Cairns Local News May 17 2024

Local News Cairns

Douglas council

CEO quits

l DOUGLAS SHIRE

| Nick Dalton

ANOTHER Far Northern council chief executive officer has resigned following the March 16 elections – this time the boss of Douglas Shire Council.

Rachel Brophy (below) resigned at a closed meeting session of the council last Tuesday morning.

This follows Cairns Regional Council’s chief executive officer Mica Martin resigning last month, effective immediately.

Ms Brophy was present in the council chamber during the public sessions of the special meeting before and after councillors met behind closed doors. She did not comment.

Her resignation was not unanimously accepted. Cr Roy Zammataro voted against all motions, including a recruitment process for a new CEO.

Councillors Scomazzon, Michael Rees, Damian Meadows and Abigail Noli volted in favour.

Cr Scomazzon thanked Ms Brophy for “her continued dedication, professionalism and commitment during good times and challenging situations”.

CONTINUED PAGE 2

Giving Cairns ‘love’

New campaign aims to help small businesses

l CAIRNS REGION

| Nick Dalton

A NEW campaign has been launched to encourage tourists to “love Cairns” and patronise the city’s small businesses.

Small business consultant Joanne Walters is behind the idea, urging visitors to support one-person ventures, not just the major operators.

She took her ‘I love Cairns’ marketing pitch to Trinity Wharf last week to attract the attention of passengers disembarking Carnival Splendor, wearing a distinctive T-shirt and with an A-frame sign.

Ms Walters was selling ‘I love Cairns’ stickers for $6 and

providing a free map showcasing four small businesses: Bowerbird Australia Boutique, Catalena Beauty and Spa, Strada Cafe, and House of Kindred. “Each establishment offered special welcoming offers, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in Cairns’ local culture and support its small-scale entrepreneurs during their oneday visit,” she said.

Ms Walters said there was a lot of interest in her T-shirt with people wanting to buy one.

“But I couldn’t afford to pay for even a small run of the Tshirts,” she said.

Ms Walters said one man wanted to buy 11.

CONTINUED PAGE 3

love Cairns’ promoter Joanne Walters at Trinity Wharf greeting cruise passengers. Picture: Supplied

Healthy donation

Hospital foundation provides vital medical needs

l CASSOWARY COAST

CANCER patients on the Cassowary Coast will be more comfortable thanks to the hard work of a dedicated group of local volunteers.

A $7186 blanket warmer bought for the Innisfail Hospital oncology unit is already making life a little warmer for chemotherapy patients, courtesy of the Innisfail Hospital Friends of the Foundation.

Videoconferencing equipment, valued at $25,000, was also donated.

Innisfail Hospital medical services director Dr Thomas Coombs said the equipment would be used by clinicians and patients around the region when making difficult decisions about patient retrieval or end-of-life care.

“The new system will enhance our disaster coordination capability. It will facilitate planning and sit-rep meetings with a clearer line of communication between the hospital incident management team, local and district disaster management groups, community emergency response teams, and the health emergency operations

centre in Cairns,” he said.

Up to 17 patients a day use the Innisfail chemotherapy unit and, while sitting having infusions, patients often get cold.

“Now that we have a blanket warmer in the unit, patients can enjoy a warm blanket (which has been described by patients as being like a big warm hug) at any time, ensuring their treatment time in

the chair is as comfortable as possible,” nurse unit manager Romy Clark said.

Innisfail Hospital Friends of the Foundation, a subsidiary of the Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation, is an active group of volunteers in the region.

President Estelle Kopp said the foundation was excited about the donations.

“The money for these purchases comes from all our activities at numerous events and we’re grateful to our community for supporting us,” Mrs Kopp said.

“The videoconferencing equipment will be valuable, not just clinically, but also at times of natural disaster for community-related decisions,” she said.

Search for new Douglas shire CEO underway

FROM PAGE 1

Cr Scomazzon said Ms Brophy greatly “supported elected members, the broader council team and the community”.

“Rachel has achieved many great outcomes for the community, including construction of the

Mossman Splash Park, new bike paths, and new lighting at the Mossman Showgrounds, leading our eco-tourism certification and securing the Queensland Symphony Orchestra as the headline act to celebrate Carnivale’s 30th anniversary,” she said. “Rachel also successfully led council’s response to ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper which has seen unprecedented damage across the shire.

“She worked tirelessly advocating to the state and federal government(s) to ensure funding for Douglas’ water security and single-handily commissioned processes engineers from Brisbane and Sydney to work alongside council staff in the aftermath of the monsoonal rain event.”

The CEO’s last day will be July 9. She joined the council on February 14, 2022. The council’s planning and environment manager

Paul Hoye will be acting CEO from July 10 until Ms Brophy’s replacement is recruited.

Local Briefs

l MORNING TEA MULGRAVE Complete

Care on 225 Sheridan St will be hosting Cancer Council’s Greatest Morning Tea on Thursday, May 23 at 11.30am to raise awareness and funds for cancer patients in the Far North. The theme of the morning tea is crazy hats, so bring your best mad hatter look. Delicious pastries and refreshing tea will be available for a gold coin donation on entry.

l FREE

DUMPING

CAIRNS Regional Council’s next free green waste disposal period of the year starts this weekend. Residential green waste can be dropped off freeof-charge from May 18-26 at the Portsmith, Smithfield, Gordonvale, and Babinda Transfer Stations, seven days a week, from 8.30am to 5.15pm. People are encouraged to make a voluntary gold coin donation for the Far North Queensland Youth Assistance Fund.

l ROAD CLOSURES

Innisfail Hospital foundation president Estelle Kopp (left), Kerry Mann, senior medical officer Dr James Boland, Romy Clark, Johanne Stitt and Maria Vasicek with the new VC equipment. Picture: Supplied

Librarian’s love of reading inspires students

l KEWARRA BEACH

A PASSION for reading and storytelling with children and families has culminated in a coveted Australian Schools Library Association (ASLA) library advocate award for Trinity Anglican School’s Kewarra Beach campus librarian Danielle Harte.

Ms Harte’s commitment to literacy and learning and the pivotal role school libraries play in fostering connection have earned national recognition by introducing innovative programming and weekly classes for all students that seamlessly blend literacy with nature experiences.

She said she was excited and humbled to be the recipient of this year’s school library advocate award.

“As the school library coordinator, I have shared my love for books and stories and the joy that brings,” she said.

“I have witnessed the transformative impact of a school library and how creating an inclusive space where everyone feels safe, connected, and inspired to learn and grow as a transformative impact on children and families.

“As an advocate, I will strive to continue championing the importance of school libraries in nurturing future generations.”

Council libraries are hives of activity with 700,000 annual visits

Region of bookworms

l CAIRNS REGION

| Nick Dalton

MORE people visit Cairns’ libraries than four other councils benchmarked in a new report.

Nearly 700,000 visitations were reported at the city’s libraries in 2022-23, 4.1 per capita, placing Cairns No.1 in front of Ipswich (2.7), Redland (2.5), Toowoomba (1.9), Townsville (1.7).

Cairns was also fi rst in internet use (441,778 hours), while the city was second in program and event attendance (43,799) and Wi-Fi use (104,426 hours), behind Ipswich.

The report revealed that membership to Cairns Libraries increased by more than 6000, to total 45,554, representing about 27 per cent of the Cairns population.

Cairns Libraries received $841,639 in state government public library funding in 2022/23, which assisted with the acquisition of almost 42,000 new physical items, increasing the collection to 154,552 items. The libraries earned $1.2 million a year but cost $6.2m to run – a $5m deficit.

The report said moves were underway to improve use of

city libraries including a new library management system being rolled out from next month, investigation of a mobile app for library patrons and staff, prioritisation of digital inclusion initiatives and strategies and assessment and planning for the future of Edmonton library and design and construction of a refurbished Smithfield library.

Cr Cathy Zeiger (division 3) told a council meeting that public libraries played “such a crucial role in the community, fostering engagement, early learning and so many programs”.

She said she was delighted that Cairns rated the highest for visitations and for use of digital technology.

“We are killing it and clearly (the staff and management) are doing such a great job,” Cr Zeiger said.

Cr Trevor Tim (division 4) said he was “disgusted to hear about violence at libraries”.

He wanted to know what the council was doing about protecting users and library staff.

Council lifestyle and community director Destry Puia said security guards were now placed at the four key library branches – the CBD, Manunda,

Earlville and Smithfield – with the support of the CitySafe team and the police to ensure libraries were “safe places for everyone”.

Cr Rob Pyne said it was a pity that the demographic the council was trying to attract to libraries was involved in the violence.

He said it was critical that they use the libraries for the right reason.

The council started hiring guards a year ago after groups of teens started stealing, threatening other children and intimidating council staff at the Smithfield library.

‘I love Cairns’ campaign launched

FROM PAGE 1

Ms Walters said most small businesses could not afford to be included on Tourism Tropical North Queensland’s map handed to visitors.

She said TTNQ was doing a great job of marketing the destination but the “wheels of government and the council turn too slowly”.

“For the little fellas it’s hard ... they need some support,” Ms Walters said.

She said she did not know how she would pay for the campaign, giving her services for free, and taking time off from her consulting work with Yarrabah’s Wugu Nyambil.

Ms Walters said she had created the website www.ilove tourism.com.au and it would be rolled out to include other localities such as ‘I love Babinda, Port Douglas, Palm Cove’ etc.

“It would be nice if the big end of town helped support the smaller ones,” she said.

Ms Walters said the campaign “signals a new chapter in supporting local small businesses and fostering community engagement”.

“Under the banner of ‘I love Cairns’, this campaign seeks to showcase the diverse tapestry of small businesses that contribute to Cairns’ unique charm,” she said.

Ms Walters said it was important to support micro-businesses, particularly those owned by local Indigenous artists and entrepreneurs, to preserve Cairns’ cultural heritage and promote economic inclusivity.

“During the campaign launch, visitors expressed their enthusiasm for supporting the local businesses, with many stating that they definitely wanted to know how to find the little businesses so that they could show their support,” she said.

Ms Walters is considering other ways to fund her campaign.

• Visit www.ilovetourism.com. au or follow on social media

@i_love_cairns

• Editor’s note: This campaign should not be confused with www.ilovecairns.com.au, which is a blog operated by Richard, Julie and Ethan Johnston promoting waterfalls, the Reef, rainforest and the Outback.

Trinity Anglican School Kewarra Beach campus librarian Danielle Harte reads to children in the school library. Picture: Supplied

Scientist on Amazon trek

Saving the world’s largest rainforest

l GOLDSBOROUGH

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

SCIENTIST Dr Daniel Collins

is on a crusade to restore the Amazon rainforest and rescue the species that inhabit it and is encouraging more scientists to get on board.

Returning to the Amazon mid-June for his second mission through his company Coraculture, Dr Collins aims to help establish a reserve, ensure the protection of exotic species in the area, while also working with key local groups like miners and Indigenous communities to work on agreements for the protection of the rainforest.

“I was born and have spent most of my life in Goldsborough near the rainforest,” he said.

“I studied science and throughout my early 20s I travelled to New Guinea, Indonesia, Borneo and saw the damage to the rainforest, I did my PhD and after that the only place left to go was the Amazon.

“In 2023, I visited Tambopata in southeast Peru which is renowned as the highest biodi-

versity hotspot in the world, I helped set up a reserve in the Amazon rainforest which is very dangerous because of the gold miners, and I was right in the heart of one of the most terrible environmental disasters in the planet.

“About a quarter of the Amazon has been damaged to the point that is not rainforest anymore, we’re at a tipping point, if we don’t start doing something in the coming years that number could go up to half.”

After his first visit to Peru and Brazil through his company

Coraculture, Dr Collins is aiming to set up a rehabilitation program through an establishment of relationship with the gold miners, education, awareness, revegetation and protection of wildlife.

“Since then, I’ve come back and written a plan on how to rehabilitate the areas damaged by the gold miners and we’re trying to get funding which is the next step,” he said.

“I’ll be coming back in the second half of the year for several months to help expand the reserves in Tambopata, train the rangers, help set up a scientific base and then I move to another reserve in Brazil.”

Dr Collins encouraged other scientists to leave the comfort of Australia and come on board to save the Amazon.

“It’s way easy to sit here in the safety of Australia but this does nothing, our rainforest in FNQ is protected, if you want to do something for the rainforest you need to go out to the frontline,” he said.

“I would say to young science students, get on a plane and go to the Amazon, the real tragedy is happening there and if we don’t act now we’ll all be in trouble.”

Free breast screen tests

l INNISFAIL

BREASTSCREEN

Queensland is providing free breast screening at Innisfail Showgrounds until August 2.

BreastScreen health promotion officer Belinda Lees said breast screening was an essential two-yearly health check for women over the age of 40 and did not require a doctor’s referral.

“Women aged between 50 and 74 are strongly recommended to have a breast screen every two years, as 75 per cent of

breast cancer diagnoses are in this age group,” she said.

“A breast screen takes an image of what is happening inside the breast tissue and is able to pick up small changes, often before they can be seen or felt by a woman or her doctor.”

Ms Lees encouraged local women to spend 20 minutes having a breast screen.

“Early detection can save your life, providing the best chance of effective treatment, increased survival, and improved quality of life,” she said.

Melissa Clubb recently had her first breast screen

at the mobile service in Innisfail, after her doctor suggested it was a good idea to start screening.

“The screening process was very quick and easy,” she said. “I was a little anxious beforehand, but once I arrived the staff put me at ease and explained everything well.

“It was a positive first screening experience and I encourage all eligible women to make an appointment.”

After Innisfail, breastscreening will be at Tully Showgrounds from August 6-September 12.

Melissa Clubb outside the breastcreening unit at Innisfail Showgrounds. Picture: Queensland Health

Dr Dan Collins holding a sloth in the flooded forests of the Brazilian Amazon. Picture: Supplied

Art of photography on show

l PARRAMATTA PARK

THE photographic section at the Cairns Show is introducing some new changes to the competition.

The competition is supported by the Cairns Photographic Society (CPS), who provide important advice, manpower for the set-up of the display, as well as organising accredited judges to ensure entrants get the best possible experience.

Club president Richard Foord said this year there were some new categories as well as an expansion of the junior photographers section.

“A dedicated section for

action/sports has been added for our constantly active community,” he said.

“Also newly introduced are two special classes that will change every year to keep up variety. Each year there will be a class for a specific photography technique and one defined on a titled theme.

“This year the technique section is about aerial photography and the wonderful perspectives that aerial views and the increasing world of drone photography are opening up to us.

“The special titled theme is doors and windows to help our community artists express a specific subject rather than

composing around traditional photography genres.

“In addition, the junior photography section, includes an all ages under 18 years, special themed class as well. Junior photographers can compete here with the theme of 'My Tropical Home'.

“With today’s technology making this medium accessible to virtually everyone, this is a great opportunity for individuals to have fun showcasing their perspectives of the world.

“The best camera is the one you have with you.”

Email the society at cairnsphotosociety@gmail.com or follow them on Facebook.

No Federal Budget funding for region’s largest infrastructure development

Blow to $472m water project

l CAIRNS REGION

| Nick Dalton

CAIRNS ratepayers are staring at a $488 water levy annually for 15 years after the Federal Budget failed to include money for the region’s $472m water security project and if the state government also does not come to the party.

A request for an extra $128.5m from the Australian

Government was not included in this week’s national budget. A similar amount is before the Queensland Government.

Mayor Amy Eden hasn’t outlined what the council plans to do to try to raise the hundreds of millions for the Mulgrave River project – the biggest in the council’s history.

“We’re obviously disappointed the Federal Government has not allocated additional funding in the 2024/25 budget given

how critical this project is for our community,” she said.

“Without additional funding, it will be our community that bears the cost of this critical infrastructure project through increased rates and/or charges,” she said.

“People are already experiencing significant cost-of-living pressures, including rising cost of mortgage repayments, rent, insurance and day-to-day essentials on top of the financial

Council News Update

impacts from Tropical Cyclone Jasper. This project has the unanimous backing of council and is supported by all our local state and federal members, as well as our advocacy partners.”

Advance Cairns chairman Nick Trompf said, while the Federal Budget was big on national initiatives, it was short on specific commitments to Cairns and Far North Queensland. He said the budget introduced welcome measures to address

cost-of-living pressures and skills shortages in regional Australia, but failed to deliver on key projects such as the Cairns water security project.

“We are hard pressed to find any demonstrable new investments in what is Northern Australia’s most populated region, which is deeply disappointing,” Mr Trompf said.

“We will continue to push for additional funds to support Cairns water security project –

stage 1 – which is a vital piece of infrastructure. Without these additional funds to meet the rising construction and materials costs, this project will in fact add to further cost-of-living pressures for all Cairns ratepayers,” he said.

“We are hopeful that the door remains open to increased funding of this important initiative and we will continue to push for this critical investment,” Mr Trompf said.

Get ready for a blast of kiddie craziness at the Cairns Children’s Festival this weekend.

The festival will be held at various locations over two days on Saturday 18 May and Sunday 19 May.

Event locations include the Cairns Performing Arts Centre, Court House Gallery, Tanks Arts Centre and Cairns Botanic Gardens.

Visit Council’s website for more information.

Cairns Children Festival Improvement works

Bluewater boat ramp, Trinity Park: Repairs and lighting upgrade from Wednesday 22 May.

Mulgrave Rd, Bungalow: Asphalt repair works from Friday 24 May. Traffic control in place.

4Visit Council’s website for a full list of improvement works.

A photograph of a sugar cane train at Gordonvale taken by Corinne Bramwell will be entered in the Cairns Show photographic competition in July. Picture: Corrine Bramwell

Cassowary Coast Regional Council targets canines not on leashes Hospital’s $5.5m roof upgrade

l CASSOWARY COAST

|

New dog off-leash patrols will soon start in key areas throughout the region to ensure dog walkers are aware of the laws.

Development, planning and environment councillor Jeff Baines said a major objective of the initiative was to help the community understand why leashes were so important.

“Our beaches and parks are for everyone and whilst most people are mindful of dog etiquette while out for a walk, council receives too many reports of dogs off-leash causing distress to community members and other animals,” he said.

“Incidents range from dogs disturbing other animals and people, to full blown attacks which could have been avoided if the dog was on a leash.”

Cr Baines said the dog patrols would take an informative approach but warned that fines of up to $774 could be issued to people blatantly and repeatedly flaunting the law.

l MOSSMAN

WORK has started to replace the roof on one of Queensland’s oldest hospitals at Mossman.

The $5.5 million project is due for completion by the end of the year and follows the $10m hospital upgrade in 2021.

Health Minister Shannon Fentiman said the Mossman Hospital’s 90-year-old roof had been a challenge to maintain.

“That’s why we are undertaking this significant project and making sure the hospital can continue to deliver healthcare for the Mossman community for years to come,” she said.

Member for Cook Cynthia Lui said the hospital was much loved by locals, particularly with its Spanish mission-style exteriors – the only public hospital in Queensland designed as such.

“As we did when the hospital underwent its more than $10m upgrade in 2021, we will make sure we take the care and time to protect its unique heritage,” she said.

“Our local law officers are dog lovers and at every opportunity they’ll show appreciation for people being awesome and taking good care of their animals, but we know some people need help being respon-

“In 2023 council responded to more than 1000 incidents involving animals, 263 being dangerous or menacing dogs,” he said.

sible dog owners.” In February 2024 the council amended its Subordinate Local Laws 2022 to include additional dog offleash areas following public consultation resulting in eight areas where dogs can legally be off-leash.

They are: Innisfail’s Wrights Park on Sherwood St, Wongal-

ing Beach’s Banfield Parade and Dickinson Street, Tully Heads, between the Carron Esplanade and Penning Park, Kurrimine Beach’s Boustead Park, Mission Beach’s Esplanade, South Mission Beach’s foreshore, Tully’s Widsoet Park, and Cardwell’s Coral Sea Park.

• Information about responsible

dog ownership and animal regulations in the Cassowary Coast can also be found on the council’s website at https://bit.ly/3K0TMw9

• For further information about dog patrols contact the council on 1300 763 903 or email enquiries@cassowarycoast.qld. gov.au

Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service strategy, planning and infrastructure executive director Dean Davidson said the hospital was a unique facility that had a cornucopia of different roof forms across all of its buildings, including Dutch gables, pitching points, box gutters, and parapet walls at different heights, resulting in many leaks over the years.

Cr Jeff Baines and local law officer Ian Morton with Motley and Fluke at the newly-signed Wongaling Beach dog off-leash area. Picture: CCRC

Region can’t stop growing

Cairns population 175,000-plus with 3413 extra people – best increase in north

l CAIRNS REGION

| Nick Dalton

CAIRNS is the fastest growing regional city in the north, adding 3413 people to total just over 175,000 people.

The growth of two per cent outpaces Townsville (3299), Rockhampton/Gladstone (2454) and Mackay (1957).

Economist Bill Cummings said the two per cent increase

was more than the 1.7 per cent of the previous year.

“The latest figures are most welcome. It is good to see the population growth rate getting back up to longer term averages after a number of years when the growth rate slumped down to about one per cent and lower, bottoming out during Covid at only 0.3 per cent,” he said.

“The reasons are partly demographic, rather than economic,

due to people preferring regional areas rather than being attracted to major metropolitan areas following the Covid experience.

“While interstate migration into Queensland was down in 2022-23 on the previous year, the last few years have seen a rise in migration from overseas.

“Post-Covid population growth rates throughout regional Queensland have been up tending to confirm a post-Covid trend

Salvos need major boost

THE Salvation Army has launched its 60th Red Shield Appeal in Cairns with $89,000 of a $120,000 target already reached.

The appeal was launched at a lunch hosted at the Pullman Reef Hotel Casino last week. At the lunch cheques for $10,000 each were handed to the army by Down Under Cruise and Dive and Northern Frontier Foundation.

Across Queensland, the Salvos are aiming to raise $5.7 million and $120,000 in Cairns for the appeal, which is now Australia’s largest

and longest-running doorknock appeal. The Salvation Army’s Major Ben Johnson of Cairns said the numbers were frightening. “In a lucky country like Australia, individuals and families shouldn’t have to make these sorts of decisions, like choosing whether to eat, pay rent or send your kids to the doctor,” he said.

“But these are the people the Salvos help every day as we try to give a new beginning to those struggling in our community,” he said.

Major Johnston said The Red Shield Appeal weekend was May 25 and 26, but there were many volunteering

opportunities throughout the month of May – collections in shopping centres or other key locations, online fundraising or organising a collection at your workplace, school, or sporting event.

“Cairns needs your support more than ever. The Salvos are grateful for the generosity we have received over the past 60 years of the Red Shield Appeal, and we hope to see our community come together again this year as we seek to make it another 60 years,” he said. All funds raised in Cairns stayed here, Major Johnson said.

Visit salvationarmy.org.au or calling 13 SALVOS.

observed by others for living in regional areas to be more attractive compared with the major metropolitan areas.

“Clearly the impacts of the recent heavy and prolonged wet season of cyclone Jasper present a challenge to getting the economy fully operational again and restoring confidence in the area as a place to live.”

Mr Cummings said, while Cairns had grown to more than

175,000, Townsville’s slightly lower growth at 3299 had now taken it over an important benchmark of 200,000.

“On recent growth rates, Cairns should be expected to also follow and pass over the 200,000 mark in about an eight year timeframe. That is about the time of the Brisbane Olympics,” he said.

“At a wider regional level, the Cairns/ Far North Region (stretching out to the NT bor-

der and up to the PNG border), again led growth by a substantial margin, further consolidating the region’s position as the most populous region in the north with a population of now over 300,000.”

Mr Cummings said a review of figures over the last six months showed the ‘hit’ taken by the Cairns economy from cyclone Jasper but a bounce back was evident by March.

l CAIRNS CBD

Just Salvos Youth Band Lyall Bray, Caleb Bray and Kila Haoda at the launch. Picture: Danae Jones Consulting

Vocal Local

a ANZ Innisfail closing is a real pain.

WEEK’S QUESTION What do you think about the “I love Cairns” tourism campaign for small businesses?

In the last edition we asked: Has any bank branch closure inconvenienced you and why? Here are some of your comments.

- John Bomber, Facebook

All of them.

- Scott Carpenter, Facebook

At least Westpac is not closing any more for the next three years. It’s been really annoying not having a Westpac branch and ATM in the Cairns CBD with the nearest at Cairns Central being highly inconvenient. The ATM alternatives are Commbank or Woolworths (if you shop).

- John Nicholas, Facebook

Time for a Post Office Bank. Reinstate Christine Holgate.

- Richard Gloyne, Facebook

1300 banks closed, 20,000 ATMs closed in 2022. The government plans for digital currency cashless society, total control of us. RIP life as we knew it people.

- Mathew Worthington, Facebook

Typical behaviour from these self-professed “caring” banks that purport to put people first. ANZ 2022 profit exceeded $7 billion and Westpac in excess of $5 billion. Closing small rural branches flows straight to the profit line. You would think they learned something from the Royal Commission but unfortunately not so.

- Ross Smith, Facebook

Stella Martin, Whitfield Mental Health Prize nominations

at forum

Lucy Brogden and Allan Fels, the Australian Mental Health Prize Advisory Group

@cairnslocalnews

Gazza’s Gossip

Celebrating 30 years of history

l PORT DOUGLAS

WITH ANZAC Day still firmly in our minds and the Douglas Shire Historical Society’s exhibition of local war heroes held in conjunction, the very same organisation has just celebrated its 30th anniversary.

I caught up with them at their AGM last Monday, at which they celebrated the occasion with a special birthday cake.

For a little history, back in 1994 the society was formed when the Port Douglas Court House was finally returned to its original site in Wharf St and opened as a museum. Official incorporation actually occurred on May 11 of that year.

Prior to this, the Court House had fallen into disrepair when the police vacated it in 1961 and the Department of Works hoped to demolish the building and resume the site on the Port Douglas police reserve.

Betty Whiting, proprietor of the Courthouse Hotel with her husband Albert, decided to save the building and in 1968 had it moved to vacant land

behind the hotel. She used it to store her valuable wine collection until a cyclone unroofed the structure and the rain pelted in. All the labels floated off the bottles, so she didn’t know which were more valuable. They say she just had to drink them.

Her dream was to establish a museum for Port Douglas, hopefully in the Court House, and she entrusted her nephew Noel Weare with this vision.

As result of Noel’s tireless work with the Port Douglas Restoration Society, finally the original Court House site was removed from the police reserve and work began to raise funds to restore the old building. In July 1993, the Court House was returned to its original 1879 site under the trusteeship of the Douglas Shire Council and restoration began.

The Douglas Shire Historical Society was formed then with 23 members. Noel Weare was elected inaugural president, David Rex from a long-time resident Mossman family was vice-president and Billie Lloyd was honorary secretary/treasurer. Fundraising had raised a little over $3000 thanks to local generosity.

After much hard work and securing the target funding of almost $60,000, the society’s museum was opened to the public on Saturday, April 5, 1997 by Paul Braddy, Member for Kedron, who had signed off on the land tenure transfer several years previously as police minister for Queensland.

The main display for the Port Douglas Court House Museum was based on the committal proceedings of Ellen Thomson, who in 1887 was accused, before a police magistrate in this actual courtroom, of the murder of her husband Billy. She was later transferred to Boggo Rd jail in Brisbane, going into history as the only woman ever executed by hanging in the State of Queensland. Some say she was innocent.

A video is available of Ellen Thomson’s trial and people sit in the jury benches to watch.

The society continues to meet on the first Monday of the month.

Guest speakers elaborate on details of times gone by with active participation from their audience. Members take a keen interest in researching the

history of our shire and assist in the protection of cultural heritage sites.

Many publications by members are available to buy. Volunteers open the museum on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays between 10am and 1pm and are happy to chat to visitors and discuss local history.

The society always welcomes new members who are assisted to research their favourite topics or are welcome to help with cataloguing, adding to the database, or helping in the museum.

There is a Facebook page called Douglas Shire Historical Society, and a fascinating website full of great stories at www.douglashistory.org.au

Finally, happy 30th birthday to the Douglas Shire Historical Society.

I’m off to try some of that cake, so for now it’s Gazza signing out.

Send your stories to

gazza@cairnslocalnews.com.au

Douglas Shire Historical Society members celebrating at this week’s AGM (left) Pam Willis Burden, Gail Cockburn, Ann-Marie Fapani, Lynn Anich, Anne Lloyd, Peter Lloyd and Vivienne Ruffles. Inset: The Court House Museum. Pictures: Supplied

Spotlight on Northern Beaches

Big day out for motorcyclists

Annual motorbike charity

l SMITHFIELD

| Isaac Colman

HUNDREDS of bikes are set to return to Smithfield’s Macalister Brewing Company this Sunday, along with a show and shine, live entertainment, food trucks, raffles, and prizes, as part of the annual Bike Day Out charity event.

With more than 300 bikes last year, Bike Day Out is Far North Queensland’s biggest motorcycle charity event.

Macalister Brewing Company owner Rob Callin said the success of last year’s event had allowed for the event to be held annually.

“Last year, we had over 300 riders turn up,” he said.

“On the day, our car park will be closed to cars.

“On display will be classic and vintage motorcycles, cruisers and off-road and on-road bikes.

“There will also be displays from Harley Magic, Triumph Cairns, Shannons insurance and more.”

With the gates opening at noon, the Bike Day Out event will coincide with the arrival of the annual Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride.

A worldwide event, participants

of the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride are owners of classic and vintage motorcycles. Dressed in dapper suits, the ‘Distinguished Gentlemen’ ride to raise funds and awareness for men’s mental health and prostate cancer research.

Having raised over $45 million for men’s health since 2012, the Distinguished Gentleman’s ride is now the world’s biggest annual charity motorbike ride, taking place in over 121 countries.

Supported by Harley Magic, Triumph Cairns, the AMX superstore and NQ Ride Motorcycle Training, entry for motorbikes and spectators will be via a gold coin donation, with money raised going to Movember.

Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride Cairns organiser Steve Bailey said last year’s ride was a record event, consisting of 106 riders.

“This will be the 10th year of the DGR in Cairns,” he said.

“Over the past 10 years, we have raised $100,000 for men’s health, with $24,000 last year alone.”

“We are hoping all the motorbike riders in Cairns will don their vintage suits or tweed jackets and come for a ride on Sunday May 19, to help us raise funds for men’s health.”

event on again at Macalister Brewing on Sunday

Macalister Brewing Co. founder Rob Callin is raising money for Movember with a Bike Day Out on Sunday. Picture: Supplied

Edge Hill beauty salon specialises in refreshing facial improvements

Rejuvenating skin treatments

l EDGE HILL

BEAUTY Impact owner Tracy Cavallaro believes “Rezenerate NanoFacial” is a game-changer in the world of skincare, offering a rejuvenating experience that reduces fine lines and restores youthful radiance to the skin.

“Unlike micro-needling treatments, Rezenerate harnesses the power of cutting-edge nanotechnology to deliver unparalleled results without the use of needles,” she said.

“Combining the principles of acupressure and yogic facial exercises, along with the soothing touch of cold therapy, the Rezenerate NanoFacial leaves skin feeling refreshed and looking younger after just one session.

“With nano-needling technology utilising needles one-tenth the size of a human hair (70 micrometers), this facial treatment ensures minimal discomfort and no extended downtime.”

Ms Cavallaro said one of the key advantages of Rezenerate NanoFacial was its versatility in addressing various skin concerns such as fine lines, wrinkles, acne scarring, sunspots, age spots, and hyperpigmentation.

“The recent addition of the NanoGlobe Zen massage further enhances the Rezenerate experience, drawing inspiration from Japanese acupressure therapy, yoga facial exercises, and cold therapy,” she said.

“The Rezenerate Nanotech Golden Ratio, a result of breakthrough nanotechnology and proprietary processes, ensures optimal effectiveness through meticulously engineered nanopyramids.

“By creating microchannels in the skin’s surface, Rezenerate facilitates deep penetration of nutrients and stimulates collagen production without the use of needles, unlike traditional needling procedures.

“Whether targeting specific skin issues or aiming for overall skin rejuvenation, Rezenerate offers both short-term radiance and long-term skin improvements, making it a must-have in modern skincare routines.

“Clients are loving the results and is great as a stand-alone treatment and even better as a course of four or six treatments.

“Perfect in the lead up to a big event.”

Beauty Impact is at 124-126 Collins Avenue, Edge Hill, phone: 4053 6777. Visit www.beautyimpact.com.au

Beauty Impact owner Tracy Cavallaro in her Edge Hill salon. Picture: Almando Anton

Solar panels need checking Systems require regular maintenance to ensure they are operating well

l FAR NORTH

| Melissa McGrath

IN the pursuit of reducing energy bills and harnessing renewable energy, solar panels have become standard for many Queensland households.

However, what happens when these powerhouses of sustainability aren’t performing as expected?

According to RACQ research, nearly one-in-four (23.5 per cent) Queenslanders who have solar did not know their solar system had to be maintained or checked regularly to ensure it was working efficiently.

RACQ Solar chief executive officer Jack Hooper said there were several reasons solar systems might not be performing at their peak level.

“One of the most common causes of underperforming solar panels is inverter failure, which can occur if there is a grid fault, if there is a problem with the earthing of the system or if the system circuit breaker has tripped,” he said.

Clean Energy Council solar licence should be working on the system.

“A normal electrician is not qualified and homeowners should not be checking the system themselves.”

Checking that the system is performing at its optimum level will ensure homeowners are getting the best return on their investment.

“A solar health check could reveal a system is producing up to 20 per cent less power than it should,” Mr Hooper said.

“With a 6.6kW system, that could be in the region of 5kWh per day which could cost the owner up to $450 per year based on the average electricity costs in Queensland of 25 cents per kilowatt hour.

Mr Hooper said the quality of workmanship during installation also played a critical role in ensuring the solar system was generating the power that was expected.

“Unfortunately, this is often overlooked as consumers typical-

“The inverters are one of the most complex components of a solar system and often one of the first mechanisms to fail.”

ly prioritise the price of solar installations over quality,” he said.

“The most recent round of inspections completed by the Clean Energy Regulator in 2019 showed that 23 per cent of installations audited in Queensland were found to be substandard or unsafe.

“Hot spots, corrosion, cracks

and general degradation are also common problems, particularly for aged solar panels.

“Many of these issues can be created during the installation process by poor handling of the solar modules or the incorrect mounting and fixing of the solar modules to the roof.”

Mr Hooper said qualified so-

lar electricians should perform servicing on solar systems every couple of years.

“Investing in routine solar health checks is like giving your solar panels a doctor’s visit – it helps catch problems early and ensures your solar system is operating at its best,” he said.

“Only electricians with a

“Over the 25-year expected life of the system, this could cost the homeowner more than $10,000 in lost potential savings.

“In addition to the financial benefits, regular servicing also ensures that the system is operating safely and meets the required safety standards.”

Visit the RACQ website: https://bit.ly/44CmlJO

An RACQ solar technician consults with home owners about their panels. Picture: RACQ

TimeOut

Savannah in the Round line-up of top entertainers set to be best in history

US country star for concert

l MAREEBA

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

HITMAKER and former half of one of country music’s most successful duos Florida Georgia Line, Tyler Hubbard, will be joining this year’s Savannah in the Round growing what will be the event’s best line-up to date. With millions of albums sold and worldwide hits like ‘Cruise’, ‘This is How We Roll’, ‘Meant to Be’ and more, Mr Hubbard is the perfect addition to a brilliant line up of stars like Lee Kernaghan, Kip Moore, Sheppard, Troy Cassar-Daley and more that are part of the most awaited Savannah in the Round coming to the Mareeba Rodeo Arena from October 11-13.

Hubbard, who was first introduced as part of Florida Georgia Line, is now record-

ing as a solo artist under EMI Nashville. In January 2023 he put out his self-titled album, which has amassed over one billion streams with future classic singles like ‘5 foot 9’, and ‘Dancin’ in the Country’ reaching number one at Country Radio and going two times platinum and platinum respectively.

This year he returned with his second album ‘Strong’ on April 12, featuring hit singles like ‘Back Then Right Now’ and ‘Wish you Would’, and now he’ll be bringing his best hits to the Far North for the first time.

Mr Hubbard said he was excited to join the lineup at Savannah in the Round.

“I couldn’t be more excited to bring my show to Savannah in the Round this October, especially in the stunning setting of Tropical North Queensland,” Mr Hubbard said.

“Australia’s natural beauty

never fails to inspire, and I’m ready to lose myself in the music amidst the wonders of Mareeba, where the spirit of country meets the magic of the Outback.”

Other confirmed artists include The Living End, Hoodoo Gurus, Jon Stevens, John Williamson, Sheppard, James Johnston, Vika and Linda, Glenn Shorrock and Brian Cadd, The Wolfe Brothers, Graeme Connors, The Whitlams, Black Stump, Max Jackson, Darlinghurst, Caitlyn Shadbolt, Melanie Dyer, Roadtrippers, Black Image, Route 33, Lane Pittman, Joan and The Giants, Denvah, Viper Creek Band, Jeremy Fletcher, Chocolate Starfish, Hindley Street Country Club, Brooke Schubert and 19 Twenty. Tickets are on sale now for Savannah in the Round. To view ticketing, camping and glamping options, head to https://bit.ly/3UXAFtc

This weekend aimed at exciting children across region

l CAIRNS REGION

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

A WEEKEND of fun and magic awaits for kids with the 10th Cairns Children’s Festival’s program, taking them on a twoday adventure full of music, games, stories and even shark encounters.

This Saturday and Sunday will be all for the children with

the celebration of the 10th anniversary of the Cairns Children’s Festival across Cairns Performing Arts Centre (CPAC), Court House Gallery, Tanks Arts Centre and Cairns Botanic Gardens with a full program of curated activities for kids 12 and under.

“Celebrating 10 years of the Cairns Children’s Festival is incredibly exciting. It marks a decade of providing enriching experiences and joyful memo-

ries for children and families in our community,” said festival associate producer Amanda Belanger.

“Some highlights of this year’s event include the interactive theatrical experience Erth’s Shark Dive, magical story walks like ‘Wombat Stew’ along the Gondwana Evolution Walk, interactive workshops led by First Nations’ youth, and engaging performances and activities.”

The family fun begins on Saturday at CPAC with a puppet extravaganza as ‘The One Who Planted Trees’ takes the stage. Meanwhile, the Court House Gallery will feature Beasties by Kinetic Theatre – an alternate world of extraordinary creatures – alongside the Crazy Creatures Exhibition and the Cairns Libraries Pop-up Library.

Tanks Arts Centre will host Erth’s Shark Dive, a captivating underwater adventure cra-

fted by NSW company Erth on both Saturday and Sunday. Day two continues the excitement at the Cairns Botanic Gardens Precinct and Tanks Arts Centre with interactive experiences like Tinkering Tank by Cairns Children’s Museum and a musical stage show by Proudfoot and Friends.

Outdoor enthusiasts can explore Pat Malone’s Magic Garden or join the adventure inspired by Wombat Stew Story

Walk on the Gondwana Evolution Walk. Flecker Lawn transforms into Bulmba Gadigadigu (A Place for Kids) featuring performances and interactive workshops led by First Nations’ youth, as well as surprises in the Ngamum infant zone. “The festival provides accessible and affordable opportunities for children to engage with the arts, culture, and STEAM activities,” Ms Belanger said. Visit https://bit.ly/40C5h3P

Country superstar Tyler Hubbard will be joining this year’s Savannah in the Round. Picture: Supplied

‘One for the old headz’ Book helping Nepalese

Indie pop and rock artist Ben Lee at Tanks

l EDGE HILL

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

BELOVED indie pop and rock artist Ben Lee is back in Cairns for a night of romantic anthems, stories, and celebration of what it means to be human tonight is at the Tanks Arts Centre.

With a repertoire of over 30 years’ worth of songs, Ben Lee is excited to be back at the Tanks after years to share his “music about what it means to be human” with his Cairns fans, including some new singles of his upcoming album ‘This One’s For the Old Headz’ from 7.30pm tonight at Tank 5.

“The last time I performed at the Tanks there was a parade in town and I rode in a car through a parade. I’m sure there’ll be no parade for me this year but it was a fond memory,” he said.

“My new album is coming out in September, it’s called ‘This One’s For the Old Headz’ and it’s blistering indie rock, loud guitars, harmonies and all songs about getting older but staying attached to the spirit of your youth. I

have singles coming out every month, and the single that comes out when I’m in Cairns is called ‘Heavy Metal’, so I’ll be performing some of my new singles.”

Mr Lee promised a show that was as fun as it would also be introspective that would get fans on their feet.

“It’s always funny being a performer. You need to balance trying to keep the spirits up and have fun, because life is hard in this world, but also without being delusional because my music is about being a human,” he said.

“But it’s fun. I have 30 years of songs, which is a big catalogue, that even if you don’t know my music there’s probably six or seven songs in my set that you’ll recognise, so it’s fun to have that body of work to draw from.

“It’ll be a fun, rocking, high energy show. These are songs that the audience has grown up with – ‘Cigarettes Will Kill You’, ‘Catch My Disease’, ‘Gamble Everything for Love’, ‘Love Me Like The World Is Ending’.”

Mr Lee said this would be a show that everyone who loved music could enjoy.

l CAIRNS REGION

AFTER a successful launch in March and over 500 copies sold, local author and journalist Kirsty Nancarrow is hoping her book, ‘Himalayan Dreams: The Story of Som Tamang’, continues to create change for children in Nepal. The book tells the story of local man Som Tamang, originally from Batase Village in Nepal, and his inspiring journey to prevent human trafficking and child marriage in his village while also providing education for the children of Batase.

With an official launch on March 2, which over 100 Cairns residents attended, book events in Cairns, Adelaide, Darwin and Alice Springs, more than 500 copies sold and reaching number one in Amazon on its first week of sales, Ms Nancarrow is hoping the ripple effect of Himalayan Dreams and Mr Tamang’s testimony is reflected in more awareness, support and donations for children in Batase, especially a Rotary $400,000 fundraiser to go towards the Batase school in Nepal.

“The book has sold in five countries, and it went to number one on Amazon on the first week for Asian biographies,” she said. “So if you like the book and have felt inspired by Som’s story please donate.” Visit https://bit.ly/3WIMg0K

Our theatre family is what keeps the Clink alive and successful. WE REQUIRE A VARYING SKILL SET OF VOLUNTEERS! If your interested in learning some new skills, having some fun and meeting new friends fill in the expression of interest form at: www.clinktheatre.com.au And our volunteer co-ordinator will be in touch.

Ben Lee is set to put on a breathtaking show at Tank 5 tonight. Picture: Supplied

Wolfe Brothers to rock Edge Hill Tavern

Guys ‘living their dream’

l MANOORA

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

TASSIE’S best country duo The Wolfe Brothers are bringing their ‘Still Livin’ the Dream Tour’ to the Edge Hill Tavern this Saturday for a rockin’ night out.

The most awarded country duo in Australian history, The Wolfe Brothers, are taking their tour north for a night at the Edge Hill Tavern tomorrow, where they’ll perform some of their new tunes, their best hits and also some classic 90’s Australian country hits.

One half of the duo – Nick Wolfe – said they were excited for a fun live show in Cairns.

“We’ve been coming to Cairns for some years now and it’s one of our favourite places to play.

The further north you go the more chilled out, fun and loving

the fans get, and we can’t wait to be there,” he said.

“We’re in the process of writing for our next album and it’s going to be nice to debut some of the songs and try them out on tour, and see what’s going to work. We’re very grateful to be touring musicians and we have the most fun on stage.”

The duo, who have just become the most awarded country duo in Australian country music history with nine Golden Guitars, will bring some of their greatest hits like ‘Damn Good Mates’, ‘That Kinda Night’ and ‘One Beer at a Time’ on stage for their Cairns fans.

“We’re going to be playing a lot of the songs which have been big for us, our hits, we’ll play some of our new stuff and, most importantly, we always give 120 per cent to every show we’re doing, and our fans are awesome too so it’s going to be a party,”

Mr Wolfe said. “The songs I love putting on stage change every night but at the moment I’m really loving playing ‘Livin’ the Dream’. We also do some different medleys of music that has influenced us over the years, so we’re doing a 90s country medley because 90s country is a big part of why we play country music.

“It’s cool to mix things up and try different things which is what we hope to do.”

The duo will also bring upand-coming country starlet Max Jackson.

Tickets are still available, and Mr Wolfe invited country fans to party with them tomorrow.

“Live music is a fantastic thing, it’s a great thing for the community, it brings people together, so let’s come together and have a good time,” he said. For tickets, visit www.thewolfebrothers.com

CPAC | SAT 18 MAY

A whole day of puppet fun at CPAC, with The One Who Planted Trees* and make your own with the FREE Tropical Punch Pupeteers.

COURT HOUSE GALLERY | SAT 18 MAY

Check out all the FREE Crazy Creatures. The Beasties petting zoo on the lawn will have you giggling all the way inside, where there’s more fun to be had at the Pop-Up Library & Crazy Creatures exhibition.

TANKS ARTS CENTRE | SUN 19 MAY

Erth’s Shark Dive* invites you to get up close and personal with a Shark. Don’t miss all the FREE adventures with Pat Malone’s Magic Garden, Proudfoot & Friends, the 5 Minutes of Fame Stage, Wombat Stew Story Walk, ScreenPLAY, and hands on fun with our Creation Stations.

Nick and Tom Wolfe will be performing in Cairns on Saturday night. Picture: Supplied

WHAT’S

GUIDED SNORKEL TOUR @ MOORE REEF

l FRI MAY 17TH, 8:00AM-5:00PM

Book your Moore Reef tour and dive into a world of wonder. Glide through crystal-clear waters and explore vibrant marine life, with your booking you can experience a complimentary 60-minute guided snorkel tour led by our knowledgeable marine biologists. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the reef while learning fascinating insights about its inhabitants. Free guided snorkel tour upgrade with your trip to Moore Reef! Save $52 per adult! Valid for travel up to 21st June 2024.

Book your ticket through Sunlover Reef Cruises website.

CAIRNS CHILDREN’S FESTIVAL 2024

l SAT MAY 18TH, 9:00AM-5:00PM

Mark your calendars for the most epic kid-centric weekend ever – the ultimate fiesta for little legends aged 12 and under! Saturday May 18th and Sunday May 19th, we turn the Cairns Performing Arts Centre, Court House Gallery, Tanks Arts Centre and Cairns Botanic Gardens into a wonderland of giggles, exploration and outrageous fun!

For more information visit the Cairns Regional Council website.

LIVE MUSIC @ THE COURTHOUSE

l SAT MAY 18TH, 2:00PM-4:00PM

Rotary Cairns Northern Beaches would like to invite you to our High Tea fundraiser at Rise & Bake Smithfield. This event is to raise funds so that we can continue to support youth initiatives in the community. The afternoon will include a glass of bubbles or juice on arrival, a lucky door prize and a small cent auction for attendees to take part in, plus of course the scrumptious high tea provided by the amazing staff at Rise & Bake.

Gather some friends and/or family and come along for an afternoon of fun! Book your ticket today at: https://events.humanitix.com/LADIES-IN-MAY-HIGH-TEA

ANASTASIA KLOSE @ NORTHSITE

l SAT MAY 18TH, 12:00PM-1:00PM

Mossman-based artist Anastasia Klose sings in the Gallery within her exhibition ‘For thy sake I in love am grown’ from Tuesday to Saturday 12pm – 1pm.

This exhibition of new drawings, video and performance is a response to the Klose’s “random, exhausting and depressing adventures in conservation” and the artist’s growing awareness of diminishing biodiversity in Queensland and imminent threats to its unique landscapes. Pop in and enjoy this free experience.

ABBA MUSICAL SINGALONG @ GERMAN CLUB

l FRI MAY 17TH, 5:00PM

Join us for a night of infectious melodies, groovy beats, and non-stop fun. Whether you’re a die-hard Abba fan or simply enjoy catchy tunes, this singalong extravaganza promises an unforgettable experience. Don your best disco attire and prepare to unleash your inner superstar, sing and dance the night away.

Come join the chorus of Abba lovers and make memories that will last a lifetime!

https://www.facebook.com/events/814645023800389

YOUNG TALENT @ PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

l SAT MAY 18TH, 2:00PM

Presenting the second of this year’s Cairns Classical Music Group concerts, “Showcasing Young Talent”. The winners of both the junior music bursary and senior music bursary will be performing and receiving their awards. We will also be inviting previous bursary winners and other very promising young musicians to perform. Come and join us for what has proven to be a very popular concert.

Book your ticket at Trybooking https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1197311

GIG Guide

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

FRIDAY

Cairns Cruising Yacht Squadron Barbary Coasters, 4:00pm

Straight on the Beach Wind and Wood, 4:00pm

Dunwoody’s Hotel Gumpy Savidas, 4:00pm

Salt House Groove Therapy, 5:00pm

German Club Cairns Mamma Mia Singalong, 5:00pm

The Crown Hotel Cairns Janna Mercedes, 6:00pm

Ellis Beach Bar & Grill Dave Cooke, 6:00pm

Cazaly’s Cairns Kick Start, 6:30pm

Tanks Arts Centre Ben Lee, 7:30pm

Brothers Cairns Mississippi Shakedown, 8:00pm

Bar36 The Reef Hotel Casino Kylie Auldist, 9:00pm

SATURDAY

Ellis Beach Bar & Grill Josh Kenwright, 2:00pm

Yorkeys Knob Boating Club Lady Valiant, 3:00pm

Salt House Tim Smith, 5:00pm

The Benson Hotel Groove Odyssey, 6:00pm

Cazaly’s Cairns Rowly Rock & Roll, 6:30pm

Trinity Beach Tavern Big Pups, 7:00pm

Edge Hill Tavern Wolfe Brothers, 8:00pm

Red Beret Hotel Flavour Live, 8:00pm

Bar36 The Reef Hotel Casino Kylie Auldist, 9:00pm

SUNDAY

Ellis Beach Bar & Grill Satya Matteo, 1:00pm

Dunwoody’s Hotel The Vibes, 2:00pm

Yorkeys Knob Boating Club Barbary Coasters, 3:00pm

O’Shea’s Wind and Wood, 4:00pm

Palm Cove Tavern Big Pups, 4:00pm

L’Unico Sax Man, 4:30pm

Salt House Pauly P, 6:00pm

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

Are

www.cairnslocalnews.com.au/gig-guide

Take a minute... Puzzles for you

Solutions

Weekly Horoscopes

CROSSWORD

You may find a rare antique this week. You can expect to have some problems with skin, bones, or teeth if you haven’t taken proper care of them. You may have difficulties finishing projects you start. Don’t overdo it.

If you have treated them equitably, you might be able to count on their loyalty. Be prepared to take care of the issues at hand. Move forward if you want to turn your life around. They will not have the patience to wait for you to complete things that they’ve asked you to do.

Do not sign your life away. You have two choices; Get out on your own, or bend to your mate’s whims. It won’t take much to upset your lover. Disputes may start because of a lack of honesty.

Get them to pitch in if you need help. You could expand your circle of friends if you get involved in unusual activities. Emotional relationships will be plentiful if you attend group activities. Make career changes that may increase your income.

Some of that extra energy you have stored up might just be put to good use. Finish projects that have been hanging over your head. Seminars will provide you with knowledge and amusement. You’ve been a little down and you need a lift.

Your talent will be recognized. Make plans that will take you to exotic destinations. Overindulgence will mean poor health. Relatives will want to get together.

You will enjoy the interaction with youngsters. Don’t overextend yourself to add luxury items to your entertainment centre. Take time to find out if anyone has a better suggestion before you decide for the whole family. You will have to be sure not to burn the candle at both ends.

You have bent over backward trying to help them and now it’s time to let them stand on their own two feet. Try to compromise rather than having an all-out battle. Change will be required to make your life more harmonious. You will have a problem holding on to your cash this week.

22. a North African dish, named after the earthenware pot in which it is cooked (6)

24. a drink or other liquid cooled in or containing pieces of ice (4)

25. a hairstyle in which the hair hangs in long thick twisted pieces (10)

27. hostility or ill feeling (6)

28. to seat someone in a place associated with a position of authority or influence (8)

DOWN

1. skin-tight, one-piece garments for the lower part of the body and the legs (6)

2. a competition between runners, horses or vehicles, to see which is the fastest (4)

Arguments will flare up if you get backed into an emotional corner. Chances to express your ideas and beliefs can bring popularity as long as you’re not arrogant. Protect your interests legally if necessary. Relationships will be emotional this week.

You are best not to discuss your personal life with others. Be careful not to get involved in other people’s personal affairs. Don’t bother complaining, do the work yourself. Exhaustion combined with overindulgence could result in minor health problems.

ACROSS

Do not let lovers cost you money or take advantage of you. Your personal situation is fluctuating. Trips, educational pursuits, or projects that could lead to new outlooks should be on your agenda. Someone you work with may be withholding valuable information.

8. situated on the banks of a river (8)

9. the basic or inherent qualities of something (6)

10. of fabric becoming thin and tattered with age (10)

11. resembling a rope, especially in being long, strong, and fibrous (4)

3. slowed, reduced, or held back (8)

4. to make or become larger (7)

5. to break or remove the seal of something (6)

6. to fry meat, fish, or vegetables rapidly over a high heat while stirring briskly (4,6)

7. an offer of marriage (8)

13. informal British slang used to to mean nothing at all (5,5)

12. to say something in order to obtain an answer or some information (3,3)

False information from someone trying to start problems is likely. Do not get involved with individuals who are already committed to others. Be diplomatic but stem when it comes to giving of yourself. Your practical approach to life may charm someone who has been observing you.

14. a large-scale and hasty movement of people to an area where gold has been discovered (4,4)

15. a small bomb thrown by hand or launched mechanically (7)

17. a loose branching cluster of flowers, as in oats (7)

20. a state of temporary disuse or suspension (8)

16. someone who’s ruddy-cheeked or who flushes easily (8)

18. a medicine taken or given to counteract a particular poison (8)

19. a person who controls a game and makes sure the rules are followed (7)

21. the practice of going nude especially in sexually mixed groups (6)

23. to bomb somewhere with nuclear weapons (6)

26. a green, tube-like fruit with a mild, grassy flavour (4)

Real Estate

City’s largest hotel on market

Pullman Cairns International – with 324 rooms – last

l FOR SALE

| Nick Dalton

THE Pullman Cairns

International hotel is being sold by Prime Value’s Shakespeare Property Group after nine years of ownership.

The five-star city centre hotel occupies an 8139sqm site and comprises 324 guest rooms, 11 conference and meeting rooms, a lobby bar, a day spa and gymnasium facilities, and basement parking for 184 cars. It last sold for $75.08 million in 2015.

CBRE Hotels’ Michael Simpson, Wayne Bunz and Hayley Manvell are managing the sale via an expression of interest campaign set to be launched later this month.

Accor Hotels manages the property under the Pullman brand, but vacant possession of the hotel, which underwent a $17m refurbishment in 2021, is available upon sale.

Mr Simpson said the

offering included a twolevel, 2644sqm retail and commercial arcade, ‘Village Lane’, featuring 23 tenancies.

“This is arguably Cairns’ best hotel and has immense potential due to its central location, extensive size, and various value-add opportunities. These factors are expected to generate significant interest from both domestic and international investors,” he said.

“As the largest luxury hotel in Cairns in room size, scale and amenities, as well as possessing the largest conference facilities outside the Cairns Convention Centre, the hotel attracts a broad range of guests.

“This opportunity offers purchasers historically consistent financial performance, through diversified income streams including accommodation, food and beverage, conferencing, day spa and passive revenue from the retail and commercial arcade and basement car park.”

Mr Bunz said the vacant

possession available upon sale “opens up the opportunity to rebrand and reposition for owner operators or alternate brands”.

“In addition, the increased cost of construction postpandemic has materially impacted the viability of new hotel projects, with significant barriers to entry to replicate this type of product in the market, enhancing the attractiveness of this offering,” he said.

Average hotel room rates in Cairns have risen by 41 per cent since pre-pandemic levels and the market is still in the process of recovering when it comes to occupancy rates and international visitors.

As at the end of December 2023, international visitation was 21 per cent – a decrease from the pre-pandemic level of 45 per cent – however, with the gradual recovery of the international inbound market, particularly from China, there is optimism around future hotel performance.

The Pullman Cairns International hotel has a commanding presence in the Cairns CBD. Picture: Nick Dalton

Motoring

Fully-electric vehicle sales drop as consumers prefer a blend of old and new

Buyers keen on hybrid SUVs

l CAR REGISTRATIONS

| Nick Dalton

BUYERS are steering more towards hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles than fully-electric cars.

Record car sales last month of 97,202 vehicles propelled the year-to-date sales to 401,654, a substantial increase of more than 50,515 vehicles compared with the same year-to-date point in 2023.

Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) chief executive Tony Weber said hybrid and plugin hybrid vehicles saw a notable increase, capturing 18.3 per cent of the market compared to 7.5 per cent in the previous year.

“However, battery electric vehicles saw a slight decrease in sales accounting for 6.4 per cent of new sales, a decrease from 7.9 per cent at the same time last year,” he said.

“We are witnessing a shift in consumer preferences towards more sustainable and efficient vehicles.”

Mr Weber said the continued

growth in the market had seen the industry break 10 record monthly sales results in the past year.

“April’s result highlights strong consumer confidence in purchasing new vehicles, surpassing our expectations and is a testament to consumer choice and the industry’s resilience in a challenging economic landscape,” he said.

The demand for new vehicles has been buoyed by a strong market appetite for SUVs and light commercial vehicles, consistent with trends observed in the first quarter of the year.

Notably, the SUV category continues to dominate sales, representing 55.7 per cent of total market share in April. Light commercials held steady, claiming 22 per cent of sales, reflecting ongoing demand for vehicles that meet the work and lifestyle requirements of Australians.

The Toyota RAV4, including hybrids, was Australia’s top selling vehicle with sales of 5857, followed by the Ford Ranger (5569), Toyota HiLux (4693) and Ford Everest (2400).

Westco Mazda general manager Scott King with a Mazda CX-60 which also comes as a plug-in hybrid. Picture: Nick Dalton

Cairns Local

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Lady 76 years seeks health-conscious friend.

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Local News Cairns

ADMINISTRATION

Cairns Local News is seeking a motivated person to fill our office administration role.

Friday May 17th

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

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

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

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

Saturday May 18th

Experience is preferred but not necessary as full training will be available to the successful applicant.

The successful person will:

• Be our first point of contact

AL-ANON FAMILY GROUPS

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

Al-Anon can help you.

Meetings held weekly at:

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

• Edmonton: Thursdays, 12pm to 1pm

• Kuranda: Mondays, 11am to 12 noon

For further information, Call 1300 25 2666 or www.al-anon.org.au

• Undertake all general office and administrative duties

• Take classifieds and directory advertisements

• Enter and reconcile accounts into Xero

• Process national advertising bookings. The position can be full-time or permanent part-time for the right person.

Cairns Local News is a community, independent free product and offers a great opportunity for the right person to learn a myriad of valuable skills.

While no experience is necessary, the position would suit someone with excellent customer service, good administration skills and knowledge of relevant office software.

Send your cover letter and resume to carl@cairnslocalnews.com.au Applications close May 31st 2024.

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

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

El Arish Pocket Makers Market: 60840 Bruce Hwy, 017:30-12:30

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

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

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

Malanda: Showgrounds, 07:30-12:30

Mareeba Markets: 100 Park, 7:00-12:00

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

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

Sunday May 19th

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

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

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

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

Wondecla: Wondecla Sports Ground, 07:00-12:30

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

Swimmers break Australian records

Duo holding their breaths

l FREE DIVING

| Isaac Colman

FREEDIVING enthusiasts from across the region held their breaths as local couple Ant Judge and Zuza Reitingerova attended Brisbane Freediving Club’s Fishes Pool Competition, breaking both Australian and Czech Republic national records.

Held in March, the competition saw Mr Judge finally reclaim his breath hold record after 11 years, achieving an astonishing 8 minutes and 17 seconds underwater, with Ms Reitingerova also setting the Czech Republic depth record with a jaw-dropping 153m.

With his main passion being depth freediving, Mr Judge has been a freediver for most of his life, having broken nine freediving records for Australia, being able to dive 90m on a single breath, and currently running local freediving centre Cairns Freediving School.

Having moved from the Czech Republic to work in the Cairns Dive industry, Ms Reitingerova met Mr Judge as a colleague, spending most weekends spearfishing and freediving together.

With her first taste of breaking national records being just

last year, she was selected to represent Czech Republic in Korea at the freediving pool world championships, where she swam 164m to claim the Czech record for distance without fins.

Mr Judge said that the training for this competition has definitely paid off with this win.

“Training for competition is always hard,” he said.

“We normally train between 3-5 times a week, mostly very early mornings.

“Freediving is a very mental sport, and we spend an equal

Sport Results

GORDONVALE BOWLS

Bruno Destro Shield May 4th and 5th: 8 teams from clubs all over the region competed. Overall winners were Marlin Coast, with Gordonvale Bowls Club as runners up. Congratulations to all participants. Thursday bowls: Raffle winner: Frank Rich; Winners: Alan Peterson, Rob Moody and Peter Mulkearns; R/up: Frank Rich, Joe Jackson and Warren Sten.

MOSSMAN BOWLS

Winners:David White, Terry Richards & Nev Tesch def Warren McCoist, Peter Mc-

Grory & Joe Girgenti +26; R/ up: Steve Cue & Nev Fletcher def David Beaumont & Greg McLean +19; Sas, Bill Allison & Allistair Douglas def Charlie Toohey, Bernie Savage & Peter Worley +8; Darryl Hoskin, Jock Constantine & Gordon Henderson def Ranald Edwards, Greg Lewis & John Arnold +7; Bill Smith & Tony Brylack def Bernie Wolland & Brian King +4.

BROTHERS EDMONTON BOWLS

Ladies’: Thursday May 9th

Social bowls winners: C Tay-

Dementia Carers

amount of time training our minds to be strong as we do our bodies.

“A lot of the drills we do are about being able to be comfortable mentally, while our bodies are incredibly uncomfortable.”

The couple also competed in the Australian Pool Championships in Melbourne earlier this month, doing well, but the official results have yet to be published.

Ms Reitingerova said that she was looking towards the upcoming world championships, this time held in Lithuania.

“My goal is to swim over 200m underwater,” she said.

“Only one year ago, 150m seemed out of reach.

“I have been selected again to represent Czech Republic at the world championship, this time in Lithuania. I would love to perform at my best, this time with my family watching.”

Mr Judge said he simply just loved coaching, teaching, and competing in freediving.

“Freediving is not all about holding your breath for as long as possible,” he said.

“Freediving is about being calm and at peace with yourself, this is reflected most while underwater.”

lor, S Bates, D Beggs. Consistency Singles: N Kinda defeated L Backhouse. Game called for May 23rd: Consistency singles D Begg v K O’Halloran with marker being L Ceely. Men’s: Wednesday May 8th: Overall winners: B Penny, A Smith, Wazza. Winner of first game: A Del Favero, M O’ Halloran, R Jorgensen. Winner of second game: D Jacoora, J Mason.Saturday May 18th: Men’s division 3 pennants round 4: Stratford v Edmonton to be played at Gordonvale Bowls Club.

MARLIN COAST BOWLS

Tuesday afternoon men’s triples winners: Paul, David, Brian; R/up: Hugh, Bob, Glenn. Tuesday night bowls: Hans, Tv, Shooee, Tommo,

Pride focused after loss

l RUGBY LEAGUE | Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

THE Northern Pride has lost its first spot in the competition after losing a match against the powerful PNG Hunters 30-12, but not all hope is lost with the Pride sitting in fourth position.

Coach Eric Smith has his eyes set on the round 10 match against the Mackay Cutters tomorrow to regain the team’s confidence after a rough game against the Hunters in round 8 last weekend.

Despite being a match with a lot of errors, Mr Smith maintains his trust in the Pride’s defence.

“I’m disappointed with not getting those two points. We were our own worst enemy, we started really well with a 12-0 lead in the first 10 minutes but then we just couldn’t hold a football. We gave away far too much possession,” he said.

“Positive take aways are that we defended well. PNG is one of the toughest in the league and not many teams could make that many errors, 20 errors, and turn them away as much as we did.

“I was really proud of how we dug in and fought.”

The Pride will have to defeat the Cutters tomorrow

Sam. Wednesday mixed bowls winners: G Andersen, A Jacobs, Pat Mac; R/up: Valerie, Greg Lewis, Len Kenshole. Thursday mixed triples winners: Bill/Rhys, Tymms, Crackers; R/up: Patrick, Linda, Laurie. Saturday morning scroungers winners: Rose, R/up: Andy M. Club championships: Ladies singles A grade: V Still def C Thompson 25-21; A Lim def T McAlary 25-16; J Baumann def J Smith 25-3; J Walford, R Gillman def R Lloyd, N Robson 25-13.

EDGE HILL BOWLS

Ladies club championship fours final: Maggi Bruni, Cornelia Smith, Annette Evans and Yvonne Bolton def Jill Alexander, Elaine Whitehead, Tricia

in their home ground at Print Stadium to reclaim their top three position. Kick off is at 6pm and the match will be available for streaming on QPLUS.

Pride chief executive Garreth Smith said the team was ready to fight to regain the top spot and announced the team’s latest signing.

“While the result may not have been what we had hoped for against the

DeRon and Lou Pomroy 18-14. Ladies championship A singles: Cornelia Smith def Tricia DeRon 25-22. Consistency singles: Jill Alexander-Sachse def Lou Pomroy 102-88. Saturday May 11th mixed social bowls winners: Yvonne Bolton and Barry Butt; R/up: Lou Pomroy and Tricia DeRon. Saturday May 11th District Side playing in Brisbane - Tropical Far North team finished second in division 2. Club championship

A singles: W Hewitt def A Nakata 25-12; M Kowalczyk def P Ryan 25-18; J Walker def P Lee 25-11. Club championship

B singles: W Hunter def W Nicholson 25-24. Club championship pairs: J Hyytinen and W Hewitt def S Bragger and P Ryan 18-12; J Rilley and A

PNG Hunters, our team displayed resilience and fought hard until the final whistle,” he said.

“We now turn our focus to our upcoming away game against the Mackay Cutters.

“As we prepare for this crucial match, we are very excited to announce that last week we confirmed the signing of Nick Lui-Toso who last played for the Northern Pride in 2022."

Nakata def L Green and M Taylor 20-12. W Petrohilos and A Hammond 27 def S Spina and T McAlary 17.

WEST CAIRNS MEN’S BOWLS

Tuesday 7th winners: team 5 Rob Morris, Maurie Hetherton, Steve Kavanagh; R/up: team 13 Joe Jackson, Ted Hamilton, Phil Buntain. Thirsty Thursday best players: Locky, Slippery, Mick Ford. Friday Night scroungers winner Ken Vivian; R/up: Ann Winsor. Club Championship A grade singles winners: G Blades, A Radford, S Ford, T Moulds, S Kavanagh, P Buntain. Sunday 12th winners: team 4 Les Idiens, Fred Clarke, S. Ford; R/up: team 1 D Nicholles, W Sten, N Mallyon.

Nick Lui-Toso returns to the Northern Pride. Picture: Supplied

Zuza Retingerovar and Ant Judge.

All Stars-Indigenous round

Matches regarded as one of highlights of AFL calendar in Far North Queensland

l AFL

| John Gillett

AFL Cairns All Star preview

• Women’s All-Star vs Women’s Indigenous and South Pacific 6.15pm at Cazalys Stadium

• Men’s All-Star vs Men’s Indigenous and South Pacific 7.55pm at Cazalys Stadium

WELCOME to one of the flagship weekends on the AFL Cairns calendar.

Outside of the three weeks of finals, this might be the biggest fixture on the calendar.

Certainly, these are the games with the silkiest skills and the most highlight plays as the best players from both competitions show off their immense talents.

Teams have been training together for a couple of weeks as they put aside club-based rivalries and friendships.

Previously the curtain-raiser for the professional game at Cazalys every year, now they are the headline, and deservedly so.

Fans of the NBA should not be dissuaded. While these games involve the most exciting players that AFL Cairns possesses, they are not games for the sake of having a game, or letting players have a holiday.

Not only will every player be desperate to win the immediate game at hand (the inherent desire to compete that these players have is not at all diminished), but they all know a strong showing will go a long way to getting selected into the coveted North Queensland vs South Queensland match in July. From there, anything could happen.

The result of these factors is a spectacle of exhilaratingly fast and free-flowing footy that well and truly lives up to the hype.

If you are in Cairns on Friday night and find yourself with a free evening, you could do a lot worse than coming to Cazalys.

Come by yourself or with your friends and family and treat yourself to the best of what AFL in Far North Queensland has to offer.

Wes Glass (Cairns Saints) notched up his 450th game on Saturday in Port Douglas, (left) Abbey Craig takes a mark to help the Crocs to their first win in the league and (below) Brett McKeown celebrates one of three goals in the Port Douglas Pink In The Tropics round. Pictures: RAWI/AFL Cairns

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