Cairns Local News December 16 2022

National legal association condemns plan for new youth detention centre

A NEW youth detention centre in Cairns will not work to lower the rate of crime in the region, said the Australian Lawyers Alliance (ALA).

National criminal justice spokesperson at ALA Greg Barnes SC said research proved detention centres were ineffective and may cause recidivism.

“The evidence shows that locking up children is not effective. It does not have a deterrent effect, and it causes further trauma,” Mr Barns SC said.

“Evidence shows that teenagers detained within the justice system are more likely to re-offend, and many will fail to finish their education and find employment.

“This is a terrible outcome for the young people in the Cairns region and for the broader community in the long term.

“The focus on imprisonment also has an alarmingly disproportionate impact on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander

youth, who make up 65 per cent of the child prison population despite making up only six per cent of the population,” he said.

The ALA considers that detention of young people should only ever occur as an absolute last resort when there is no other option to ensure their safety and the safety of others in the community, and no child under 18 should be detained in a custody setting.

If a child under 18 needs to be detained they should be placed in a therapeutic setting that focuses on education and rehabilitation.

“We urge the Government to be bold and invest to alternate justice solutions. Queensland has an opportunity to lead the way in transitioning from a punitive system to a restorative system that rehabilitates young offenders,” Mr Barns SC said.

“It is critical that any plans to address

youth crime focus on rehabilitation and is developed in consultation with youth justice experts.

“We need to spend funds on providing the support and intervention young people need to keep them out of trouble in the future rather than investing in more prisons,” he said.

Protect yourself against meningococcal

TROPICAL Public Health Services (Cairns) is advising people to make sure their meningococcal vaccines are up to date in light of a death of an 18-year-old woman in NSW last week.

“In Australia, a free meningococcal ACWY vaccine is provided for children at 12 months of age and in Year 10 of secondary school (or aged 15 to 19 years),” Public Health Physician, Tropical Public Health Services Cairns, Dr Annie Preston Thomas, said.

“If children miss receiving the vaccine at school, it can be provided by a local GP.

“There is also a meningococcal B vaccine which is free for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander babies under two

years of age and people with specified medical risk conditions that make them more vulnerable to invasive meningococcal disease.”

There have been four confirmed cases of meningococcal disease in the Cairns region this year.

Meningococcal disease is caused by bacteria and is transmitted by close contact.

At any given time, meningococcal bacteria are carried by about 10 per cent of the population harmlessly at the back of the throat or nose.

The bacteria can be spread via droplets from the nose or throat during coughing and sneezing or close contact such as kissing.

Yarrabah Aboriginal Shire Council by-election declared

THE Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) has declared Hezron Murgha the successful candidate at the Yarrabah Aboriginal Shire Council councillor by-election.

Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen said Mr Murgha received 36 per cent of the votes, with Michael Sands receiving 27 per cent, Errol (Mala) Neal receiving 19 per cent and Gregory Fourmile 16 per cent.

“The official election day was Saturday, December 10, and while there are a small number of outstanding postal and in-person declaration votes, the remaining postal votes cannot change the result,” Mr Vidgen said.

“Nevertheless, any of those votes

received which have been formally cast will be added to the votes received by the relevant candidate.”

Mr Vidgen said 99 per cent of the ballot papers counted were formal or valid, which was a pleasing result, but that the low voter turnout was disappointing.

“Of the 1,399 enrolled electors in Yarrabah, only 658 voted in the byelection,” he said.

“137 Yarrabah residents cast their votes during the early voting period, with the remainder choosing to vote on election day.”

Nominations were open from the Notice of Election on Friday, November 11, until Monday, November 21.

Mr Vidgen said the by-election was

Meningococcal disease is a relatively rare illness; however, the disease can cause serious illness marked by a rapid deterioration.

The signs and symptoms of the illness include:

• rash

• vomiting, • fever, • headache, confusion, • stiff neck and • joint pain.

If concerned, people should seek immediate medical attention, as early treatment with antibiotics can be lifesaving.

Greg Barnes, from the Australian Lawyers Alliance

triggered by the resignation of Councillor David Baird on November 9, 2022.

The Yarrabah Aboriginal Shire Council by-election information, including all the results, is on the ECQ website at ecq.qld.gov.au.

Hezron Murgha is the new Yarrabah Aboriginal Shire Councillor

Summer holiday fun at Cairns Libraries

By Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

CAIRNS families can escape the summer heat at the Cairns Libraries and Council’s art galleries with a range of activities and workshops for the kiddies this holiday season.

Cairns Libraries is hosting activities throughout the region (excluding Sunday and Christmas closures) from Babinda to the northern beaches, with 19 different workshops and activities planned, including Dungeons and Dragons, coding and robotics, plenty of craft and art, stop motion animation sessions, circus, music-making, movies, a Sphero rally, drop in and build sessions and, of course – the Summer Reading Club.

Client Services Team Leader at Cairns Libraries Pauleen Francis said this year’s school holidays program had a lot in store for the children and their parents.

“The school holidays program looks amazing,” Ms Francis said.

“Our team has pulled together a diverse amount of activities for all ages.

“We have our usual craft workshops; we’ve got sessions where you can build with clay, do origami, card-making, even drawing in watercolour.

“And if you’re interested in circus skills, we’ve got a circus workshop, and we’re even having a sing-along to experience different types of music and instruments,” she said.

Other classic activities will be returning, like the coding and robotics sessions.

Ms Francis said the activities offered an opportunity to get

away from the sun while doing something fun and productive.

“We have something for everyone,” Ms Francis said.

“Come and enjoy the facilities, they’re all airconditioned, and there’s lots for the adults to do while the kids are doing their workshops.

“And we’ve got the summer reading club, so once the kids have finished with their sessions and mum and dad are ready to go home, they can grab the summer reading club, and they can continue reading through the summer holidays.”

All activities are free, with no bookings required.

“Go to the Cairns Libraries website and look at our ‘what’s on’ calendar to plan what you’re going to do over the school holidays,” Ms Francis said.

After two challenging years with the COVID-19 pandemic and many activities cancelled or gone online, the staff at the Cairns Libraries is excited to see the community return to these spaces.

“As we’re coming out of COVID, people are really starting to come back to the libraries and enjoying the programs we’re putting out,” Ms Francis said.

“There’ll be lots of people coming, but we have space for everyone.

“It’s great to see so many people engaged; we’ve all been through so much, and it’s really great to see that people are using the facilities.

“We have many services that people can use from home, but

it’s also amazing to see people face to face,” she said.

Ms Francis reminded the community to use the library facilities and all the fun free activities this summer.

“Come and have a look; go to our website or come into one of the spaces,” she said.

“Libraries are a lot different than what people remember; it’s a great space to be.

“We have community jigsaw puzzles; we have activities that people can come and do in the space but also lots of resources they can take home, like books, DVDs, magazines, telescopes and e-books and audiobooks.”

Find all the details on the library workshops at: https://bit.ly/3Lf3hHQ

The Court House Gallery in Abbott Street is also hosting activities throughout the school holidays, including ‘art buffet’ events for all ages and Green Screen Animation workshops for children over 10 years.

The three-hour animation workshops will be held on January 17-21.

• Online registration is essential through the event listings on the Court House website. https://www.cairns.qld.gov.au/experience-cairns/arts-and-culture/arts-venues/the-court-house or click https://bit.ly/3uOXKAu in our online edition.

Piper (11 months), sister Juniper Hiles (2 years) and Archie Stewart (5 Years)

Jaye Oldes from Uplift Music leads the Christmas Singalong at Manunda Library

Laura Ninness and baby Amelia Ninness (4 weeks)

Cassie and Heath McLaughlin (2 yrs)

Alessia Leeming (1 yr) and mum Hannah Wilson

Grandma Sue McMahon, with (left) Hazel (2 yrs), and Isla Jackson (2 yrs)

THE Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) and Indigenous Business Australia (IBA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) last week to improve the lifestyle and wellbeing of Torres Strait Islanders and Aboriginal people living in the Torres Strait region.

Under the MoU, IBA aims to assist and enhance the economic development opportunities of the people that reside in the Torres Strait islands.

Representatives from TSRA and IBA met in the Torres Strait on Thursday Island to review the agreement and next steps to achieve mutually beneficial outcomes for the community.

This agreement will enable further sharing of information, expertise and potential opportunities for economic infrastructure for the region.

IBA CEO Kirsty Moore explained that the MoU is about setting up a framework for ongoing discussions between both parties as the first step in aligning resources to support these communities.

“The Torres Strait is full of beautiful people with creative ideas for their own future.

Equipping them to make those decisions for themselves is essential,” Ms Moore said.

“This MoU means we’re able to maximise our resources to support the TSRA and the Torres Strait communities to achieve greater economic development and social growth.

“TSRA is well established in the region, and we look forward to working closely with them for results that benefit their communities.”

“The partnership between our agencies will allow us to share expertise, knowledge, ideas, and learnings to work more efficiently and effectively across our shared investment in improving the lifestyle and wellbeing of Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people in the Torres Strait region,” she said.

IBA Chair Eddie Fry noted the relationship with TSRA aligns with the long-term strategic objectives of IBA.

“IBA exists to support our First Nations people to buy a home, start or run a business, and invest for their future,” Mr Fry said.

“The partnership with TSRA builds on those objectives and supports our vision for a nation

where our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are economically independent.”

TSRA Chairperson Napau Pedro Stephen AM welcomed the MoU between the two organisations.

“Productive and innovative partnerships are critical towards a thriving economy in the Torres Strait,” Mr Stephen said.

“The TSRA is proud to partner with organisations who share our priorities to empower local people and help make dreams, such as owning a home or running a business, a reality for individuals and families.”

TSRA CEO Vonda Malone co-signed the MoU and said this signified the start of opening further opportunities within the region.

“We look forward to working together towards strong economic outcomes across the Torres Strait, including in the Northern Peninsula Area communities of Bamaga and Seisia,” Ms Malone said.

“This agreement between the TSRA and IBA has exciting potential to boost local businesses, create job opportunities and build workforce capacity.”

HMAS Wollongong decommissions in Cairns

THE Royal Australian Navy has decommissioned Armidale Class Patrol Boat HMAS ‘Wollongong’ at a ceremony in HMAS Cairns after 15 years of service.

Commander Australian Fleet, Rear Admiral Jonathan Earley, CSC, RAN, attended the ceremony and recognised the service of the Ship’s Company.

“HMAS Wollongong and the crews who have served in the vessel have made a significant contribution to our national interest,” Rear Admiral Earley said.

“These professional and dedicated men and women have protected our nation’s borders and offshore maritime interests from illegal activity.

“While today’s decommissioning is a necessary part of renewing our fleet, it is also an opportunity to honour

the contribution made by the crews who have served Australia in HMAS Wollongong,” he said.

“Navy is transitioning to 12 new Arafura Class Offshore Patrol Vessels. These boats have greater range and endurance than our existing boats.

“This will allow Navy to protect Australian interests over great distances and in more complex maritime environments.”

Commanding Officer

HMAS Wollongong, Lieutenant Commander Matthew Hams, said since commissioning in 2007, HMAS Wollongong has worked alongside Border Force, Australian Fisheries and the Australian Federal Police as part of border protection operations.

“Of note, HMAS Wollongong has steamed almost one

million kilometres throughout its service, and I commend the professionalism, dedication, and passion of the crews who have served,” Lieutenant Commander Hams said.

HMAS Wollongong has protected Australia against unauthorised entry, breaches of customs, fisheries protection and upheld immigration and drugs legislation.

Wollongong has served as part of Operations AUGURY (Philippines), SOLANIA (South-West Pacific) and APEC ASSIST (PNG) and the 2019 G20 Summit in Japan.

Approximately 30 crew of Wollongong recently marched through the streets of the boat’s namesake city, Wollongong, in the traditional last parade before decommissioning.

HMAS Wollongong III

TSRA CEO Vonda Malone and IBA CEO Kirsty Moore

Welcome from young dancers at Island Stars Art Gallery and Café

Anglicare North Queensland celebrates Yarrabah’s newest graduates

ANGLICARE North Queensland was delighted to celebrate the graduation of 10 hardworking participants last week- the first to graduate in Certificate III in Public Health through the Skilling Queenslanders for Work program.

Nine months of hard work has paid off for the participants from Yarrabah who came together with their friends and families to celebrate their achievement as a group, their dedication and success. And, of course, the support of their friends, family and community who accompanied them along the way.

Anglicare North Queensland is proud to have partnered with Skilling Queenslanders for Work and two critical organisations in Yarrabah - Wugu Nyambil and Gurriny Yealamucka Health Service. Both organisations were central to the successful outcomes of the participants.

Last week’s graduation was the first for Anglicare North Queensland in Certificate III in Primary Health, and the organisation congratulated the participants for its completion.

Anglicare North Queensland focused on launching the program in Yarrabah to support the skills shortage and the need for employment within the

community and its surroundings.

Due to the ongoing shortages in the Health Services, this certificate is an essential qualification for the Yarrabah community.

Anglicare NQL’s CEO, Liz Colahan, said it was an exciting moment for the organisation.

“It was such an honour to be part of a ground-breaking opportunity for members of the Yarrabah community,” Ms Colahan said.

“Study is hard at the best of times, let alone when it’s outside of where you live.

“I commend all the participants for

juggling the demands of everyday life with study and wish them all the best for the future.

“We are so grateful for the support of the three organisations and look forward to a long partnership,” she said.

North Queensland Ltd

is a not-for-profit organisation and registered charity that has delivered Skilling Queenslanders for Work programs within the communities of the Cairns Region for five years.

To find out more about Anglicare North Queensland, visit anglicarenq.org.au.

Winds of the North to Power Cairns to Net Zero

IN A leap towards achieving its commitment to net zero, Cairns Regional Council has signed a historic agreement with publicly owned CleanCo Queensland.

The agreement will see 80 of the Council’s largest facilities acquire 100 per cent of their electricity requirements from renewable sources from July 2024.

On December 6, Member for Cairns and Assistant Minister for Tourism Michael Healy said this was precisely the type of initiative that would push the Far North to net zero by 2050.

“By 2032, it means 70 per cent of Queensland’s energy supply will be renewable – taking real action on climate change and allowing more deals like this one to decarbonise Cairns and Far North Queensland,” Assistant Minister Healy said.

“Facilities to be powered under this agreement include Cairns Performing Arts Centre, Cairns City Library, Botanic Gardens Visitor

Centre, and the wastewater treatment plants.

“This deal is equivalent to the energy consumption of approximately 4,000 North Queensland households each year,” he said.

Most of the renewable energy that underpins the agreement will be supplied locally by the Kaban Green Energy Hub near Ravenshoe.

Cairns Mayor Bob Manning said the agreement with CleanCo is good news for the entire region as it supports local jobs in the renewable energy sector and reinforces the region’s clean and green reputation.

“As the guardians of two World Heritagelisted natural environments – the Great Barrier Reef and Wet Tropics Rainforest – it is our responsibility to do all we can to protect these assets and our lifestyle by taking action on climate change,” Cr Manning said.

“Renewable energy is critical to Council achieving its target of net zero emissions by 2030, and the deal with CleanCo puts us firmly on that path,” he said.

Minister for Energy, Renewables and Hydrogen Mick de Brenni said the Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan would be the biggest investment in clean energy and emissions reduction in Australia’s history.

“Far North Queensland has world-class renewable energy sources, and through publicly owned corporations like CleanCo, we are making those resources available to support our industries and communities to decarbonise,” the Minister said.

“Cairns Regional Council will be the first local government in Queensland to sign a clean energy supply agreement with CleanCo.”

CleanCo CEO Tom Metcalfe said CleanCo’s portfolio has a mix of flexible, low-emission firming capability mixed with wind and solar generation, allowing the company to offer reliable, competitively-priced clean energy to large-scale energy users.

“Our portfolio of low-emission and renew-

able energy generators allows us to deliver clean energy solutions that will help our customers thrive in a net zero future,” Mr Metcalfe said.

“We have a number of generating assets here in north Queensland, and I am proud that we can use these locally operated generators to provide locally sourced renewable energy for Cairns,” he said.

The agreement with CleanCo builds on Council’s existing three megawatts of on-site solar and provides Council with access to affordable renewable energy and stable pricing.

The agreement is also underpinned by renewable energy generated by the Western Downs Green Power Hub solar farm located west of Chinchilla.

CleanCo has offtake agreements with the Western Downs Green Power Hub and the Kaban Green Power Hub. Both projects are being delivered by Neoen and are expected to achieve full operations in the first half of 2023.

staff need a holiday, so we’ll be closing our office for Christmas to give them a break!

Anglicare NQ SQW Graduates Group - Cert 3 Primary Health

Anglicare

ON Friday, November 11, Babinda State School hosted the final event for the 22 school leavers of 2022 and celebrated their success as they prepare to embark on a new life journey.

Crowds of friends, family, students and staff of the school lined the street cheering on the graduates as they arrived at the Babinda RSL Hall.

The event was a massive success once again thanks to the hard work of the team of staff at Babinda State School.

All the attendees of the formal event looked wonderful

the

Hayden and Nikki

Martin and Reagan

Bella arriving

Hayden and Nikki arriving

Matty and Brooke (Matty School Captain)

Brendan and Kealy (Kealy School Captain)

Lauren and Katerina

Amy and Kyle

Emma, Bella and Tiarni

Riley and Davina

Another victim of climate change?

THE crown-of-thorns starfish (CoTS) could become another victim of climate change as its environment warms up and its coral prey bleaches and dies.

James Cook University PhD student Bethan Lang led a study of how young CoTS fared as the water temperature increased.

Earlier studies have shown that CoTS, native marine animals, are a major cause of coral loss on the Great Barrier Reef.

“In an earlier study, I found a high mortality rate in adult CoTS when the water temperature reached 32°C,” Ms Lang said.

“In these experiments, I wanted to learn more about how a warming ocean could affect their earlier life stages.”

Ms Lang reared CoTS larvae in the National Sea Simulator at the Australian Institute of Marine Science and conducted her experiments at the ARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies at JCU.

Early in their development, as planktonic larvae, the CoTs need to attach to the coralline algae that encrust the surface of the Reef.

“That’s their preferred settlement substrate, and we observed that the attachment process

was relatively unaffected by temperatures up to 34°C,” Ms Lang said.

“It was at the next stage where rising temperatures were clearly an issue.

“The transformation of larval CoTS to juveniles and the early juveniles’ survival was much lower at temperatures of 30 to 32°C. Also, at 32°C, the coralline algae was bleaching, making it a less suitable base.”

Temperatures between 30 and 32°C are already experienced on the Great Barrier Reef. Marine heatwaves are increasing in frequency and intensity on the Reef, with four major coral bleaching events observed since 2016.

“Our observations contribute to the mounting body of evidence that suggests we may see fewer or less severe CoTS population outbreaks in a warmer ocean,” Ms Lang said.

“That might sound like good news for the Reef, but we could see a shift in the distribution of CoTS populations, with the starfish posing a greater threat to cooler, more southerly reefs.

“We hope this study will inform CoTS surveillance and control, helping to target efforts to where they are most needed as conditions change.”

Fee-Free TAFE in

THE Australian and Queensland Governments will take immediate action to deliver more Fee-Free TAFE and vocational education places for Queenslanders in 2023.

This ground-breaking 12-month Skills Agreement will inject more than $200 million into the Queensland skills and training sector to support access to over 37,000 Fee-Free TAFE and vocational education and training (VET) places in 2023.

Training through Fee-Free TAFE will help drive enrolments in sectors with recognised skills shortages by matching training identified through the skills priority list.

Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuck said this agreement was critical in supporting future jobs.

“This $200 million partnership, supporting 37,000 Fee-Free TAFE and vocational education and training places next year, is critical to supporting our future workforce,” the Premier said.

“Providing the skills and training for Queenslanders not only enriches students’ lives and employment prospects but also fuels the state’s economy through a highly trained workforce.

“Fee-Free TAFE is making sure employers have access to the skilled workforce they need and that Queenslanders have the skills they need to take up the opportunities that are there for those good jobs.”

Fee-Free TAFE in Queensland comes at a crucial time as the State works on strengthening and growing the regional workforce, offering free access to a range of qualifications to support local industry needs, including the Certificate III in Hospitality, Certificate III in Conservation and Ecosystem Management and the Certificate IV in Community Services.

VET in Queensland is demand-driven, meaning students can enrol in qualifications that best suit them and their local job market.

Based on historical enrolments, it is estimated there will be approximately 10,300 Fee-Free places in the care sector, 12,000 places aligned to the technology and digital sectors, 1,600 places in hospitality and tourism, 5,300 places in construction, 900 places in agriculture and 6,900 places in sovereign capability including the manufacturing sector.

Minister for Skills and Training Brendan O’Connor said the agreement would help the skills shortage.

“This agreement with Queensland is about securing a more robust economy and tackling one of our greatest economic challenges in decades, the lack of skilled workers,” Minister O’Connor said.

“Whether it’s in the care sector, agriculture, hospitality and tourism, construction, technology, or a need for sovereign capability in manufacturing,

we need to deliver these skills at a time of acute skills shortages.

“We believe everyone deserves access to training, and this agreement will increase opportunities and workforce participation of priority groups, including First Nations Australians, young people (17-24), people out of work or receiving income support, unpaid carers, women undertaking study in non-traditional fields, people with disability and certain categories of visa holders.”

TAFE Queensland and Central Queensland University will deliver Fee-Free TAFE in Queensland. Under the Agreement, $9.68 million will be provided, in matched funding, to TAFE Queensland and Central Queensland University to enable them to provide wraparound support to participating students, including the priority cohorts.

The 12-month Skills agreement is the first stage of delivering on the skills commitments in the Australian Government’s Made in Australia Skills Plan.

The agreement includes an Australian Government commitment of $5.8 million to improve TAFE facilities in Queensland immediately, and $930,000 for essential VET data infrastructure reform.

All Governments have also agreed to a vision and guiding principles for longer-term VET reform to commence in 2024.

Bethan Lang and CoTS

Gifts from Gordonvale

By Maria Larkins

Take

Against the backdrop of Walsh’s Pyramid, there is a wonderful town to explore with all kinds of interesting shops and things to do.

First stop Norman Street. Pop into Miss Marci boutique and have a look at their bright and breezy range of summer dresses, tops, pants, jeans and accessories. There are also some great gift ideas such as the “Smelly Balls” sets and fragrant oils; Pink Nade designer earrings; Suzy lipsticks; Splosh mugs, grazing boards, dog tags, or travel boards; Black Books herbal and specialty teas; and Misty’s range of delicious salted caramels. Nearby, the Fickle Flower is sure to impress with a huge range of unusual gifts as well as fresh and artificial flowers, potted succulents and other plants. They also offer deluxe gift wrapping.

Why not explore Gordonvale the environmentally friendly way with a vehicle from Southside G2E E-Scooter and E-Bike Hire.

Pop along to Shop A/74 Norman Street and select your preferred mode of transport and venture to the numerous sights around town such as Norman Park, Mulgrave Central Sugar Mill, Mulgrave Settlers Museum, and the numerous cycle paths out of town.

If you decide the village vibe that Gordonvale has to offer is too enticing why not consider making Gordonvale your home. Cairns Property Office has all the latest listings for sale and rent of residential and commercial properties in the region.

Anyone requiring specialized furniture for their new home need not go any further than Peak Mobility and Rehab. The locally owned and operated company offers a full range of furniture, daily living aids, in addition to mobility products such as walking aids, wheelchairs, and mobility scooters.

Spotlight on Gordonvale

THANKS to the Mayor’s Xmas Cheer Appeal for the Xmas food hamper that made me smile, so Merry Xmas to the readers of Cairns Local News & stay safe, Janelle, Woree

PARKING FEE INCREASE

Parking fees will increase by 10c an hour from Wednesday 3 January to $2.10 an hour. Centre median parking across the CBD remains free, but time limited.

Parking is also free after 2pm on Saturday and all-day Sunday, with the exception of the Southern Esplanade car park (Lagoon car park). Residents are reminded parking is always free on all public holidays.

Busting ghost nets haunting the Great Barrier Reef

Artists, writers and performers share in funding

NORTHSITE Contemporary Arts, JUTE Theatre Company and ARC Disability Services are among the successful applicants for this year’s Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) Major Round One.

Seven local community organisations, artists and writers, including India Collins, Tegan Coster and Aaron James Lee and Avril Duck, will also share in almost $62,000 from the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) program.

Among the successful projects was Spotfire Artist Camp: ‘Friday Frenzy’, an Indigenous emerging artist program to take place at NorthSite Art Studios, which will involve professional tutelage in a safe and accessible purpose-built studio, enabling artists to plan, develop and produce prints on paper and fabric.

ARC Disability Services Inc received $6,900 to assist in the publication and launch of a collection of illustrated children’s books and adapt the screenplay Beyond the Waves into a children’s book.

The latest round of funding will also support Taking TRUE FRIENDS on Tour! – a six-week, inclusive theatre workshop with community actors written by Aaron Lee and directed by Avril Duck.

Delivered as a partnership between Arts Queensland (State Government) and Cairns Regional Council, RADF promotes the role and value of arts, culture and heritage in the community as drivers of diversity and inclusiveness.

Mayor Bob Manning said the latest round of funding would assist a broad array of creative projects that will contribute to the development of visual arts, heritage preservation and performing arts in the region.

“Hundreds of local projects have over the years been assisted by RADF grants, which deliver positive outcomes for communities across the region,” Cr Manning said.

“These successful projects represent a chance for people to engage with the vibrancy and depth of our arts community.”

Minister for the Arts Leeanne Enoch said as part of this thriving, long-term collaboration; the Queensland Government will provide $2.13 million for RADF 2022–2023 to a total of 59 local councils, who will contribute a co-investment amount of over $1.9 million.

“Established in 1991, RADF is a longstanding success story between the Queensland Government and regional councils, enabling local artists and arts workers to tell their rich and unique stories, boosting regional employment opportunities and other positive economic outcomes,” Minister Enoch said.

“For 31 years, RADF has provided a legacy of creating new art and cultural experiences for Queensland audiences and communities, and a platform for professional development and growth across the regional arts sector.”

For more information on RADF, visit Cairns Regional Council’s website.

RADF 2022/23 Major Round One Successful Applicants:

Grant Recipient Grant Amount Project Description

WITH giant ghost nets wreaking havoc on marine life and corals around the Great Barrier Reef, charity Tangaroa Blue Foundation has partnered with international technology company Satlink to launch a world-first program that uses satellite technology to tag and track ghost nets while retrieval teams are mobilised to remove them.

Satlink’s “Project ReCon” will allow for the repurposing of recovered echosounder buoys to track ghost nets entering the Great Barrier Reef and will be integrated into Tangaroa Blue Foundation’s ReefClean project.

“With our teams looking for ways to reuse and recycle international commercial fishing echosounder buoys retrieved from beach clean-ups along the Reef, it was very much a case of who you gonna call,” CEO of Tangaroa Blue Foundation, Heidi Tait, said.

“Turns out, Satlink was the ghost net buster we needed to speak with to be able to repurpose the buoys and divert them from landfill,” Ms Tait said.

Tangaroa Blue was the perfect partner to get Project ReCon off the ground, starting in Australia along the Great Barrier Reef early next year and then rolling out around Australia through the Australian Marine Debris Initiative (AMDI) network.

“By working with international commercial fishing fleet partners, we can have the buoys recovered by Tangaroa Blue and their AMDI partners tested and reassigned to track ghost nets along the Reef,” Satlink’s Head of Science & Sustainability, Kathryn Gaviria, said.

“The technology also allows for virtual fences to be put around reefs providing notifications before nets impact critically sensitive areas,” Ms Gaviria said.

The Special Envoy for the Great Barrier Reef and Labor Senator for Queensland, Nita Green, has welcomed the project.

“This exciting new project by the Tangaroa Blue Foundation is a further step in the right direction to one day ensuring

Food hampers deliver Christmas spirit

Christmas will be a little brighter for hundreds of local families, thanks to the generosity of the Cairns community. More than 100 volunteers came together at Fred Moule Pavilion at the Cairns Showgroundson Wednesday to pack hampers and spread a little Christmas cheer.

The 2022 Mayor’s Christmas Cheer Appeal raised over $60,000 this year to provide 750 food hampers to families, the elderly, carers and other residents who might otherwise go without on Christmas Day.

Mayor Bob Manning said residents dug deep to help their neighbours in need every year. “The Christmas season is all about giving and there are so many generous people in our community who put this into practice. A very special thanks to all the volunteers who helped to prepare, pack and deliver hampers.”

This year’s volunteer contingent included many teenagers who packed hampers with friends, as well as volunteers from Rotary, Telstra, HMAS Cairns and Northern Pride.

Pictured: Mayor Bob Manning, Chevelle Marshall from HMAS Cairns, Margaret Milutinovic & Jasmine Mola from Rotary.

our waters are free from ghost nets. Well done to everyone involved,” Senator Green said.

As part of the program, Tangaroa Blue’s AMDI partners, which include Indigenous Rangers, tourism operators and commercial vessels, will deploy the buoys as part of their monitoring work.

“With lost or discarded ghost nets the size of football fields currently drifting unsupervised across the Great Barrier Reef, they are causing untold damage to marine life and fragile corals as they become entangled on reefs”, Ms Tait said.

“Having the buoys distributed along the Great Barrier Reef with AMDI partners means that if a ghost net can’t be removed, a buoy can be immediately attached and the net’s movement tracked in real-time by satellite until a retrieval team is mobilised.”

Implementing Project ReCon along the Reef will help reduce technological waste, reduce impacts on coastal environments and benefit the local Australian communities that find the echosounder buoys.

Aaron James Lee and Avril Duck $9,386.00 Taking TRUE FRIENDS on Tour! – a six-week, inclusive theatre workshop with community actors.

ARC Disability Services Inc (Karen Jackson and Sheridan Lawton)

$6,900.00

ARC Creative Ensemble Book Launch & Exhibition –the publication and launch of a collection of illustrated children’s books and the adaptation of their screenplay ‘Beyond the Waves’ into a children’s book.

Dennis Mcintosh $9,050.00 Creative Development: Who Took The Fall - The West Gate Bridge Catastrophe – A five-day creative development at Bulmba-Ja Arts Centre, including a public showcase of a play about the collapse of the West Gate Bridge.

India Collins $9,860.00 e VULVA lution - site-specific, multisensory installation developed in partnership with NorthSite Contemporary Arts and Situate Art in Festivals (Tasmania). A social practice extension weaving and reflecting the contributions of women’s textile objects and life experiences.

JUTE Theatre Company (Kathryn Ash)

NorthSite Contemporary Arts Ltd

$6,560.00 Build Back Better Theatre Skills Development Program - Artists’ Support Component - cross-regional theatre skills development and networking program designed to build capacity for our regional theatre sector.

$10,000.00

Tegan Koster $10,000.00

TOTAL FUNDED $61,756

Spotfire Artist Camp: ‘Friday Frenzy’ at NorthSite Art Studios - Indigenous emerging artist program, with professional tutelage in a safe and accessible purposebuilt studio, enabling artists to plan, develop and produce prints on paper and fabric.

Tegan Koster Project ‘SHAPES’ - The Tegan Koster Project - combines theatre, performance and music to create a new body of work, realised through the development of a new live performance show, music videos and gallery-based audio/video artworks.

Holiday opening hours

Council’s Spence Street Customer Service Centre will close at 4.30pm on Friday 23 December 2022 and reopen for business as usual at 8:30am on Tuesday 3 January 2023. For after hours or emergencies 24/7, please call 1300 69 22 47.

Kerbside bin collection will operate as usual. See Council’s website for a full list of Christmas operating hours.

Improvement works

Spence St, Cairns CBD: Bus stop upgrade opposite Cairns Central.Temporary bus stop relocation.

Oleander St, Holloways Beach: Water main and pavement renewal between Cassia St and Caribbean St. Temporary lane / road closures.

For a full list of works visit our website.

Kids encouraged to take

I

take great pleasure in writing positive stories about the Douglas Shire. Ever so occasionally, this has to be spoilt by the mindless activities of a very small minority of the general public. You may remember my Dunny Debacle Column nearly a couple of years ago, where we discovered fully grown adults unable to use local public toilets in a normal manner.

My most recent disappointment and as I say there are not many, was the damage caused by young motorcyclists in Hutchins Park, located in Port Douglas.

The group clearly decided to use this family facility as a race track and an opportunity to burn some rubber. Apart from the noise nuisance at 9pm a couple of Wednesdays ago, the mess found by genuine park users the next day was gutting. Both dog walkers and families that enjoy the BBQ and playground area woke up to a muddy mess.

Local Police are aware of the situation, but with low resources it is impossible to monitor

the park all of the time and often the culprits are too young to be charged anyway.

I asked Douglas Shire Mayor Michael Kerr for his thoughts.

“Motorbikes in parks has been an ongoing issue in a number of local areas, including Hutchings Park. Vandalism is source of frustration for Douglas Shire Council workers who take pride in maintaining the region’s parks and gardens to a high standard. Our maintenance crews have spent too much time repairing vandalism at local parks and playgrounds this year. Council encourages members of the public to report vandalism to Policelink on 131 444” he said.

My thoughts are that the parents need to step up and take some responsibility for their youngsters. They need to question what they are up to of an evening and certainly not be funding the fuel for machines that are spoiling our communities. If you see any of this behavior, please report it!

the

SUMMER READING CHALLENGE!

I MUST admit, as a child, I always found reading a bit of a chore. Just like modern day schools, however, things have changed and kids generally find these activities more fun than in the past.

It was just last year when the Summer Reading Club restarted after a seven year hiatus. The good news is that it is back again this summer, so I couldn’t resist going along to the Launch Party earlier this week.

Held at the fabulous Mossman Library on Tuesday morning, attendees were able to find out exactly why the library team are so keen to encourage youngsters, age five plus, to take the ‘Summer Reading Challenge’.

The Summer Reading Club is a fun, free program delivered online and in public libraries across Queensland to encourage children to keep reading through the summer!

The interactive program encourages children to read by completing challenges and earning badges. They will hopefully discover new favourite books and share their creativity by leaving book reviews and gallery posts.

Last Tuesday’s Summer Reading Club Launch also involved music, games, snacks and the opportunity to sign up to the Summer Reading Club, so a fun time was had by all.

If you couldn’t get to the Launch Party you can still get involved in the Summer Reading Club by contacting Mossman Library.

I’m off to find a good paperback, so for now it’s Gazza signing out!

Send your stories to gazza@cairnslocalnews.com.au

Motorbike tracks recently left at Hutchins Park Port Douglas

The Mossman Library team entertaining young guests at their Summer Reading Club launch party

The

on

era for the Turners family

We invite the community into our store as we celebrate the last lap around the sun for our 86th year. Come on in, say hello to our friendly faces many of whom will retire on the final day. It’s a new era for our family and we are proud to have provided ongoing service, sales and friendships in this community for well over eight decades and three generations.

One Coast - Cassowary Coast

PEDALS AT THE READY FOR PUMP TRACK DESIGN

WARRINA Lakes Pump Track draft designs have been unveiled today, with the community encouraged to view and have their say on the proposed design.

The next step in delivering Stage One of the Warrina Lakes Parklands master plan is to design, construct and build a pump track for the community.

Cassowary Coast Regional Councillor Nick Pervan said pump tracks are a fun and exciting riding space that fosters important skill-building for all ages.

“Earlier this year, Council unveiled the first pump track on the Cassowary Coast in Cardwell. Feedback from the community has been overwhelmingly positive and it has been great to see the continued high use of the track.

“The Warrina Lakes pump track will build on the excitement by offering an alternative pump track for residents and visitors and encourage increased patronage of the Lakes.”

Community feedback will play an important part in shaping the final design. Warrina Lakes Information Sessions will be held for anyone who would like to view the proposed design in person, ask questions and provide feedback.

• Innisfail Lioness Market, ANZAC Memorial Park, Innisfail.

Saturday 17 December 2022

9:00am- 12:00pm

• Innisfail Library, 49 Rankin Street, Innisfail Thursday 12 January 2023

9:30am- 11:30am

Alternatively, the community can visit Council’s Your Say platform, to view the design and provide feedback online. The Your Say survey opens Friday 9 December 2022 and will close Sunday 15 January 2023. An update will be provided to the community once consultation closes.

Councillor Pervan said that the current draft design has two components to the pump track. A beginner’s pump track has been proposed, catering for less experienced riders. The beginner’s track enables riders to get a feel for how a pump track works and build their skills before progressing to the larger track. We are seeking feedback from the community if this is an addition that they would like to see and depending on feedback provided will reassess the design against available budget.

“The larger section of the pump track has been designed for intermediate/advanced users, with a range of jumps, slopes and curves that challenge riders to develop and build new skills.

“For our residents and visitors who haven’t used a pump track before; a pump track is a small circuit with feature like rollers and berms that you can ride continuously without pedaling. Your speed along

the pump track is dependent on your ability to gain momentum by “pumping” the tight terrain transitions of the track.”

Daniel Snelgrove, Managing Director, World Trail said that the Warrina Lakes asphalt pump track has been designed to cater for all user groups, ages and abilities. The track incorporates a range of customised features including rollers, doubles, dragonbacks, berms and transitions and well as an advance line for the more experienced users.

“All features are rollable thus providing a safe, progressive training ground that is fun for everyone to ride. This unique design also offers a separate beginner pump track to ensure the young kids can build their skills before tackling the more advance pump features.”

Those unable to provide feedback face to face are encouraged to have their say by visiting yoursay.cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au/warrina-lakespump-track, by calling 1300 763 903 or emailing enquiries@cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au. Feedback is now open until Sunday 15 January 2023. Council is committed to keeping the community informed during project milestones. Updates will be sent out via email to interested stakeholders throughout the project. To join this mailing list, please visit yoursay. cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au/warrina-lakes-pumptrack to register your interest.

Aerial View Warrina Lakes, Innisfail

Draft Warrina Lakes pump track design

Coast - Cassowary Coast

WATER INDUSTRY FNQ INTEREST DAY RAISES FUNDS FOR LOCAL REFUGE

CASSOWARY Coast Paws and Claws have been the recipients of $2,400 thanks to funds raised at the Water Industry Operators Australia (WIOA) industry event.

The WIOA held its eighth WIOA Far North Queensland Interest Day and TRILITY Charity Bowls Day. The Interest Days have become an important way for local councils and other industry operators to network and discuss industry-leading processes, innovations and technologies.

Throughout the day, several raffles were held which resulted in a donation of $2,400 by WIOA to a local charity of choice. Due to the rotating system of selection, Cassowary Coast Regional Council was given the opportunity to choose a local charity. Council is pleased to donate the full amount of $2,400 to Cassowary Coast Paws and Claws to assist them in purchasing much needed supplies for the busy Christmas season when refuges are often stretched to and beyond their limits.

Cassowary Coast Regional Council Mayor Mark Nolan is pleased to see the donation go to such a vital charity in the community.

Cassowary Coast Paws and Claws have overcome their challenges for the benefit of giving back to our community and animals in need.

“In previous years, Council supported the reopening of the refuge centre after Cyclone Larry, resourcing grants for a new toilet block.

“The shelter was also renamed following community feedback, which suggested that the facility be renamed to reflect the refuge serving the whole Cassowary Coast region.

“The animals at the shelter are cared for by an incredible team of staff, who often do this work with such minimal resources. Every dollar will assist their work, especially around such a busy time of year,” said Mayor Nolan.

Council would like to thank all involved in the WIOA Interest Day and those who helped raise funds for this worthy cause.

For more information regarding Cassowary Coast Paws and Claws facility please visit Cassowary Coast Paws & Claws Inc Facebook Page.

COMMUNITY VISION FOR MISSION BEACH TOWN CENTRE ADOPTED

AT the Local Government Meeting on 15 December 2022, Council endorsed the Concept Designs for the Mission Beach Town Centre Revitalisation Project.

The Mission Beach Strategic Master Plan underwent both an initial and draft consultation phase in 2018, with common themes and suggestions collated from the feedback to assist with developing the final Mission Beach Strategic Master Plan.

In 2022, Council endorsed the Communication and Engagement for the Mission Beach Town Centre Revitalisation Project which commenced a number of key engagement practices to ensure Council can deliver on a project that has a shared vision with the community.

Across September and October, Council undertook two phases of community engagement on the Concept Design with over 92 stakeholder interactions during the concept design phase, one Councillor briefing, three community reference group meetings, one community pop-up with 45 people in attendance, five face-to face meetings, and one online meeting.

Division Three Councillor, Trudy Tschui, said it was great to see the community so involved in the engagement process and the feedback and recommendations provided are understood by Council and will be reflected in the detailed design.

“Council has reviewed key considerations and recommendations from the community engagement and are satisfied that these have been considered in the final concept

and will be resolved through the detailed design.

“Council aims to deliver a vibrant, livable and dynamic town centre, with a unique laid back atmosphere, showcasing the natural environment, and through the engagement carried out now have an indepth understanding of what this means for community.

“The Community and Stakeholder Reference Group provided a number of recommendations for Council’s consideration, including environmental matters (plant species), structure design, form and placement, parking, amenity accesses and initiatives that will support businesses during the construction phase.

“The next phase will be detailed design. Council will provide the detail to address the community’s aspirations as highlighted in the concept design phase.

“Council would like to thank all those who have participated during both phases of engagement.

“Your feedback and time is appreciated and will strengthen the final outcome of this project,” said Councillor Tschui.

Council will look to present the detailed design in April 2023 and will keep the community updated during this process.

To view the full engagement report from both stage one and stage two of consultation or view the final concept designs, please visit: yoursay.cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au/missionbeach-town-centre-revitalisation-project.

CASSOWARY COAST REGIONAL COUNCIL CHRISTMAS CLOSURES

COUNCIL Customer Service Centres, Libraries and Depots will be closed from Friday 23 December, 2022 and will re-open with regular hours on Tuesday 3 January 2023.

Innisfail Library will close a day earlier on Thursday 22 December for collection maintenance. During Council’s Christmas closure please direct all calls to 1300 763 903.

If your emergency is potentially life threatening, please call 000.

Alternatively, you can visit Council’s

website www.cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au or utilise the Snap, Send, Solve app to lodge any non-urgent items. Kerbside rubbish collection will operate as per normal collection days.

Cassowary Coast Waste Transfer Stations Christmas Operating hours can be found by visiting www.cassowarycoast.qld. gov.au/transfer-stations.

Cassowary Coast Regional Council Team Members and Councillors would like to wish all in the community a safe and joyous Christmas season.

Mayor Mark Nolan and Council Water Manager present a cheque to Cassowary Coast Paws and Claws

One Coast - Cassowary Coast

OPEN SPACE STRATEGY FEEDBACK OPPORTUNITY

TO inform future management and investment in Cassowary Coast Parks and Reserves, Council is seeking feedback on Phase One of the development of the Cassowary Coast Open Space Strategy.

Across the Cassowary Coast, Council currently manages 315 open spaces, all with varying degrees of service and maintenance. The total area of open spaces equates to 17Ha of land per 1,000 residents. The industry recommended standard is currently 5Ha per 1,000 people.

Council is developing an Open Space Strategy to guide the planning, management and resourcing approach which suits our community needs.

Phase One of the development of Council’s Open Space Strategy is to undertake community consultation regarding the proposed classification framework for our parks and reserves as outlined within the Open Space Classification and Service Level document.

Portfolio Holder, Mayor Mark Nolan said consultation is the first step to ensuring Council creates the correct classification and hierarchy for our open spaces.

“Currently, the community’s open spaces fall under a wide variety of categories with an equally diverse level of embellishments.

“Through the consultation stage, Council wishes to create a uniformed approach, ensuring parks are categorised correctly and consistently, and what facilities or park features (termed embellishments) should be provided in these spaces.

“Council also aims to create a distinct framework that ensures the level of services provided, is the same for each category of park.

“By creating an agreed holistic strategy, Council will address an identified oversupply of open space and undersupply of quality regional parks; and provide clear guidance on management, future investment and replacement of aging assets,” said Councillor Nolan.

INNISFAIL CBD REVITALISATION STAKEHOLDER REFERENCE GROUP

CASSOWARY Coast Regional Council is seeking expressions of interest from the community to be a part of the Innisfail CBD Revitalisation Stakeholder Reference Group.

The purpose of the Reference Group is to create an opportunity for stakeholders and community to be regularly informed, engaged and consulted by Council on the concept designs and progress of the project, and increase awareness amongst the community of the project.

To

read the terms of reference

The Reference Group is one phase of the planned engagement and is a vital method to ensure Council is connecting with key stakeholders across various platforms.

Expressions of interest are open to community members wishing to join the group which will include representation from Council, local business owners and operators, traditional owners and property owners.

Expressions of interest are open until 31 January 2023.

MAYOR’S CHRISTMAS MESSAGE TO COMMUNITY

THROUGHOUT this year, I have been continually humbled by the passion and generosity of our community. I want to thank each person for their individual contributions - volunteering, running or supporting small businesses, providing feedback, participating in community groups, events or sporting associations, all contribute and enhance our region’s diverse community life.

For Council, it has been a particularly busy twelve months as we embarked on our largest Community Scorecard, to ensure future projects align with community aspirations and priorities, and Council’s activities and services. The community voice was captured, and from there, an action plan was developed to address the top six priority goals of the community.

Council has continued to focus on our investment into capital works including road upgrades and renewals, drainage and bridges, and continued investment into water and sewerage infrastructure. Creating opportunities for Economic Development has guided the creation of the Economic Development Advisory Committee and the Small Business Friendly Charter in conjunction with the Department of Employment, Small Business and Training which has demonstrated Council’s commitment to supporting economic growth and invest-

ment in our region.

In addition, Council has made progress on key projects including successfully securing funding for the Mission Beach Town Centre Revitalisation project, facilitating community consultation and appointing a Community Stakeholder Reference Group to provide a representative voice throughout the final design and construction phase. Council is also progressing the Normalisation of Port Hinchinbrook with several important rehabilitation projects across the suburb taking place as well as progressing the design and construction of the Cardwell Sewage Treatment Plant and the dredging of One Mile Creek. The completion of the Cardwell Pump Track was strongly driven by community and is part of a larger project which aims to have Cardwell recognised as a leading mountain bike trail destination. Innisfail is also set to receive their own Pump Track at Warrina Lakes with a draft concept out to the community for consultation. To ensure our community has remained active and involved in decision making, the Your Say Cassowary Coast platform was launched with Dog Off-Leash trial areas, Unsealed Road Improvement Plan, Banfield Parade and Mission Beach Town Centre Revitalisation Project - all projects which the community has provided essential feedback on.

I would like to acknowledge and thank Council’s team who are also preparing for what will be another busy year in 2023, delivering on our Capital Works Program and Operational Plan Outcomes. We will continue to improve our engagement with community and stakeholders to address our community’s priorities articulated through the Community Scorecard and Action Plan.

On behalf of Councillors and Staff I hope

you have an enjoyable and safe festive season, look after one another, and don’t forget to take time to explore our beautiful Cassowary Coast region. This time of year can also be challenging for some so I would encourage those who can, to give a small contribution to the Community Christmas Appeal.

Planning and Regional Development

Merry Christmas from all Councillors and CCRC team members.

REDUCE WASTE THIS FESTIVE SEASON

THE festive season can be an expensive time of year, but it doesn’t have to involve wasting money through food waste. Household food waste in Australia peaks in December. With some simple planning you can avoid wastage, saving money and the environment.

Shop, serve and store food mindfully this festive season by following these simple tips:

• Plan meals before you shop and use a shopping list.

• Check your portions and prepare the right amount.

• Let your guests serve themselves.

• Ask your guests to BYO food containers for leftovers.

• Use any leftovers.

• Freeze excess food.

For more tips and tricks on how to reduce food waste, save money and the environment check out the Love Food Hate Waste and OzHarvest Use It Up websites.

THANK YOU TO OUR DONORS

A BIG thank you to Russell Sign & Print Cassowary Coast and Freemasons Innisfail for their generous donations to the Community Christmas Appeal.

Every cent from the appeal will be returned back into supporting the community with a variety of local charities and organisations distributing the donations to the genuinely-disadvantaged in our community.

To make your donation, visit or call our Customer Service Centres on 1300 763 903.

For full details on how you can help those in need, yoursay.cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au/christmas-appeal

Cassowary Coast Libraries comprises of four branches located at Cardwell, Innisfail, Tully and Mission Beach. For locations, opening times or general enquiries, please call 1300 366 616 or visit www.cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au/libraries

Waste Transfer Stations locations and opening hours can be found by visiting: www.cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au/transfer-stations

FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY

Vivien Aisi - Boardwalk

Social by Crystalbrook, 4:00pm

Keith Eales - Cairns Cruising Yacht Squadron, 4:00pm

Christina Ukulele - Bailey by Crystalbrook, 5:00pm

Pete Bennett - Ten06 Café Bar, 5:30pm

Barbary CoastersO’Donnells Palm Cove, 6:00pm

The Silver Foxx Jazz BandChill @ Portofino, 6:00pm

Bourbon Gorillas - The Benson Hotel, 6:30pm

Hot Ice - Cazalys Cairns, 6:30pm

SAX MAN Troy StevensFishery Falls Hotel, 7:30pm

Kaweyova - Central Hotel, Port Douglas, 7:30pm

Janna Mercedes - Rattle n Hum Palm Cove, 8:00pm

Mississippi Shakedown - Anthill Hotel, Mareeba, 8:00pm

Tennyson King - Bar36 @ The Reef Hotel Casino, 8:00pm

Miss Tee - The Pier Bar, 8:00pm

Tony George - Bar36 @ The Reef Hotel Casino, 9:30pm

Vivien Aisi - Boardwalk Social by Crystalbrook, 8:00am

Pete Bennett - Mayhem at Machans Café Bar, 1:00pm

Kaweyova - Beach House at Trinity Beach, 2:00pm

Waiting for Alice - Strait on the Beach, 3:00pm

Miss Tee - Cairns Jockey Club, 3:00pm

Andy Brassett - Atherton Turf Club, 5:00pm

SAX MAN Troy StevensThe Benson Hotel, 5:30pm

The Dannies - Hemingway’s Brewery Cairns Wharf, 5:30pm

Big Jim - Cazalys Cairns, 6:15pm

Tennyson King - Bar36 @ The Reef Hotel Casino, 8:00pm

Funhouse - Bar36 @ The Reef Hotel Casino, 9:30pm

Dave Stygall - Pier Markets, 9:00am

DjGlennW - Dundees at the Cairns Aquarium, 11:30am

Miss Tee - Smithfield Shopping Centre, 12:00pm

Carinda ChristieGaradunga Hotel, 2:00pm

The Dannies - Hemingway’s Brewery Cairns Wharf, 2:00pm

Wind and Wood - Yorkeys Knob Boating Club, 3:00pm

Lady Valiant - Sauce Brewing Co, 3:30pm

Cairns Blues ExplosionElixir Music House, 4:00pm

Amber Farnan & BandMacalisters, 5:00pm

Dave Stygall - Vitalia’s Italian Restaurant, 6:00pm

Kaweyova - The Pier Bar, 7:00pm

Midland - Cairns Convention Centre, 7:00pm

Dave Cooke - Bar36 @ The Reef Hotel Casino, 7:30pm

www.cairnslocalnews.com.au/gig-guide

Sun December 18, 2022 @ 8:00pm-10:30pm

The

The band will return to Australia to celebrate the release of their third studio album, ‘THE LAST RESORT: GREETINGS FROM’.

Midland’s

Giant Menorah built for world-first event in Cairns

TO celebrate the 2022 Hanukkah season, Chabad North QLD has constructed a world’s first Menorah made from recycled cans.

The Menorah, standing two metres tall, was constructed entirely of recycled cans and will bring light and joy to the FNQ community as they celebrate Hanukkah this year.

On Sunday, December 18, Chabad North QLD, which is dedicated to spreading Jewish awareness and education, will host this unique candle-lighting ceremony to promote Hanukkah.

The large-scale, in-person public Hanukkah celebration is making a comeback this year, and record numbers of participants are expected this year, including words from notable dignitaries like MP Bob Katter and Senator Nita Green.

The Recycled Menorah is the culmination of weeks of effort from many community members giving their cans and helping to construct it.

Rabbi Ari Rubin said this was an exciting event to celebrate and promote Hanukkah.

“Everyone is especially excited about Hanukkah this year,” Rabbi Rubin said.

“People are really resonating with the theme of sustainability and are so excited to see the message of Hanukkah fused with the message of recycling.

“The public Hanukkah celebration is about sharing this

light and joy with the broader community and the entire Cairns Region.”

Hanukkah emphasizes that every individual has the unique power to illuminate the entire world.

To encourage this profound idea that the Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, of righteous memory, launched the Hanukkah awareness campaign in 1973, of which Cairns’s public Hanukkah activities are a part of.

The Menorah faces the

street, the Rebbe notes, so bypassers immediately feel “the effect of the light, which illuminates the outside and the environment.”

In the half-century since, the Rebbe’s campaign has brought Hanukkah into the mainstream and altered awareness and practice of the festival.

The Hanukkah Festival of Light will take place on the Western Lawns at The Esplanade, opposite the night markets, on December 18, starting from 5.30pm.

(L-R) Rabbi Ari Rubin and volunteer Aaron Standley

Cinema revamp

FOLLOWING an extensive renovation, BCC Cinema Earlville reopened as Event Cinemas Earlville on Saturday, December 10.

The move to the Event Cinemas brand reflects the new premium cinema experiences on offer.

Built around Event Cinemas’ unique ‘Your Cinema Your Way’ seating concepts, the Cairns community now has a greater choice of premium cinema experiences in V-Max and Original Cinemas.

General Manager of Event Cinemas Cairns, Courtney Cameron, said they were pleased to reopen to the community and bring back cinema into the Earlville Shopping Town.

“For the past 20 years, our Earlville cinema has had a long-standing place in the community.” Ms Cameron said.

“To reopen as Event Cinemas and bring a new range of premium cinema experiences to Cairns is really exciting.”

Event Cinemas Earlville will now offer a large format V-MAX cinema featuring the biggest screen with the biggest sound and the widest choice of Your Cinema Your Way seats, including Double Daybeds, Full Recliners and V-Max Standard seating.

Customers can also upgrade their seats in the Original cinemas with the new Standard+

seating. Standard+ offers added comfort with extra space in the seat and extra space between seats for those who love to choose a little bit extra.

The renovation also includes a new games play area and updates to the Café & Bar, where customers can enjoy a pre- or postmovie coffee or cocktail to extend their movie-going experience.

To celebrate the opening, Event Cinemas Earlville opened the doors to its new V-MAX cinema on Saturday, December 10.

Earlville customers had the opportunity to participate in giveaways and face painting and were able to purchase $10 tickets to any Original session (with the ability to upgrade to Standard+ or V-Max for a small surcharge) for one day only.

With an epic line-up of upcoming new releases over the summer, including Avatar: The Way of Water, Puss in Boots: The Last Wish, Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile, Babylon, Magic Mike’s Last Dance, Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania, Blueback and A Man Called Otto, there has never been a more exciting time to experience the magic of cinema.

For more information, session times and tickets, visit: eventcinemas.com.au/Cinema/Cairns-Earlville

Regional artist fellowships

CAIRNS Art Gallery is extending the support of regional artists by showcasing the best and most inspiring art being produced by artists in Far North Queensland and the presentation of Artist Fellowship Awards of $7,500.

ARTNOW FNQ is a biennial exhibition that allows established and emerging artists to present new work to locals and visitors alike.

Through an application process, artists are selected by nationally recognised art professionals working in partnership with the Gallery.

This year, Ellie Buttrose, Curator of Contemporary Australian Art at the Queensland Art Gallery|Gallery of Modern Art, selected 18 artists from more than 60 submissions.

In announcing the selected artists, she commended them on pushing the boundaries of contemporary arts practice across a range of mediums.

ARTNOW FNQ is an acquisitive exhibition with many works purchased for the Gallery Collection, an enduring legacy for the next generation.

Proudly supported by the Cairns RSL Club, the exhibition opening event will see three artists from the exhibition receive an Artist

Fellowship Award of $7,500 to produce new works for a solo exhibition at the Gallery.

Speaking about the Fellowship Program, Gallery Director Andrea May Churcher said she was thrilled to be working in partnership with the Cairns RSL Club on this initiative, now in its third year that offers regional artists an opportunity to take their artistic practice to an exciting new level.

“The Fellowships will enable artists to purchase specialist materials and equipment and provide technical assistance to take their art in new directions, as well as provide ongoing mentoring support from our experienced curators,” Ms Churcher said.

Submissions for ARTNOW FNQ are open to creative practitioners from all art, craft and design disciplines, at any stage of their career development, who live in the region that the Gallery serves, from Cardwell in the south, west to Normanton and Mornington Island, and north to the Torres Strait Islands.

The Gallery is open seven days, with free entry for all.

The Cairns Art Gallery encourages the public to join them in celebrating the opening event of this new exhibition of local art.

Event Cinemas Earlville

Donna Davis - IMplant

Anne Jillett - Life Force

Maharlina Gorospe-Lockie - Home for a House

Do what you can to help them but don’t neglect your own family. Confusion at an emotional level will cause you to make wrong decisions concerning your personal life. This will not be the day to start new business ventures or make drastic changes in your career.

You may find that your quick wit and charm will help you in obtaining allies. Travel and social activity will bring about interesting talks, not to mention contacts. Try to understand both sides of the issue before taking sides. Go after your goals and don’t be afraid to ask for assistance.

Sudden changes regarding friendships are likely to occur if you have tried to change others. Let your lover know what your personal intentions are. You need to take a break with the ones you love. Social evenings at your place will be highly successful.

You might find that a co-worker has been two faced. Rest and relaxation will be more favourable than you think. Your love will not be willing to listen to your criticism. Hobbies will be good for your emotional wellbeing.

Put your emotional energy into passion not anxiety You can offer your help to others but back off if they appear to be offended by your persistence. You may exaggerate your emotional situation. You need a change, and you need to earn more cash.

Time is money and you must be ready to act in order to reach your highest potential. Try to curb your bad habits. You can make life easier for an older member of your family. Personal problems may be hanging over your head but don’t confront the situation.

When the work is done, they may serve you for a change. You are best to ask questions if you aren’t certain about issues that are confronting you. Changes at home might come fast and furious. Keep your feelings to yourself if you want to avoid embarrassment.

Try out for a local sports team such as volleyball, tennis, lawn bowling, or whatever interests you. Be careful not to push your luck or take too much for granted when dealing on either a personal or professional level. Your home environment appears to be a little shaky.

Opportunities to make financial gains will develop through your connections with other people. You can open up to your mate and let them know what you expect out of this relationship. Education may be the answer. Think hard before going into business with friends or family.

Don’t let others restrict you from saying how you feel about family issues. You may have a problem keeping secrets. You may have problems with health if you haven’t been taking care of yourself.

Consider conservative investments that will stay solid.

Trips, educational pursuits, or projects that could lead to new outlooks should be on your agenda. You will be able to get your own way through charm and know how. Plan a day of enjoyment with them. Think twice before you say something that might hurt your partner’s feelings.

feuds. Don’t overindulge in anyway.

a signal sounded especially on a bugle or drum to wake personnel in the armed forces (8)

DOWN

an island country in South Asia formerly known as Ceylon (3,5)

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

a small pedal-operated pleasure boat (6) 4. equivalent to the product of four and four (7) 5. a genus in the honeysuckle family of flowering plants (8) 6. the activity of keeping records of accounts (8) 7. to have had stones thrown at an object or person (6) 15. entangled in something (8) 16. for or relating to young people (8) 18. small tools used by climbers to traverse ice-covered slopes (8) 19. a person who is very interested in and enthusiastic about something (7) 21. an electric razor (6) 23. fussily and excessively respectable (6) 24. having the same age or date of origin; contemporary (6)

REAL ESTATE

Homeowners warned against holiday complacency

RACQ Group Executive Insurance Trent Sayers said the insurer had received more than 3,400 reported claims for theft from homes in Queensland since November 2019, despite the pandemic forcing more people to spend more time at home.

According to RACQ data, Cairns is the third suburb across Queensland with the highest frequency of break-in claims over the past three years, with 185 reported claims and a claim frequency of 0.508 per cent.

“Regions with the highest frequency of home break-ins include inner Brisbane, south Brisbane, Cairns, Logan and Townsville,” Mr Sayers said.

“While the pandemic resulted in a drop in break-ins, as more and more people plan to head away over the summer, now is not the time for complacency regarding securing our properties.

“Our research shows three-quarters of Queenslanders are concerned about being broken into while away on holidays, with most (67 per cent) taking extra home security measures.

“In addition to ensuring all entry points to your home are secure, extra precautions can include having a house sitter or someone check on your property regularly, having your mail collected, leaving lights on timers, and having security cameras,” he said.

“It’s also worth rethinking what you share on social media. Our research found that almost half of Queenslanders post pictures of their holiday adventures online while away.

“However, be mindful opportunistic thieves may use this information against you.”

Acting Inspector Dallas Kowald has urged the community to be vigilant when it comes to their home security as they get out and about these school holidays.

“While it is always offenders who are doing the wrong thing and choosing to commit offences, we also know there are ways that we, as individuals and as a community, can reduce

opportunities for these offences to occur,” said Acting Inspector Kowald.

“Make a conscious effort to lock doors and windows before leaving and remove valuables, such as spare keys for any vehicles which may be kept at the property, from sight.

“Around the holiday period, there tends to be an increase in online shopping, which means more parcels are delivered to homes. These parcels can be the target for offenders.

“We are encouraging residents to ensure their mail and parcels are protected from theft by collecting them promptly, providing specific instructions to place the parcel in a safe location, or using secure collection points such as parcel lockers.

“Employing simple steps can reduce the chance of coming home to any unwanted surprises. We want Queenslanders to have peace of mind while enjoying their well-deserved break,” he said.

Popular hotel for hunters

By Maria Larkins

THE Imperial Hotel at Geraldton was a popular place for crocodile hunters who could base themselves there while they ventured out onto the Johnstone River and its tributaries in search of their game.

It was built in 1899 by a saddler from Cooktown named David William Henry. Henry had been in Cooktown since 1885 with his wife Maria and seven children. There he was a member of the Cooktown Fire Brigade Board (1885-1886) and also for a short time, on the Cooktown Municipal Council (1897).

He had been granted a provisional license for the hotel in February 1899. He had engaged Townsville architects, W. G. Smith and Sons, to design a hotel of a “cosmopolitan but handsome design” suited to the tropical climate.

The entrance from the Esplanade revealed a spacious hall and an impressive staircase with two flights leading to the upper level

of 13 spacious bedrooms, a sitting room, and a large hall opening onto the spacious balcony. The balcony and verandah wrapped around the whole of the building and were 10 feet wide providing shaded and airy outdoor accommodation.

The ground floor provided a dining room, two parlors, a private sitting room, a sample room, kitchen, bathrooms, laundry and storeroom. The large bar featured an angular counter made of cedar, bean tree and beech. There was also a billiard room for the enjoyment of patrons. A feature of the hotel was its fire escape which provided safe passage to the street for occupants on the second storey in an emergency.

Mr. D. W. Henry, landlord of the Imperial Hotel, aged 45 years died at his hotel on Tuesday, January 16, 1900. After his death, Maria Henry ran the hotel with the help of their children.

On November 10, 1902 an article appeared in “The North

“The alligator (or crocodile) was a female and had tremendous girth in proportion to her 14ft length. She was evidently of great age, for there was not a solitary tooth in her big jaws. Examination of the body showed two bullet holes besides the one made by Mr. White, and these were no doubt given to her by Mr. Dillane about a fortnight ago when he sighted her in Bamboo Creek.”

The publicity would have ensured Henry’s Hotel would host many more hunters like White eager to claim

Queensland Register” with two photographs of a large female crocodile which had been shot at Geraldton by crocodile hunter, Mr. Henry White:

their own saurian prize.

Sources: TROVE, State Library of Queensland, State Library of NSW.

INSET: Reprint of newspaper photograph showing Henry White, with curious onlookers and his large crocodile, c. 1902. Photograph by F. C. Minkin, courtesy SLQ.

Crocodile caught near Johnstone River pictured outside the Imperial Hotel, c. 1902. Photograph by Innisfail Magistrate, William Pettigrew Wilson, courtesy SLQ.

E-Scooter rules in Queensland Holiday campaign to combat distracted driving

ing centre line or median strip) (fines range from $143 to $575 depending on how much you exceed the 25km/h speed limit by)

• No doubling (or face a $143 fine)

• When riding on a footpath or shared path, do not exceed 12km/hr (fines range from $143 to $575 depending on how much you exceed the 12km/h speed limit by)

• 25km/h remains the maximum speed limit for devices on bike paths and on local streets (with a speed limit of 50km/h or less, with no divid-

• You can ride in bike lanes on roads with a speed limit of 50km/hr or less at up to 25km/h (fines range from $143 to $575 depending on how much you exceed the 25km/h speed limit by)

• If a path has a signed speed limit different to either the 12km/h or 25km/h default (depending on the type of infrastructure), this also applies to riders (fines range from $143 to $575 depending on how much you exceed the speed limit by)

• Do not ride on a prohibited road (or face a $172 fine)

• Never hold a mobile phone in your hand while riding (expect the same fine as if you illegally used a phone while driving – $1078).

It’s also now mandatory to have a warning bell for e-scooters and e-devices with handlebars. It will help to better alert other path users of your approach.

When you’re finished your journey, park safely or in designated parking zones.

Before you jump on your e-scooter or any similar device, jump on the StreetSmarts website to see the full list of new rules and practical advice on how and where to ride safely.

“STOP multi-tasking. Just drive.”

That’s the clear and simple message from RACQ that will be plastered on billboards across the State from today - in a bid to change driver behaviour and create awareness about the dangers of distracted driving.

The Club’s General Manager Advocacy Joshua Cooney said the campaign will run during the summer holidays when tens of thousands of families are on the road.

“Our message to Queenslanders is simple – Stop multi-tasking. Just drive,” Mr

Cooney said.

“Last year 23 people died in road crashes involving inattentive or distracted motorists, but according to our 2022 Annual Road Safety Survey, many Queenslanders still don’t take distracted driving seriously.

“Our research shows 64 per cent of drivers admit to using a hands-free mobile phone behind the wheel, almost 32 per cent said they use a hand-held phone, 74 per cent said they eat and drink, and nearly 60 per cent view or enter GPS settings while driving.

“With so much going on in

our lives it’s easy to be distracted while driving but getting safely to the destination must be our only objective.

“It’s so important to avoid doing anything that takes your eyes off the road, hands off the wheel or mind off the critical task of driving.”

To help spread RACQ’s message far and wide across Queensland, the campaign will include social media ads, magazine spreads and billboards provided by Bishopp.

Bishopp CEO Brad Bishopp said road safety is one of regional Queensland’s biggest challenges.

“More than 230 lives have been lost on regional roads so far this year and we know the holiday season only intensifies the risk,” Mr Bishopp said. “Bishopp is providing up to 100 billboards across Queensland for the sole purpose of saving Queensland lives.” RACQ wants all Queenslanders to make it to their Christmas celebrations and holidays safely. Observe the Fatal Five and Stop multi-tasking. Just drive.

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If you would prefer us not to do so, please write to us at: Cairns Local News, 1/185 Mulgrave Rd, Cairns, Qld 4870 Access to your personal information can be obtained by calling (07) 4031 7678.

FNQ Markets

Friday December 16th

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

Kuranda Heritage Markets: Rob Vievers 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

Tully Christmas Street Party: Butler St, 17:00-21:00

Saturday December 17th

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

Clifton Beach: Clifton Beach Shopping Centre, 09:00-14:00

Innisfail Lioness: ANZAC Park, 07:00-12:00

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

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

Malanda:Showgrounds, 07:30-12:30

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

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

Sunday December 18th

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

Wondecla: Wondecla Sports Ground, 07:00-12:00

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

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

Mission Beach Markets: Opposite Hideaways, 07:00-12:00

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

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

The Pier: 1 Pierpoint Rd, Cairns, 09:00-14:00

Woree: Cannon Park, 08:00-13:00

Yungaburra: Bruce Jones Park, Main St, 07:00-12:00

SPORT

INNISFAIL MENS BOWLS

Thursday December 8th: A roll-up of 30 bowlers were on the green for afternoon Social Games. Winners: Bob Chaplain, George Edgerton and John Kremastos. New members and visitors most welcome. Names in by 12:30pm for a 1:00pm start. Thursday the 15th is our hamper day. Friday December 9th: Consistency Singles: Bob Chaplain def Doug Juhas, in a close fought game. In a final on Sunday Bob couldn’t keep up his recent form and went down to Gordon Goes. Congratulations Gordon. In another tight game the team of Jim Martinod, Michael Roots and Mal Clifford defeated Doug Juhas, George Edgerton and Warren Sinclair in the final of the Club Triples. Our presentation day and drawing of the Xmas Goose was well supported. Congratulations to all the winners of the day. A big thank you to all donors of prizes for our goose board. It is very much appreciated. There will be no social bowls on Saturdays for the next few weeks. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you all.

WEST CAIRNS TPI

MEMORIAL BOWLS CLUB

An increasing number of eighteen bowlers including a visitor from Ipswich enjoyed the facilities available at the West Cairns Bowls Club last Monday for the last game for this year. The winners of the lucky card drawn at the end of the day were Peter Horvath, Tony Kassambos with the team being led by Les Thornton. A cooling breeze made the conditions more pleasant than they have been in recent days. The next game will be held on the January 9th next year commencing at 1:30pm after the club returns from the Christmas recess. A sheet is available inside the clubhouse outside the bowls storage room or names can be forwarded to our selector on 0409 624 623 during the break. As usual the cards will be called at 1:15pm on the Monday and finishes at 4:30pm with afternoon tea included in the green fee. Any information you may need can be obtained

from the selector during the break. Our club members pass on the best wishes for the festive season to all active bowlers in the area and invite them all to come and visit us in 2023.

EDGE HILL BOWLS CLUB

Ladies Social Bowls: Social bowls will continue for Thursday December 15th, names in by 2:30pm for 3:00pm start.

Ladies Club Championship Singles game saw Lou Pomroy def Jill Alexander-Sachse, 2624. Lorraine King def Yvonne Bolton, 26-22. Cornelia Smith def Tania Sprengel, 25-18.

Mixed Pairs Final: Jill Alexander-Sachse and Steve Henson def Wayne Hunter and Tricia DeRon, 19-17. Other games are scheduled to be played this week.

Men’s Mixed Social Bowls: Wednesday December 7th: Winners: Mucka, Brenton and Sony; R/up: Mel, Jennie and Kaye. Saturday December 10th: Scroungers: Winner: Bruce Moseley, R/up: Elaine Whitehead and Gary Pomroy. Many groups of Bare Foot Bowlers took to the green for work Christmas functions. These BFB Functions will continue most days until Christmas. Volunteers are still required to assist with organising these groups. Please add your name to the list on the notice Board or attend at the appropriate time nominated.

Social Bowls will start on Tuesday at 3pm and Night bowls remain at 7pm, Wednesday night Self Selected Triples will also remain at 7pm. Saturday Social Bowls will still be played at 1pm as Saturday BFB bookings for December 2022 will have large groups booked from 2pm. Check with the Club for other start times or see the new Social Bowls Booking forms online on Edge Hill Club Website and Facebook page as some green fees and start times have changed. You can contact Ray Webster 0402 182 230 for social bowls assistance and volunteering your time or ring the Club 07 4053 1036.

MOSSMAN MEN’S BOWLS

Saturday December 10th: 36 bowlers for Jackpot Bowls. Bill

Smith, Jim Geddes, Alistair Douglas def Ranald Edwards, Steve Cue, Daryl Hoskins, 2523; Peter Busch, Martin, Matty def Bernie Wolland, Jock Constantine, Chris Payne, 23-19; Charlie Toohey, Dick Pitt, Tony Brlyack def Malachy McTaggart, Mick Plummer, Bill Allison, 19-15; Terry Richards, David White, George Wilmot def Col Widdows, Kiwi, Joe Girgenti, 27-15; Col Johnson, Wayne Parkes, Nev Fletcher def David Blain, John Fleming, Nev Tesch, 22-9; and the winners for the day, Gerard Beech, Peter Fairchild, Peter Gorsuch def Bruce Lester, SAS, Derek Franklin, 33-13. A reminder, the next Social Bowls will be held this Thursday December 15th from 5:30pm with names in by 5pm at a cost of $10 per person. Cost includes a sausage sizzle after the game (8:00pm) and the chance to win a $50.00 meat tray from Mossman Butchers. To register ring the Club on 4098 1434. Nomination sheet on the noticeboard for the Sam Rinaudo Shield to be held on the weekend January 21st & 22nd. District will soon call for nominations for the district championships with Mossman to host the Fours on the weekend of January 28th & 29th and the Pairs on the weekend of February 4th & 5th. District singles will be held February 11th & 12th. Club Championship book for 2023 is now open. Anyone interested in playing bowls, either for the first time or returning to the game, contact David White on 0407 630 759. You can now follow the Mossman Bowls Club Men’s Section on Facebook and see our new website www.mossmanbowlsclub.com. au

MARLIN COAST BOWLS CLUB

Tuesday Afternoon Men’s Triples: Winner: Eddie, Howard, Danny; R/up: Ozzie, Gary, Mick. Tuesday Night Bowls: Spider: Dennis, Glenne, Shane, Rod, Sisca. Wednesday Mixed Bowls: Winner: A Lim, A Clarkson, T Ibbett; R/up: C Thompson, L Roberts. Thursday Men’s Triples: Winner: R Blake, G Reynolds, N Robson;

R/up: O Morley, E Parkes, C Scott. Sunday December 11th: Snow Dome Day: Winner: O Morley, R Blake, N Robson; R/up: C Scott, D Gibson, G Andersen; 3rd: S Porter, A Lim, C Flanagan. All bowlers, nonbowlers and tourists welcome. Bowls available for free, ph 4057 6931. Note: All social games played, cards are called 15 minutes before start. Club championships to be played: Check boards for play by dates for Championship games. Like us on Facebook. Special Events: Raffles Friday night also trivia.

SILKWOOD BOWLS

Saturday December 10th was our Annual Ham Day Competition with 2 games of 12 ends. Competing were 42 bowlers from Edmonton, Stratford, Sth Johnstone, Innisfail, Tully and Silkwood Bowls Clubs. Winners: Len Charman, Denise Charman & Morris Pedrola with 2 wins + 38, winning half a ham each; R/up: Cathy H, Dutchy & Rooster with 2 wins + 37, winning a quarter of ham each; 3rd: Terry McAlary, Debbie Maxwell and Ann Winsor 1 win +1 draw + 31, winning a breakfast meat tray each. Touchers were done for each game, 1st game touchers: Lead toucher was Annette Evans; 2nd toucher Dutchy; and Skip toucher Peter Smith (Tully). Our 2nd game touchers were Lead, Shirley; and 2nd was Angry; & Skip was Peter Smith (Tully). We also had random draw winners: Lead was Mirella Berryman, 2nd Joanne Townsend and Skip Rex Williams. All touchers & random draw winners won a small leg ham portion each. Congratulations to all the winners. 2022 Ernie Bucklar Shield: Mixed Pairs: Denise Charman & Tony Cates def Barry Green & Mirella Berryman 23 to 20; Delmo Tarditi & Ann Hollingsworth def Tim Wallis & Neil Lawrence 24 to 14. Sunday December 4th the club was closed as members were involved in the Kennedys Christmas Fun Day at Gordonvale & Tully Bowls Club Ham Day, was enjoyed by all. Our annual Goose Raffle night with

lots of prizes to be won, will be held on Friday December 16th at 6pm BBQ & Bowls, Raffles commence at 8pm, for further details and registering for catering purposes please contact us on number below. Silkwood Bowls Club Goose Raffle Night is open to our communities’ family, friends and visitors for a fun night. Wednesday December 14th will be our last social day for the year. For all enquires contact the club on 0475 759 808.

WEST CAIRNS MEN’S BOWLS CLUB

Friday Scroungers: Winner: Irene Crampton; R/up: Pauline Bent. Tuesday afternoon: Winners: Neil Mallyon, J Carr and J Bent, 21pts; R/up: Raymond, T Moulds and George Atkinson, 11pts and +3 in the second game. Thirsty Thursday: Best Players: Steve Martin, Jocho and Gabby. Sunday Morning: Winner: T Moulds, J Carr and Earnie Harris, 22 pts; R/ up: Norm Kehrer, G Atkinson and Johno Johnson, 20pts. The Sunday morning games start at 9:30am so the cards are called at 9:15am, all are welcome.

Club Championship: Men’s Triples Final: Winners: Glen Donavon, Ken Vivan and Steve Smith, 27pts; R/up: Scott Carolan, Terry Mawer and Steve Ford, 13pts. Congratulations to all the teams that participated. Men’s B Grade Pairs: 2nd Round: Des Lazarus and Jim Duffield, 25 pts def J Scardon and J Johnson, 12pts; G Donovan and S Carolan def J Wilcox and Ted Hamilton 13pts. Skips to Check and organise the next games (B grade pairs). Happy bowling and see you on the Green. Social bowlers are always welcome at West Cairns Bowls Club.

MOSSMAN LADIES’ BOWLS

December 4th: Some ladies went to Gordonvale to participate in the Kennedy Charity Fundraiser. Best dressed team was taken out by a team dressed as elves with their own mascot dressed as them too! Magnificent effort. I was told that the most heavily fined was Bernie O’Shea.

Who needs others ‘ fines’ with Bernie there. Even our lady copped one for losing her earring on the green. All reported that day was a success. Still a great way to raise funds. 8th December. Our Ham/Chook Day Raffle winner was Gloria Geeves. Winners: Joan Day and Trish Arnold; R/up: Maree Crees and Anne Geddes. The other ham and chooks were drawn out of the hat. Thank you, Mossman Bowls Club, for providing the Hams etc. It was also the day that a birthday cake was put on for Margaret Cooper, Carole Maxted and Maree Crees. Many Happy Returns. December 9th: Xmas Lunch: For an eventful bowls calendar, our lunch was the icing on the cake. Many thanks to the kitchen chefs, Janice Brlyack and Carole Maxted for the amazing lunch and deserts, and to Joan and Trish for the entertainment. To Troy, Franco and the kitchen elves; the Bar staff elves and finally to the Management, the ladies extend a hearty Thank you. Many compliments were forth coming about the Clubs’ Xmas decor. Thank you to our darling Kirsty and Mother Santa Claus. Merry Xmas to all. See you all in the New Year.

MILLAA MILLAA GOLF

Sunday December 11th: 2 ball Medley Ambrose sponsored by Mungalli Dairy Products. Winner: Graham Murray and Dave Hay, 60 ½ nett; R/ up: Paul Foster, 63 nett and Richard (Sol) Sullivan 63 nett; 3rd: Les Taylor and Wayne (Chuck) Norris, on countback from Bruce Hunter and Ray Marsh. NTP: Graham Murray and Dave Hay on 1/10, Kelvin Groves & Don McHardie on 5/14; Graham Suffield on 3/12. Raffle: 4 winners: Kelvin Brooks, The Club thanks to Bruce Hunter, Ross Heike and Wayne Norris; Members draw remains as 45 Mark Twomey was not present. Next week is a Flag Event sponsored by the Heidke Family, 9am for 9:30am start. See ya there. News: At the committee meeting it was decided there would be no club events on the Xmas/New Year weekends.

Cairns Volleyball farewells a successful year

CAIRNS Volleyball Association (CVA) said goodbye to another “smashing” year.

Last week saw the final round of the indoor social season, with many new players joining to see how the competition works in an inclusive environment. The season four 2022 winners were the “Rusty & Shiny” with “ILAN Remix” team coming in second.

This was the last in an extensive line of social, club and representative events throughout the year.

The first indoor mixed social season kicked off on Wednesday nights in February and saw many interested new players picking up new skills and others improving on the knowledge from previous seasons.

Seasons two and three were the Men’s and Women’s competitive seasons, with some tough competition in both ranks. From these competitions, players went on to represent the CVA Crocs

at the Townsville Classic hosted by the Townsville Monsoons Competition in August.

The Cairns women’s team took out Bronze, and the little “Reefers” took out gold in the U12 boys’ and Bronze in the U12 girls’ divisions.

September saw the CVA-backed “Spring Beach Bash” taking advantage of clear skies and what should have been cooler temperatures. It was great for the volleyball community to have an increase in participation to the beach game in 2022.

Only a month later, indoor volleyball was being played again across two venues for the first time at Trinity Bay State High School Sports Centre and the Mulgrave Rd Youth & Recreation Hall for the Cairns Cup, with an increase of 80 per cent in nominated teams compared to 2021.

Barely a break in the volleyball schedule in Cairns when the

Volleyball Queensland Beach Tour Round 4 event was back in Cairns for the first time since 2017 in late October. Again, FNQ delivered quality competition with crowds treated to some fantastic athletes. Cairns Volleyball hopes to provide it again in 2023.

Lastly, the ‘Learn to play’ program on Thursday nights keeps growing. This program has seen newcomers to the sport gain the skills they need to begin playing competitively, and it will be back in 2023.

Cairns Volleyball thanked the community for supporting volleyball in Cairns this year; without community participation, engagement and support, 2022 would not have been so successful.

The Cairns Volleyball team encourages the community to invite their friends and acquaintances to participate in the best game, indoors and out, and get onto the ‘Cairns Volleyball’ Facebook group for future updates.

Photos supplied by Cairns Volleyball Association

By Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

in Hendra from Friday, December 9 to Tuesday, December 13, for an epic battle between Southeast Queensland and North Queensland.

North Queensland Baseball Division 1 coach and Regional Director of Coaching Daniel White said baseball was rapidly becoming more inclusive.

“Cairns Baseball was the first of the ranks to enter a women’s team into their local competition, and then a couple of years ago

Townsville did,” Mr White said.

“And slowly over the last few years, the numbers for women’s game have been growing, to the point that this year we’re sending the first youth women’s team, we’re also sending a Division 1 and Division 2 women’s team to compete for the state titles.

“Last year, the Division 1 team took out the championship and won the State titles, and the Division 2 came second in their first-ever attempt, so the expectations are high.”

As a coach, Mr White said it was very encouraging to see women taking over baseball.

“It’s fantastic for women to be taking a central position in the sport,” Mr White said.

“The sport itself has been growing, but we’ve seen the women’s side of the game take off, and it’s no longer a boy’s sport; it’s a sport for everyone.”

Prior to the competition, Mr White said the athletes had their heads in the game after the intensive training and were ready to step on the diamond.

“I think everyone’s been training hard and preparing themselves,” he said.

“We’ve got a hitting session at lunchtime once we get down there, and then we’re heading to the Brisbane Bandits game and checking out some of the professional action.

“We’ll be enjoying ourselves before we take the field on Saturday.”

Divisions 1 and 2 were set to compete on Saturday and Sunday, while the youth and the girls would take the stage on Monday and Tuesday.

The North Queensland Storms took the Women’s Open by surprise, with the Division 1 team taking gold and Division 2 taking silver.

The youth women’s team has 12 members, with Ngaire Ross representing Cairns and proving herself both in softball and baseball.

On Monday and Tuesday, the youth women’s team took their place at the diamond for the state title for the first time.

And the women’s youth NQ Storms did not disappoint; on Monday, they defeated Brisbane South 14-4.

Proud of the overall results of the NQ Storms throughout the Women’s Open, Mr White said the inclusivity within the sport was one of its most exciting aspects.

“The inclusiveness it’s what makes it exciting,” he said.

“Obviously, the state titles are either women’s or youth women’s, but in Queensland, especially in Townsville and Cairns, the women play alongside the men.

“There are not many sports where you see that, and once they’re in the field, everyone treats everyone the same.

“You can be big, tall, short, young, old, it’s a sport for everyone, and it’s such an engaging environment where you just want to be part of it,” he said.

Division 1 Champions NQ Storms and runner-up Gold Coast

Division 2 NQ Storms silver with the gold winners the Narangba Demons