and servicing is very important also, and I believe we have one of the best teams in town. “Then with sophistication, not only is our brand an example of fine quality and craftsmanship, but on the dealership level we want to also provide this sophistication on the client experience.”

2023

PLATE RUNOUT

HUGE SAVINGS

on 2023 BMW vehicles and BMW Motorrad bikes currently in-stock, either new or demonstrator.

Hurry! Come see Grant and his team today or call him on 0488 794 030 Westco BMW | 07 4020 8996 | 207-209 Newell Street Cairns www.cairnslocalnews.com.au

Cairns Local News, Friday, February 9, 2024 PAGE 25

Motoring Guide

Change in name only

Cairns Mazda sign of the times l BUSINESS UPGRADE | Nick Dalton THE re-naming of the biggest Mazda dealership in the Far North from Westco Mazda to Cairns Mazda does not change the way the local family-owned business is successfully operated. The Newell St dealership had been Westco Mazda since 1990 and owned by the Barry family since 1983. Cairns Mazda general manager Scott King said the new moniker reflected Mazda Australia’s policy of naming the dealership after its location. He said as the Balaclava firm was the only Mazda dealership in the city it was named after Cairns. “It links the brand to the location in the same way as Mareeba Mazda and Innisfail Mazda. In Brisbane, for example, the dealerships are named after the suburb they are in, such as Asply Mazda and Mount Gravatt Mazda,” Mr King said. “It doesn’t change the way we have successfully operated the business with more than 100 staff across six new brands and used cars,” he said. “We are family-owned and family run. You will still see the same friendly faces our customers see every day.” Mr King said the Barry family had a long association with Mazda dating

57 years. “My late grandfather, David Barry, was one of the first importers of Mazda into Australia with multiple dealerships across Queensland, including the Cairns area,” he said. Mr King said Cairns Mazda was now regarded as a metropolitan dealer, selling up to 770 new Mazdas a year. “We’ve built two new bigger Mazda showrooms over the years, an investment of several million dollars, in 2001 and 2020,” he said. “Since the move to the Newell St premises we have had an uplift in sales. “We have a dedicated team of 28 at Mazda across sales, parts and service. “My father Chris King is the dealerprincipal, and our sales manager is Darrell Callaghan.” Mr King said it was an exciting time for Mazda with a roll-out of large luxury SUVs such as the CX-60 and CX-90 as well as the CX-80 in the third quarter of this year and the CX-70 probably by the end of the year. “Our biggest seller continues to be the CX-5, but other popular models include the BT-50 ute, the CX-30 SUV, Mazda 3 and Mazda 6 passenger cars and the smallest SUV, the CX-3 – and not forgetting the iconic MX-5 roadster,” he said.

PAGE 26 Cairns Local News, Friday, February 9, 2024

Cairns Mazda sales manager Darrell Callaghan and general manager Scott King with the new Cairns Mazda sign.

www.cairnslocalnews.com.au

Real Estate Cairns Central sold to Melbourne-based property fund manager for $390m

Owners to take over in Feb l CAIRNS CBD | Nick Dalton SETTLEMENT of the $390 million Cairns Central shopping centre sale to Melbourne-based fund manager Fawkner Property is expected to take place later this month. It was bought off Lendlease-managed Australian Prime Property Fund Retail (APPF Retail). Cairns Central is the largest shopping centre in the Far North and covers 51,972 sqm and more than 186 tenants. APPF Retail fund manager Anne MacSporran said the sale attracted a high level of interest from prospective buyers for Cairns Central, which was soughtafter due to its location in one of Australia’s largest regional cities with strong growth forecasts, and a high-quality retail mix which had seen the centre become a desired lifestyle, entertainment and fashion destination for residents and tourists. Settlement is expected to oc-

The new owners of Cairns Central shopping centre – Fawkner Property – are expected to take over the property later this month after it was sold for $390m late this year.

cur in late February. Lachlan MacGillivray of Colliers International and Sam McVay of McVay Real Estate managed the sale. “The sale of Cairns Central is a strong result for APPF Retail investors, particularly in light of market conditions experienced throughout 2023. With the strategic divestment of this asset, APPF Retail will be able to close out the remaining redemption requests in the fund, providing liquidity to those investors who requested it,” Ms MacSporran said. “The outlook for Australian retail is positive. With sales having rebounded strongly post pandemic, and now stabilising to more normalised levels, the sector is supported by robust retail fundamentals, with growing demand and limited supply of retail space being one of the driving forces for future growth,” she said. “APPF Retail is in a strong position to execute its prime urban growth centre strategy, which focuses on owning and

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BELVEDERE – LIVE OR INVEST

INNISFAIL HOME

Land Area 791 Sqm

• Three bedrooms,two with built-ins. • Indoor stairwell

$395,000

$280,000

List #1649

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

Contact Kylie on 0428 944 563

Land Area 911 Sqm

This double storey Queensland home is a perfect blend of comfort and style, catering to a variety of living needs.

• 3 bedrooms, entertainment area or possible 4th bedroom. • Airconditioned main bedroom, living & entertainment area. • Family sized home with enclosed patio. • 3 car garage with 1 auto door. • 1 bathroom and extra vanity & toilet for those busy mornings. • 791sqm corner block – side yard fenced for pets. Call one of our team members today to arrange an inspection.

www.cairnslocalnews.com.au

developing multi-purpose assets that dominate their trade areas and drive high-value visitation across a broad mix of shoppers and other customers.” CBRE’s head of Pacific retail capital markets Simon Rooney said opportunities to acquire a 100 per cent freehold interest in a market leading regional shopping centre with management rights were rare. “Fawkner Property securing two such opportunities at Midland Gate Perth and Cairns Central demonstrates their strategic and counter-cyclical investment approach,” he said. Fawkner Property also owns Earlville Shopping Town, previously Stockland Cairns. It paid $146 million for the centre in late 2021. Cairns Central is strategically located within the CBD, is the only regional shopping centre within 350km and is the major shopping destination for Far North Queensland. The centre is ranked first across all regional shopping centres within Queensland for turnover.

• Tiled front patio • One Garage plus one Carport

Call to arrange an inspection today! List #1664 https://aarealty.net/property/1664/

Contact Zoe on 0490 020 644

Cairns Local News, Friday, February 9, 2024 PAGE 27

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