Cairns Local News August 18 2023

Local News Cairns

Lest we forget Vietnam

Tricks of the trade

How plastering company is beating skill shortages

l PORT DOUGLAS

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

AN award-winning plastering firm is showing the big boys how it’s done to combat skill shortages.

Port Douglas-based company

Mark Fletcher Solid Plaster and Texture Coatings is thriving despite the difficulty of getting qualified staff thanks to their employeecentred approach, focusing the workforce on refugees, rehabilitated prisoners, school leavers, and women.

With 17 years in business, and dozens of prolific projects across North Queensland, Mark Fletcher’s plastering firm has built a reputation of excellence in their craft and as an employer that provides op-

portunities to marginalised groups like refugees and rehabilitated prisoners. There are 17 staff in Cairns and Townsville, including seven refugees (most been in prison for political reasons).

Their efforts have earned them the support of the federal and state governments, Queensland Training and Centacare.

Taking the Tropical North Queensland Training Awards (QTA) employer of the year award in July and with employees like Htoo Khaing winning equity VET student of the year, the company keeps growing and business manager Ursula Donnellan, who is also nominated for vocational student of the year, says it’s all because of their unique team.

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Mark Fletcher Solid Plaster and Texture Coatings tradie Htoo Khaing was winner of the equity student of the year at the Tropical North Queensland Training Awards. Picture: Supplied

Highway overpass opens up

l GORDONVALE

|

Nick Dalton

A CRITICAL piece of Far North Queensland’s biggest and most complex road and rail infrastructure project – the Menmuny Overpass – has been officially commissioned, marking the final step towards the completion of the $535 million project.

The structure spans 141m and opens to motorists today, providing safe access to the highway – north, south, east and west, including Yarrabah.

Federal Infrastructure and Transport Minister Catherine King said “not only will this 10.5km of highway be upgraded and duplicated, but through this jointly funded project we are delivering new and upgraded intersections, new local roads, cycleways, drainage, an impressive overpass and pedestrian crossings”.

Senator for Queensland Nita Green said it was the Far North’s largest road and rail infrastructure project, “and its completion will be a massive boost to the community and the estimated 20,000 motorists who travel this section of the Bruce Highway every day”.

“This is the busiest two-lane section of the Bruce Highway between Cairns and Brisbane, these upgrades are necessary and I look forward to seeing them complete,” she said.

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Our Vacation Care Program is a separate service for school aged children, which has a wide variety of holiday fun and education. Our program is designed to encourage active and healthy children. Only limited positions are available

Honouring our Diggers

Special Vietnam Veterans’ Day services in Cairns and Gordonvale

l

CAIRNS REGION

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

THIS year marks the 50th anniversary of the end of Australia’s involvement in the Vietnam War, making for an especially important Vietnam Veterans’ Day today, with memorials taking place in Cairns and Gordonvale.

The Cairns RSL Sub Branch on the Esplanade and the Gordonvale cenotaph in Norman Park will be host to the memorial services to commemorate FNQ Vietnam veterans and their families today. Both services will begin at 5pm and community members of all ages are encouraged to participate.

Vietnam veteran and RSL Queensland Far Northern District president Kenneth Willoughby encouraged the community to celebrate and support Cairns’ veterans.

“Vietnam Veterans’ Day is commemorated annually on August 18, which is the anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan – one of the most significant conflicts for Australian service personnel who fought in the Vietnam War,” he said.

“This year, being the 50th anniversary of the end of Australia’s involvement in the Vietnam War, makes it an incredibly meaningful time for everyone to come together and acknowledge the more than 60,000 Australians who served in the Vietnam War from 1962 to 1973.

“We’re looking forward to seeing the veteran and local community come together to honour the service of our Vietnam veterans and acknowledge their legacy that lives on today.”

Kel Ryan registered for National Service and was conscripted into the Australian Army in June 1965. He first deployed to Vietnam as an Infantry Soldier in D Company 5RAR the following year.

He champions the importance of commemoration among veterans, especially Vietnam veterans, and the broader community, and will lead the Cairns RSL Sub Branch Vietnam Veterans’ Day service today.

“It’s the fact that I personally contributed to our national story, and I’m very pleased and proud to have done that,” he said.

Gordonvale RSL Sub Branch gold badge life member and Vietnam veteran Dave Chalk said this would be one of the few times Gordonvale held its own service.

“We’ve only held like two or three events for Vietnam veterans in Gordonvale, we used to go down to Cairns be-

cause they have like 30-40 Vietnam veterans but, this being such an important anniversary, we decided to hold our own event,” he said.

“We invited anybody in Gordonvale who’d like to attend and at this stage I have about four to five Vietnam veterans coming. One of them is Lt Gen. John Grey, who’s retired, Lt. Gen. John Grey was actually my captain in 1969,” Mr Chalk said.

“This is always a significant

day for us (veterans), beyond the Battle of Long Tan it’s a day for us to remember the mates that we lost while we were there.

“In my case, in the 12 months I was in Vietnam there was 50 per cent loss of our squadron, a couple of the blokes that we lost were very good mates of mine so it’s a time to remember.”

For more information on Vietnam Veteran’s Day, visit, rslqld.org/vietnamveteransday

Vietnam veteran Kel Ryan of Redlynch will lead 50th anniversary services at the Cairns cenotaph today Picture: RSL Queensland

Drumming the way to better mental health

l CAIRNS

| Gail Sedorkin

KICKING off Multicultural

Month in rhythmic style, Centacare FNQ has hosted the city’s cultural leaders to a group drumming session at its mental health coaching hub at Cairns North.

Led by 10 Thomas Street’s mental health coach Stefan Schlechta, the group, representing Japanese, Indonesian, Muslim and Thai communities, took their seats and djembe drum to experience the therapeutic, wellbeing enhancing benefits of group drumming.

“What we do here at Thomas Street is provide a whole range of group and individual therapy sessions that are free and open to anyone between 18 and 65 years of age, who have a presenting issue,” Mr Schlechta said.

“The leaders attending this week’s drumming session embraced the opportunity to learn something new and quickly picked up the rhythms with harmonic effect. They also took turns sharing some of the issues that affect their communi-

ties,” he said. Mr Schlechta said many people, particularly those living in multicultural communities, feel isolated – and when challenged by issues associated with loneliness such as depression, anger management or addiction – feel bereft of help with nowhere to turn.

“What we do is provide people with tools they can use every day and particularly when they run into problems,” he said.

“On Mondays, we meditate. On Tuesdays, we drum. On Wednesdays we make art, on Thursdays, we look at women’s empowerment, and finally, on Fridays, we focus on anger management and conflict resolution.”

Centacare FNQ and the coaching team at 10 Thomas Street actively advocate for the vibrant multicultural community in Cairns and in observing multiculturalism will celebrate diversity throughout August and beyond.

Centacare FNQ mental health and wellbeing manager Nathan Lee said mental health was integral to a harmonious and healthy community.

Regional council wants to stop residents giving food to wildlife

Don’t feed the animals

l CAIRNS REGION

| Nick Dalton

PEOPLE will be banned from feeding wild birds and animals in parks and reserves in Cairns to prevent noise and illness if amendments to local laws are passed.

Cairns Regional Council is updating its local laws and Cr Kathy Zeiger told last week’s planning and environmental committee meeting that feeding cockatoos and curlews had resulted in flocks of birds disturbing neighbourhoods with their constant screeching.

She said feeding the birds mince and sausages were also

No skills shortages at plaster company

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“During COVID we collaborated with Centacare, which have ready-to-work immigrants and refugees, so they provide them with a cert 1 in construction and a white card,” Ms Donnellan said.

“We have two refugees from Bhutan who started with us five years ago, Dhan and Santa Gurang, who did their apprenticeship with us. They had very limited English but their work ethic was second to none.

“Five years later, they are leading our sites Dhan leads 45 commercial sites in Cairns and Santa is running three sites in Townsville and he won apprentice of the year for Masters Builders last year.

“Currently, we have seven refugees working with us and because of them we’ve been able to expand our business, and with the reputation of our company, we’re attracting more local staff.”

Company founder and managing director Mark Fletcher said the firm was looking to create more opportunities for people who didn’t usually get them while putting a focus on their trade.

“I think this makes us quite unique. I’ve worked in prisons for 14 years in New Zealand, so I think we have qualities that we can address with these people and give them the opportunities they deserve,” he said.

making them sick. Cr Zeiger said that people had been feeding cockatoos and curlews at Bayview Heights.

“ … they are so noisy and cause a lot of distress,” she said.

She said suggested changes to combat barking dogs would not require a minimum of three complaints but up to three instances. The council may even act on just one complaint.

Cr Zeiger said the council wanted more power to clampdown on unregistered vehicles left on roads and streets.

She said the council would have more power to ensure broken and fallen fences along cane railways were fixed on safety and security grounds.

Cr Zeiger said there were particular examples at Forest Gardens. “We want them to get rid of the fence and put-up decent fences,” she said.

Cr Amy Eden said she received many complaints about security officers being heavyhanded about the fishing ban on the Cairns Esplanade.

“Fishing along the Esplanade has been an iconic Cairns activity for generations. It’s not simply about catching fish. It’s about family bonding, connecting with friends, and immersing ourselves in the beauty of our surroundings,” she said in a newsletter.

“This cherished tradition contributes to the very essence

of what we call ‘Cairns-ness’.

“Unfortunately our requests to fish off our Esplanade have fallen on deaf ears. Council officers want it banned. Bring back fishing.”

Residents will have the chance to have their say on proposed changes to the local laws.

The suggested amendments reflect the needs and expectations of the community on a range of issues from fines for wandering dogs to mechanical work being carried out on roads.

Mayor Bob Manning said the local laws review process was a unique opportunity for residents to influence how day-to-

day activities were regulated.

“We receive thousands of suggestions and complaints from residents and businesses every year,” he said. “This feedback is a key component of the local laws review process and ensures our regulations are keeping pace with community expectations.

“As well as tackling problems such as abandoned vehicles and illegal camping, the review has focused on cutting red tape to make it easier for residents to obtain permits and other permissions for events and activities.”

The closing date for submissions is 4pm on September 13.

Visit: https://bit.ly/3QDSlbC

“And if things go wrong, we’re there to help them and guide them. We’ll work with them to get them the ultimate opportunity with this trade at the end of it.”

Mr Fletcher said the company hoped to grow the interest in wet trades in the future.

“We want to get young kids and people who never get an opportunity involved in these trades because they’re going to disappear if we don’t start to attract more apprentices,” he said.

“Call me anytime, we’re here to help you, whatever skills you have we’ll use and the ones you don’t we’ll give you. We’ll treat you and pay you properly, all you have to do is give us a good day work.”

For more information, visit www.solidplastertexture.com.au

registration details. Yumiko Millward and Sayoko Akamatsu embraced the drumming sessions. Picture: Supplied

Cairns’ division 2 to be a fierce contest with at least five candidates

Election battleground

l SOUTHERN CORRIDOR

| Nick Dalton

CAIRNS Regional Council’s division 2 is fast becoming one of the hotly-contested seats in next year’s local government elections.

With incumbent councillor Rob Pyne departing with his eyes on central city division 5, the southern corridor location has at least five contenders: high school teacher Steve Lippingwell, businessman Matthew Tickner and former councillor John Schilling as well as candidates expected from mayoral hopeful Terry James’ Unity team and second mayoral contender Amy Eden’s team.

Mr Schilling lost the division in 2020 to Cr Pyne (4014 to 4428) but is keen to return.

“I enjoyed it. I think I did a good job. It was a real sense of achievement,” he said.

“Prior to me they had nothing apart from Sugarworld.”

Now the division had Petersen Park which doubled sporting fields from two to four, he said.

But Mr Schilling said there were other projects that had been pushed aside such as the $12-$13 million Edmonton pool (replaced by the Esplanade dining precinct upgrade during COVID) which he said he had arranged the finance for, a full upgrade of Southside Gymnas-

tics Club, a $1m commitment from South Cairns AFL towards upgrading Tom Murray Park after the council had built a car park and changing and storage rooms, as well as a rugby union club proposed at Fuller Park.

“These things need to be pushed back in front of the council. They have been forgotten,” he said.

Mr Schilling said he was standing as an independent, not part of the Unity team which he was previously.

Mr Tickner is a south Cairns resident, raising a family with his wife Pippa and their two-

year-old son Winston. He operates a civil engineering design business Progression Design and Development.

Mr Tickner said as a current vice-president and advocacy sub-committee chairman of the Cairns Chamber of Commerce, he knew what it took to “advocate for his community and put into action the initiatives which drive results”.

“The local community has been told time and time again by representatives that the south of Cairns has continued to be overlooked and they will resolve the issues we face. Noth-

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Southern corridor upgrades

FROM PAGE 1

Queensland Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the new highway would “future-proof this section of the Cairns Southern Access Corridor for years to come”.

State Member for Mulgrave Curtis Pitt said the overpass would enable motorists’ safe access to the highway when travelling north to Cairns or south to Gordonvale, as well as access to the east or west without needing to interact with Bruce Highway traffic.

Construction of the 10.5km section of newly duplicated and upgraded Bruce Highway between Edmonton to Gordonvale – the busiest two-lane section of Bruce Highway between Cairns and Brisbane – began in May 2020.

ing has changed and now is the time for action you can believe in,” he said.

Mr Tickner said he had proven his ability to develop a plan of action and drive the plan to results, and his undertaking as a division 2 councillor would be no different.

He said he had a plan of action to focus on service delivery, cost of living and youth crime.

Mr Lippingwell announced his candidacy last week. While he is a ALP member he is running as an independent.

As well as pushing for a rates freeze to help with cost of living

pressures, Mr Lippingwell listed his other key priority as fighting the crime crisis.

“We desperately need a CCTV network installed along the Southside’s crime corridors, which can be accessed by police in real time and deter perpetrators,” he said. “Many parts of the division are also poorly lit, which makes it easier for offenders to move about undetected. Mr Lippingwell will also be lobbying for reinstituting free green waste vouchers leading up to cyclone season, more off lead dog parks and better sporting facilities.

More than 200 million hours of work has been undertaken on the project and involved more than 300 local suppliers and contractors.

The $535 million Edmonton to Gordonvale project is funded by the Australian and Queensland governments under the Bruce Highway Upgrade Program, with the Australian Government committing $428.01 million and the Queensland Government $106.99 million.

The project will fully open to motorists by the end of August 2023, with remaining minor works to be completed in September 2023.

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Former regional councillor John Schilling. Businessman Matthew Tickner. High school teacher Steve Lippingwell.

Driver Reviver is a winner

l CASSOWARY COAST

| Isaac Colman

INNISFAIL’S Driver Reviver site has received a top award for its service.

The Allan McCormac Award is handed out annually to a Driver Reviver site which best seeks solutions to challenges, overcomes adversity or acts above and beyond service requirements.

Site coordinator Michael Sands said he was “blown away” by the award. “It was a wonderful acknowledgement,” he said.

Mr Sands credited the team of volunteers for their efforts.

“I’ve always been a giving person. I can talk to all walks of life, and I don’t judge people. All my volunteers are pretty much like that too, they never let you down. They’re just wonderful people. You can ask them to be here at the drop of a hat and they’re there,” he said.

As well as being beneficial to the local community, Driver Reviver plays a huge role of being along a popular grey nomad caravan route to areas further north.

“We have slowly started to get back a lot of the backpackers too, and they are amazed at Driver Reviver. Nowhere else in the world has anything like it. They’re just blown away.”

No to youth jail project

Petition started to stop a detention centre in town

l EDMONTON | Nick

Dalton

A PETITION to try to stop a new youth detention centre at Edmonton has been launched by a new Cairns Regional Council candidate.

Division 2 hopeful Steve Lippingwell has started the petition after receiving a lot of feedback from residents who don’t want it in suburbia.

“The Queensland Government recently announced that Edmonton is actively being considered for the construction of a youth detention facility,” he said.

“Any site in Edmonton would be unsuitable due to the close proximity of homes, schools, aged care, and the central business hub.

“Edmonton has one of the highest crime rates in Queensland. Building a youth detention facility in a high crime suburb, where attempts to abscond may be assisted by other offenders, is poor planning.”

Mr Lippingwell said it was an issue that was mentioned to him nearly every day as he campaigned around Edmonton, Bentley Park and Mt Sheridan.

“There is talk of a site near the chicken farm in Mt Peter Rd. Another is Thomson Rd. People don’t know where it is going and are being left in a vacuum,” he said.

“Residents are concerned that its proximity to homes and businesses,

such as bottle shops and tobacconists, make attempts to abscond more tempting and poses an unacceptable risk to the community.”

Mr Lippingwell said the government had not consulted the community, causing a lot of concern.

He said the centre needed to be a large site to include support services as well as education and TAFE classes and sporting facilities.

Mr Lippingwell said there was plenty of land at the Lotus Glen Correctional Centre which was close to Mareeba.

He said he was concerned that the proposed opening of the detention centre in 2026 was too far away and that recidivist offenders needed rehabilitation help now.

Long-time resident and former city councillor Fran Lindsay said one of the proposed sites on Mt Peter Rd also backed on to Stokes St and would need a lot of security fencing.

“These young people are trying to get off drugs and alcohol and there are pubs, clubs and bottle shops nearby. Booze and drugs could be passed over the fence,” she said.

Mr Lippingwell is hoping for 5000 signatures and has gathered more than 570 as of Wednesday. The petition closes September 11. There also will be paper versions being distributed around division 2.

Visit: www.parliament.qld.gov.au/Workof-the-Assembly/Petitions/PetitionDetails?id=3934

Multicultural celebration

The community is invited to celebrate the region’s rich diversity at a free family event today (18 August) at Harald Falge Park.

The festivies start at 5pm, with children’s activities, culturally diverse finger foods and a free sausage sizzle. Cultural dances will start at 5.30pm, followed by an acoustic performance by Chris Whitchurch, and then the free screening of family friendly movie Vivo from 7pm.

Local Laws review

Have your say on the Local Laws that govern a wide range of activities across the region, from abandoned vehicles to what can go in your wheelie bin.

Council has proposed amendments to 12 of its Local Laws and introduce a new Local Law specifically on waste management. You can review the changes on the Have Your Say section of Council’s website, or in person at the Spence Street Customer Service Centre or Cairns Libraries branches. Consultation closes at 4pm on Wednesday 13 September.

Improvement works

English St, Manunda: Kerb and channel renewal, water main renewal, and pavement rehabilitation between Hoare St and Dollisson St. Property access disruptions, lane closures and traffic control in place.

Shane Marshall (left), Steve Lippingwell and Rose Marshall at a no youth detention facility petition stand at Piccones IGA Edmonton supermarket. Picture: Supplied.

Hospital ED under strain

People urged to seek help at GPs, pharmacies

l CAIRNS NORTH

| Nick Dalton

PEOPLE are being asked to seek treatment for minor illnesses and injuries at medical practices and pharmacies as Cairns Hospital is being slammed with hundreds of patients.

Up to 1748 people sought help at the hospital’s emergency department (ED) between Thursday, August 3 and Sunday, August 13. On Sunday, August 13, 269 people required help.

Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service chief executive Leena Singh said the hospital was experiencing high numbers of patients with viral infections such as influenza and also accident-related trauma requiring surgery.

“We have had a constant stream of people arriving at the emergency department and presenting with injuries and illnesses, alongside a significant number of patients brought in via Queensland Ambulance Service,” she said.

“Cairns Hospital has treated more cases of serious injury in the past 30 days, with 261 injury-related emergency surgeries in the past 30 days compared

to 204 injury related emergency surgeries for the same time last year.

“The flu is spreading in our community. Our region has had 128 hospitalisations for influenza since July 1.

“Your best protection is to get vaccinated for the flu. It’s free until August 31”.

“Our triage system means that our patients are prioritised for care to ensure those with the highest need are seen first.

“We would ask anyone with a non-urgent health issue, such as earaches, sprains, and minor aches and pains to please reconsider attending our emergency departments.

“You won’t be turned away from an emergency department, but those in greater need of emergency treatment will al-

ways be prioritised, and people with less urgent need will face a lengthy wait.

“It is still not too late to get a flu vaccination. We encourage everyone to continue to practice good hand hygiene and to wear a mask if you are feeling unwell to avoid transmitting the many viruses circulating at the moment.”

Ms Singh stressed the importance of people facing serious illness or a life-threatening situation to come to the emergency department.

Alternative care options include contacting GPs, pharmacies, telehealth and other primary health care providers for non-urgent health issues. For non-urgent health issues:

• If you’re not sure if your medical condition is an emergency, call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84). Registered nurses are available 24 hours a day. They will advise you on what to do and if you need to go to a GP, pharmacy or emergency department.

• In an emergency, call triple zero (000) and ask for an ambulance

• For non-urgent care please consider Telehealth: Search online for Telehealth GPs. Some offer bulk billing. Telehealth GPs can provide consultations, prescriptions and medical certificates remotely.

Deadly Women graduates

l CAIRNS CBD

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

A CAIRNS woman and five Kuranda women are part of the latest cohort to graduate from the Indigenous women’s leadership program, Deadly Women, with national accreditations and the desire to inspire young girls to take the leap into leadership and entrepreneurship.

The cohort of 17 women from across the Far North graduated last Friday with a cert 1 in workplace skills

and certificate 1 in tourism (Australian Indigenous culture).

The 10-day free program by the Reef and Rainforest Research Centre (RRRC) and Indigenous training not-for-profit INLOC, provides women with leadership skills, builds their confidence and allows them to meet other inspiring women.

Kuranda resident and graduate Sandra Scott said she would recommend the program to all women.

“It’s very exciting for me to be here because I was in the

pilot group and had such a good time and encouraged so many girls in Kuranda to do it, and I came back for a second time,” she said.

“This program is extremely important. Women get to build different connections. We tend to be very shy people, so it brings us out of our comfort zone, and it instills a lot of confidence in the ladies.

“I think the highlights were learning stories, creating connections and being with strong women and becoming even stronger."

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Health service CEO Leena Singh.

Deadly Women graduates (from left) Peta Oui, Sandra Williams, Reeanne Saylor, Sheannah Williams, and Georgina Hobbler. Picture: Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

University’s dental clinic urgently needs dentists to supervise Talented lawyers honoured

l CAIRNS

THREE lawyers in Cairns have received Queensland Law Society’s 2023 excellence in law awards.

Legal Aid Queensland’s senior principal lawyer Tricia Price won the Agnes McWhinney Award. Named after Queensland’s first admitted female solicitor, this award recognises a female lawyer who has forged new pathways for themselves, their peers and/or those that they serve through a commitment to excellence, equity, professionalism, and service to the community.

Born in Tasmania, Ms Price was admitted to practice in 1992 in Victoria. She later moved to Legal Aid Queensland in 1997 in the position of senior solicitor.

Bianca Stafford of Maurice Blackburn Lawyers was honoured as regional practitioner of the year – recognising a practitioner outside of southeast Queensland who exhibits an outstanding commitment to their local profession and community.

Maurice Blackburn Lawyers senior associate Arabella Kullack was named the emerging leader for 2023. The award encourages and supports emerging lawyers on their journey in the field of law, by recognising a high-performing practitioner with outstanding leadership attributes.

l SMITHFIELD

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

A COHORT of 159 third and fourthyear James Cook University dentistry students are struggling to complete their practical experience due to a shortage of supervisors.

The clinic’s director is calling on experienced dentists across the region to come on board and support the next generation of professionals.

Treating over 76,000 patients across its Cairns and Townsville clinics since opening in 2011, the JCU dental clinic has become essential for Far North Queenslanders and the beating heart of the service are its students.

Since COVID, there has been a decrease in supervisors, preventing students from getting practical experience and leading to patients, some who have travelled from as far as Cape York, having their appointments postponed.

Clinic director and professor in prosthodontics and operative dentistry John Abbott said the clinic urgently needed more supervisors to ensure the best experience for patients and students.

“We need dentists who we can rely on a weekly basis for a three-hour session. If we don’t have supervisors, the students don’t get the experience,

and we have to juggle around with patients. Our last resort is to cancel,” Prof Abbott said.

The JCU clinic requires one supervisor for a group of eight students to run a three-hour session, the dentists can choose how many sessions a week to run, have experience of at least five years and registrations with AHPRA are required. However, no teaching or supervision skills are needed.

“This is not voluntary work, they will be paid and it’s a very rewarding experience,” Prof Abbott said.

“Many dentists are unsure because they think it’s hard to supervise but we have an induction and a walk through what we do. The first couple of times we shadow the person with someone who works here so they get a feel of the process.”

Current supervisor and dentist with over 40 years of experience Dr Steven Baker said being a supervisor was “very satisfying and it’s a good way to keep learning. I learned something today and I will incorporate it into my own practice”.

Prof Abbott said “our supervisors find this job so enjoyable once they get here,” he said. “It’s a good way to give back, and you’ll realise the students really need and want your guidance, socially, all dentists here now each other, it’s all very collegiate.”

JCU Dental director Prof John Abbott (left) with fourth-year dentistry students Cameron Newcomb, Jordan Sutherland and Charlotte McKinley. Picture: Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

Comfort for sleepers

Backpack beds give privacy and dignity for those on

l CAIRNS REGION

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

A PARTNERSHIP between Rotary Club of Cairns Sunrise and homelessness not-for-profit Wheels of Wellness (WoW) is aiming to supply 3000 backpack beds, a more comfortable alternative for rough sleepers that’s weatherproof and easy to carry around.

As its key project for 2023-25, the Rotary club has committed to address the homelessness crisis with more immediate solutions while social housing stock increases in the coming years, supplying 3000, 2.7kg backpack beds, manufactured by Melbourne charity Swags for Homeless and 20 waterproof and windproof sleeping bags for WoW clients through fundraising events.

Club president Margaret Milutinovic said the shocking statistics meant solutions were needed now.

“The last statistics we took a look at before taking on the project said there were 2300 people sleeping rough in Cairns, and now the latest statistics say that there are 3000 people sleeping rough,” she said.

“We researched into the best solutions, and we found the backpack bed that has won humanitarian awards. We decided we would try to raise enough money so that every homeless person is at least

dry and warm at night. “We are organising a concert from mid to end of November to restore dignity to homeless and funds will go to this project.”

The partnership with WoW allows Rotary to access a discount for the backpack beds for a total of $110 per unit, elevating the fundraising goal to $330,000, meanwhile WoW clients will trial

the products and bring back feedback on what best adapts to the streets.

WoW client Michael Dobbs said the backpack beds would help improve what it was a very tough experience.

“When it rains there are not many places you can go, something like this can make a difference in keeping you dry. Many of

the streets

Local Briefs

l NEPALESE DINNER

ENJOY a night of delicious Nepalese curries, dessert, raffles, music and great company to help change the lives of vulnerable young people in Nepal.

The Friends of Himalayan Children’s fundraising dinner night is at the Freshwater CWA Hall on Saturday, August 26 from 6pm to 9pm. Tickets cost $50 for adults and $20 for under 16 and include a free wine or soft drink upon arrival. Numbers are limited, and can be booked at www.trybooking.com/CJZLY

l POTTERS CLUB

THE Cairns Potters Club is hosting an open day on Saturday and Sunday (August 19 and 20) from 10 am to 4 pm. Club member Paulina Tapia said members of the public were invited to the free event to buy pottery, meet local artists and experience a Raku firing “which is a truly mesmerising experience”. The club is at 28a Grove St, Cairns.

us sleep around the CBD and we get moved many times during the night. Having this option means we can go sleep out of the city and be warm,” he said.

“It’s a better option for women because it gives them more privacy which can help in keeping them safe.”

WoW chief executive Yolonde Entsch, who slept rough recently,

said the initiative would be an immediate and dignified temporary solution.

“To have the backpack bed and have a safe place that’s private and discreet would make a huge difference,” she said.

“This is one solution that we can give to folks sleeping rough, it gives you a level of privacy, dignity and hopefully safety.”

l SLEEPING ROUGH

THE fight to raise funds for the homelessness crisis in Cairns continues with the FNQ community sleepout last Friday raising $35,000 to go towards Vinnies’ homeless support and help line. Twenty-three people attended the sleepout despite the wet weather on August 11.

Wheels of Wellness client Michael Dobbs trials the backpack bed which is being rolled out in Cairns. Picture: Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

Luring back Asian airline

Delegation in talks with Cathay Pacific

l AEROGLEN

| Nick Dalton

A TOP-level trade delegation in Hong Kong this week is trying to convince Cathay Pacific to resume passenger and freight services to Cairns.

The carrier axed flights to Cairns in October 2019 after 25 years in a shock move which cut $100 million in fresh seafood and produce exports each year and $200m in visitor spending.

Led by assistant minister for tourism industry development and Member for Cairns Michael Healy and Cairns Airport boss Richard Barker, together with other key regional business leaders, the delegation aims to meet stakeholders in Hong Kong, including Cathay Pacific.

Mr Healy said the aim was to build relationships with a view to restoring wide-body direct flights between Cairns and Hong Kong, reopening important North Asia markets for Far North Queensland’s premium agricultural and seafood produce.

“We are all very aware of the challenges still impacting the aviation sector as a result of COVID-19, however, we know

this delegation is an important part of a longer-term strategy by business leaders in the region to demonstrate the quality and volume of our produce from Far North Queensland,” he said.

“We know there is demand for our produce and we want to demonstrate to Cathay Pacific our commitment in terms of freight volumes.

“The return of direct services would bring millions of dollars in economic benefit to the region.”

Tourism Tropical North Queensland chief executive Mark Olsen said there was a significant opportunity for growth in the markets from southern China, Hong Kong and Taiwan.

“There is a significant gap with these markets currently contributing just five per cent of Tropical North Queensland’s visitors as momentum grows with our region’s international recovery,” he said.

“In 2019 visitors from southern China, Hong Kong and Taiwan accounted for one in five international visitor nights injecting more than $200 million a year into our regional economy.”

The delegation also includes Advance Cairns chief executive Jacinta Reddan, who moved to the region late last year from Hong Kong, Cairns Regional Trade Distribution Centre managing director Barbara Ford and Mr Olsen.

Ms Reddan said “our geographic proximity to key markets in North Asia gives us a distinct advantage, with the long-term potential to make our fresh premium food and seafood products available to the fastgrowing Asia consumer market”.

“These meetings are an important part of our broader engagement strategy, and I am delighted I can contribute to this dialogue, drawing on my years spent in the region,” she said.

Ride for grieving parents

l GORDONVALE

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

THE 2023 Alive Pharmacy Ride for Isabel has set a $30,000 fundraising target to go towards a room in Cairns Hospital exclusively for families experiencing pregnancy loss to create a comforting space where parents can grief.

On August 27, the event in partnership with Far North Queensland Hospital

Foundation (FNQHF) and Alive Pharmacy Warehouse aims to fundraise $30,000 for a dedicated space where parents who have just experienced the loss of their newborn can go to rest and grief.

The amateur cycling ride honouring Mulgrave MP Curtis Pitt’s daughter Isabel, who was stillborn at 41 weeks, has a 50km and 100km format, departing from Gordonvale, down to Aloomba and culminating in Gordonvale. The event also

aims to raise awareness on stillbirth and neonatal death.

Mt Sheridan resident Jayne Steinborner has been a rider and volunteer at the Ride for Isabel for seven years, after losing two babies, Matthew at 21 weeks and Talia at 27 weeks. She is moved by this year’s goal.

“This ride was the first I did as a cyclist and it was the start of my healing process, so it’s significant for me,” she said.

To register for the Ride for Isabel, visit https://bit.ly/449Muhh

A wide body Cathay Pacific A330 jet that used to fly to Cairns.

Cairns Hospital midwifery and nursing director Mary McGuiness (left) , FNQHF fundraising and marketing manager Glenys Duncombe, rider Jayne Steinborner and Alive Pharmacy Warehouse managing director Georgina Twomey. Picture: Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

Aussies are being screwed by all

PERHAPS some thought should be given to the people who are being forced to live in their cars or homeless due to several rate increases by the banks.

The main banks have issued statements that they have made billions of dollars in profits.

And giving their chief executives huge bonuses, this on the back of people having to pay higher rents, higher mortgages and higher food prices.

Insurance rates are almost robbery. Mining companies and fuel companies are also making huge profits.

Perhaps we can still blame the war in Ukraine, although I think not.

The Australian public need to wake up. We are being screwed.

On a local matter the new cycleway between Cairns and Edmonton. How much did this debacle cost?

How many homes could have been built with the money wasted on this project.

Get motivated Australia. Wake up.

Very demoralised.

Alan

Manac, Edmonton

60-day scripts are diabolical

THE Pharmacy Guild is calling on the Albanese Government to sit down, properly consult and commit to an early start date for an eighth Community Pharmacy Agreement (8CPA) over the next three weeks, before the Senate returns on September 4 to consider further disallowance motions.

Community pharmacists want

cheaper medicine for all patients, while also preventing further negative impacts on patients, aged care residents and pharmacies, as a result of unintended consequences from 60-days dispensing.

Major health groups representing patients, including the Australian Patients Association, Pain Australia and Better Access Australia, called for the policy be delayed.

More time is needed to ensure unintended consequences didn’t negatively impact patients and pharmacies.

All pharmacists want cheaper medicine for their patients and we are ready, willing and able to sit down with the government and make sensible adjustments to the policy so patients, aged care residents and pharmacists aren’t negatively impacted.

We want the government to hear our concerns, properly consult with us, and commit to an early start date for an eighth Community Pharmacy Agreement, before the Senate considers further potential motions when they return on September 4.

A nationwide survey of 1000 community pharmacies, conducted by the Pharmacy Guild in the past week, shows almost one in four (23 per cent) have reduced opening hours and more than half (54 per cent) have increased fees for services. 250 pharmacy workers have also been made redundant.

Professor Trent Twomey, Pharmacy Guild president

Pharmacies are in crisis situation

I WOULD support the Coalition’s

Local join our online debate be a

Last week we asked the question: What do you think about Singapore Airlines increasing seat and freight capacity into Cairns? Here are some of your comments.

Way to go Cairns Airport. A great team behind the scenes doing great work to promote the Far North.

Larry, Facebook

So happy to see Singapore Airlines launching their new aircraft into Cairns. I have always experienced great service and friendliness on their flights.

Beatrice, Facebook

THIS WEEK’S

QUESTION

Do you think a youth jail should be built at Edmonton?

@cairnslocalnews

disallowance motion (now delayed) on the government’s 60-day dispensing policy, fearing the changes will destroy communities and create a pharmaceutical “big two”.

The proposed changes set for September 1 will allow patients to buy 60 days’ worth of medication with one script – effectively halving the

Just need Cairns Airport and government agencies to lift their game now to appropriate standards and we’re on to a winner.

Michael, Facebook

I love it. I hope Cathay Pacific comes back too.

Jack, Facebook

income of the chemist, and allowing larger businesses with a stronger buying power to out compete smaller community operations.

I immediately and urgently raised the alarm over the proposal when contacted by dozens of pharmacists in my electorate in April, stating smaller pharmacies feared medica-

So why can’t Qatar get approval for more flights into Australia?

The minister responsible won’t say. Lobbying from Qantas I believe.

Andrew, Facebook

Not only does it mean more seats but cargo capacity now at 45 tonnes a week. The current Boeing 737 has no room for freight. John, Manoora

Great to see more seat capacity, but no daily service. Maybe other airlines can fill the three days SIA not flying in. Also if luggage is not put on in Singapore could wait up to 24 hours or more as it happened to us.

Vick Kandiah, Facebook

tion shortages would lead to a “drugs tug-of-war.” The big two in the industry are forced to reduce their prices to meet what village pharmacies prices are offering, however if we don’t have the village pharmacies then nobody is forcing them to reduce their prices.

Bob Katter, Member for Kennedy

Today is the national day of action against youth bullying

WHETHER you are a parent, teacher, student or member of the broader community, everyone has a role to play in preventing the bullying of children and young people.

I urge everyone to think about how we can develop stronger connections within our communities to foster positive, help-seeking behaviour, and stop bullying behaviour in its tracks.

Connecting children to help through yourtown’s free Kids Helpline @ School program is an excellent way that primary-aged

children can build strong social skills to stop bullying behaviour, and support those experiencing bullying.

The program is supported by

the BUPA Foundation and delivered by qualified Kids Helpline counsellors via video link to school classrooms and is free to all primary school students across Australia.

Teachers can book a free session through schools.kidshelpline.com.au

In 2022, one in 10 Kids Helpline @ School sessions delivered by counsellors to primary schools focused on bullying or cyberbullying, with a total 109 sessions being held on bullying (64 sessions) and cyber bulling (45 sessions).

In addition to Kids Helpline@ School, bullying was in the top 10 concerns for young people in 2022 connecting with Kids Helpline counsellors with 1 in every 23 counselling responses.

At Kids Helpline we talk to young people every day about not being a bystander when they witness bullying but being an upstander instead.

Some recommended strategies for parents to talk to their children about include: -

• Show you disapprove, e.g, frowning at a mean joke,

shake your head to show you don’t think that it’s right

• Interrupt the bullying by talking to the person being bullied, e.g, “Hey Jack, there you are.”

• Give the person being bullied an excuse to leave the situation. e.g, “The teacher is looking for you” or, “Hey, can you come help me with something for a minute?”

When a young person reaches out to a trusted adult to tell them they are being bullied, they should be heard and taken seriously.

Parents play a critical role in bullying prevention by role modelling positive behaviours and also providing the space for their children to connect and talk openly about this issue.

Kids Helpline is specifically for children and young people aged five to 25 years. www. kidshelpline.com.au or free call 1800 55 1800. The national day of action against bullying and violence is today.

Tracy Adams is the chief executive of yourtown

Gazza’s Gossip

Douglas FM in tune with locals

PORT DOUGLAS

IT was back in November of last year when I reported on the first transmissions of a new radio station for the Douglas Shire, Douglas FM.

Ten months on and the station seems to be firmly locked on locals’ dial, with a mixture of programming provided from a newly established team of presenters.

Yours truly is now covering the weekday breakfast slot from 6-9am weekdays, broadcasting veteran Paul Makin presents his magazine-style show three mornings a week and local ladies ‘Rita and Jilly’ (Rita Merrick and Jillian Hawkes) provide a cheeky selection of fun and music on the remaining mornings.

The Jake and Banners Sports Show (Jake Black and Adrian Bannerman), features

every Saturday morning, showcasing local sports clubs and events in the Douglas Shire, while Steve Barrett interviews people of interest every Wednesday.

One newcomer to the station is David Starlyte with a show totally suited to his time slot of Sunday arvo. His ‘Soul Talk’ show certainly helps to ease away any stresses from the previous week.

Another new sound to the Douglas airwaves is Michael Joseph on Wednesday afternoons. His show is enjoyed by many locals with his vast local knowledge and experience in topics such as yoga, meditation and massage.

Local business sponsorship is helping to fund the station, plus some grants that have assisted in the purchase of equipment.

Douglas FM is currently in the process of purchasing outside broadcast equipment, which will enable the station to get out and

about in the future. Part of this is being funded by a Tin Shed Community Grant, which recently donated $4000.

Another $3700 is required, at this stage, for this project, so the station management would be keen to talk to any organisations that may be able to assist with a donation or grant.

From a listener point of view, basically all you need to do is adjust your dial to 101.5FM or listen online via Tune In or My Tuner. The station covers local events, news, sport and other community information plus a varied selection of music.

I’m off to pick next week’s music list, so for now it’s Gazza signing out.

Send your stories to gazza@cairnslocalnews.com.au

Family matters in Port

l PORT DOUGLAS

VISITOR numbers in the Douglas Shire have continued to be steady in recent weeks and in fact Port Douglas, over the last few days, seems to have been extremely busy, even mid-week, with restaurants and bars full up on some occasions. Overseas guests have been enjoying this idyllic part of the world again, notably from different parts of Europe.

One such example was Arlene who was visiting from Holland with her husband Eric.

Arlene, who is originally from Scotland, had a number of reasons to be in Port Douglas. Not only did she catch up with family, who already live here, but she also met mum Ellen, who had travelled from Scotland. Just to add to the celebrations, Arlene was also in town to celebrate her 60th birthday.

From my observations, all concerned had a fabulous time.

l

Program director Paul Makin and breakfast jock Gary ‘Gazza’ McIlroy received a Tin Shed community grant.

Thursday arvo with Michael Joseph.

Arlene and Eric visiting Port Douglas from Holland.

Weekly interviews with Steve Barrett.

Good sports Jake and Banners on Saturday morning. Chillin’ with David Starlyte’s soul talk Sunday.

The Rita and Jilly show is always good for a laugh.

Mum Ellen from bonnie Scotland.

TimeOut

New Indigenous show Stunning art

and music

displays on Cairns Esplanade in

October

l CAIRNS ESPLANADE

| Nick Dalton

DETAILS of a new Indigenous arts, cultural and music festival have emerged.

Shine On Gimuy (Cairns) – first revealed by Cairns Local News in April – is a 10-day event led by Indigenous creative and cultural guides who will bring a stunning art display to the Cairns waterfront on October 5-15.

Some of the highlights are:

The Gimuy Art Story Walk (including installations of shields and swords, fever of stingrays, saltwater, Blaktivation, country ceremony opening ceremony and The Blak Markets).

Salt House will host music makers live music performances from some of Australia’s best known First Nations talent and the ‘Deep Wisdom’ talk series featuring cultural knowledge holders who will explore a range of topics including sea migration, story of origin/creation, land, sea and sky stories, songlines across country, fire management, and First Nations inventors.

Shine On Gimuy creative director Rhoda Roberts said the journey of immersion, exploration and connection to the world’s oldest culture would be a multi-artform event illuminating the streets with light shows, soundscapes, art installations, programmed talks and music performances that capture 60,000 years of history, science, tradition and stories untold.

“The Yidindji of Cairns host

‘Shine on Gimuy,’ a new festival that is the illumination of ideas, knowledge, and country, staged on the Cairns Esplanade, highlighting the magnificent tree canopies with artworks by celebrated local artists Paul Bong and Michelle Yeatman leading to the events space on Cairns Waterfront where music, dance, stories reflect the philosophy of land, waterways and sky country,” she said.

Arts Minister Leeanne Enoch said the inaugural festival was

“an exciting addition to Queensland’s cultural calendar that will strengthen the region’s reputation as a destination for exceptional live music and visual arts events.”

“The Queensland Government is proud to invest in the Shine on Gimuy Festival with support of more than $460,000 over three years through Arts Queensland’s Strategic Partnerships Fund, and $80,000 from the First Nations Commissioning Fund for the event’s open-

ing ceremony. We are also supporting arts sector employment and capacity building through the festival with an investment of $125,000 over two years enabling two industry placements that will grow marketing and partnerships expertise and production coordination.”

Shine On Productions producers Merryn Hughes and Julie Brooks said the festival would create “a new opportunity to build sustainable economic development in Tropical

DJ Moose to rock Amateurs

ONE of Cairns’ hottest and most sought-after musicians, DJ Moose, is usually found at the city’s nightclubs, igniting the dance floor with his signature swagger and mix of music.

On September 8 and 9 though he’ll be on the decks spinning non-stop beats all day playing the new Vodka Cruiser Party Pavilion at the Cairns Amateurs Carnival’s Sapphire Jubilee race meeting.

Tipped to be popular with the next generation of racegoers, the new party Pavilion offers views of the home straight, indoor, air-conditioned surrounds, cool tunes and epic vibes from resident DJ Moose.

North Queensland”, including work for 70 artists and art workers.

Deputy Mayor Cr Terry James said the artworks, elevated by the evocative soundscapes, would feature the language, stories, chants, and songs that have culminated from the rich Indigenous oral history of the region, offering a unique and poignant experience of the First Nations people of Gimuy/Cairns.”

Visit: www.shineonproductions.au/gimuy

British-born, Cairns-grown DJ Moose, aka Reuben Grant, exploded onto the Australian music scene just four years ago, including appearing at The Grass is Greener Festival last year alongside the hottest names in the music industry.

He specialises in the delivery of house music and draws influence from his Caribbean heritage and his spiritual connection to Ibiza.

Visit www.cairnsamateurs.org.au

DJ Moose (aka Reuben Grant)

An artist’s impression of the ‘Fever of Stingrays” on the Cairns Esplanade to be produced by young Indigenous designers.

Talented duo in theatre

Emerging professionals play roles in JUTE’s Higher Faster Louder

l CAIRNS CBD | Gail Sedorkin

REMEMBER the names Esther Elder and Adria Cunningham. While each aspires to establish a theatre career, individually their goals and passions differ.

Now beneath the wings of JUTE Theatre Company, the two emerging theatre professionals are gaining valuable experience aboard the team of its latest production, ‘Higher Faster Louder’ by Marilyn MarshBooth.

Recognising JUTE and the chance they’ve been given to work with an award-winning team, including the production’s highly respected director Matt Scholten, the pair is excited for the time ahead culminating in a world premiere season of Higher Faster Louder opening at Bulmba-ja Theatre on Friday, August 25.

An alumnus of JUTE’s Write Sparks program for emerging playwrights, Higher Faster Louder is Ms Marsh-Booth’s first play, born from her own remarkable story as one of the world’s first female commercial pilots during the transformative era of women’s liberation in the 1960s.

JUTE’s artistic director and CEO Suellen Maunder, who

also happens to play the mature version of Ms Marsh-Booth in the forthcoming production, said Higher Faster Louder challenged the status quo and persistent gender barriers that lingered

in today’s modern world.

“It is fast and furiously funny while delivering a strong message that true change comes from courage and perseverance, embracing the unknown, and

pushing the boundaries of possibility,” she said. It is this message that is powering the young duo forward in their new pivotal roles in the crew of Higher Faster Louder.

Hungry to apply her learning after completing a Bachelor of Theatre degree, Rockhamptonbased Esther Elder jumped at the chance to extend her skills by completing a series of JUTE’s Build Back Better regional training Programs Of Development (PODs) across all theatre disciplines earlier this year.

It was all the confidence she needed and immediately after finishing JUTE’s stage management POD facilitated by Ms Maunder, she secured a stage manager’s role in Darwin and now, JUTE’s Higher Faster Louder in Cairns.

“I feel so privileged to be here at JUTE and be part of this story, learn new skills and hopefully, pass them on,” Ms Elder said.

Joining Ms Elder on Higher Faster Louder is 18-year-old Innisfail-based Adria Cunningham whose dreams of becoming an accomplished actor are being ignited but also broadened as an assistant to director Matt Scholten.

“The team at JUTE truly value emerging artists and the exploration of this new generation,” Ms Cunningham said.

JUTE Theatre Company’s production of Higher Faster Louder runs from Friday, August 25 to Saturday, September 2, 2023. For information and tickets visit https://jute.com.au/hfl/

Cultural show is a sell-out

l YARRABAH

WITHIN days of ticket sales opening, this year’s Yarrabah Music and Cultural Festival on October 7 has sold out.

The annual festival will feature singer, songwriter and actress Jessica Mauboy, Ms Mauboy said she was more than honoured to be headlining Yarrabah Music and Cultural Festival this year for Queensland Music Trails.

“I am looking forward to October and can’t wait to see all the smiling faces in Yarrabah on Gunggandji Country. See you all there,” she said.

Presented by Queensland Music Festival and the Yarrabah Aboriginal Shire Council, the all-ages event combines impressive musical acts, visual arts and flavours with some of Australia’s brightest stars to showcase the incredible talent emerging from the Yarrabah community and beyond.

Singer Jessica Mauboy.

Emerging theatre professionals Esther Elder and Adria Cunningham. Picture: Gaby Thomasz

How The Other Half Loves being produced by Malanda Theatre from tonight

Play has audience laughing

l MALANDA

| Ken Cotterill

HOW The Other Half Loves

by Alan Ayckbourn is about as funny as you can get.

Bordering on a farce, the play takes place simultaneously in the living rooms of the Foster and Phillips families somewhere in middle England.

The main protagonist is Frank Foster, a pompous windbag, who is the manager of an unnamed company.

His posh wife Fiona is so totally bored by know-all Frank that she embarks on an affair with one of Frank’s employees, the rough and ready Bob Phillips.

At the same time Bob’s house-bound wife Theresa is going through domestic crises of her own with an unseen, unruly child and Bob’s unpredictable late-night habits.

To confuse matters further William and Mary Featherstone are invited to the Foster and Phillips homes on alternative nights. William is also an employee of Frank’s but way down the pecking order.

The dinner table scene, which takes place in both houses simultaneously, supposedly over two nights, is about as funny and as clever as you can get in theatre.

It’s a classic scene bordering on lunacy, but so well acted by the entire cast.

From that high point the play takes on an anti-climax as most of the confusion is resolved in

the last act. Howard Smith plays the bumbling, upper-class Frank to perfection, blundering on in a stuffy accent worthy of Boris Johnson as he confuses who is having an affair with whom

while displaying non-existent handyman skills. Deb Bass does a fine job as his wife Fiona, calmly bluffing Frank as to her late-night whereabouts, while at the same time trying to contact

Bob for another liaison.

This is all done without Fiona raising a sweat, let alone an eyebrow.

Kaitlen Adams, as Theresa, brilliantly portrays the ever

frazzled, manic housewife attempting to run a household that is forever disrupted by the evasive Bob and unseen child Benjamin.

As Bob, Tim Wright gives a cracking performance as an unpredictable, untidy and dodgy husband eager to avoid home duties and ever on the lookout for an extra-marital fling.

Jake Skukan, as William Featherstone, embellishes the role with a classic comedy touch combining body language with exasperated facial expressions, especially in the dinner party scene, his confrontation with Bob and his subservient behaviour to boss Frank.

Finally, Jocelyn Goodwin portrays the timid, nervous and ultra shy Mary Featherstone brilliantly.

This is not an easy role to play, but is done seemingly effortlessly by Jocelyn.

Directors Graham Harrington and Penny Scott have done a first-rate job in directing this play.

Comedies are never easy to produce, but in this case the direction accompanied by a strong cast working with a good script has made this an extremely enjoyable production.

Tickets available at malandatheatre.org Opens tonight until August 27.

Cast of How The Other Half Loves Howard Smith, Deb Bass, Jake Skukan, Jocelyn Goodwin, Tim Wright and Kaitlen Adams. Picture: Supplied

Music kings of city’s jungle

Headline act in Cairns Festival program

l CAIRNS CBD

| Gail Sedorkin

FRESH from a tour of the US and Canada, Cairns Festival headline act The Jungle Giants will rock Munro Martin Parklands with their trademark high-energy performance on Saturday, September 2.

Division 6 Councillor Kristy Vallely said it was real coup for Cairns festival-goers to have a home-grown Queensland act of this calibre performing locally.

“Having a headliner like The Jungle Giants in a festival context rounds out the strong music program that features throughout the 10 days of Cairns Festival,” she said.

“I believe people will love them … whether they have heard of them or have just decided to come along and experience that great festival environment at

Munro Martin Parklands.

Sam Hales, vocalist/guitarist/ songwriter/producer fronts The Jungle Giants, which includes lead guitarist Cesira Aitken, bassist Andrew Dooris and drummer Keelan Bijker.

The number one ARIA-charting fourth album Love Signs is the first album Hales wrote, recorded, performed and produced alone.

It follows previous album, Quiet Ferocity, which peaked at number 11 on the ARIA charts and won AIR Awards’ best independent album.

“The band is renowned for delivering an explosive, high-energy live performance, underlined by a pop and joyous vibe, taking the audience on an unforgettable musical roller,” Cr Vallely said

“When a Queensland act is able to move into an international forum, the ripple effect for other

Queensland artists is resounding and great opportunities can come out of it,” she said.

“Cairns has a really developed hunger for music of any genre and the local music scene is very strong.”

The Brisbane foursome has just released two singles in pursuit of their fifth album and, while featuring the expected buoyant melodies and infectious choruses, mark The Jungle Giants as a band that refuses to sit still or have its sound defined by genre.

Cr Vallely said two local acts would also be programmed on the night, further supporting the local music economy. The Munro Martin Parklands venue opens open at 5.30pm and the show begins at 6.30pm. Food vans and a full bar service will be operating. BYO picnic rugs or chairs.

Tickets are available through www. ticketlink.com.au

Andrew Dooris, Cesira Aitken, Sam Hales, and Keelan Bijker are The Jungle Giants. Picture: Supplied

WHAT’S ON

APFELFEST THE GERMAN CLUB

l FRI AUGUST 18, 5:00PM-10:30PM

Apples have played a role in German folklore, traditions and cuisine for centuries. We have a bunch of apple flavours available this week! Festivals are an integral part of German culture, and they often bring communities together. An apple festival can serve as a joyful occasion for people to gather, enjoy music and dance, participate in apple-related activities, and indulge in apple-based delicacies. Free entry!

Book your table with The German Club.

WOMEN SUPPORTING WOMEN COUCH

l SAT AUGUST 19, 9:30AM-11:30AM

Join a group of diverse women (under 55), symbolizing support and unity. A space dedicated to providing support, encouragement, and empowerment to women affected by cancer. Whether you are a survivor, currently undergoing treatment, or supporting a loved one, this event is for you.

RSVP by phone (07) 4032 0820 or email amanda@couchwellness.com.au

HOT & HEAVY DANCE WORKSHOPS TANKS ARTS CENTRE

l SAT AUGUST 18-19

This is a high energy dance workshop that takes participants through the basics of improvisation, teaches some fun uplifting dance routines from the upcoming Ironing Maidens live show, Hot & Heavy, presented as part of the Cairns Festival.

– Friday 18th August: 5pm to 7pm

– Saturday 19th August: 9.30am to 11.30am

Cost: $15.00

Tickets via Humanitix.

ROWLY ELLIS BEACH BAR & GRILL

l SAT AUGUST 19, 2:00PM-5:00PM

Spend your Saturday arvo at Ellis Beach with the Blues Brothers Tribute with Rowly.

Live Music: 2pm – 5pm

What else is on this Saturday?

– FREE Pancakes for the Kids – From 7am to 11.30am

– $18 Buckets of Fresh Prawns – From 12pm to 4pm Free Entry!

FRIDAY

Bobby Maguire – Dunwoodys Hotel, 4:00pm

MUSIC OF THE NIGHT CPAC

l SAT AUGUST 19, 2:00PM-5:00PM

From sellout shows in 2022, Music of the Night, Australia’s Premier Tribute to Andrew Lloyd Webber is coming to Cairns. All the hits we’ve come to know and Love from Phantom of the Opera, Les Miserables, Jesus Christ Superstar, Joseph and His Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat, Evita, Cats, Miss Saigon, Mary Poppins, Sound of Music and many more!

Book your tickets through ticketlink.

Sax Man – Lunico Restaurant Trinity Beach, 4:30pm

Nikki Doll – Cairns Colonial Club, 4:30pm

Barbary Coasters – Cairns Cruising Yacht Squadron, 5:00pm

Victoria Boxall – Ten 06, 5:30pm

Satya Matteo – Ellis Beach Bar & Grill, 5:30pm

Daryl Roberts – Bingil Bay Café, 6:00pm

Two Dogs – Mayhem at Machans, 6:00pm

Whiskey Boat – O’Donnell’s Palm Cove, 6:00pm

Christina Ukulele – The Benson Hotel, 6:30pm

Janna Mercedes – Anthill Hotel Mareeba, 8:00pm

Big Noise – Bar36 at the Reef Hotel Casino, 9:00pm

SATURDAY

Mitch King – Black Mountain, 12:00pm

Music of the Night – CPAC, 2:00pm

Thomas Lowth – Surf Club Palm Cove, 2:00pm

Rowly – Ellis Beach Bar & Grill, 2:00pm

Daryl Roberts – The Garage Bar & Brewhouse, 5:00pm

Janna Mercedes – Crown Hotel Cairns, 5:30pm

Two Dogs – Mission Beach Blues Bar & Café, 6:00pm

Big Jim – Cazaly’s Cairns, 6:15pm

Barbary Coasters – Roo Bar & Grill, 6:30pm

Cluttered Butts – The Secret Jungle Cairns, 6:30pm

Infinity Due – Brothers Leagues Club Cairns, 7:00pm

G Flip – Tanks Arts Centre, 7:15pm

Brass Sweat and Tears – CPAC Studio, 7:30pm

Ash Grunwald – Edge Hill Tavern, 8:00pm

The Joker Pokers- Red Beret Hotel, 8:00pm

Fingerprint – Bar36 the Reef Hotel Casino, 9:00pm

Wild Willy – The Jack, 9:00pm

OPEN DAY CAIRNS POTTERS CLUB

l SAT AUGUST 19 & SUN AUGUST 20

The Cairns Potters Club is hosting an open day on 19th and 20th of August from 10 am to 4 pm. Come along to buy local pottery, meet local artists, and experience clay play with us.

There will also be a Raku firing, where you can watch this totally mesmerising process or perhaps even participate.

Address: 28a Grove St, Cairns

For more info: cairnspottersclub1@gmail.com

SUNDAY

Denim Blues – Barron Falls Hotel Kuranda, 12:00pm

Steve Williams – Mountain View Hotel, 12:00pm

Mitch King – Black Mountain, 12:00pm

Infinity Duo – Ravenshoe Hotel, 1:00pm

Rob Papp – Garradunga Hotel, 1:00pm

Miss Tee – Ellis Beach Bar & Grill, 1:00pm

Brass Sweat and Tears – CPAC Studio, 1:30pm

Twist and Shout – CPAC, 2:00pm

Sunday Sesh – German Club Cairns, 2:00pm

DjGlenW – Dundees at the Aquarium, 2:00pm

Eddie Skiba – Dunwoody’s Hotel, 2:00pm

Wind and Wood – Palm Cove Tavern, 4:00pm

Amber Farnan & Matilda Duncan – Macalisters, 7:00pm

The Dannies – Bar36 at the Reef Hotel Casino, 7:30pm

check with the Venues regarding any cancellations or entry requirements due to COVID-19

Take a minute... Puzzles for you

Solutions

Weekly Horoscopes

This week will be hectic. Someone you care about may not be too pleased with you. You may be looking through rose-coloured glasses. Do your own thing without drawing attention to it.

Investments will not be as they appear this week. Be careful when dealing with investments. Your ability to come up with original ideas will bring recognition from superiors. You will find that social activities will be enjoyable and will promote new connections.

CROSSWORD

Be prepared to take care of the issues at hand. Be prepared to overcome frustrations and obstacles at work. Your ability to see other people’s points of view will allow you to come to reasonable agreements. Think twice before you agree to take on any new projects.

Romantic opportunities will be plentiful if you go out with friends.

Don’t let children hold you back from doing things you enjoy. You can make money if you pursue your own business. Secret affairs will come back to haunt you.

Don’t get intimately involved with a coworker. A romantic dinner, followed by a quiet evening with the one who is enticing you, should be most satisfying. Your charm will attract members of the opposite sex. Minor health problems may lower your vitality.

Relatives may be less than easy to deal with. You may jump from the frying pan into the fire if you make a move this week. You can get your point across and make valuable connections. Look out for yourself this week.

ACROSS

Sudden changes regarding friendships are likely to occur if you have tried to change others. Lovers will be demanding. You are best to sign your partner up for activities that will be tiring. Friends from your past may come back into your life. You have your own family to consider as well.

Be cautious of making any residential changes this week. Dig deep to find out how costly a new venture will be before you sign on the dotted line. This will not be the best day for communication or travel. You will feel so much better about yourself if you can control your addictions.

Avoid boredom by being creative in your endeavours. You can set your goals and make a beeline for your target. You’re in a high cycle for romance. Get them to pitch in, if you need help.

If you’re looking to do something worthwhile, consider volunteer work. Talk to those in a position of power about your intentions. You should put your efforts into creative projects. Sudden changes could result in estrangements.

7. the act of damaging something deliberately so that it does not work (8)

9. widely recognized and well-established (6)

10. how large or small something or someone is (4)

11. having the expectation of immediate and complete obedience (10)

12. a type of highly seasoned sausage, originally from Italy (6)

You will have to help family members sort out unfortunate difficulties. The home environment will be unpredictable this week. You can expect opposition at work. Don’t let your competition in on incriminating information. Take care of your own responsibilities before you help others.

You’d be wise to control your spending, so your debts don’t get out of hand. Look into career choices and courses being offered. You need to enjoy the company of those who enjoy the same pastimes. People trying to entice you to join in will be less than trustworthy.

14. a device for turning a spit on which meat is roasted (8)

15. the capital city of Austria (6)

16. a geometric knitting pattern of varicolored diamonds (6)

19. to talk rapidly and somewhat incoherently (8)

21. sudden and unexpected (6)

23. a club at an American college or university (10)

24. walk or run with a long bounding stride (4)

25. lightweight cotton cloth in a plain weave (6)

26. a person sent as a diplomatic representative on a special mission (8)

DOWN

1. a Mexican dish of meat and vegetables cut into strips, cooked, and wrapped inside a tortilla (6)

2. by no amount; not at all (4)

3. an organized course of action to achieve a goal (8)

4. a device for varying the brightness of an electric light (6)

5. a person supposed to be able to foresee the future (10)

6. a headache that can cause severe throbbing pain or a pulsing sensation (8)

8. an error in printing or writing (6)

13. to a satisfactory or acceptable extent (10)

15. having the characteristics of vapor (8)

17. blended in advance of being sold (5-3)

18. a stoat, especially when in its white winter coat (6)

20. causing one to need rest or sleep; fatiguing (6)

22. art movement of the late 1950s and ‘60s based on commercial and popular culture (3,3)

24. a smaller amount of; not as much (4)

Hair and Beauty

TAFE Queensland senior hairdressing teacher offers advice to men about daily routine

Tips for shaving and skincare

TAFE Queensland senior hairdressing and barbering teacher

Trish Nielsen has some easy tips for men to master their shave and nail well-groomed facial hair.

“In between barbering appointments, men need to groom and maintain their facial hair regularly to keep their cleanshaven, beard or moustache game in top shape,” she said.

“To avoid damaging your skin, it’s essential to shave properly.

“Use hot water and apply a non-foaming shaving cream using a shaving brush.

“It’s also important that you invest in a quality blade or razor. Gently pull your skin taut and shave with the grain of your hair.

“Lightly dab your skin dry with a soft towel and finish with a moisturiser or post-shave balm.

“When it comes to trimming, the first step is to comb or brush your facial hair. An electric trimmer can help you create a quick, even length all over or you can use a pair of beard or moustache

scissors. For men who have a full beard, make sure you use a men’s facial scrub once a week. This routine will remove itchy, dead skin cells and help prevent ingrown hairs.

“I also recommend that you use a quality beard oil when your hair starts to feel dry and stiff.

“Massage the oil into your facial hair and it will act as a conditioner. Not only will the oil make your beard softer, but it will leave it smelling amazing.

“Finally, men need to apply sunscreen. Facial hair is no substitute for a quality SPF product to protect your face from sun damage.

“It’s important to apply sunscreen regardless of whether you are spending the entire or just part of your day outdoors.”

The Cairns campus includes a modern, purpose-built salon to give hairdressing students an opportunity to put theory into practice and gain practical skills in a real-world environment. The fully-operational salons are set up like a real life hairdressing salon with reception desks, hair washing basins, work stations, mirrors and trolleys.

TAFE Queensland senior hairdressing and barbering teacher Trish Nielsen advises a male student on the best skincare products for his skin.

New housing supply ideas

LJ Hooker Group draws up a list of six ways to address the rental market crisis

l RENTAL MARKET

| Nick Dalton

ONE of Australia’s leading real estate brands has drawn up six possible solutions to increasing Australia’s housing supply.

LJ Hooker Group’s head of research Mathew Tiller said new thinking was needed with the rental market currently impacted by an unhealthy imbalance between demand and supply post-pandemic.

“The number of rental homes in Australia increased from 2.2 million in 2011 to 2.8 million in 2021 – that’s 24 per cent growth in ten years,” he said.

“This shift can be attributed to changing economic conditions, demographic shifts, population changes and housing affordability,” Mr Tiller said.

He said since the beginning of 2020, rental demand in Australia had experienced significant fluctuations, influenced primarily by two factors: overseas migration and changing household dynamics.

“To address rental market challenges, solutions should focus on housing supply including maximising the utilisation of existing homes and constructing quality built new ones of the

right size in targeted areas,” he said. “Unfortunately, the outlook for new housing is not positive with the number of new dwellings being approved continuing to decline.”

The six strategies for increasing much-needed supply include:

1. Governments can directly fund or build homes, acting as developers or financing

private developers to build new homes.

2. Increasing the supply of social, community and affordable housing is required particularly in the less affordable

inner-city areas and rapidly growing regional markets.

3. Planning and development incentives should align new housing supply with population growth, prioritising locations with tight labour markets and low rental vacancies.

4. Incentivising long-term leases to provide security and stability for tenants. Landlords could be encouraged to offer multi-year leases, similar to commercial properties, spanning three, five, seven or 10 years. Special clauses, such as a make-good clause, could be added allowing tenants to change the interior as long as the property was returned to its original condition on the expiry of the lease.

5. Increase build-to-rent incentives for large-scale builders and institutions to construct rental accommodations specifically to rent.

6. Balancing short-term accommodation with the need for permanent long-term housing in regional ‘tourism’ centres.

There are few high rise apartments in Cairns, such as in Wharf St, which are available to rent. Inset: LJ Hooker’s head of research Mathew Tiller.

Motoring

Cairns buyers snapping up electric vehicles at fast rate

l ELECTRIC VEHICLES

| Nick Dalton CAIRNS residents are buying electric vehicles (EVs) faster than any other regional area in Queensland, with registrations surging more than 500 per cent in the past two years.

New figures released in the Australian Automobile Association’s (AAA) EV Index reveal EV registrations in Cairns grew from 45 in January 2021 to 282 in January 2023, or up by 626 per

cent while in Townsville registrations grew from 44 to 266 over the same period (505 per cent).

RACQ’s head of public policy Dr Michael Kane said there were a number of factors driving the uptake.

“Over the past 12 months there’s been an influx of new electric vehicle models on the Australian market, driving down prices through competition,” he said.

“More recently we’ve seen State Government rebates increased for new EV purchases

and in January 2023 the Federal Government brought in Fringe Benefit Tax exemptions on novated leasing for EVs.

“These things will continue to make EVs more affordable for motorists who want to drive cleaner and safer cars.”

Toowoomba came in third place with an additional 193 EVs over the same two-year period, followed by the Scenic Rim (80), Fraser Coast (79), Bundaberg (57), Mackay (55) and Rockhampton (54).

Dr Kane said while these num-

bers were a good start, range anxiety is still a huge issue holding regional Queenslanders back from making the leap to electric.

“Ensuring no Queenslander is left behind in the transition to more sustainable transport is crucial and that means investing in charging infrastructure,” he said.

“As well as building a new charging station at Carseldine in Brisbane, RACQ is co-funding seven new fast charging sites in Cairns, Mackay, Gladstone, Bundaberg, Hervey Bay, Toowoomba and Mitchell with the

Queensland Government.

“The Queensland Government co-funding program is set to see 46 charging sites across more than 30 mostly regional locations up and running by the end of 2024.”

RACQ already sponsors around 50 government-owned charging stations across Queensland and will continue to work closely with the State Government to ensure all motorists have access to safe, secure and sustainable transport.

According to the Cairns Re-

gional Councils’s 2023 State of the Environment Report there were 178 electric vehicles (EVs) registered in the region in 2021/22.

“EVs have been doubling in popularity every year since 2018/19,” the report said.

“Though ownership is very low compared to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles, the number of electric vehicles in the region has more than doubled, year on year since 2018/19 to its current high of 178,” it said.

BMW’s EV range, including the IX, is appealing to early adopters of new technology in Cairns.

The Volvo XC40 Recharge is a popular EV for the Swedish brand.

The Volkswagen ID.4 SUV is the marque’s first EV.

Gone in less than 60 minutes

l NEW CAR LAUNCH

| Nick Dalton

THE first allocation of Nissan’s Z Nismo has sold out, with online orders opening for less than an hour as Z fans rushed to secure their vehicle.

Strictly limited to 100 vehicles in its first delivery run, the new Z flagship was first offered to those already awaiting delivery of a Z or Z Proto, with those customers given the opportunity to change their order. The 50 remaining vehicles were then able to be reserved at Nissan.com.au from 11am on August 10.

Nissan Australia managing director Adam Paterson said it took just 11 minutes for the first 22 vehicles to be reserved, and by 11.30am 40 Z Nismos had been allocated. The remaining

10 vehicles in this delivery run were reserved by 11.53am.

“Customers were able to build their Z Nismo online, personalising their vehicle’s colour by choosing from black diamond metallic, brilliant silver with a super black roof, everest white with a super black roof, or stealth gray with a black roof.

“Customers were then asked to nominate the Nissan dealer they wish to purchase the vehicle from, and place a reservation fee of $1000 to offer to purchase their Z Nismo. Reservation terms and conditions applied.

“Given the strictly limited vehicle numbers, payment of a reservation fee does not guarantee purchase of a vehicle and the fee is fully refundable prior to signing a contract of sale. Reservations were limited to

one per customer, and third party resellers were not eligible.

“It’s the first time a Z vehicle has been able to be specified and reserved online, with the system to work in partnership with Nissan’s dealer network, which will assist in preparing and delivering every vehicle.

“Successful customers will be contacted by their nominated dealer shortly to confirm their purchase of the flagship new vehicle.

“The excitement surrounding the entire Z range has been fantastic, and it just goes to show there’s still a real appetite for performance in Australia.

“The new Z Nismo reaches new performance heights for this incredibly iconic nameplate, and I’m excited for our customers to experience it for themselves.” The drive away price is $101,212.

The first run of 100 Nissan Z Nismo sportscars has been sold out in less than an hour, despite a drive away price of $101,212.

PRIVACY POLICY

Local News Cairns

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HOW DO I CANCEL AN ADVERTISEMENT?

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PUBLIC NOTICES

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

Thursdays, 12pm to 1pm

Cairns Local News delivers to:

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

Grab your FREE copy weekly!

Two bedroom flat to share, fully furnished. $200 a week plus all outgoings. Would prefer mature lady. Phone: 0481 724 841

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Local News Cairns

4pm Wednesday Local News Cairns every week of publication

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FNQ Markets

Friday August 18th

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 August 19th

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

Cairns Potters Club Open Day: 28a Grove St Cairns, 10:00-16:00

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

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, 07:00-12:00

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

Find us on Facebook Cairns Local News cairnslocalnews.com.au

Sunday August 20th

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

Cairns Potters Club Open Day: 28a Grove St Cairns, 10:00-16:00

Kuranda Heritage

Sport Grandad, 98, to the rescue

Nonagenarian pushes dehydrated grandson, 39, over finishing line in wheelchair

l MARATHON RUNNING

| Nick Dalton

A GREAT Pyramid Race competitor has his 98-yearold grandfather to thank for completing the event after he collapsed just 50m from the finishing line.

Dominic Sansom of Cessnock succumbed to the heat and humidity of the day on August 5 moments from the finishing line at Gordonvale.

Despite 12 weeks of solid training at Cessnock in much colder weather, the tropics took its toll on the 39-year-old.

“Fifty metres from the finishing line the body decided to give up,“ he said.

“In hindsight I should have slowed down and maybe walked a bit, conserved my energy,” he said.

Mr Sansom blackedout just before the line following a combination of dehydration and overheating.

As he was sitting in a wheelchair recovering, he suggested to his grandad that he get him over the line.

“I can’t remember it but apparently I asked grandad for help,” Mr Sansom said.

Bill Honeywell of Mission Beach sprang into action and pushed the wheelchair so his grandson finished the event to cheers and applause from spectators.

It was the second time Mr Sansom had competed in the race. He also took part five years ago in a time of 2 hours 17 minutes. In 2023 it was 2hrs 33min.

Mr Honeywell is no stranger to the event.

He has run it 12 times from the age of 67 after he retired until the last when he was 80.

His first time was 2hr 23min, reducing that to 1hr 46min.

“I was first in the novice section the first time and I’ve collected about five to six trophies over the years in the veterans or senior age groups,” Mr Honeywell said.

Mr Sansom said he wasn’t the only one to fall ill, nor was he the last to finish.

The winner was George Murray in a time of 1hr 32m. Meredith Huey was last in 4hr 4m. There were just over 150 runners.

The current record for the 12km race stands at 1hr15m34s set in 2007 by Neil Labinsky, a mountain specialist runner from the Sunshine Coast.

The race gained official organisation and status in 1959 as part of Queensland’s Centenary celebrations and went on to become an annual event that gets marked in the diaries of some of the finest and fittest runners, as a “must”.

For the complete results list, visit the Cairns Athletics Facebook page.

Sport Results

MOSSMAN MEN’S BOWLS

Saturday, August 12. 38

Bowlers for Jackpot Bowls. Col Widdows/Warren McCoist/ Ron Alford d Ray Prain/Michael Sims/Joe Girgenti 20-19; Charlie Toohey/Steve Hudson/ Martin Adams d Graham Hutchinson/Derek Franklin/John Arnold 23-21; David Blain/ Alistair Douglas d Col Johnson/ Bob Carroll 25-19; John Fleming/George Wilmot (Bernie

Wolland)/Tony Brlyack d Eric Smith/Bill Allison/Bernie Savage 22-15; Bill Smith/Andrew Harris/Nev Tesch d Sas/Peter McGrory/David Turnbull; Steve Cue/Bob Lawrie/Keith Bundie d Frank Rigori/Daryl Hoskin/ Brian King 23-11. Winners; David White/Nev Fletcher d Terry Richards/Gary Watts 32-12.

MOSSMAN LADIES’ BOWLS August 10. Out of the hat

draw. Winners; Jan White, Barbara Watts and Denise Highland. R/U; Carmen Bolton and Trish Arnold. Sunday Social Mixed Bowls. August 6. Winners; Mary McGrory, Ian Bailey, Arthur Anderson and Carole Maxted. R/U; Jan White, Peter McGrory and Col Johnson.

GORDONVALE BOWLS

Thursday winners; C. Campbell, A. Petersen, B. Wright. R/U; C. Jarred, M. Bruni, D. Stewart. Saturday pyramid fours. Winners; M. Greenwood, R. Moody, J. Jackson. D.

Stewart. Placing skips. R/U; D. Lawton; 3rd G. Spicer; 4thM. Taylor; 5th Steve Peter Smith. Team raffle winners. D. Gibson, J. Blain.

EDGE HILL BOWLS

Thursday, August 10. Ladies’ bowls. Winners; Joyce Ault, Peter Whitehead. Champion of Club Champion pairs. Winners; Nick Twinning, Lyle Braggins; the pair will play for the Zone 8 finals in Townsville on Friday, August 25. Mixed social bowls. Tuesday, August 8. Winners; Joan Mann, Trish

DeRon and Glen Mann. R/U; Meredith Kennon and Valerie Still. Tuesday night. Winners; Ron Pearce and Peter Whitehead. Wednesday, August 9. Winners; Barry, Steve, and John. R/U: Debbie, Trish, and Glenda. Saturday, August 12. Winners; Lou Pomroy, Barry Bolton, and Peter Whitehead. R/U: Barry Butt, Gai Barrett, and Ian Stafford.

MARLIN COAST BOWLS

Tuesday morning bowls. Winners; no winners. R/U; no winners. Tuesday afternoon

men’s triples. Winners; Peter, Ossie, Andy. R/U; Les, Nev, Frank. Tuesday night bowls. Spider: Allan, Chriss, Graham, Keith, Sisca, Paper. Wednesday mixed bowls. Winners; P. McCarthy, L. Roberts, V. Stills. R/U; V. Rheubens, B. Watson, B. Clarkson. Thursday morning bowls. Winners; no winners. R/U; no winners. Thursday mixed triples. Winners; Gordon, Steve F., John. R/U; Rose, Gary, Robbo. Saturday morning scroungers. Winners; N. Robson. R/U; G. McFarlane.

Dominic Sansom with his grandfather Bill Honeywell relaxing on the Cairns Esplanade after the Great Pyramid Race at Gordonvale. Main picture: Nick Dalton

Bill Honeywell pushes his grandson Dominic Sansom, who had collapsed in the heat, over the Great Pyramid Race finishing line.

Bill Honeywell and Dominic Sansom after the Great Pyramid Race.

Pictures: Kelly Sansom

Interstate rider registrations for Gran Fondo Festival well ahead of last year

Locals urged to get cycling

l CYCLING | Isaac Colman

FAR Northern competitors are being urged to take part in the region’s long-distance road cycling ride - the 2023 Port Douglas Gran Fondo Festival. Only weeks remain between now and the return of the event after being such a hit last year.

Cairns Mayor Bob Manningsaid the ‘big ride’ was “another feather in the cap for Cairns and Tropical North Queensland – an event that attracts cyclists across the country and the world who want to enjoy the experience of riding in a tropical paradise”.

Cr Manning encouraged locals to participate in the event.

“While this event will bring in visitors to our region, it is also very popular with locals, and I would encourage anyone who has a bike to take the opportunity to join this spectacular ride,” he said.

He also emphasised the significance of the event, and the difference of riding the route.

“As locals we often take for granted just how unique and amazing our region is. It’s the perfect chance for locals to ride their own ‘Great Barrier Reef Drive’ and enjoy the scenery without the distraction of driving or traffic.” Connect Sport Australia managing director

Bade Stapleton said Tropical North Queensland residents could get $20 off their entry cost by using the code ‘LOCALS’ when registering.

“The Great Barrier Reef Drive will be closed for half a day on Sunday, September 10 with timed 136km and 100km return Gran Fondo rides from Port Douglas to Palm Cove, a 60km Semi Fondo ride from Port Douglas to Rex Lookout and back and a 48km one-way leisurely Medio Fondo ride from Palm Cove to Port Douglas,” he said.

“We are encouraging families to make a day of it by riding the 48km Medio Fondo together without the pressure of racing for a time.”

Saturday, September 9 marks the beginning of the festival with the Hartley’s to Port 40km mountain bike race. Starting from Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures and finishing on Four Mile Beach in Port Douglas, the scenic ride is a great way to stay active while also admire nature.

The second ride of the day is the Lexus of Cairns Criterium, a 2.2km lap circuit starting and finishing outside the Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina.

The first day of the festival is concluded with the Choo Choos Free Family Ride, where each child participating will receive a free ice cream from Choo

Choos Ice Creamery. Last year, the festival attracted riders to Far North Queensland from all over the country, with this year expecting even more.

“Our interstate riders are already 22 per cent ahead of our total number of riders from interstate last year, and we still have one month to go,” said Mr Stapleton.

Douglas Shire Mayor Michael Kerr said the festival provided a real boost to the region’s economy, through accommodation venues as well as local businesses.

“There is a spike in accommodation occupancy during the Gran Fondo, seeing an increase of almost 10 per cent (from 50 to 60 per cent),” Cr Kerr said.

“It demonstrates the importance of events like this to boost visitation to Port Douglas at this time of the year,” he said.

Tourism Tropical North Queensland chief executive officer Mark Olsen said it was great that interstate entries for the Port Douglas Gran Fondo Festival were already ahead of last year’s inaugural event.

“Images of riders enjoying the spectacular scenery of the Great Barrier Reef Drive hit the media last year and cycling enthusiasts around the country noticed,” he said. Registrations are at www. portdouglasgranfondo.com.au

Nominations open for 2023 John Bomben Carnival

l SOCCER

TEAM nominations are open for the 35th annual John Bomben Carnival.

The club-based tournament will be held from Thursday, September 21 to Saturday, September 23 at Endeavour Park following a break due to COVID-19 pandemic.

“It’s exciting to see the John Bomben Carnival, one of regional Queensland’s oldest football tournaments, return to Cairns after its long break during COVID,” said FQ northern region general manager Declan Carnes.

“With 2023 marking the 35th year of honouring the football legend John Bomben, through the sport he loved so dearly, we’re delighted to once again offer this

carnival experience to the next generation of football legends in Far North Queensland.”

“We are looking forward to this year’s John Bomben Carnival being one of the biggest yet, with nominations open, not only to clubs in the northern conference, but the entire footballing community,” said FQ Far North and Gulf manager Alex Srhoj.

“Teams and individuals from anywhere in the state are invited to nominate for the John Bomben Carnival and enjoy everything the region has to offer young players who are not currently registered to a club will also be able to participate once they’ve registered and paid their insurance fees.”

For more information, email to fqfngadmin@footballqueensland.com.au

Festival director Bade Stapleton of Connect Sport Australia (left), Cr Rhonda Coghlan, cyclist Cloe White, TTNQ chief Mark Olsen and Douglas Shire Mayor Michael Kerrat the Grand Fondo Festival launch.

Picture: Supplied

Far North football legend John Bomben.