Cairns Local News January 17 2025

Local News Cairns

Mayor’s exclusive chitchats

l CAIRNS REGION

| Nick Dalton

CAIRNS Mayor Amy Eden is holding the first in a series of exclusive mayoral roundtables with city business owners.

They are limited to eight people to “encourage meaningful discussion,” she said.

“I’m pleased to invite Cairns business owners to the inaugural mayoral roundtable on business, a forum for open discussion, innovative ideas and collaboration,” she said on Facebook.

“The roundtable is a listening exercise, giving key business leaders across all sectors the chance to:

• Share ideas, concerns and challenges

• Put forward innovative solutions for our city’s future

• Contribute to shaping Cairns as a hub of opportunity and growth.

“It’s also an opportunity for me to present my vision for Cairns, focusing on how we can work together to support economic resilience, attract investment and empower our business community to thrive.”

The first is on Tuesday, February 11.

“This is just the beginning. More roundtables will be held throughout the year and my term as mayor to ensure all voices are heard,” Cr Eden said.

Epic road trip

Drive to emulate Route 66 from Coolangatta to Cairns

east coast and visit the many regional towns and locations with wacky Route 66-like roadside attractions such as the giant golden gumboot at Tully as well as making roads such as the spectacular Captain Cook Highway and the Bloomfield Track destinations in their own right.

Tourism and Events Queensland acting chief executive officer Ollie Philpot said he wanted travellers to make the 2000km-long ‘Pacific Coast Way’ synonymous with Queensland.

“When people think of a road trip, we want them to think of Queensland – our very own version of Route 66,” he said.

CONTINUED PAGE 3

A Luxury Car Hire Ford Mustang passes the famed Rex lookout on the Captain Cook Highway at Wangetti.

Picture: Tourism Tropical North Queensland

Sixty

interns start medical careers throughout the health service

New doctors ‘excited’

l CAIRNS NORTH

| Andree Stephens

IMPROVING remote and rural health services was front and centre for two new doctors who were among 60 interns beginning their medical careers at Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service (CHHHS) last week.

For Gus Spaleck, it was his second day on the job and he was feeling “pretty good”.

“It’s been a long time coming and I’m really excited to start work, for sure,” he said.

A Townsville fellow, he said he had wanted to come to Cairns for his final training because he loved the region.

Upgrade to Cairns

“Cairns is a bit of an upgrade. We’ve got the rainforest and the Reef here. It’s a beautiful city,” he said.

It was also a region where he could hone his skills to become a rural generalist doctor, working in smaller rural environments. His first placement will be at Mareeba Hospital.

A rural generalist doctor is a general practitioner who has training in additional skills such as obstetrics, anaesthetics or mental health services, to cater for areas which might not have those specialists at hand.

“A lot of being a student is sitting, observing, being a bit of a pot plant. But when you’re working in rural areas everyone works as a team, and you really get involved,” Mr Spaleck said.

“So, if there’s an emergency situation in a rural area, you need someone who’s trained,” he said.

“It’s not just working in a primary care setting, but in smaller

remote hospitals. Being able to put people to sleep for operations, or helping to deliver babies, things like that.

“I think the beautiful thing about rural generalists is you can do a bit of everything.”

Call of rural pathway

Annabelle Brennan, despite being a Sydney girl, also felt the call of the rural generalist pathway.

She studied medicine in southeast Queensland and experienced a lot of rural placements including at Palm Island and Thursday Island – which “solidified” her desire to work in rural and remote locations.

She has also volunteered with UUNTU Health, a char-

ity which focuses on women’s health in rural and remote areas of Nepal.

“I really think it’s important to service these smaller communities – a lot are very underserviced,” Ms Brennan said.

“That was the draw for me. I really want to contribute as much as I can to the more underserviced communities … and be able to give those people consistent healthcare, so they don’t end up presenting at bigger hospitals in a dire state.”

Ms Brennan will be interning in Cairns, her first time in the city, and plans to enjoy “the beautiful rainforests, the waterfalls, the Reef,” and settle into her job.

“It feels weird to say it, but yes, I’m a doctor,” she said.

After six years of university study, this year is a training year for the new doctors. They will be rotated across various areas within the hospital or at regional hospitals under CHHHS.

Good training reputation

Clinical training director

Trent Yarwood said most of the recruits were from JCU, but doctors like Ms Brennan chose to come to Cairns from other universities around Australia and southeast Queensland because of what the region had to offer.

“They’ve heard what a good training experience we can provide in Cairns,” he said.

“You see medicine here (in Cairns) is pretty much unlike anywhere else in Australia, and so with the workplace environment, and the fact that the work is so interesting, we have good retention of our staff over many years.

“For the junior doctors, you really get an opportunity to get your hands dirty in a way you don’t much in the cities.

“We make sure they get exposed to patients having surgery, patients who are coming in from communities where we don’t know what’s wrong with them, patients with chronic illness, and, unique to Cairns, they sometimes get to work with the flying doctors.”

New interns Dr Gus Spaleck and Dr Annabelle Brennan with clinical training director Dr Trent Yarwood. Picture: Andree Stephens

Spare the dingoes

Local campaign launched to save wild dogs at Port Douglas

l PORT DOUGLAS

| Dave Lornie

A CAMPAIGN has been launched to try to stop drastic measures such as culling young dingoes in Port Douglas.

Recent reports of young dingoes stalking people and small dogs in the town has resulted in local animal activist groups, such as Paws and Claws, raising the alarm, as well as a petition launched by animal lover Rosie Wang.

Homeless Animal Society and Boarding Kennels treasurer Pauline Halsall said this had raised “alarms about safety and the well-being of both the community and the dingoes themselves”.

“As these iconic creatures are an integral part of the region’s natural heritage, experts warn that misunderstandings and inappropriate interactions can lead to dangerous situations,” she said.

“Local residents are now increasingly calling for the council to take proactive measures to address the situation rather than just reactive measures such as euthanasia for these animals.”

Education campaign

Some community members are advocating for an educational initiative aimed at fostering a better understanding of dingoes to assist in preventing these issues in the future.

“They propose the installation of informative signs and the distribution of flyers throughout the region, which would provide essential safety tips and guidelines for coexisting with these natural wild animals,” said Ms Halsall.

“Education is key to ensuring the safety of our community while also protecting the dingoes.

“By informing people about how to respond to dingo encounters and encouraging responsible behaviour, we can help prevent future conflicts and promote a harmonious relationship between humans and wildlife.

Coastal drive to entice tourists

FROM PAGE 1

“Like Route 66 we want the Pacific Coast Way to become an iconic road trip that captivates travellers, not only in Australia, but all over the world,” Mr Philpott said.

“We’re not just promoting a trip, we’re creating a new way to experience Queensland. The Pacific Coast Way links coastal havens, hinterland towns and major cities all along the east coast from the Gold Coast to Cairns promising unforgettable adventures around every bend.

“It’s our stunning and diverse natural environment, coupled with hero tourism experiences and iconic events throughout the year that makes this road trip one to remember.

“Drive holidays are already popular in Queensland generating $9bn last year but we want to grow that number to $12bn by 2032 and the release of our ‘Discover Queensland – Drive Tourism Marketing Strategy’ will be our road map to get there.

“We’re championing the Pacific Coast Way as our hero route, spanning 10 of our 13 tourism regions.

“Think of it as Queensland’s answer to Route 66 – a legendary drive that promises unforgettable adventures around every bend.

“As well as championing the Pacific Coast Way, we’re also working on promoting the Matilda Way and Great Inland Way.

Backpackers ‘not helping’ Ms Halsall also took a swipe at backpackers staying in the Port Douglas sports complex area where the dingoes have been seen.

“These campers have been leaving food scraps in this area also encouraging these animals to remain in the area and connect humans to a food source,” she said.

“As Port Douglas continues to attract tourists and nature enthusiasts, the call for action will

“The proposed educational resources would, not only raise awareness, but also empower residents and visitors with the knowledge needed to navigate encounters with dingoes safely. This initiative aims to create a more informed community that respects and understands the importance of our wildlife in the region.”

grow louder. We hope that the council will respond promptly to these concerns, ensuring the safety of residents while preserving the unique wildlife that makes Port Douglas a special place to live and visit.”

A Douglas Shire Council spokesman said temporary warning signs had been installed at the Port Douglas sports complex and permanent education signs would be erected as well.

“Residents and visitors are encouraged to visit (the) council’s website to learn about how to be dingo-safe, Queensland laws and regulations and community responsibility when it comes to dingoes,” he said.

An Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation Depart-

ment spokesman said “this isn’t something our department can comment on, as we only manage dingoes on K’gari (formerly Fraser Island)”.

“Dingoes on the mainland are considered wild dogs and don’t come under our management responsibility,” he said.

Petition launched

A petition in support of the dingoes has been launched by Ms Wang. It has garnished 1266 signatures.

“One of the joys of living in this beautiful part of the world is the richness of its wildlife, flora and fauna,” she said.

“While some species, like crocodiles, snakes, and sharks, may capture more attention due to media and film dramatisation,

others, like dingoes, are unfairly misunderstood.

“The two dingoes currently in Port Douglas have brought joy to many locals, including myself. During one encounter, I shooed them off a bend in the road to prevent them from being hit by a car.

“They observed me with curiosity before retreating into the undergrowth – hardly the ‘vicious baby-hunting dogs’ popularised by outdated stereotypes.

“Dingo attacks in Australia are exceedingly rare and often linked to human negligence, such as ignoring ‘do not feed’ signs, particularly on K’gari (Fraser Island).”

View council’s wild dog action plan at https://bit.ly/3Pt0ihU

“Between the three arterial routes, they connect 90 per cent of Queensland’s key destinations. “

In February/March 2025, TEQ will launch the ‘Too Great to Wait’ campaign, part of which will include a focus on promoting driving holidays.

The campaign will be nationwide, with a key focus on Queenslanders taking a driving trip in their own state.

Campaign activity will also extend into the key interstate markets of New South Wales and Victoria, in partnership with the Qantas Group to offer exclusive deals, Luxury Escapes to offer exclusive packages and with Booking.com for the first time to deliver compelling hotel offers.

One of the curious dingoes on the streets of Port Douglas. Most residents want them to stay.

Picture: Rosie Wang

Cassowary council rolls out reprocessing scheme from March 24

Lifting the lid on recyling

l CASSOWARY COAST

| Nick Dalton

CASSOWARY Coast residents will soon be able to recycle plastic bottles and containers, steel and aluminium cans and glass bottles and jars.

The council’s kerbside recycling starts on March 24, 2025.

Households with kerbside collection will receive yellowlidded bins, replacing the current green-lidded dry waste bins. The bins are designed for recycling hard plastic bottles and containers, steel and aluminum cans, glass bottles and jars and paper and cardboard.

Mayor Teresa Millwood said the long-awaited initiative was a major milestone in the region’s journey toward sustainable waste management and environmental stewardship.

“We’re excited to bring kerbside recycling to our region and provide residents with a practical way to reduce landfill and protect our environment. By sorting your waste, we can all contribute to a cleaner, greener future,” she said

“Kerbside recycling is a community effort. Together, we can make 2025 the year of sustainable waste management for the Cassowary Coast.”

Key dates:

• March 3-21, 2025: Green bin lids will be swapped to

yellow during regular dry waste collection day

• March 24, 2025: Kerbside recycling officially begins.

• Once the yellow lid is installed, residents should place their bin on the kerb fortnightly, even before recycling officially starts.

The collection schedule will align with the previous green-lid bin collection day.

How to get it sorted:

To ensure recycling efforts are effective, residents are reminded to:

• Only recycle approved items: Hard plastics, steel and aluminum cans, glass jars, and paper/cardboard.

• Avoid contaminants like soft plastics, food scraps, nappies, and small items (e.g., lids and bread tags)

– these belong in your red lidded bin or general waste.

• Rinse containers, flatten cardboard, and keep items loose – no bags or boxes.

Recyclables will be transported to the Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) in Cairns, where they will be sorted and processed into new materials, reducing waste and conserving resources.

Ready to learn more?

Visit the council’s kerbside recycling page at https://bit.ly/3BY1WoW or call 1300 763 903.

Severe heatwave warning

l FAR NORTH

QUEENSLAND Health has issued an emergency extreme heatwave warning for the Far North.

“The Bureau of Meteorology advises extreme heatwave conditions continue to affect far northern Queensland, including Cairns, Ingham and surrounding areas,” the department said.

“These conditions are forecast to continue until tomorrow and are expected to reach a severity that may pose a health risk to those in the affected areas.

“While extreme heatwave conditions are no longer impacting areas of the Cape and Mackay regions, parts of far northern, northern and central Queensland continue to experience severe heatwave conditions.

“Make sure you know what to do when there is a heatwave warning in your area. Stay informed by visiting the Heatwave Service for Australia website.” Heat stress can cause a range of health problems, including heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heatstroke.

Call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25) or visit your doctor. Call triple zero (000) immediately in an emergency.

For more details visit our website: www.cairnslocalnews.com.au

Councillor Ellen Jessop (left) and Mayor Teresa Millwood with a new yellow lid recycling bin. Picture: Cassowary Coast Regional Council

Council grants

$150,000

CAIRNS Regional Council is to support the Italian Festival with $50,000 a year over the next three years.

Cr Brett Moller (Div. 1) told last month’s council meeting it was “a great example of a community initiative growing year on year”. He said the crowds it attracted were “remarkable” and it embraced the city’s multi-culturalism.

Cr Moller said it was – not only staged in the centre of Cairns – but there were events in Innisfail and on the Tablelands.

A council report said since its formation in 2022 to celebrate the region’s rich Italian history, the festival had delivered a diverse and unique program of activities to reignite inter-cultural and inter-generational community connections.

“Serving as an umbrella for several food, wine, cultural and sporting events held across Cairns, the festival includes signature events such as the gala ball, hall of fame awards, a family night and the MarconiBomben soccer match,” it said.

The report said more than 12,000 people attended La Festa ( a quarter from outside of Cairns), generated 4439 visitor nights and $1 million.

New faces for carnival

Cairns Italian Festival reveals exhilarating program for 2025 event

l CAIRNS REGION

| Andree Stephens

FROM pasta making demonstrations, to a female accordionist performing hot off her European tour, this year’s Cairns Italian festival promises to have “more of everything”, according to festival president Claudio Di Bartolomeo.

On top of the usual famous bands that are now part of the Cairns Italian Festival family, this year’s week-long event brings in some new faces to build the festival’s entertainment reputation.

Bringing some MC flair to the festival events are Simone Barbieri and Marco Petta, from Radio Italiana, which airs in Brisbane and Adelaide.

Also new to the event will be Melbourne-based Nikki Dagostino, one of Australia’s most entertaining piano accordionists.

“Nikki will be touring in Europe but is coming back just to be at our festival,” Mr Di Bartolomeo said.

And this year the festival introduces Viva la Diva, three Italian female vocalists who have joined forces for the festival.

“The singers formed just for us, and we’ll launch them, just as we did the Italian Stallions last year,” Mr Di Bartolomeo said.

Other new events to debut this year are Opera in the Rainforest, and the Long lunch, La Dolce Vita.

The popular Festa Day would also be bigger and better with “more entertainment, more food, and more interactive stalls” Mr Di Bartolomeo said.

Aiming to top last year’s 36 food stalls, 2025 stalls made up of local and family busi-

Council News Update Improvement works

Navigation Dr, Trinity Beach: Construction of road link between Trinity Beach and Trinity Park. Road closures and traffic control as required.

Mt Peter Rd, Edmonton: Kerb and channel renewal from Prior St to Mills Rd.

Booth Rd, Mirriwinni: Water main upgrade. Temporary road closures and traffic control as required.

nesses will feature authentic Italian dishes from arancini and wood-fired pizza, to the classic desserts of cannoli, gelato and tiramisu. All of which will be complemented by the best Italian wines and other beverages. People can also watch and learn as interactive demonstrations are delivered in the art of making pasta, mozzarella, burrata and sausage.

Now in its third year, the Cairns Italian Festival will run from Thursday, July 24 to Sunday, August 3.

Festival favourites such as the spaghetti eating competition, Tastes of Italy, Italian Speaking contest, theatre, the Gala Ball, and Mareeba’s Salami Sausage Festa will also make their return.

“There is so much work done

in the background, it doesn’t really stop year-round,” Mr Di Bartolomeo said.

“But the best thing about festival week is festival week. You get to see what you have achieved,” he said.

“What I love about it is it brings the community together; everyone is happy, our old people are happy. We are keeping our traditions and culture alive.”

Cheviot St, Smithfield: Pavement rehabilitation, kerb and channel and footpath works between Reed Rd and the Smithfield State High School boundary.

}For all works underway, see Council’s website, cairns.qld.gov.au

Viva la Diva - Susan Crockett-Craven, Josie Robinson and Kylie Minns - is a new act at this year’s Cairns Italian Festival. Picture: Supplied

Community

has one week

to

comment on farming proposal Beaches link started

Centre for at-risk youth

l DAINTREE

| Andree Stephens

MEMBERS of the public have one more week before submissions close on a land use application to develop a training centre for at-risk youth near the Daintree River.

The Material Change of Use (MCU) application, submitted to the Douglas Shire Council by the Jabalbina Yalanji Aboriginal Corporation, requests 200 hectares of land, known as Daintree River Station, have its rural status changed to enable the development.

In an outline of the proposal sent to the council, the plan said the development would include accommodation and facilities which would provide “agriculturally-based vocational training and other cultural and therapeutic programs”.

“The village will include various facilities to support youth development, family reconnection and the restoration of cultural identity,” the application said.

Plans for the development were submitted to the shire council in December and a notice was published on January 6 inviting public response, which closes on January 24.

The centre would include 12 accommodation units (two of which are for staff) an education centre, a chillout refuge building and facilities such as laundry, outdoor amenities block, and storage building, to be delivered over four construction stages.

The land is on a peninsula formed by a bend in the river and the development is proposed for the northern bank, opposite the Daintree Village.

Access for participants and staff would be by barge from Upper Daintree Rd to the west side of the property.

The application said the training village would support the delivery of the Queensland Government-funded ‘Intensive on Country’ (IOC) program.

l NORTHERN BEACHES

WORK has started on a $10m road linking Trinity Beach and Trinity Park.

Responding to the increasing development within and around both Trinity Beach and Trinity Park (including Bluewater), Cairns Regional Council has approved a $9.65m project to connect the northern and southern sections of Navigation Drive.

A council spokesman said the new two-lane inter-suburban connection would link Trinity Beach Rd and the Bluewater development to Reed Road in Trinity Park. It is expected to be completed by December.

“Identified by the council’s LGIP (Local Government Infrastructure Plan) as being needed by the end of 2025, the link will include a central road median and a roundabout at Shipmate Drive,” he said.

“The project will also include a significant number of trees, grassed areas, landscaping, footpaths (which will form part of the Northern Beaches Leisure Trail), street lighting and major drainage works.”

Jabalbina and the Department of Justice did not respond to requests for comment.

Jabalbina was selected by the former Labor government to conduct the IOC trial program from 2019. Following extensive auditing and review of the program, it was given further funding of $7 million in August, for 2024 to 2026. Despite reports of concerns by some Daintree residents, particularly over security, and access, a council spokeswoman said no public submissions had been lodged at this stage.

Deputy mayor Brett Olds, who represents the area, told last month’s council meeting that all stakeholders had been “waiting for this for a while”. It had been identified as a priority in the last term of the old council. He said it would make it safer for cyclists, especially children.

Our friendly medical team.

Image by City Life.

An artist’s impression of the aerial view of the proposed training centre from the south east in the Daintree. Picture: Hunt Design

City’s Indigenous arts fair returns to its roots

l EDGE HILL

| Andree Stephens

THE Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF) has come full circle with plans to bring the 16th season back to the Tanks Arts Centre where it all began.

CIAF chief executive Dennis Stokes said the move was based on feedback from artists and communities who said they “weren’t feeling it”, and that it needed to get back to its roots.

“I think for us too, we need to go back to basics and really look at what we’re doing now, and where we’re going in the future and start to rebuild that again.”

Queensland’s largest First Nations arts and cultural celebration has had several homes, including the Cairns Cruise Liner Terminal, and more recently, the Cairns Convention Centre, with satellite events held across the city as the event grew.

“The convention centre team has been great, just wonderful. They did everything possible to make sure we fit in in there,” Mr Stokes said.

Jenny bows out after 24 years

l CAIRNS CBD

| Nick Dalton

LONG-time Cairns Convention Centre senior manager Jenny Graham has retired after 24 years. She started as a researcher, progressing to director of sales and finally leaving as bid strategy manager

Ms Graham (right) said there had been three standout moments in her career:

Global recognition: Being part of the team that won the AIPC World’s Best Congress Centre award twice

The Tanks, next to the Botanical Gardens, is a beloved space with three re-purposed World War II oil tanks used for concerts and exhibitions.

CIAF will be transforming

“But yes, I think the community want it to be more community-based again. One day we will get to that level where it’s going to be a bit corporate, but it’s not at this point.”

the area into an “immersive, integrated First Nations celebration”, providing everything in the one space.

“We need to give people an experience,” Mr Stokes said. “Here, you experience nature as much as you experience art. If you’re not from the area, you will get some-

thing out of it just by looking around.”

For CIAF acting artistic director Teho Ropeyarn the Tanks venue will offer “lots of colour and lots of connectivity”.

“The professional exhibition will be positioned inside,” he said. “Tank 5 will

be a multipurpose venue, so for the opening night, the art awards, announcements and some performances (including the popular fashion show), and then along the promenade outside we’ve got the art market as well as the Eats Street and other activities throughout the site.”

All that glitters not gold

No interest by stakeholders in precious metal refinery proposal

l AEROGLEN

| Nick Dalton

STAKEHOLDERS have no appetite to pursue a gold refinery at Cairns Airport despite the economic benefits.

Cairns Local News last week revealed a secret report 14 years ago outlined the establishment of the refinery at the airport. It was later knocked back by Queensland Treasury officials. The scoping study – seen by CLN – was funded by the Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation (DEEDI) and Cairns Regional Council in 2011 and looked at ways gold flown to

Cairns from Papua New Guinea could be processed at an airportbased refinery. The report was never made public.

A Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning spokeswoman said “further exploration into the gold refinery project by the Queensland Government is unlikely at this stage due to uncertainties surrounding the Cairns Airport, including current investment and development”.

Cairns Airport chief executive officer Richard Barker said no parties had approached the airport regarding the refinery project.

“The Cairns Airport team

works closely with a range of stakeholders and we are always prepared to consider new proposals, however we seek to explore projects that align closely with our company purpose: sustainably growing our aviationrelated business to support the growth of our community,” he said.

“A number of major works are currently underway at Cairns Airport, including the $60 million eastern aviation precinct, which will provide new, resilient infrastructure for local operators, and the SkyHaven short-term accommodation facility, addressing the critical shortage affecting many

sectors and employers.”

A council spokeswoman said, while the council contributed to the original scoping study in 2011, the concept of a gold refinery at the airport would primarily fall under the purview of state departments, such as the Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation (or its current equivalent), alongside relevant stakeholders like Cairns Airport and industry representatives.

“(The) council’s role in such initiatives is typically limited to providing support where appropriate, rather than leading or updating studies of this nature,” she said.

“Any further exploration of this idea would require coordination and commitment from those directly involved in gold production and refining, as well as government and private sector stakeholders.”

The proposal, not only looked at a refinery at the airport, but associated value-added ventures such as coin manufacturing, gold trading and storage, jewellery sales and tourism.

At the time of the report, capital estimates for the refinery were $10.7 million with an additional allowance of $2m of seed capital for tourism and retail activities.

In the first year $22m would be added to the region’s economy.

• Valuable connections: The richness of connections made with global industry colleagues and clients, including working with Nobel laureates and world-leading researchers

• Centre expansion: Witnessing the completion of the $176 million expansion and refurbishment of the centre.

“The city has become more sophisticated, with new business events infrastructure, including hotels, tour options, offsite venues and an additional 10,500 sqm of space at the refurbished convention centre,” Ms Graham said.

“I feel that the extraordinary produce grown in the region and the richness of cultural experiences are finally being recognised.

“It has been an absolute honour to work with ASM Global at the Cairns Convention Centre. I can’t thank management enough for the opportunities I have been afforded and for allowing me to transition slowly to a fulfilling retirement,” Ms Graham said.

Centre general manager Janet Hamilton said “we are incredibly grateful for Jenny’s dedication and hard work over the past 24 years”.

Ms Graham plans to enjoy leisure travel, hill climbing, visiting the Reef and spending time with friends and family.

CIAF boss Dennis Stokes (left), fashion coordinator Lynelle Flinders and acting artistic director Teho Ropeyarn at the Tanks Art Centre where CIAF will be staged this year. Picture: Andree Stephens

Australia Day ceremony being held on January 24 so all can enjoy long weekend

Earlier date for special event

l DOUGLAS SHIRE

| Nick Dalton

IN a break from tradition, this year’s Douglas Shire Australia Day Awards ceremony at Port Douglas will be held on Friday, January 24.

Mayor Lisa Scomazzon said she welcomed the decision to stage the popular annual event a few days earlier than normal.

“The date change means we

can come together to celebrate the contributions of individuals in the community on late Friday afternoon and then enjoy the rest of the Australia Day long weekend with family and friends,” she said. “(The) council hopes the Friday scheduling will make it more appealing for award nominees, and the broader community, to attend this special event.”

Cr Scomazzon said the Aus-

tralia Day Awards panel chose the recipients from a quality field.

“It was impressive, but not surprising, to find there are so many people giving so much of their time to the Douglas Shire,” she said.

“I look forward to celebrating their efforts in the new year.”

She told last month’s council meeting that the recipients were “very deserving”.

Cr Scomazzon said the

awards recognised the volunteers in the shire “who do a really good job”.

Cr Damian Meadows said there were “very good applicants” and that “good people will justifiably receive recognition”.

The ceremony recognises residents in various categories including:

• Citizen of the year

• Young citizen of the year

• Volunteer of the year

• Senior citizen of the year

Senior sports award

• Junior sports award

• Environmental achievement award

• Arts and cultural award.

The awards aim to recognise and honour those who have made significant impacts through their dedication and service to the Douglas Shire community.

The event, as well as a citizenship ceremony, will be held

at the Port Douglas Community Hall from 5.30pm with a light supper to follow. Families who are looking for something to do on January 26 are encouraged to attend the Mossman Pool’s Australia Day event. It will be free entry to the pool between 10am and 2pm while a complimentary sausage sizzle and drinks will be available as well. The pool can accommodate up to 200 people during this event.

Young pilot flying high

l SPEEWAH

| Isaac Colman

CENTRAL Queensland University and Mission Aviation Fellowship have helped 19-yearold Speewah resident Pierre-Noel Guntendorfer successfully pass his private pilot test recently, marking a massive milestone for his career in aviation.

A Christian-based, notfor-profit organisation, Mission Aviation Fellowship (MAF) has worked to provide aviation services for

people living in remote areas around the world for over 75 years.

Working across the globe in various places such as South Sudan, Timor-Leste, Kenya and Arnhem Land, MAF works to improve living conditions and enable thousands of families to develop safe, healthy, and productive communities.

Having completed the test at the MAF Training Centre in Mareeba, Mr Guntendorfer said his training at MAF and his studies at CQU had helped him soar.

“(This) is a massive

milestone in my aviation career,” he said.

“One I am extremely happy to have finally achieved.

“I will be working hard towards the next milestone in my journey which will be my commercial pilot’s licence.

“It has always been my dream and once I have completed my Bachelor in Aviation, I plan on flying in general aviation (GA) and then work towards becoming an airline pilot.”

He said the CQU program gave students across Australia a chance to learn to fly.

Cairns Cruising Yacht Club

Sunday | January 26 | 12:00pm - 06:00pm

Celebrate Australia Day at the Cairns Cruising Yacht Squadron with a fun-filled day for the whole family!

Join us from 12pm to 6pm for a festive event featuring live music, raff les raising money for Sailability, a BBQ, and prizes for the best-dressed attendees.

Kids will love the jumping castle and face painting, while the bigger kids can enjoy ice-cold refreshments with waterfront views. Don’t miss out on this special celebration... come and be a part of the fun!

CQU Aviation student Pierre-Noel Guntendorfer (centre) with MAF Training Centre manager Dean Giles (left) and senior flight instructor Joe Knighton (right). Picture: CQU

Looking after great wonder

Council outlines Reef Guardian works

l CASSOWARY COAST

| Nick Dalton

TWO roads in the Cassowary Coast which contributed to more than 200 tonnes of sediment degrading the Great Barrier Reef each year have been upgraded.

It included sealing and widening a 1.2km stretch of Warrami Rd and renewing existing drainage at a cost of $750,000.

Under the Reef Guardian Councils’ action plan, Blackman Rd, also at Warrami, has undergone significant improvements designed to protect the road and surrounding ecosystems during flooding events, with a focus on reducing erosion and managing stormwater run-off more effectively.

The upgrades involved modifications to the road design and water flow management systems, specifically aimed at reducing surface scour and minimising material loss during major flood events.

Division 5 Councillor Jeff Baines said that in July 2024, a 2km stretch of Blackman Rd received rehabilitation and stabilisation.

“Previously, the road experienced scouring and flooding issues, which deposited sediment and gravel, contributing to runoff that affected the adjacent nationally listed wetlands and waterways in the Wet Tropics,” he said.

“(The) council partnered

SUMMARY OF PROJECTS

CASSOWARY Coast Council’s Reef Guardian Councils’ action plan has resulted in a wide variety of environmental initiatives come to life over the past year.

They include:

• The collection of 3.5 tonnes of marine debris over six community beach clean-up events across the Cassowary Coast region

• Solar power infrastructure installation currently underway at Cardwell Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) and Innisfail Shire Hall

• Sealing and stabilising 2km of Blackman and Warrami roads to prevent

with Reef Guardian Councils to develop strategies focused on protecting the environment and minimising the harmful impact of sediment on our ecosystem.”

The upgrades included lowering the road to accommodate natural floodplain flows and stabilising areas adjacent to existing floodways.

“The Blackman Rd project is expected to reduce sediment run off by up to 200 tonnes per event and mitigate the impact of larger storm-based erosion events,” said Cr Baines.

“(The) council will continue to monitor the road’s performance, especially as we head

an annual loss of more than 200 tonnes of sediment out to the Reef

• Seagrass restoration collaborative efforts in Mourilyan Harbour led with James Cook University (JCU) and Traditional Owners

• The Kurrimine and Cowley foreshore management plan adopted in September 2024 to ensure sustainable development and environmental protection in these key beachside communities

• Warrina Lakes wetlands restoration planning underway for the rejuvenation of the wetland ecosystem.

into the wet season, to ensure its effectiveness and adjust if necessary,” he said.

The project is part of the council’s unsealed road improvement plan and the Reef Guardian Councils’ action plan, which aim to improve road formation and drainage designs while addressing challenges in the Wet Tropics Road network.

Funding for this project has been provided to Cassowary Coast Regional Council from the Australian Government to enable Reef Guardian Councils to deliver projects and activities identified in their Reef Action Plans.

Cr Jeff Baines on stabilised Blackman Rd at Warrami. Picture: Cassowary Coast Regional Council

Lettersto the editor

Vocal Local join our online debate be

Dr Hugh Spencer, Australian Tropical Research Foundation, Cape Tribulation

David Anthony, Bungalow

Anna Sandor, Trinity Beach

Bob Weeks, Redlynch

What a fascinating story and what a shame it never went further. Imagine the savings in freight costs between Cairns and Perth. Gold is incredibly heavy.

- John Nicholas, Facebook

Would be a magnet for criminals. Not sure they need more choice.

- Maja Korver, Facebook

Very interesting, thanks for sharing.

- Paul Bryan, Facebook

This study could have added another bow to the city’s economy. Not only refining the gold but drawing visitors and tourists to an information centre about gold and the history of gold in Cairns and Papua New Guinea. There is also coin and jewellery

Werner Schmidlin, Yorkeys Knob

manufacturing as well as gold trading. What an opportunity lost. Surely it should be considered again.

- Susan Smith, Facebook

Why would the government and the council pay for a study then take it no further? And why was it hidden from the public? This is something completely different and interesting from the norm.

- Richard Brown, Facebook

It’s a no-brainer. The concept of a new facility in Australia challenges the established processes and business links across the region. However, amidst another gold boom opportunities are presented again, with Cairns located strategically in the growth area.

- Joe Stalin, Facebook

Sharyn Chin Fat, Cancer Council Queensland’s head of prevention and early detection

Gazza’s Gossip

Douglas stars shine in Cairns

l PORT DOUGLAS

TWO Douglas Shire residents, Narelle Spencer and Stephen Bigby, have recently played key roles in ‘Come From Away’ a Cairns Choral Society musical production that started earlier in January and has, this week, provided further performances at the Cairns Performing Arts Centre.

There is just one remaining matinee performance and evening show tomorrow, Saturday January 18.

Narelle has lived in Cooya Beach for 18 years and Stephen, for a number of years in Mossman. Both are well known in the Douglas Shire, having appeared in many performances at the Clink Theatre and, outside of their acting interests, they are both valued workers at Mossman Hospital.

I was privileged to have both of these talented people on my radio show this week and having seen signs for the musical around Port Douglas.

I was intrigued to know where the name ‘Come From Away’ originated from, what this meant and what the musical was all about.

To help explain, it is probably easier to start with a description of the musical itself, which was inspired by the extraordinary events of September 11, 2001.

The story itself is more related to the following day, September 12, after 38 planes were forced out of US air space the day before and were unexpectedly diverted to the small town of Gander in Canada’s most easterly province, Newfoundland. Overnight, the town’s population doubled following the unexpected arrival of 7000 stranded passengers.

Nicknamed ‘come from aways’, the plane people find themselves welcomed

into the open arms of the ‘Islander’ locals who rallied together, providing shelter, food and comfort in the wake of the global tragedy and one of the 21st century’s darkest days.

Newfoundland originally got its name from New Finland. Locals would refer to visitors as people who had ‘come from away’.

Another question I had for my guests was how such a tragic event, arguably one of the world’s worst, could result in an upbeat musical?

Being more about the events of September 12, Narelle explained, than the tragic events of 9/11, the story demonstrates the resilience of the human spirit, highlighting how kindness and compassion shines brightest in adversity.

This is a quality every Far North Queenslander has experienced, most recently following the catastrophic floods in the aftermath of Tropical Cyclone Jasper.

To further enhance this, apart from the superb acting, the onstage band has also been hitting its high notes with a musical score that blends traditional musical theatre styles with Newfoundland-inspired orchestrations that echo the region’s Irish influences.

Thus far, the shows have been a great success and readers hoping to score a last-minute ticket for tomorrow’s performances should visit www.ticketlink.com.au

I’m off to break a leg or as they say Down Under in the theatrical world, chookas, so for now it’s Gazza signing out.

Send youR stories to gazza@ cairnslocalnews.com.au

Douglas Shire performers Narelle Spencer and Stephen Bigby. Picture: Gary ‘Gazza’ McIlroy Top and above: The cast on stage at the Cairns Performing Arts Centre. Pictures: Supplied

Dos

Advice about dogs in pools

l MAINTENANCE TIPS

A SINGLE dog in a household pool is equivalent to having three or more people swimming at once, as they introduce more contaminants into the water than humans. When dogs swim, they affect the pool’s pH levels, requiring more chlorine to maintain sanitisation.

Fur, oils, and dirt can all lead to imbalances, and dogs also bring particles like dander, and even small traces of faecal matter.

This can lead to the spread of recreational water illnesses (RWIs), including E. coli, Giardia, Hepatitis A, and Cryptosporidium.

Dog hair, especially from long or double-coated breeds, can shed into the water, entering and clogging pool filters, skimmers, and pumps.

Clogged filters not only reduce the efficiency of the pool’s filtration system but also place additional strain on the pump, potentially reducing its lifespan.

Regular cleaning of the skimmer basket, pump basket,

and filter is crucial if your dog regularly swims in your backyard pool.

Checking equipment frequently can help prevent hair and other contaminants from impacting water flow and filtration.

The best way to ensure a safe and healthy pool is regular water testing and proper chemical balancing.

Here are some essential maintenance tips to ensure all family members can have a summer of fun.

• Test your pool water at least once a week to ensure your pH levels are correct

• Regularly check your pool filter and equipment in case of fur build up

• Clear out your skimmer basket by scooping out any debris your dog may bring in

• Keep an eye on your pets while they are swimming

• Treat your water with Shock N Swim from Poolwerx. Additional tips to keep dogs safe

Provide fresh drinking water: While it’s generally safe for dogs to ingest small

amounts of pool water, large quantities can upset their stomach. Keep fresh drinking water nearby to discourage pool drinking

• Supervise your pet: Not all dogs are natural swimmers, and even those that are, may tire quickly. Supervise your dog to prevent accidents and keep swimming sessions short

• Set up alternative cooling options: To minimise wear on your pool’s filtration system, consider using a shallow kiddie pool or sprinkler as a refreshing alternative for your dog on hot days

• Sanitiser levels: Maintain proper chlorine levels to neutralise bacteria like E. coli and other germs that could cause RWIs. Poolwerx offers free water testing to help you monitor these levels effectively

• Rinse your dog before swimming: Rinsing your dog with fresh water before they enter the pool helps remove oils, dirt, and loose hair, reducing the amount of contaminants they bring into the water.

TimeOut

Word is on the street

Talented teenage photographers launch their exhibition tonight

l CAIRNS CBD

| Isaac Colman

EXPERIENCED photojournal-

ist Brian Cassey has praised the work of 10 teenage photographers whose work goes on display in Cairns tonight.

Photography enthusiasts among the youth of Cairns have had a chance to explore the world of photojournalism, documenting social and cultural happenings in their everyday lives, with their work being on display at Cairns Court House Gallery from today at 6pm.

The young photojournalists aged 15-17 worked under the guidance of Mr Cassey and Cairns Local News cadet journalist Isaac Colman, exploring the world of photojournalism as they set their own assignments.

A perfect companion exhibition to Brian Cassey’s A Photographer’s Life Part Three and Head On Foundation’s Paper Tigers, Word on the Street offers a local documentation of Cairns through the eyes of the youth.

Involved closely with participants, Mr Cassey said he was surprised by the quality of work of participants.

“They had really excelled themselves,” he said.

“The entirety of work I had received was surprising and interesting.”

Meeting at Trinity Bay State High School each Wednesday participants shared and discussed different pieces they had captured while considering various elements and factors of photojournalism.

Having worked extensively

with the high school for almost a decade, Mr Cassey said he hoped the program continued.

“It’s beautiful to see students embracing it,” he said.

“I thoroughly enjoy interact-

ing with students from Trinity Bay State High School, as well as students from throughout the region.

“I’ve judged the Trinity Bay State High School photographic

portrait prize for nine years.

“Every year, the work gets better than the last.”

Mr Cassey said it was refreshing to see students consider feedback, understand it and

implicate it into their piece.

“I thoroughly enjoyed it,” he said.

“It’s a great opportunity, for me as a lifetime photographer, to give something back.”

GET ready to feel the sun on your face and the breeze in your hair.

Musician Jack Botts is bringing his signature surf-folk sound to Cairns this February.

Fresh off a sell-out European tour, he is set to deliver a show of the kind of tunes that make you want to hit the road with the windows down, with laid-back acoustic guitar melodies, breezy rhythms and warm, raspy vocals.

Over the past year, Botts has released four singles, with ‘Get Through’ being a stand-out. It follows the success of tracks like ‘Hand-Me-Down Heart’, ‘Called To Say Hey’, and ‘Anywhere’.

Jack Botts quickly made the transition from busking the streets to a full-time touring musician.

Based out of the Gold Coast, Australia, he has worked hard on the road since 2018, finding and building his audience in pubs, bars and theatres to selling out rooms around the world.

Catch Jack’s intimate live show on Saturday, February 15, at the Cairns Performing Arts Studio at 7.30pm. Tickets on sale now via Ticketlink.

Young photographer Riley Stannard takes a picture of the abandoned White’s Shed at the Port of Cairns, documenting the region’s history and what is left behind. Picture: Laura Baranyl

Musician Jack Botts.

Picture: Kieran Tunbridge

Theatre skills program an opportunity for accomplished First Nations people

Courses to open stage doors

l CAIRNS CBD

NEW short courses in theatre skills will open stage doors for enthusiastic young First Nations people in Far North Queensland dreaming of careers in theatre arts.

The Department of Trade, Employment and Training has funded the roll-out of six new micro-credentials in theatre skills in February – three in acting and three in technical skills – to help address the skills shortage in the industry with First Nations talent.

CQUniversity, in conjunction with JUTE Theatre Company and Cairns Regional Council, will provide the free micro-credentials, known as the Binalmalmal (listening and learning) – skills for theatre training program.

CQUniversity’s Indigenous engagement officer Diane Parter said it was a fantastic way for First Nations theatre enthusiasts to get their start in the industry.

“It’s a great opportunity for First Nations people in Far North Queensland to gain a cross-section of skills in a growing industry where there is a great need for Indigenous faces and voices,” she said.

CQU’s associate lecturer in theatre and music Patty Preece said the Cairns-based training program would focus on stage

and technical skills, providing a transformative experience for a sector of the community currently underrepresented in the industry.

“Participants in the program will not only gain valuable skills but also learn to work collaboratively as a team, fostering the development of peer-to-peer networks and job readiness skills,” she said.

“The students will earn digital badges through the microcredential training, which will enhance their confidence and ability to articulate their skills for further education, training and employment.”

Previous research by CQU and JUTE identified an underrepresentation of First Nations people in both on-stage and behind-thescenes roles, which has also been raised by Arts Queensland and the creative industry sector more broadly.

JUTE artistic director Suellen Maunder said the company was excited to partner in the microcredential program, which will address the need for more diverse representation across all roles in the theatre space.

“JUTE has a strong First Nations focus and is central to its award-winning residency and touring program, Dare to Dream, that uses theatre to deliver strong and powerful messages, em-

powerment and the importance of creative endeavour. JUTE is therefore constantly engaging with and sourcing Indigenous actors and stage crew,” she said.

JUTE’s First Nations creative producer Monica Stevens said that she had been in discussions with many people about the need to build the capacity of First Nations people, not only for JUTE’s Dare to Dream program, but for the entire theatre sector of the future, and the cultural program for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

“Micro-credentials will be crucial in developing a new theatre workforce in North Queensland. These credentials offer exciting opportunities to young people, reducing the need to hire workers from southern areas for future projects,” she said.

The micro-credentials involve face-to-face classroom course delivery, online course content, and a two-week intensive component with hands-on skill building at Bulmba-Ja.

The hands-on component is anticipated to culminate in a showcase event, enabling students to gain real-world experience and demonstrate skills to a live audience.

Expressions of interest are now invited by visiting https://bit.ly/4h7Lp13 or emailing d.parter@cqu.edu.au

Oscar Wilde, perhaps, set the standard when it came to witty sophisticated Period Comedy, especially with his very successful play, “The Importance of being Earnest”, and this is a similar rollicking comedy. Once again it features the ‘possible’ love life of young couples as they negotiate the allowed courtship of the period, and the acceptable dalliances therein. Complications arise when the chaperone fails to appear, causing one of the funniest early ‘cross-dressing’ situations to be seen on stage. Confusion, passion, intrigue and innuendo abound in this very funny two act comedy set in the rooms and grounds of a prestigious college, with the butler/valet facilitating the entire catastrophe.

First Nations student Xenia Parter with Indigenous stage technician Eben Love. Picture: Supplied

TimeOut

Hello tiger, he’s back

Richard Clapton to play CPAC’s stage

l CAIRNS CBD

| Andree Stephens

FROM ‘Girls on the Avenue’, to ‘Goodbye Tiger’, Richard Clapton’s songs have played on repeat in the heads of teenagers since the 70s, and next month Cairns audiences can re-visit those magical years.

The Australian singer-songwriter-guitarist will bring his music to the Cairns Performing Arts Centre (CPAC), teasing out timeless songs from across the decades.

“What I’m going to play, I honestly don’t know, but fortunately for Cairns there’s quite a few gigs before I get there, so I can refine,” the ARIA Hall of Famer said last week, as he prepared for this latest tour.

“According to APRA (Australasian Performing Right Association), I’ve recorded 264 songs. It gets harder and harder every year to decide.

“I can’t play every song, but they’ll hear the old and the new,” he promised. “I have a nine-song handicap, which is songs that have charted, so I cannot do a show without those songs.”

Will be entertaining

What Cairns can expect is a lengthy and entertaining night, where Clapton plays some acoustic, then brings on the band, whose members have worked with him across his career.

Songs will be interspersed with anecdotes about his colourful journey through the heady Australian rock scene of the 70s, 80s and beyond.

It began when a young Clapton, disillusioned with the political landscape and the barren wasteland of music in Australia, moved to London and then Germany in the late-1960s and early 70s, living the troubadour life. It was also where he penned his first album ‘Prussian Blue’.

But after reading about “a young man called Gough Whitlam”, he said Australia was “looking better and better”.

On the voyage home, he also learned of recent Australian music including, he said, one of the best songs he’d ever heard, ‘Eagle Rock’ by Daddy Cool.

It was not long before Clapton was signed by a subsidiary of Festival Records and released Prussian Blue. But while the album received solid support over years of sales, as well as establishing him as a musician’s musician, it was not a chart topper and Clapton was under pressure to have a hit.

One night in Rose Bay, where he lived with friend Col (and festival employee), the two were walking home from a wine bar and “three pretty girls were calling out and waving to us” from their balcony. They lived on The Avenue.

Girls on the Avenue

“I got home, I’d had a few drinks, and wrote Girls on the Avenue quite quickly believe it or not, I even amazed myself.”

But not all was right. Enter the wicked Richard Clapton anecdote.

“Festival had this committee ... to select that week’s releases, and they kept rejecting ‘Girls on the Avenue’. Colin was getting increasingly agitated,” he recalled.

“Meanwhile unbeknownst to Festival, Colin was going to lunch with Ron and Marius who founded Double J. One fateful day, they got rotten drunk, Colin came back to Festival, had a big altercation and quit.

“He became the first music programmer on Double J,” Clapton laughed.

Played over and over

“Colin played Girls on the Avenue every hour and the major radio stations heard it and picked it up and there you go. It went to number one. It’s sold hundreds and thousands of records, over 40 years or so.”

As for the belief that it was a song about working girls, Clapton only realised that was the interpretation when he was mobbed by a fan group of working women after a gig in Adelaide.

“That urban myth stuck until this century,” he said.

The song launched him into the thick of the Australian music scene at a time when legends were emerging across the country: Kelly, Cave, Sunnyboys, INXS, Cold Chisel, the Oils, Dragon, the list goes on.

He agreed those day-long outdoor concerts and pub gatherings had a sense of unity for bands and crowds alike. The bands were all mates, not the rivals the record industry would foster, and life-long friendships were made.

Great camaraderie

“The camaraderie from those days was just unbelievable,” he said.

An example was when INXS approached Clapton to produce their second album, in Underneath the Colours, which included the seminal single, ‘Stay Young’.

“That was the start of a 45year friendship with John Farris,” he said. (Farris produced Clapton’s 1987 album, ‘Glory Road’.)

The cross-pollination of band members in Clapton’s music was a who’s who of leading Australian musicians. He happily spilled the beans on a last century secret now out in the open – Cold Chisel featured across songs on his album ‘Great Escape’ in 1982.

I Fought the Law

“Ian Moss loved ‘I am an Island’ and wanted to play on it. All those guitars on the album, they’re mostly Mossy. Jimmy did vocals on I am an Island, and Don Walker played piano on ‘I Fought the Law’,” Richard said.

“Chisel’s manager called (the record label) and demanded their contributions be removed from the album.

“Paul Turner (head of the label) said ‘over my dead body ... it sounds great,’ and they had a big falling out.

“The compromise was to recall all of the album covers back from the printers, and take Cold Chisel’s names off the album,” Richard continued chuckling.

“Mossy was upset with me when he saw he had no mention until I told him to go talk to his manager.”

It’s been 50 years since Richard Clapton released Girls on the Avenue.

He will be returning to the Far North on February 8 to perform at CPAC.

The Great British Songbook

Craig Martin performs some of the greatest hits from the UK. This is a musical Brit-Pop feast not to be missed!

MONDAY 3 MARCH

Great Women of Country

Melinda Schneider, six-time Golden Guitar Award winner, performs songs from country music’s greatest female singers.

MONDAY 31 MARCH

From Stage to Screen

Jonathon Welch AM, award winning singer and conductor, lends his voice to favourite songs from the stage and screen.

MONDAY 2 JUNE

For the Love of Tony & Friends

Chris Lloyds sings Tony Bennet

MONDAY 11 AUGUST

Wonder

From award-winning creators, comes a brand-new show celebrating some of the greatest hit singles in the world!

MONDAY 13 OCTOBER

Home for Christmas

Darren Coggan celebrates the festive spirit of Christmas in Australia through a collection of songs and stories.

MONDAY 1 DECEMBER

WHAT’S

ANXIETY @ CAIRNS ART GALLERY

l FRI JAN 17TH, 10:00AM-2:00PM

During a residency funded by the Double R Arts Foundation, Jason Wegger produced a series of drawings composed in a circular format that foreshadow the end of the world in ten stages. Simply using graphite on paper, each drawing delivers a bracing dystopian commentary for the artist: “Our world operates to devalue everything, so when everything becomes meaningless and worthless, the machines stop working, structures collapse, populations die off, extinction ensues. The planet is now a churning, giant drain-hole in outer space littering the vast blackness with the debris of a broken-up humanity.”

This exhibition has been supported through a Cairns RSL Club Artist Fellowship Award

AUSSIE PUB COMEDY TOUR @ ELLIS BEACH

l SAT JAN 18TH, 6:30PM-8:30PM

Featuring 2 of Melbourne’s best comedians: Bev Killick and Doug Chappel. Both comedians have been in the industry for over 20 years. The night will also feature 2 local comedians: Macca and Crawf, who are fast on the rise in the Australian comedy scene. Both lads have struck a chord with local audiences due to their unique Far North Queensland sense of humour!

Don’t miss out, book your tickets today via eventbrite.com

SPIRIT OF CAIRNS @ CAIRNS MARLIN MARINA

l DAILY, 6:30PM-9:O0PM

A Spirit of Cairns dinner cruise is the perfect way to end a perfect day in paradise. Board the sailing catamaran and enjoy an evening of calm water cruising on Trinity Inlet, taking in the sights and sounds of this tropical port city and its surrounds as they transition to night.

Live music is back onboard Cairns’ only dinner cruise - for a limited time, join us on Sundays in January and enjoy live entertainment as you cruise the stunning Trinity Inlet.

Don’t forget to take advantage of our special local rate. Book your spot now: https://bit.ly/485IZuf

HIGH TEA @ PULLMAN CAIRNS INTERNATIONAL

l SAT JAN 18TH, 11:00AM-1:00PM

The delectably evil Lord Chef Simon & the Dark Side kitchen team has unleashed a high tea of galactic proportions, from the far reaches of space. But hope remains – where Chef Jedi Dolphy counters with his own creations, striving to bring balance to the flavours. This January and February, join the adventure as these two forces collide in the Dark Side High Tea, a galactic experience that’s truly out of this world. May the flavour be with you! When: Thu-Sun, from January 2nd until March 3rd. Where: Kingsford Lounge, Pullman Cairns International

Cost: High Tea plus 2 hours package of sparkling wine $99pp Dark Side High Tea $69pp without wine. Kids High Tea available for $39pp

TWILIGHT FILMS @ MULGRAVE GALLERY

l FRI JAN 17TH, 6:00PM

Join us on Fridays throughout summer as we boot up the projector for free outdoor film screenings on the Mulgrave Gallery lawn.

Expect an eclectic range of films celebrating global storytelling, Aussie culture, cult classics and art house gems. If the weather is looking iffy, pack your poncho and your brollies, or get in early to nab a spot undercover on the back veranda – films will be going ahead rain or (star)shine. BYO picnic rug or chair (and picnic of course), and let’s all settle in for Mulgrave Twilight Films. Films start at 7.00pm, cost is free.

COME FROM AWAY @ CPAC

l FRI JAN 17TH, 7:30PM (MATINEE 2PM)

When 38 airplanes are forced to land on a small island in Newfoundland, their 7,000 passengers and crew immediately double the population of the town of Gander. Totally unequipped to deal with the influx of stranded travellers, the Islanders spring into action to house, feed, clothe, and comfort the ‘come from aways’.

Closes Saturday 18th – last change to book your tickets for this amazing theatre event.

Tickets via ticketlink

GIG Guide

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

FRIDAY 17TH

Dunwoody’s Shannae Sclippa, 4:00pm

Salt House Amber Farnan, 5:00pm

Ellis Beach Bar & Grill DrewBoy, 5:30pm

Innisfail RSL Two Dogs Music, 6:00pm

Trinity Beach Sports Club Lexi & Waha, 6:00pm

Boardwalk Social SAX MAN - Troy Stevens, 6:30pm

Cazalys Rowly Band, 6:30pm

Brothers Leagues Club Innisfail Cassady Connection, 7:00pm

The Pier Bar DJ Jackz, 7:30pm

Paddy’s Irish Pub Rob Longstaff, 8:00pm

Rattle’N’Hum Palm Cove Kaweyova, 8:00pm

Salt House DJ Matt Caseli, 8:00pm

The Pier Bar Flavour, 8:00pm

Rattle’N’Hum Cairns Sanchez Brothers, 8:30pm

BAR36 Big Noise, 9:00pm

Gilligan’s The Vibez, 9:30pm

P.J.O’Brien’s Cairns GTA, 9:30pm

P.J.O’Brien’s Cairns DJ Nakji, 10:00pm

SATURDAY 18TH

Ellis Beach Bar & Grill Nicole Nighthawk, 2:00pm

Salt House Groove Therapy, 5:00pm

Boardwalk Social Callum Brauer, 6:30pm

Cazalys Big Jim, 6:30pm

Brothers Leagues Club Cairns INFINITY DUO, 7:00pm

Trinity Beach Tavern Wind and Wood, 7:00pm

The Pier Bar DJ Moose, 7:30pm

Paddy’s Irish Pub Rob Longstaff, 8:00pm Palm Cove Tavern Two Dogs Music, 8:00pm

Rattle’N’Hum Palm Cove Bourban Gorillas, 8:00pm Red Beret Tropic Thunder, 8:00pm

Salt House DJ Moose, 8:00pm The Pier Bar Sanchez, 8:00pm

Rattle’N’Hum Cairns Kaweyova, 8:30pm BAR36 Big Noise, 9:00pm

P.J.O’Brien’s Cairns GTA, 9:30pm

P.J.O’Brien’s Cairns DJ Syntax, 10:00pm

SUNDAY 19TH

Ellis Beach Bar & Grill Ivy Amara, 1:00pm Paddy’s Irish Pub Gregg Buchanan, 1:30pm Dunwoody’s Rebecca Langtree, 2:00pm Narrow Tracks Distilling Amber Farnan, 2:00pm Surf Club Palm Cove Nicole Nighthawk, 2:00pm

Rattle’N’Hum Palm Cove Johnny Sanchez, 3:00pm Yorkeys Knob Boating Club INFINITY DUO, 3:00pm

Boardwalk Social Zdenek, 4:00pm O’Sheas Barbary Coasters, 4:00pm

The Pier Bar DJ Zaccu, 4:30pm

Paddy’s Irish Pub Shannon Hunter, 5:00pm

Salt House Anais Campbell, 5:00pm

The Pier Bar Flavour, 5:00pm

BAR36 MOJITO, 5:30pm Spirit of Cairns The Vibez, 6:00pm

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

Take a minute... Puzzles for you

Solutions

Travel

Do

Rely on yourself and you will look good to superiors. You will have a problem sorting out your true feelings when it comes to your relationship. Take your time. Don’t try to twist things around so that they sound more enticing.

CROSSWORD

You mustn’t be so trusting. Find ways to mellow out. Your mate may want to pick a fight but if you’re persistent with your affections, their anger should dissipate. Romance may be better than you ever thought possible.

You need to take a long, hard look at yourself and your personal situation. Don’t let situations get out of control. Channel your energy into projects that will enhance your home. Friends may not be completely honest with you.

Plan a trip to the country or take a drive to the beach. Travel opportunities should be your first choice. You can make money if you get involved in real estate deals. Real estate investments could be to your advantage.

Don’t gossip. Go out with friends. If boredom has set in, find new and unique directions that offer interesting friendships. If you keep busy you won’t feel the personal pressures you are going through.

You are best not to confront situations that deal with in-laws or relatives. You can gain valuable cultural knowledge through dealing with foreigners. Romantic opportunities will flourish through travel or communication. You could be attracting individuals who are anything but good for you.

Plan to get together with someone special later in the day. You may have the opportunity to get involved in some interesting conversations. You can make personal changes that will enhance your appearance and bring about greater social activity. Don’t push your luck with your boss.

20. a nocturnal insect closely related to butterflies (4)

22. having light-colored hair (4-6)

25. capital letters (9)

26. to suggest something without directly stating it (5)

27. a small, slender insect that feeds on plants (5)

28. a large, herbivorous dinosaur that lived during the Early Cretaceous period (9) DOWN

1. having a defined shape (5)

2. the former name of Saint Petersburg, Russia (9)

3. a torture device historically used to crush the thumb (10)

4. relating to milk (7)

Do not get involved with individuals who are already committed to others. Don’t delay; go to your physician or dentist and get to the bottom of the discomfort. You could easily lose your temper at work. Don’t push your opinions or ideas on others. Be sure to take care of any minor ailments.

ACROSS

1. exaggerated stories (4,5)

6. a large, colorful parrot native to Central and South America (5)

9. a large, flightless bird native to South America, similar to an ostrich or emu (5)

10. a noisy, mocking celebration (9)

11. a type of beetle known for rolling and burying dung (4,6)

to undermine you. Money can be made if you use your ingenuity. Don’t use emotional blackmail on someone you love.

12. the state bird of Hawaii (4)

14. a medium-sized wild cat with a slender build, long legs, and distinctive tufted ears (7)

15. a marine fish found in warm coastal waters, known for its flat, silvery body (7)

17. most neat (7)

19. a large, gentle aquatic mammal, also known as a sea cow (7)

5. a type of shellfish known for its fan-shaped, ribbed shells and delicate, edible meat (7)

6. to severely injure someone (4)

7. a large, tall machine used for lifting and moving heavy objects (5)

8. a symbol of peace, a white bird (5,4)

13. a correction made to a text (10)

14. a term used to refer to a wild cat (9)

16. an invertebrate animal characterized by its exoskeleton, segmented body, and jointed appendages (9)

18. the plural form of thalamus (7)

19. refers to Marcel Marceau (7)

21. a large, herbivorous mammal with a short trunk, native to Central and South America, and Southeast Asia (5)

23. the most respected person in a particular field (5)

24. an acronym for “preparatory”

Interest rate cuts predicted

But Ray White

l INDUSTRY NEWS

| Nick Dalton

INTEREST rates in Australia have stayed high through 2024 even though other countries have started cutting theirs.

Ray White chief economist Nerida Conisbee said this was mainly because Australia’s economy had held up quite well.

“We’re not in a recession and plenty of people still have jobs. However, many households are feeling the strain of high living costs,” she said.

“Looking ahead to 2025, financial markets think the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) will cut interest rates twice in the second half of the year. But this prediction could change depending on how things play out.

“Several factors will influence when and how much the RBA cuts rates.

“The most important is inflation. While it’s now back within the RBA’s target range, there are risks it could rise again.

“One big unknown is what happens in the United States. With Donald Trump winning the presidential election, this will boost government spending and put

chief economist says it will depend on economy and Trump

high taxes on Chinese goods.

“This could push up prices worldwide, including in Australia, making it harder for the RBA to cut rates.

“The health of Australia’s economy is another key factor. If people start spending less in shops, house prices fall significantly, or unemployment begins to rise, the RBA might need to cut rates sooner than planned. They’ll be watching these signs closely throughout the year.

“But if the economy keeps doing well and inflation stays under control, the RBA will probably stick to its careful approach. This means making small, well-spaced cuts rather than rushing to lower rates quickly.

“The rising cost of living is putting pressure on the RBA to provide some relief to households through lower rates.

“However, they’ll want to be sure that cutting rates won’t cause inflation to pick up again. They’ll need to balance helping struggling households against keeping inflation under control.

“In summary, while rate cuts are likely in 2025, their timing and size will depend on how inflation behaves, what happens in the global economy (especially in the US), and how well the Australian economy holds up through the year.”

Ray White chief economist Nerida Conisbee believes there will be two interest rate cuts this year. Picture: Supplied

Motoring

Interest rates and high cost of living to take its toll on vehicle sales in 2025

Tough outlook after record

l SALES REPORT

| Nick Dalton

A NEW record for vehicle sales in 2024 is receiving a subdued reaction from the industry as consumers face a tough start to 2025 caused by economic and political challenges.

The monthly December VFACTS result showed that 95,895 new vehicles were sold during the month, 2.7 per cent lower than the same period in 2023. This resulted in 1,220,607 new vehicle sales for the full year, an increase of 0.3 per cent on 2024 and the best result recorded in Australia.

Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries chief executive Tony Weber said that, while very strong sales in the first half of 2024 set up the full-year result, the momentum in the market was lost as the year progressed.

“The second half of the year showed a concerning trend with sales in the private segment falling to very low levels as interest rates and general cost of living

pressures impacted Australian families,” he said.

“Customers are also increasingly making choices regarding environmental outcomes and the associated total cost of ownership of moving to low emissions technologies.

“So, while the sales of battery electric vehicles are lower than expected, this is offset to a degree by an increasing number of buyers turning to hybrid and plug-in hybrid models which make up 14.1 per cent and 1.9 per cent of the total market respectively.

“While overall consumer preferences remain clear with SUVs and light commercial vehicles continuing to dominate the market and, especially the top 10 sales, many vehicles in these segments are either difficult or expensive to decarbonise. This will prove to be a significant challenge in meeting the extremely ambitious targets of the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES) which began on January 1.

“The industry is responding to

NVES by increasing the range of zero and low emission vehicles on offer. However, a continuation of current customer buying preferences will inevitably lead to the accrual of substantial penalties under the government’s new scheme, which will create price inflation within the new vehicle market.”

Mr Weber said lower than expected sales results for battery electric vehicles were being replicated in a number of major markets around the world.

“Manufacturers in the UK, Europe and the USA are under pressure because they have made huge investments to manufacture EVs, but customers are not buying them in the numbers needed to meet emission targets and to provide a return on investment,” he said.

For the calendar year 2024, Toyota was the biggest selling brand with sales of 241,296 and 19.8 per cent market share followed by Ford (100,170/8.2 per cent) and Mazda (95,987/7.9 per cent) in third place.

Mazda’s CX-5 was once again its top seller with 22,835 buyers last year. Picture: Supplied

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Friday January 17th

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

Kuranda Heritage Markets: Rob Veivers Dr, 10:00-15:30

Kuranda Rainforest Markets: 13 Therwine St, 10:00-15:00

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

Saturday January 18th

Atherton: Our Saviour Lutheran Church, 1 Golf Links Dr, 06:00-12:00

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

Kuranda Heritage Markets: Rob Veivers Dr, 10:00-15:30

Kuranda Rainforest Markets: 13 Therwine St, 10:00-15:00

Malanda Markets: Malanda Showgrounds, 07:30-12:00

Mossman Markets: 13 Foxton Ave, 07:00-13:00

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

Approval sought: Development Permit Application ref: 13205/2024

You may obtain a copy of the application and make a submission to: Cairns Regional Council PO Box 359, CAIRNS QLD 4870 council@cairns.qld.gov.au 1300 692 247 www.cairns.qld.gov.au

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Sunday January 19th

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

Kuranda Heritage Markets: Rob Veivers Dr, 10:00-15:30

Kuranda Rainforest Markets: 13 Therwine St, 10:00-15:00

Mission Beach Markets: Ulysses Park, 07:00-12:00

Port Douglas Markets: Wharf St, 08:00-13:30

Rusty’s Markets: Grafton St, Cairns, 05:00-15:00

The Pier Markets: 1 Pierpoint Road, Cairns, 09:00-14:00

Tolga Markets: Morrow Park Racecourse, 07:00-12:00

Wondecla Markets: Wondecla Showgrounds, 08:00-12:00

Women’s league starts

Good turnout to BMD trial match at Barlow Park pleases coach

l RUGBY LEAGUE

| Andree Stephens

A TRIAL match last Saturday for a position to represent Cairns in the women’s BMD League had a great turnout and a few nice surprises, according to coach Colin Wilkie.

“Overall, it went really well,” he said. “There were a couple of players who turned up who I’d heard about and they exceeded my expectations.”

He was also pleased to see the three players he had earmarked – Indianna Tillett, Etuina Suavai and Jonah Donovan – “didn’t disappoint”.

“They played as I had hoped they would,” he said.

As for the now selected extended squad, he is satisfied with the mix.

“We’ve got young and old and everything in between. I’m really pleased we’ve got a group of very experienced players in the squad.”

The Kenfrost Homes Northern Pride 2025 BMD trial game at Barlow Park also drew a good crowd of onlookers.

The match was an open trial but also included players with plenty of form, giving the crowd a chance to see what is in store for them when Northern Pride enters the state league in June for the first time.

Saturday’s match was a fantastic atmosphere,” Mr Wilkie said.

“It was a good crowd, I was surprised,” he said.

“We had about 15 girls who

are already contracted, who came to watch. And a lot were family and friends of players, but I was really pleased to see some coaches and trainers also coming to support their players.”

Since the BMD announcement in October last year, Mr Wilkie has been working hard to secure a mostly locally grown team which includes a good

Sport Results

WEST CAIRNS MEN’S

BOWLS Tuesday, January 7th. Tuesday afternoon. Winners; Yakka, N Mallyon, J Wilcox. R/U; J Burnie, B Power, J Blain. Thursday, January 9th. Thirsty Thursday.

Winners; Ray Jones, Harry Mac, Maurie Raisins, John Davidson, Edna, Geoff Smith. Friday, January 10th. Friday night Scroungers. Winner; Ann Winsor. R/U; Pauline Bent. 3rd; Steve Braggar. Sunday, January 12th. Sunday

number of state league players coming back to play for their hometown.

The trial match was the final step in developing an extended squad, which began its four-week training on Tuesday night.

“After that they will go back to their various clubs in the NQ league or finish up in the under 19s and then we regroup in

morning. Winners; S Wilson, N Kehera, A Paraha. R/U; Richo, Ted Hamilton, G Atkinson.

BROTHERS EDMONTON

BOWLS

Wednesday, January 8th. Overall Winners; A Del Favero, J Populin, R Pamphelon. Game 1. Winners; G Frizzo, M O’Halloran, R Jorgenson. Game 2. Winners; G

April,” Mr Wilkie said. Assessment for the final squad of 30 players will be based on their training, how they performed in their respective seasons, and whether there were injuries.

“We’ve got a way to go yet,” he said.

Spectator Elaine Addo, on Facebook, said it was “such a good turn out. Love watching women in league”.

Atkinson, J Jackson, R Morris. Thursday, January 9th. Consistency singles. Winners; N Kina, S Bates, L Backhouse, D Begg. Saturday, January 11th. Game 1. Winners; D Begg, R Fraser, E Atkison. Game 2. Winners; A Windsor, A Smith, K Paki.

EDGE HILL CAIRNS BOWLS Tuesday, January 7th. Men’s

New president for Crocs

l AFL | Gary ‘Gazza’ McIlroy FORMER Port Douglas Crocs

AFL operations manager Rusty Bradley has taken on the new role of club president, replacing Barry Lea.

He has been involved in footy clubs and other community organisations, but never as a club president.

“It’s going to be a new experience, but I’m looking forward to the job,” Mr Bradley (above) said.

The new secretary is Emelia Rockcliff, who will bring a young and energetic approach to the committee, while vice-president Matt Laskey is expected to provide some new fresh ideas to help move the club forward. Other committee members include long time treasurer John Cameron, former president Rob Barnett and ex-champion footballer Jim Buckley, along with assistant A-grade coach Lee Staple.

Mr Bradley said he realised he had a big pair of shoes to fill following on from Mr Lea and also Paul and Margie Scott who have been involved with the club for a long time and have now stepped down from the committee to spend more time with family.

“They’ve given me a lot of valuable knowledge that I can hopefully use as the next president,” Mr Bradley said.

A grade Championship, round 1. T Somerville def. M Wilson. T McAlary def. J Hyytinen. P Lee def M Kors. R Hubbard def. G Terry. J Walker def. L Braggins. B Sloper def. N Chittock. S Spina def. J Parker. Round 2. T Somerville def. T McAlary. P Lee def. R Hubbard. J Walker def. B Sloper. S Spina def. M Andrews. D Curry def. C Henson. W Hewitt def. M Kowalczyk. S Henson def. J Morton. Men’s B grade. Championship round 1. J Parker def. W Nicholson. J Hyytinen def. M Kowalczyk. Wednesday January 8th. Social Bowls. Winners; Jenny, Terry, Brenton. R/U; Lorraine, Ian, Allan. Saturday, January 11th. Winners; Lou, Peter. R/U; Elaine, Bruce.

The players get briefed before the start of the women’s BMD League trial match last weekend at Barlow Park. Picture: Supplied

Coach Colin Wilkie.

Hospitality and bowls stalwart joins popular Edge Hill Cairns Bowls Club

Growing game is main aim

l BOWLS

| Nick Dalton

THE newest member of the Edge Hill Cairns Bowls Club’s management team has vast experience in hospitality as well as bowls.

Troy Somerville hit the ground running as new assistant manager as well as bowls development manager on January 2.

The A-grade bowler has spent the past 30-plus years managing mainly bowls and sports clubs – the last 12 years on the Sunshine Coast and 20 years before in the Illawarra.

“I started my training at the Warilla Bowls and Recreation Club which has 200 pokies, four bowls greens and 19 holiday cabins as well as 150 staff. I was there from 1994 to 2003 and ended up as HR manager,” Mr Somerville said.

“I then spent 10 years at the Dapto Citizens Bowling Club as manager,” he said.

“This was followed by managing the Mooloolaba Bowls Club on the Sunshine Coast and the Coolum Beach Bowls Club.

“I had a spell out of the club industry for two years.

“I then started at the Rainbow Beach Sports Club which was in big trouble … was actually trading insolvent and it took 12 months to dig them out of trouble.”

Mr Somerville’s last stint was at Club Maroochy.

“My wife, Natasha, and I love Cairns and we’ve been looking for the last 12 months to moving up here,” he said.

“This job then became available and we decided to ‘let’s do it’.”

Mr Somerville said he would be developing the club’s bowls program as well as helping to operate the club’s bar and entertainment facilities.

He said he would be targeting the 35-40 year old demographic who were currently playing AFL, rugby league, soccer and netball.

Mr Somerville said that age group was “sick of feeling tired and sore” after playing contact sport but were still keen to participate in a competitive code.

He said that demographic was “my goal, the future” who would be playing bowls for decades after retiring from contact sport.

Mr Somerville’s bowls career started at age 12.

“I’ve been bowling for 38 years. I played 200 test matches for New South Wales and 100 games for Australia,” he said.

“I was the national coach and selector for Malta for eight years. My best mate is Maltese. We went to eight world cups and the 2010 Commonwealth Games. The players all live in Australia.”

Mr Somerville said he would like to represent the Edge Hill Cairns club in pennants, but the job was not an opportunity to play bowls frequently. He said he had reached all his bowling goals.

He said club players and social members had been “very welcoming”.

Mr Somerville and his wife have three daughters, aged 21, 17 and 14, with the latter two also moving to Cairns. His wife is a nurse.

Young gymnasts’ cry for help

l GYMNASTICS

| Dave Lornie

THE Mossman and District

Gymnastics Club is appealing to the local business community to partner with the club.

Club manager Hayley Bender said the club had been severely affected by the devastating floods in late 2023, resulting in over $400,000 worth of damage and an eight-month closure.

“This has been an incredibly challenging time for us, with significant rebuilding efforts underway to restore our facilities and programs,” she said.

The club was forced to close for more than eight months after the floods, during which staff lost their jobs and they had to almost

completely rebuild their facilities.

“Despite these challenges, we are committed to bouncing back stronger and continuing to serve as a vital resource for our community,” Ms Bender said, adding that support from business sponsors could “make a huge difference in helping us recover and thrive”.

“Despite these difficulties, we remain committed to delivering high-quality gymnastics programs that benefit people of all ages and abilities within our community,” she said.

“We have put together a range of sponsorship packages for 2025, which offer unique opportunities for (businesses) to gain exposure while supporting a much-loved community organisation.”

She said sponsorship of the

club would help them recover and continue to provide a vital service for over 300 gymnasts and their families.

“The Mossman and District Gymnastics Club is a proud, community-focused, not-for-profit organisation dedicated to delivering ‘Gymnastics for All’ in a fun, friendly and inclusive environment,” Ms Bender said.

“We provide recreational and competitive classes, as well as fitness programs, catering to all ages and abilities – from babies to seniors. Our mission is to promote sport and recreation that benefits the entire community.”

Any businesses interested in the club’s sponsorship packages, which start from as little as $275 can contact Ms Bender at info@ mossmangymnastics.com

Raffles on throughout the day! Barefoot bowls all day!

• Thong throwing - 3:30pm • Vegemite eating - 4:30pm

• Lawn bowls - 2:00pm - 5:00pm

• 2:30pm – 5:30pm SUNDAY 26TH JANUARY

New assistant club and bowls development manager Troy Somerville on the green at Edge Hill Cairns Bowls Club.

Picture: Nick Dalton

Elise, Zali, Sascha, Stephanie and Aniela (surnames withheld) at the Mossman Gymnastics Club. Picture: Supplied

Top-level bowler and hospitality stalwart Troy Somerville joins Edge Hill Cairns Bowls Club.

Picture: Nick Dalton