Cairns Local News June 09 2023

Local News Cairns

Disabled pensioner struggles to find spaces close to Cairns Hospital

It’s parking hell

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

A DISABLED pensioner with chronic health conditions has launched a campaign for better and more parking close to Cairns Hospital, especially for patients with mobility problems.

After being fined for illegal parking during an emergency, Manunda resident Raymond Gaffney is asking Cairns Regional Council for better allocation of disability parking bays in and around the hospital.

The 84-year-old is a regular hospital visitor and can’t walk more than 20m unaided. He also suffers chronic bladder issues that create an uncontrollable urgency.

Mr Gaffney said attending his appointments had become a hellish experience due to the lack of parking.

On May 11, he looked for a parking space on the Esplanade for over 30 minutes when urgency hit. Fearing he would soil himself, he parked illegally and rushed to find a toilet. He was fined.

“The spot where I usually park was full, so I parked behind it, approximately a foot away from the footpath on the

yellow line,” he said. “I expected to get a parking ticket, but the Commonwealth law has a fundamental basis of intent. If you don’t intend to commit an offence contrary to the rules, there’s no offence.

“There was no intent on my part to commit an offence. I intended to get to a toilet and get to my appointment.”

Mr Gaffney emailed the hospital, the council, councillors, and other organisations to

fight the ticket, warning that he would escalate it to the High Court.

“Whatever they said, it’s a hospital,” he said.

“All those spaces right at the front of block B should be dis-

Healthy fig tree in spotlight

l CAIRNS CBD

| Nick Dalton

A MUCH-loved fig tree in the centre of Cairns has been saved. Works to rejuvenate the site around a tree at the heritage-listed Cairns City Library site have been completed.

The large fig tree located on Lake St at the rear of the City Library site, referred to as T5, had been fenced off and was facing possible removal after years of decline.

However, following Cairns Regional Council’s successful flying fox relocation program in 2020, the tree showed marked signs of recovery, allowing it to be retained.

As part of the process, council officers met Cairns and Far North Environment Centre (CAFNEC) representatives to discuss options and measures to protect and support the tree.

Deputy Mayor Terry James said the completion of the rejuvenation works had created a safe and appealing space around the tree.

ability designated parking.

“There is not enough provision of disability parking for acutely disabled people who need to be as close to the service as they can.”

CONTINUED PAGE 3

“Just three years ago the tree looked sick, and the site could not be used by the public due to safety concerns related to the possibility of falling branches,” he said.

Cr James said today it was healthier, with a new fence around the tree for safety and landscaping works.

l CAIRNS NORTH

Raymond Gaffney of Manunda outside Cairns Hospital where he says there is not enough disabled carparks. Picture: Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

AFL rallies around teen

l REDLYNCH

| Nick Dalton

AFL Cape York House – for Girls (AFLCYHG) has been rocked by the sudden news that one of their young students has been diagnosed with leukaemia.

In consideration of cultural needs, and at the family’s request, her name will not be disclosed. She is a 16-year-old year 11 student from Badu Island in the Torres Strait.

Boarding manager Sean Hunter said the student was known for her bright, positive, and bubbly nature. Immediately following her diagnosis, she was urgently transferred to Brisbane Children’s Hospital, where she commenced chemotherapy and treatment support.

He said currently the young student and her mother live in long-term accommodation at Ronald McDonald House.

He said staff members and young students had rallied together and initiated AFLCYHG ‘Buzz and Cut’ to raise muchneeded funds to support the student and her family.

l FNQ

RAINFOREST Aboriginal people are to be given more say in how the Wet Tropics of Queensland is managed.

The Wet Tropics Management Authority, the statutory body established under the Wet Tropics World Heritage Protection and Management Act 1993, and Terrain NRM, a not-for-profit environmental management organisation that

“Her family has had a very strong connection with AFL Cape York over many years. Her brother and sister have previously represented the Crusaders in the AFL Cape York Game Development Program and in 2021 her elder sister graduated

from AFL Cape York House –for Girls,” Mr Hunter said.

“AFL Cape York House – for Girls considers itself a home away from home for its students and has fostered family-like connections that run deep.

“At first, three staff members

jumped on board to ‘buzz’ their hair to outwardly signal they are with their dear friend every step, but now we have 23 staff and young people ready to show their support,” Mr Hunter said.

He said a long-term staff member, Wanda Pone, is the

only female cutting to the chase and shaving off all her hair. Staff member Brad Campbell is shaving off his moustache, which he has not cut in more than 18 years since he was 16. Also, Dylan Burns, who has been growing his hair over the past decade, has committed to shaving off the ponytail.

Mr Hunter’s son, Noah, 6, is shaving his head as well because he’s got a connection with the older sister and wants to show his support.

“Our primary objective is to raise funds to provide crucial support to the student and her family throughout her highly unexpected treatment journey,” he said. “The purpose of why we created this fundraising initiative was to be able to show her our support, but also to be able to provide her and her family additional support given the challenges that they face in the upcoming months.”

Money raised will also assist relatives from the Torres Strait to visit Brisbane.

The event is at AFL Cape York House - for Girls today (Friday, June 9) from 2.30pm

is one of Australia’s leading natural resource management bodies, have partnered to form a new Indigenous advisory committee.

Authority’s board chairwoman Chrissy Grant (right) said the authority and Terrain NRM had “identified a critical need for a coordinated approach to ensure the rights, interests and priorities of rainforest Aboriginal

peoples are included in the planning, design and delivery of organisational plans, policies, and programs at a strategic level.”

“The boards of both organisations have approved a proposal to establish a skills-based committee to advise on the strategic and operational priorities across the Wet Tropics biocultural region,” she said.

Terrain NRM board director Barry Hunter said the committee was “not expected to be representative and will not replace any existing committees”.

“The boards and the organisations will continue to engage with rainforest Aboriginal peoples on issues that matter to them as we do now,” he said.

“This non-statutory advisory committee is being established to ensure the views, interests and aspirations of rainforest

Aboriginal peoples are included in the delivery of strategic plans and programs of the authority and terrain.

“To reduce duplication of effort for rainforest Aboriginal peoples and strengthen coordination, the two organisations would like to establish this group together,” Mr Hunter said.

Expressions of interest from rainforest Aboriginal peoples to join the committee will be called from next month.

Brad Campbell, Sodyla Kris, Dylan Burns, Sean Hunter, Luana Healey, Noah Hunter, Pauline Seden and Wanda Pone are taking part in the AFL House for Girls buzz and cut event day. Picture: Supplied

‘We want cash back’

Ratepayers call on Cassowary council to reverse payments policy

l INNISFAIL

| Nick Dalton

CASSOWARY Coast residents are putting pressure on the regional council to reverse a decision of refusing to accept cash for payments.

They are hoping the council will follow Cairns Regional Council which reversed its decision with a win for people power in April.

The council’s website says from July 1, 2022, the local government “will no longer accept payments by cash or cheque at our customer service centres and other council run facilities.”

The petition reads: “This decision impacts our youth, the vulnerable, is discriminative, unpractical, undemocratic and controlling … we the undersigned residents petition to the Cassowary Coast Regional Council that cash payments (legal tender) be re-instated at all CCRC facilities.”

Eubenangee resident and petitioner Karen Benn said following a 5000-signature petition, neighbouring Cairns council opted to return cash at its facilities in April, after beginning its transition towards electronic transactions in 2019, and she was hopeful a similar outcome could be achieved further south.

Dr Benn said volunteers who were distributing petition forms were being treated “like rockstars” in each Cassowary Coast town, where the forms were now available at pubs, cafes, service stations, bakeries and most small businesses.

“Our fear is if our government is doing this, other businesses might follow. But it should always be our choice.

“The council might tell us only 9 per cent of people are using cash, but if you look through their statements they’re hammering diversity and inclusiveness in all departments, so is it OK to discriminate against that 9 per cent?

“I know people with disabilities who can work with cash, they know what they’re doing, but they’re unable to operate computers and cards, and the elderly are the same.”

Dr Benn said the petition started with one person – Sharron Haddock.

“Then it grew with willing volunteers in a week. We now have 12 volunteer team members spread out across the region who have already collected over 1000 signatures,” she said.

Dr Benn said the Cassowary

Coast was a high risk disaster zone and after losing power when a cyclone hit people only had cash to buy necessities for days.

She said the council was not representing the people and the decision was not voted on by councillors.

Kattar’s Australian Party MP Bob Katter is backing the petition.

He recently fought to keep the Westpac branch open at Tully, as well as Ingham and Cloncurry, and said he strongly opposed the removal of cash transactions from communities.

“As it stands, cash is legal tender,” Mr Katter said. “This is a scary pathway to be moving down, because when your money is in the bank, the bank controls it, not you.

With cash, you control it.

Mr Katter said he urged the CCRC to listen to its residents and reverse its decision of going cashless.

A council spokeswoman said there were many ways for customers to pay the council, including in person using EFTPOS via the council’s online portal, at Australia Post outlets, telephone banking or setting up direct debit for rates payments.

She said Australia Post BillPay was available at 12 Australia Post offices throughout the Cassowary Coast with payments taken over the counter via cash, cheque, EFTPOS, credit card or debit card and the Innisfail and Tully administration centres to take payments over the counter.

“Council is not advocating for a cashless society and

Local Briefs

l QUAKE SHAKES CITY

RESIDENTS across Cairns felt a moderate earthquake on Wednesday night. According to the Australian Government’s Geoscience website, a 4.3 magnitude earthquake struck 10km beneath the Coral Sea, about 130km east of Cairns, at 10.13pm. The website showed that 24 people registered feeling the shock as of 10am yesterday.

l SCIENTIFIC DIVERS

MORE than 100 diving doctors have visited the Great Barrier Reef for the 51st annual South Pacific Underwater Medicine Society’s (SPUMS) scientific meeting. They took part in an exclusive charter with Reef Magic, visiting the reef up close, as well as addresses by keynote speakers and presentations of scientific paperts at Crystalbrook Riley hotel. Delegates came from as far away as Canada, the US and the UK.

acknowledges cash as a legal tender, however acknowledges the growing preference for the majority of our ratepayers,” the spokeswoman said.

“It is not within the remit of council to advocate for a cashless society and we do not presume to do so.

“We have considered the use of cash within council operations only.

“During natural disasters, council will be flexible and ensure emergency arrangements are in place during these periods.

“Council has not received a petition and any petition would be considered.”

People are encouraged to sign the online petition at https://www.petitions.net/cassowary_coast_bring_ back_cash

Senior citizen starts disabled parking campaign

FROM PAGE 1

“They don’t care. It’s only my wife and me. I drive myself to appointments.

“Rent and electricity account for 80 per cent of our pay cheques.

“We can’t afford to get a taxi to drop us off.”

Although at this stage Mr Gaffney won’t be escalating his complaint he did encourage locals with disabilities to join the fight for better parking conditions.

“Complain, complain, complain.

There needs to be community involvement to get things going,” he said.

A hospital spokeswoman said: “We recognise that parking near the hospital can sometimes be a challenging experience for our patients”.

“Parks for people with a disability are all in very close proximity to the hospital via the Esplanade, Lake St and Grove St,” she said.

“The Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation also provides parking at the

Digger St car park with discounted rates for pensioners and health care concession card holders.”

The council responded via a letter to Mr Gaffney on May 25 that the ticket had been withdrawn “as a gesture of goodwill”, but he couldn’t be exempt from being fined.

Additionally, council’s director of lifestyle and community Destry Puia said: “Council officers always show empathy for challenging or emergency sce-

narios”, but infringement notices must be served when parking regulations are breached.

“There are 16 on-street disability bays located at the hospital, including five just to the left of the main entrance, another six directly across the road (on the Esplanade), and five on Lake Street,” he said.

“There are also stop/drop zones fronting the Emergency Department and on Lake St for urgent situations.”

l CREEK UPGRADE

SALTWATER Creek in Cairns is to receive an Albanese governmentfunded $1.5 million clean-up to improve its water quality. OzFish, a not-for-profit organisation, will undertake the project to control aquatic weeds, plant native trees, and remove barriers to fish passage

l BLOOD DONATION PLEA

WITH the flu season approaching, Australian Red Cross Lifeblood is urging Cairns residents with blood types O and A to help prevent possible blood donor shortage in the coming weeks. Lifeblood is calling for 50 blood and plasma donors in Cairns in the next fortnight. Lifeblood spokeswman Belinda Smetioukh said data showed an increase in donation cancellations due to COVID-19, colds and cases of flu compared to last year. “We expect those cancellations to increase over the coming weeks, so we’re asking people with O and A blood types to book a donation,” she said. Make an appointment to donate this winter by calling 13 14 95, visiting lifeblood. com.au or using the Donate Blood app.

Some of the petitioners are (from left) Janelle Campbell, Neil Smith, Sharron Haddock, Dr Karen Benn, Tara Garozzo, Monique Young, Christine Nowell and Leonie Barra outside the Cassowary Coast Regional Council’s Innisfail headquarters. Picture: Supplied

Increasing costs to hit gaming venue’s profits Arrow walk benefits cancer

Year ahead to test casino

REEF Casino Trust chairman

Philip Basha has warned shareholders that after a record profit of nearly $18 million last year, the hotel-casino venue was facing increasing costs this year that would hit the bottom line.

“We think the Reef Casino Trust’s distributable profit for the first half year from 1 January 2023 to 30 June 2023 is estimated to be between $3.8 million and $4.8 million (compared to $6.562 million in 2022),” he told the annual meeting.

He said the first four months of 2023 were profitable and revenues at the Reef Hotel Casino were comparable to the same period as last year.

But costs had increased, Mr Basha said.

He said inflation was running high, electricity costs had increased sharply as well as insurance and risk management expenses.

Mr Basha said essential building maintenance works were underway as well.

“We expect that the second half year high season in Cairns will kick in,” he said. “There is

continuing economic uncertainty in the months ahead though.

“Inflation and higher costs are expected to continue.”

Trust executive director Allan Tan said 2022 was a record year with hotel and casino rentals paid to the trust totalling $30.347m compared to $26.760m in 2021.

“Our local, regional, Queensland and Australian domestic markets held up well for our complex in 2022,” he said.

“There were not many international tourists, even though Australia’s international borders had reopened.”

Mr Tan said electronic gaming was the biggest earner, performing “strongly”.

He said table gaming recorded “a strong overall result” with increased visitation from domestic patrons from

southern states. “Premium play was lower than last year as there were few international table games players in 2022,” Mr Tan said.

“Hotel revenues were higher with increased domestic travel.

“Strong hotel bookings from intra-state and interstate were experienced, resulting in a significant increase in room rate and occupancy.

“Sales throughout our food and beverage outlets also increased compared to the previous year.

“With regards to the matter of labour shortage, it was challenging, but manageable for us.

“We expect that the high season for Cairns will kick in the second half of the year albeit against a continuing uncertain economic backdrop.”

Sugar Solstice

l CAIRNS NORTH

HUNDREDS of breast cancer and melanoma patients in Far North Queensland are benefiting from fundraisers walking the arrow trails of Mt Whitfield last year.

A second set of neoprobes has been bought for breast cancer and melanoma patients by the Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation with money raised from the 2022 BDO Arrow Experience.

Cairns Hospital general and breast surgeon Dr Aemelia Melloy is one of several surgeons using the probes on lists of up to six patients a day, five days a week.

“We use the probes on most breast cancer patients, depending on what stage they are, as we can identify which lymph node the cancer will likely drain into and then remove it, thus making a significant difference to their longterm outcomes,” Dr Melloy said.

“Having a second set means that we can treat more patients in a short period of time while still allowing the equipment to be sterilised in between,” she said.

Foundation CEO Gina Hogan said the 2022 BDO Arrow Experience was

another successful event, both in terms of being a fun activity but also raising $87,000. This year’s BDO

Read, Learn, Create and Discover at Cairns Libraries!

Return yourself to Cairns Libraries and reconnect with community, learn new skills and hobbies, and return to routine with the wide variety of services and experiences available. Revive lost hobbies, or rediscover a love of learning, with collections of books, DVDs, CDs, magazines, audiobooks and more that are free with your library card. Beyond the collection, your local library also provides programs, events, and online resources for the whole family to discover. You never know what treasures you might find in our library collection!

FREE FIRST 5 FOREVER PROGRAM

Arrow Experience will be on Sunday, July 2. Sign up at www.arrowexperience.org.au

It’s never too early to talk, read, sing, play and share stories with your child. First 5 Forever is a family literacy program aimed at supporting stronger language and literacy environments for children aged 0-5 years and their families. Visit our website for more information about session dates, times and locations: www.cairns.qld.gov.au/library/whats-on/event-programs/first5forever

FREE EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES

Read, learn, create and discover at Cairns Libraries. Offering a wide range of events for all ages, Cairns Libraries provides you with opportunities to connect with ideas, themes, and personalities. Visit our What’s On page on our website for more information and to discover what’s coming up at your local library: www.cairns.qld.gov.au/library/whats-on

FREE ONLINE RESOURCES

Discover how easy it is to access the library from home 24/7. Our eLibrary collection includes eBooks, eAudiobooks, movies, TV shows, magazines and learning resources, such as online newspapers and family research archives. Visit the Cairns Libraries website to learn more about eLibrary collections: www.cairns.qld.gov.au/library/books-and-more/elibrary

www.cairns.qld.gov.au/library

Foundation CEO Gina Hogan, Cairns Hospital’s Dr Aemelia Melloy and BDO North Queensland CEO Stacey Young with the new neoprobe equipment. Picture: FNQ Hospital Foundation

Building maintenance at The Reef Hotel Casino is increasing expenses.

l CAIRNS CBD

| Nick Dalton

Cyclone resilience funding

l

FNQ

MORE Queenslanders will be eligible for assistance to make their homes stronger and safer in a much-welcome boost to a popular program helping to protect low-income homeowners in cyclone-prone coastal communities.

The Household Resilience Program, first launched by the Palaszczuk Government in 2018, has already assisted over 4300 vulnerable households to strengthen homes built before 1984 to better withstand extreme weather.

“The program also has a proven record of success in lowering insurance premiums with the most recent data reported from homeowners showing approved works achieved an average reduction of 10.3 per cent,” a joint federal and state government statement said.

“Now, thanks to a new $20 million funding boost from the Albanese government, the program will be extended by up to three years, so even more families can apply,” it said.

“It is expected the new funding will enable resilience works for up to 1100 more homes.”

Eligible works include roof, garage door and house frame upgrades and replacements and roof structural strengthening. For more information on the program visit: www.qld.gov.au/strongerhomes

Brave boy’s milestone

Five-year-old completes 68 rounds of chemotherapy treatment

l JULATTEN

|

Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

THE Leonardis of Julatten are celebrating the braveness and resilience of their five-year-old boy Sebastian, who has finished his 68th round of chemotherapy at Cairns Hospital.

Sebastian was diagnosed with brain cancer when he was only three-years-old in 2020. His fight against cancer inspired his mum Crystal to write two books, Boy of Steel and My Brother Sebastian, a guide for parents dealing with a cancer diagnosis in the family.

After a first unsuccessful round of chemo in 2020, a trial at Cairns Hospital with a new chemo would prove to be the right medication for Sebastian, who bravely endured 68 rounds of chemo, finishing by the end of May.

Every Tuesday for a year, Sebastian had to travel from Julatten to the Cairns Paediatric Oncology Unit and make trips to Queensland’s Children Hospital in Brisbane every three months.

“It’s Sebby’s first week of no chemo, and he’s loving it,” Ms Leonardi said.

“A big weight has been lifted off his little shoulders. Now he can go back to just being a kid and not miss out on so much.

“Now we wait and hold our

breaths to see how his first scan in July goes.”

Ms Leonardi said she wanted to share Sebastian’s milestone to encourage families undergoing cancer diagnoses or lengthy chemo treatments.

“We’re so proud of Sebby, and

this is a great milestone,” she said.“When we first started, we didn’t think Sebby could make it through 68 rounds of chemo, but he did. We just wanted to let people know that there’s hope out there and share our good news.

“I want people to know

that if they’re given 68 weeks of chemo, you can do it. It is achievable.”

Recently Ms Leonardi also partnered with James Cook University to supply her debut book, Boy of Steel, which tells the story of Sebby’s first diagnosis and

the impact a cancer diagnosis has on a family, with 10 copies going to JCU libraries every year through the fundraising campaign Book Angels.

For more information and to support Sebastian’s journey, visit www.crystalleonardi.com

Sebby Leonardi and three members of his team at the paediatric oncology unit (from left Jess, Rachel and Carly.

Picture: Nakia Morrison

school water

Free community blood testing from today

l YARRABAH

| Nick Dalton

LEAD has been found in the water at Yarrabah State School’s primary and secondary campuses and the kindergarten, following similar findings at Yarrabah Health Facility and Atherton Hospital.

The latest testing has prompted the state’s chief health officer, Dr John Gerrad, to fly to the Far North.

He said appropriate and precautionary measures were being taken, based on the preliminary results of water samples at the education facilities.

Dr Gerrard said Queensland Health, Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service, the Department of Education, and Yarrabah Aboriginal Shire Council were working closely to conduct further tests to determine the sources of contamination and if any rectification works were necessary.

While health advice indicated a low risk of exposure to lead at all three sites, Dr Gerrard said the health and wellbeing of children and teaching staff were being prioritised.

“The immediate health risks are minimal,” he said.

“Out of an abundance of caution, children and staff at Yarrabah’s kindergarten, and primary and secondary schools will use bottled water for drinking until we are certain supplies are safe to ingest.

“While this is understandably concerning for the community, it is still safe for children and staff to use the water for nondrinking purposes.

“Free blood testing will also be made available for staff and children, and anyone in Yarrabah who is concerned.”

Dr Gerrard said it was safe for the broader community to continue consuming the town’s water supply provided taps used for drinking water were flushed daily.

“Testing of the Yarrabah town water supply has repeat-

edly shown that it complies with the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines and does not contain lead. “This was confirmed in the most recent test last week,” he said.

“As is the case with any water supply, contaminants can sometimes leach into drinking water from plumbing fittings and can accumulate if taps are left unused. Running the tap usually solves the problem.

“I recommend everyone in Yarrabah routinely run their kitchen tap for 30 seconds first thing in the morning in case there is corrosion in their plumbing, and for two minutes if they haven’t used it for more than two days.”

Ingestion of lead can lead to health problems, with children and unborn babies more affected than adults. Physical contact with lead does not present a health risk.

• Free blood testing will be established as a priority for school staff and children and anyone in Yarrabah who is concerned. Blood tests will be available at the Gurriny Workshop Road Clinic from today.

• To date, all lead blood test results of health facility staff have been negative.

New writer’s guide released

l EARLVILLE

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

LOCAL journalists and academics Dr Gail Sedorkin and Dr Amy Forbes have released the third edition of ‘Interviewing’, an essential guide for journalists, PR and writing professionals focusing on the disruption of digitality and remote interviewing.

First released in 2002, Interviewing is the complete guide to the art and skill of interviewing. The third

edition was published this year under Routledge Taylor & Francis Group.

With the support of other local referents like PR consultant Pip Miller, video journalist Kirsty Nancarrow and researcher Lisa Svanetti, Dr Sedorkin and Dr Forbes updated the guide to suit post-COVID complexities.

Dr Sedorkin, who has over 20 years of experience teaching and in media industries, said Interviewing aimed to support young journalists and public relations professionals in their journey toward better

interviewing practices.

“I’ve always been fascinated by interviewing. It’s an art, a skill, I don’t know what it is, but it’s not easy,” she said.

“The last edition was in 2011, so it was too old, so it’s almost a whole new book.

"The newest thing is that there are exercises at the end of each chapter to guide you from the simplest interview to the most complex, a Zoom interview or a broadcast interview."

To buy the book visit www.routledge.com

Yarrabah State School.

Dr Gail Sedorkin with the third edition of the essential guide for professional writers, Interviewing.

Picture: Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

Learning tricks of the trade

In memory of US soldier

Paratrooper plunged to death at Green Hill

AN American paratrooper who fell to his death at Gordonvale 80 years ago will be remembered at a special ceremony later this month.

l CAIRNS REGION

TOURISM and hospitality careers have been showcased to 100 Far North Queensland high school students at a Queensland Tourism Industry Roadshow at the Cairns Convention Centre.

The roadshow is part of a travelling series from Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC) to introduce school leavers to the scope of possibilities when choosing a career in tourism.

The day’s program included a cooking class with Cairns Convention Centre executive chef David Hart,

a mixology masterclass with Lyres non-alcohol spirits, a tourism hub with exhibitors offering career and course advice, a panel discussion with industry leaders and a behind-the-scenes look of the newly expanded event space.

Convention centre culinary services director Benjamin Boudaud said the roadshow was a great opportunity to showcase the wide variety of opportunities available in the tourism industry while helping to spark interest within students to the world of possibilities available to them.

“We need to attract new talent and people to the

industry as we continue to rebuild and recover and a platform such as this allows us to share our passion while giving students a better understanding of the event industry," he said.

QTIC chief executive Brett Faser said that it was exciting to see students taking part and learning about what the tourism industry had to offer and being inspired by the diversity of roles and opportunities.

He said the roadshow provided an opportunity to respond to the current workforce issues that had been identified as challenging for tourism.

Over the weekend of June 24 and 25, Reverend Ian Lindsay of All Saints Anglican Church and the Gordonvale community will be hosting a wreath laying, a book launch and a memorial church service in honour of Private Donald L. Wilson and the Paratrooper Infantry Regiment, 503rd Unit.

Attending will be the niece of the paratrooper – Cathy Mechsner – and her husband Ron, the United States military attaché’ from the US Embassy in Canberra and other invited guests.

Rev. Lindsay said everyone would gather to remember and to honour the life and memory of Pte Donald L Wilson and all members of the 503rd parachute regiment.

“The small town of Gordonvale was occupied by hundreds of American paratroopers during December, 1942 until August, 1943,” he said.

“During their posting in Gordonvale, nine members of the

503rd died through accident or mishaps. Sunday, June 25 will mark 80 years to the day when Pte Donald Wilson jumped to his death at Green Hill, Gordonvale.”

Rev. Lindsay said the event was being held after a letter from Mrs Mechsner in December last year. She wrote the letter to thank the church for solving a family mystery.

“On June 25, 1943, our uncle died in a tragic accident during a training jump which American General Douglas McArthur was to attend,” the letter read.

“Unfortunately, and for unknown reasons, our uncle jumped

from the plane without either of his parachutes being deployed.

“I learned this information only a few months ago from an online article in the regiment’s heritage website which lists the source as extracts from The Parish Book of All Saints Church, Gordonvale, Queensland, Australia.

“The purpose of this letter is to thank your church for recording this information.

“Without the record, my family and I would not have known what the true nature of our uncle’s passing was.

“Our grandparents and Uncle Donald’s sister and brother, if known, never shared this information.

“We also want to thank the community for the compassion and caring of our uncle for the funeral and his return voyage home.”

The events are:

• Saturday, June 24, at 9am wreath laying at Gordonvale Library and at 10am at Mulgrave Settlers Museum, Gordonvale, the book launch of Parachuting into Love – stories of young women who married 503rd paratroopers 1943-1946. Sunday, June 25 at 9am, memorial church service at All Saints Anglican Church.

Cooktown State School students Bonnie Lane-Ritchie and Chloe Hanson with Lyre Spirit Co’s (nonalcohol) global brand ambassador Jeremy Shipley. Picture: Supplied

Private Donald Wilson died 80 years ago at Gordonvale.

l GORDONVALE

| Nick Dalton

Migrants take a look at FNQ

Business investment at top of their itineraries

INVESTMENT opportunities in the tropical north’s tourism, innovation and agriculture sectors were showcased to newly arrived business migrants visiting the region this week.

Regional Development Australia (RDA) Tropical North chief executive officer Sonja Johnson said eight migrants and six migration agents joined the three-day Tropical North Queensland Business Investment Roadshow.

“RDA Tropical North has developed the roadshow in collaboration with Migration Queensland and Trade and Investment Queensland in a bid to bring new job-creating investment into the region,” she said.

Ms Johnson said the event hosted migrants from China and Taiwan from diverse business sectors wanting to invest in regional areas as well as Australian migration agents representing clients in China and South Africa.

She said the group of 14 received a mayoral welcome at a Cairns Regional Council-hosted networking function with local investment-ready projects such

as the TNQ Plastics Recycling Industry Proposal. Ms Johnson said Douglas and Mareeba shire councils and the Tablelands Regional Council also took part.

She said they were briefed on the Daintree renewable microgrid, Far Northern Milling, Enserv Australia’s next generation battery manufacturing and the Priors Creek Precinct in Atherton.

The group visited Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre, Mareeba Industrial Park, Skybury Café and Roastery, an avocado farm at Walkamin and Gallo Dairyland.

“These business migrants are looking to invest from $1 million to $15 million to be part of the Queensland Business Nomination Program offering

migrants the opportunity to join a community and contribute to the state’s economic growth and development through various programs. “

RDA Tropical North chairwoman Professor Hurriyet Babacan said tropical north Queensland’s lifestyle and climate held great appeal for people wanting to move from overseas.

“We need to demonstrate that a move to our beautiful part of the world could also be the start of a successful new opportunity for business migrants,” she said.

“Our region is already in demand for international students and an opportunity to invest in the region may be just what their families need to make the move to the tropical north.”

Free Thursday childcare offer

l EARLVILLE

A FREE 'Play and Grow' childcare program is being held every Thursday at Earlville for parents or carers of children up to the age of five.

The Benevolent Society’s Cairns and Gordonvale Early Years centres are running the program every Thursday morning during school term from 9.30am-12.30pm at Earlville Shopping Town.

“It’s an opportunity for families to engage with their children aged 0-5 years and connect with other parents in the community,” said early year centres’ manager Cassy Bishop.

“Supported by early childhood educators as well as child and family practitioners, the early play experiences range from singing and music, to art and craft activities, story time and much more,” she said.

“Our Play and Grow

program supports families to provide their children with quality parent-child time that supports child development and parentchild relationships.”

The program is near the food court.

For more information about the program, email cairns.earlyyearscentre@ benevolent.org.au or call 4034 6800.

You can also join the Facebook group: facebook.com/CairnsEYC

RDA CEO Sonja Johnson.

Early childhood educator Ruth and child and family practitioner Kylie (surnames withheld) at ‘Play and Grow” at Earlville Shopping Town. Picture: Supplied

RDA chairwoman Hurriyet Babacan.

l CAIRNS REGION

| Nick Dalton

Proud Yarrabah role model

Petition calls for action against Tik Tok policies

Teen’s animal cruelty crusade

l REDLYNCH | Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

A SCHOOL student and his friend have launched a petition against animal cruelty that garnered over 500 signatures in a week.

but internationally.

“The outcome of the petition is to put the man in jail for a long time ideally, but this might be too difficult to achieve,” he said.

l YARRABAH

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

AN INNOVATOR of the Indigenous aerospace industry, Gunggandji Aerospace Consultancy founder Daniel Joinbee, has become the first winner of the Indigenous Space Leader of the Year award at the Australian Space Awards last month.

A proud Yarrabah descendant and Defence Force veteran, Mr Joinbee was awarded for his work providing career opportunities in the aerospace industry for

First Nations people across Australia through nontraditional pathways.

The 2023 Space Connect’s Australian Space Awards, held in Sydney last month, celebrated up-and-coming leaders and stakeholders driving the development of Australia’s space economy. This year, the awards added the category Indigenous Space Leader of the Year.

“It was quite humbling,” Mr Joinbee said.

“As the inaugural award winner, I feel like there’s a lot of responsibility on my shoulders to work across Australia to represent, not only the space industry, but

our First Nations people and champion our engagement in the industry.

“For Gunggandji, this is a recognition of our non-traditional pathways approach to workforce solutions for the space industry and awareness that there’s an Aboriginal business out there that’s pushing the boundaries and creating generational change.”

Mr Joinbee last visited Cairns in April and said his eyes were set on FNQ and its promising emerging aerospace industry solidifying a partnership with Space Centre Australia.

Trinity Anglican School year 8 student Noah Solomon, 13, and his friend Holly Finch are on a crusade to get more policies and restrictions in place against animal abuse on platforms like TikTok after a video of a Chinese food blogger allegedly torturing kittens went viral on the platform.

Both teens researched if justice had been served for the man, identified as Xu Zhihu, a food blogger and Weibo influencer. Still, after finding out he had only received a threemonth jail sentence, they decided something needed to be done.

Launching a Change.org petition on May 9 directed to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, UK’s Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, US President Joe Biden and TikTok’s chief executive Shou Chew, friends and family have backed it up, and the petition has now gath-

ered over 500 signatures. “I despise animal abusers, and what pulled me to this case was the fact that the man showed no care about it,” Mr Solomon, of Redlynch, said.

“I’m working with two friends.

“We did some research and started the petition.

“I shared the petition with all my friends, and in the past two weeks, we have had over 500 signatures.”

Mr Solomon said that if the petition received more attention, it could lead to policy changes, not only in Australia,

“Our main goal is to highlight that animal cruelty and abuse will not be tolerated in the world, and the governments in developed countries should put more restrictions in place.”

Still promoting his petition and advocating for more legislation on animal cruelty and animal cruelty content online, Mr Solomon encouraged Cairns residents, especially young people, to support the cause.

“Teenagers should fight for what they think is right and try to change the world before it’s too late,” he said.

“I might be young, but at this moment, it is up to young people to change the world, as other generations haven’t taken action themselves.

“I encourage you all to step forward and do what you think is right no matter the cost.

“Take Greta Thunberg as an example.”

To support Mr Solomon’s petition, go to: https://bit.ly/43urd2y

What makes Cairns Bank different?

that’s what makes us different.

If you are looking to buy a home, investment property or refinance, come to your local bank

Gunggandji Aerospace Consultancy’s Daniel Joinbee at the Australian Space Awards. Picture: Supplied

Anti-animal cruelty petitioner Noah Solomon. Picture: Supplied

Designer hits a high

Talented Indigenous creator takes her Jarawee label to a new level

l KURANDA

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

PROUD Quandamooka woman and prominent Indigenous designer Briana Enoch will take her label Jarawee to new heights through The Iconic x FNFD Incubator program for Indigenous fashion.

Ms Enoch and her brand Jarawee were chosen from a cohort of 25 Indigenous designers in Australia.

The Iconic and First Nations Fashion + Design have partnered to support Indigenous fashion. Through their sevenmonth pilot incubator program, First Nations designers will receive hands-on experience, industry and manufacturing development and the opportunity to sell their collection through The Iconic.

“Jarawee was my traditional name given to me when I was a baby, and it means ‘pretty little bird’,” she said.

“I loved my culture, and I love fashion, and I wanted to infuse the two.

“The only thing I could connect with fashion at the time was hand-painted shoes and bags until I could figure out how to put my artwork on fabric.

“Now I’m at the point where I need to manufacture the clothes, which is exciting, but this program has paired us with industry mentors to get us to that next phase with our fashion label.”

The program aims to help designers create commercially viable and sustainable business models through mentoring with industry trailblazers like Pip

Edwards (P.E, Nation), Johnny Schembri (By Johnny), and Laura and Tristan Liles (King Csilla), plus respected cultural mentors.

“I was surprised I made it into the top six, and to make it into the final three, I was gobsmacked,” Ms Enoch said.

“My brand has been sought after, but I need to get through the manufacturing process be-

cause people want to buy my stuff.

“I’ve been linked with Pip Edwards, and she said ‘Whatever you need help with, I will introduce you to whoever you need from my team,’ so I’m excited.

“I’ll have my first meeting with my cultural mentor Julie Shaw from MAARA Collective, and she’s showing that we (First

Nations) can get into this industry and bring our cultural heritage with our fashion designs.”

Ms Enoch said her goal was to solve her manufacturing issues and promote Indigenous fashion.

“I’m most excited about connecting with the right people to help me with the next stage of the manufacturing process,” she said.

Catalina memorial service l FNQ

THE Royal Australian Air Force will conduct a commemorative ceremony and unveil a plaque for the nine crew members of Catalina A24-64 who perished in 1944 at the Catalina Memorial (right) in Cairns on Sunday.

A Defence spokesman said No. 43 Squadron Catalina A2464 was lost on December 14, 1944 on Mindoro Island in the Philippines while on a mission during the Second World War. He said the Directorate of Historical Unrecovered War Casualties – Air Force conducted a reconnaissance mission to the Catalina A24-64 crash site from March 3-13, 2019.

“During the commemorative ceremony, wreaths will be laid by the Chief of Air Force Air Marshall Robert Chipman, family representatives of the crew members, and other dignitaries,” the spokesman said.

“It’s a big opportunity, but it’s also scary because you don’t want to fail, but as First Nations people, we learn to be resilient and persevere.

“I’m taking my culture with me, and I hope to inspire our young people because what we learn, we want to pass that on.”

To find out more about the Iconic x FNFD program, visit www. firstnationsfashiondesign.com

“A P-8 Poseidon aircraft, operated by No 11 Squadron, will fly over the Catalina Memorial during the ceremony.

“During the following reception, next of kin of the crew members will be presented with their lost family member’s certificates of service and medal entitlements.”

The ceremony is at 8.45am the memorial of the Cairns Esplanade followed by a reception at Rydges Esplanade Resort.

Travellers rate Cairns as the best place for a winter getaway

l CAIRNS

CAIRNS has been rated No. 1 for a winter getaway.

Based on accommodation availability, value and traveller interest, Cairns was the top 2023 Wotif Winter Weekender.

Wotif said Far North Queensland was “the quintessential destination for Aussies seeking tropical weather through the winter months,

and the coastal beauty that is Cairns offers countless attractions.

“As the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, one of the world’s largest living organisms, there’s endless beauty to be seen, whether that’s by snorkelling, diving, kayaking or helicopter.

“There’s plenty to do on land too, including majestic hikes that offer stunning vistas.”

Wotif managing director Daniel Finch said as temperatures fell and the first day of winter arrived, Aussies had been quick to think about their next local getaway.

“The good news for travellers is a trip this winter doesn’t need to break the bank, with Wotif data revealing travelling in winter can save Aussies on average 10 per cent, when compared to travelling

in summer,” he said.

“New South Wales provides some of the best value over winter, where accommodation rates on the South Coast can be over 40 per cent less when compared to summer.

“In Queensland, the Fraser Coast and Sunshine Coast are often close to 30 per cent less.

“As a nation of summer lovers, winter is a smart time to be holidaying in Australia, with accommodation rates

generally cheaper at this time of year.

“Travellers are also being savvy with how they choose to travel this winter. Many are preferencing 3- 4-star accommodation, which not only helps travellers stay within a budget, while still providing some excellent facilities and amenities, but may also mean travellers can upgrade to a better room type, providing even better value.”

Incubator program mentor Pip Edwards from P.E. Nation and Jarawee designer Brianna Enoch. Picture: Supplied

Paddlers enjoy the Far North’s winter off Fitzroy Island. Picture: Tourism Tropical North Queensland

Lettersto the editor

WANT TO BE HEARD?

The Voice must include dialogue

THE proposed referendum on recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the Australian Constitution is drawing a mixed range of views.

One critical view is the claim that much of the wide range of First Nations will not be heard or represented in the proposed advisory Voice to government.

This reflects the traditional decentralised or ‘bottom up’ structure of Aboriginal society, i.e that the strongest societal grouping is at the base level of kinship-based clan groups and then neighbouring groups extend out to language-based “tribal” groups where consensus decision-making between elders is practised.

It is clear that at a national level for a Voice body to be truly representative of the families of local First Nation groups throughout Australia, there has to be lines of communication and consultation out to the states and smaller regional groups of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Only by such a consultation process can a consensus of issues and needs be compiled and so enable a strong line of advice to be presented to the executive government of the day.

The information put out by the Australian Government (https:// voice.gov.au) gives some confidence that the factors I outline here are being addressed. To summarise:

• The Voice will give independent advice to the Parliament and Government

• The Voice will be accountable

and transparent

• The Voice will work alongside existing organisations and traditional structures

• The Voice will be chosen by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people based on the wishes of local communities

• The Voice will be representative of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, gender balanced and include youth

• The Voice will be empowering, community-led, inclusive, respectful and culturally informed. The establishment of the Voice will be challenging but potentially very productive in reducing misinformed decision-making by non-Indigenous policymakers through a better understanding of the cultural and social issues experienced by First Nations peoples.

David Thompson, Mooroobool

Climate change is a pack of lies

WE are not being told the truth on climate and most of the future climate models are based on carbon dioxide as the cause of warming without one shred of evidence.

The truth is that there has not been one climate model ever published on future climate prediction that has come true.

It is rarely pointed out that carbon dioxide is one of the main building blocks of all life starting with plant life which feeds animals. The by-product of this process called photosynthesis is oxygen which all animals rely on for their life also. All animals can survive in an atmosphere of 2000 parts per million, so it’s not a poison.

Vocal Local join our online debate be a

THIS WEEK’S QUESTION

Do you think Cassowary Coast Regional Council should reverse its cashless payment system?

This is what a real bank is. Offering face-to-face service with customers, people you can talk to in Cairns, and actually caring about their customers by cutting interest rates. Cairns Bank is not driven by obscene profits and greedy shareholders.

John, Manoora

At the heart of Cairns Bank is community. That is why the little bank is the people’s bank because they care about their community and their customers.

The big banks take, the little bank gives.

Susan, Edge Hill

I wish more people would support Cairns Bank which is focused on the community and their customers. People should close

For the temperature to go up 1 degree the carbon dioxide level has to double and that’s a fact I’ve only recently learnt.

The present federal and state governments arguing for renewable power have a straw argument based on fictional facts (lies). They

are spending billions of dollars on this so-called renewable power that will not provide enough power in a timely manner and it is destroying natural habitat. They gobble up resources for very poor returns.

A vibrant Australia should have a diversity of ideas, political views,

their accounts with the big banks and do their business with the great little bank in Lake St. Ben, Westcourt

Cairns Bank is an institution in Cairns. Did you know it was established in 1899 as the Cairns Weekly Penny Savings Bank?

It later became Cairns Penny Bank but due to new rules it then became Cairns Penny Savings & Loans Limited. In 2020 it was changed again, to Cairns Bank.

Ken, Whitfield

Last week we asked the question: What do you think about Cairns Bank actually cutting interest rates? Here are some of your comments. @cairnslocalnews

Unlike its competitors, Cairns Bank is owned by the people of the region, and its policy is determined by a board of directors, the majority of whom live and work in the region.

Bill, Mt Sheridan

and debate on all issues without anyone being lampooned for their different point of view.

There is no climate catastrophe, and we should not be suffering physically or financially because we are being told this lie.

Richard Holme, Edmonton

Simple steps dog owners can take to minimise attacks

DOG attacks are very frightening for all involved.

They can cause serious injury to people and animals, and tragically, they can sometimes result in death.

Following a number of serious dog attacks in Queensland, the state government in April convened a special taskforce to look at proposed reforms.

These include the possibility of jail time for owners involved in the most serious dog attacks, on-the-spot fines for off-leash dogs, and a statewide ban on

prohibited breeds. A paper detailing proposed changes will be prepared for public consultation.

In the meantime, there are simple steps dog owners can take to minimise the risk of being involved in an attack.

COUNCIL

Update your dog details

Now’s the time to update your dog registration details with Council to make sure you receive the right rego renewal notice and associated fee.

It’s important for Council to know if:

n You have new contact details

n You’ve moved out of or within the Cairns Local Government Area

n Your pet has passed away

n Your pet has been desexed

n Your pet has completed Level 3 Obedience training

n You are eligible for a concession card or aged pensioner discount.

You can update your details via Council’s website, by email to regadmin@cairns.qld.gov.au or at any Customer Service Centre.

These include always supervising children around dogs, making sure there is secure fencing on the property, and using a lead in a public place.

If you are worried that a dog in your neighbourhood could attack someone, talk to the owner first to see if there is anything that can be done to reduce the threat.

If you are unable to resolve your concerns directly with the owner, you can try speaking to your local council.

If you have been involved in

Our population is growing. How do we balance growth with protecting what makes Cairns special as we head towards 2050?

Council is looking for 350 Cairns residents from all walks of life to form a Towards 2050 Community Panel. Members will share their views, test ideas and explore the issues around urban change and population growth.

Participants do not need any special qualifications, skills or knowledge, just a passion for Cairns and a willingness to participate.

Locals aged 16 or over, who are an Australian citizen or permanent resident, are invited to be part of the panel.

Sign up via the QR code (above right), visit www.sortitionfoundation.org/cairns, or call 1800 979 787. Registrations close 18 June.

a dog attack, you should immediately report it to your local council.

This ensures the council can respond in a timely way to secure the dog, gather evidence and speak to those involved.

If it’s safe to do so, take photos of injuries and the incident. You should take notes of what occurred and any conversations.

Seek medical or veterinary care if needed, and keep any medical or veterinary reports and receipts.

If your dog attacks a person

or another animal, you could be fined, your dog could be regulated as dangerous and subject to additional requirements like muzzling, or you may face legal action.

There are some defences available, for example if your dog’s conduct was a result of the dog being attacked, if it was trying to protect its owner, or if it is a working security dog.

If you are injured in a dog attack, the owner of the dog may be required to compensate you for any losses, including medi-

cal expenses, loss of income, and ongoing trauma. For owners, standard pet insurance is unlikely to foot the bill for dog attacks, but some home and contents insurance policies will cover pet owners for dog attacks.

Kristyn Lennon is a Cairns-based lawyer who heads Maurice Blackburn’s Tablelands office. This legal information is general in nature and should not be regarded as specific legal advice. If you have a legal question you would like Kristyn to answer you can contact her at klennon@mauriceblackburn.com.au

Improvement works

Thursday 15 June.

Little Pease St, Manunda: Water main replacement from Monday 12 June.

For

Ironman road closures

Motorists are advised there will be changed road conditions associated with Cairns Ironman on Sunday 18 June

Notably, the Captain Cook Highway will be closed from Veivers Rd at Palm Cove, to Beor St at Craiglie from 5.30am to 5.30pm.

There will be other road closures and changed traffic conditions associated with the event. For full details go to www.ironman.com/im-cairns-course

Gazza’s Gossip

Breakfast from 6am on Douglas FM 101.5FM

Raiders try hard for their skipper

l PORT DOUGLAS

FOR many Douglas Shire locals, including myself, Saturday afternoon in Port Douglas was all about sport.

Initially, the Port Douglas Crocs were in true winning form, beating South Cairns Cutters by 189 points to 42.

At the conclusion of this great home win, many spectators then made their way just a couple of hundred metres across to Raider Park, the home ground of the Port Douglas Reef Raiders.

For both newbies and regular rugby union

fans, this occasion was to have a special meaning, as well as hopefully providing an entertaining 80 minutes of rugger against the Southside Crusaders.

Port Douglas Reef Raiders skipper Richard Johnston arrived in Port Douglas four years ago, from England, to no doubt follow a dream of living in the tropics.

Regarded highly for his skills and experience on the field of play, Richard is also much loved for simply being a nice guy amongst fellow players and fans after a game.

It therefore was a massive shock when Richard was recently diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukemia.

The club felt that they needed to do their bit and try to offer some financial assistance during the potential tough times ahead. With this in mind, regular supporters and the general public at large were invited to Saturday’s match, which kicked off at 4pm.

Throughout the game, spectators were entertained with raffles and auctions as well as the canteen and popular bar.

I have to say the turn-out was superb, together with local businesses providing prizes for the event.

With all proceeds going to Richard and the count up to $10,000 when I last asked, the day certainly will provide a helping hand to the

club’s much-loved young hero and leader.

Besides all of this, the Reef Raiders turned on the style in the second half, having been level at half-time on 14 points and coming out to smash the Southside by 42 points to 19 by the final whistle.

Both sides were generous in their appreciation of the crowd by saluting them, at full time, with a ‘hip, hip, hooray’.

I’m off to practice my scrum, so for now it’s Gazza signing out.

Send your stories to gazza@cairnslocalnews.com.au

Both teams salute the crowd at full-time.

A KIND gesture

ON a fundraising note, tomorrow evening will see a cocktails and canapes evening at Hughie’s Wine Bar in Mossman.

With bubbles on arrival, this popular new venue, together with all those attending, will be raising important funds for KIND ‘Kids In Need Donations’.

KIND was established in 2008 in the Douglas region as a not-for-profit organisation by local people for local people. The intention is to raise, administer and distribute funds to assist children in need of support who have been diagnosed with a terminal or debilitating illness or injury.

Hughie’s owner Paul McMahon hosts a fundraiser this Saturday.

Above, a great crowd turned out in support of Richard, and (below) to see the Reef Raiders take control in the second half.

Local volunteers were on hand to help to raise funds.

Raiders supporter Alec Coyle with an uncanny resemblance to the team mascot.

Wayne’sWorld

l CAIRNS

G’DAY Tropicairnsians.

Crims hate air horns COUCH to win from TV show

It is becoming a truly sad world we are dwelling in.

We have global warming which is threatening to not only kill the majority of life forms on this precious planet, but to also flood out those last remaining living creatures. Then we are creating dangerous viruses that kill millions, and sends countries into severe depression and years of recessions leading to bankruptcy. Reasons? Who knows, maybe world domination or just total stupidity.

At the moment, we are suffering another problem Australia wide and that is youth crime, being car thefts, home invasions, break and enters, group shop lifting, stabbings, school bullying and fighting and all the above and much more seems to be for the pleasure of seeing themselves on social media.

These twits are even having competitions on who can sneak into bedrooms and steal your keys right from under your pillow, who can steal the most expensive car, who can drive the fastest, who can have the most cop cars chasing them, even chasing cops and the list goes on and on. With it, seems to come very few consequences for the perpetrators. I have people continually asking me for the best alarm systems, door locks, cameras etc.

And while changing to, and/ or adding dead locks to all entry points, placing 42 x 19mm pine timber behind sliding windowss,will slow these mongrels down what we really need is something that will scare them off to the point that they will not return to your place or more importantly your neighbourhood.

After extensive studying these kids on the many various web sites, it would seem that the only thing they are more afraid of, apart from someone shooting at them, is loud noise.

Yes, let me set up a scenario here. You are lying in bed and there are noises in your yard that should not be there, and motion lights turn on, what

happens next is you reach over and grab the air horn pressing it down to let the loudest noise you will ever hear in your place, which also wakes up or alerts the neighbours who set off their horns and alarms with dogs alsdo going nuts.

What happens next has been proven time and time again is that these grubs take off real fast as they cannot stand loud noise alerting everyone to their presence.

Now if we make a habit of working with our neighbours to scare them off with these party air horns which you can buy from Silly Solley’s for $4 then we can really make a difference to the crime rate that our governments and courts cannot seem to do.

Recently, while nearing the completion of my day at the Big Green Shed on a Sunday, feeling the worms starting to bite I suddenly had hunger for pizza (and not with pineapple) so out comes the phone and on to the Dominos App to pick and place my order for 5.30pm pick-up at White Rock. Simple, yes? What could go wrong?

Well, I soon found that out when paying the bill.

Right beside me on the counter is a very little card announcing that I am being charged 10 per cent Sunday surcharge.

I am quite accepting of public holiday surcharge but this? Not a bloody chance ever again. Fish and chips next time. Smiling is living, Wayne.

l MANOORA

| Nick Dalton COUCH (Cairns Organisation United for Cancer Health) is the official charity partner for the Adventure All Stars TV charity series.

COUCH events and partnerships officer Bec Dent said the hunt was on for “12 amazing humans to be part of the project”.

“Australia’s only sociallyconscious TV travel series Adventure All Stars is looking for cast members to feature in season four and COUCH has partnered with the producers to assist in the search,” she said.

“This is an opportunity for people within our community to do something totally life-changing and support a great cause at the same time.

“Adventure All Stars is the award-winning Aussie TV travel show with a difference. Every episode is filmed in spectacular locations, with cast members spending a week uncovering the best and most exciting experiences on the planet.

“And here’s the awesome part: pre-filming, participants raise funds and exposure for COUCH and they are then rewarded with a one-week trip-

of-a-lifetime to a breathtaking secret location with the Adventure All Stars film crew.

“An Australia-wide search is now underway for people aged between 18 and 80 to star in a life-changing seven-day adventure to a secret destination for a week of fun and filming, to uncover the best and most exciting experiences on the planet.”

Adventure All Stars executive producer Troy Gray said the series was creating television history by raising millions of dollars to support a record number of Australian charities.

“Unlike other TV shows, none of our cast receive an appearance fee and all net proceeds are gifted to charity. Also, let’s not forget that Adventure

All Stars is a ground-breaking travel show promoting incredible destinations to a global audience – filmed and presented as socially positive, harmonious, and visually spectacular television content,” he said.

“The second season of Adventure All Stars generated close to $1.2 million for Australian charities, making the show one of the biggest contributors to philanthropy of any TV series in the world.” Mr Gray said all 49 episodes had raised $10m.

Season three of the series will premiere on Friday, July 21 at 9pm on 7Plus.

Registrations are now open for season four on the Charity TV Global website: https://bit.ly/45OamZX

A previous cast of TV travel series Adventure All Stars.

Wayne with a $4 air horn.

One Coast - Cassowary Coast

Lease disposal of Dunk Island Spit

AT yesterday’s May Local Government Meeting, Cassowary Coast Regional Council granted the 30-year lease of the Dunk Island Spit to the group that owns the freehold portion of Dunk Island.

Quote from Annie Cannon-Brookes: “We are honoured to be the custodi-

ans of the Spit area of Dunk Island.

We look forward to maintaining and enhancing this iconic portion of the Island, with the goal of making it welcoming for both locals and tourists to enjoy in the near future.”

Mayor Mark Nolan said for many years now the Dunk Island Spit had

remained dormant, however Council was confident this new agreement would esee a tourism resurgence to this iconic destination.

“The Dunk Island Spit is a key attraction for our region, and I look forward to seeing increased activation on the Spit for visitors and

locals to enjoy.”

“Through the lease being granted to the Dunk Island Group, the community and visitors will continue to have access to the camp kitchen and amenities block as well as essential services including power, water and sewerage,” said Mayor Nolan.

Dunk Island Spit.

One Coast - Cassowary Coast

Upgrades to Innisfail Con Theatre toilet amenities

COUNCIL was pleased to recently re-open the Innisfail Con Theatre amenities after completing an upgrade and refit of these facilities.

The refit of the amenities took into consideration a design and theme reflective of the building’s purpose and current aesthetic.

The improvements were welcomed and greatly appreciated by the Friends of the Con committee with member and President Erika Swiney thanking Council for completing the work.

“We are very pleased with the upgrades and love that the refit has aligned with the current look.

“We look forward to welcoming the wider community back as we come into a busy few months with up-

coming events,” said Erica Sweeny.

The completion of these works coincides with the upcoming Innisfail Young Performers Competition which takes place annually at the Innisfail Con Theatre in June. The competition usually draws over 100

competitors and substantial audiences who will be utilising the facilities.

Council thanks the community for their patience during these works and hopes the public can enjoy the cleaner and updated amenities when attending future events at the Con Theatre.

Council adopts coastal hazard adaptation strategy

AT the May Local Government Meeting, Council adopted the 2023/24 Register of Fees and Charges which will take effect on 1 July 2023.

Council has the legislative capacity to develop and subsequently adopt a register of fees and charges as part of its annual budget process.

Mayor Nolan said that Council’s fees and charges were a significant part of Council’s revenue stream and were developed to support immediate community service outcomes as well as align with Council’s longterm financial sustainability plan.

“Fees and Charges are adopted in advance of the 2023/24 Annual Budget to allow community and businesses time to consider as part of their own budgeting process ahead of the new financial year.

“The majority of fees and charges have had a 6.8% increase applied with in accordance with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) weighted average across 8 capital cities and annual movement to February 2023 issued by the Australian

Bureau of Statistics.

“Significant changes to the 2023/24 Fees and Charges include a range of operational service delivery areas such as Domestic and Regulated Waste, Visitor Information Services, Animal Management and Public Campgrounds.

“Changes to Fees and Charges reflect the cost of community service provision and a user-pay approach. If you don’t use the service, you won’t be charged for it.

“Importantly, Council officers have worked hard to harmonize, streamline and even remove fees and charges to produce consistent outcomes where possible, for example Tully Caravan Park fees have been made consistent with River Drive, Cowley Beach and Kurrimine Beach camping grounds.

“Further, the adopted 2023/24 Fees and Charges clearly demonstrates that where Council is delivering services similar to the private sector providers, it is doing so transparently and free from anti-competitive conduct,” said Councillor Nolan.

AT the May Local Government Meeting

Council adopted the Cassowary Coast Coastal Hazard Adaptation Strategy (the Strategy).

Since 2016, the State Government has funded the QCoast2100 program, assisting coastal Councils to advance coastal hazard adaptation planning and prepare coastal hazard adaptation strategies. Cassowary Coast Regional Council received funding to develop our Coastal Hazard Adaptation Strategy under the QCoast2100 Program.

The Strategy identifies locations where existing coastal facilities and assets are vulnerable across our region.

Cassowary Coast Regional Councillor Jeff Baines said that this had been a long journey and Council would like to acknowledge and thank everyone who had

contributed to the Adaptation Strategy to see it adopted by Council at our May Local Government Meeting.

“Council will now develop an implementation plan and seek funding opportunities to progress the Strategy outcomes and Implementation Plan.” said Councillor Baines. The Implementation Plan will include coastal management actions that reduce exposure to coastal hazards and risks to preserve our beaches and foreshores, as well as sustainable recreational and tourist use of the coast by assisting in the maintenance of the recreational amenity and provision of public access to the coast. This will also contribute to building resilience and long-term sustainability and liveability in the Cassowary Coast region through adapting and responding to coastal hazard risks and climate change.

For further information about the Cassowary Coast Coastal Hazard Adaptation Strategy please go to yoursay.cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au/CHAS.

INVESTING IN YOUTH

CASSOWARY Coast Regional Council is committed to investing in and supporting youth within our region through Council’s Student Mentorship Program.

The Student Mentorship Program is in partnership with Innisfail State College and is now entering its eighth year.

This program enables students to gain practical experience in a work environment and learn about the different functions Council delivers.

It also provides an opportunity to receive one-on-one mentoring with Council’s team members to further build skills that are in demand by employers including problem-solving, communication, and teamwork.

Division Five Councillor Jeff Baines welcomed the students to Council and encouraged them to immerse themselves in this experience and enjoy the program.

“Council is committed to engaging youth within the region to provide them with opportunities to learn, grow and thrive within our community.

“Our youth are the future representatives of our community and it is important to support them with gaining workplace experiences at a young age to inspire their future careers,” said Councillor Baines.

Innisfail State College (ISC) Head of Junior School and facilitator of Connect Student mentoring program, Kylie Azzopardi said ISC was thankful for the opportunity CCRC provides to our young people.

“Council has been committed to this process from the start and further committed to the future of the program by recently providing additional

teams to mentor our students within different sectors of the organisation.

“It is an eye opener for many students over the years, how they connect the school values to the realworld work environment,” said Kylie Azzopardi.

The Student Mentorship Program is delivered over a 10-week period, with students working within Council teams one day per week. Throughout the program, students are encouraged to reflect on their progress each step of the way, so they can grow and evolve and commence their life-long learning journey.

Innisfail State College Year 9 student, Jones Dorrington, who is taking

part in the program said his main goal during work experience placement was to build his confidence in the workplace.

“I would also like to better understand what pathways are available to me once school finishes.

“At school, I enjoy English classes, so I am excited to work with Council’s Communication Team to develop my writing skills,” said Jones Dorrington. Council acknowledges and congratulates the commitment from Innisfail State College over the past years and the students for their participation over those years enabling the program to continue to succeed and grow.

Fees and charges for 2023- 2024

Innisfail State College Students who will be working in Council Depot as part of the Student Mentoring Program

Cassowary Coast to capture potential as ecotourism destination

THE Cassowary Coast is on the journey to become an accredited ECO Destination through the Ecotourism Australia’s globally recognised program with a pledge to achieve certification by the end of 2024.

Achieving ECO Destination certification will recognise the Cassowary Coast as a world-class destination for sustainable, nature-based tourism and showcase our destination’s commitment to quality sustainable practices. It will also give conscious travellers a clear snapshot of the sustainable, ecofriendly experiences, attractions and accom-

modation that our destination offers.

Councillor Renee McLeod, portfolio holder for Tourism and Economic Development, said Council would like to see the Cassowary Coast region achieve certification by the end of 2024.

“In order to prepare for a changing climate and transitioning economy, like other regional Queensland towns we need to future-proof our tourism industry.

“The Cassowary Coast is at the heart of two World Heritage areas - the Wet Tropics Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef Marine

Park, each with numerous spectacular natural assets. Through investing in sustainable tourism we have an opportunity to be a regional leader, protect our natural assets and appeal to the increasing number of travellers seeking sustainable travel experiences.

“Our environment is like no other and implementing practices across destination management, nature and scenery, environment and climate, culture and tradition, business and hospitality, will be essential to expanding our potential as a sustainable destination, new business ventures and employment opportunities in our region.

“The certification process will rely on successful partnership and collaboration with tourism industry and operators to achieve Eco Destination Certification by 2024.

“Although Council is responsible for managing certification, as a region the Cassowary Coast’s management practices and activities will be assessed independently.” said Councillor McLeod.

Cassowary Coast Tourism Executive Officer Patrick Bluett said the region was already heading in the right direction with several local operators already eco-certified. “We are now looking for more operators to get on board to establish the program in this area and help establish us as an authentic destina-

tion for environmentally conscious visitors.

“Council will be working closely with our team at Cassowary Coast Tourism to speak with local tourism operators and other businesses connected to the visitor-economy on how we can all contribute.

“It will be a collaborative effort to work with our industry to see operators achieve their own certification which recognises a business’s commitment to sustainable practices and responsible tourism,” said Mr Bluett.

The Cassowary Coast region was a recipient of the Eco-certified Tourism Destination program grant in 2022, introduced by the Queensland Government, to help both applicant destinations and new destinations start or complete a globally recognised certification process. Cassowary Coast Regional Council has applied for Eco Destination certification and must now work through the assessment process of sustainability criteria.

Interested local businesses wanting to consider where they are on their sustainability journey can utilise Ecotourism Australia’s Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard, a great first step before certification, find information at www.ecotourism.org.au/strive-4-sustainability.

Businesses working with the visitor-economy can also consider completing an Ecotourism Australia Business Certification Program.

RECONCILIATION LUNCHEON

ON Friday 26 May 2023, the community attended a Reconciliation Luncheon at the Innisfail Shire Hall. This was delivered through a partnership between Cassowary Coast Regional Council and Mamu Health Services.

Reconciliation Week is an annual celebration and a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation.

“It’s important to build strong, positive, and respectful relationships with all Australians that are a part of our lives today and every day of the year,” said Mayor Mark Nolan.

“As a community we take Reconciliation Week as an opportunity to be involved with celebrations, move forward as one community, and contribute to reconciliation.”

The National Reconciliation Week 2023 theme, ‘Be a Voice for Generations’ was reflected throughout the event with future generational leaders, Mitchell Martin and the Indigenous Leadership Team from Innisfail State College: Dallas Rudken, Tshala Fischer, Gwen Korkatain, Malachi Donaldson, speaking about their vision and aspirations for a united community.

The traditional performances by First Nations’ dancers were performed by Goondoi Dancers and MK Sunset Dancing Team was a highlight for all attendees and provided the opportunity for community members to share First Nations’ culture and heritage. Council would also like to acknowledge Manni Edwards for your heartfelt Welcome to Country and sincerely thanks Mamu Health Services Limited and Roscoe’s for their contributions to the event.

The Cassowary Coast is set to become an accredited ECO Destination by 2024.

Council strives for continuous improvement in customer service

CASSOWARY Coast Regional Council recently adopted and is currently implementing the Customer Service Charter to be used as Council’s guiding principles to deliver great service and value to our community.

The Charter encompasses all aspects of Council’s Customer Service and Service Delivery and incorporates the whole customer journey from the first point of contact through to the delivery of service.

Mayor Mark Nolan said Council had a strong vision and mission which aspired to provide great experiences, deliver value

and create a sustainable future for our community.

“The Customer Service Charter highlights Council’s commitment to continuous improvement in customer service and outlines timeframes, privacy, complaints management and our expectation of our customers.

“Through this process we aim to provide a consistent approach across all Council’s service delivery, engagement and communications activities, recognising this it is everyone’s responsibility to strive to provide a great customer experience,” said Mayor Nolan.

Echo Of The Past Historical Exhibition

MISSION Beach

Historical Society is proud to present ‘Echo of the past: historical photographs of Mission Beach 1890s - 1950s’.

The exhibition has had a successful run in the Mission Beach Library and will now be transferred to the Innisfail Shire Hall and be available for public viewing from Monday 5 June until Friday 30 June.

The ‘Echo of The Past’ exhibition will showcase two displays including 16 frames with historic photographs and text panels in Council’s Customer Service Area and Djiru artefacts and pioneer memorabilia in the southern street window. The community is encouraged to pop into the Innisfail Shire Hall during the exhibition to have a look.

Cassowary Coast Regional Council customer service team member.

and

New southern physiotherapy clinic

Wellness Embodied’s fourth site at Mt Sheridan is strategically located for growth

l MT SHERIDAN

A PHYSIOTHERAPY clinic has expanded to Mt Sheridan – the fourth Wellness Embodied practice in the Far North. Director and lead physiotherapist Suzanne Rath (right) said the new location offered residents in the Cairns southern access corridor physiotherapy and osteopathy services, including the treatment of severe hip or knee osteoarthritis through the GLA:D program.

“With an opportunity to access physio and other solutions closer to home we are hoping we can assist residents south of Cairns to move with more ease,” she said.

“The GLA:D program is an evidence-based program that consists of education and exercise regimes developed specifically for sufferers of hip or knee osteoarthritis.

“We are the first phys-

iotherapists in Cairns to make use of the program and we’ve seen it provide great results in helping arthritis sufferers reduce pain, reduce the use of painkillers, and avoid surgery.”

The Mt Sheridan clinic, at 6-8 George Cannon Drive next to Mt Sheridan Medical, will also have multilingual physiotherapists who speak

English, Mandarin and Cantonese.

“The investment in access to the CBD from the southern parts of the region shows how important it is for the southern suburbs to be serviced properly with things like physiotherapy,” said Ms Rath.

“We expect the south of Cairns to continue to grow at a fast pace and we want to make sure that we’re offering everyone in Cairns a high quality, accessible physiotherapy service. It’s now easier than ever for people from Bentley Park, Edmonton and Gordonvale to come and see us.”

The new clinic joins three other Wellness Embodied practices in Sheridan St, Cairns, Scott St, Parramatta Park, and at Cooktown.

Wellness Embodied is at 6-8 George Cannon Drive, phone: 4231 9777, email: admin@wellnessembodiedcairns.com website: www.wellnessembodiedcairns.com

TimeOut

Fall in love with a classic

Cleo & Tony show will introduce audiences to a typical Shakespeare play

l EDGE

HILL

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

AN all-inclusive cast is retelling the classic tragedy of Antony and Cleopatra in a fun and exciting 1930s noir adaptation full of glamour and decadence, Cleo & Tony this month.

The Tanks will be home to everything 1930s, with Tropical Arts’ Cleo & Tony taking the stage from June 15-17. Tropical Arts president and Cleo & Tony director Douglas Robinson said the play promised to make audiences fall in love with Shakespeare all over again and its mature love story.

“We have a cast of 35 performers, 10 creatives and 10-15 volunteers, and we will show opulence that money can’t buy,” he said.

“With an all-inclusive cast, audiences will experience Shakespeare in a completely different way.

“Shakespeare can be very dry, and we wanted to make it modern with a 1930s noir version with gangsters in the prohibition era, where there’s a lot of turmoil but also a lot of uniqueness when fashion was becoming a place for you to express yourself.

“It’s a great love story more mature than Romeo and Juliet, the characters have lived their lives, and now that they’ve matured, they still have that desire.”

Lead actress Amy Rhodes, who plays Cleopatra, said it had been a fantastic experience working with such a diverse cast.

“I play Cleopatra, and she’s

an amazing character. Everybody should get to play Cleopatra once in their lives,” she said.

“She’s opulent, she’s the queen of the world, she’s multidimensional and is not afraid to let her emotions fly, but she’s never been fortunate in love, and now she’s with Tony who’s

this great soldier, and she’s hoping that things will work out.

“Working with this cast, it’s been a tonic.

“It’s beautiful to see an allinclusive cast work together, all abilities, all bodies, all backgrounds come together and support one another, which is beautiful to be a part of.”

Mr Robinson encouraged an all-inclusive audience to participate in the Cleo & Tony experience.“Audiences can expect a great love story, a spectacle,” he said.

“We’ve got Cuban dancers, 1930s adaptations of famous songs, an inclusive cast and it just makes you smile.

Back to the 80s at the casino

l CAIRNS CBD

DUE to popular demand the Back to the 80s show is returning to the Reef Hotel Casino.

Casino entertainment manager Bruce Wilson said the event was proving to be a hit.

“The casino jumped Back to the 80s in March following the massive successes in 2022,” he said.

“So much feedback online for the June shows so it’s looking pretty good,” he said.

“Working closely with the band, the casino production team jointly produced a sight, sound and visual experience for anyone who came along.

“The ‘bigger badder’ Big Noise repackaged themselves for the shows to a four-piece with Adrian Cartwright taking to the front of the stage as a true 80S style frontman.

“Most people will walk away thinking, “If that group could do it, why couldn’t I get involved with community theatre”.

“There won’t be a dull audience member; I think everyone will love what we’ve created.”

To buy tickets, visit tanksartscentre.com

“Rolling out hit after hit, this band with members Jock Williamson, Dale Monaghan and Brad Townsend cover all those 80s genres and unique 80s sounds from Brit new wave to American anthem to NZ pop and Aussie rock,” Mr Stewart said.

Back to the 80s is on June 16 and 17 from 8.30pm to late at BAR36 at The Reef Hotel Casino

Cleo & Tony’s cast at the Tanks Arts Centre (from left) Joanne Fairbairn, Galen Gannon, Andy Warren, Troy Johnstone, Joy Nomani, Ola Adamczyk, Amy Rhodes and Ana Bell. Picture: Mike Watt

Casino entertainment manager Bruce Stewart on the stage.

TimeOut

Tales from her wooden chest

Creative artist to talk about rich family history

l STRATFORD | Nick Dalton

ACCLAIMED artist Claudia Chan Shaw is set to engage audiences with a talk titled Tales from A Camphorwood Chest in Cairns on June 19.

The talk is one of the monthly presentations by ADFAS (Australian Decorative and Fine Arts Societies) Cairns which is dedicated to the appreciation and promotion of the arts.

Founded in 1996, the society offers members a myriad of cultural and social opportunities, including informative talks by expert speakers in various artistic fields.

Gaynor Ellis of the ADFAS management committee said Tales from A Camphorwood Chest would involve Ms Chan Shaw recounting her rich family history, tracing roots back to the Australian gold rush, through cosmopolitan Shanghai in the 1930s, the cultural revolution, and up to the world of high fashion in New York.

“Claudia’s story is a testament to the resilience and creativity of the women in her Australian Chinese family and highlights the design legacy that threads through each generation,” she said.

“A multifaceted creative, Claudia Chan Shaw has made her mark in the realms of fashion design, television and radio presenting, authoring, public speaking, installation artistry, photo artistry, and curating.

“She is the co-designer and director for the internationally renowned Australian fashion label Vivian Chan Shaw, with designs represented in the per-

manent collection of the Powerhouse Museum, Sydney.

“Claudia has an active presence in the media, presenting and producing Arts Friday on 89.7fm Eastside Radio. She also leads the Art Deco to Art Now tours globally, spreading her love of Art Deco, history, art, and design. She co-hosts a new television series, Antiques DownUnder, aired on 9Gem and 9Now.”

Participants are encouraged to arrive at 7pm for a 7.30pm start at the Stratford Library Meeting room, 11 Kamerunga Road, Stratford.

Non-members pay $25 admission and half-year memberships of $70 are available for the July-October monthly talks.

For more information about Ms Clan Shaw also visit www.claudiachanshaw.com

First Nations art display

l MANOORA

THE talent and storytelling of Far North Queensland’s young and emerging First Nations artists is currently on show at UMI Arts in its latest exhibition, Culture Through Our Eyes.

UMI Arts launched its second annual Culture Through Our Eyes exhibition on May 26 which, according to the organisation’s exhibition officer Robyne Pacey “was a buzzing event attended by many of the student feature artists enjoying their beautiful artworks being exhibited in a professional gallery space for the first time”.

“Traditional Owner Henry Fourmile performed a beautiful Welcome to Country while our UMI arts director Connie Rovina officially opened the event with Djarragun College principal Liz Thomas as guest speaker,” she said.

Ms Pacey said the 23 works by 15 talented young artists shone in the gallery with vibrant colours and lively characters, telling stories that came from far away. Many of these students travel to Cairns to study from remote communities across

Queensland and the Northern Territory.

Culture Through Our Eyes exhibiting artists are Solace Barnaby, Kaissia Dick, Holly Douglas, Joyce Douglas-Wallis, Chyler Kohler, Zamira Martin, Chloe McGilvary, Jahzara Michl, Mareja Pootchemunka, Olivia Pootchemunka, Kay Kay Sambo, Timesha Sandy, Mahalia Spratt, Gwen Thomas, and Tarek Turner.

All artists are students of Djarragun College, Gordonvale, except for Jahzara Michl.

Ms Pacey said Culture Through Our Eyes was a youth

arts initiative launched in 2022 to provide a user-friendly introduction to Queensland’s vibrant Indigenous arts industry.

“This program provides an inclusive and supportive platform for young, First Nations creators to use artistic expression to show their talent and share their culture,” she said.

“It is wonderful to see this collective response from our young people and more importantly, their fresh perspectives about society and culture,” said Ms Pacey.

The exhibition is at Umi Arts, Shop 4/1 Jensen St, Manoora

Q&A with special guest, Matthew Blyth, Video Split Operator

Artist Claudia Chan Shaw with one of her works. Picture: Supplied

Tamisha Sandy of Doomadgee with her artworks from the Water Dreaming series. Pictures: Colyn Huber, Lovegreen Photography.

Enjoy the taste of tropical spirits mixed with circus-style entertainment

Gin and whisky juggling act

l CAIRNS CBD

| Nick Dalton

A FAR North Queensland’s Festival of Spirits mixes gin with a vintage-style circus tomorrow (June 10).

The festival at Hemingway’s Brewery will highlight the region’s array of gins, whiskies, rums and more from Wolf Lane (Cairns), Distil on the Hill (Kuranda), Mt Uncle Distillery (Walkamin), Narrow Track Distillery (Stratford), Wild River Mountain Distillery (Wondecla) and Devils Thumb (Port Douglas).

Brewery head of hospitality Roman Haslinger said the festival, which coincided with World Gin Day, was an opportunity to experience the unique tastes and flavours of spirits made by the Far North’s distilleries.

“Along with a strong appreciation for quality and enviable access to the abundant range of botanicals and natural ingredients, our region’s distillers are pushing boundaries and setting the bar high on a global stage for creating distinct and sophisticated flavours,” he said.

“The Festival of Spirits collectively recognises the region’s distillers and all the clever and talented people who are innovating and making products that capture the vibrant spirit of the tropics.” Taking cue from

the vintage circus theme, there is a high-voltage line-up of fun and entertainment including circus performances, juggling competitions, sea shanties from The Secret Men, Cairns’

5-piece men’s choir and a folk music showcase from Keesha McLean’s Cairns Voice Studio.

Known for his juggling skill at work and at play, brewery functions coordinator Brendan

Dennis has issued a call out to anyone who can juggle to get along to the festival and show their flair in the air with a chance to snag the major prize of a Great Barrier Reef cruise

TAFE art exhibition

l

MANUNDA

TALENTED TAFE Queensland visual arts students will host a free public exhibition from June 9-21.

A TAFE Cairns spokeswoman said art lovers were invited to attend the exhibition’s opening night from 6-8pm at the TAFE Queensland Cairns campus tonight (June 9).

“A selection of paintings, drawings, printmaking, ceramics and sculptures will be on display and for sale at the Banggu Minjaany Gallery,” she said.

The gallery is open to the public from Monday to Friday between 9am-4pm until the exhibition closes on June 21.

from Down Under Cruise and Dive.

Festival of Spirits is a free and family-friendly event tomorrow from noon until late at Hemingway’s Brewery, Wharf St

Eligible students can study a Certificate III in Visual Arts via Fee-Free TAFE, meaning some or all of the course costs will be covered by the Australian and Queensland Governments.

Getting into the spirit of the Festival of the Spirits are Brendan Dennis, Dan Kelly and Hamish Macdonald. Picture: Supplied

Student Bronwyn Baker’s nautilus shell monoprint.

BEACHES FESTIVAL TRINITY BEACH

l FRI JUNE 9, 5:00PM

A FREE family event celebrating community – food & market stalls, licensed bar, live music, children’s castles and slides, face painting and more. The event will be emceed by The Festival Guy and entertainment and performances including Buenos Nachos Production (fire show), Cairns Taiko Drumming Group, TAS School Band, and more live music. A giant RAFFLE will be run by the Lions Club of Marlin Coast.

Gordonvale Sugar Solstice

CountrySolstice Fair

JUNE

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY:

YARRABAH ARTS CENTRE CRYSTALBROOK BAILEY

l FRI JUNE 9, 6:00PM

Crystalbrook Bailey has partnered with Yarrabah Arts and Cultural Precinct, presenting For Our Elders, an exhibition featuring artists Philomena Yeatman, Edna Ambrym, Michelle Yeatman, Wayne Connolly and Joseph King. Yarrabah Arts celebrates the 2023 National NAIDOC Week theme ‘For Our Elders’ with their own exhibition honouring the theme and message. National NAIDOC Week celebrations will be held from 2 – 9 July 2023.

Image credit: Cluster together, hold tight, cane and cotton, Julie Monro-Allison

FESTIVAL OF THE KNOB SIMS ESPLANADE PARKLANDS

l SAT JUNE 10, 10:00AM-4:00PM

The Yorkeys Knob Residents Association holds the annual Festival of the Knob each year as a fund-raising exercise. Held on Yorkeys Knob’s beautiful beachfront on the Sims Esplanade parklands. Family fun and entertainment including market stalls, stage entertainment, food and drink trucks open till 6.00pm, and exhibitions.

For more information visit www.yorkeysknob.com

FRIDAY

COMEDY FESTIVAL ROADSHOW CPAC

l SAT JUNE 10, 7:30PM

Featuring the best and brightest of the 2023 Melbourne International Comedy Festival, we’re bringing the funny to you! Get ready for a stellar line-up with Roadshow favourites alongside the most talked-about breakthrough stars of the moment, together in one jam-packed show that’s sure to leave the whole nation laughing.

Book your tickets through ticketlink.

Townsville Folk Festival, Foots Hill Station, All day

The Vibes, Dunwoody’s Hotel, 4:00pm

Christina Ukulele, Hemingway’s Brewery, Port Douglas, 5:00pm

Rock’n Sweet Duo, Edge Hill Memorial Bowls Club, 6:00pm

Sax Man, The Benson Hotel, 6:30pm

Hot Ice, Cazaly’s Cairns, 6:30pm

Big Pups, Lakeland Hotel, 7:00pm

Infinity Duo, Innisfail RSL, 7:00pm

Janna Mercedes, Rattle ‘n’ Hum, Palm Cove, 8:00pm Sanchez, Bar36, Reef Hotel Casino, 9:00pm

OOTHECAE EXHIBITION TANKS ARTS CENTRE

l MON JUNE 12, 9:00AM-4:30PM

Julie Monro-Allison is a visual artist and researcher living on Ngunnawal country (ACT). Her work is motivated by curiosity about the relationships between living organisms and the spaces they inhabit.

LAUNCH: 6pm Fri 16 Jun

EXHIBITION: Fri 26 May to Sun 18 Jun

For more info visit the Tanks Arts Centre website.

SATURDAY

Townsville Folk Festival, Foots Hill Station, All day

Sax Man, BUKO, Castaways Mission Beach, 1:00pm The Loose Units, Ellis Beach Bar & Grill, 2:00pm

The Blues Healers, Yorkeys Knob Boating Club, 3:00pm

Christian Burkhardt, Tanks Arts Centre, 4:00pm

Movie Magic Concert, Salvation Army Church, Cairns, 4:30pm

Bad boys of Uke, Gordonvale Sugar Solstice, 4:50pm

Lexi & Waha, Cazaly’s Cairns, 6:15pm

Wasabi Barbie, German Club Cairns, 7:00pm Carrizma, Railway Institute Hall Cairns, 7:00pm

Infinity Duo, Brothers Leagues Club Cairns, 7:00pm

Paradise Concerts, Clink Theatre, Port Douglas, 7:30pm

Big Noise, Bar36, Reef hotel Casino, 9:00pm

SUNDAY

Townsville Folk Festival, Foots Hill Station, All day

Tessa Devine, Ellis Beach Bar & Grill, 1:00pm

Lunar Solarmoon, Dunwoodys Hotel, 2:00pm

Christina Ukulele, Macalister Brewing, 2:00pm

Choral Fanfare Regional Final, CPAC Theatre, 2:00pm

Paradise Concerts, Clink Theatre Port Douglas, 2:00pm

Bad Boys of Uke, Beach Almond, Palm Cove, 3:00pm

Andrea, Boardwalk Social by Crystal Brook, 4:00pm

Justin Wellington, Bar36, Reef Hotel Casino, 7:30pm

Take a minute... Puzzles for you

Weekly Horoscopes

Find a quiet spot where you can work diligently and stay out of the way. Heed the advice given by family or old reliable friends. You may blow situations out of proportion when dealing with the one you love. Plan your day thoughtfully but try not to rely on others.

Avoid getting involved with married individuals. You can expand your circle of friends if you get out and socialize. Look into career choices and courses being offered. Ease the anguish by helping.

CROSSWORD

Be discreet about your feelings and hold back until you find out a little more about the person who’s coming on to you. Don’t let criticism upset you. Hassles will delay your plans. Your obviously unique way of doing things has caught the eye of someone in a higher position. It will do you some good.

Don’t shy away from potential mates they want to introduce you to. Get help to finish a project if you need it. Property investments should payoff. Your personal life will be under the gun, and you may want to avoid the questions your lover is going to want to ask you.

Spend some time with the one you love. Pleasure trips will be satisfying. You will need a little competition this week. Gel involved in activities that will stretch your stamina. You need to get out and be an observer. You’re in the mood to spend money.

Your sensitivity toward those you love will capture their hearts. Your relationship appears to be stressed out and depleted. You can continue to make gains if you call a few people who can help you close an important deal. Try not to get upset or angry without having all the facts.

ACROSS

You need time to think things through. Don’t allow your personal problems to interfere with your professionalism. Try to bend but by no means should you give in completely. You’ll find love and you’ll get into tiptop shape at the same time.

Someone close to you will get upset easily if you are insensitive to their needs. Delays are evident. Avoid being intimately involved with clients or colleagues. Don’t let the moods of those you live with get you down.

Your need to put great detail into everything you do may cause you to miss the overall picture. Be careful not to overextend yourself or you will lose in the long run. You may want to investigate warm vacation spots. You must use discretion when talking to others. Gambling should not be an option.

8. the basic metrical unit in a poem (6)

9. radio listeners who telephone the studio with questions or comments (5-3)

10. people who delight in using or experiencing something (8)

11. a plant of the mint family, with a pungent smell attractive to cats (6)

12. calm, or free from disturbance (8)

13. a person who takes part in a violent public disturbance (6)

25. a Scottish check pattern (6)

26. a person of extraordinary or superhuman powers (8)

27. a large estate or plantation with a dwelling house (8)

28. a large, densely packed crowd of people or animals (6)

DOWN

1. a large, flat, round fish with a poisonous barbs on its tail (8)

2. to instruct or urge someone to do something (6)

3. a rich cake with layers of cream or fruit (6)

4. each of the twelve chief disciples of Jesus Christ (7)

5. a piece of classical music that features a soloist accompanied by an orchestra (8)

6. a book used as a standard work for the study of a particular subject (8)

7. by means of the internet or other computer network (6)

15. to turn round in order to run away (4,4)

16. a sound tht is deep, clear, and continuing to sound or reverberate (8)

18. a substance found in decaying vegetable and animal matter (8)

You need a day to rest and relax with the ones you love. New methods and innovative technology will make your job far easier than you anticipated. Don’t make mountains out of molehills if you want to avoid conflict. You may be overreacting to personal problems.

Your ability to do detailed work will dazzle those who are less creative. Don’t let yourself get rundown. Too much work and no play will not only result in fatigue and frustration but also loneliness, too. Your need to obtain additional details will lead you into strange topics of conversation.

14. something that is impossible to understand or explain (7)

17. replicas of a structure (4-3)

19. in a way that often happens and is expected (2,5)

any paperwork concerning institutional or governmental agencies. You can accomplish a lot if you deal with other people’s money.

20. a dish of meat, fish, or vegetables in a hot curry sauce (6)

22. a small tree of the heath family with sour-tasting leaves (8)

21. an image used to represent a particular computer user (6)

23. self-important or arrogant (6)

24. a call made to rally soldiers for battle (3,3)

romantic infatuation from your past may surface if you frequent places that you both used to go. Draw up contracts regarding your personal situation. Take care of

Marina sale knocked back

Developer unable to upgrade Port Hinchinbrook because of construction crisis

l CARDWELL | NICK DALTON

THE sale of Port Hinchinbrook has fallen through.

Queensland development company Consolidated Properties Group has made the commercial decision to not enter a contract to buy the marina and vacant land.

The marina property and freehold land, which is the property of Passage Holdings Limited, will remain under the control of liquidators after Queensland development company, Consolidated Properties Group, made the commercial decision to not enter into a contract to buy the Port Hinchinbrook assets.

Consolidated Properties chief executive officer Don O’Rorke said it was with great regret that the decision was made to withdraw from buying Port Hinchinbrook.

“The asset is well conceived, and well located, but does require work to bring it

to its full potential. The current difficulties in the construction market means we are unable to execute currently,” he said.

“The state government through its local member Nick Dametto has been extremely supportive of our investigations, as has Cassowary Coast Regional Council through its Mayor Mark Nolan and CEO Andrew Graffen.

“It is just unfortunate that circumstances have not allowed this project to proceed with us at this time.

“I’m sure the natural attributes of this project will see it brought to life, sooner rather than later.”

Port Hinchinbrook assets remain the responsibility of Offermans, the appointed liquidators.

Offermans principal and liquidator of Passage Holdings Michael Brennan said that while Consolidated Properties Group conducted their due diligence, Offermans con-

tinued to progress issues with the council and state government to reduce the legacy of problems in the development.

“We will be taking the properties to market as soon as we can finalise discussions with the state and council on a few issues,” he said.

The council is forging ahead with its plans to replace the existing sewage treatment plant and for emergency dredging, both of which has received federal and state government financial support.

Cr Nolan said the council had been working with state and federal governments to deliver good outcomes for the residents of Port Hinchinbrook and wider community.

Mr Dametto said Port Hinchinbrook was “a golden opportunity for the right developer, but with the rising cost of construction in the regions and the abundance of work in the south-east, it seems this time round it is a case of right project, wrong time for Consolidated Properties”.

Member for Hinchinbrook Nick Dametto at the Port Hinchinbrook marina. Picture: Supplied

Motoring

Growing appetite for EVs

l SURVEY

| Nick Dalton

RESULTS from a consumer survey commissioned by the BMW Group to coincide with World Environment Day on June 5 has found that one in two Australians (48 per cent) are open to having a battery electric vehicle (BEV) in their garage when they are next in the market.

The survey, conducted with more than 1000 adult Australians, also showed that while 50 per cent of Australians believe they would still own a conventionally powered vehicle in 2025, just eight per cent responded to say they would own one in 2040.

The BMW Group conducted

the nationwide survey with participants aged 18 to 75 years holding a valid driver’s licence.

A BMW Group spokesman said the data was gathered amid announcements by the federal government of policy framework to support the future uptake of EVs, including the plan to introduce a Fuel Efficiency Standard.

“The primary objective of the survey, conducted by insights agency Hall & Partners, was to gain valuable insights into public sentiment towards EVs and their perception of the existing charging infrastructure,” he said.

“Respondents were asked to share their opinions on various aspects of EV adoption, including concerns, motivations, and

preferences regarding charging options.”

The findings come just as sales of fully electric vehicles in Australia see further significant increases this year. In the first quarter of 2023, total market registrations were up 158 per cent compared with the same period last year, with the market share of BEVs accounting for 7.4 per cent of the total new vehicle market. In the same period last year that number was 2.9 per cent.

“The BMW Group also posted notable growth in sales of BEVs in the first quarter of the year, with registrations of BMW and Mini BEVs up 112 per cent and 213 per cent respectively.”

Key findings from the survey were:

1. Future purchase consideration: Forty-eight per cent of Australians expressed their willingness to consider purchasing an electric vehicle in the future. Notably, males between 18 and 34 exhibited a higher likelihood of considering an EV.

2. Perception of EVs: A significant 67 per cent of Australians believe that electric vehicles represent the future of transportation, with 65 per cent considering those who purchase EVs as early adopters of new technology.

3. Range anxiety remains a concern: While respondents exhibited interest in EVs, range anxiety

emerged as a prominent concern. Participants emphasised the importance of an extensive charging network and accessible charging stations to alleviate this concern.

4. Awareness of charging infrastructure: Only 31 per cent of Australians are aware of the nearest charging station to their homes, while 19 per cent are aware of the closest charging station to their workplaces.

5. Range requirements: Two in five Australians believe that a mileage range of 30km or less is sufficient for their day-to-day driving requirements. Most respondents indicated that a mileage range of less than

60km would suffice for their daily driving needs.

6. Barriers to adoption: The price of electric vehicles emerged as the primary reason for rejecting their purchase. Access to charging stations and lack of knowledge about EVs also played significant roles in their decision-making process.

The spokesman said BMW recognised the significance of the findings from the survey and affirmed its commitment to supporting sustainable transportation with low and zero emissions mobility solutions.

“Currently, BMW Group Australia offers 12 electrified models to consumers – including six fully electric offerings.”

A BMW i5 is plugged in at a fast-charging outlet. More buyers are looking at an EV as their next new vehicle, according to a survey of 1000 people conducted by BMW Australia. Picture: Supplied

Survey reveals 48 per cent of buyers would consider an electric car next time

Top prices at autumn auction

A CLASSIC 250km/h British grand touring car in ‘project’ condition needing a full restoration was the top-selling vehicle in Shannons Timed Online Autumn Auction which concluded on May 30.

The once-glorious 1967 Aston Martin DB6 Vantage vied for top honours in the 245-lot auction, finally selling after 10 bids for $226,000, with a 1993 Porsche 911 Carrera 2 Coupe ($186,000), a time-warp 2017 Holden HSV GTS-R sedan that has covered just 2036km since new ($153,000), and a rare 1995 V12-engined Ferrari 456 Coupe ($120,000) to take the honours in the week-long national auction.

Other exotic European GT cars to sell well included a left hand drive DeTomaso Pantera Coupe ($91,000) and a BMW 840Ci coupe ($38,500).

As expected from recent Shannons auctions, the top-selling lots of the sale were heritage black and white numerical number plates, with the early New South Wales-issued ‘31’ attracting a top bid of $1.648 million to win the ‘state of origin’ war over the Victorian plate ‘52’ ($1.457m) in the auction’s final hours. The triple digit VIC plate ‘535’ sold for $500,000, NSW ‘232’ sold for $470,000, NSW ‘421’ went for $311,000.

Companies sell more than 100,000 vehicles with Toyota No. 1

Record sales last month

l NEWS

| Nick Dalton

AUSTRALIA’S automotive industry has achieved its best-ever May sales result with 105,694 new vehicle deliveries.

This result is a 12 per cent increase on the same month last year and represents a 2.7 per cent increase on May 2017 which was the previous best May result. The year-to-date sales of 456,833 is 4.3 per cent higher than the same period last year.

There were increases in every state and territory with significant growth in Western Australia of 25.1 per cent and Queensland 17.4 per cent compared with May 2022. Growth was recorded in all buyer type market segments –private, business, government and rental – compared with May 2022.

Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) chief executive Tony Weber said the result was encouraging following many months where deliveries were hampered by shipping and logistics issues. “This result is a signal that we

are starting to see some improvement in supply,” he said.

“However, not all issues are resolved, and our members continue to work with their customers to improve vehicle delivery times.” Mr Weber said that, while

vehicle supply issues might be beginning to ease, the industry remained cautious around broader economic conditions and their potential impact on demand.

“A large proportion of vehicles delivered this month would have been

ordered during 2022,” he said.

“Since then, we have seen a shift in economic conditions with a focus on rising cost pressures for households and businesses. Nevertheless, reports from our members indicate that demand remains

firm.” Sales of battery electric vehicles were 7.7 per cent of the market in May and are running at 7 per cent year to date.

Sales for electrified vehicles (battery electric vehicle, plug-In hybrid and hybrid) made up 15.6 per cent of the market in May.

Toyota (18,340) was the market leader in May followed by Mazda (8475), Hyundai (7078), Kia (7000) and Ford (6251). The Toyota HiLux (5772) was No.1, followed by Ford Ranger (4110) and Tesla Model Y (3178).

The Toyota HiLux ute was the best seller in May, with 5772 units sold. Second was Ford’s Ranger (4110) and Tesla Y Model was third (3178). Picture: Supplied

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

Al-Anon can help you. Meetings held weekly at:

• Cairns City: Tuesday nights, 6pm to 7pm

• Edmonton: Thursdays, 12pm to 1pm

• Kuranda: Mondays, 11am to 12 noon For further information, Call 1300 25 2666 or www.al-anon.org.au

Friday June 9th

Cairns Night Markets: 54-60 Abbott St, 16:30-23:00

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

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

Redlynch Valley: Xavier Herbert Park, 17:00-20:00

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

FNQ Markets

Saturday June 10th

Babinda: Main St, 07:30-12:00

Cairns Night Markets: 54-60 Abbott St, 16:30-23:00

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

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

Mareeba: Mareeba Race Course, 07:30-12:30

Mareeba Make Bake & Grow: Mareeba Art Society, 08:00-12:30

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

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

Tully: Lions Park, 08:00-12:00

Sunday June 11th

Archer Creek: Rest Area, Kennedy Highway, 07:00-12:00

Atherton Lions Club: Merrilands Hall, 07:00-12:00

Cairns Night Markets: 54-60 Abbott St, 16:30-23:00

Cardwell Jetty: Cardwell Jetty Plaza, 08:00-13:00

Holloways Beach: Beach Foreshore, 08:00-13:00

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

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

Kurrimine Beach: Progress Hall, 08:00-12:00

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

Rusty’s

Young player representing FNQ on Gold Coast

Off to Aussie bowls open

a junior and there were only 14 of us. This open is over 1000 people and I’m representing us (FNQ), so it’s a big honour.”

peted over four days against 20 teams across Queensland and we played 12 games in a team of four,” he said.

MOSSMAN Bowls Club’s leading man Malachy McTaggart is gearing up to compete in the 2023 Australian Bowls Open in the Gold Coast from this weekend.

After taking third place in the state men’s district sides’ championship in early May and being selected as most valuable player at the tournament, the spirits are high for Mr McTaggart, who will take on the national stage from June 10-23.

“I’m a bit anxious but I’m also excited to step up and get into the biggest Australian tournament there is,” the 20-year-old said.

“My main goal is to be able to go down there and be seen by Queensland selectors, Australian selectors and hopefully have a chance to make it into these very big teams.

“I’ve never got a chance to represent the region since I was

A natural in bowls, Mr McTaggart started playing seven years ago, and beyond junior state championships under his belt, he really started to grow upon his return to the sport with Mossman Bowls Club.

“I started bowling nine years ago but really playing seven years ago,” he said.

“I could’ve done quite well when I was 17, unfortunately that year COVID hit and I lost my last year as a junior.

“Then I took an 18-month break and moved to Mossman and started playing socially with Mossman Bowls Club and a few of the bowlers invited me to bigger tournaments. From then on I’ve got a position in the Tropical Far North Queensland (TFNQ) side.”

Mr McTaggart said he had felt most honoured being selected as most valuable player in the last tournament. “We com-

Sport Results

MOSSMAN MEN’S BOWLS

June 1: 26 bowlers for social bowls. June: 34 bowlers for jackpot bowls. Peter Riley, Nev Tesch, Nev Fletcher d David White, Daryl Hoskin, Gary Horne 23-18. John Fleming, Jock Constantine, Joe Girgenti d Terry Richards, Peter Gorsuch, Peter Fairchild 29-20. Wayne Parkes, Tony Brlyack d Michael Sims Dave Egan 25-15. Col Widdows, Richard Anderson, Alistair Douglas d Sas, Peter Worley,Bob Carroll 24-13. Eric Smith, Jim Geddes, John Arnold d Dave Blain, Kiwi, Col Maxted 26-14 and the winners Steve Cue, Jeff Sims, Chris Payne d Steve Heffernan, Warren McCoist, Brian King 28-8. In the club championship, June 2 in the B grade singles, Gerrard Beech d Bruce Lester 25-19. June 4, in the A grade singles semi-final

Mick Frese d David White 2518 and in the B grade singles, Peter Fairchild d Troy Churchill 25-21. Men’s social bowls will be held June 15 from 5.30pm. Jackpot bowls this Saturday. To register call the club on 4098 1434.

BROTHERS EDMONTON

BOWLS

Ladies, Weipa Shield: Mareeba 1, Edmonton 2. Men’s, May 24: A. Del Favero, K. Holden, R. Jorgensen 1, A. Begg, R. Moody, D.Stewart 3, M. Bucklar, R. Pamphilon, J. Populin 3. Pennants div. 2 Gordonvale d. BEBC, Div. 3 Stratford d BEBC.

MOSSMAN LADIES’ BOWLS

June 1: Champion of champion pairs final winners were Joan Day and Robin Petrus d

“I personally felt like I hadn’t played up to my standard that week, but the other members had, so it was a huge achievement for me. It almost brought tears to my eyes when I heard it.”

With the boost and trust of his teammates and the club, Mr McTaggart is getting ready to travel this weekend on his own to Gold Coast to tackle the open.

“I will be playing with a Mossman uniform so anyone that sees me knows where I play and gets our little club seen,” he said.

Men’s section secretary David White said the club was proud of him. “On behalf of the men’s section we wish you all the best at the Australian open,” he said in a Facebook posting.

“Good luck mate playing well,” said Ben Cribbin also on Facebook.

Pauline Lightfoot and Leonie Sims. Social winners were Carmen Bolten and Greta Kessler, second were Margaret Cooper, Barbara May and Anne Geddes. For more information about the Thursday Ladies contact Carole Maxted: caroles44bb@dodo. com.au or 0400 954 537. May 28: Sunday mixed social bowls winners were Ian Bailey and Mike Sims, second were Mary McGrory and Anita McCoist.

MARLIN COAST BOWLS

Results of last week’s play. Tuesday morning bowls: Neil, Andy J 1, Ken Traill, Kaye Elliott 2. Tuesday afternoon men’s triples: Kevin, Geoff, Clive 1, Paul, Garry, Ross 2. Tuesday night bowls, spider: Michael, Deb, Keith Shooee, Rod. Wednesday mixed bowls: B. Clarkson, N. Hooker, L. Hamilton, C. Thompson 1, J. Baumann, A. Jennings, J. Jenner, J. Young 2. Thursday morning bowls: Kim, Ken, Laurie W

1, Bob, Jim, Jock 2. Thursday mixed triples: John, Gordon, Brian O 1, Olga, Christine, Jo 2. Saturday morning scroungers: Bob Waters 1. Club championships, men’s A grade singles: B. O’Connor d P. Callaghan 25-24, S. Porter d R. Gillman 25-18, J. Walford d G.Midson 26-15, D. Spicer d S. Vidgen 25-23, S Pitt d P Williamson 25-22. Ladies A grade singles: J. Whitehead d A. Lim 26-17.

EDGE HILL BOWLS

Ladies social bowls, June 1: Elaine Whitehead 1, Peter Whitehead 2. Pennant game 3 switched to Marlin Coast due to rain and Edge Hill lost to Marlin Coast 67-50.

T. McAlary 21-14 d C. Scott, J. Alexander lost 17-22 to B. Drewitt and J. Wild lost 12-31 to J.Whitehead.

Men’s championship bowls, club A singles: Lyle Braggins d Russell Hubbard 26-13 and Wayne Hewitt d Mal Taylor 25-

19. Club B singles: Rob Wilson and Peter Ryan both proceed with a forfeit from their opposition due to ill health. Club pairs Simon Vardy and Russell Hubbard d Wayne Hunter and John Hayes 25-7. Mixed social bowls, May 30: Ron Pearce, Tricia DeRon and Irene Crampton 1. George Taylor, Steve Bragger and Jill Alexander-Sachse 2.

WEST CAIRNS

LADIES BOWLS

Four members went to Silkwood on May 27-29 to play in the Weipa Shield.May 31: A grade singles, Liz d Joyce. June 7: Next round of A grade singles, Fran v Joyce (marker Edna), Liz v Pauline (marker Marg).

WEST CAIRNS

MEN’s BOWLS

May 30: D. Aumuller, M. Groodwool, J. Populin 1, B. O’Shea, A.Morris, J.Rilley 2. Thirsty Thursday best players: Lyn Barber, John Santer, Ian Tin-

der. A pairs: W. Vella, S. Hawels d M. Hetherton, S.Kavanagh 2824, Ted Hamilton, Phill Buntain d Jeff Smith, Steve Smith 31-18. Friday night scroungers: winner Geoff Rowley, Edna Parks 2. A singles: Alan Paraha d Steve Howells 25-10. June 4: N. Kehrer, D. Lazarvs, E. Harris 1, Larry, Vinny Moore, K. Vivian 2. Free game: N. Kehrer Jackpot not won.

WEST CAIRNS

TPI MEMORIAL BOWLS

Only 11 players were available last Monday won by the team of Gwen Cory, David Nicholls and led by Kevin Krump. Every Monday our club plays social mixed bowls on the carpet green at West Cairns Bowls Club. The game is non-competitive and always played in a friendly atmosphere. New and visiting bowlers are always welcome and can join us by phoning Rosemary on 0409 624 623 to be included. Game starts at 1.30pm.

Mossman bowler Malachy McTaggart has packed his bags and is off to the Gold Coast for the 2023 Australian Bowls Open. Picture: Mossman Bowls Club

l MOSSMAN

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

New exciting cricket format

Social players to come up against established teams in a first FNQ open

l EDMONTON | Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

IN what’s possibly a national first, the Cairns Last Man Stands (LMS) franchise will hold the first FNQ Open in July, where three teams from different cricket formats will compete for the trophy.

On July 9, from noon onwards, the Minniecon Oval at the Walker Road sporting precinct will host three cricket teams who will try their strength at LMS, some of them for the first time.

Last Man Stands is a social, eight per side, part of the T20 format, played in two hours where players can track their stats and rank locally, on a state, national and global level.

Cairns league manager and Mooroobool resident Jaime Newfield said the 2023 FNQ Open was the “first of its kind in Australia”.

“It’s rare for cricket organisations to play against LMS teams, and we’re trying to break down that barrier,” he said.

“We have the CFN (Cricket Far North) Young Guns (unofficial), which has the top 18-yearolds from the region who won the Queensland 16th state championships in 2021, the Defender Squad who are 90 on the na-

tional ranking and are the 2022 Cairns regional champions and the LMS Dream Team.

“The LMS Dream Team is a computer-generated team

selected from our batting and bowling rankings from winter 2023 results.

“With a mix of the best first and second-grade cricketers, it

will be an extremely high standard of cricket.”

Mr Newfield aims for the FNQ Open to become an annual event with more extensive

participation. “All games will be live-streamed with commentary on Youtube, and there may be multiple broadcasters on site,” he said.

“The open will be free to attend and watch on Youtube, the canteen will be open on the night, and spectators are encouraged.

“The aim is to secure this as an annual event and offer six spots next year. The tournament is open to any cricket team in FNQ to nominate even if they haven’t played LMS before, and that’s a first.”

The LMS Cairns league plays every Sunday at the Edmonton Sporting Precinct. Mr Newfield said all ages and abilities were encouraged to come and try.

“LMS player registration is free, it’s a great format for spectators also and with eight teams meeting at the same ground, it creates a wonderful social environment,” he said. For more information, visit lastmanstands.com/play-cricket/cairns

Top four footy teams score 24 goals last weekend

l FAR NORTH

THE top four teams in round 11 action of the FQ

Far North Queensland Premier League flexed their muscles over the weekend with 24 goals scored across the four games.

The Mareeba Bulls top the charts with a 9-1 win over the Redlynch Strikers, the Southside Comets where not far behind with a 8-1 win over the Stratford Dolphins, the Edge Hill Tigers came away with a 4-0 away to the Innisfail Cutters and the Leichhardt Lions won 3-0 against the Marlin Coast Rangers at home on Satur-

day night. The Southside Comets made their move into the top four with the 8-1 win over the Dolphins and look to be making a run at the right time of the season.

The Comets have now made their move into the top four and with games against the Redlynch Strikers and Marlin Coast Rangers before a clash against the Leichhardt Lions on June 24, the Comets can make strong claim for finals position in 2023.

The Edge Hill Tigers have opened up an 11-point lead at the top of the league with a impressive 4-0 win away to the Innisfail Cutters. In the la-

dies QPL, the Leichhardt Lions have opened up a six-point lead at the top of the ladder with two strong performances over the weekend against other top four rivals, a 3-2 win over Southside Comets Halleys on Friday night and a 3-0 win over Redlynch Strikers on Monday night gave the Lions the maximum six points on offer and with Edge Hill slipping up to the Redlynch Strikers 2-1, the Lions took full advantage.

Sandra Rosenkvist was pivotal in the middle of the park for the Lions, scoring one and using all her experience to guide the Lions around the park.

Cairns Bhutanese CA 2022 (from left, back row) Denjom Monger, Ashok Thapa, Tilchan Monger, Madan Monger, Aita Yamphu, (front row) Bishal Tamang, Dibas Bhandari and Sanjay Rai. Picture: Supplied

Sandra Rosenkvist from Leichhardt Lions was a key player. Picture: Ashleigh Lane Photography

Cairns Last Man Stands manager Jaime Newfield.