Cairns Local News 13-Nov-20 by Cairns Local News

Friday,November September 2020 Friday 13, 18, 2020

Mates remember

Local navy veteran Toby Waite says he owes his life to his ‘four-legged guardian angel’, his assistance dog Freya. He’s leading a campaign to acquire and train more assistance dogs which he says are worth their weight in gold for defence force veterans and other people suffering from mental illness.

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CAIRNS 7 DAY WEATHER FORECAST AND TIDE TIMES SATURDAY

SUNDAY

MIN:22 MAX:33 CAIRNS TIDE TIMES LOW: 1.55 LOW: 14.19 HIGH: 8.27 HIGH: 20.20

MONDAY

MIN:22 MAX:33 CAIRNS TIDE TIMES LOW: 2.33 LOW: 15.05 HIGH: 9.11 HIGH: 20.59

TUESDAY

MIN:22 MAX:33 CAIRNS TIDE TIMES LOW: 3.13 LOW: 15.54 HIGH: 9.58 HIGH: 21.40

MIN:23 MAX:33 CAIRNS TIDE TIMES LOW: 3.54 LOW: 16.51 HIGH: 10.49 HIGH: 22.28

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

MIN:23 MAX:32 CAIRNS TIDE TIMES LOW: 4.40 LOW: 18.14 HIGH: 11.48 HIGH: 23.28

FRIDAY

MIN:23 MAX:33 CAIRNS TIDE TIMES LOW: 5.33 LOW: 20.46 HIGH: 13.04 HIGH: n/a

MIN:23 MAX:33 CAIRNS TIDE TIMES LOW: 0.59 LOW: 14.36 HIGH: 6.46 HIGH: 20.28

INNISFAIL 7 DAY WEATHER FORECAST AND TIDE TIMES MIN:20 MAX:32 INNISFAIL TIDE TIMES LOW: 2.42 LOW: 15.08 HIGH: 8.37 HIGH: 21.37

MIN:22 MAX:31

MIN:21 MAX:31 INNISFAIL TIDE TIMES LOW: 3.17 LOW: 15.58 HIGH: 9.21 HIGH: 21.17

INNISFAIL TIDE TIMES LOW: 3.56 LOW: 16.53 HIGH: 10.09 HIGH: 21.59

MIN:23 MAX:30 INNISFAIL TIDE TIMES LOW: 4.38 LOW: 17.58 HIGH: 11.01 HIGH: 20.46

MIN:23 MAX:30 INNISFAIL TIDE TIMES LOW: 5.25 LOW: 19.30 HIGH: 12.05 HIGH: 23.44

MIN:23 MAX:30

MIN:23 MAX:30 INNISFAIL TIDE TIMES LOW: 6.21 LOW: 21.53 HIGH: 13.31 HIGH: n/a

INNISFAIL TIDE TIMES LOW: 1.15 LOW: 15.04 HIGH: 7.35 HIGH: 23.15

PORT DOUGLAS 7 DAY WEATHER FORECAST AND TIDE TIMES MIN:22 MAX:31

MIN:23 MAX:30

MIN:23 MAX:29

MIN:23 MAX:28

MIN:22 MAX:30

MIN:22 MAX:32

PORT DOUGLAS TIDE TIMES LOW: 1.50 LOW: 14.15 HIGH: 8.13 HIGH: 20.10

PORT DOUGLAS TIDE TIMES LOW: 2.27 LOW: 15.02 HIGH: 8.57 HIGH: 20.48

PORT DOUGLAS TIDE TIMES LOW: 3.06 LOW: 15.52 HIGH: 9.43 HIGH: 21.29

PORT DOUGLAS TIDE TIMES LOW: 3.47 LOW: 16.52 HIGH: 10.35 HIGH: 22.16

PORT DOUGLAS TIDE TIMES LOW: 4.32 HIGH: 18.19 HIGH: 11.35 LOW: 23.15

PORT DOUGLAS TIDE TIMES LOW: 5.25 LOW: 21.16 HIGH: 12.59 HIGH: n/a

PORT DOUGLAS TIDE TIMES LOW: 0.52 LOW: 14.40 HIGH: 6.40 HIGH: 20.38

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Friday November 13, 2020

Cairns Local News

Diving with the Stars

Director Rhiannon Bannenberg (left) and producer Steve Jaggi (right) with actresses Sana’a Shaik, Mercy Cornwall, Miah Madden, Georgia-May Davis and Aubri Ibrag in Port Douglas.

TANYA MURPHY The idyllic charm of Port Douglas and the underwater beauty of the Great Barrier Reef will soon be gracing screens across the globe as the setting for a Netflix television series. Major publicity, employment and economic benefits are expected for Far North Queensland as more than 100 actors and crew spend the next three months filming teen mystery drama ‘Dive Club’ in and around Port Douglas. To be released in 2021, the 12-episode series about the adventures of a group of teenage girls who are skilled scuba divers will premiere to Australian audiences on Network 10, and then screen in more than 190 countries as a Netflix original. Filming started on Monday, November 2, and locations include Macrossan Street and

most of the historic buildings around Port Douglas such as the iconic Lakeside Retreat, as well as Mossman and some of the beaches between Port Douglas and Palm Cove. Underwater scenes will be shot at various sites on the outer Great Barrier Reef. A number of local dive operators have been engaged to help take cast and crew to the outer reef, and with more than 100 cast and crew from across Australia staying in local hotels and patronising local businesses, the project is a welcome economic boost during what has been a difficult year for the region. The cast have already spent a month learning advanced diving skills with local dive operators the Tech Dive Academy. Producer Steve Jaggi of The Steve Jaggi Company, who has already had success in the young adult genre with series Rip Tide (Amazon Prime),

Back Of The Net (Disney US, Foxtel AU) and Swimming For Gold (Universal), said it was a pleasure to work with the local community. “I think we’ve hired everyone in the region who works in film and television and we’re also providing traineeships to train new crew, through Screen Queensland,” he said. “Although the main actors come from down south, a lot of supporting roles have gone to people from the Cairns and Port Douglas region and we will continue to engage local extras as needed throughout the three and a half months of shooting.” Mr Jaggi, a self-confessed scuba addict, said everyone involved was “having the time of their lives” living and working in Port Douglas and diving the Great Barrier Reef while the film and television industries in London and Los Angeles were at a relative standstill

due to COVID-19. “Things are so difficult around the world with a global pandemic, we feel so lucky to be somewhere that’s so safe,” he said. “We’re incredibly grateful to the Queensland government and Screen Queensland for building this environment in our state where we can stay open for business and film. “We’re the envy of the world. We’ve had a lot of emails and phone calls from LA and London wondering how we’re managing it. “I think this series will be a big international success because it’s good, but also because there’s a big demand for content across the world right now because nobody else can make it.” Mr Jaggi said the show would be a first for the Australian television industry. “For a show made in Australia

and by Australians, to go out as an international production to 190 countries is just massive,” he said. “Australia makes really good kids’ content but this will be the first big teen production. “It’s like a cross between Riverdale and Pretty Little Liars with a little bit of Pirates of the Caribbean thrown in, and although it’s in the young adult genre, it’s something that people in their 20s and 30s will watch too. “Its such a big thing for everyone involved and a lot of stars have aligned to make this happen.” Member for Mulgrave Curtis Pitt said the production would inject nearly $8 million into the state economy and also create more than 110 jobs for local cast and crew.

Introducing the Dive Club

Dive Club stars Miah Madden (Australia Day, The Unlisted), Georgia-May Davis (Young Talent Time, Disney Backstage Pass), Sana’a Shaik (Reckoning, 2067), Mercy Cornwall (The Queen’s Gambit, The Heights) and newcomer Aubri Ibrag. On the surface, the group of 16-year-olds at fictional town Cape Mercy are regular teenagers navigating life, friendship and romance, but under the water, the skilled divers enter a whole new world of adventure. When one of the friends goes mysteriously missing during a cyclone, and suspicious holes appear in the official investigation, the girls are plunged into a desperate search that raises more questions the deeper they dive. Rounding out the cast is Australian model and digital creator Joshua Heuston making his screen debut, Alexander Grant (Radio Waves), and Joseph Spanti (Coffee Lover). Behind the camera is a strong collection of talent and experience, with Directors Rhiannon Bannenberg, Hayley MacFarlane and Christine Luby, and Showrunner and Series Creator Steve Jaggi. Dive Club has been supported by the Queensland Government through Screen Queensland and is operating under the Queensland Screen Sector COVID Safe Work Plan.

NEWS

Cairns Local News

Friday November 13, 2020

Lest we forget

TANYA MURPHY St. Andrew’s College students commemorated Remembrance Day this week by planting a field of approximately 2000 poppies they made from recycled plastic bottles. Defence School Mentor Jo Lawson said she came up with the idea for the project in 2018 when commemorating 100 years since the end of World War I. “We thought it would be a wonderful recycling project and an opportunity to create poppies we could use for many years to come,” she said. “Students and staff bought in bottles, then we washed them, cut them, painted and then

added the center and attached the stems. “It was a joint effort, all grades contributed to different parts of the project. “This year each student has had the opportunity to reflect on the importance of Remembrance Day, and ‘plant’ a poppy in The Field of Poppies while reflecting on the sacrifice many made so as we can enjoy the freedom we have today.” Ms Lawson mentors students of defence families that are serving both in Australia and abroad.

St. Andrew’s students and their Field of Poppies

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Friday November 13, 2020

Cairns Local News

Guardian angel saves Toby’s life Local navy veteran Toby Waite says he owes his life to his ‘four-legged guardian angel’, his assistance dog Freya. He’s leading a campaign to acquire and train more assistance dogs which he says are worth their weight in gold for defence force veterans and other people suffering from mental illness. “I did my back and shoulder in 2010 and have been living with chronic pain since then, and my mental health took a downward turn,” he said. “I suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, anxiety and depression. There were a few months when I wasn’t able to leave the house and it was Freya that helped me through it.” Mr Waite described a recent experience where Freya had helped to calm him through an anxiety attack at Cairns Central. “I have no idea what triggered it, but I forgot where I was, I started shaking, and she pulled me into the bank, because she knows there’s a chair there. “I sat there, and she jumped on my lap, and put her head against mine, which is what she’s trained to do. “She snuggled in until I relaxed and came back around. It took nearly half an hour, but I couldn’t have done it without her. “Freya goes with me everywhere – the gym, the shops, my psych appointments, she even flies with me on the plane and sits beside me. She will always be by my side.” Mr Waite started his cam-

paign after realising that many people who could benefit from assistance dogs were unable to get them due to the cost of purchasing, sterilising, microchipping, training and qualifying them. “Until recently, assistance dogs were not available for military veterans in Cairns, and they are still very hard to get,” he said. “I’m currently working with mental health professionals to put a care package together for their clients that may benefit from it, so the process is easier for them. “I have been put on permanent disability through the Department of Veteran Affairs so I am making it my life’s work to raise awareness for mental health and the benefits of having an assistance dog. “I am working with the DVA to make the process much easier for every veteran to go through the system in gaining an assistance dog. “Australia has lost more veterans to suicide than we have to the war in Afghanistan. “If I can assist one veteran a year and prevent them from becoming another tragic statistic, I have achieved my goal.” Mr Waite is the Assistant Dog Coordinator of Cairns and Tablelands FETCH, a not-for-profit group that assists with training qualified assistance dogs. He’s also president of the Patriots Military Motorcyle Club - Cairns Chapter, a not-for-profit club for current and former defence force members to get together for social rides, functions

and to fundraise for veteran and mental health causes. This Saturday, November 14, a fundraiser for FETCH will be held at the Patriots’ Club at 65 Oleander Street Holloways Beach, starting at 4:30pm, and all community members, both defence and civilians alike, are invited to attend this family-friendly event. Mr Waite and Freya have spent the past few months training a donated puppy, Sky. At 6pm at the event on Saturday, Sky will be donated to her new owner, a local 21-year-old woman living with mental and physical illnesses. There will be a sausage sizzle, car and bike display, raffles and a donation tin and the clubs are hoping to raise $1000 to put towards the next assistance dog. Anyone unable to attend can also donate by contacting the club. Mr Waite said the club was a safe place for anyone struggling with anxiety or depression, not just defence force members. “Panic attacks, anxiety, depression, PTSD and other mental illnesses affect almost all of us at some point, so just remember it’s not weak to speak,” he said. “As a president of a bike club who’s 110 kilograms and covered in tattoos, if I can talk about it, you can too, so don’t become a statistic, reach out to your mates.” For more information search for “Patriots Australia MMC Cairns Chapter” or “FETCH Cairns & Tablelands” on Facebook.

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Cairns Local News

Friday November 13, 2020

Crime and Justice Group seeks proven solutions to escalating crime

Community won’t let Old-Man quit NICOLE GIBSON At his age, Geoff Guest OAM should be taking life easy but the call for his methods and knowledge rehabilitating troubled youths has never been greater. Talking to Geoff ‘Old-Man’ Guest it’s easy to forget he’s just shy of 94. He has all the stamina and get up and go of someone decades younger and he needs it. If Cairns based Crime and Justice Action Group (CJAG) is successful, Mr Guest will be guiding the establishment of an education sentencing academy as part of their plan to address youth crime in the region. Mr Guest founded the Petford Training Farm, west of Mareeba, in 1978 and helped rehabilitate about 4000 troubled youths over the next two decades.

He said current punishment style deterrents were not working and programs focused on early intervention were the key to changing outcomes in the future. “There’s a whole range of things we can and should be doing,” Mr Guest said. “Punishment doesn’t work and it’s vitally important that we help families before trouble starts.” Mr Guest said big picture strategies were needed and if action wasn’t taken to start doing things differently the problem would continue. “It might take three generations to fix the problem but we need to start,” he said. “We can’t worry about what’s happened in the past, we’ve gotta say what can we do about it.” As a child of the stolen generation, Mr Guest was taken from his family at a young age and moved from mission to mission. At the age of 10, he escaped into the bush where

he hid for more than a year after being tied to a post and whipped so badly he lost the ability to speak. While Mr Guest is the first to admit he didn’t always get it right, his own experiences guided much of the work he did on recovery and rehabilitation and continue to drive him to find solutions to this day. CJAG spokesperson and former Petford Training Farm student, Aaron McLeod said Mr Guest’s methods were appealing to them because he was one of the first people to establish effective programs to help seriously troubled kids. “You’ve kids that have been impacted by drugs, impacted by alcohol, impacted by displacement and a whole range of social issues that have occurred within our communities,” Mr McLeod said. “Geoff was able to pioneer the diagnoses of these problems early on and then

to provide a treatment effectively in a practical hands-on way.” CJAG has received overwhelming community support since launching in March this year. Mr McLeod said he believed this is because they have provided the community with actual solutions based on research into the causes of the problems. “The research has been done, primary and secondary data has been analysed,” he said. “What we’ve presented is plan that is focused on people and the important structures, the important boundaries that all of us need growing up, so we can have some certainty in our lives, and we can actually build on that certainty and create a stable world to grow up in so we can then make effective decisions for our future.”

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Friday November 13, 2020

The Power of Kindness

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Cairns Local News

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1000 RAK Challenge NICOLE GIBSON

THE science is in – kindness not only helps others, it makes you happier and healthier which is why we’ve teamed up with the Kindness Crew of FNQ for a feel good challenge this World Kindness Day. The Kindness Crew of FNQ and Cairns Local News are challenging locals to perform random acts of kindness across the weekend as part of celebrations for World Kindness Day, today. The challenge encourages people to head to the Cairns Local News Facebook page and tell us when they have either performed or been the beneficiary of a random act of kind-

ness, with the goal of registering 1000 acts by Monday.

The Kindness Crew of FNQ, founded by Connect Magazine North Queensland’s Renee Cashman, are a local Facebook community committed to fostering kindness in the region. Ms Cashman said random acts of kindness were often easy to do and could be as simple as opening the door for someone in the shops or letting someone ahead of you during peak hour traffic. “Paying for coffee for the person behind you in a café or making a donation to a local charity like Yaps or Anglicare are also other good ones,” Ms Cashman said.

Ms Cashman said a good personal goal for people was to challenge themselves to compliment every person they come across in a day. “Simple things like that make a difference and can literally turn not just a person’s day but a person’s life around,” she said. For locals keen to ride the kindness vibe the group are also running a free workshop called a Time to Be Kind at 6.30pm at the Kamerunga Mediation and Wellness Centre. For more information visit the Kindness Crew’s Facebook page or to share a random act of kindness see facebook.com/ cairnslocalnews.

To make your donation, visit any Council Customer Service Centre or call 1300 763 903. Direct deposit and credit card options available.

NICOLE GIBSON First-time documentary filmmaker Kate Mascall took out The People’s Choice award at the Understory Film Festival Saturday night with her short film, Progress and Pool Noodles. The film, which also won the award for best documentary, documents Cairns Regional Council’s ongoing efforts to disperse a colony of endangered flying foxes from their roost at Cairns Library. Mascall has been documenting the dispersal since it began in July and said she entered the

competition in the hope it would provide another avenue for people to see what was happening to the species. “When I started watching the dispersal down on the street, I picked up a camera because I was kind of in disbelief at what I was seeing,” she said. “I was really accumulating all this shocking footage and thinking that I wanted more people to be able to see this at some point.” The dispersal has divided the Cairns community with Council maintaining it is necessary for the species long-term survival, while environmental

action groups say it is putting the already endangered creatures at further risk of extinction. Mascall said given the controversial nature of the issue she was grateful that the film was included in the Council run awards, which are assessed by an independent panel of judges. Other winners on the night included Daydreamer’s Pursuit by high school student Jasmine Bryan which won both Best Film and Best High School Student Film. Locals wanting to watch the films can head to the Understory Film Festival’s Facebook page for further details.

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Friday November 13, 2020

Supplement cuts spike foodbank demand Ms Roberts said the organisation was starting to see the knock-on effect from reductions to the Federal Government’s Coronavirus Supplement.

NICOLE GIBSON A Cairns charity is urging locals to clean out their pantries and donate any unwanted food items as demand spikes in the wake of cuts to the Coronavirus Supplement.

Crystal Cascades works Works to upgrade access and carparking to the popular Crystal Cascades swimming hole have started. The Crystal Cascades improvement works include the re-grading and shaping of embankments, new retaining walls, and the rehabilitation of road pavement and new kerbing on the Redlynch Intake Road carpark approaches.

Additional parallel parking along the roadway are part of the upgrades, along with a new bus parking area, CCTV camera surveillance The total number of peo- and footpath connections ple seeking emergency help through the carpark and irrigated garden beds. from Anglicare on a daily basis was about 40, in addition Council will also undertake to the 220 people currently works to improve the drainaccessing the low-cost shop- age in the area. The facility will remain open ping hub. Jobseekers and those on during construction, howevgovernment benefits saw er there may be temporary their payments drop by $300 disruptions to carpark acper fortnight when the sup- cess and lane closures.

To ensure the organisation had adequate supplies over the Christmas period, Community Outreach Program Manager Theresa Roberts encouraged locals to set aside a day to go through their pantries and give any unwanted food items to the charity.

She said it was really just

“Since the payments have gone down we are seeing an extra 15-20 people per day asking for help with food relief,” she said.

Anglicare North Queensland operates the Helping Hand Food Hub which offers low-cost grocery shopping and provides emergency food hampers to those who cannot afford to buy food.

“Normally in the lead up to Christmas we have a ‘Clear out your Pantry day’ where we ask people to go through their pantries to see what they’ve bought thinking that looks nice, but have never eaten,” Ms Roberts said.

Cairns Local News

FOOD BANK: Anglicare volunteers and staff unloading food relief about people working out what items they wanted and what they didn’t then making a donation.

tinned food and pasta sauce, Ms Roberts encouraged people to throw in a few luxury items if possible.

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of Arnott’s ginger snaps,” she said. “When you’re on a fixed budget anything luxury literally goes out the window so a packet of sweet biscuits to somebody is a luxury.”

plement reduced from $550 Motorists are reminded to to $250 at the end of Sep- please observe traffic controllers and signs advising tember. the changes to traffic condiThe payment is scheduled tions. Council apologies for to be rolled back all together any inconvenience. on December 31. This project is funded by the People wanting to make a Queensland Government’s donation can give Anglicare a Works for Queensland Procall on 4041 5454 to organise gram. a pickup or donate directly to their office at 179 Lake St.

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Friday November 13, 2020

PJs for patients donated to Innisfail Hospital NURSE Sharon Wilcox has been volunteering her time to find new pyjamas for Innisfail Hospital patients.

hospital gown wasn’t really appropriate.”

Sharon first noticed the need for PJs when a young woman was admitted to Innisfail hospital after a car accident.

“So I decided to try and get some PJs donated.”

“She had no family or friends here to help her out.”

“She came to hospital with only the clothes she had on,” explained Sharon.

Sharon, who has been a nurse with Innisfail Hospital for 34 years, has been seeking donations for PJs for 5 months and so far has many sets donated.

“I wanted to give her something to change into, and the

“Thank you to everyone who has helped with the

donations including Big W Cairns who have matched all purchases with equivalent amount, Larsen’s Newsagency and the people who have sold or bought tickets in my 100 Club boards.” Sharon is also supported by Julie Cameron and Gayanne Alison who have been embroidering the PJs with the word ‘Dignity’.

“We chose the word Dignity as a recognition that the PJs give our patients more con-

fidence and comfort, during their healing at the hospital.” Julie and Gayanne have been embroidering the PJs in their own time with their own supplies. The hospital can only accept new pyjamas due to infection control requirments. If you would like to donate new pyjamas to the Innisfail Hospital, please phone Sharon on 4016 1403 or drop off at Innisfail Hospital reception.

Sarah Morrison, Ranimol Thankachan, Sharon Wilcox, Samantha Arquines and Christian Aphado

Mission Beach gets cyclone ready NOW that the annual storm and cyclone season is upon us, regional centres are gearing up for a predicted tough season. Over 80 people attended a community information session at the Mission Beach Resort hosted by Mission Beach Community Support inc. On the night various essential topics werecovered, including home emergency readiness, access to information, generator use and troubleshooting before the season sets in as well as personal resilience: how the body acts in a traumatic situation. Officer in Charge of the Mission Beach Police Station Rob Smith and Sergeant Scott Hayes, Executive Officer for the Innisfail District Disaster Management Group spoke at length about the importance of being prepared and to follow the BOM Site and the Cassowary Coast Regional Council Disaster Dashboard. Andrew Portelli CCRC local Disaster Coordinator provided extensive information on how to deal with a cyclone or flood event and emphasized the importance of being prepared and to look after your neighbours. Local Red Cross volunteers Georgina Duggan and Truus Biddlecombe spoke about their experiences in the field and the many avoidable mistakes people have made in the past. Danny Dade from Mission Beach Generator Hire gave handy tips about using a generator. SES controller Bill Toffler advised the meeting that on Tuesday November 17 sandbags and plastic will be available at Frogs Hollow Community Hall, South Mission Beach Road from 6 till 8 pm. Closing the session was retired psychologist Bruce Parry who gave some helpful advice on how to cope during and after the event. The presentation will be available on the MBCS website www.mbcs.org.au/ or by emailing truus@4852mbca.com

YOUR VIEWS

Friday November 13, 2020

Cairns Local News

| 11

TXT the Editor 0438 195 408

WATER RESTRICTIONS Ray of Tully, if you keep wasting water like they do in Tully, you will have water restrictions. Its noit rocket science. Wettest areea does not mean waste water. Wettest area means loads of rain fall, nothing else. BARRY, Innisfail

Have we been dudded? They say a week in politics can feel like a year. I guess 14 days after the election we have the first tangible glimpse as to whether or not the new government can and will have any intention delivering on promises made. Throughout the campaign we had big ticket promises launched almost on a weekly basis. I guess most voters felt we in the north were important. Money was being thrown at us by the pork barrel. We were on the radar of the premier and we counted. But we don’t really count when it’s time to move into government. From Gladstone to Cairns, there’s only three members serving as ministers. Glenn Butcher from Gladstone is serving as Minister for Regional Development, Craig Crawford – Barron River is Minister for Seniors and Disability Services and Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships and Scott Scanlon is Minister for the Environment and the Great Barrier Reef and Minister for Science and Youth Affairs. Three ministers from an area stretching from Gladstone north to the cape and west to Mt Isa. An area rich in resources, tourism, world heritage environment, aboriginal and islander heritage and also contributing a massive percentage to the export dollars for this state. Surely we deserve better representation in the north. Surely a south-east-corner centric ministry cannot be good for Queensland.

WAYNE’S WORLD Hey Wayne, love ya bro. what are your thoughts on a north QLD state, and you can be King. VOTE 1 Wayne. DIMMY, Cairns North

Want to be heard? Send a text to the Editor 0438 195 408 FEEDBACK Awhhh… Local Paper is back! Thank you heaps! Does anyone know how long Copperload dam can service Cairns? MAGGIE, Cairns What a wonderful story on Subrina. A big shout out to Dr Lees at the hospital. We have great medical speciatists at our hospital. Thank you for bringing this story to a wider readership MICHAEL, Palm Cove BATS & UNDERSTORY Well done Kate for winning at the Understory Film Festival. The truth on the bats needed to be told and you have done it so well. Reg, Cairns CRUELTY TO HORSES Please don’t get upset that yet another horse has been put down whilst racing..... the owners just had an opportunity to send him to the pet food factory early, as thats where most race horses end their career. Pat, Yorkeys Knob

Whilst I get it that the SEQ corner has approximately 3 million voters, North of the Tropic of Capricorn dominated the state’s export dollars and hosts millions of tourists each year from overseas.

CLOSE THE BORDERS TO NSW I would love to see all Queensland borders closed totally to NSW. After last nights Origion loss, I really do not like NSW at all. Let them stay in that cockroach infested hole they call Sydney

Cairns local member, Michael Healy surely should head the tourism portfolio. Instead we have a tourism minister based in Brisbane, with no skin in the game and more connected with the south east corner than the holiday destination of the lifetime – North Queensland.

Fatty, Cairns

Is it any wonder there seems to be an appetite for a separate state in the north? The Queensland Premier seems to be fuelling this move. We need better representation. We deserve better representation. The north delivered politically for the Premier, we need more than pork barrelling every election time. Now the time for accountability has arrived, time to tick off the promises as they are delivered. It’s time to count the millions as they are spent. The multi millions promised to upgrade our hospital systems, the extra healthcare professionals promised along with 150 extra police officers in the north. If you cannot give us a fair voice in the ministry, at least deliver on every promise made. The north will be watching and judging. Peter McCullagh Editor.

Letters

LOCAL NEWS Love the Cairns Local News. You guys cover all the community news, and some really great reads. Keep it up. I will cancel my Cairns Post subscription, waste of money. D. T. Cairns A BIT BIASED I think your paper is slanted toward the environmental movement. Would prefer more balanced reporting. We do not need another clone of the daily. MEG, Cairns EDITORS NOTE: We welcome your feedback, and you are right, it is important to be balanced in reporting. We are happy to be held accountable for what we write. Please contact me direct at editor@CairnsLocalNews. com.au and voice your specific concerns. INDEPENDENCE IN MEDIA I was one of the 500,000 Australian who signed the patition to parliament asking for a royal commisison into the Murdoch controlled press. So happy to see independence in print again in Cairns. Keep up the good work. BTW loving the quiz each week. Can get more than 20 right. Very challenging. D.T. Innisfail, LOST DINOSAUR Did they find Oscar? I hope he’s ok. Great story and lovely pics. Johnno, Earlville

Got an issue you’re passionate about? Send a letter to the Editor - letters@CairnsLocalNews.com.au

With recent research showing 2 in 5 young men do not recognise both physical and emotional abuse as domestic violence, White Ribbon Queensland is urging all Queenslanders to help raise awareness for Domestic Violence during White Ribbon Day, Friday 20th November. Due to the uncertainty of COVID19, White Ribbon Queensland is asking everyone to decorate their letterboxes in white on Friday 20th November, to raise awareness and start conversations on Domestic Violence. Sue Clarke*, mother and grandmother of Hannah Clarke and her 3 children who were killed by their father earlier this year, joins White Ribbon Queensland in their letterbox campaign, commenting on the white letterbox campaign, Ms Clarke states, “it is so very important to get the message out there to prevent something like what happened to my daughter and my grandchildren from ever happening again. “I will not be able to hug them again, but we, together, can make a change and break the cycle of domestic and family violence.” Ms Clarke continues. White Ribbon Queensland encourages everyone to decorate their letterboxes with white ribbons, white balloons, white lights, white teddy bears, white flowers, streamers, or bed sheets to raise awareness and conversations surrounding Domestic Violence. White Ribbon Day aims to raise awareness of domestic violence, promote respectful relationships

and creating a community free of violence and abuse. Community by Community, workplace by workplace, White Ribbon Australia seeks to generate an ongoing message against gendered violence and eliminate men’s violence against women.

When do we get our Universitry Hospital? Well the election is over and the ALP has won. Time to start working on the hospital. We already have a great hospital with brilliant staff, Subrina is proof of that. Imagine just how good we can be when we have our new Universtity Hospital and more staff. John K Gordonvale

12 |

NEWS

Cairns Local News

Friday November 13, 2020

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Being elfish is a hobbit thats hard to break WAYNES WORLD G’DAY Tropicairnians. I was having a major brain leaking episode regarding the life challenging problem of what would it be like and whether it would be better to be a Hobbit or an Elf for 24 hours. We discussed this huge topic at the big green box on Monday night and at times it got a little lively. Since it is an extremely serious and life defining subject, you can always count upon Wayne’s World to tackle the biggest and most devisive issues of the day.

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Now this is not a decision to be made lightly. The life of a hobbit is to be a tenderer

(gardener for you less middle-earth educated) of the earth. You care and obsess over your garden, potatoes or whatnots and allowing them to grow to their fullest potential with your love.

A hobbit gets first, second and third breakfast with a total of 6 plus meals a day while being able to wander around bare foot (big as they are) drinking ale (my preferred choice is Guinness) and not hit your head on light fixtures (I have enjoyed this all my life) at the Ye Old Green Dragon Tavern. Now if an elf is your choice, then you have to decide what type, North Pole elf, Wood elf, Dark elf or a High elf (at

the snobby higher end and always on horseback). If you are into pointy ears then elfision is for you, as a Santa’s North Pole elf you get to make toys, shovel reindeer poo and drink hot chocolate all day. Now the other elves are warriors so that that does not appeal to me as it all sound likes too much hard work. So for this doorman I like the idea of hobbitry, plus I love ale and food. So live life to the fullest, sometimes go with crazy and not always safe. Wayne.

Go to the Markets SATURDAY NOVEMBER 14 Babinda: Main St, 8;00-12noon Cooktown: Lions Park, 7:00-12noon Kuranda: Heritage Markets, 10:00-3:00 Kuranda: Original Rainforest Markets, 9:30-3:00 Mareeba: Centenary Park, 7:0012noon Mega Cent Sale Animal Rescue Tablelands: Cairns Brass Bingo Hall, 145 Mulgrave Rd 1:00-3:00pm Mossman: St David’s Church, 6:0012noon Rossville: Hatfield Marketplace, 9:0012noon Tully: Main St, 8:00-12noon

SUNDAY NOVEMBER 15 Herberton / Wondecla: Wondecla Sports Grounds, 7:00-12noon Kuranda: Heritage Markets, 10:00-3:00 Kuranda: Original Rainforest Markets, 9:30-3:00 Mission Beach North: Opposite Hideaways, 7:00-12noon Port Douglas: By St Mary’s Church, 8:001:30 Speewah: Country Tavern’s Market Square, 8:00-2:00 Woree Neighbourhood Watch Markets: 585 Bruce Hwy, 8:00-1:00

Go to the Markets

NEWS

Friday November 13, 2020

Community celebrates culture TANYA MURPHY A NAIDOC celebration was held at Cairns Villa and Leisure Park on Tuesday November 10. This is the first time a NAIDOC event has been held in the park, which has a large population of Indigenous and Torres Strait Islander residents, and is part of a project by community program creator Yolonde Entsch to address poverty, domestic violence and crime in the area. About 200 park residents and visitors enjoyed a traditionally cooked meal blessed by park resident Dilassa Alo, and as well as traditional painting, drawing, weaving, and face painting. Carl Fourmile performed the Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony and the Minjil Dance Group provided entertainment. “We wanted to do something in the park that pulled the park residents together to give that sense of community,” said Ms Entsch. “People kind of stick to them-

Cairns Local News

| 13

selves in the park, and we wanted everyone to come together and be able to celebrate NAIDOC. “It was a great day, for the kids to be able to come out and enjoy some fun and entertainment and also have that connection back to culture.” Park residents Sarie Tabo and Janel Gibson helped organise the event and said they hoped it would become an annual occurrence. “It brings families together. It’s culturally important to get the kids involved,” said Ms Gibson. Cairns Acting Chief Superintendent Chris Hodgman attended the event and said NAIDOC week was very important for Queensland Police Service. “We have many first nations people that work with us and beside us so I thought it was a good opportunity come down and meet everyone and celebrate this week with them,” he said. “We’re really trying to prevent crime instead of having to

Rosella Sakawai (7), Kunji Gibson (8), Maree Sakawai (10), Kayleah Gibson (11), Malleah Kaigeya (9) and Teena Scott (10) at the Cairns Villa and Leisure Park NAIDOC celebration. Photo by Tanya Murphy. react to it so the closer we can come to the community and try to understand each other, the better for all of us.” The park has long been a crime and domestic violence hot spot for Cairns, but concerted efforts by volunteers and park management have helped to

address this over the past year. In November last year, Ms Entsch and volunteers opened the Women’s Yarning Place in the park to provide a safe space for women at risk of domestic violence. “The

Women’s

Yarning

Place is a safe, nurturing and judgement-free space for atrisk women in the park and surrounding areas to connect and engage in meaningful activities such as arts and crafts, which they can then sell to raise money,” said Ms Entsch. Park owner Tony Breuer was

the major sponsor of the NAIDOC event, while funding was also provided by the National Indigenous Australians Agency, Queensland Department of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, Rotary Club of Cairns, Zonta Club of Cairns, and Collier Family Law.

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Cairns Local News

NEWS

Friday November 13, 2020

Chefs go troppo for our fruit TANYA MURPHY Chefs at trendy fine dining restaurants in Australia’s capital cities are going troppo for the rare and exotic ultra-tropical fruits grown by the Salleras family in Mission Beach, and it has won them a national award. A chef from the Sunshine Coast nominated the family-owned business “Fruit Forest Farm” in the Delicious Harvery Norman Produce awards, and they won the top gong after entering a box of fruits including abiu, jackfruit, rambutans, black sapote, breadfruit and durian. The award recognises new, innovative, and consistently outstanding Australian ingredients grown with dedication, passion, knowledge, and regard for the environment.

subtropical climates as far south as Sydney, there are few places in Australia where ultra-tropical fruits like these can be grown, and very special conditions and care are required in growing them, caring for them and picking them at the right time to preserve the flavours and textures.”

ic recipes that can be created from these fruits, with celebrity chef Danielle Alvarez sharing a mouth-watering recipe for Black Sapote Molasses and Ginger Cake on the “deliciousaus” Instagram page recently.

The Salleras’ property includes 160 acres of rainforest-covered mountain, which provides natural spring water, encourages pollinators and creates a micro-climate perfect for growing the fruit, which is farmed on about 10 acres around the foot of the mountain.

“Avocadoes were considered new and exotic about 40 years ago and now they’re huge, and some of these other ultra-tropical fruits are becoming much more popular now too,” he said.

Judge and celebrity chef Neil Perry said the resulting taste was amazing.

“We’ve never applied for any competitions before, so it’s a pretty big deal to win, over 20 other finalists, on our first time being nominated,” said Peter Salleras.

“Tasting them, I can honestly say I was transported back to Thailand. There’s such a sweetness and concentration of flavour that is rare with these fruits in Australia,” he said.

“Unlike bananas and mangoes which can be grown in

Chefs and foodies alike are going nuts over the exot-

Mr Salleras said the demand for ultra-tropical fruits was growing.

“There’s a massive demand for our stuff - it’s all sold before it even flowers. It all goes to the capital cities where fine dining is fashionable - but we are starting to get more interest from local restaurants.” Last year the farm also won runner up at the Queensland Landcare awards for its environmentally friendly land management practices. Peter and Alison, who are third-generation local

Exotic fruit farmer Peter Salleras

farmers, started the farm in 1983 and said they absolutely loved working on the farm with their daughter Skye Orsmond, son-in-law Warren Orsmond, grandson Max Orsmond (age two) and up to 10 staff.

back,” said Mr Salleras.

“People said we were crazy to start a fruit farm because everyone around here grows cane, bananas, or cattle, but we’ve never looked

“Variety is the spice of life and we’re always experimenting with new things because it keeps it interesting for us. It also means if one

“For us quality comes first and just like the biodiverse rainforest that surrounds our farm, we grow a huge diversity of different things rather than growing a huge area of one thing.

fruit has a bad season we always have something else.” The farm offers tours will reopen in April 2021. Tours include tractor ride around the farm, cassowary spotting, cultural history and bush tucker, tasting up to 30 different fruits picked directly from the tree, and tasting of recipes, such as black sapote mousse prepared by Mrs Salleras.

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NEWS

Friday November 13, 2020

Cairns Local News

Cairns Remembers AROUND 250 people gathered at the Cairns War Memorial at 11am on Wednesday, November 11 to commemorate Remembrance Day, on the 102nd anniversary of the Armistice that ended the First World War. Wreaths were laid, local high school students sang the National Anthem, and everyone joined in reverent silence to remember those who have served or currently serve in the defence force. Cairns Mayor Bob Manning was among the Na-

| 15

tional Serviceman called for service in Vietnam in 1969, and said the numbers at the event were as strong as ever. “Remembrance Day means a lot for everyone. Serving our country is the spirit of our society, whether in the military or in any other way. It’s great to see the younger generations here,” he said. “It’s important to reflect how lucky we are and continue to help those less fortunate in society.”

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NEWS 16 | ‘Economically Speaking’ Cairns Local News

Friday November 13, 2020

Reiki Week

Is debt bad? Cassowary Coast Economic Development Group SUZANNE BASSETTE WHEN is debt an intelligent decision? Right about now actually. Most of us are brought up with the message that being in debt is a bad thing and can hold us back in life, or worse end up in bankruptcy or losing our homes. But when COVID-19 broke out, the Federal and State Governments went into serious debt to cushion us from an economic freefall that would have seen us all very quickly join the bread queue, including all those public servants who never knew a moment’s stress about their jobs or wages this year. Our Council implemented plans to help with financial stress and, feeling pressure to reduce the annual budget, they are now preparing to sell a swathe of public assets to bring down costs. You might ask why? Two words: Asset Depreciation. Something that businesses utilise but is a whole different story when it comes to local government. Every day we are hearing this term ‘asset depreciation’ thrown around. Apparently an invention of the State Government, it is causing a lot of problems for our Council. Clearly, assets don’t just cost money to maintain, but you get the impression the depreciating process actually works like a tax on the ratepayer. This process (not the actual maintenance cost of assets) is driving this sale of

assets. Many will remember the previous Council paid out tens of millions of dollars in ratepayer debt. This debt was costing money due to high interest charges etc, so paying out made sense. Let’s call that ‘dumb debt’. In the process, they basically drained the bank accounts, so we gained on the one hand but became asset rich and cash poor on the other. The upshot is an increasing mentality that we don’t want to own anything if we can help it please. What’s a few less toilet blocks here or there? Or a community building or two? A bit like the business that shuts down stores to keep others open. Only Councils are not businesses. They are public infrastructure custodians with serious responsibilities and obligations to future generations. As a business owner I am not alone in questioning what the hell these bureaucrats are thinking. In the past week or so the Federal Reserve Bank has embarked on a money printing exercise that will see $5 billion a week over 6 months, injected into the economy to buy up bonds in the market place, and they will pursue this strategy until we see an ‘actual’ inflation rate. Okay so the Federal Government is lucky and the rest of us can’t print money. But part of this scheme is to supress interest rates at coma-like levels until the economy picks up. Introducing ‘intelligent debt’.

Councils now have access to virtually interest free loans and those who keep up a ‘debt free’ mantra are writing off their credit ratings and denying themselves access to debt-linked benefits and grants. Whatever the bureaucrats are advising, it flies in the face of practical longterm thinking. At a time when every other level of government is borrowing to activate our economy, and businesses and citizens are being encouraged to take up ‘intelligent debt’, it seems to me ours has succumbed to depression era thinking and this should be debated. Council’s like ours should use the current opportunity to obtain ‘intelligent debt’ of $10-20 million dollars at near zero interest, and pay for construction of some of the master plan activation projects which are steadily growing dust. If we sit around waiting for our turn to feed from the grants bucket, our region is going to stay looking poor, broke and uninviting. But in return, the state government should declare a 5 - 10 year freeze on its mojo killing asset depreciation rules, or better yet follow the federal government lead and offer asset write-off’s. The struggle is that the senior bureaucrats own the conversation and they are increasingly resistant to the idea of taking on outside views.

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Cairns Local News

NEWS

Friday, November 13, 2020

Celebrating NAIDOC Week A special Welcome to Country and an address by 2020 Cairns Young Australia of the Year Daniel Rosendale opened Wednesday’s Council Committee Meetings to mark NAIDOC Week. Themed “Always Was, Always Will Be”, NAIDOC Week 2020 recognises that First Nations people have occupied and cared for this continent for over 65,000 years.

livered a special Welcome to Country, followed by an address from 2020 Cairns Young Australia of the Year, Daniel Rosendale. The program builds on Council initiatives recognising the importance of NAIDOC Week, including specially designed polo shirts (worn by all Councillors on Wednesday), and a Wall of Hands on display in the courtyard at the Council Spence Street building.

Traditional Owners Jeanette Singleton from the YirMayor Bob Manning said rganydji people and Carl NAIDOC Week was an opFourmile from the Gimuy portunity for all Australians to Walubara Yidinji people de- take a moment and contem-

Saving the world one container at a time NICOLE GIBSON TALKING trash with this tiny team of rubbish rangers, it’s obvious they are acutely aware how recycling through their school’s Containers for Change program is changing outcomes for people and the planet. National Recycling Week, this week, marks almost two years since Our Lady Help of Christians School (OLHCS) students signed on for the Containers for Change program. The program earns OLHCS 10-cents for each eligible container they recycle and is stewarded by grade six Recycling Committee members Katie Corbett, Tabalu Carra and Angus Oliver. Since starting the program the school has recycled thousands of milk bottles, fruit juice boxes and soft drink cans, donating the fruits of their hard work to local charities. In the past eight weeks alone the school has recy-

cled more than 2000 containers with their most recent earnings going to fund a boxing bag for the senior citizens exercise program at their local Parish. “I’ve always been really passionate about the environment and doing my part for conservation to make sure that the environment is still here for future generations,” said Katie Corbett. “Then I found out we were doing it at school and I thought it was a really good idea because we’re recycling and donating to worthy causes at the same time.” From saving the environment and reducing air pollution to protecting animals, lowering greenhouse gases and helping their community, it’s clear this team are an inspired bunch with a depth of knowledge that would school most grown-ups. “Recycling is important because it reduces our waste so it’s not going into the ocean, it’s not affecting animals and we’re reusing it,”

said Recycling Committee member Tabalu Carra. “We’re using these older (containers) to make new containers,” he said. “We’re not causing pollution in the air because we don’t have to use the factories.” Palm Tree Recycling is the school’s registered Containers for Change partner and operates two refund points at Smithfield and Bungalow. Co-Managing Director Connie Luders said it was amazing to see how the school had embraced the program. “I feel such a warmth and so inspired by this school,” Ms Luders said. “This school are not just saying they’re recycling, they’re doing it and they are doing well.” Ms Luders said National Recycling Week was a good opportunity for people to review how they are manage their recycling and improve their practices.

plate how they could contribute to reconciliation. “We can all contribute to the reconciliation journey by acknowledging Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the First Peoples of this land and take the time to learn about the rich culture and history of our Indigenous people,” Cr Manning said. “Our ancestors were scholars, teachers, farmers, astronomers and much more, they cared for and understood their world deeply and intimately.

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Cairns Local News

Friday November 13, 2020

OPEN HOMES SUBURB

DAY TIME

ADDRESS

TYPE BED BATH CAR

AGENT

Clifton Beach

Sat

10:00-10:45

23 Tydeman Crs

First National Cairns Central and Cairns Beaches

Freshwater

Sat

11:00-11:30

116 Petersen St

First National Cairns Central and Cairns Beaches

Freshwater

Sun

11:00-11:30

116 Petersen St

First National Cairns Central and Cairns Beaches

Kewarra Beach

Sat

11:00-11:45

18 Monterey St

First National Cairns Central and Cairns Beaches

Kewarra Beach

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1:00-1:30

2 Marmion Cl

First National Cairns Central and Cairns Beaches

Kewarra Beach

Sun

1:00-1:30

2 Marmion Cl

First National Cairns Central and Cairns Beaches

Manoora

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10:00-10:30

305/2-8 Centenary Cl

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Mount Sheridan

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1:30-2:00

29 Paluma St

First National Cairns Central and Cairns Beaches

Palm Cove

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12:00-1:00

44a Cedar Rd

Palm Cove Prestige

Palm Cove

Sat

10:30-11:30

3/11 Colonel Cummings Dr

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Westcourt

Sat

11:00-11:30

18/87 Earl St

First National Cairns Central and Cairns Beaches

White Rock

Sat

12:00-12:30

29 Cracknell Rd

First National Cairns Central and Cairns Beaches

Whitfield

Sat

2:00-3:00

2/139 Jensen St

Ace Real Estate Cairns

Whitfield

Sun

2:00-3:00

2/139 Jensen St

Ace Real Estate Cairns

TOWNSVILLE TO THE DAINTREE (Located in Cairns)

Friday November 13, 2020

HOUSE OF THE WEEK

Cairns Local News

| 21

Freshwater Beauty

Freshwater is a much -in-demand suburb featuring beautiful two storey homes for a great mix of families and professional couples. Combine this with a sense of remoteness, plus the convenience of locality, easy distance to the CBD as well as Redlynch and Smithfield, is it any wonder why properties are in demand in Freshwater. This home is very well maintained with beautiful, polished hardwood flooring, charming timber and slate features. Your new family home awaits your personal touches to create your fashionable Freshwater abode. • Upper level boasts an impressive entry statement and open plan living • Kitchen with the bonus of gas cooking and dining area adjacent

Location:

116 Patersen St,

Freshwater Bedrooms: 4

• 3 bedrooms with built in robes and split system air-conditioning

Bathrooms: 2

• Spacious modern bathroom • Full length covered balcony capturing cooling breezes, great mountain views and panoramic sunsets

Cars:

Inspect:

Sat & Sun 11 - 11.30

Agency:

Forst National Cairns

Agent:

Mark Carmody

• Ground level features a generous sized multipurpose rumpus room plus

0428 581 117

4th bedroom or home office/study

Price:

$595,000

• Second bathroom with separate toilet • Ample lockable storage under stairway • Large and inviting swimming pool • Triple carports plus side access to the rear of this 865m2 block In one of Cairns most sought after suburbs, close to all the local amenities and a short walk to Freshwater State School, this great property is sure to impress.

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24 |

MOTORING

Cairns Local News

Are you cool enough?

AIR CONDITIONING

DIAGNOSTICS & REPAIR

ALCOHOL INTERLOCKS

YEARS ago we wound down the windows on our cars, rested our elbows out the door and we were cool. Cool being not just cooler in temperature but also cooool. Today when we want to be cool in our cars we flick a switch and presto, instant cooling air. We can even dial up degrees of coolness. How cool is that. But unfortunately sometime we cannot be cool enough, because that wonderful air conditioning system is just not playing along. Its pumping luke-warm air or the airflow would not ruffle the toupee on Donald Trump’s head. We could be in for a grim summer. Car air conditioning issues can be easily remedied. The trick is to identify the issue early and take preventative or remedial action. The air isn’t cold enough. If your air conditioning system is still working, but the air coming out of it isn’t cold enough to do its job, then your refrigerant may need topping up or recharging. If you don’t use your car air conditioning for long enough particularly in the colder months or on shorter trips, the problem can go

CAMPING

Friday November 13, 2020

unnoticed. As a result, turning your air conditioning on in the summer months, when you need it the most can be rather unpleasant if it’s not working. Not a pleasant sweet smell. If there is a bad smell coming out of your air con system, it can mean that your system just needs a good clean. Over time dust and dirt can pass through the system and get stuck. If this is the case the bacteria builds up and can cause a foul smell, a bit like mildew, that comes out when you turn the system on. Barely a breathe of air Sometimes leaks are caused in the system, which can cause your car’s air conditioning to stop working as efficiently as it used to. It can also indicate a more serious problem including compressor malfunctions. Moisture and age can cause your car air conditioning system to leak? Some of the lines

within your air conditioning are made from rubber, which decomposes over time after being in contact with heat and moisture. This can cause the seals or hoses to leak and the refrigerant escapes out the system. Similarly, if the system is contaminated with moisture, it can affect other parts within the air conditioning. Car air conditioning systems should be serviced regularly. With the extreme heat and humidity here in the north, our cars cooling systems take a hammering. The last thing we want is for it to fail when the temperature is in the mid-thirties and 100% humidity. Book into a licenced car air conditioning specialist and have it checked now before summer, that way you can be doubly cool this summer.

With a Can Do attitude we provide services from the city, down the coast and to the outback! Offering a complete range of auto electrical air conditioning repairs, the Williams team are proudly professional, qualified and licensed, and ready to get you on the road quickly and safely! We services all makes and models and stock a large range of parts or Classic and Vintage Vehicles.

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MOTORING

Friday November 13, 2020

Sharing the road

Cairns Local News

| 25

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BIKE riding’s a great way to get some fresh air and exercise while you’re practicing safe social distancing. What’s the minimum passing distance the orange car needs to give this bike rider? a. 0.5 metres b. 1 metre c. 1.5 metres d. 2 metres Bike riders are allowed to ride on the road in Queens-

land, so please note that rules about staying wider of the rider are here to stay. If you’re worried about registration we’re just going to remind everyone that we all (including bike riders) contribute to the cost of roads with our rates and general taxes. Registration fees don’t go straight into infrastructure—they’re incorporated into the whole-of-government consolidated fund which is used to pay for all sorts of

important state government initiatives. The costs to develop and administer a registration scheme and the costs to members of the public to register their bikes outweigh the benefits we’d see from it—which is why there isn’t a jurisdiction in Australia that registers them.

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MOTORING

Cairns Local News

Friday November 13, 2020

Mobile phone and seatbelt camera detection trial The Queensland Government is trialling new cameras designed to save lives by detecting people using mobile phones illegally while driving and drivers and their front seat passengers not wearing seatbelts. The Department of Transport and Main Roads and the Queensland Police Service are working with 2 companies to test the cameras until late 2020. Illegal mobile phone use and failing to wear a seatbelt cost lives and accounts for significant serious injuries on Queensland roads. New camera technology is available to help detect these actions. Trialling this new technology to help save lives is a key action in Queensland’s Road Safety Action Plan. The trial aims to test if cameras with Artificial Intelligence, (AI) software can detect if someone is using their mobile phone illegally, or failing to wear their seatbelt with a high degree of accuracy. The trial will take place from mid-year and is expect-

ed to run until the end of the year. Testing of both fixed and portable cameras will occur as part of this trial. Camera locations will not be published. Portable cameras will be trialled in both urban and regional areas across Queensland. These cameras will be moved to multiple locations throughout the trial. Fines and demerit points resulting from the trial camera detections will not be issued during the trial. However, the police will continue to enforce the laws using traditional roadside enforcement methods. The cameras will take multiple images of vehicles in the lane of traffic that passes the camera. This will include inside the vehicle cabin, mainly the front seats and external images that include the registration plates of the vehicle. From the images, the AI software will detect whether there is possible illegal use of a mobile phone by a driver or failure to wear a seatbelt

by a driver or front seat passenger. People will not be identified through the images. The cameras are not designed to capture or analyse the biometric data of a person. Images that do not contain any illegal mobile phone use or failure to wear a seatbelt will be deleted by the system in a short timeframe. Images will not be used for any other purpose, except to check the registration status of a vehicle. They are committed to protecting the privacy of drivers and passengers and we are working with the Office of the Information Commissioner to make sure the cameras comply with privacy legislation, as well as community expectations. Only authorised personnel involved in the trial will be able to view images to confirm the viability of the technology. All data will be securely encrypted and stored within Australia.

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Friday November 13, 2020

Hola amigos! A trip to Mexico is currently out of the questions. The next best thing for an exciting taste of Mexico is a trip to the Fiesta held every weekend at the Stratford Deli. The newly launched tapas menu is innovative and delicious paired alongside cocktails with a modern twist. From hand-rolled pork Chi-

michangas to tasty tortillas, their menu has something for everyone. Set in their tropical courtyard garden and ac-

DINING

Cairns Local News

| 27

companied by the exotic music by Latin diva Nikki Doll, the weekends come alive from 12 noon Saturday and Sunday, every week. Their lush courtyard is the perfect venue for your Mexican Christmas party celebration. Not sure on what to order? Start with an invigorating chili margarita accompanied with their Mexican Meze plate. Their ultimate sampling Meze plate provides a mini serve of nachos on housemade crunchy tortilla chips with an assortment of salas, elote grilled corn, jalapeno popper and choice of two tacos (Carne Asada beef, pulled pork, coconut battered Mackerel or homemade falafel), bringing the party to your mouth. Siesta specials run between 4-6pm! Even though you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t dance, your tastebuds can! Located at 7 Kamerunga road, every weekend from 12 noon!

Great Coffee situated in the heart of Palm Cove Serving Breakfast and Lunch David and his team will always greet you with Friendly Fabulous Service

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Come in and bring your family and friends or take-away for a traditional feed by the beach or in the back yard.

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28 |

WEEKEND GETAWAY

Cairns Local News

Friday November 13, 2020

A journey to remember AMY MACALPINE

Mark Pierson and Maggy Sietsma at the Station Cafe

Although there is currently no projected date of completion, the team has worked tirelessly, through rain and shine, to get the steam engines up and running again. “We are in the process of rebuilding one of the steam engines and it’s almost at the stage of running,” said Mark Pierson, who has been working with the group for the past five years. The group has also been working on a model railway that has recently opened to the public at the Station Café, situated at the Atherton end of the railway line. Here, visitors can use control switches to propel the model train along the track that weaves through tiny, hand-crafted buildings and landscapes. Maggy Sietsma, the owner of the Station Café, has worked closely with the AthertonHerberton Historic Railway Group and expects the railway line to transform the local community upon completion. “I think it’s going to be really good for nostalgic people,” she said. “There’s something comforting about old railway stations because they were the main source of transport once upon a time.” She also highlighted the benefits of the project, not only

for members of the public but the volunteers themselves. “It’s very therapeutic for the volunteers. They all get to wear a uniform and feel like they’re part of something.” Although the group has achieved many milestones since 2003, it hasn’t all been smooth sailing. “Every day is a challenge,” Bob said. “We have the physical challenges of trying to get enough people to do the work in the hot weather. However, finance is our biggest hurdle as we run the train and everything else purely with volunteers. We’ve spent just a bit short of $190,000 on our track, our station and our steam engines, all without funding from the outside.” Shane Knuth, State Member for Hill, has worked closely with the Atherton-Herberton Historic

Railway Group, particularly in promoting the benefits of the project on a government level. “I’ve worked with the group in highlighting to the ministers the importance of upgrading the railway line and the benefits it will have for the Tablelands in a range of different fields.” He indicated that the railway line will become a key point of attraction for travellers visiting the region and will provide financial security for many local businesses. “When completed, the Herberton historic railway will really secure that extra incentive for travellers,” he said. “A lot of people love the fact that we’ve got waterfalls but sometimes it may not be enough to draw people up this way. However, the historic railway will. The train will go past the Herberton Historic Village and people will have an opportunity to visit other unique attractions on the Tablelands, whilst spending dollars that will create many jobs for the region.”

LOCO PHOTOS M.JULES

In challenging times like these, wouldn’t it be nice to escape from reality and take a trip down memory lane? Well, in the not too distant future this will be possible, thanks to the AthertonHerberton Historic Railway Group. Each week, around fifty volunteers assemble at the Herberton station to help restore the railway line between Atherton and Herberton and bring the old steam locomotives back to life. From mechanical engineers to gardeners, the volunteers contribute a variety of different skills to the project, dedicating their time purely out of passion. The group was first established in 2003 by a small group of volunteers who shared one big dream. Since then, the group has not only gained an array of new members, they have also gained official ownership of the Atherton to Herberton section of the railway, which stretches a distance of 22km. “We purchased it from Queensland Rail about seven or eight years ago and we now own everything but the land,” said Bob Slater, the President and Operations Manager of the Atherton-Herberton Historic Railway Group. After working with the group for the past 13 years, he has built strong connections with the community and feels as though the project has really helped to unite the two towns.

RELAX AND UNWIND

Friday November 13, 2020

BILL BAILEY’S REMARKABLE GUIDE TO HAPPINESS

Cairns Local News

| 29

Television

A compilation of funny, personal, and meditative essays about happiness by national treasure Bill Bailey, fully illustrated by Bill Bailey himself. In Bill Bailey’s Remarkable Guide to Happiness, Bill explores the nature of happiness and ways to be, well, happy. Being Bill Bailey however, he does so in his own, remarkable, Bill Bailey way. From paddle-boarding down the Thames in a Santa hat, to wild swimming in a glacial river, Bill considers the exhilaration of the outdoors, as well as the quieter pleasures of clearing out your moth-eaten grey t-shirts. He attempts to see beyond the mumbo-jumbo of the wellness industry and aims for the heart of real joy and contentment - and how we can all achieve it. This collection of funny, meditative and thoughtful essays seeks out simplicity and clarity as a corrective to the endless background noise of anxiety-inducing news chatter. Whether it’s whooping aloud while cycling through a pine forest, putting pen to paper, or immersing yourself in music, Bill’s guide to happiness is an antidote to the frenetic whirl of modern life. Fully illustrated with drawings by Bill himself, this is a wonderful gift of a book for anyone who needs a slice of comfort. Bill Bailey is a comedian, musician, actor and presenter. He is perhaps most well known for his live shows - most recently Qualmpeddler, Limboland, and The Remarkable Guide to the Orchestra. His work on television includes programmes such as Never Mind the Buzzcocks, Black Books and QI. He was also the host of Bill Bailey’s Birdwatching Bonanza in January 2010, and wrote and presented his award-winning documentary about Alfred Russel Wallace, Bill Bailey’s Jungle Hero, in 2013. He lives in West London with a small menagerie of animals and humans.

ABC Television

Road Kill

MUM

Roadkill is a British four-part television thriller written and created by David Hare and directed by Michael Keillor. It was first broadcast on BBC One in October 2020.

Mum is a British sitcom written by Stefan Golaszewski centred around recently widowed, suburban 59-year-old Cathy, played by Lesley Manville and her family, following her husband’s death. Each episode is named after a calendar month in the year, except series three which is set over just one week. The series features Cathy’s supportive lifelong friend Michael,played by Peter Mullan, and her family: son Jason and his girlfriend Kelly, Cathy’s brother Derek and his new partner Pauline, and Cathy’s in-laws.

The series stars Hugh Laurie playing Peter Laurence, as a self-made, forceful and charismatic politician positioned in the cabinet as Justice Minister. Peter Laurence, a self-made Conservative Party minister who “embodies the fictional future of the Conservative party”. Peter’s life seems to be falling apart, or is being picked apart by enemies, but as personal revelations about Peter emerge, he seeks to further his own agenda. With others plotting to bring him down, Peter is untroubled by guilt or remorse as he attempts to out-run his enemies and his past, with his eyes on the ultimate political prize.

Series 1 is currently on ABC and the full series is available on ABC iView.

Road Kill can be seen on ABC Television on Sunday night or is available on ABC iView. ABC Mock the Week Mock the Week is a British satirical celebrity panel show screening on ABC Hosted by Irish comedian, Dara O’Briain and featuring regular appearances by Hugh Dennis. Two teams compete to bring a light-hearted spin to the news of the day. Always taking comedy and news to the edge, Mock the Week has been regularly reported for comments and jokes made by its panelists. Series 10 is currenlty screening on ABC. Although filmed back in 2011 the comedy is fresh and challenging and will be sure to offend some of the righteous, but delight the masses. Catch Mock the Week on ABC or iView.

Collins Booksellers Smithfield Best Sellers November 2 - 8, 2020 1. The Deep End #15 Diary of a Wimpy Kid Jeff Kinney 2. The 130-Storey Treehouse - Andy Griffiths & Terry Denton 3. Breaker Morant - Peter Fitzsimons 4. Behind the Enigma - John Ferris 5. A Life on Our Planet - David Attenborough 6. Bill Bailey’s Remarkable Guide to Happiness - Bill Bailey 7. The Dressmakers Secret - Rosalie Ham 8. Verandah Santa - Bluey 9. The Little Yellow Digger Saves Christmas - Peter Gilderdale 10. The Sentinel - Lee Child

HIGHLIGHTS ABC TELEVISION THIS WEEK Sunday November 15 8:40 Roadkill (ep 3 of 4 in season 1) Monday November 16 8:30 Whose Line is it Anyway? Tuesday November 17 8:30 Capturing Cricket: Steve Waugh in India 8:30 Adam Hills: The Last Leg - ABC Comedy Wednesday November 18 8:30 Friday Night Dinner - ABC Comedy 9:22 Rosehaven ABC Comedy Thursday November 19 8:32 Griff’s Great Kiwi Road Trip 9:01 Mock the Week ABC Comedyl Friday November 20 8:34 Vera 9:17 Absolutely Fabulous ABC Comedy Friday November 21 9:21 Endeavour

30 |

Cairns Local News

ENTERTAINMENT

Friday November 13, 2020

Vivien’s soulful sound TANYA MURPHY Growing up in a musical family in Papua New Guinea, Vivien Aisi has always had music in her blood. “The first time I sang for others was when I was five. My Dad was playing ‘Sad Movies’ by Sue Thompson on the guitar, and I burst into singing it and surprised everyone. That was my singing debut,” she said. This natural ear for music has continued with Vivien throughout her life, and culminates in the release of her five-track debut album ‘Lost in Time,’ which is available on online streaming platforms from today, Friday November 13. Vivien will be joined by a five-piece band as she performs her live album launch at Elixir Music Bar next

Thursday, November 19, from 7pm in what is sure to be a powerful performance. Tickets available at www. vivienaisi.com. After moving to Cairns ten years ago, Vivien has lent her vocal skills to various bands and recording artists and in 2015 she began showcasing her own original material in open mic nights around Cairns. In 2019 Vivien collaborated on Rap Artist MC Pyrit’s debut single ‘Dream Walkers,’ and then went on to record and release her first ever single and video titled ‘Lost in Time’ which has found its way onto various Spotify playlists including the Caribbean Broadcaster Network Spotify Playlists and Q Music’s Keep Listening Playlist .

After losing her job in tourism due to COVID-19, Vivien decided to make the most of her time in 2020 to work on recording her debut album with two tracks recorded at Coconut Groove studio in Kuranda and the other tracks by a producer in Rockhampton. Vivien is a versatile singer known for her distinct soulful voice and whether it’s a pop tune or a rock anthem she is sure to deliver an emotionally charged vocal performance. Motivated by her own journey as well as the stories of others, Vivien writes about her life experiences touching on the raw emotions of love, life and loss creating an experience she likes to refer to as “music for the soul.

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ENTERTAINMENT

Friday November 13, 2020

FRIDAY Barbary Coasters – Cairns Cruising Yacht Squadron, 3-6pm Leonora Jane – Blue Moon Grill, 5pm Andrea – Kewarra Beach Shack, 5:30pm Andy Brassett & Aurelle Brunjes – Tablelands Music Lovers, The Grand, 6pm Kim Settle & John Comrie – Atherton International Club, 6pm Normey Jay (hip hop / RnB) (ticketed) – Elixir Music Bar, 6pm & 10pm Silver Fox Jazz Band – Elixir Music Bar, 6pm Kaweyova Duo – Salt House, 6pm Zak Dylan - Trinity Beach Sports Club, 7:30-10:30pm Stan Stone – Central Hotel, Port Douglas 7-11pm Dr Elephant – The Jack, 8-11:30pm Grand Theft Audio – Gilligan’s, 8:30pm-12am Flavour – PJ O’Brien’s, 9pm Darin Ferguson – O’Donnell’s Irish Bar & Grill Palm Cove, 6-9pm Janna Mercedes – Rattle N Hum Cairns, 8:30-11:30pm

SATURDAY Nikki Doll – Stratford Deli Café, 2:30pm Andy Brassett – Barron Valley Hotel, Atherton, 7pm Kaweyova Band – The Pier Bar, 9pm Stan Stone – Boardwalk Social, 6-9pm Dr Elephant – The Red Beret, 8:30pm-12am MOEFO – Gilligan’s, 8:30pm12am Flavour – PJ O’Brien’s, 9pm Cam Kettle – O’Donnell’s Irish Bar & Grill Palm Cove, 6-9pm

SUNDAY Nikki Doll – Stratford Deli Café, 2:30pm Kaweyova Duo – Boardwalk Social, 6pm Eddie Skiba – Mountain View Hotel, 12-4pm Dr Elephant – Gilligan’s, 8:30pm-12am Cam Kettle - O’Donnell’s Irish Bar & Grill Palm Cove, 4-7pm. Tessa Divine – Elixir Music Bar, 7pm Miss Tee – Salthouse, 1pm Miss Tee – Noa, 4pm Dazz & The Boyzz – Beach Almond, Palm Cove 2-5:30pm

Tinderbox Single Launch, Gumpy Savidas (ticketed) – Elixir Music Bar 7pm Grand Theft Audio – The Jack

Are you a venue or an artist that wants to be listed in the Gig Guide? Please send your gigs to tanya@cairnslocalnews.com.au by Wednesday each week to be listed in Friday’s paper.

Cairns Local News

| 31

Andrea Allumay (Delores), Natalie Taylor (Pepper), Andy Bramble (Jack) and Liz Christensen (Bunny) rehearsing for Prospect Terrace premiere at CPAC on Friday November 20

Ready for Prospect Terrace Rehearsals are gaining momentum as local actors prepare for the premiere of ‘Prospect Terrace,’ written by local playwright Angela Murphy, at the Cairns Performing Arts Centre next Friday, November 20. Opening night is sold out for what is sure to be an entertaining show, but tickets are still available for three other shows from Friday 20 to Sunday 22 November. Book at ticketlink.com.au Prospect Terrace is about Pepper, whose once normal life is falling apart. Her fractious father Jack has taken

nasty to a new level, her spoilt younger sister Bunny dishes out unwanted social-worker advice and her far-away floundering brother Rob has continued his romance with the bottle. When 80-year-old Jack ends up in hospital, decisions need to be made about his future and the much-loved family home on Prospect Terrace. We watch as the family grapples with the past, as they rediscover forgotten truths, hidden treasures, and lost love. Playwright Angela Murphy, founder of Veranda The-

atre Co, finds her writing material in the everyday, telling relatable and contemporary stories using comedy and drama. While her goal is to entertain, she also wants people to leave the theatre thinking about some of the more serious issues she has raised. In addition to a number of plays, her other writing credits include film scripts, short stories, feature articles and providing professional writing services, workshops, and mentorships throughout North Queensland.

32 |

MIND GAMES

Cairns Local News

Friday November 13, 2020

What was the name of the first manned lunar landing mission in 1969?

What musical features ‘Some Enchanted Evening’ and ‘There Is Nothing Like A Dame’?

What Italian word for ‘Scratched Drawing’ can be found on walls all over the world?

The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles are named after artists from which period in history?

What instrument has been nicknamed the ‘Mississippi Saxaphone’?

What type of lighting means to manipulate someone by psychological means into doubting their own sanity?

Which film earned Peter Weir his first Academy Award nomination as Best Director?

What is the common name of the’ Auora Borealis’?

What is the painting ‘La Gioconda’ more usually known as?

What beginning with B, do Americans call hessian?

One and a half litres of champagne is known as a what?

What lake has the greatest surface area in the world?

What colour is the ‘sprinter’s jersey’ in the Tour de France?

What is the gemstone for September?

What kind of animal is the duck-billed platypus? Reptile, Amphibian, Bird, Mammal.

The Henley-on-Todd Regatta is held annually in which Australian town?

In which country was Rudyard Kipling born?

In what movie does Robin Williams play the role of a divorced father posing as an elderly British nanny to spend more time with his children?

The 1981 movie Raging Bull was about which sportstar?

Who had his first UK top 10 hit with ‘Wichita Lineman’?

According to Paul Kelly, how long does it take to get from St Kilda to Kings Cross?

Where on the body would you wear winklepickers?

What poisonous oily liquid occurs naturally in tobacco leaves?

In the Tolkien world, who or what is Fatty Lumpkin?

The ancient city of Carthage is located in what north African country?

Humans have what four types of teeth?

With which sports is Johnny Weissmuller associated with?

What influential novel, that was later adapted into a musical, featured protagonist Jean Valjean who was imprisoned for stealing a piece of bread?

25. Jake La Motta, 26. Feet - shoes, 27. Tunisia, 28. 21. Witness, 22. Burlap, 23. Green, 24. Alice Springs, pony, 18. Truth, 19. Big stick, 20. Italian Renaissance, Doubtfire, 16. 13 hours (on a bus), 17. Tom Bombadil’s The Mona Lisa, 13. Caspian Sea, 14. Mammal, 15. Mrs XI, 9. South Pacific, 10. Graffitti, 11. Gaslighting, 12. phire, 5. India, 6. Glenn Campbell, 7. Nicotine, 8. Apollo 1. Harmonica 2. Northern Lights, 3. Magnum, 4. Sap-

ANSWERS:

Complete the expression: Speak softly and carry a…

Incisors, canines, premolars and molars, 29. ASwimming

In 1984, does Winston work for the Ministry of Love, Peace or Truth?

and Water Polo, 30. Les Miserables.

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MIND GAMES

Friday November 13, 2020

Cairns Local News

SUDOKU #009 MEDIUM

Sudoku #009 EASY

Crossword #009 EASY

| 33

SUDOKU #009 HARD

WORD LIST

Wordsearch #009 EASY

Argo Babel Basoc Big Bobby Bounce Buried Cars Class Clerks Click Closer Crash Derailed Dogma

Drive E.T. Ghost Heat Hero Hook Hot Fuzz Junebug Juno Looper Mash Misery Norma Rae Once Pokemon

Ray Room Rush Saw Scary Movie She’s the Man Shine Shrek Tank The Omen Troy Up Volver Wall E Zoom

CAN YOU FIND 6 DIFFERENCES?

Down 1. a garment made of cotton or silk draped around the body (4) 2. commanding and self-confident; likely to be respected and obeyed (13) 3. a thing just coming into existence and beginning to display signs of future potential (7) 4. to take the place of (someone in a position of power) illegally (5) 5. the table of the chemical elements (8,5) 6. a long thin cigar (8) 12. light brown cane sugar coming originally and chiefly from Guyana (8) 14. when someone squats or crouches down low (7) 17. reluctant; unwilling (5) 20. informal British word for rubbish or nonsense (4)

Y o u

Across 7. an unfilled space; a gap (6) 8. childrens’ playground equipment (6) 9. one’s friends, acquaintances, and relations (4) 10. a leading dignitary of the Roman Catholic Church (8) 11. feeling or expressing deep affection, love, or admiration (7) 13. a person who avoids work or spends time in an aimless or lazy way (5) 15. strike with a firm blow (5) 16. a coat made of fur (3,4) 18. ornamental design in wood, typically openwork (8) 19. opposed to; against (4) 21. a former type of military commission conferred especially for outstanding service (6) 22. a liking for or pleasurable anticipation of something (6)

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My partner has this weird OCD where she arranges the dinner plates by the year they were bought. It’s an extremely rare dish-order. p a g e s

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STAR GUIDE AQUARIUS: Exercise extreme caution on Monday! You need to make sure you know what (and whom) you’re dealing with, especially in anything involving money or business. Look under the surface to find the facts. On Tuesday and Wednesday, try something new. Connect with someone you normally wouldn’t to get things started. Starting on Thursday and on into the weekend, you might feel yourself slowing down and getting lost in thought (especially about your career or other big-picture concerns). Give into the introversion and seek out some privacy. This weekend, you’ll find the most fun in big groups. PISCES: You don’t have to have all the facts first, do you? On Monday, don’t be afraid to act even if you don’t have all the answers. You don’t want to miss this opportunity, and you can always sort out the details later. On Tuesday and Wednesday, look for problems in a partnership. You can cut down on conflicts by settling debts and past issues. Out with the old, in with the new! Starting on Thursday and on into the weekend, you’ll need to make an extra effort to stand up for yourself -- especially in any big, legal or business matters. This weekend, trust in your own absurdly good luck.

GEMINI: This isn’t like you! You’re usually such a smooth-tongued communicator, but on Monday you’ll have to work extra hard to make yourself clear (especially with family members and others close to you). On Tuesday and Wednesday, you’ll get you’re your silver tongue back -- and others will line up just to get in on all the fun you’re having. Somebody else will pick up the ball. Starting on Thursday and on into the weekend, use your intelligence and insight to unearth hidden information. On Saturday and Sunday, you can guarantee a good time with some good old-fashioned teamwork.

LIBRA: Monday could present extraordinary opportunities for communication. You can learn a lot (and have a lot of fun) just talking to people, both friends and friends-to-be. Just make sure you listen as much as you speak. Enjoy the attention and be open to romance. Starting on Thursday and on into the weekend, your thoughts could wander to material things. Now is a good time to reassess your possessions and take stock of budgets and finances. This weekend, expect to explore. You’ll cover new ground and share new ideas.

CANCER: You’re stealing the spotlight on Monday. Don’t think others don’t notice -- and admire -- your better qualities, and don’t be surprised to find them flocking to your side to remind you. On Tuesday and Wednesday, you might find friction on the home front. You can still forge ahead on new projects, but try to listen to others (and maybe even include them in your plans) to soothe ruffled feelings. Don’t overreact, though -- just lay low and let this phase pass. This weekend, do something for yourself, and don’t feel like you need to apologize.

SCORPIO: It’s all about the details on Monday. Provided you can navigate the many events and plans, you’ll have a great day (and you might even learn a juicy secret or two). You’ll be less interested in hanging out with friends on Tuesday and Wednesday, but you can put that unusual introversion to good use. - Starting on Thursday and on into the weekend, you’ll be a people-magnet. Others will seem magically drawn you, as you radiate charisma and confidence. Later this weekend, forget yourself and get caught up in the moment.

ARIES: Consider scheduling some physical activity for Monday -- either a heavy workout or a long walk or run. You’re going to be inundated by details, and an outlet for all that mental frustration could make the day pass more easily. On Tuesday and Wednesday, put the other guy first -- you need to overcome your usual competitiveness (at least this once) if you want to get ahead. You’ve got a lot on your mind, and a subliminal tide is swelling to help you sort things out. On Saturday and Sunday, seek out adventure!

LEO: As you start the week, expect some unusual introversion on your part. Use Monday to take time and out and reassess the big picture. Now is a great time for mapping out long-term strategies and plans. On Tuesday and Wednesday, your confidence and charisma will have everyone falling all over themselves to agree with you -- and just to be with you! Let other sin on the fun you’re planning. There’s no need for paranoia, but you could definitely stand to get a better sense of the situation. This weekend, turn up the volume! Expect fiery feelings and well-nigh amazing adventure. VIRGO: You just couldn’t ask for a better Monday. (How often can you say that?) The week begins with you at your super-organized, over-achieving best. Whip all those schedules, budgets and pesky little details into shape, and you’ll be able to accomplish (or at least get a good start on) almost anything. Starting on Thursday and on into the weekend, expect your intellect and curiosity to get piqued -- now is a good time for heady thoughts and deep conversations. This weekend, try to go with the flow even if that means letting some of your responsibilities slip.

SAGITTARIUS: Monday could be a struggle, as you find yourself butting heads with authority figures and juggling way too many details. Take a deep breath and relax, though, because your week will get much better. Let your wishes be known. Starting on Thursday and on into the weekend, your mood might shift down a couple gears, into a more daydreamy state. Indulge your imagination and enjoy the introversion. This weekend, you’ll switch back to good old gregariousness, and you’ll have the most fun in big, galumphing groups. CAPRICORN: Engage your ambition on Monday. Map out big plans and take on daring ideas. You can accomplish a lot with the proper preparation. Tuesday and Wednesday are perfect days for starting new projects and tackling new challenges. Starting on Thursday and on into the weekend, you’ll have an easy time handling decisions and details. Friends who admire your detached, objective take on things will gladly give you any help you need. Trust your ability to persevere in accomplishing the seemingly impossible.

TAURUS: Monday should bring you nothing but fun and flirtation, as you’re surrounded by friends and radiating charm. The excitement continues into Tuesday and Wednesday, although probably of a more mundane variety. Starting on Thursday and on into the start of the weekend, expect your usual patience to be tested -- something has aroused your passions, and you may need to stop waiting and take action. On Saturday and Sunday, exercise caution taking risks. Things aren’t what they seem.

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Cairns Local News 13-Nov-20

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