Cairns Local News May 10 2024

Local News Cairns

Banks safe for now

Westpac suspends regional branch shutdowns until 2027

l FAR NORTH

| Nick Dalton

WESTPAC is extending its moratorium on regional branch closures until at least 2027.

This involves 41 locations across regional Queensland, including Cairns Central, Earlville, Smithfield, Atherton, Mareeba, Innisfail, Tully, Ingham and Normanton, plus a business banking centre in Cairns.

The bank’s decision follows huge community backlash after branches were closed in the Cairns CBD (2022) and at Port Douglas (2023) as well as an intention to close one at Tully.

Consumer chief executive Jason Yetton said Westpac had been in Australia for over 207 years and the bank knew regional communities played a criti-

cal role in Australia’s economy. “We’ve heard the feedback from customers about the impact of branch closures in the bush and understand they face many challenges such as limited internet connectivity and increased travel times to their nearest branch,” he said.

“That’s why we’ll be investing more than $150 million in our branch network over the next two years.

“This commitment will support more than 2.2 million customers and 1000 employees who live and work in 182 regional areas and means we continue to give customers who prefer to do their banking in a branch, access to face-toface service for their banking needs and cash transactions.”

Mr Yetton said many regional areas were thriving business and job hubs.

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GO WILD IN THE CITY

Seasonal closures on cards

l CAIRNS REGION

| Nick Dalton

POPULAR, but dangerous waterways and waterfalls in the Cairns region may be closed during the wet season.

A Cairns Regional Council review is aiming to identity potentials ways to improve safety following three fatalities, including two at Isabella Falls in December, 2023 and on April 7, 2024, and at Crystal Cascades on March 10, 2024.

A coroner’s report released on April 16 into the Crystal Cascades death concluded that there were adequate warning signs with no recommendations for the council to take further preventative measures.

Coroner Stephanie Williams said the Japanese visitor known as ‘Mr G’ drowned after jumping from a waterfall at Crystal Cascades.

Cairns Koalas and Creatures wildlife keeper Emilie Servage with a resident blue-tongued lizard at their new PIer shopping centre venue. Picture: The CaPTA Group FULL STORY PAGE 4

“He jumped into the waterway at a location where swimming was prohibited. Mr G accessed that area despite adequate signage warning of the prohibition on swimming and the dangers in the waterway,” she said.

“In my view the signage was adequate to inform Mr G of the risks in the waterway and prohibitions on swimming and diving in the area into which he jumped.” The review will include Isabella Falls and Crystal Cascades.

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l CAIRNS CBD | Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

MORE than 1000 workers and their families marched on the streets of Cairns on Labour Day to celebrate the achievements of workers throughout history and the many challenges to come.

Cairns unions and union representatives from across Australia gathered to support the FNQ Council of Unions Labour Day Parade on Monday, May 6, where workers once again called for better work conditions, funding for public

schools, equality for female workers and better wages during the current cost of living crisis.

Marching from the Fig Tree Playground onto the Esplanade and back to the playground, the parade was led by special guests – the Women in Male Dominated Occupations and Industries (WIMDOI) union – comprised of women from across Australia and New Zealand, who are gathered in Cairns for the biennial WIMDOI conference.

Far North Queensland Council of Unions president Robert Hill said the occasion on Monday was both to celebrate work-

ers and to reflect on the upcoming challenges.

“Today we celebrate Labour Day in Cairns, and workers have gotten together to celebrate their forebearers and brace themselves for the challenges going forward,” he said.

“Labour Day is very meaningful, it’s the day that unionists look forward to the most.

“We’ve achieved a lot, Australia is a highly industrialised nation, we were one of the first to win an eight-hour working day, one of the first to recognise that we needed pay equity for women in the workplace but we’re not there yet.

“There’s isolated pockets of things we need to fight for, cost of living pressures are hurting people and we need to collectively bargain for better agreements and wage increases.”

Not only was this a momentous day for all workers but also for the Queensland Teachers Union which is celebrating its 135th anniversary.

“We’re celebrating our 135th birthday this year and it’s very significant this year because we’re in the middle of a campaign around the funding model for state schools,” said Far North Queensland QTU organiser Samantha Blocksidge.

“In Queensland we sit at 86 per cent of our Schooling Resource Standard and we’re pushing for 100 per cent SRS. This is what teachers want for us to keep being able to do what we do.”

Mr Hill reminded the Cairns community of the importance of supporting workers and joining a union.

“It’s more important than ever to be a part of your union and we need to stick together to deliver better outcomes,” he said.

View our gallery of the event online at www.cairnslocalnews. com.au

Katter welcomes bank freeze on branch closures

FROM PAGE 1

“With many regional areas being thriving business and job hubs, this also benefits our small and agri business customers who have built strong relationships with our bankers who live and work in the area, and understand the local business landscape.

“At the same time, we’ll work with our partners and local governments to improve regional services and the connection between our branches and local communities. We’ll

also look to invest in services where there is a growing customer need, including increasing business bankers.

“Westpac’s partnership with Australia Post is critical to regional Australia and its service network. With 96 per cent of Westpac customers living within 20km of a Bank@Post, this partnership provides cash services to 1800 communities in rural and regional areas.

“We’re investing more than $200m over 10 years in our partnership with Australia

Post. This allows customers to perform the majority of cash and cheque transactions at a Bank@Post.”

Katter’s Australian Party MP Bob Katter has cautiously welcomed Westpac’s latest announcement ensuring services remain operational in rural and regional Australia.

On Tuesday, Westpac told Mr Katter about the moratorium on regional branch closures until at least 2027, about one year after the North Queensland MP successfully

pressured the bank to reverse a decision to close branches in the Kennedy electorate.

Last year, Westpac had slated its Cloncurry, Ingham and Tully branches for closure, but following strong community resistance, it negotiated with Mr Katter to initially “pause” the closures, before later announcing the three branches would remain open.

Mr Katter said he thanked Westpac for listening and negotiating in good faith, and hoped other major banks

would take note. “Without banking there is no economy – you don’t have a local bank, you don’t have a local economy,” he said.

“North Queensland is the heart of the Queensland economy, it’s where all the wealth is generated to service and pay for our schools, hospitals, transport. And we need our governments, but also the major banks recognising this. They cannot be abandoning rural and regional Queensland,” Mr Katter said.

Cairns on Monday. Pictures: Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

Cairns ETU member Troy Kapea, FNQ Council of Unions secretary and Community and Public Sector Union member Elida Faith and CPSU member Teah Brockwell.

Local Briefs United independents

New councillors working together for region and their divisions

l CAIRNS REGION

| Nick Dalton

CAIRNS newest regional councillors – Matthew Tickner, Trevor Tim and Anna Middleton –are pledging to work full-time as councillors and as independents.

While the term “Team Cairns” has been bandied about, the trio are clear that they are part of Cairns Regional Council, not a team.

Both councillors Tickner (division 2) and Middleton (division 7) ran as independents while Cr Tim (division 4) was part of Mayor Amy Eden’s Team Eden.

However, Cr Tim said he did not “adhere to Team Cairns. To me, we’re councillors with Cairns Regional Council”.

Cr Tickner has a design and project management business, Ms Middleton is a senior physiotherapist and Cr Tim is a radio presenter as well as creating employment and career pathways for young Indigenous people in tourism.

But they all promise to work as full-time councillors with Cr Tickner saying “working for the people of division 2 and Cairns is my core focus for the next four years. Being a councillor is an unusual job, that in many cases requires a seven-day-a week commitment and some very irregular hours. It is not your typical 9-5”.

Cr Middleton said: “I am standing by my commitment to be the hard-working and engaged representative they elected, so it will be a full-time job”.

“Being a councillor is not your traditional 9-5 job.”

Cr Tim: “Yes, I am working full-time now as a councillor, adding very part-time with private company in the tourism industry Experience Co where I do Indigenous employment and career pathways for young First Nation people.”

Councillors Middleton and Tickner rate water security as their priority while Cr Tim has youth crime at the top of his list.

“Advocate and lobby to state government about youth crime, changing the laws to protect the people of Cairns,” said Cr Tim.

Cr Middleton said she was shocked recently when Cairns came within two hours of los-

ing its drinkable water supply – “this is the number one issue that faces our community”.

“That is why Cairns Regional Council is about to undertake the biggest capital works project in its history. It’s been many years of planning to get to this point and the time is now. We need the continued support of state and federal governments to build it, but then looking ahead it will be the biggest council asset to manage,” she said.

Cr Tickner said water security and cost of living were his biggest concerns.

“These two issues go hand in hand. The Cairns water security project will cost the Cairns Regional Council $472 million and represents the most significant water infrastructure spend since Copperlode Dam was constructed almost half a century ago,” he said.

“A project of this magnitude shouldn’t be placed on the back of our local ratepayers in our

current cost-of-living crisis. We require support from our state and federal counterparts to secure our most precious resource and provide cost-of-living relief to our community.”

Cr Tim said in his division he would “be approachable. Talk to me about your concerns and/or visions”.

Cr Middleton said her division was diverse and included Manunda, Manoora, Whitfield, Brinsmead and Edge Hill.

“I believe the common theme throughout is liveability, whether that’s paths, parks, green spaces, waste management, lighting, access, safety, drains, transport, animal management or planning. It all comes back to liveability for people,” she said.

“My priority is to engage with people to understand what maintains, challenges, or improves the liveability of their local environment, then advocate and act on that.”

Cr Tickner said division 2 had

experienced significant growth over the past decade and a shifting demographic.

“Growth has put significant strain on our infrastructure, and this is a core priority to be addressed.

“I also want to see more investment into our local suburban experience, this includes our parks and playgrounds, community spaces, sporting grounds and council facilities,” he said.

“It’s not ground-breaking stuff, the community understand we don’t have unlimited funds. It’s about being open and transparent about what needs to be done in the short term and what can be achieved in the long term.”

Cr Middleton said she would be holding regular gatherings with residents and ratepayers.

“This is a timely question as I have just booked in my stand outside Piccones IGA to engage with the community,” she said.

“That will be one of several places I intend to regularly set up the table that the locals saw throughout my campaign. I made a commitment to my community that I would have regular ‘talk to me’ sessions and I stand by that.”

Cr Tim said he would work closely with the community.

“Be engaged by making appearances in the division to all constituents. Businesses, sporting groups (for example I coach Kangaroos under-14 rugby league side),” he said.

Cr Tickner said Cairns was dealing with some significant challenges over the next few years, some significant milestones that will take more than a four- year term to resolve.

“The newly-elected council I am apart of have taken a longterm approach to ensuring the sustainability of our region is strong into the future, I would ask the community to come with us on this journey,” he said.

l WINE AND PAINTING

PAINT a picture and sip some wine at Edge Hill Memorial Bowls Club at a special event on Mother’s Day. Art teacher Emma Bryant will host “Painting with Emma – wine and watercolours” from noon until 2pm on Sunday. The cost is $75 per person, including an anti-pasto platter and two glasses of wine. Bookings are essential. Visit the club’s Facebook page and click on the QR code.

l WATER MEASURES

DOUGLAS Shire Council has relaxed water restrictions across the shire from level four to level three. Several factors have contributed to the relaxation. They include the end of the wet season, water conservation efforts of the community and tourism industry, as well as initiatives by the council to improve water security, therefore significantly reducing the potential for interruptions to water supply.

l MOTHER’S DAY

A MOTHER’S Day fair and kitten adoption day is being held at St Margaret’s Anglican Church, 230 Aumuller Street, Westcourt, tomorrow (May 11) 8am-noon. Car boot stall set-up 7am to 8am. Stalls cost $10 pre-paid (payment accepted at Maggie’s Thrift Shop, Mon-Fri 9am till 3pm, Sat 9am till noon, 5 Collinson St, behind the church). Phone 0409 552 423 or email admin@stmargaretscairns. com Thrift shop will be open. Cakes and plants for sale, garage sale as well as morning tea and a sausage sizzle. Raffle with great prizes. Knives and scissors sharpened for a $2 donation per blade.

l POTTERY FAIR

CAIRNS Potters Club is hosting the annual Mother’s Day Fair tomorrow from 8am to 2pm. There is free entry, children’s clay play and unique gifts for sale. The club is at 28 Grove St, Cairns North.

l PLATFORM

WORKS

MAINTENANCE works on the western viewing platform on the Cairns Esplanade, behind the Reef Eye ferris wheel, have started. The works are expected to take two months to complete and require the closure of the nearby footpath to stop public access.

Cairns newest regional councillors Trevor Tim (left), Anna Middleton and Matthew Tickner. Picture: Cairns Regional Council

CaPTA Group reopens wildlife tourism attraction on waterfront Audit of creeks, waterfalls

Up close at new city zoo

l CAIRNS WATERFRONT

| Nick Dalton

THE zoo within the city has returned.

Cairns Koalas and Creatures has opened at The Pier shopping centre.

Following the closure of the CaPTA Group’s Cairns ZOOM and Wildlife Dome last year – due to much-needed maintenance required at The Reef Hotel Casino venue – the tourism operator was determined to open another fauna centre in the CBD.

Cairns Koalas and Creatures involves “a captivating exploration spanning from the enchanting Great Barrier Reef to the tranquil mangroves, lush rainforests, sprawling woodlands, and finally, the rugged Outback”.

The original Woodlands Exhibit – in place since October of last year – highlights Australia’s distinctive woodland creatures and sheds light on the challenges they encounter in their native habitats.

Also on show are resident koalas Birra, Pavlova, and Nellie, as well as snakes, and other reptiles, birds such as Pacific emerald dove, rose-crowned fruit-dove, noisy pitta and rainbow lorikeet among others. There is also a large reef tank.

FROM PAGE 1

A council spokesman said the council’s audit would reference learnings from a comprehensive review of safety at The Boulders, Babinda, in 2022, which was adopted by the council in January, 2023.

The audit and review will involve:

• Site identification and inspections

• Identification and assessment of current risks at each site and severity

• Investigation of potential mitigation and/or control measures for each risk at each site

• Outline of the residual risks if control measures were implemented

• Details of costs associated with proposed control and mitigation measures

• Detailing an inspection regime for each site

• Identify necessary considerations and requirements for seasonal closures if applicable, and

• Establishing an assessment framework for sites across council where safety may be an issue.

The $650,000 project was funded with $163,000 from the Queensland Government’s Tourism Experience Development Fund.

CaPTA Group sales and marketing director Ben Woodward said the new experience showcased the incredible biodiversity of tropical north Queensland.

“From iconic koalas to vibrant reef fish, our attraction offers an up-close encounter with some of the region’s most beloved wildlife,” he said.

Group general manager Andrew Hearn said that the mission of the attraction was, not only to entertain, but also to educate visitors about the im-

portance of conservation and sustainability. “Through engaging exhibits and interactive experiences, we aim to inspire a deeper appreciation for the natural world and empower guests to become more responsible and conscious of the environments we live in,” he said.

Tourism Minister and Mem-

ber for Cairns Michael Healy said the city’s newest attraction would be a fantastic drawcard.

“The CaPTA Group has a great track record of creating new products and new tourism offerings in the Far North,” he said. “Visitors can now cuddle a koala and take a selfie with a blue-tongue lizard.”

“The audit and review will be included as a component of the aquatic strategy that will be presented to council at a workshop in mid-2024,” the spokesman said. “In the interim, council will actively monitor these sites and undertaking necessary actions where possible to improve public safety.”

Cairns Koalas and Creatures wildlife keeper Emilie Servage with a carpet python. Picture: The CaPTA Group

Honours for ‘golden girls’

l CAIRNS

| Isaac Colman

TWO of the Cairns Choral Society’s most outstanding members have been honoured for their contribution and service to the society during the ‘Songs of Love and Light’ event at Saint Monica’s Cathedral last week.

Presented by the society’s current and former musical directors Joanne Wright and Jan O’Donnell, longserving members Venera Walsh and Helen Villiers were each awarded a gold medal as a sign of appreciation for their longstanding and continuing contribution to the society.

Society secretary Heather Law said she was thrilled to commemorate the pair.

“To show our appreciation of their years of service, we thought it fitting to have them formally presented here tonight before an audience of our supporters,” she said.

“These gold medals are awarded to members who have – and still are –committed to providing outstanding service to the CCS."

Ms Law said that both women had contributed amazingly to the society for decades.

“Between them, these

ladies have been involved in the society for 88 years,” she said.

“Venera is probably well known to many of you.

“You could not have missed her over her 45 years, either singing in the choir, competing at the eisteddfods, particularly in the musical comedy section, performing at concerts, musicals, and more recently as director

$30m senior living centre Retirement village gets council nod

l MOSSMAN

| Nick Dalton

A $30 million retirement village at Mossman has been approved and is expected to give an economic boost to the beleaguered sugar town hard hit by December’s floods and pending mill closure.

Construction of Cooloola Waters is due to start between July and September and involves 57 single-storey units, a gymnasium, a multi-function hall, a communal kitchen, a swimming pool and a hobby shed.

spaces, an earth bund adjacent to Marrs Creek and the layout provides for a future connection to Jack St.

It is expected to be done in four to five stages and be completed in 18 months at the earliest.

of Spamalot and Les Misérables. “Helen’s 43 years include choir and stage work, but she has been a major asset behind the scenes.

“Working backstage with wardrobe and props, in theatre testaurant kitchens, and as a long serving committee person, even taking on the roles of vice president and society president.”

It is on council-owned land with a freehold land tenure at 47 Johnston Rd, adjacent to the Mossman District Hospital and the Salvation Army’s aged care facility.

Cooloola Waters also has a Tin Can Bay retirement village with 87 units plus extra stages planned.

Cooloola Waters managing director Gary Simonite said it would be built by their building division, depending on the availability of materials and labour.

He said there would be up to 35 jobs during construction and

it would be operated by a village manager, a maintenance person and a groundsman after completion.

Mr Simonite said already there had been four expressions of interest for the villas which had three bedrooms, two bathrooms and a single garage, covering 126sqm. The cost of each villa was estimated between $420,000 and $460,000.

The proposal also includes a two-storey building containing a gymnasium, multi-function hall, a communal kitchen and offices on the ground floor with two four-bedroom units above, a covered pool and change rooms, 22 on-street communal parking

Cooloola Waters won the tender for the land after nearly five months of presentations and negotiations with the Douglas Shire Council in October, 2022 and “after a hard fought battle with local RV operators to develop and construct this proposed new state-of-the art retirement village”.

The material change of use application was unanimously approved by the council last week.

Cr Michael Rees told the meeting that it would “address a big need for retirement living and is another example of a developer working with the council and working with the council planning scheme.”

Mayor Lisa Scomazzon said she expected construction would start soon.

It is the second retirement village at Mossman. The other is Good Shepherd Retirement Village.

Venera Walsh (left) and Helen Villiers of the Cairns Choral Society.

An example of a Cooloola Waters villa at Tin Can Bay.

Tourism chief resigns

l DOUGLAS SHIRE

FAMILY priorities have led to the departure of Tourism Port Douglas and Daintree (TPDD) chief executive officer Glen Hingley (below), who has been in the role for less than six months.

Tribute to police dogs

Statue and plaque honouring law canines to be installed at park

l AEROGLEN

TPDD chairman Cam Charlton said he appreciated Mr Hingley’s contributions during his tenure, particularly in guiding the industry through challenging times, including the aftermath of Tropical Cyclone Jasper in December.

“We understand the need for Glen to prioritise his family and wish him all the best,” he said.

“His leadership during this difficult time for the industry has been incredibly valuable.”

Mr Hingley said he had enjoyed working in the organisation alongside the region’s tourism industry.

“While this decision weighs heavily on me, my family’s wellbeing must come first,” he said.

“I have loved my time at TPDD but, unfortunately, living in Port Douglas hasn’t quite aligned with the needs of my family.”

Mr Charlton said the recruitment process offered the board the chance to review its strategic priorities, ensuring they remained aligned with industry shifts and opportunities.

| Nick Dalton A STATUE modelled on one of the Far North’s bravest police dogs – Police Dog 361 Axel –will be built at Aeroglen’s dog park in recognition of the role police service canines play in the community.

Cairns regional councillors voted unanimously in favour of a plaque and statue last Wednesday.

Police dog handler David Raymond, on behalf of the Lions Club of Cairns Trinity Bay, applied for the installation of a statue and plaque of PD Axel to commemorate all working dogs of the Queensland Police Service. The club will fund the project.

Axel served the community, along with his handler, from April, 2015 to November, 2022, and was responsible for the location of many offenders, including the most wanted man in Australia – Graham Potter at Ravenshoe in 2022 – who evaded police for 12 years.

Cr Brett Moller (division 1) said the contributions made by the Cairns Dog Squad – and PD Axel who died last year – keeping the community safe were worthy of acknowledgement.

“These dogs are used often to track missing persons, sometimes with mental health issues

and find them and safely return them,” he said.

“The Cairns Police Dog Squad was established in 1982 where today they have six handlers and eight dogs.

“Five of those dogs are for

general purpose and three are used for drug detection.

“We know that the dogs are there to track offenders – often in volatile situations where offenders are armed – and those dogs work to protect, not only

police officers, but members of the community as well.

“Axel was a long-serving police dog and I feel it is great recognition.”

Cr Moller said the memorial “brings a lot of value to the community”. He said he was “ecstatic” it would be built at the Aeroglen dog park near the touch footy grounds which was popular with dog lovers and also with people walking the paths and the Yellow Arrow.

Police dog handler David Raymond with the late police dog Axel. Inset: The proposed plaque. Pictures: Supplied

Bigger floods are possible University expert warns that

l CAIRNS REGION

| Nick Dalton

A GEOSCIENCE expert is warning that Cairns could get an even bigger flood than what happened last December.

Jonathan Nott, professor of geoscience at James Cook University, said the December event was the city’s biggest flood in 110 years.

“The last time the (Barron River) floodplain was covered

with water like that was in 1977, and it wasn’t as high as we had last year,” he said.

But Prof Nott said last December’s flood was not overly big in terms of what Cairns could get.

“Geological evidence points to at least one flood at an unknown time in the past that was at least double the size of what happened in December 2023,” he said.

“They can occur, they have occurred and presumably they

region needs to plan for larger

will again.” Prof Nott said scientists knew the world was warming.

“We know there’s more moisture in the atmosphere, we know that rainfall events are becoming more intense, floods are becoming larger,” he said.

“Cyclones are going to become more intense. We know these things are happening, so we need to plan properly for them.”

Prof Nott said councils and governments might find future

natural disasters more expensive if they did not become more restrictive about development in natural disaster-prone areas.

“We do need a better planning scheme. We need a different economic approach and political approach to try and solve this, because it’s not going to get any better,” he said.

Prof Nott, along with Prof Bob Wasson, Dr Han She Lim and engineer Iain Brown hosted the “December 2023 Barron River flood – overview, histori-

weather events

cal context and the future” at JCU’s Smithfield campus on Tuesday night.

In the meantime Cairns Regional Council is developing a plan to assist the community on its path to recovery.

The council has partnered with JCU to conduct a rapid social needs assessment to identify those needs the community feel are important to support their recovery and long-term resilience.

A council spokesman said the survey would aim to understand

both short-term and mediumterm recovery needs (up to 12 months), with a view to understanding longer-term support requirements. “This information will support council and its regional partners in promoting and supporting recovery across the Cairns local government area,” he said. The spokesman said the survey was open until today, was anonymous and no identifying personal information would be collected.

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Sugar research in the spotlight

l GORDONVALE

| Nick Dalton LATEST research activities and technologies aimed at ensuring a sustainable and prosperous future for the Australian sugarcane industry were on show at Sugar Research Australia’s Meringa Field Day last week.

About 80 growers, millers and other industry partners gathered at SRA’s Meringa Station at Gordonvale, where they had the opportunity to talk one-on-one with the researchers and scientists behind the broad scope of SRA’s research project work, as well as other local productivity improvement activities.

SRA is the principal research organisation for the Australian sugarcane industry and one of its core functions is crossing and selecting new varieties of sugarcane for commercial use.

SRA’s northern variety development manager Dr Felicity Atkin conducted tours of the station’s variety development program throughout the day and gave an update on northern cane varieties.

“If you’re not familiar with the sugar industry, you’re probably unaware that there are over 100 different varieties of sugarcane that are grown across Australia,” she said.

“Growers choose which varieties they plant, depending on their local farm conditions, and the variety’s various productivity and agronomic characteristics which includes cane yield, sugar content, ratooning ability, disease resistance, harvestability and more.”

Dr Atkin said the crossing and selection process for new varieties and release for commercial use was a complex process, taking approximately 12 years.

“At any one time, the Meringa experiment station has over 60,000 unique individual seedlings, clones and varieties planted for crossing and selection purposes,” she said.

SRA Far North district manager Gavin Rodman said this year’s field day included an engaging lineup of presentations and displays involving variety development processes, automated irrigation technologies, using drones for research, chemical controls and weed management.

SRA’s northern variety development manager Dr Felicity Atkin (left) with East Trinity cane grower David Wah Day. Picture: SRA

Kids getting close to nature

l BENTLEY PARK

KINDERGARTEN children are getting close to nature as part of Small Steps Academy’s Bush Kindy Adventures.

Educator Jodie Dolan said in the heart of nature’s playground, "our young adventurers become explorers of the wild, discovering the secrets of the bush firsthand".

“Our Bush Kindy program offers kindergarten children an extraordinary opportunity to embark on thrilling expeditions into the untamed beauty of Far North Queensland’s bush environment, transforming

ordinary days into extraordinary adventures,” she said.

“Led by passionate educators, these excursions provide immersive learning experiences that extend far beyond the confines of traditional classrooms.

“From identifying native flora and fauna to building shelters and navigating through rugged terrain, every moment in the bush kindy program is a lesson in resilience, problemsolving, and collaboration.

“As children conquer new challenges, they develop confidence and a profound connection with the natural world that will guide them

throughout their lives.

“In the midst of towering trees and cascading waterfalls, children cultivate a deep appreciation for the wonders of nature and the importance of conservation.

“Through hands-on activities and guided discussions, they learn to become stewards of the environment, nurturing a sense of responsibility for the world around them."

Ms Dolan said the program also celebrated the rich cultural heritage of Far North Queensland’s Indigenous communities through storytelling, art, and traditional practices.

Moves to block dangerous reptiles at Lake Placid priority on political agenda

Croc-free weir high on list

l KAMERUNGA

| Nick Dalton

A PROPOSAL to croc-proof Lake Placid and make it safe for swimming and training is ramping up.

Cairns deputy mayor Brett Olds is pushing for a round table discussion involving Transport and Main Roads, the council and sugar company MSF. He is hoping that moves by the council to lodge an $11 million Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements submission for the proposed replacement and

betterment of the 200m bridge/causeway part of the Lower Kamerunga cycleway – which suffered significant damage after Cyclone Jasper – will lead to the creation of a weir to prevent crocodiles from entering the waterway.

Cr Olds said MSF also had to rebuild a rail bridge wrecked in December’s floods. He said all parties could “chip in” and create the croc-proof weir as part of the rebuilding process.

He said he believed Barron River MP Craig Crawford and LNP candidate Bree James would make commitments

to the proposal during the state election campaign this year.

Cr Olds told last week’s council meeting that he wanted to ensure that the $11m application did not lock the council in for future funding submissions for the weir idea.

He was assured by finance and business services director Lisa Whitton and infrastructure and assets director Mark With that the council could go back to ask for more funding.

Cr Olds said the proposal would take one or two years because it involved

engineering studies and assessment of environmental impacts.

The lake is currently a zone B or active removal zone which is suited to areas of rivers, creeks and wetlands where crocodiles are frequently in proximity to large urban populations.

All crocodiles, regardless of size or behaviour are targeted for removal.

Zone A or barrier and removal zone is suited to areas where there are physical barriers that are generally effective in preventing crocodiles from entering the area. This applies, for example, to

Aplins Weir in Townsville in the dry season. Any crocodile in this area is targeted for removal, regardless of size or behaviour.

In 2021 a croc was removed at Lake Placid after a man was bitten by the reptile around the head and shoulders.

In 2020 a 2m croc was also removed.

Last year Cr Olds told a council meeting that it was time to make the area totally free of crocodiles. He said when he was in his teens he trained in the lake for triathlons and it was used by nippers during the stinger season.

Small Steps senior early childhood teacher Nicole Deloryn with her youngsters participating in Bush Kindy. Picture: Supplied

Heart Week: Redlynch woman urges people to get genetic diagnosis

Testing saved her life

l CAIRNS NORTH

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

AFTER a genetic diagnosis of cardiomyopathy at Cairns Hospital saved her life and raised awareness within her family, Redlynch resident Maylene Rudan is encouraging the community to get genetic heart testing at Cairns Hospital.

Seventeen years ago, a set of concerning symptoms like intense heart palpitations and blackouts raised alarms for Ms Rudan who decided to go to Cairns Hospital where she received a diagnosis of cardiomyopathy, a condition where an enlarged heart muscle causes the heart to lose its ability to pump blood well.

If left untreated, cardiomyopathy can lead to heart failure.

“I was getting a lot of severe palpitations and little blackouts happening. I saw the doctor and got referred to a cardiologist and was diagnosed with cardiomyopathy,” she said.

“When my cardiologist Dr Joseph Ling learned I had a brother that also had been diagnosed with cardiomyopathy, he put two and two together and he said he’d like my condition to be investigated at the genetic testing clinic at Cairns Hospital.

“I had the test done and it

was almost 12 months before the results came through and proved that there was a genetic fault that shows as cardiomyopathy.

“Since then, my brother and sister got tested, she came back negative but he also has the gene. My niece has been found to also have it, so now their children will be on the lookout for symptoms and get checked

as soon as they show up.”

Ms Rudan said getting tested was easy and free with a GP referral.

“The process was very easy. My family went through a GP and got a referral, it’s quite a smooth process and once we’re aware if we’ve got it or not, it’s up to the family members to follow through,” she said.

“I can’t praise the genetic

Ask any Queenslander and they will tell you we’re number one. Number one for sunshine and lifestyle. We are also number one to benefit from coal royalties.

Coal royalties help to pay for cost-of-living support like electricity rebates and free kindy. They also help pay for infrastructure and services.

clinic enough knowing that other members of my family can find out if they’re at risk. It’s also a free service to be tested, which is a great bonus.”

Cardiology genomics clinical nurse coordinator Natalia Morris said the clinic was, not only innovative, but meant patients didn’t have to go to Brisbane to get diagnosed.

“This clinic is designed to

give these families access to a well-supported and coordinated one-stop shop, accessing specialist clinical care, ongoing management and surveillance, while using genetic testing to identify those family members who are at a higher risk,” she said.

Genetic testing at Cairns Hospital is available for people between Mackay and Saibai Island.

Extra learning spaces

l FAR NORTH

TRINITY Bay and Tully state high schools are getting “flexispaces” – areas where students who struggle in mainstream teaching classrooms can retreat to and learn on a different level.

The state government has announced 34 additional flexi-spaces across Queensland at a cost of $45 million.

Education Minister Di Farmer said flexi-spaces were a great tool to help schools respond to students who were experiencing challenges.

“Early intervention is so important, which is why we are trialling flexi-spaces in primary schools for the first time,” she said.

“They allow the participating students to remain close to their school friends, maintain a regular school routine, continue to be a part of their school community and continue their schooling with an uninterrupted curriculum.

“The children will be able to maintain connection with the rest of the school, they will attend classes with their peers, wholeof-school activities and routines, while receiving the support they need to thrive.”

Member for Cairns Michael Healy said “Trinity Bay State High School leaders, teachers and staff already do an amazing job, and this will be another resource and option for them to keep delivering for local students.”

Queensland is the world’s largest exporter of coal used to make steel for wind turbines and electric vehicles needed for the global transition to clean energy. This demand means a record 44,000* people have jobs in Queensland coal mines.

Everyone benefits from coal royalties

Cardiac patient Maylene Rudan (left) and clinical nurse Natalia Morris at Cairns Hospital. Picture: Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

Not-for-profit toy group at wit’s end after break-in and vandalism New police chopper

Library’s plea for help

l MANOORA

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

AFTER several acts of vandalism and a major break-in on April 14, the Cairns Toys Library is appealing to Cairns Regional Council and the community for support to strengthen their security.

The not-for-profit library in Pease St, Manoora, provides struggling families with toy loans for children ages 0-12. It is no stranger to acts of petty crime since their relocation to the venue on 2019, but the situation has become unbearable after a break-in on Sunday, April 14 where the accessible door was smashed, and key items to the operation of the organisation, like a laptop, iPad and internet dongle, were stolen.

“We’ve had many issues since the beginning. They’ve broken into our shed a few times, we’ve had someone come and take all our copper piping from the outside of the building, and then this happened,” said Cairns Toy Library president Ailsa Horsburg.

“All of our digital stuff was taken – laptops, iPads, things that we can’t cope without because all of our borrowing and cataloguing is done online. They went through the toys and took some, they’ve taken all our sta-

tionery right down to the sticky tape and all of our tools,” she said.

“There are no cameras, and the building doesn’t even have a telephone line and we can’t afford to put one in.”

Ms Horsburg said security was a priority for the organisation as it continued to grow.

“Security is at the top of our priority list for this year,” she

said. “We currently have 150 families and we’re just keeping our heads above water.

“Right now we have no support whatsoever, state or council. We need sponsors or council support to help us get government grants, which would help with infrastructure costs to improve our security.

“We can’t afford to save, which is necessary to access a

grant, because we don’t want our memberships to be out of reach for anyone (a standard membership is $60/year) especially during a cost-of-living crisis.

“We approximately save families $3000 a year on toys, and toy libraries are also environmentally-friendly because we’re preventing people from buying more cheap plastic toys that will

go to landfill, so we would really like as much help as we can get.”

The library is currently holding a Cupcakes for a Cause fundraising sponsored by Jackley’s Bakehouse.

To support this fundraiser, donate or sponsor, visit the Cairns Toy Library’s Facebook page or email cairnstoylibrary@gmail.com

l FAR NORTH

| Isaac Colman

THE Far North is getting its own dedicated police helicopter. When, how much and who will operate Polair has yet to be decided but Police Commissioner Steve Gollschewski said having a helicopter dedicated to policing operations would help protect both the Far North community and police.

“Bolstering resources for police will help our frontline now and into the future, as the organisation continues to grow,” he said.

Following Townsville’s recent $3 million investment in an EC135 twin engine helicopter proving to be extremely successful, Queensland Police have advocated strongly alongside Cairns MPs to allow for a Polair capability trialled in Cairns.

The start has yet to be confirmed but Polair capabilities include an advanced camera, thermal imaging, and night vision features to ensure that police operations in regional areas, such as tracking offenders, surveillance operations and search and rescue missions, are significantly enhanced.

Member for Cairns Michael Healy said he had heard firsthand from police officers just how much difference a Polair helicopter made to police operations. Townsville’s police helicopter was in Cairns last week.

Cairns Toy Library president Ailsa Horsburg is calling for community support after a major break-in on April 14.

Pictures: Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

Home for beaches Lions club

l HOLLOWAYS BEACH

MARLIN Coast Lions Club has been granted a lease over a shed in Syd and Jane Granville Park at Holloways Beach by Cairns Regional Council.

Cr Rhonda Coghlan (division 8) said the club had been looking for a home for some time to store its emergency trailer and equipment which had been kept at members’ properties.

She said the club had been “very patient” while the shed was used as the Cyclone Jasper Holloways Beach hub.

A council spokesman said the club provided “important support to the Cairns community, including assistance to those in need during emergencies, and has raised and donated over $60,000 towards local, national and international projects”.

“The shed will provide storage for the club’s equipment, used for community and disaster support, including first aid equipment, barbecue equipment, signage, gazebos, bottled water, soft drinks, cooking equipment and eskies,” he said.

Golden boot to gleam

“During the recent Tropical Cyclone Jasper and subsequent flooding event, Syd and Jane Granville Park remained relatively unaffected by flood water and was used as a staging area and hub during the emergency and following recovery period coordinated by the Holloways Hub volunteers donation.” An artist’s impression of the freshened Golden

Town’s iconic statue and street upgrade

l TULLY

| Nick Dalton

WORK has started on Tully’s famed ‘Golden Gumboot’, and park and street upgrades.

Some aspects will be completed in time for the town’s 100th celebrations next month and paused during the weekend of events.

Cassowary Coast Regional Council has awarded a $1.3 million contract to JMAC as the lead contractor for stage one of the Banyan Park beautification project and Butler St safety upgrade.

Queensland Government’s Works for Queensland program contributed $870,000.

Mayor Teresa Millwood said the council was pleased the project had started.

“This is just the first stage of a long-term vision toward the beautification of Banyan Park and Tully’s CBD,” she said. A council spokesman said Butler St served, not only as a primary street for vehicles and pedestrians, but also as a communal hub where locals and visitors gathered to dine, unwind, and engage.

“This upgrade will entail the redesign of all garden beds to ground level,

SALE OF LAND FOR OVERDUE RATES

enhancing the streetscape while ensuring a safe pedestrian flow along Butler St. The rejuvenated gardens will boast a diverse array of trouttolerant foliage,” he said.

The spokesman said stage one would introduce a new gumboot plaza designed for accessibility, featuring a blend of soft and hard landscaping, lush trees, interpretive signage, and pedestrian enhancements, for safe passage between the park and Butler St.

“In light of the Tully 100 celebrations scheduled for early June 2024, council has scheduled the works to minimise disruptions to the town centre and to enhance the CBD area ahead of the event,” he said.

“Subsequent to the Tully 100 event, the Golden Gumboot will undergo temporary closure to facilitate necessary work in this area.”

Construction will mainly be on weekdays between 7am and 5pm, with temporary disruptions expected on Butler and Hort streets, as well as at the park. For information on the project, visit the Your Say site https://bit.ly/3WDMF4e or contact 1300 763 903

In accordance with Chapter 4, Part 12, Section 142 of the Local Government Regulation 2012, Cassowary Coast Regional Council hereby gives notice that unless payment of all overdue rates together with any expenses incurred on the following land is paid, the said land will be sold by public auction on:

1 June 2024 commencing 10.00am

Shire Hall Foyer, Innisfail Shire Hall, 70 Rankin Street, Innisfail

3 Carney Street, DARADGEE Q 4860

Tenure: Freehold

Land Area: 0.1012 Ha

Legal Description: L42 RP703990

Title Reference: 20662163

Bruce Highway, COWLEY Q 4871

Tenure: Freehold

Land Area: 10.7200 Ha

Legal Description: L73 SP326862

Title Reference: 51329031

14 Margaret Street, SILKWOOD Q 4856

Tenure: Freehold

Land Area: 0.0607 Ha

Legal Description: L20 S7932

Title Reference: 21170073

7 Golden Cane Crescent, CARDWELL Q 4849

Tenure: Freehold

Land Area: 0.0900 Ha

Legal Description: L59 SP174367

Title Reference: 50560525

8 Keith Williams Drive, CARDWELL Q 4849

Tenure: Freehold

Land Area: 0.1074 Ha

Legal Description: L63 SP196157

Title Reference: 50656536

All lands will be sold subject to any Mortgage, Lien, Bill of Sale, Caveat, Judgment, Writ or other Charge, Agreement or Process registered against or in any way affecting the property in favour of the Crown or any Crown instrumentality or any persons representing the Crown.

All enquiries should be directed to the Principal Rates and Revenue on 1300 763 903.

Andrew Graffen Chief Executive Officer

Gumboot in Tully. Picture: Cassowary Coast Regional Council

Lettersto the editor

In the last edition we asked: What do you think about pharmacists being allowed to prescribe medications for 17 illnesses? Here are some of your comments.

Instead of pharmacists getting funding, it should be put into developing and supporting more nurse practitioners (NP) item numbers.

- Ingy Hagne, Facebook

We need both. We are very supportive of NPs, we need more of them.

Pharmacy Guild national president

- Trent Twomey, Facebook

Why not, they know medicine.

- Emily Georgie Gal, Facebook

Doctors know diseases, surprisingly not all diseases need drugs. Do pharmacists have the capacity to drop dispensing to see someone? You will be waiting longer for your prescription.

- Mark Raines, Facebook

Will take the pressure off GPs for sure. Very much needed.

- Kylie Boswell, Facebook

I am incredible apprehensive about pharmacists accessing prescription rights and

responsibilities. The prescriber and dispenser are intentionally always been separate roles for double checking doses and safety. There will be medication errors. I’ve seen a child end up in ICU when a commonly-prescribed medication was mis-prescribed by a pharmacy. There are mistakes even with a double tier checking system – there will be more with a single prescriber/ dispensing system.

- Rebecca (surname withheld), via email

Great win for the public. It can take up to three weeks to get into a doctor, so to be able to receive help “quickly” for certain issues is a big win for everyone.

- Mark Turnbull, Facebook

It is fantastic. It is often challenging to see your GP, especially on short notice when you have sick children. Pharmacists have the knowledge and skill set to prescribe and it will take pressure of GPs.

- Eva Rose Gilmore, Facebook

Aileen Traves, Cairns North

Ryan, Redlynch

William Lenard, Coolangatta

Gazza’s Gossip

Sugar town not always so sweet

l MOSSMAN

NOW into May, we are approaching the six month point since Cyclone Jasper’s visit and subsequent rainfall. Weeks on, the ground still seems to be fairly saturated each time it rains.

In terms of recovery, where exactly is the Douglas shire at now, half a year on?

Within a few days of the initial flood, many businesses got their heads down and backsides up and mucked out, often without power and water. By doing this, they were back in business as quickly as possible.

Unfortunately, not all businesses were able to do this, maybe due to insurance

issues and other ‘red tape’, or possibly just the sheer level of damage.

Examples include one of the local pharmacists, a much-missed bank, the Court House and the Services Australia building. For the latter two, they have fortunately been able to find alternative accommodation while internal repair work is being carried out.

Further north, Daintree Coast residents, together with Douglas Shire Council, have come together in the hope that the state government can provide funds to improve the current Noah Bridge bypass. Work is planned for a complete replacement of Noah Bridge, with a temporary rock crossing just to the left of the bridge.

The council recently asked residents and businesses to submit letters about the importance of funding for the improvement works. Their replies, together with the council’s request for financial assistance, has been forwarded to the state government. Fortunately for locals and visitors to the sugar town of Mossman, all eateries are fully functional for an early breakfast, lunch, or just a coffee, so I’d recommend that all readers pay a visit sometime soon.

On the topic of ‘sugar town’, there still seems to be much confusion as to whether there is a future, or not, for the historic Mossman Mill.

While some locals suggest that there

hasn’t been a future for a long time and that we need to move on, supporters of the mill think differently.

Those with the biggest interest, of course, are Douglas shire cane farmers themselves. Having invested in the order of $15 million dollars into next year’s season and with an estimated $60m dollars of cane that could go to waste, this is simply not an issue that can be ignored.

The cane farmers that I have spoken to told me say they have no idea what is going on.

In fact, a couple have asked me if I know anything. Do they keep maintaining their current crop, at some significant expense, in the hope that the mill gets at least one more year? Another suggestion

is that the cane could be transported to a different location such as Gordonvale.

The last option does sound like a logistical nightmare, but more frustratingly for those in the industry, it’s ‘not knowing’ that is the problem.

I have been led to believe that a small number of staff members are still maintaining the Mossman Mill, so maybe there is still a last-minute solution? We await more news.

I’m off to support a local business, so for now it’s Gazza signing out.

Send your stories to gazza@ cairnslocalnews.com.au

l PORT DOUGLAS

WHEN Port Douglas local Alec Coyle got told, by the boss, that he was to take a day off, little did he know what a day it would be.

The MRI radiologist was told that his scanner was due for some maintenance, so it would be best to have a day at home.

Rather than sitting around, Alec entered the midweek competition at his local – the Palmer Sea Reef Golf Club.

It was just another steady round until the 15th hole, when a well struck 3 wood found its way straight into the hole.

When asked if he’d ever had a ‘hole-in-one’, Alec said: “I’ve never seen one, let alone had one.” Alec received a club certificate and he will be added to the exclusive clubhouse ‘hole-in-one’ board.

Ace day for Alec

Above and top: Bendigo Bank still in the process of renovations. Above and top: Mossman’s cafe’s are very much open for business.

Mossman is still waiting for its pharmacy to open.

The Mossman cane industry still awaiting some news.

Health and Wellbeing

Become aware of epilepsy

Free education and networking event for those associated with disorder

l STRATFORD

GET epilepsy-aware and seizure smart this May with a free education and networking event for people with epilepsy and their families.

Epilepsy Queensland chief executive officer Chris Dougherty said the event covered everything from epilepsy management to seizure first-aid and how to administer emergency medication.

“The event is also designed to help people connect with the local epilepsy community, develop vital networks and understand the resources you can draw on through Epilepsy Queensland,” he said.

“Too often people with epilepsy feel isolated and misunderstood and experience difficulties when it comes to education, employment and social connection.

“That’s part of the reason why we run these events – to let people know that help is available and that there are many more people in the same boat. Building that connection and those networks is so important.”

For Clifton Beach woman Alison Jackson, epilepsy has always been part of her life.

“I originally had seizures at twomonths-old, from an infection as a baby,” she said. “Then, at 11-years-old, I was diagnosed. I was quite scared, being

the only kid at my school with epilepsy.

Ms Jackson said she was committed to raising awareness of the challenging neurological condition, and credits an “excellent” GP with helping her manage the condition.

“I check in with my GP every month to see if there are any problems and, if any do arise, I know that I can always request an appointment at the local hospital,” she said.

“Epilepsy Queensland has been an excellent rock of support to me and my family, especially over the last few years.

“Any time I needed help with seizures or after a hospital admission I can call them for help and advice.”

Ms Jackson said with epilepsy presenting in a range of different ways –far beyond the single depiction we see on TV screens – many people felt out of their depth when they encountered someone having a seizure, or don’t even realise that that’s what’s happening.

“Learn seizure first-aid. You never know if you will help someone in an emergency and the person will be grateful you did,” she said.

• Join Epilepsy Queensland at Stratford Library, 11 Kamerunga Rd, Stratford on Wednesday, May 15 at 10am.

• Places are limited, so book by calling 1300 852 853.

Alison Jackson, of Clifton Beach, vows for Epilepsy Queensland and their support. Picture: Supplied

Cancer centre’s 5th birthday

l MANOORA

COUCH (Cairns Organisation United for Cancer Health) Wellness Centre at Manoora is celebrating its fifth birthday with the opening of stage 2.

A ceremony marking the milestone is on Saturday, May 18, and the official opening of the second stage which contains four pavilions containing meeting rooms for a host of organisations to use.

COUCH board chairman Dr Scott Davis said “this commemorative ceremony symbolises, not just five years of service, but five years of dedication, resilience, and support to our cancer-impacted community”.

“We are immensely proud of what we have achieved together,” he said.

Centre operations manager Amanda O’Shea said the fifth birthday celebration was not just about looking back – “it’s about looking forward with gratitude and excitement for the journey ahead and how we can reach and support more locals”.

“We invite everyone to join us and be a part of this special day.”

Following the ceremony, from noon to 3pm, the centre will open its

doors to the community for a day of celebration.

Cairns locals are invited to take part in interactive workshops, service showcases, 15-minute massages, kids’ activity zones, art classes, and a refreshing smoothie bar. Every visitor will have the chance to win a luxurious two-night stay in an island suite for two, inclusive of daily breakfast and return transfers on the Fitzroy Flyer.

A COUCH spokeswoman said the new pavilions could be used by healthcare, education, social services, or cultural initiatives under one roof.

“At the heart of this development is our unwavering dedication to serving the needs of our community,” she said.

“By bringing together a diverse range of services under one roof, we aim to make essential resources more accessible and empower individuals and families to thrive.

“Generous financial support for the construction of the pavilions was secured through substantial contributions from the Mills Family Foundation, alongside other bequests.” For more information on how to support COUCH or learn more about their initiatives visit www.couch.org.au

Centre executive officer Emily Rossi (left) and corporate services manager Karen Maunsey in one of the new pavilions.

Picture: Supplied

l

hotel and No.1 hotel places. It was rated No.1 in Australia ahead of Emporium Hotel South Bank in Brisbane and thirdlaced MACq01 Hotel in Hobart.

TripAdvisor said the hotel was “a lovely spot for a peaceful break”.

“Its beach access, beautiful setting, and two crystal clear pools make it an inviting place to unwind,” it said.

“You’ll find well-appointed rooms and an excellent restaurant to satisfy your cravings.

“The atmosphere is calming, thanks to the friendly and attentive staff who go the extra mile, offering personalised experiences, complimentary sorbet, and cocktails at designated times.

“Its prime location makes it easy to explore nearby attractions, like walking tours and fishing, while the spa, fitness classes, and secure parking add to the overall appeal.”

“These accolades reflect what we are hearing from our guests –they want remarkable customer service in a relaxed and beautiful boutique property where they can take time out for rest, relaxation and rejuvenation,” he said.

“The adults-only environment at The Reef House allows guests to truly get away from the responsibilities of their day-today lives and that is now reflected in our boutique property’s name change to The Reef House Adults Retreat.

“We have also launched Residency at The Reef House as many guests are now requesting stays of 10 to 31 nights for their return escapes to paradise.

“These longer escapes include tailored preparation of a guest’s room to suit their personal preferences, meal planning for each week, and limousine transfers to and from Cairns Airport.

“Our escape planning team curates a personalised itinerary for every guest incorporating our more than 21 complimentary ‘Signature Inclusions’ such as wine appreciation classes, beachfront yoga, a pool butler serving sorbet by the pool, a master reef guide talk, and evening canapés and punch with the general manager.”

Visit reefhouse.com.au for more information.

The Reef House director Malcolm Bean said the TripAdvisor awards marked a stellar 12 months for the adults-only property after winning the best five star luxury accommodation at the Australian Tourism Awards and the Queensland Tourism Awards.

the

A couple enjoy

pool at award-winning The Reef House Adults Retreat at Palm Cove. Picture: The Reef House Adults Retreat

TimeOut

Three days of fun and entertainment mark 30th anniversary of iconic event

Carnivale to rock Port town

l PORT DOUGLAS

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

THE best tropical carnival of the Far North is celebrating 30 years, with everything from fine dining, live performances, and the renowned Wonderland Spiegeltent, the 2024 Port Douglas Carnivale is set to be one for the books.

This year’s carnivale is showcasing the best of Port Douglas and the Daintree with 21 events packed into three days of delicious food, the best live entertainment, and family-friendly fun from May 24-26.

In 2024, the carnivale will, not only be attracting thousands of locals and visitors from across Australia to celebrate everything Port Douglas, but it’ll also mark the 30th anniversary of the event.

For this year’s program the carnivale will bring

Art society show ends Mother’s Day

l EDGE HILL

FOR the perfect outing and gift don’t miss the annual Cairns Art Society exhibition at Tanks Art Centre ending this Sunday –Mother’s Day.

This year the theme of the Artists of the North exhibition is My North Queensland – Then and Now and features 194 local artworks.

Cairns Art Society secretary and local artist Joanne Bingham

said it was the 18th Artists of the North which was an opportunity for artists of the north and the Far North to be able to exhibit and sell their work.

Ms Bingham said the quality of the work kept improving.

“This is our best exhibition yet,” she said.

To round off your Tank Four Gallery visit just a few steps will take you to the Botanic Gardens Visitor Information Centre which includes a gift shop and next

door again is the popular Tank 64 café. There are two other options to enjoy and buy local CAS artwork in Cairns, including the CAS Gallery at DFO on Mulgrave Rd which features quality original art by many local artists, from paintings to sculpture and glassware, all for sale. Many of these artists also have prints and cards for sale.

Also on show is the monthly feature artist exhibition, featuring a body of work by a gallery

an

with a gallery, artists’ studio and teaching spaces.

Run by around 16 CAS members at any time, Artists@work studio and gallery on Lake St operates seven days a week, where artists work, exhibit a wide variety of paintings, prints and cards, show visitors around the gallery, teach, and do works on commission. Visit www.cairnsartsociety.com

back some of its most iconic events like The Wonderland Spiegeltent, Symphony Under the Stars by Queensland Symphony Orchestra, Tin Shed Family Beach Day, Street Parade, the Longest Lunch, art and photography exhibitions, Port Douglas Music Trails – plus some new additions like Savour TNQ and Paradise Picnic.

One of the latest events at the carnivale, Savour TNQ will take foodies on a gastronomic journey along Port Douglas’ waterfront at Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina on Saturday, May 25-26.

From locally-inspired native-infused street food to tropical cocktails, this twoday food festival promises a lively atmosphere with food stalls, bars, live music and family-friendly activities.

Concluding the carnivale weekend, Paradise Picnic on Sunday, May 26, offers an afternoon of entertainment with

performances by Australia’s leading female country singer, Amber Lawrence, along with a talented line-up of local acts. Both new events are free to attend.

The Wonderland Spiegeltent will also bring back its popular cabaret show with this year’s ‘Popcorn Underground’, an incredible magic show and a tribute show to 80s bands.

Douglas Shire Mayor Lisa Scomazzon said she looked forward to welcoming both new and returning visitors to Port Douglas for carnivale’s 30-year celebrations. She highlighted the strength and enduring appeal of the long-standing event, with an action-packed program that promises something for everyone. “For three decades, carnivale has united our community in a celebration of culture, creativity and camaraderie,” Cr Scomazzon said. Visit www.carnivale.com.au

member. The Cairns CBD also features

artists’ collaborative

Port Douglas Carnivale’s colourful street parade on Friday, May 24 from 6.30pm includes fireworks at 8pm.

Picture: Supplied

Cairns Arts Society secretary Joanne Bingham (left) and president Lorna Epps at the society’s latest exhibition.

Picture: Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

No lonely Sunday for ‘Goodnight Aurora’ entertainer

l MOOROOBOOL

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

IN an unexpected turn of events, a new indie pop band has formed in Cairns and released their first new single ‘Goodnight Aurora’, which already counts with 13,000 streams on Spotify.

Initially thought as the soundtrack for Cairns FM 89.1 radio announcer Joel Devereux’s short film project ‘Infinity’, the single ‘Goodnight Aurora’ – that also marked the debut of local Cairns High singer Grace Jones – quickly became so popular that inspired its founder to form a real band – The Lonely Sunday.

Currently The Lonely Sunday remains with two members –soulful vocalist Grace Jones and Mr Devereux as producer – who are hoping to continue to launch music this year and, hopefully, pick up some new band members along the

Youngsters

way. “It’s quite unusual, it wasn’t going to be a band, I got an RADF grant for a short film last year and I decided I wanted to do a song for it in homage to the 90s when they used to do songs for movies,” Mr Devereux said.

“I decided to create The Lonely Sunday as way to do that, while supporting an artist to be a part of the song. We recorded a song and it ended up on all these playlists. In total it’s up to 30,000 streams which is incredible," he said.

“So I’ve decided that I will put the band together, we’ll have Grace Jones and we’ll write a few more songs.”

‘Goodnight Aurora’ is a throwback to the best of 90s indie pop, reminiscent of Mazzy Star and The Sundays. It brings a sense of nostalgia through themes of loss, love and the beauty of fleeting moments with the soulful vocals of up-and-coming singer Grace Jones

adding another enchanting layer to the single.

"Collaborating on 'Goodnight Aurora' and seeing it become the heart of 'Infinitely' has been an incredible journey. When I wrote the film, I didn’t expect to get such a response to the song,” Mr Devereux said.

“Infinity’s premise is about relationships – do you break up amicably or do you split entirely?

– so ‘Goodnight Aurora’ deals with similar topics and it was written for the movie," he said. “I was inspired by the 90s songs written specifically for movies like Seal’s ‘Kiss from a Rose, or Celine Dion’s ‘My heart will go on’ and that’s the style of writing that I wanted to go for.”

Mr Devereux said an official music video for ‘Goodnight Aurora’ would be released at the end of May.

You can listen to ‘Goodnight Aurora’ on all streaming platforms

‘Shark attack’ at arts centre

l

EDGE HILL

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

ERTH’S Shark Dive immersive and interactive experience at the Cairns Children’s Festival will get kiddies to the depths of the ocean to meet nature’s greatest predator – the great white shark.

Next weekend – on May 18 and 19 – at the Tanks Arts Centre, Cairns’ children will live an experience like no other with Erth’s Shark Dive, the first shark dive where you don’t need diving experience and you won’t get wet.

Imagined and created by NSW’s company Erth Visual and Physical, Erth’s Shark Dive will keep families at the edge of their seat with a very realistic, interactive and theatrical experience that will get children learning more about the one of the ocean’s most misunderstood predators, the great white shark.

Shark Dive artistic director and creator Scott Wright said it was a very unique and realistic experience.

“Shark Dive is an experience where we send our audience into a decompression chamber where they are inducted and from there they go into a shark tank in a locked shark cage,” he said.

“For the time that they’re there, they’re surrounded by a great white shark that swims around the cage.

During that experience they will wear headphones which will give them a choice on what kind of soundtrack to listen to –either play it safe or take a risk.”

Mr Wright said that having been participants of previous Cairns Children’s Festival, they wanted to bring something new and fresh.

“Sharks are amazing, and beautiful, and I feel that they’ve suffered a lot from films like Jaws and me-

dia where sharks are made out to be the bad guys, so I wanted to make a show where people would get to experience something that they wouldn’t otherwise,” he said.

“Coming face to face with one of the largest predator in the ocean is thrilling but also beautiful.

“There’s a lot to be said about how we connect to the natural world and this experience will allow you to marvel at them and appreciate their role in the ecosystem.

“Cairns loves us, we’ve been at the Children’s Festival with our dinosaur show before and now we want to bring something closer to our time.

“Children in FNQ – more than any part of Australia – are very aware of our sharks, so we want them to reflect on how they live in this environment.”

To book the Shark Dive Experience, visit www.ticketlink.com.au

Picture: Solomon Thomas

Children will get up close and personal with the great white shark at Erth’s Shark Dive during the Cairns Children’s Festival.

The Lonely Sunday’s vocalist Grace Jones. Picture: Supplied

Setting bar’s stage on fire

High priestess of soul to jazz up casino

l CAIRNS CBD

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

THE high priestess of Melbourne soul is coming to Cairns for four unforgettable shows at The Reef Hotel Casino, accompanied by her piano and her band from May 15-18.

The ARIA nominated vocalist is bringing four shows for the ages: two intimate shows on May 15 and 16 with just piano and her top-tier vocals, and another two for dance lovers with a full band on May 17 and 18 for a total display of her amazing soulful style.

Known for both her solo career and as the leading woman of the band The Bamboos, Ms Auldist has become one of Australia’s most versatile and respected performers and, after years without visiting Cairns, she said she was excited to

bring a big-time performance to BAR36.

“It’s been a long time since we’ve been in Cairns. The last time was actually with The Bamboos, also at The Reef Hotel Casino and we can’t wait,” she said.

“Our wonderful keyboardist Mike Pensini is originally from Cairns, so it’s exciting for him to be able to return to his hometown.

“Two of our shows will be just the piano and me. I’ll be singing and Mike will be playing for three 45-minute sets, all of my favourite jazz songs and some soul songs.

“Then the band turns up and we get down for some fun on the remaining two dates. It’s all original electronic dance music, with an electric, keyboard bass.”

Ms Auldist will be setting the stage on fire with the help of an extremely talented four-piece

band with renowned Australian musicians – Mike Pensini on keys and synths, Gillan Gregory on guitar, Warren Hunter on bass and The Bamboos bandmate Graeme Pogson, certain to bring the sound of the 80s to life.

“I’m really excited for people to hear our original music and for Mike to be back in his town to show us around. It’s always nice having a local with you,” she said.

“We’ll be playing a remix of one of my songs called ‘Is it fun?’, also ‘Everythink’ from my album – This is what happiness looks like – and more.

“Come and see music that has been getting around the world. We’re doing a lot of amazing music that we haven’t been able to share with Cairns for a long time and it’d be nice for you to come and party with us.”

For more information visit the BAR36 Facebook page

Kylie Auldist is coming to Cairns for four unforgettable shows at The Reef Hotel Casino. Picture: Supplied

WHAT’S

MUSICAL THEATRE @ ALL SAINTS THEATRE

l FRI MAY 10TH, 7:00PM

Going for a Song is a new musical comedy for, and about, 21st century kids and what matters to them. The catchy, original songs will dance in your ears long after you leave the theatre and the themes of friendship, teamwork, and the definition of success will resonate with young and old. Additional performances: Sat May 11th matinee 1:00pm, evening 7:00pm Where: St Andrew’s Catholic College, Intake Rd, Redlynch Tickets: Adults – $15, Child (under 12) – $10, Concessions – $10

Book your tickets at https://www.trybooking.com/CRCON

THE GREAT WHEELBARROW RACE

l FRI MAY 10TH - SUN MAY 12TH, ALL DAY

In May of each year, Mareeba Shire Council plays host to ‘The Great Wheelbarrow Race’. This is an event where competitors push an empty wheelbarrow along the ‘Wheelbarrow Way’ between Mareeba and Chillagoe in three stages while fundraising for charities and local clubs. Friday, May 10th – Mareeba to Dimbulah, with an overnight stay Saturday, May 11th – Dimbulah to Almaden with a lunch stop in Petford Sunday, May 12th – Almaden to Chillagoe with race presentations

For more information please visit www.greatwheelbarrowrace.com.au

ADULTS ONLY CABARET@ BROTHERS CAIRNS

l FRI MAY 10TH, 7:00PM

Step right up to the most audacious and tantalising extravaganza in town! Welcome to “The Paramour,” a mesmerising comedy and adults-only cabaret. Brace yourself for an evening of laughter and shock as Sylvester Valentine challenges societal norms and embraces the outrageous. This is not a show for the faint of heart or the easily offended, but it’s a night you won’t soon forget. Dare to enter our world, and let your inhibitions run wild!

Tickets from $69

Book tickets at : https://paramourcabaret.com/cabaret-tickets/

APPLIQUE WORKSHOP @ NORTHSITE ART STUDIO

l SAT MAY 11TH, 9:00AM

Up-cycled graphic style textile art – applique, with a conceptual theme –The power of Personal Mantras.

Come and explore the ancient form of textile artwork with a modern twist. Using up-cycled materials to create an image celebrating the female form whilst also delving into the power of personal mantra’s. No experience is necessary.

Age: This is an 18+ workshop

Cost: $50 – $150

Reserve your spot through Humanitix.

WALK/RUN @ COCONUT GROVE, CAIRNS ESP

l SUN MAY 12TH, 7:00AM

Held on Mother’s Day, the Cairns Mother’s Day Classic provides the community a chance to raise awareness, vital funds for research, and honour those touched by breast and ovarian cancers.

We are excited to bring this event back to Cairns after a short hiatus and would love for you to put on your walking/running shoes and join us to raise funds and awareness for these two great causes.

For more information and to register visit Mother’s Day Classic. https://www.mothersdayclassic.com.au/event/mothers-day-classic-cairns

MEET & GREET @ DUNWOODY’S CAIRNS

l MON MAY 13TH, 6:00PM

Come along and join us for free nibbles and find out more about the Rotaract Club starting in Cairns.

The Rotaract Club is aimed at young adults, aged 17 to 40 years. Volunteering their time towards charitable foundations, hosting network events, hosting networking events, and creating friends through social activities.

RSVP free through trybooking - https://www.trybooking.com/CQAGO

GIG

Guide

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

FRIDAY

Dunwoodys Eddie Skiba, 4:00pm

L’Unico Sax Man, 4:30pm

The Salt House Time Smith, 5:00pm Cairns Cruising Yacht Squadron Janna Mercedes, 5:00pm

Ten 06 David & Victoria, 5:30pm

Ellis Beach Bar & Grill Lady Valiant Duo, 6:00pm

The Benson Hotel Christina Roberts, 6:00pm Cazaly’s Cairns Russell Harris, 6:30pm

Atherton International Club Infinity Duo, 7:00pm

Brothers Cairns Big Jim at Fratelli’s, 7:00pm

Tanks Arts Centre Jon Cleary & the Absolute Monster Gentlemen, 7:30pm

Elixir Music House No More No Less, 8:30pm

Bar36 The Reef Hotel Casino DeLuxe, 9:00pm

SATURDAY

Ellis Beach Bar & Grill Jeremiah Johnson, 2:00pm Strait on the Beach No More No Less, 3:00pm

Yorkeys Knob Boating Club Rock’n Sweet, 3:00pm

Yorkeys Knob Boating Club Kim Settle, 3:30pm

Post Office Hotel Chillagoe Two Dogs, 5:00pm

The Salt House Stan Stone, 5:00pm Munro Martin Parklands Missy Higgins, 6:30pm Cazaly’s Cairns Big Jim, 6:30pm

Yorkeys Knob Boating Club Latin Dance Night, 6:30pm

Brothers Cairns Sole2Soul, 7:00pm

Elixir Music House Heffa Lump, General Sherman & WazzMaloid, 7:00pm Rattle ‘n’ Hum Palm Cove Janna Mercedes, 8:00pm

The Red Beret Hotel The Wait, 8:00pm Bar36 The Reef Hotel Casino DeLuxe, 9:00pm

SUNDAY

Barron Falls Hotel Blue Reed, 12:00pm

Ellis Beach Bar & Grill Mattyboi, 1:00pm

The Red Beret Hotel Carinda Christie, 1:00pm Dunwoodys Katie Richards, 2:00pm

O’Donnell’s Café Bar Sax Man, 2:00pm Hilton Hotel Victoria Boxall, 2:30pm Yorkeys Knob Boating Club Infinity Duo, 3:00pm Trinity Beach Tavern Ivy Amara, 3:00pm Crown Hotel Keith Eales, 3:00pm

The Salt House Simmo, 5:00pm Bar36 The Reef Hotel Casino Hot Ice, 7:30pm

Cazaly’s Cairns Fingerprint, 9:00pm

Are you a venue or an artist that wants to be listed in the Gig Guide? Complete the form on www.cairnslocalnews.com.au/gig-guide to submit your gig each week to be listed in Friday’s paper.

Take a minute... Puzzles for you

Solutions

CROSSWORD

Restrictions may be difficult for you to live with, but try to do things by the book. You will be looking for creative ways to make a little extra cash. It might be best to spend time fixing up your premises and making changes that will be appreciated. Health problems may prevail if you haven’t been getting enough rest.

Your determination and sheer desire to do your own thing will be successful. You might have a problem hanging on to your money this week. You will be inclined to make unwise investment choices. Offer good conversation and a nice soothing lunch.

Your concern with older family members and those less fortunate than yourself will only add to your attractiveness. Your personal partner may be less than willing to accommodate you this week. A need to be in love may fool you. Changes to your self image will be to your benefit but don’t over pay.

Do a little shopping. You’re likely to find a real bargain. Use your creative flair. There’s lots to be done and if you meet your deadline you’ll be in your boss’s good books. Tell them to get out of the mess they are in and then you’ll consider getting together with them.

Take action. Social functions will bring you in touch with new lovers. Major job changes or opportunities to get ahead professionally are apparent. You are best to be discreet.

Don’t use the interstate as a racetrack. Use your better judgment before you sign up for a costly venture. Your high energy will enable you to enlist the help of those in a position to back you. This will not be the time to give too much to your children.

You may be ill-treated if you have to deal with institutional environments. You have done all you can to sort things out a personal level. Avoid getting involved with married individuals. Don’t turn down offers that include sports activities or children.

You will find that valuable knowledge can be gained if you are willing to listen. You need some rest. You will have to face each issue separately and in person. You need to spend less time daydreaming and more time accomplishing.

based on false information. You can make money through real estate or by using your head when it comes to personal investments.

Listen and formulate your course of action. You will be indecisive. Hidden assets can be doubled if you play your cards correctly. Changes in your residence may be financially favorable. Don’t be afraid to make additions to your house.

sers to hold them up (6)

26. to change the size of (something) to make it more suitable (8)

27. wind instruments consisting of cane pipes of different lengths tied in a row or in a bundle (8)

28. is a hearty soup, usually coloured red from beetroot (6)

DOWN

1. barons or nobles collectively (8)

2. the colourless fluid part of blood, lymph, or milk, in which corpuscles or fat globules are suspended (6)

3. an expedition to observe or hunt animals in their natural habitat, especially in Africa (6)

ACROSS

You may find that your plans will cost a little more than you had expected. Think twice before you volunteer information. Hard work will not go unnoticed. Heart to heart talks will clear up vague issues.

8. a brightly coloured garden flower with long, thin petals in a shape like a ball (6)

9. to secrete saliva, especially in anticipation of food (8)

10. the person who steers a ship’s boat, racing boat, or other boat (8)

11. a brass instrument resembling a trumpet but shorter and wider (6)

12. the belief that all events are predetermined and therefore inevitable (8)

13. to bury something or someone (6)

14. a set of pages of information on the internet about a particular subject (7)

17. the action of receiving something or the fact of its being received (7)

20. long, narrow pieces of pale yellow dried leaf (6)

22. towards the bottom of a slope (8)

25. a pair of straps attached to a pair of trou-

4. a long, high sea wave caused by an earthquake or other disturbance (7)

5. a transparent coating of ice, especially on a road surface (5,3)

6. coverings worn over your ordinary shoes (8)

7. a small, narrow river (6)

15. an electronic copy (or e-copy) of some type of data (4,4)

16. the section of a building that runs perpendicular to its main part, forming a kind of cross shape (8)

18. a high, close-fitting, turned-over collar on a sweater (4-4)

19. the particulars of the place where someone lives or an organization is situated (7)

21. the passage by which air reaches a person’s lungs (6)

23. a strong-tasting green paste used in Japanese cooking (6)

24. a potential source of harm (6)

Motoring

Female drivers being quizzed

Survey aims to discover driving habits and traits of women across the world

said. “It is important to really know what women go through when they drive.

WOMEN’S Worldwide Car

panel has launched a survey on how women feel behind the wheel.

The research is led by Sabina Kvášová, a WWCOTY juror in the Czech Republic, and editorin-chief of the magazine Zena v aute.cz.

Questions include:

• What is typical behaviour of women drivers on road?

• Do they feel safe?

• Does their behaviour vary from country to country?

An online questionnaire has been created.

WWCOTY executive president Marta Garcia said the aim of the survey ‘How women drivers feel behind the wheel’ was to analyse the driving behaviour of women drivers and their perspective in different countries.

“The survey is focused on the perception of aggressive behaviour on the roads,” she

“This research will allow us to get a closer look at situations that sometimes go unnoticed.

“Through a questionnaire we want to analyse how women drivers feel, what they fear, how they behave behind the wheel, and on roads.

“Thanks to the connection to the Women’s Worldwide Car of the Year association, we also want to compare the results of surveys in foreign countries.”

The final result will be published worldwide on International Women Drivers’ Day #IWDD on June 24.

Women’s Worldwide Car of the Year is the only car awards group in the world comprised exclusively of women motoring journalists.

It was created by New Zealand motoring journalist Sandy Myhre in 2009. She is honorary president while Ms García is executive president. Fill out the questionnaire at: https://bit.ly/3WqoKoR

Motoring journalist Sabina Kvášová is leading research into how women feel behind the wheel. Picture: WWCOTY

German car maker unveils sporty X2 five-door, including M and electric versions

New BMW SUV snapped up

l NEW MODEL

| Nick Dalton

THE second-generation BMW X2 ‘sports activity coupé’ (SAC) has landed in Australia and the first stock has arrived and been delivered at Westco BMW.

The line-up includes the first electric X2 – the iX2 xDrive30 – as well as the high performance X2 M35i xDrive.

Sales manager Grant Woolcock said he had sold a X2 xDrive20i and two X2 M35is plus two electric iX2s had just arrived.

“They are selling like hot cakes. I advise people who are interested to come in and place your orders now. It will take about three months for delivery,” he said.

Westco BMW has also handed over the first top-of-the-range SUV – the XM – a $320,000 petrol-electric hybrid to its new owner.

BMW Australia says it now offers the widest selection of fully electric vehicles of any manufacturer represented in the country.

BMW will also launch the iX2 eDrive20 later this year, further widening its selection of fully electric vehicles to customers.

The launch portfolio begins with the X2 xDrive20i, which features a four-cylinder petrol engine that delivers new levels of response and efficiency.

At the top of the line-up is the X2

M35i xDrive, powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine that produces 233kw of power and helps to propel the new model to 100km/h from rest in just 5.4 seconds.

The new X2 has grown by 194mm in length over its predecessor to 4554mm, by 21mm in width to 1845mm and by 64mm in height to 1590mm.

Its increased wheelbase and wider tracks also benefit space in both the five seats and the boot.

Standard equipment includes 19in alloy wheels, all-wheel-drive, two-zone auto climate control, acoustic glazing, adaptive LED headlights and M Suspension, automatic tailgate, curved widescreen display, comfort access and digital key, DAB digital radio, steering and lane control system, active cruise control, stop and go, and blind spot monitor, front electric and heated seats, head up display, M Sport package and leather steering wheel, parking assist, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and wireless phone charging.

The iX2 xDrive30 generates 230kW and 494kW with driving range capability of up to 395km and 0-100km/h in 5.6s.

The150kW/300NM X2 xDrive20i turbo petrol’s 0-100km/h time is 7.4s.

Drive away prices are $81,954 for the X2 xDrive20i, $90,664 for the iX2 xDrive30 and about $97,000 for the X2 M35i

The new X2 SUV coupe also includes the high performance X2 M35i with 233kW of power and a 0-100kmh time of 5.4 seconds.

Real Estate

Fewer single buyers about

More women are purchasing property

alone than men, but overall it’s falling

l SPECIAL REPORT

THE number of single people buying homes is falling but becoming more evenly matched by gender.

Ray White Group chief economist Nerida Conisbee said the increasing cost of housing had meant that the proportion of single people buying homes was falling.

“In 2014, an estimated 26.2 per cent of purchasers were single. By 2022, that had fallen to 24.5 per cent,” she said.

“An interesting dynamic, however, is also occurring by gender.

“A drop in single male purchasers is driving the decline whereas the number of single female buyers as a proportion of total buyers remains steady.

“By volume, the number of purchases by single women has risen by over 11 per cent since 2014.

“The number of single female buyers was calculated

using Valuer General data on all sales from 2014 and cross referencing first names using Genderize, an AI powered API that determines the likely gender of a name.

“The technique allowed us to analyse an average of over five million transactions from 2014 to 2022.

“The analysis isn’t perfect. In 2023, full names were removed from all transactions and prior to that, first names were not included in the ACT, South Australia and Tasmania.

“Nevertheless, it does provide the largest sample of data available in determining trends in single female purchasers of Australian property.

“Since 2014, there has been a clear increase in the number of single female buyers. In that year, there were 64,680 purchases made by single women. That had increased to 71,900 women by 2022.

“The only category that increased more quickly

was a rise in the number of companies/trusts purchasing property, perhaps driven by a rise in people using selfmanaged superannuation to buy property, as well as growing interest by large corporations in owning investment properties.

“It is likely that rising education about the importance of home ownership in building wealth, as well as government schemes to assist low to middle income earners into the market have been a driver.

“When looking more specifically at a suburb level, large scale development of more affordable apartments in central areas also appears to play a role.

“Overwhelmingly, the largest number of purchases are of units in areas where very large numbers of units are available.”

The top locations for house purchases are also predominantly affordable fringe development areas.

More

Northern Beaches Lifestyle at its Best

Deep Creek Estate at Clifton Beach by Kenfrost Homes.

Boasting a ordable luxury homes with more items on your tropical dream home wish-list than you ever thought possible, this estate is a must see. Perfect for a lock & leave home base in Cairns or holiday rental, each home comes packed with inclusions and security features including 4 camera security system with free phone app monitoring and wide security front screen also great for letting the breezes flow throughout.

The well appointed kitchens will not disappoint with stone bench tops, 2-pak cabinetry, quality appliances, fixtures and fittings and some designs with butler’s pantry or multi purpose scullery.

Come and view the estate, chat to the team and secure you piece of paradise today! Contact 4042 6000.

Mount Peter Set to Soar in 2024

Set in picturesque location on the southside of the Cairns CBD Mount Peter Residential Estate is your dream home wish-list fulfilled in our most a ordable large family homes starting from $640,000 (While stocks last). Choose from a range of open plan 3 or 4 bedroom designs creating a classic indoor outdoor tropical lifestyle. Enjoy close proximity to quality schools, shops, recreational facilities and only 19km to the city, Mount Peter is the jewel in the southern corridor and shining light for what estates should be in the modern age with generous parkland, footpaths, basketball half court and so much more.

Stage 8 at Mount Peter Residential Estate o ers a range of large family homes that present an attractive rental opportunity also. Residents love the quiet country living with abundand birdlife and civic mountain views all round. It’s a safe community minded estate to raise the kids, or a place for the grandkids to visit. For added security, every home now comes with a 4 camera security system pre installed with free phone app monitoring plus a security front door screen.

to this estate is located o Cottesloe Drive, Kewarra Beach

Located in the prestigious Clifton Beach postcode only minutes walk to the beach and 4km from Palm Cove is our newest development

Pictured: Lot 840 Speewah Bend - Stage home

sales team at the Mount Peter Information Centre

Cairns Local

AL-ANON FAMILY GROUPS

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

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

ADVERTISE today!

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

Port Douglas, Mossman, Kuranda, Cairns, Edmonton, Gordonvale, Babinda, Innisfail, Tully, Cardwell and many more inbetween!

Grab your FREE copy weekly!

Place a fundraising box in your staff room, or front counter, funds raised will go to Rotary

Friday May 10th

Lady 76 years seeks health-conscious friend.

Local News

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

Write to: PO Box 290, Earlville, 4870

Editor

DO you want to lead a multi-award winning, independently owned regional newspaper?

We are seeking an Editor for The Express newspaper in Far North Queensland, which services a large distribution area including the Atherton Tablelands, Mareeba Shire and beyond.

The Express has a distribution of 15,000 newspapers a week, as well as a strong digital presence, with a Facebook following of more than 25,000.

If you would prefer us not to do so, please write to us at: Cairns Local News, Suite F03, The Conservatory, 12-14 Lake St, Cairns, Qld 4870

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

Cairns Local News delivers to: Wish your loved one a Happy Birthday in Local News Cairns

Prices start from $25 Ph: 4031 7678 | E: admin@cairnslocalnews.com.au

Fit, attractive, healthy lady, looking for a gentleman 66-68, very healthy and fit, and willing to travel around the world for companionship. Needs to be as financially secure as I am.

calls only 0401

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

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

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

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

The new Editor will be expected to increase our online presence, with more news delivered across several digital platforms.

The business has been in operation for 13 years and will continue to be a strong voice in our region well into the future.

You will be working with a dedicated team who are all committed to bringing local, independent news to our communities.

Your responsibilities would include but not be limited to:

• Writing stories that inform and engage readers across a variety of subjects

• Capturing impactful photographs to complement written content

• Editing and proof-reading articles for accuracy and adherence to editorial standards

• Working cohesively with a small team including an artwork and layout professional, advertising sales team, digital content creator, and other journalists

• Along with a strong work ethic, you’ll have an understanding of the importance of promoting a sense of community through local news media.

You’ll have:

• Competent journalistic writing skills

• Prior experience, ideally in a local rural community newspaper or similar environment

• Formal qualification in journalism or communications (preferred)

Classified deadlines: 4pm Wednesday every week of publication

696 BUYING or selling? Do it with Cairns Local News. Email admin@cairnslocalnews.com.au or call Lisa on 07 4031 7678.

• Full Australian working rights or permanent residency

• Aptitude with photography

• Editing skills

• Current driver’s licence

• Understanding of journalistic ethics and standards, and

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with colleagues and interview subjects.

An attractive renumeration package applies.

Send your cover letter and resume to: carl@theexpressnewspaper.com.au Applications close May 10, 2024.

Saturday May 11th

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

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

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

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

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

Mareeba: Mareeba Racecourse, 07:30-12:30

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 May 12th

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: 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 Markets: Grafton St, Cairns, 05:00-18:00

Northern smash Ipswich Jets 56-12 in best match of season to become

Pride at top of league ladder

l RUGBY LEAGUE

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

IN a triumphant turn of events, the Northern Pride has launched itself to the top of the ladder after the team’s best match of the season defeating the Ipswich Jets 56-12 last Sunday.

The Northern Pride has established that they’re the team to beat this season, as they continue to make up for two losses in rounds 4 and 5 with a streak of victories that has now placed them at the top of the competition, and their best performance of the competition winning 56-12 against the Jets on their home ground.

The next step for the Pride is a battle against the PNG Hunters in Port Moresby on Saturday from 3pm.

Coach Eric Smith praised the resilience of the defence against the Jets in the first 20 minutes of the match.

“Our victory against the Ipswich Jets consisted of some great individual and team efforts and, as always, a lot of opportunity for improvement,” he said.

“Although we conceded a try early, we defended off a couple of others before we turned our defensive effort into points of our own through Jensen Taumoepeau.

“However, there were also areas where we can improve, and we’ll be focusing on addressing these in the coming week.”

The next match is one that will test the Pride’s continuity and stability as they strive to prove that they can keep their level up in Papua New Guinea against the Hunters.

The team will also play with a full squad to select from this week as there are no injury concerns. Pride chief executive Garreth Smith said the round 8 match presented an opportunity to keep the spirits up.

Hunters in Papua New Guinea,” he said.

“This week round 9, we have an exciting opportunity to test our mettle against the PNG

Sport Results

WEST CAIRNS MEN’S

“This away game presents a unique challenge, but it’s one that our team is fully prepared to tackle head-on,” he said.

“As always PNG will be very physical and will be a formida-

ris Pedrola. R/U; Mick Buckler, Bevan Wright, Joe Jackson.

MARLIN COAST BOWLS

ble opponent on their home soil.

“PNG are coming off a very convincing win themselves defeating the Blackhawks 52-16 in Townsville last weekend.

“Looking at our previous form against PNG we came away victors on both occasions

last year 2023 both at home and away in PNG.

“As we prepare for this crucial match, keep an eye on some standout players who are sure to make a significant impact on the field like Lachlan West, Evan Child, and Dane Aukafolau.”

GORDONVALE BOWLS

Thursday, May 2nd. Winners; Corrie Jarrad, Rob Moody, Mor-

Tuesday, April 30th. Winners; S. Wilson, A. Pahara, S. Ford. R/U; P. Pue, D. Lazzeus, Johno. Thursday, May 2nd. Thirsty Thursday. Best players; Maurie Raisn, Edna, Freddie. Friday, May 3rd. Friday night scroungers. Winner; Irene Crampton. R/U; Andrew Mattson. Sunday, May 5th. Winners; Joe Jackson, Ted Hamilton, Phil Buntain. R/U; Rob, Mal, Wayne. Jackpot not won.

Tuesday, April 30th. Tuesday morning bowls. Winners; Alan, Warren, Christine. R/U; Krn, Judy, June. Tuesday afternoon Men’s triples. Winners; D Smith, D Lawton, B O’Connor. R/U; D White, A Tymms, J Gillman. Tuesday night bowls. Winners; Tommo, Deb, Mick,

Bob H, Ilona, David. Wednesday, May 1st. Wednesday mixed bowls. Winners; C Scott, V Rheuben, Dot. R/U; Bob, Laurie, Colleen. Thursday, May 2nd. Thursday Mixed triples. Winners; G Reynolds, SJ Pitt, Robbo. R/U; J Smith, D Smith, D White. Saturday, May 4th. Saturday Morning Scroungers. Winner; S.J. Pitt. R/U; B. O’Connor. Club Championships. Ladies Singles A-Grade.

V. Still def. C. Thompson 2521. A Lim def. T McAlary 2516. J Baumann def. J. Smith 253. J Walford, R Gillman def. R Lloyd, N Robson 25-13.

BROTHERS EDMONTON Thursday, May 2nd. Social bowls. Winners; N Kina, K Paki. R/U; M Girardi, M Daffy, K O’Halloran, D Begg. Championship Pairs. K. Paki, N. Kina def. L. Ceely, C. Populin. Men’s social bowls. Winners: Q Bates, J Blain, B Power. Game 1. Winners; D Cairns, S Paris, M Paris. Game 2. Winner; R Jorgensen, G Frizzo, M O’Halloran. Friday, May 3rd. Championship Pairs. G Cann, D Daffy def. D Stewart, J Blain. Q Bates, B Power def. J Mason, M Capper. Saturday, May 4th. Saturday social bowls. Winners; M O’Halloran, C McDonald, A Crittenden. R/U; S Rowe, S Bates, B Hill.

Northern Pride’s Kyle Schneider and Ash Little in action on the field. Below: Nat McGavin and Will Partridge celebrate the win. Pictures: Supplied

Women’s Tigers should win

North Cairns vs Centrals Bulldogs, Lions vs South Cutters, PD Crocs vs Saints

l AFL

| John Gillett

AFL Cairns women’s round 5 preview

Cairns City Lions vs South Cairns Cutters at ITEC

Group Oval, May 11 at 11am

Cairns City Lions look to continue their impressive unbeaten start to season 2024 as they entertain South Cairns.

Beaten comprehensively by Cutters in the 3 vs 4 finals match-up last finals campaign, Lions will be out for revenge, and to further their credentials as early front runners.

A win here will set a potential heavyweight bout against Norths to kick off Indigenous round in two weeks.

Before then, Lions star players will know selection to the all-star game is on the cards.

Souths have not yet captured the form that led them to one win from the grand final last year.

Only having won once in season 2024 is an unlucky return for a team that has been competitive in each fixture.

They beat Port Douglas last week to hopefully kickstart their season, but will know that they will be up against it, with a redhot Lions team ready to atone for last year.

Prediction: Lions to keep rolling on. Lions by 15.

Centrals TB Bulldogs vs North Cairns Tigers at Crath-

ern Park, May 11 at 11am

Centrals start round 5 in fourth and will know this is an early opportunity to consolidate their position in the top four.

They had a tough start to the season, losing the opening two games, but have squared the ledger since.

Part of that run has been the goal kicking exploits of Rhiannon Fecht and Tylah Vis, while star player Grace Frost could lay claim to the best player of the comp so far.

Norths though loom as the irresistible, scintillating, immovable object in Centrals’ way.

A percentage of 707 per cent has underlined their dominant, unbeaten start to the season, and will be raring to go after having the bye last week.

Leading goal kicker of the comp, and absolute superstar Leashay Warburton looks impossible to stop.

She kicked two goal of the year contenders, at any level, last time out against Cutters on ANZAC Day.

Prediction: Tigers look unbeatable early. Tigers by 35

Port Douglas Crocs vs Cairns Saints at Port Douglas Sporting Complex, May 11 at 4.45pm

The battle of the last two winless teams in season 2024, Port will hope the home ground advantage will give them the edge as they look to kickstart their season, particularly with playing at the more amenable time

for most of their diehard patrons.

Patrons and players alike will view this as their best opportunity yet to register their first win in the competition, and you only have to imagine how a club as

proud as Port Douglas will celebrate and recognise such a momentous occasion. Saints will spend most of the drive north visualising their upcoming performance, in between the breathtaking views.

Undoubtedly a new-look team this year, the winless start will have still been a surprise for last year’s runners-up. Cohesion and togetherness will continue to grow and they will be confident of getting on

the board in season 2024 and will hope their experience in the comp will get them over the edge.

Prediction: Port Douglas fairytale too hard to ignore. Port by 3.

Sarah Heard of the Cairns Saints fending off a pack of Bulldogs at Griffiths Park. Below: Grace Frost continues her cracking start to the season with Centrals Trinity Beach Bulldogs. Pictures: RAWI/AFL Cairns

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