Cairns Local News January 24 2025

Local News Cairns

Visitor levy in spotlight

l CAIRNS REGION

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

A VISITOR levy is back on the agenda in Cairns.

It was discussed by 200 tourism industry representatives at a ‘Destination 2045 –Queensland’s tourism future’ at The Reef Hotel Casino on Tuesday.

Mayor Amy Eden said she did not support a tax, “but I am very much in support of a visitor levy, and the visitor levy proposed will be an absolute game changer for our city, but particularly for our region, and I know for a lot of other councils, particularly along the east coast of Queensland”.

“It’s proposed to be about two and a half per cent, which is really common, and we do it all the time, when we use our credit card or, pay for things over EFTPOS, that surcharge is generally between 1.8 and 2.5 per cent,” she said.

“So, it would be like that. We know that there are hundreds and hundreds of countries across the globe that have successfully done this, and it will allow our industry to be sustainable from a ratepayers’ point of view, and that’s something that (the) council always looks towards. It will deliver a cost of living relief because as everyone knows, we support our tourism industry.”

CONTINUED PAGE 2

‘She’ll be right’

She Shed to

provide safe place for women to connect

wound up beading together in the nursing home.

A WOMEN’S version of the Men’s Shed – She Shed – is set to open in Cairns to provide a relaxed and comfortable environment where women can connect through creating, learning and sharing knowledge.

A renovated Queenslander in Martyn St, Manunda, is the home of the She Shed, which is the brainchild of Jane Mitchell.

The building has been completely fitted out and is awaiting Cairns Regional Council approval for a material change of use to community use.

So far there have been 40-plus submissions of support.

Mrs Mitchell said the idea followed three situations.

“I had helped a friend who had four children, who was a very successful business woman,” she said.

“During her struggle with cancer, she found herself misplaced in society with no connection or purpose,” she said.

“I became a support worker for a while to another lady who had a stroke. She was fully aware of what was going on but lacked mobility and had limited speech. She wanted to do beading and get out and be ‘normal’ around other women.

“With her very limited resources we

“Then I worked at a psychology office. I saw repeatedly women looking for connection following the loss of a loved one or a marriage breakdown.”

Mrs Mitchell said she was inspired by American researcher and storyteller Brene Brown who spoke about in tribal years women would go to the river to wash clothes and collect water and they would talk and connect.

“In today’s busy modern world and for many reasons, including a huge shift in the nature of gender roles, family structures, living arrangements and working life, women are becoming more isolated,” she said.

“In 2025 we would like She Shed Cairns to become a modern river for the women of Cairns.”

The Mitchell family owns the She Shed property which is rented for a nominal fee.

“In 2022 we unfortunately had a house fire on a property we owned. Thankfully there was no one hurt,” Mrs Mitchell said.

The house was condemned and a Queenslander that was headed for landfill was relocated from Stratford.

“We cut the house in half, replaced and built a new roof, built in the middle section, raised the house and built the space for the She Shed below using block walls,” Mrs Mitchell said.

CONTINUED PAGE 3

She Shed volunteer Kylie Burke (left) and founder Jane Mitchell in their new Manunda venue to help women connect, learn and develop. Picture: Nick Dalton

l CAIRNS REGION

CAIRNS Italian Festival organisers have revealed the three Italian female singers who will be Viva La Diva at this year’s event.

Sara Mazell was born in Sydney to Italo-Australian parents both in the music industry.

“Sara’s love for music and being Italian started early. Sara began singing at a young age, predominantly in English, before finding a love for Italian music, especially Italian power ballads,” the organisers said.

“With over 10 years in the industry, Sara regularly performs in production and corporate shows, as well as at weddings, functions and many Italian shows.

“Most recently, Sara has performed with Italian pop sensation Pupo throughout his Australian tours in 2022 and 2023.

“Sara has also received multiple accolades from the Australian music industry, including the ‘Johnny O’Keefe encouragement award for best new talent’, and the Australian club entertainment award for ‘rising star’. Sara’s love for performing has also taken her abroad to

Asia, the UK and Europe.”

Another talented part of Viva La Diva is Juliette Rose.

Born in Sydney to Italian migrants, Juliette developed her passion for Italian music from a young age and loves to connect with the Italo-Australian community by performing all the classics.

She is also a member of esteemed vocal quartet ‘Platinum Harmony’, an ACE and MO Award-winning group who regularly perform at corporate events and in their own shows around Sydney.

“Juliette is a passionate singer with over a decade of experience captivating audiences with her soulful and heartfelt performances,” the organisers said.

“The seasoned vocalist now regularly sings at weddings, functions, clubs, corporate shows and cultural stages across Australia at Italian festivals.

“She later showcased her international appeal with performances in Singapore, including at the iconic Universal Studios and Gardens by the Bay, and went on to tour the UK and Europe, singing at renowned venues like Euro Disneyland.”

Completing the talented line up is Jacinta Gulisano.

With both her parents being born in Italy – her father in Sicily and her mother in Calabria – Jacinta loves to embrace her Italian heritage and culture wherever she can and hopes to visit her parents’ home towns one day.

“She is incredibly excited to be performing as one third of Viva La Diva,” the organisers said. “Jacinta is one of Australia’s most exciting vocalists who has trained in all styles of dance

as well as acting for stage and screen, making her a true triple threat,” they said.

“In 2013, Jacinta appeared on Australian television screens on The X Factor Australia as a part of the judge-formed group, THIRD D3GREE, finishing as semi-finalists, one of the top four acts of their season.

“Jacinta then appeared as a solo artist on The Voice Australia (2018) where she wowed superstar coaches Boy George,

Revealed: Viva La Diva

Three entertainers to perform for first time at 2025 Italian Festival

Kelly Rowland, Delta Goodrem and Joe Jonas, making it all the way to the top 12 live finals.” More recently she has perfformed alongside Marcia Hines. In last week’s CLN the incorrect photograph and names of Viva La Diva were published due to a misunderstanding. That group is from Tasmania and is not performing at the Italian Festival. We apologise for the confusion.

Levy to raise millions of dollars for tourism back on agenda

FROM PAGE 1

Cr Eden said she was not sure not sure how much it would save ratepayers.

“It’s hard to say at this point in time, because obviously we’ve got to see it come in, but we know that the last contract that we’ve just awarded to TTNQ was $14.5 million over four years,” she said.

“And we know that we should get anywhere between $16-19m from a levy, which would be great obviously, coming back into our region.

“We want to see, events and attraction funding, that’s a really big part. We know from the Cairns survey that we want re-

ally good events, more live music. This will really help that.”

One model is that hotels and Airbnbs would charge and collect the fee on behalf of the council.

“I’m not a tourism expert, but I take the guidance of the tourism sector, and they have said this is tried and tested,” Cr Eden

said. “It’s very successful all over the globe and there’s absolutely no reason why it can’t be successful.”

State Tourism Minister Andrew Powell, who was in Cairns for the Destination 2045 forum, would not state his position on a tourism tax or levy but said he would support any discussions about the subject.

Tourism Tropical North Queensland chief executive officer Mark Olsen said 1-3 per cent tourism levies were common in 340 cities and 100 countries. He said the current $7.80 reef tax (3.5-4 per cent) had not deterred visitors.

Performer Sara Mazell.

Singer Juliette Rose. Entertainer Jacinta Gulisano.

National day activities to foster patriotism across the region

Be a proud Aussie

l FAR NORTH

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

FROM sizzling barbecues and pool parties to citizenship ceremonies and awards for our remarkable community members, Far North Queenslanders will gather this weekend to celebrate and reflect on what it means to call Australia home.

It’s set to be a jam-packed weekend for the Far North as once again the community reunites to celebrate Australia Day.

The Douglas Shire Council will be holding its Australia Day events today while Cairns Regional Council will celebrate on Sunday and the Cassowary Coast held its citizenship ceremony and awards on Thursday and will celebrate on Sunday once more with pool parties.

Family-friendly concert

This year the Australia Day citizen of the year awards have found a new home at Munro Martin Parklands with a massive free event from 5pm kicking off with the awards ceremony and followed by a family-friendly concert until 9pm, featuring local talent, including John Buttigieg, All in Line-Dancers, The Nightshift, Pyrotechnique Fire Dances and Tribal Band and Social Hour featuring Anais Campbell.

On the day the Cairns Performing Arts Centre will also host one of Cairns Regional Council’s biggest citizenship ceremonies on record with 180 new Australians.

“We’re going green and gold this year and we’re bringing back Australia and it’s a really great opportunity to celebrate what makes Cairns, Cairns and that’s our multiculturalism,” said Cairns Mayor Amy Eden.

“We’ve got a humongous citizenship ceremony over at CPAC, approximately 180 more new Aussies will be celebrating from 39 different countries across the globe and proudly calling Australia and Cairns home.

“There’ll be a free sausage sizzle – while it lasts – and there’ll be heaps of entertainment, kids’ games and just a lovely afternoon.

“Importantly, we will also be

celebrating our unsung heroes, the people that don’t look for the limelight and the glory but just roll up the sleeves and contribute so much to our community with our junior, volunteer and coveted citizen of the year and we’re hoping we’ll have thousands of people celebrating alongside.”

If there is severe weather the event is set to be moved to CPAC. All of the updates will be available on the council’s Facebook page.

Shire events today

In the Douglas Shire official events organised by the council will take place today (Friday), including citizen of the year awards and citizenship ceremonies, while the free pool event will take place on Sunday, January 26 at the Mossman Pool.

“The date change means we can come together to celebrate the contributions of individuals in the community on late Fri-

day afternoon and then enjoy the rest of the Australia Day long weekend with family and friends,” Mayor Lisa Scomazzon said.

“(The) council hopes the Friday scheduling will make it more appealing for award nominees, and the broader community, to attend this special event.”

Pool parties

The Cassowary Coast Regional Council has also re-arranged its Australia Day events having held the citizenship ceremony and Australia Day awards yesterday but there is still more in store with a refreshing free pool day on Sunday at the Mission Beach, Cardwell, Tully and Innisfail town pools.

“Australia Day is a time to celebrate together and what better way to do it than by the pool with family, friends?” said Cr Trudy Tschui.

“It is going to be a great day with free entry for all, games

and activities for the kids, music and a free sausage on bread from our wonderful local community groups.”

The pool parties will run from 10am to 2pm, except for the Tully pool which will go from 3pm to 7pm.

The fun however doesn’t stop there. All around Cairns bars, restaurants and venues will be celebrating Australia Day and there’s something for everyone.

Aussie rock at casino

Aussie rock will take over The Reef Hotel Casino to the beats of local muso Tony George live from 5.30pm, giveaways and The Great Aussie Pie special at Flinders Bar and Grill.

“After touring Europe for the last few weeks, it really has struck me just how lucky we are in Australia,” Mr George said.

“We have a fantastic weekend of live music planned for BAR36 and I can’t wait to play all the iconic Australian hits

we all grew up with. Nothing stirs the soul like ‘Never tear us apart’ by INXS, or the legendary John Farnham’s ‘You’re the voice’, including songs from AC/DC and The Angels.”

Cazalys is also bringing a family-friendly program with a kids program with games, dancing, best dressed prizes and a wildlife show from 10am to 1pm, a raffle to support Ellis Beach Surf Club, live Aussie rock by Rowly and an ‘Aussie Icons’ best dressed competition through the day.

Live music at bowlo

Live music will be a big feature of Australia Day with at the Edge Hill Cairns Bowls Club and Gilligan’s with The Vibez playing at both venues and some comedy with Gone Troppo at O’Sheas.

For more information, visit your council’s website.

So many helped She Shed get a start

FROM PAGE 1

Mrs Mitchell said more than 40 businesses donated goods, services and cash for the refit which cost up to $150,000, including Cairns Hardware (building materials and $4000 worth of power tools with the help of Makita Australia).

The shed will offer financial literacy sessions and a home maintenance program as well as sewing, pottery, printing/lino cutting, paper craft, painting and drawing, weaving, candle-making, homemade cleaning products, toilet products, macrame, jewellery, resin art, Thermomix classes, ceramic painting, cake decorating, floristry, mosaics, knitting and crocheting, photography and writing and calligraphy.

“We are very lucky to have a local wood artist, Kylie Burke, on our team. She is extremely passionate about helping women to become confident with power tools, so I’m looking forward to her classes,” Mrs Mitchell said. The aim is to open the She Shed from Monday to Saturday 8.30am-12.30pm with 24 rostered volunteers.

The volunteers will open the space, welcome people in, assist teachers, sit with people when needed and call for help should the situation arise.

“In today’s world of home invasions/car thefts I have witnessed so many kind and good acts being done to make She Shed Cairns come from a dream into a reality,” she said.

Mrs Mitchell said she had been blown away by people helping free of charge, including a renderer and a waterproofer.

She said one day recently she saw the She Shed she had dreamed of in action.

“We were recycling some second-hand furniture to get ready to store some of the craft donations I turned around, I had women sanding and drilling doors back onto a cupboard and a friend who is struggling with breast cancer called in,” Mrs Mitchell said. “I sat with her and listened to her world and what’s happening. We had done it, a place where we can connect,” she said.

“I know we have to make it all proper now, but She Shed Cairns in its infant stages is alive and I’m very grateful on behalf of those women who need it.”

Danny Bani (left) from the Bani Brothers, Lolarose Lyons of the Sand and Sea dancers, Cairns Mayor Amy Eden, Sand and Sea dancer Kayla-Rose Rocky, and Enzo Russo and Anais Campbell are gearing up for Australia Day at Munro Martin Parklands. Picture: Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

Shire council updates disaster scheme

Jasper leads to fresh plan

l DOUGLAS SHIRE

| Nick Dalton

DOUGLAS Shire Council

has updated its Local Disaster Management Plan, learning from the lessons of Cyclone Jasper and the subsequent unprecedented flooding a year ago. The plan covers prevention, preparedness, response and recovery.

Douglas Shire Council Mayor and Local Disaster Management Group chairwoman Lisa Scomazzon said planning for a natural disaster was critical.

“When disaster strikes, it can catch people unaware, and many who have not had a disaster experience may have trouble handling such a highpressure situation,” she said.

“Having a plan that everyone can refer to takes away the question of how the emergency should be handled.

“Roles are designated in the plan, giving everyone involved a clear set of procedures to follow, helping your team remain calm and focused under pressure.

“Effectively managing a

disaster has many flow-on benefits, with regular business operations less likely to experience disruptions, ensuring that your business can get back on track as quickly as possible.

“It can also help prevent injury to personnel and reduce poor customer experiences, reducing the risk of reputational loss and preventing legal liabilities from arising.

“The preservation of life is the highest priority for the Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG).”

Cr Scomazzon said exTropical Cyclone Jasper and the flooding that followed just over a year ago was a stark reminder of the destructive power of Mother Nature.

“While it was an unprecedented weather event we would rather forget, and one we hope is never repeated, it did provide the LDMG with some valuable lived experiences,” she said.

“Every year the LDMG prepares for the upcoming cyclone season but the ultimate test of its planning, and ability to react swiftly, came when the Douglas Shire experienced

flooding, landslides, power and communication blackouts, as well as widespread damage to the water and road networks.

“The LDMG worked tirelessly and achieved much for its community, both through the initial emergency period, and then as the recovery process began.

“Thinking on our feet, improvising, embracing our specialised talents, working with relief staff and advocating for communities contributed to our success.

“But, while Jasper threw some curveballs, it also highlighted why planning for a natural disaster is so vital.

“For many Douglas Shire residents, and some of our LDMG members, Jasper was their first encounter with a natural disaster.

“Now 12 months on, the experience and knowledge gained from TC Jasper is being used in the preparation and planning for any future disasters to ensure the disruption to our Douglas Shire communities is kept to a minimum.”

To read the plan visit https://bit.ly/4fTfuja

Pinball puts Cairns on map

l CAIRNS CBD

| Isaac Colman

PINBALL fans from across the region are increasing in numbers, as more locals register for tournaments at Empire Alternacade Cairns.

Empire sets itself apart from any other bar in the region, with old school and classic arcade machines, retro consoles and 100+ board games to make it the go-to location for locals.

Hosting their first pinball tournament in February last year with less than 10

participants, Empire now sees an average of over 50 per tournament, hosted on the last Monday of every month.

Empire general manager Ronan Wolfe said attending the tournaments came with many benefits and gave participants a social group as well as a network opportunity.

“There are great benefits to joining,” he said.

“Not just the free meal you get for joining in, but a great supportive community who is ready to share tips and tricks to help

you beat those personal best scores.

“It also opens up the opportunity to find likeminded people in a safe inclusive environment and it's family-friendly.”

Mr Wolfe said the tournaments were growing and were as popular as Townsville.

“If we keep growing this community, I can see Cairns being a destination for a possible future pinball championships, just like Townsville,” he said.

“This can put Cairns on the map for pinball.”

Cairns Cruising Yacht Club

AUSTRALIA DAY

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

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

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

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

SMARTPHONE & TABLET SOLUTIONS

Empire Alternacade Cairns general manager Ronan Wolfe. Picture: Isaac Colman

Repair works top $80m

l FAR NORTH

MORE than $80 million has been spent on emergency and critical stabilisation works throughout the Far North following Tropical Cyclone Jasper a year ago.

A Department of Transport and Main Roads spokesman said while that work was being done, the department planned and designed the permanent reconstruction works detailed in January 10’s Cairns Local News.

TMR is focused on repairing priority routes: Kennedy Highway on the Kuranda Range, Palmerston Highway, Captain Cook Highway, MossmanMount Molloy Rd and Mossman-Daintree Rd.

All work is on target to be completed by mid-2026, weather permitting.

The spokesman said the program cost was subject to further review as funding submissions were prepared and lodged with the Queensland Reconstruction Authority and following procurement with confirmed tender prices for all projects.

“The allocation of funding is determined based on where damage is incurred and to reinstate damaged sites to their predisaster function,” he said.

“Recovery works will support regional jobs at numerous damage sites across Far North Queensland.”

Royal start to itinerary

Queen Elizabeth first to dock at port for bumper ‘25 cruise season

l CAIRNS MARINA

| Nick Dalton

THE 2025 cruise shipping season has kicked off with royalty.

Queen Elizabeth was the first of the year and stayed three days last week before sailing last Friday at 6pm. Also in port at the same time for two days was Europa 2. On board both ships were about 2600 passengers.

Last year there were 86 visits to the Port of Cairns, 18 off Yorkeys Knob and 20 off Port Douglas 20, with 11 turnarounds at Cairns.

This year 96 visits are scheduled at Cairns, with 14 off Yorkeys Knob and 26 at Port Douglas, with 16 turnarounds at Cairns.

The boutique ultra-luxury cruise ship Le Jacques Cartier, with just 184 passengers, visits Cairns for the first time on February 16 year, returning twice in 2025.

October is the busiest month with 13 visits. Pacific Encounter will be the most frequent ship with 10 stopovers and the longest vessels at 294m long are Queen Elizabeth and Carnival Luminosa (five visits), the heaviest Diamond Princess (115,875 tonnes) and the one with the most passengers Carnival Splendor (3754 passengers).

An interesting visitor will be Villa Vie Odyssey in November.

It is 195.95m long, yet weighs just 24,344 tonnes and carries 650 “residents” and about 300 passengers on a three and a half year cruise, visiting 425 destinations, 147 countries and 100plus islands as it circumnavigates the world. It is scheduled to return in February next year.

Inside villas cost $129,999 or can be rented and top out at $439,999 for a villa suite.

Monthly fees range from $1999 per double or $2499 solo to $5499 double or $9999 solo.

Ports North chief executive officer Richard Stevenson said the arrival of both ships “marks the beginning of another strong cruise season in 2025, with approximately 9000 people expected to visit Cairns in January alone”.

“As the gateway to the Great

Barrier Reef and World Heritage listed rainforest, we look forward to welcoming around 90 vessels and more than 130,000 people through the Port of Cairns to experience the natural wonder and world class tourism that our region has to offer,” he said.

Earlier Mr Stevenson said improved port capacity, regional tourism experiences and con-

venient services had contributed to steady growth.

“As a result of the successful $120m Cairns Shipping Development project delivered in 2020, the Port of Cairns can accommodate vessels up to 300 metres,” he said.

“This has enabled significant growth in cruise visitation and a sustained injection to our regional economy.”

The Villa Vie Odyssey visits Cairns later this year on a three and a half year world cruise. Inset: Queen Elizabeth was the first ship to visit Cairns in 2025, spending three days at port last week. Main picture: Supplied. Inset: Ports North

HYPNOTIC CONFIDENCE

What lies behind your thoughts?

Hi there and welcome to my second Hypnotic Confi dence column. I’m Dave, a Cairns-based Certifi ed Clinical Hypnotherapist and Hypnotic Life Coach. I’m the lead therapist at Confi-denceControl, where I blend hypnotherapy with life coaching to help people break the destruc-tive habits and thought patterns which are holding them back.

This week, I’ll talk a bit about your subconscious mind. You may not realise it, but your conscious mind – or your thinking mind – only accounts for five percent of your mental capacity.

The other 95 percent is your subconscious mind, and that’s the part which takes care of all the important stuff keeping you alive – heart rate, breathing, digestion etc. And let’s face it, if we consciously had to think about doing all that, we’d be in trouble!

Your subconscious mind is also where your feelings are generated and your memories are stored. It holds all your beliefs about yourself and how you perceive yourself – in other words, the type of person you believe you are.

These beliefs stored in your subconscious mind have a huge impact on how you experience your life. If you hold negative beliefs about yourself at the subconscious level, you will tend to experience negative realities in your life. (If you think you’re no good, guess what, you will live your life like you’re no good.)

So, here’s an example of the power of your subconscious mind. Imagine that you’re four or five years old, you’re in the kitchen and a spider runs out. Mum screams and jumps on a chair, and your subconscious mind says “that’s the appropriate response to those things because mum just did it and that’s who we’re learning from”. That goes into your mind and onto your map of reality – how you navigate the World.

Then, for every spider you see for the rest of your life, your mind produces a fear response. You tense up, your heart beats faster and you start to sweat, even though your logical mind is now saying “that’s tiny, it can’t possibly harm me”. However, all of that logical stuff is being

rejected by your subconscious mind because it doesn’t match up with what you already know: Spiders are scary! Your lived reality matches what the subconscious believes. Or, put another way, your thoughts determine your reality.

With my ConfidenceControl program, your powerful subconscious is safely accessed directly, allowing unhelpful behaviours and thought patterns to be changed.

This can produce extremely positive, life-changing results in a short amount of time.

If this makes sense to you, why don’t you contact me for a FREE online strategy session. Together we can look at working on your individual roadmap to recovery and a more fulfilled life. You can contact me on 0401 223780 or support@ confidencecontrol.com.au

Dave is a Cairns-based Clinical Hypnotherapist and Hypnotic Life Coach who works online. He is university educated and vocationally trained in delivering evidence-based psychoeducation, including CBT and Solution-Focused Therapy. He is a clinical member of the Australian Guild of Hypnotherapists (GoAH) and the Hypnotherapy Council of Australia (HCA). His website is: https://www.confidencecontrol.com.au/

School’s back in a few days

Prepare kids to return to classroom

l MANUNDA

| Isaac Colman

ONLY days away, the beginning of the 2025 school year comes with a need for preparation, with school supplies such as stationery, technology and backpacks available at various stores around Cairns.

Technological needs are being met by Harvey Norman and The Good Guys while stationery supplies are available at Far North Office Choice, Big W, Spotlight and Officeworks.

parents and families.

“Tips for parents would definitely be to get in early,” Ms Vallely said.

“Stock sells out really quickly,” she said.

Ms Vallely said parents should also be prepared to meet the specific needs of schools.

“A lot of schools are very particular with what they need,” she said.

“It’s a really good idea to bring your list to your supplier as soon as possible.”

SWIMMING instructor

Allison Tyson, otherwise known as AlyT the swim mechanic, has been swimming for as long as she has been walking and a qualified swim instructor since 1993.

"During Covid, like many places around the world, my local pool was forced to shut down," she said.

Lacking Confidence? Anxious? Stressed? Hypnotherapy could be the answer.

Hypnotherapy is a powerful, proven method that can change your negative thought patterns and subconscious beliefs which are disrupting your mental wellbeing. It works by communicating directly with the most powerful and creative part of your mind, putting you back in charge of your own thoughts and responses. With hypnotherapy, you can change almost any current behaviour that you are unhappy with. Hypnotherapy can help with the following:

Anxiety | Alcohol and Drug Habits | Allergies | Anger Issues | Bad Habits | Bereavement

Blushing | Bruxism (teeth grinding) | Depression | Fears | Guilt | Headaches | Insomnia

Jealousy | Migraines | Motivation | Nail Biting | Nightmares | Pain Relief | Performance Anxiety

Phobias | Public Speaking | Sports Performance | Stammering | Trauma | Weight Loss

Contact Dave at ConfidenceControl for a FREE strategy session on 0401 223780 or support@confidencecontrol.com.au https://www.confidencecontrol.com.au/contact-rates/

Alongside these various options, local supplier Harleys Educational stands out, with specific needs for the majority of schools in the Cairns region and surrounding areas.

Established in 1976, Harleys Educational is the largest family-owned educational supplier in North Queensland, employing an energetic team with a wealth of knowledge.

Harleys Educational manager Kristy Vallely said parents should make sure to have their children prepared for the school year early, giving timely tips for

Horsing around

LAST Saturday morning

Kelly Hooper-Grogan and Linda Butler (right) from Earlville Pony Club took their horses to Earlville Shopping Town, staying for over an hour allowing people who walked past to pat and enjoy the horses.

“It was such a fun-filled morning,” Ms Butler said.

Ms Vallely also said that organisation was key when it came to back-to-school preparation.

“A really good idea for parents is to label all items,” she said.

“There’s a lot of identical products, especially when schools are particular with what they need.

“It’s ideal to make sure everything is labelled up to pencils and erasers.”

“These steps help save the hassle of making multiple trips throughout the year, making preparation for going back to school smooth and easy.”

"It was during the forced closures I decided to write a series of learn-to-swim books for parents and guardians, so that anyone, anywhere, could use my methods to teach their kids to swim."

Her books include:

• Levels 1 to 4 learn to swim

• Level 1 – The foundations

• Swimming flashcards

• Water safety activity book.

To order books or for more information visit: https://bit.ly/40sCSyv

The team at Harleys Educational with manager Kristy Vallely (centre). Picture: Isaac Colman

40th birthday for Probus

l KURRIMINE BEACH

THE Innisfail Probus Club celebrates its 40th birthday next month.

A birthday lunch will be held at the Kurrimine Beach Motel on Thursday, February 6.

Club publicity officer Col Ritchie said the club was formed in 1985 and currently had a combined membership in the 90s with monthly meeting attendances averaging 70.

“The club is a not-for-profit social club for semi-retired and retired active members of the Innisfail community,” he said.

“Meetings are held on the fourth Thursday of every month at 9am at the Innisfail RSL Club where dine-outs, trips and activities are arranged and include monthly newsletters, members’ welfare, birthdays and anniversaries, guest speakers, morning teas, raffles and humorous stories.

“If you’re feeling lonely and need social company come and join us. You will be made most welcome.”

At its last meeting in December, nearly 60 members and their guests, 18 from the Ingham club and seven from Mission Beach/ El Arish for a total of 98 gathered for Christmas festivities at the Kurrimine Beach Motel. Visit the club’s Facebook page. For more information contact secretary Marianne on 0429 653 775 or probusclubofinnisfail@ gmail.com

Port Hinchinbrook’s $19m sewerage treatment plant opens ...

What’s next for resort?

| Nick Dalton

PREPARATIONS to put the remainder of Port Hinchinbrook on the market for redevelopment are underway following the final step in the ‘normalisation’ of the project – the opening of the $19m Port Hinchinbrook sewerage treatment plant last week.

In an answer to a question in parliament by Hinchinbrook MP Nick Dametto about the future of Port Hinchinbrook, Deputy Premier and State Development, Infrastructure and Planning and

Industrial Relations Minister Jarrod Bleijie said Economic Development Queensland (EDQ) had investigated a number of options for consideration by the Queensland Government to resolve the existing site conditions that would facilitate the remainder of the Port Hinchinbrook area to be developed.

“EDQ engaged with key stakeholders in late August 2024 following the announcement of additional funding to complete works to the sewer treatment plant at Port Hinchinbrook by the previous administration,” he said. “As discussed at the meet-

ing held on December 12, 2024, the government will review the options provided by EDQ and consider any future activities.”

Mr Dametto’s spokeswoman said the answer referred to a meeting held with the deputy premier in December last year and “we are still waiting to hear anything further”.

“We will be following up with the deputy premier again in February when parliament resumes to hopefully obtain the LNP’s confirmation that they will proceed with the current plan and works that EDQ have commenced,” she said.

A Cassowary Coast Regional Council spokeswoman said the treatment plant “marks (the) council’s final stage in the normalisation process, reflecting ongoing efforts to address the estate’s privately owned infrastructure. These upgrades include roads, culverts, and pump stations”.

“(The) council is currently completing emergency dredging works in Port Hinchinbrook. This project is a significant step forward for our community, enhancing access and usability of the area,” she said.

At the opening, Mr Dametto

praised the persistence and hard work of those that made the project a reality, describing it as a major step forward for the region.

Cassowary Coast Mayor Teresa Millwood said the opening “is a momentous occasion for the Port Hinchinbrook community.”

“This plant not only safeguards the health and wellbeing of our residents but also supports the continued growth of this iconic destination,” she said.

“We are deeply grateful for the Queensland and Australian governments’ support of our region’s needs.”

Our friendly medical team.

Image by City Life.

l CARDWELL

At the opening (in front, third from left) Mayor Teresa Millwood and Member for Mulgrave Terry James with Hinchinbrook MP Nick Dametto (third from right).

An aerial view of the new $19m Port Hinchinbrook sewerage treatment plant. Pictures: Cassowary Coast Regional Council

Large boost for COUCH

Freemason lodges donate $40,000 for prostate cancer

l MANOORA

| Andree Stephens

TWO Freemason lodges have donated $40,000 to the COUCH Wellness Centre to promote awareness and assist in post-cancer treatment services.

Representatives from COUCH, Prostate Cancer Cairns, the Endeavour and Bentley Park lodges and Hand Heart Pocket (HHP), the charity for Freemasons Queensland, met for morning tea at the COUCH Wellness Centre to mark the occasion and to discuss ways in which the funding would be used.

HHP’s Cairns representative Alan Sims said $15,000 was raised by members of the two lodges which was then boosted to $40,000 by the state charity.

This money would support an awareness campaign on prostate testing and go towards services delivered by COUCH for post-cancer treatment support.

“Local lodges from the District Grand Lodge of Carpentaries, together with matched giving from Hand Heart Pocket, made donations in North Queensland in November and December alone, of the staggering amount of $86,300,” Mr Sims said.

“The charities that were supported were prostate cancer, Royal Flying Doctor Service, COUCH, Marilyn Mayo accommodation, the Rural Fire Service, Tableland Food Truck, and a school in Innisfail.

“So many people in the community are not aware of the benevolent work done by Masonic lodges with the assistance of HHP.

“Over and above what the lodges give to charity, Hand Heart Pocket gives approximately $5.5 million a year to charity throughout Queensland.”

COUCH chief executive officer Wendy Hughes said the donation was a welcome contribution to the organisation.

“It will go towards supporting people to recover quickly from intervention-based medical treatment for cancer, through our planned exercise, yoga, pilates, music therapy, art classes and nutrition workshops,” she said.

programs

Workers scheme extended

l FAR NORTH

A SCHEME to fix critical workforce shortages in the Far North is to be extended by the federal government by two years until April 4, 2027.

The extension to the Far North Queensland (FNQ) Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA) is a result of strong advocacy from the Cairns Chamber of Commerce and Federal Member for Leichhardt Warren Entsch.

Since its inception six years ago, the FNQ DAMA has helped businesses get access to skilled workers, supporting economic growth and addressing specific labour demands across a variety of industries.

Mr Entsch said it was “a huge win for our region and a testament to the power of effective advocacy”.

“The Cairns Chamber of Commerce, under the leadership of Patricia O’Neill, has done a tremendous job in championing the DAMA and ensuring the voices of Far North Queensland businesses were heard loud and clear in Canberra. This extension builds on the six successful years of the DAMA and is critical for the continued growth and sustainability of our regional economy,” he said.

Ms O’Neill said the government’s decision highlighted the importance of the DAMA to the region’s businesses.

At the donation handover are (third from left) Hand Heart Pocket chairman Alan Sims, COUCH CEO Wendy Hughes, Ron Clarke of the Endeavour Lodge, Dave Hayward, Cairns Prostate Support Group chairman Brett Duck, district grand master Dave Scott with lodge and prostate group members. Picture: Andree Stephens

Book prepares for death

| Isaac Colman

FAR North Queenslander voices have been brought together with a unified effort, ensuring families understand their loved ones’ end-of-life choices.

Catering specifically for the region’s Indigenous communities and population, the ‘Your Final Footprints’ booklet features Indigenous artwork, serving the purpose of encouraging Indigenous families to have the conversation early.

Designed to help individuals plan the final chapter of their lives, the Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service’s (CHHHS) booklet has been provided to assist families in understanding their loved ones’ wishes.

Health service consumer advisor Patrick Wheeler said families faced many challenges when a loved one became seriously ill or injured.

“This booklet guides our communities on how to have conversations about

the kind of medical care you want,” he said.

“By writing down your wishes, you make it easier for your family to make decisions during difficult times.”

Fellow consumer advisor Ian Appo said it only took a few hours to decide who should speak on a person’s behalf if they were too unwell.

“Start these conversations early,” he said.

“Share your wishes, concerns and preferences for care with your family.”

Council applies for disaster funding

Popular spots to be fixed up

l CAIRNS REGION

| Isaac Colman and Nick Dalton

TWO popular recreational destinations significantly damaged during Cyclone Jasper and the unprecedented flooding have been earmarked for government disaster funding.

Ivan Evans walking track at Bayview Heights and School Park at Machans Beach require substantial rectification works.

Cr Cathy Zeiger, whose division 3 includes the walking track, told last month’s council meeting that she was “very excited” that the council was applying for funds to restore the track.

She said the grant was critical for the repairs

“So much was washed out with erosion and it’s a bit dangerous,” Cr Zeiger said.

Last week on January 15 she went for a walk on the track and noticed more storm damage.

“Ivan Evans walk is currently blocked about one third of the way in from the Toogood Rd entry,” she posted on Facebook.

Two big trees and a heap of vines have come down blocking the track. I’ll put in a work order this morning to get it cleared

asap. If you’re after a decent walk, start from the Ellen Close entry.”

A council report said an audit of the 2.1km track found 24 hazards and 10 high-priority concerns, including erosion, structural wear and potential safety risks.

“It has also been recommended the trail be reclassified from grade 3 to a grade 4 to reflect some of the challenging track sections,” it said.

“Improvements required include the addition of prefabricated steps, handrails, as well as better water crossings, installation of updated trail signage.”

The report said repair costs were projected to be more than at $231,000, with high-prior-

ity repairs alone estimated at $119,630.

It said facilities at School Park at Machans Beach sustained significant damage as a result of the extreme weather event, with an estimated $134,500 in repairs required.

“This includes the resurfacing of the tennis and basketball courts, repairs to fencing, retaining walls, and electrics, new seat installation and extension of playground edging,” it said.

The council will make a submission to the Sport and Recreation Recovery Grant, a rolling program funded jointly by the Australian and Queensland governments under category D of the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

l CAIRNS NORTH

With the ‘Your Final Footprints’ booklet are (from left) Ian Appo, Sabrina Davies, Ada Tillet, Laura Lyall, Louise Lawrie and Patrick Wheeler. Picture: Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service

The entrance to Ivan Evans walk off Toogood Rd, Bayview Heights.

Pictures portray 1000 words

Every one of 140 photographs on display tell a different story about

Aussie lives

l CAIRNS CBD

| Isaac Colman

MORE than 140 photographs, each telling a different story, are on display at the Court House and Mulgrave galleries as part of three new photojournalism exhibitions.

The Cairns Court House Gallery’s ‘Paper Tigers’ exhibition, curated by Sydney Head On’s Moshe Rosenzveig and globally renowned photojournalist Brian Cassey, features 60 pieces, one from each of Australia’s best photojournalists.

Alongside Paper Tigers, last Friday also marked the launch of Brian Cassey’s ‘A Photographer’s life Part Three: The Portraits’ at Mulgrave Gallery.

Alongside at Mulgrave Gallery is the youth photojournalism project ‘Word on the Street’.

Paper Tigers features a collection of images that define modern Australia while reflecting culture, making political statements and representing diverse aspects of life.

Alongside Paper Tigers, Friday also marked the launch of Brian Cassey’s A Photographer’s life Part Three: The Portraits at Mulgrave Gallery.

Having covered stories and events as a photojournalist for international media publications for several decades, Mr Cassey has remained based in Cairns.

With his Part One and Part Two exhibitions taking a retrospective approach, Part Three concentrates on the ordinary people he has encountered in recent years, from a bus stop on Lake Street to a wedding party in India.

Word on the Street offers a local and youthful counterpoint to the work of seasoned professionals, involving young photo-enthusiasts from Trinity Bay State High School, capturing stories under the guidance of Mr Cassey and Cairns Local News cadet journalist Isaac Colman.

Mr Cassey (above right) said

series ‘Congolese community in Cairns’ represents the region’s Congolese community and their focus on the younger generation.

that as each exhibition gave a different perspective, each of the perspectives complemented each other.

“As Paper Tigers features some of the best photojournalists in Australia, Word on the Street features aspiring photojournalists,” he said.

nalism industry distinguish the series from its previous two counterparts.

“(A Photographer’s Life) part one and part two were a mixture of photojournalism portraying news events both locally and internationally over the decades,” he said.

“A Photographer’s Life Part Three explores the everyday lives of people in Australia and overseas.

“(The exhibitions) are all different aspects of photography in the news industry over the decades and the future.”

Mr Cassey said A Photographer’s life Part Three’s portrayal of the changes in the photojour-

“A Photographer’s Life Part Three shows how photographic coverage has changed in the media environment.

“It’s been a pleasure to document the people that have become my friends in the process.

“There are over 140 photographs in all three exhibitions combined, each photograph tells an individual story.”

Visit cairns.qld.gov.au to find your nearest drop-off point

‘Legacy of local leagues’ by Isaac Colman highlights the significance of community made through sport.

David Mashengo’s

Kasey Rawson-Harris’ ‘Music in the region’ series captures a local band performing at Munro Martin Parklands for the recent Dream Aloud festival.

Sylvine Rahabu’s series ‘Faith, family and fortune,’ portrays her father of the Congolese community.

Lettersto the editor

Last week’s question was: What should be done about the roaming dingoes at Port Douglas? Here are just some of your comments.

I think a sign should be put up in the area so people stop trying to rescue them and stop feeding them. Otherwise let them be.

- Heather Marie, Facebook

Leave them alone and stop the drama of this question. People roaming around are a problem, not the dingoes.

- Rosemary Aquilina, Facebook

Leaving them alone will sadly lead to exactly what happens on Fraser Island.

- Daniel McCarthy, Facebook

Leave them be and put signs up just like the crocodile warning signs – Croc Wise/Dingo Wise.

- Ninetta Campagna Fornera, Facebook

Same as with roaming kids,

house them, feed them and send them on their merry way.

- Ernst Sahm, Facebook

Leave them be.

- Katrina Johnston, Janine Slater, Jenni Walker and Maggie Hards, Facebook

Nothing. Leave them alone. - Valerie Mandall, Facebook

They need to be managed to ensure they don’t attack children, people, domestic animals or farm animals such as calves, chickens or ducks. If they do, they must be caught and taken far away from the Port Douglas area. The backpackers who have been feeding them should be fined and sent on their way out of town too.

- John Nicholas, Facebook

Nicci Dent CEO, Heart Research Australia

Priscilla Boynton, Stratford Dingoes at Port

Rob Barnett, Port Douglas

Paul Matthews, Freshwater

Katherina Hunter, Port Douglas

THIS WEEK’S QUESTION What do you think about the She Shed and its aims?

@cairnslocalnews

Historic yacht rally returns

l PORT DOUGLAS

THERE’S plenty of history surrounding the Port Douglas Yacht Club with its very first meeting 40 years ago, back in 1985.

It wasn’t for another nine years, however, that the members eventually opened a proper club house.

After much fund raising, the club was able to move from the Tin Shed and was officially opened by Sir James Hardy on December 4, 1993.

Peter Hinchcliffe was the commodore at the time and with his team of helpers held all the negotiations to get their club house started.

Back then there were no employed staff, so volunteers worked in the kitchen and behind the bar. Eventually, all that changed and they employed a manager and opened Friday, Saturday and Sunday each week.

As the patronage has grown over the years, the club has had a few add-ons, one of the very first upgrades being a new roof over the side towards Closehaven Marina.

Today, when sitting under the iron roof, people are still able to see the names of the yachts whose owners donated $30 a sheet to make the extension possible.

Since those early days, there have been many other improvements, making the Port Douglas Yacht Club a muchloved venue for both members and visitors to enjoy.

The club has just recently announced the return of the famous, or should I say, infamous Australia Day Port Douglas to Low Isles Launch Rally, which is happening this Sunday.

This event has been made available to motor launches, motor yachts and sailing yachts. Those keen to get involved have been encouraged to smarten up their vessel, rustle up a crew and join in this heritage event.

The rally can trace its origins back to 1962, well before the yacht club was thought of.

Back then a couple of launch owners had a race around Low Island and subsequently, each year after that, it grew and

finally became an important part of the tapestry that was life in Port Douglas.

The day actually became so popular, crowds lined the banks of Dickson Inlet to cheer on the boats.

Unfortunately, however, the rally was abandoned in 2014 because of the cost of insurance.

Eleven years on, apart from re-establishing the event, this year will be the 50th running of the Launch Rally and, as in past years, locals are encouraged

to come along and cheer on those taking part. All vessel skippers are asked to decorate their yachts and dress up their crews to add to the atmosphere. Multiple prizes will be available, including the overall winner, best dressed crew and best decorated yacht.

Apart from the club hosting the event, this year the Queensland Fire Department will – if they are not attending to an emergency – create a wall of water near the start line. The day is also sup-

ported by the Maritime Therapy Group and the Tin Shed.

It is an interesting event as it is not a race, but more of a time trial, where skippers are given the distance to Low Isles in kilometres and the expected weather conditions.

They then nominate the speed they will average for the event in knots, plus their preferred starting time. All starting times are recorded, to the second, and there is even a prize for whoever starts

closest to their allocated time.

For those keen to take a look, the first vessels will set off about 10am this Sunday.

I’m off to check the wind conditions, so for now it’s Gazza signing out.

Send your stories to gazza@cairnslocalnews. com.au

PDYC Rear Commodore Peter Cooper is excited about the Australia Day launch rally. Picture: Gary ‘Gazza’ McIlroy

Aviation group needs reps

Call out to beaches and city residents to join airport consultative organisation

l VOLUNTEERS WANTED

REPRESENTATIVES are still required for Cairns Airport’s Community Aviation Consultation Group (CACG).

The purpose of the CACG is to ensure representation of communities affected by airport development or operations.

Representatives are sought from Cairns City/Cairns North, Aeroglen and Clifton Beach.

Carol Hall, who is Machans Beach’s representative, told the suburb’s newsletter Machanations, that it had been a year since CACG has had a formal meeting.

“This has been due to not achieving a quorum. To address this, Cairns Airport has been actively advertising over the last few months for representatives from the flight path suburbs to volunteer for the CACG,” she said.

“Machans, Holloways, Yorkeys and Trinity Beach positions have all been filled now, and representatives for Aeroglen and Cairns/Cairns North

(and Clifton Beach) are still needed,” Ms Hall said.

“The purpose of the CACG is to ensure that community views are effectively heard by the airport and to serve as a forum for its members to raise and discuss airport-related, environmental and community issues and have the opportunity to obtain information about what is happening at the airport.

“If you have any airportrelated community concerns or feedback, you can voice them through the community association, firstly via secretary.mbca@machansbeach. net where the matters will be discussed and then passed to your CACG representative to be raised at the next meeting.”

According to the airport’s website the intended role of the Cairns Airport CACG is: • to enable airport operators, local residents, authorities and other interested parties to exchange information on issues relating to airport operations • to allow matters to be raised and considered by

Cairns Airport (the operator), with a genuine desire to resolve issues that may emerge • to discuss and share information between the airport and communities affected by its operations and plans.

“The Cairns Airport CACG is aimed at facilitating wellinformed and collaborative discussions on a wide range of matters,” the website said.

“Cairns Airport gives serious consideration to recommendations made by the CACG, particularly in relation to planning and development.

“The CACG is one avenue through which matters can be raised and does not replace other feedback mechanisms established by the operator or authorities (such as the handling of aircraft noise complaints by Air Services Australia and Cairns Regional Council).

“The Cairns Airport CACG is neither an arbitration nor a decision-making body and meetings will not be allowed to be dominated by a single topic or individual member.”

Cairns Airport needs more representatives for its community action group. Picture: Cairns Airport

Spotlight on Northern Beaches

Prestigious global magazine places seaside resort village in highest 10

Palm Cove gets top rating

l INDUSTRY AWARDS

PALM Cove and Cairns have been rated in the top 10 destinations in Australia by TimeOut travel and leisure website and magazine.

Their Melbourne arts and culture editor Ashleigh Hastings said “I’m dreaming of a sneaky long weekend in Palm Cove in Tropical North Queensland”.

“It’s a world away from my local Melbourne weather, but the flight is only a few hours. Goodbye four seasons in one day, hello paradise. I can imagine walking barefoot under the coconut palms and 500-year-old melaleuca trees, from a dip in the ocean to a soak in one of the village’s many day spas. Absolute bliss,” she said.

Tourism Palm Cove president Matthew Cork said “we are thrilled to announce our nomination by the editors at TimeOut as one of the top 10 Australian destinations to visit in 2025”.

“This recognition under-

scores the unique appeal of our region and positions us favourably on a global stage,” he said.

Mr Cork said TimeOut was a prestigious global magazine published by TimeOut Group. “Since its inception in London in 1968, the magazine has expanded its reach to encompass editorial recommendations for 333 cities across 59 countries,” he said.

“In 2012, the London edition transitioned to a free publication, achieving an impressive weekly readership of over 307,000.

“Time Out enjoys a robust international presence, boasting partnerships with major companies like Nokia and offering mobile applications for both iOS and Android systems.

“With multiple awards to its credit, including the International Consumer Magazine of the Year in 2010 and 2011, as well as the rebranded International Consumer Media Brand of the Year in 2013 and 2014,

Time Out currently serves an impressive audience of over 7.4 million readers.”

TimeOut’s Melbourne food and drink writer Lauren Dinse said she had never been to tropical Far North Queensland, “so I’d love to see Cairns”.

“I want to have a fresh seafood lunch aboard the Prawn Star trawler, spend a day swimming and lounging at the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon with a good book (it pleases me that there are no crocs lurking in there), boat on the river through ancient rainforests, learn more about bush foods on the Ngadiku Dreamtime Walks conducted by local Indigenous guides and pop my skydiving cherry with a jump over the Great Barrier Reef,” she said.

“Kuranda looks like a cool mountainside village to explore with its bustling markets and I’d also love to visit beachfront restaurant Nu Nu for a serene dinner amongst the coconut palms.”

Tablelands.

A couple take a walk under swaying palm trees along Palm Cove’s beach. Picture: Tourism Tropical North Queensland

Spotlight on Southside

Green ticks to Div 2’s plans

Cr Matthew Tickner marks off jobs done while details works in progress for ‘25

l COUNCIL MATTERS

| Nick Dalton

DIVISION 2 Councillor Matthew Tickner has been ticking off items that he listed on his ‘Campaign Plan for Division 2’ since being sworn in nine months ago.

“Being a councillor can be a peculiar role that sees your days full of meetings, correspondence, engagements, etc. It really is an amazing job to have,” he said.

“However, while cutting through the day-to-day issues and agenda, it’s vital we step back and evaluate our progress on the greater vision and as all ‘good’ elected representatives should reflect on the reason why your community voted for you and if you are doing what you said you would do.

“In hindsight, trying to fit in all the work that has been progressed on many of these items was extremely difficult, so I have given a green tick to the items that are well progressed and underway and an orange tick to the items that are part progressed and in planning.

“There are also some really big items I’m starting to make noise on that will significantly re-imagine the south if we can get traction on them. They are the new Edmonton town centre (Mann’s Farm), the Edmonton Leisure Precinct (Walker Rd, Sugarworld Adventure Park, Bana Gindarja Creek) and Edmonton Library re-development.”

Cr Tickner has given green ticks to:

• A new enclosed dog park for Mt Sheridan. “Community consultation on this will begin in the new year,” he said.

• Higher level of scrutiny for new development planning. “A key focus early in my term with an immense amount of time being devoted to new development in our southern growth corridor, including having to deny poor proposals to align with this commitment,” Cr Tickner said.

• Priority review and safety upgrade plan for our key connection corridors. “Mt Peter Rd upgrades started to be completed in 2025. Crucial advocacy on the new

Bentley Park interchange (solving issues at Ravizza, Bi-Centennial and Roberts roads). Plenty more infrastructure pieces being developed,” he said.

• Reduce litter and install more bins at our local bus stops. “First bin as parts of this strategy was installed (late last year) with more to come,” Cr Tickner said.

• Increase the city safe CCTV to hotspots in division 2. “Continued advocacy on this internally has seen new cameras installed, further patrols added and an increase in private security patrols to Sugarworld and Walker Rd sporting facility,” he said.

Orange ticks for work in progress include:

• Reigniting Edmonton pool funding

• Upgrades to Todd Park skate park and Walker Rd mountain bike tracks

• Developing an official ‘destination park for the south of Cairns to become a key attraction for families

• Improving and upgrading existing playgrounds.

Cr Matthew Tickner is pushing for playground upgrades. Picture: Facebook

TimeOut

Annual Chinese festivities start next week

Lunar New Year

l CAIRNS CBD

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

RED lanterns, dancing lions and delicious banquets will all be protagonists at the Chinese New Year celebrations as the community prepares to welcome the year of the snake with joy and hope.

Once again, the Cairns and District Chinese Association Inc (CADCAI) is inviting the Cairns community to celebrate the start of another lunar year through a 15-day festival full of culture, delicious cuisine and traditions to bring good fortune in the new year from January 29 to February 15.

Classic features of the event are returning, including the lantern festival and lion and dragon dancers.

“The snake is the sixth animal in the Chinese zodiac calendar so January 29 will be the first day of the year of the snake. On this day we’ll have a big welcome to the year with firecrackers by the lagoon which are traditionally lit to ward off evil spirits.

This will be on from 6 to 7pm and we will have Joe Blake from the Taipans to meet and greet the crowd,” said CADCAI’s president Lai Chu Chan.

“The snake is an animal that symbolises wisdom and transformation, the snake sheds its skin and then is reborn, so they represent resilience because it’s able to persevere, so we’re hoping this will be a year of good changes.

“We’ll have a traditional Chinese New Year banquet because the Chinese New Year is also about food and the food has special meanings, fish represents abundance, prawns happiness, so Chinese New Year is a time of reunion.

“This dinner will also be our fundraising because we’re announcing that we are looking at building Queensland’s first Chinese Culture and Heritage Centre in Cairns and will be launching the fundraising at the banquet and the state government has committed funding for stage one.

“Over the 15 days that we celebrate the end of the festival is ac-

Feast of Three Saints is 75 this year

l CAIRNS & KURANDA

THE Feast of the Three Saints marks 75 years on the Cassowary Coast in May this year.

The feast of the three saints – Alfio, Filadelfo and Cirino – is celebrated on the first Sunday in May each year all over the world.

Rosario Tornabene made a promise to God that if his wife Alfia, who was dangerously ill while giving birth to their daughter would recover, he would have the statues of the Three Saints brought to Australia. In 1950 Mr Tornabene donated the

statues of the Three Saints to St John’s Parish Church at Silkwood.

That year sparked the first celebration of the Feast of the Three Saints in Australia.

For the past 75 years the Feast of 'I Tre Santi' has been celebrated in the town of Silkwood and has been recognised as one of the largest religious and cultural festivals in Australia.

The feast has become an international event in Silkwood as people from various nationalities and religious beliefs have joined the celebrations over the years.

The Italian migrants who settled

in North Queensland were certainly pioneers.

The culture and traditions they brought to Australia to keep them in ‘touch’ with their homeland have been shared with and accepted by all Australians today.

The Feast of the Three Saints began as a predominately Sicilian Roman Catholic celebration and is important in both the religious and cultural lives of its devotees.

May 4, 2025 will mark the 75th anniversary of the feast which will be celebrated by newly-ordained Bishop Joe Caddy (AM) at Silkwood.

tually called the lantern festival at the lagoon plaza area from 5pm to 7.30pm. It’s a family event and we’ll have lion dance, dragon dance, cultural artists from the community, Chinese songs, stalls selling Chinese New Year lanterns and fireworks at 7.30pm.”

Mrs Chan said this was an opportunity for the whole Cairns community to come together in unity and wish for prosperity in 2025.

“I think for us to be able to share our culture openly and at these public, free events, and then later, when we get our culture centre built, is for people to come and realise that we can be harmonious, multicultural and be one,” she said.

“So we’re really proud to be able to host this event with funding from (the) council and state government to help us bring this event to the community in Cairns and to our international visitors.”

For a full program, information and tickets for the ticketed events, visit https://bit.ly/4hqHjk2

At the launch of the 75th anniversary of the Feast of the Three Saints last Friday were feast president Cosimo Tedesco (left), secretary Vera Zappala, Bishop Joe Caddy and executive committee member Lui Garozzo.

Tia Abbott feeds the lion with red pockets (hongbao) for good luck and prosperity.

Picture: CADCAI

Local artists in spotlight

Art society’s 77th annual exhibition

l CAIRNS CBD

| Andree Stephens

THE 77th Cairns Art Society Annual Awards exhibition begins at the Cairns Art Gallery next month, showcasing the talent of local artists from across the region.

Artist and society member Mark Willems said the exhibition was “recognition of what we do”.

“It’s a bit of exposure, because as you know, making it as an artist is extremely difficult in this world,” the winner of last year’s best oil painting said.

The event was “uniquely art from the tropics”, which would appeal to art enthusiasts whether local or visitors to the region.

“I also think it’s a testament to the society’s enduring legacy of fostering and promoting visual arts in the Far North,” Mr Willems said.

“There’s only two years the society didn’t operate and that was during the Second World War.”

Established in 1931, the Cairns Art Society is Australia’s oldest art society.

Nearly 100 years later, the not-for-profit association still aims to support local and regional artists by providing opportunities for social networking, workshops and professional development, as well as exhibiting.

Mr Willems said the awards, which were open to anyone, had become increasingly competitive, with thousands of dollars in category prize money.

“This year we had about 150 artists enter the awards, and (the society) had to scale it down to about 60 to 65,” he said.

“We just can’t fit everyone in the Cairns Art Gallery, there’s not enough space.

“We have nine awards this

year which have been very generously sponsored. A few of the prizes are $1500, then there’s a couple of $1000s, then a couple of $500s and so on.”

Sponsors include Cairns Taxis, Cazalys, the Ireland family, ADhesive Communication, MP Michael Healy and Highscan.

Categories include best acrylic, best oil, best mixed media, best drawing (digital or print), best sculpture, best water colour, people’s choice, highly commended and the society’s Judy Noller Award.

“Judy was a beautiful lady who was a member of the society for many years who sadly passed away last year.

So we are keeping her memory alive.”

The exhibition opening night is February 7. While it a free event, bookings are recommended through the Cairns Art Gallery website.

First book festival planned for Douglas

l DOUGLAS SHIRE

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

A WORLD of literature and local writing prowess is within reach for Douglas’ bookworms with the announcement of the inaugural Douglas Shire Book Festival coming to Mossman and Port Douglas this August.

Festival president, author and founder of Bowerbird Publishing Crystal Leonardi said this had been a project in the making since 2023.

“2023 was the first year I attended the Cairns Tropical Writers Festival and I came away from it wishing we had an event like that north of Cairns, something closer to home,” she said.

“In 2024 with some Bowerbird authors and friends we said: ‘Wouldn’t it be incredible if we could do something on a smaller scale with just our

local authors’, rather than headliners and international authors – which is what CTWF does best – and find a happy middle ground, something relaxed.

“As a small business owner, I wasn’t prepared to fund this brandnew venture myself but I did apply for some funding through grants and we finally received the Douglas Shire RADF grant in August or September of last year.”

The first Douglas Shire Book Festival will take place at the Mossman Community Hall on Saturday, August 2 and at the Port Douglas Community Centre on Sunday, August 3 to make the most of the people coming out of the Mossman and Port Douglas markets.

“We’re hoping to get the extra traffic through the halls before and after the markets. The halls will be filled with market stalls, we’ll have entertainers, food and beverage vans and

a very casual and laid-back atmosphere where people can come and speak to the authors,” Ms Leonardi said.

“We will have panels and author talks – approximately six for the whole day – and we just want to keep it casual and it will be a free event for the community, which is really exciting, because it means people can go on both days and we’re really focusing on local talent.

“We are accepting expressions of interest from authors across Australia, but we ideally would like to keep it Queensland, if not North Queensland authors.”

Ms Leonardi said some internationally award-winning authors were keen to take part.

For more information, visit https://bit.ly/4anc9Yu, for expressions of interest email douglasshirebookfestival@gmail. com

Elina Isabella is a finalist in the art society awards. The exibition runs until March 9. Picture: Cairns Art Society

Shire

The Douglas Shire Book Festival committee (from left) Sam Woodgarth, Chantal Munro, Jancy-Leigh Marrinon, Douglas Shire Mayor Lisa Scomazzon, Rob Hubbard, Robyn Ross and Georgie Montague. Absent: Crystal Leonardi. Picture: Supplied

Fanning and Dempsey launch show

Music icons join forces

l EDGE HILL

TWO of Australia’s most celebrated musicians – Bernard Fanning and Paul Dempsey –have joined forces to create the extraordinary Fanning Dempsey National Park.

With their debut album ‘The Deluge’ and a string of electrifying performances, the duo has crafted a sound that has to be experienced live.

Mr Fanning, former frontman of Powderfinger, and Mr Dempsey, the creative force behind Something for Kate, are no strangers to success.

Between them, they boast nine No.1 albums, millions of record sales and an astonishing array of accolades. Yet this collaboration is not about revisiting past glories. Instead, it’s a fearless leap into uncharted musical terrain.

“We agreed straight away there’s no point doing some-

thing together if it’s going to be what people think it’s going to be,” Mr Dempsey said.

“It’s not the two of us with acoustic guitars singing campfire songs,” he said.

“Instead, we’ve embraced a bold sonic ethos, shifting from guitar-driven rock to an adventurous palette of synths, robotic rhythms and experimental textures.”

Tracks like lead single ‘Disconnect’ and the title track ‘The Deluge’ showcase a fearless willingness to push boundaries, weaving together ethereal synths, pounding drums and striking saxophone bursts.

Their shared love for the sounds of their youth – think David Bowie, Duran Duran and Depeche Mode – has inspired a fresh direction.

Eschewing their Aussie rock roots, they’ve crafted a soundscape that blends nostalgia with innovation, channelling the

spirit of ‘new romanticism’ with modern-day energy.

Following the success of their sold-out 2024 headline tour and a dazzling performance on ABC’s NYE broadcast, Fanning Dempsey National Park is taking their music on the road once again with The Deluge 2025 Regional Tour playing in Cairns at the iconic Tanks Arts Centre on May 1.

For fans of these legendary artists, this is more than a concert – it’s an invitation to witness two of the nation’s finest musical minds breaking new ground and redefining what collaboration can mean.

Prepare to step into Fanning Dempsey National Park, where the journey is as exciting as the destination.

Fanning Dempsey National Park is at Tanks Arts Centre, Thursday May 1.

Tickets available from www.ticketlink.com.au

The Great British Songbook

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

MONDAY 3 MARCH

Great Women of Country

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

MONDAY 31 MARCH

From Stage to Screen

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

MONDAY 2 JUNE

For the Love of Tony & Friends

Chris Lloyds sings Tony Bennet

MONDAY 11 AUGUST

Wonder

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

MONDAY 13 OCTOBER

Home for Christmas

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

MONDAY 1 DECEMBER

Paul Dempsey (left) and Bernard Fanning are bringing their unique show to Cairns. Picture: Cybele Malinowski

WHAT’S ON

JJJ HOTTEST 100 @ AJ HACKET SKYPARK

l SAT JAN 25TH, ALL DAY TILL 6:00PM

Join us for the boldest and bravest day of the year as we crank up Triple J’s Hottest 100 countdown and celebrate with epic jumps, vibrant outfits, and loads of energy!

• Dress to impress: rock your brightest boardshorts or standout swimwear for a chance to win prizes for the best jumps and hottest outfits

• Free bus service: we’ve got your ride covered

• Find out more and book here - www.skyparkcairns.com

• Happy hour: 1:00pm–2:00pm

Free entry, family friendly. Come ready to jump, sip, and vibe as we make this the most unforgettable Hottest 100 celebration yet!

FAMILY FUN DAY @ MUNRO MARTIN PARKLANDS

l SUN JAN 26TH, 5:00PM

This year’s FREE Australia Day event features an incredible line up of local talent and promises unforgettable performances. From face painting, games and loads of activities for the little ones, there’s something for everyone. Get in early to grab a free snag at the sausage sizzle, or enjoy the range of food trucks offering delicious bites, to keep the whole family happy. And don’t forget that Monday is a public holiday, so you can enjoy the festivities without worrying about an early start the next day!

5.00pm–5.30pm – Australia Day Awards Ceremony

5.30pm–9.00pm – Free Family Concert

TRIVIA NIGHT @ BROTHERS LEAGUES CLUB

l SAT FEB 1ST, 6:00PM-10:00PM

Join us for a night of fun, laughter, and knowledge at the Cairns Central Travel “MAD ABOUT COUCH Trivia Night”! Hosted by the Rotary Club of Cairns West, gather your friends, test your trivia skills, all while raising funds for a great cause. Book your spot now and be part of a night that celebrates community spirit and supports those in need! Tables of 8 – no need to book an entire table, you can join any open table.

Meals are available at an additional cost. The formalities will commence at 6:45pm for the Trivia to promptly start at 7:00pm. A bar will be operating within the function room.

PHOTOJOURNALISM @ THE COURTHOUSE

l FRI JAN 24TH, 9:30AM

An Anthology of Australian Photojournalism by Head On Foundation, Curated by Moshe Rosenzveig OAM and Brian Cassey.

A celebration of Australian photojournalism, Paper Tigers features sixty images from sixty of the best Australian photojournalists. The need for truthful journalism has never been more dire. It is through the lens of these photographers that we understand and experience much of the world’s events. Look back at the most critical moments through recent Australian history, and the images by which we remember them.

Image: Levi and Keneisha, Floating in the clay pan, Wiluna Mission, WA, by Martine Perret.

NATURE UNVEILED @ THE TANKS

l FRI JAN 24TH, 9:00AM-4:30PM (EXHIBITION)

These workshops are a part of Sue Schreiber and Glenis Lawler’s exhibition Nature Unveiled, exploring the interplay between the natural world and the artists’ love for the decorative, capturing the beauty and complexity of their surroundings. In the workshops, you will learn to abstract photographs of plant species in the Ciarns Botanic Gardens into line and colours to create patterns from nature. Workshops run from 10am–12pm each Saturday throughout the term of the exhibition. See www.tanksartscentre.com for more details.

Cost: $30 (includes materials).

Bookings: 0438 139 045 / sue@suecreatesart.com

TIM ELLIS @ CAIRNS ART GALLERY

l SAT JAN 25TH, 10:00AM

As a painter and former art director for international film productions, Tim Ellis deploys the techniques, tools and mediums used for scenic art to make large paintings. In composing a work, his painter’s eye selects one fleeting moment to become a canvas.

In ‘Glimpses’, Tim Ellis presents the moments in life that arrest his penetrating eye.

The exhibition opening is Sat Jan 25th, 2:30pm. Free entry, with RSVP essential.

Image: Tim ELLIS ‘Saturday, 4pm - Watching the Gate’, 2024 acrylic on canvas, Courtesy of the artist.

GIG Guide

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

FRIDAY 24TH

Elixir Music House The Blues Healers, 7:30am

Lions Den Hotel U3, 9:00am

Dunwoody’s Phoebe Jacobs, 4:00pm

Salt House Pauly P, 5:00pm

Ellis Beach Bar & Grill Cam Kettle Duo, 5:30pm

Edge Hill Cairns Bowls Club The Vibez, 6:00pm

Surf Club Palm Cove Lexi & Waha, 6:00pm

Trinity Beach Sports Club Dave Cooke, 6:00pm

Boardwalk Social Tessa Devine, 6:30pm

Cazalys Cairns Carrizma, 6:30pm

Brothers Leagues Club Innisfail Mark Nugent, 7:00pm

Gilligan’s Magic Men, 7:00pm (ticketed)

Mt Molloy Hotel Miss Wendy and Ben, 7:00pm

The Pier Bar DJ Jackz, 7:30pm

Rattle’N’Hum Palm Cove Bourban Gorillas, 8:00pm

Salt House DJ Matt Caseli, 8:00pm

The Pier Bar Nightshift, 8:00pm

Rattle’N’Hum Cairns GTA, 8:30pm

BAR36 Tony George Band, 9:00pm

P.J.O’Brien’s Cairns Big Noise, 9:30pm

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

SATURDAY 25TH

Yorkeys Knob Boating Club Two Dogs Music, 3:00pm

Salt House Andrea & Louie, 5:00pm

Ellis Beach Bar & Grill ICARO, 5:30pm

Crown Hotel The Vibez, 6:00pm

Trinity Beach Sports Club Grey Area, 6:00pm

Boardwalk Social Zdenek, 6:30pm

Cazalys Cairns Kickstart, 6:30pm

Elixir Muic House Pelicana + Driftwood, 7:00pm

The Pier Bar DJ Dyzzie, 7:30pm

Paddy’s Irish Pub Seachange, 8:00pm

Rattle’N’Hum Palm Cove Janna Mercedes, 8:00pm Red Beret Simmo, 8:00pm

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

Rattle’N’Hum Cairns Drew Boy Duo, 8:30pm

BAR36 Tony George Band, 9:00pm

P.J.O’Brien’s Cairns Big Noise, 9:30pm

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

SUNDAY 26TH (AUSTRALIA DAY)

Cazalys Cairns Rowly Band, 10:00am

Lions Den Hotel Nelson & Linda, 10:30am

Brothers Leagues Club Innisfail Richie Odo, 1:00pm Cairns RSL INFINITY DUO, 1:00pm

Daintree Village Hotel Shannon Hunter, 1:00pm

Ellis Beach Bar & Grill Josh Kenwright, 1:00pm Red Beret Harmonique, 1:30pm

Dunwoody’s Amber McIntosh, 2:00pm Surf Club Palm Cove Stan Stone, 2:00pm

Edge Hill Cairns Bowls Club The Vibez, 2:30pm

Barrier Reef Tavern Dave Dusch, 3:00pm

Rattle’N’Hum Palm Cove Andrea & Louie, 3:00pm Boardwalk Social Groove Therapy, 4:00pm O’Sheas Gone Troppo !, 4:00pm

The Pier Bar DJ Zaccu, 4:30pm

Paddy’s Irish Pub Wait a While, 5:00pm

Salt House Anais Campbell, 5:00pm

The Pier Bar Flavour, 5:00pm

BAR36 Tony George Band, 5:30pm

Rattle’N’Hum Cairns Katie Richards, 6:00pm

Gilligan’s The Vibez, 7:30pm

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

Take a minute... Puzzles for you

Weekly Horoscopes

Be careful when dealing with female members of your family. You might find it difficult to control your emotions. You can accomplish a lot if you put some effort into household duties or redecorating plans. You will attract new love interests.

CROSSWORD

Now is the time to concentrate on building a strong financial future for your family. Do not let in-laws upset you. Real estate and joint financial ventures will be profitable. Be prepared to take care of the issues at hand.

You could be blind to the defects of those you love. You will meet new romantic partners if you get involved in seminars or travel. Try to keep ahead of the game. Acceptance will be necessary.

Sign up for seminars that will expand your business awareness. Your determination may make you a little overbearing when dealing with others. Don’t overreact to someone’s advances. Short trips will be educational.

Opportunities to get ahead will be evident. Make some notes regarding the changes that you should make. You may want to make changes that will turn your entertainment room into a real family affair. Catch up on overdue phone calls and correspondence.

You will need to work diligently in order to accomplish even the smallest amount. Try not to donate to organisations if you can hardly afford to take care of yourself. Call a good friend. You have done all you can to sort things out on a personal level.

Drastic changes regarding your personal attitude are evident. Organise all the responsibilities that have to be attended to and make sure everyone knows what to do. It’s time to get yourself back on track. Unexpected events may upset your routine.

You may have a rather hectic day due to events that children are involved in. Do not sign your life away. Take care of the needs of elders in your family. You could expand your circle of friends if you get involved in unusual activities.

Think about starting your own small business. You may want to look into warm vacation spots. Try to mix business with pleasure while travelling. Make sure that you have all the pertinent facts before taking action.

You may face difficulties with someone you live with. Staying in one spot might feel restrictive. Avoid starting anything unless you’re fully committed. Brunch, a walk, or a quiet dinner can strengthen your relationship.

specific area of public policy (8)

31. a life-threatening condition caused by the body’s extreme response to an infection (6)

DOWN

1. to prepare for battle (8)

2. a 2003 psychological thriller film about a woman who becomes involved in a mysterious relationship while investigating a series of violent killings in New York City (2,3,3)

3. a 1997 comedy film starring Jim Carrey, who plays a lawyer who is unable to tell a lie for 24 hours (4,4)

5. a 2019 drama film about a father struggling to connect with his troubled son (3,3)

6. a type of refrigerated truck used for transporting goods that need to be kept cold (6)

7. a young foreign person, typically a woman, who helps with household chores and childcare in exchange for room and sometimes a salary (2,4)

You will need a little competition this week. Get involved in activities that will stretch your stamina. You may be able to impart knowledge that’s innovative to those searching for a new angle. Pamper yourself for a change. New projects may lead you into a dead end.

and relatives may be hard to take this week. Use your creative flair. Try to stay calm and understand both sides of the situation.

mammal (8)

29. a long, narrow cut (6)

30. a government department responsible for a

8. not in a romantic relationship (6)

12. to deny a statement (7)

15. a 2004 horror film about a man who finds himself trapped in a room with another person and must follow twisted rules in order to survive (3)

16. a substance in a gaseous state (3)

18. a 1979 drama film about a factory worker who becomes a union organizer to fight for better working conditions at a textile factory in the Southern United States (5,3)

19. a 2004 British drama film about a young boy who discovers a bag full of money just before the UK is set to switch to the Euro (8)

20. a 1995 teen comedy film loosely based on Jane Austen’s “Emma,” starring Alicia Silverstone as Cher Horowitz (8)

22. a 1996 slasher film starring mysterious killer, known as “Ghostface.” (6)

23. a term referring to the rear part of a ship (6)

24. a literary term referring to an abrupt shift from the serious to the trivial (6)

25. a way of doing something or behaving (6)

Real Estate

Daintree property offers lifestyle change as well as commercial enterprises

Treehouse rainforest escape

treehouse complete with private pontoon and a permit to operate commercial ventures, such as fishing or crocodile tours, has been listed for just $550,000 in the Daintree.

The 2ha property overlooks Barrats Creek, a tributary of the Daintree River, and is across from the Daintree Eco Lodge and minutes from the iconic Daintree National Park.

David Cotton of Raine and Horne Port Douglas/Mossman said it was “a dream retreat” at 3198 Mossman Daintree Rd, Daintree.

“Nestled in the heart of the World Heritage-listed Daintree rainforest, this exceptional riverfront property offers a rare chance to own a secluded haven,” he said.

“Surrounded by lush greenery and the calming sounds of nature, the home seamlessly combines architectural elegance with the natural beauty of its surroundings.

“This beautifully crafted timber pole home integrates natural elements to create a serene and inviting atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and peace.

“The property features expansive outdoor spaces, ideal for fishing, entertaining or unwinding in the midst of the

rainforest’s beauty. With direct access to the Daintree’s rich flora and fauna, this property is a paradise for nature lovers. Explore jungle trails or simply bask in the sights and sounds of the wilderness from your own backyard.

“Overlooking Barrats Creek, a tributary of the Daintree River, the property offers a tranquil escape where you can connect with nature and enjoy peaceful surroundings.

“Whether you dream of a private residence, boutique holiday retreat, or wellness sanctuary, this property offers endless possibilities.

“The vast land provides space for development while preserving the area’s natural charm. A current permit allows for commercial ventures such as fishing or crocodile tours from your private pontoon.”

The listing notes the property was flooded in 1996 and the recent unprecedented 2023 floods. The nearby Daintree Village was cut off for a week with no power, water or phone communication from December 13-19 following the record breaking floods across the Far North in 2023.

During that time the village received 1921mm of rain and the Daintree Rver peaked at 15m high on December 18. Contact Mr Cotton on 0417 709 667.

This Daintree treehouse has a private pontoon and a permit for fishing or croc tours. Picture: Raine and Horne

Motoring

BMW tops luxury segment

German importer hits No.1 – well ahead of arch rivals Mercedes Benz and Audi

l SALES REPORT

| Nick Dalton

BMW has reaffirmed its leadership as Australia’s top-selling premium automotive brand for the second consecutive year, recording 26,341 new vehicle registrations in 2024 – the second best year for the brand.

Sales were up 0.6 per cent by 157 units. Second place Mercedes-Benz was 17.8 per cent down (4326 units) to 19,989. Audi was third on 15,333 – a fall of 19.65 per cent (3706). In fourth was Lexus, a decrease of 10. 2 per cent (1550) to 13,642. Volvo was fifth on 8898, a drop of 20 per cent (2230). Sixth-place Porsche had healthy growth of 16.1 per cent (977) to 7029.

A BMW Australia spokeswoman said the brand outperformed its closest competitor by more than 6000 vehicles.

“BMW’s positive results, not only secure its premium leadership position, but also underscores the brand’s enduring appeal in the market,” she said.

“A key driver in this success was the X sports activity vehicle (SAV) model range, which accounted for 62 per cent of total sales, with 16,491 registrations.

“The BMW X1 was the brand’s best-selling model for the second year running, with 4536 vehicles delivered to customers. This was followed by the X3 with 3374 units and the X5 with 3157 units. It was also a year that saw a record achievement for BMW’s X7 and 7 Series flagship models.

“The brand’s BEV line-up saw significant growth in 2024, accounting for 29.6 per cent of total BMW sales. A recordbreaking 7787 BEVs were registered, marking the highest EV sales since BMW began selling EVs in Australia in 2014, securing an 8.5 per cent share of the EV market.

“The iX1 was the top-selling electric vehicle with 2618 units sold, followed by the i4 with 2062 units, the iX2 with 1280 units and the iX3 with 1092.

“Australia also remains one of

the strongest markets for BMW M performance models, further emphasising the brand’s diverse product appeal.

A total of 5631 M models sold, an increase of 15 per cent compared with 2024 and representing a 21.4 per cent sales share of total BMW sales compared with the previous year.

Chief executive officer Wolfgang Buechel said “a company’s success doesn’t rely on just one factor, but rather a combination of responsible actions and a dedicated team driving progress”.

“While our product range is central to what we sell, our success also hinges on the innovation that defines our brand,” he said.

“This ensures that we continually evolve and transform our business.

“Equally important are the people who make it all possible – my team, our dealer network and our valued customers – and the way we position and promote our brand, all while acting as a responsible corporate citizen.”.

BMW Australia chief executive officer Wolfgang Buechel. Picture: BMW Australia

Cairns Local

al with the publisher for publication, approving or authorizing of the publication of any material INDEMNIFY the publisher, it’s Directors, employees and their agents against all demands, claims, costs, expenses, proceedings and damages wholly or partially arising directly or indirectly in relation with the publication of the material without limiting the generality, indemnify all associated in relation to libel, defamation, infringement of copyright, slender of title, infringement of trademarks or publication titles, breach of trade practices or fair trading legislation, unfair competition, violation of privacy, confidential information, royalty rights, licenses or other property rights and thus WARRANT that all material complies with relevant laws and that its publication will not give rise to claims or liabilities to the publisher, directors, employees and agents, and without limiting the generality that nothing is in breach of the Trade Practices Act 1974 or the Copyright Act 1968, the Fair Trading Act 1987 or the Consumer Protection, Defamation and Sale of Goods Legislation of the States and Territories or infringes the right of any person.

Advertising Conditions

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The placing or positioning of an advertisement within the requested classification is at the discretion of Cairns Local News, except where agreed upon by the publisher. The monetary level of advertising is based upon the frequency used within the period of the order. The term may vary from three months to one year. The word “Advertisement” will be used on advertising copy which in the opinion of the publisher resembles editorial. The terms set out above are subject to change without notification at the discretion of the publisher.

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Advertising Code

Local News Cairns

Cairns Local News collects personal information to assist us in providing goods

If you would prefer us not to do so, please write to

Gent, 73 years young, 180cm tall, early riser. I live at Clifton Beach and would like to meet a lady friend for company. I enjoy beach and bush walks, swimming, reading and travel.

Please text or phone 0417 208

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-7pm Edmonton: Thursdays, 12pm-1pm • Kuranda: Mondays, 11am-12pm

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

a position vacant you need to fill? Call Amelie at Cairns Local News on 4031 7678 or email admin@cairnslocalnews.com.au Classie deadline is 4pm every Wednesday.

Should you need to cancel an advertisement campaign, please advise in writing 7 days prior to publication. Should you need to cancel an existing advertisement, please call the office on 4031 7678 before the weekly deadline:

Display Ads: 5:00pm Tuesdays

Classifieds: 4:00pm Wednesdays

Another method of cancellation is by emailing: admin@cairnslocalnews.com.au

Friday January 24th

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

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

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

Rusty’s Markets: Grafton St, Cairns, 05:00-16:00

Saturday January 25th

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

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

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

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

Rusty’s Markets: Grafton St, Cairns, 05:00-16:00

Yungaburra Markets: Bruce Jones Market Grounds, 07:30-12:30

Sunday January 26th

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

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

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

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

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

Tumoulin Country Markets: Tumoulin Railway Station, 08:00-12:00

Elite players join the Pride

Trio of talent who signed up for 2025 BMD Premiership season to live in Cairns

l NRL

THE Kenfrost Homes Northern Pride has signed up Shellie Long, Jairel Martin-Savage and Samara Luta for the 2025 BMD Premiership season.

Hailing from Kurrimine Beach, Ms Long’s rugby league journey is a testament to her dedication and talent.

She began her career playing junior football with the Innisfail Leprechauns before progressing through the Northern Pride’s elite pathways, showcasing her skill and determination at every level.

Her accomplishments on the international stage include representing Papua New Guinea at the 2021 Women’s Rugby League World Cup, where she played a key role for the PNG Orchids.

In 2023, she made her NRLW debut with the North Queensland Cowboys and has since amassed 11 NRLW

games, earning a reputation as a tenacious and skilled competitor.

“I’m thrilled to return to the Northern Pride for the 2025 season,” Ms Long said.

“This is where my rugby league journey began and I’m excited to represent my home region and give back to the club that helped shape my career,” she said.

“I look forward to sharing my experience, competing at the highest level, and contributing to the Pride’s success in the 2025 BMD Premiership.”

Head coach Colin Wilkie said Ms Long was “an exceptional player with a strong connection to the Northern Pride and the Far North Queensland community”.

“Her experience in the NRLW and on the international stage will be invaluable to our squad,” he said. “We are proud to welcome her home and excited to see the impact she

will have both on and off the field.”

Ms Martin-Savage, a 20-year-old rising star, has already made significant strides in her rugby league career.

Recently signed to the North Queensland Cowboys NRLW elite squad, she has established herself as one of the brightest young talents in the game.

The Townsville junior is now relocating to Cairns to join the Northern Pride and further her development as a dynamic halfback.

In 2024, she capped off an outstanding season by leading the Centrals Tigers to a premiership in the Townsville competition, demonstrating her skill, composure, and leader-

ship on the field.

Her performances have earned her recognition as a player with a bright future in the game.

“I’m really excited to join the Northern Pride for the 2025 season,”

Ms Martin-Savage said.

“This is a fantastic opportunity to continue my growth as a player and to contribute to the success of the team,” she said.

“I’m looking forward to representing the Pride, embracing the Cairns community and being part of a competitive and supportive environment.”

Mr Willkie said Ms MartinSavage was a significant addition to the squad.

“Jairel is an exciting young talent with a great skill set and

a strong work ethic. Her experience as a premiership-winning halfback and her potential to excel at the highest levels make her a perfect fit for the Northern Pride,” he said.

“We are thrilled to have her join our club and look forward to seeing her thrive in the BMD Premiership.”

Samara Luta, a powerhouse forward with a wealth of experience at the BMD Premiership level, is set to bring her explosive playing style to Pride.

Recently signed to the North Queensland Cowboys NRLW elite squad, she has established herself as a formidable force in the game.

In 2024, Ms Luta played a pivotal role in the Centrals Tigers’ premiership-winning season in the Townsville competition, showcasing her strength, determination, and leadership on the field.

Now relocating to Cairns, she is eager to continue her

rugby league journey with the Northern Pride and contribute to the team’s success in the upcoming season.

“I’m excited to join the Northern Pride for 2025,” Ms Luta said.

“This is a great opportunity to take the next step in my career, represent the Pride, and immerse myself in the Cairns community.

“I’m looking forward to bringing my experience and energy to the team and helping us achieve our goals this season.”

Mr Willkie said Ms Luta was “an exceptional forward who plays with intensity and passion”.

“Her experience at the BMD level and her success in 2024 highlight her ability to compete at the highest level,” he said.

“We are delighted to welcome her to the Pride and are confident she will make a significant impact both on and off the field.”

Shellie Long hails from Kurrimine Beach. Jairel Martin-Savage is relocating from Townsville.

Samara Luta has a wealth of BMD experience.

Coach Colin Wilkie.

Exciting darts comp in tropics

l DARTS

| Andree Stephens

CAIRNS will be getting the “full darts experience,” when it hosts the PDC ANZ Premier League 2025 Darts Competition at the convention centre this year.

Tickets are on sale now for the event, considered the biggest darts tournament to head to Australia and New Zealand.

“This is a huge development for professional darts in Australia and New Zealand and the introduction of the PDC ANZ Premier League is an exciting moment for us,” PDC chief executive Matt Porter said.

Elite players from the Australian and New Zealand circuit will compete in October and November for the tournament title, and the winner will also secure a coveted place in the 2025/26 World Darts Championship in London in December.

Organisers said they were hoping fans would get into to the spirit of “sport’s biggest party” and “dress up, grab your mates and witness world-class darts action live”, for some darts downunder.

“We’re wanting to encourage the next generation of stars to emulate the likes of Simon Whitlock, Damon Heta and Haupai Puha in making their mark at the sport’s top level, and this will be the perfect platform for them,” Mr Porter said.

“Working alongside TEG Sport, we’re also able to take big-stage darts to new regions across Australia and New Zealand, giving more fans than ever the chance to experience the unique atmosphere which our sport provides.”

The competition will be held over eight Saturdays, beginning in Cairns at the convention centre on October 4, then heading to Newcastle, Adelaide, Canberra, Hobart, Wellington and Hamilton in New Zealand, and finishing at the Nissan Arena in Brisbane.

TEG Group CEO Geoff Jones said: “We’re excited to be partnering with the PDC for this landmark series of events in Australia and New Zealand”.

General public tickets are on sale now through Ticketek.

First trial game of season will challenge Cairns rugby league team

Hunters to be ‘physical’

l NRL

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

A REFRESHED Northern Pride led by new head coach Russ Aitken is ready to take the oval for the first time in 2025 on February 14 for a trial match against the PNG Hunters.

After holding their first training sessions before Christmas, Northern Pride is back refreshed and focused as they prepare for their first game of the year against the very physical Hunters on Friday, February 14 when Mr Aitken is looking to trial combinations and prepare strategies for the season.

It’s also going to be a big day for rugby fans with the Cowboys battling the Dolphins in their first trial game right after Pride at 7pm. Over 2200 tickets have

already been sold.

“We’re feeling good, there’s still a little bit of time before the trial but the boys worked hard before Christmas and have come back in really good shape,” he said.

“The team’s progressing and we’re looking forward to the game. It should be a good event for the club with the NRL playing after which will surely be a big event, so we’re all excited.”

Mr Aitken said for this trial game he didn’t want to focus on the result but instead focus on the team’s synergy and performance.

“We have a lot of new faces this pre-season so that has been, and still is, a big focus for us as a group to make sure we’re connecting really well and we’ve done that,” he said.

“We had an opposing session against the Cowboys up in

Atherton over the weekend and we’re happy with where we’re at, whilst knowing we’ve still got a long way to go to be where we want to be.

“The boys are working hard. In rugby league you have to work hard and they’re doing that. There’ll probably be subtleties of change in the way we want to play this year but at the end of the day the boys know rugby league and what it takes to win at this level.

“A trial is a trial, so I’m not worried about the results, I’m more worried about the way we play, so it’ll be a simple first game, always trying new combinations and looking at the way we play rather than the result.”

Mr Aitken said that one of the strengths of this renewed Northern Pride was its forward pack and offensive game.

“Our forward pack is our

strength. I’d say we definitely have got a real strong, physical team but we’ve also picked up a few good signings in the halves and back line, but our strength is in our power game and forward pack and I’m looking forward to seeing that in action,” he said.

“The Hunters are a very physical team as well, but we’re not worried. Being our first game, we’re focused on ourselves. It’s all about us and the way we play.”

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Northern Pride’s head coach Russ Aitken (centre) said the team was in good shape and ready to tackle their first game of the year. Pictures: Supplied

Northern Pride is training hard to face a tough rival – the PNG Hunters.

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