Cairns Local News July 26 2024

Local News Cairns

Casino’s new era

Trust’s first chairwoman and 165 years on-site experience

l CAIRNS CBD

| Nick Dalton

A NEW era has emerged at the Reef Casino Trust as tourism identity Wendy Morris takes over the reins as new chairwoman.

However, the Port Douglas resident and businesswoman does not want to focus on her historic appointment as the first female to head the trust.

Instead, Ms Morris has highlighted the longevity and experience of the casino senior management team which amounts to more than 165 years of experience at the hotel and casino complex.

Not only has she showered praise on the hotel-casino’s executive line-up but also the stability the 350 staff has offered the business.

“Between them there is more than a century of experience,” Ms Morris said.

They include executive director Allan Tan (29 years), hotel casino chief executive officer Paul McHenry (29), casino general manager Christine

Aylett (29), company secretary Alison Galligan (29), human resources manager Andrew Costello (17), marketing director Carol McFarlane (19) and hotel general manager Wayne Reynolds (13). New trust chief executive officer Brad Sheahon was appointed last year. Ms Morris said the business was “in a very good position moving forward”.

As the Wharf St complex undergoes a multimilliondollar repair and maintenance schedule, including a full refurbishment of the signature dome, she said the property needed the wealth of experience to get through “the challenges of 2024” and prepare for the return of international tourists in greater numbers.

She said the board and the management team were determined that the venue would retain its reputation as the “must see, must visit” place in Cairns.

“It is an icon in Cairns. Personally, to me, it is the Raffles (the legendary luxury hotel in Singapore) of Cairns,” Ms Morris said.

CONTINUED PAGE 3

l DOUGLAS SHIRE

| Nick Dalton

A PRINTED newspaper is returning to the Douglas Shire after four years.

The Douglas Gazette’s first edition is on Wednesday next week (July 31) and initially will be produced fortnightly with the aim of weekly publication in the future. It will be a sister paper to Cairns Local News and The Express on the Tablelands.

Publisher Carl Portella, who is also involved with Sentinel News in southeast Queensland, said in the lush, tropical heartland of Far North Queensland, where the vibrant greens of the Daintree meet the sparkling blues of the Coral Sea, a familiar voice was set to return.

“The Douglas Shire, a community known for its stunning natural beauty and strong community spirit, is eagerly anticipating the revival of its very own local newspaper,” he said.

CONTINUED PAGE 2

Authorised by the Queensland Government, William Street, Brisbane.

The senior executive team at The Reef Hotel Casino (from left) includes hotel general manager Wayne Reynolds, trust chief executive officer Brad Sheahon, chairwoman Wendy Morris, company secretary Alison Galligan, executive director Allan Tan and hotel casino chief executive officer Paul McHenry. Picture: Nick Dalton

Indigenous landscaper rated best apprentice in the Far North

Award winner inspires

l BENTLEY PARK

| Nick Dalton

A 25-year-old apprentice landscaper has been named Far North Queensland’s top apprentice.

Terrence Casey-Douglas was awarded the Harry Hauenschild Apprentice of the Year. He moved from Normanton to Cairns to take up his landscape construction apprenticeship with Outdoor Solutions Queensland, which was also a finalist in the small employer of the year category.

He is also a prop with rugby league club Northern Pride with 48 Hostplus Cup games under his belt and stints with Tweed Seagulls and Townsville Blackhawks.

Tropical North Queensland’s top apprentice, trainee, VET teacher and employers were announced at the 2024 Queensland Training Awards regional final earlier this month.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander student of the year Rhonda Woolla is from Aurukun and completed her Certificate IV in Pre-Hospital Emergency Medical Response while working with Rio Tinto Weipa.

Quicksilver Group, which operates from Cairns and Port Douglas, was named the region’s large employer of the year, for supporting staff training in a variety of fields, including diving, engineering, accounting and management to support their Great

Barrier Reef cruise operations.

Mr Casey-Douglas knows that sport is a key way of engaging with his community back home.

“For me and the path that I’ve taken, the best way I can encourage the next generation coming through is to get back on Country as much as they can and utilise my resources with the Pride by going back and giving back to community,” he said.

“Sport is a massive tool. The unity that it brings with everyone in the community is second to none.

“You can see how that really is a massive tool for unity and bringing communities together, celebrating and enjoying the sport and being with one another.

“It’s good for the little ones as it gives them something to aspire to. It keeps the little ones out of trouble as well. It keeps them busy.

“When I do go back and chat with the kids at school or on the footy field, I tell them nothing is going to be easy or handed to you.

“You have to have a good work ethic and be willing to put in the work to see the rewards.

“If I can be that person, be a role model, be a leader to inspire and push them to go further than I have, that would be a tick for me because it feels like I’m giving back to my community and young indigenous lads.”

For the full list of the awards visit www.cairnslocalnews.com.au

Douglas Gazette bringing local news every fortnight

From Page 1

“Under the new masthead of the Douglas Gazette, this publication marks a resurgence of local journalism in an area once bereft of its own dedicated news source,” Mr Portella said.

“For years, the region had relied on news from afar, disconnected from the immediate concerns and

triumphs of its residents. But now, the Gazette promises to fill that void.”

Mr Portella said he understood the importance of communitydriven journalism. “I believe passionately in the power of local news to inform, unite, and empower residents,” he said.

“Every community deserves a

voice, which reflects my decision to bring the Gazette back to life.

(The previous weekly newspaper was the Port Douglas and Mossman Gazette).

“Local residents have expressed enthusiasm and anticipation at the prospect of having a dedicated newspaper once again.

“From the bustling streets of

Port Douglas to the tranquil villages of Mossman and Daintree, people are eager to see their stories told, their voices heard, and their concerns addressed.

“The Gazette will be more than just headlines, it will be a platform for community stories, local events, and issues that matter most to the people of Douglas Shire.”

Nick Dalton will edit the publication, supported by journalists and contributors, including writer Peter Jackson and columnist Gary ‘Gazza’ McIlroy. The first edition will be home delivered free and subsequent editions will be $2.50 at designated outlets throughout Port Douglas, Mossman and the Daintree every second Wednesday.

Landscaper Terrence Casey-Douglas is inspiring other young Indigenous people. Picture: Supplied

Raising fashion stakes at Cairns Cup Carnival

l CAIRNS CBD

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

THE Cairns Cup Carnival is raising the fashion stakes in 2024. The highly-contested fashions of the field will be one to remember, with spring and vintage themes across two weekends.

This year the Cairns Jockey Club, with long-term fashion partner Myer Cairns, is upping the ante with a fresh vintage theme that will test the local fashion competitors on August 17 and 24.

In 2024, the Red Beret Hotel Cairns Cup Carnival’s Myer Cairns Style Stakes were themed to inspire an even higher standard of entries than in previous years and $30,000 is up for grabs in prizes.

Springtime is the theme contested for contemporary lady of the day, classic lady of the day, best dressed and stylish couple of the day on August 17.

August 24 will be less about spring and more about charm. The theme, A Vintage Affair, will provide an exciting twist, and five more categories are up for grabs, including stylish lady of the day, classic lady of the day, stylish gentleman of the day, couple of the day, and millinery award.

Cairns Cup Carnival ambas-

sadors Tina and Brett Cahill have offered valuable fashion tips to contestants this year.

“We’re both really excited as the ambassadors this year for the Cairns Jockey Club’s announcement that Myer Cairns will be coming back on board as one of our major sponsors this year,” Ms Cahill said.

“We’re also excited to announce our theme this year which will be vintage, so we want everyone to think of pearls, broaches, just that classic feel that you can have a modern feel and vintage it out with a broach.

“For our vintage theme we’re not looking for florals, more lace, broaches, pearls, classic pencil skirts, burgundies, that really vintage look,” she said.

“For the men you want to go for that very classic vintage look with a classic fitted suit, vintage hats and canes,” Mr Cahill said.

“A cane would definitely be a good accessory for men and a scarf could really make for a vintage outfit,” Ms Cahill said.

“It’s fantastic to have Myer involved, today we’re dressed by Myer and they have got an amazing stock here and plenty to choose from so we’re excited for everyone to check it out.”

To register for Myer Cairns Style Stakes or nominate an entry, visit https://bit.ly/3Wwfcs9

Have your say on city

Council opens survey for community to guide the region’s

live in

l PORTSMITH

| Nick Dalton

CAIRNS residents are being asked a host of questions to help guide Cairns Regional Council’s priorities and improve services.

The council has launched the 2024 Our Cairns Survey via the council’s website (www.cairns. qld.gov.au/ourcairns) until the end of August to give residents the best chance to have their voices heard.

Residents will be asked their views on a broad range of issues, including residential green waste collection, adding fluoride to the water supply

and security patrols.

Questions include:

• How much will you be willing to pay per year to have an extra bin for green waste?

• How effective do you think the council’s CitySafe security patrols are in reducing anti-social behaviour in the CBD?

• Do you support or oppose the addition of fluoride to the city’s water supply?

• Should the council charge short term accommodation providers (such as Airbnb) more to help mitigate the housing crisis?

• Should the council increase rates on landowners who hold onto undeveloped or

underutilised land in already developed areas without making improvements?

The 2024 survey will build on the success of previous surveys in 2016 and 2020.

It will also feature a tailored Our Cairns Youth Survey through local schools to engage young voices in shaping the city’s future.

Cairns Mayor Amy Eden said everyone had an opportunity to participate, with 3000 responses to date.

“We are committed to giving all residents of Cairns a chance to actively guide (the) council’s priorities for the next four years,” she said.

“We will use the survey re-

sults to tackle some of the big issues and guide (the) council’s priorities for the next four years,” she said.

“Once complete, a research report will be published with results set to inform the next corporate plan.

“The launch of the 2024 Our Cairns Survey was a priority listed on my 100-day plan.

“Conducting this survey helps inform our operational planning, ensuring your voices are heard in shaping our city’s future.”

The 2024 survey aims to:

• Gather community insights to help shape the new corporate plan, ensuring it reflects the region residents aspire to

future

• Collect feedback on various topical issues affecting the community

• Obtain information on services provided by other levels of government, so the council can advocate effectively on behalf of residents

• Assess the council’s performance in delivering services and facilities, ensuring it meets community expectations

• Identify improvement projects within suburbs that would benefit the community

• Specifically engage with youth to understand their needs and preferences.

Future bright for CBD casino

FROM PAGE 1

“It is still renowned for the service levels and the attention to detail,” she said.

Ms Morris said the Pullman hotel was one of the best in Cairns with high levels of occupancy (90 per cent) as well as revenue per available room (REVpar) and the best fine dining restaurant in the region –Tamarind.

She said it was not a matter of if, but when, international travellers returned in growing numbers.

Ms Morris said more Japanese and Koreans were evident.

She said Tourism Tropical North Queensland and Cairns Airport were working hard to get more international tourists back, not just for the casino, but for most tour operators.

Ms Morris said the return of Cathay Pacific was critical and the Jetstar flights from New Zealand’s South Island and the new Air Asia services from Bali with connections from Europe could not be underestimated for their importance.

She said the Japanese flights operated by Jetstar had also been successful and increased visitor numbers.

Ms Morris said cruise ship passengers were drawn to the property as the ships’ casinos were not allowed to operate while at port. It is also understood the casino offers far better odds than the gaming facilities on the ships.

Increasing international tourist numbers were required for the casino’s premium play or high rollers private gaming room to open regularly.

Currently it was only open on request, depending upon the eligibility of the applicants.

Ms Morris said the trust was working on something significant for the dome which has a special place in her heart as her father John Morris first established the wildlife tourism attraction in the early 2000s before being bought out by the CaPTA Group. Last year it closed after it was apparent extensive upgrading works were needed. “There is quite a bit of work being done on the dome. We have a blank sheet of paper going forward,” she said.

Cairns Cup Carnival ambassadors Tina and Brett Cahill at Myer Cairns.

Picture: Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

Farewell Lionel Van Dorssen Another cracking show

His life was well-lived

l MOOROOBOOL

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

THE community has celebrated the life of beloved leader, beacon and businessman Lionel Van Dorssen.

On Wednesday last week the community gathered to bid farewell Mr Van Dorssen who died at the age of 90.

Known as a savvy businessman, owner of Van Dorssen’s Tobacconist and Gifts, a fierce and dedicated leader serving 12 years at the-then Cairns City Council from 1976 and a loving family man, husband and father of seven, Mr Van Dorssen was honoured and celebrated last week for his achievements.

Son Chris Van Dorssen said his father left behind a legacy of generosity and community.

“My father set the standard for shopkeepers at the time. It wasn’t only the Cairns community that relied on Van Dorssen’s, but also the Tablelands,” he said.

“He was a generous man, a people’s person.

“He had seven children, grandfather to 17 and great grandfather to eight and to this day we still all meet.

“For his community he served 12 years in council. I still remember him getting calls on the weekend from people telling him their house had flooded and they knew that they would be taken care of.

“Back then councillor was more of volunteer role than a paid role and he did it because he loved Cairns. He was also a very Catholic man who’d go to church every morning.

“In 90 years, he achieved a lot and that’s his legacy.”

Mr Van Dorssen was born in Mackay on November 14, 1933, but he moved to Cairns when he was just a baby. His family says he loved growing up in Cairns.

He was married to his wife Viv for 63 years and was a proud parent to seven children. He played a pivotal role in the success of Van Dorssen’s after taking over from his father Richard. Seizing the growth of Cairns as a tourist town, he expanded the store to offer souvenirs and giftware.

He served 12 years on the council, two of those as a deputy mayor, and presided over a significant period of development in Cairns with the opening of the international airport. He was the chairman of the North Queensland Electricity Board and served for 22 years at the Endeavour Foundation. He was awarded an OAM in recognition to his service to local and industry and government.

But Mr Van Dorssen’s most precious achievement was his family.

“My father had his family, his community and his faith and it meant everything to him,” said Chris Van Dorssen.

l PARRAMATTA PARK

WITH another successful iteration of the Cairns Show being wrapped up, the focus is now on preparations for the show’s 120th anniversary.

Despite the cold snap last week, a little over 67,000 residents crossed the gates at the Cairns Showgrounds to celebrate another year of the Cairns Show with classic entertainment like FMX shows, pole climbing, the beloved sideshow alley with two new rides and the animal shows and exhibitions.

As the show association wraps up another year of the show, the focus now turns to 2025 for the 120th anniversary of the Cairns Show.

“Although we haven’t done the last count yet, we’re up to 67,400 people which is 2000 more than last year,” said the show’s president Ian Allen.

“Our animal exhibitors are also really happy with the result this year, the dogs, the cats, the cattle and the nursery had the biggest amount of visitors this year.

“We have our post-show meeting next week where we’ll run ideas on how to improve for next year which will be our 120th show and we’ll start working on what we can do to make it a bigger and better show.”

The plans should be finalised by January next year.

Family, business and community man Lionel Van Dorssen has died aged 90. Picture: Supplied

Virgin axes Tokyo services

Airline says route ‘commercially unsustainable’ with flights to end early 2025

l AEROGLEN

| Nick Dalton

VIRGIN Australia is axing its once daily flight between Cairns and Tokyo (Haneda) from early next year due to the slow recovery of inbound visitors from Japan, which is up to 35 per cent below pre-COVID levels.

The airline first launched its Cairns-Tokyo, Haneda services in June 2023.

However, a below forecast recovery of visitors travelling from Japan to Australia due to sustained weakness in the Japanese yen, has impacted demand for the services, rendering the route commercially unsustainable.

Virgin Australia chief transformation and strategy officer Alistair Hartley said it was a difficult determination

“Our international network continues to be a central part of our strategy. Withdrawing from Cairns-Tokyo services was a tough decision, but unfortunately the recovery of inbound visitors from Japan is significantly below forecast and therefore operating our own service to Tokyo is no longer commercially viable,” he said.

“We know this is disappointing news and we are sorry for the impact this decision will have on those guests booked to travel with us from February

24, 2025. I want to acknowledge and thank the Queensland Government for its partnership in launching our Tokyo services and its ongoing support for Virgin Australia as one of the largest carriers of tourists to the Sunshine State.”

Cairns Airport chief executive officer Richard Barker said Virgin Australia’s service to Tokyo Haneda had been a popular and well-received route for locals across Tropical North

Queensland. “This is evidenced by strong outbound passenger numbers visiting Japan since the commencement of flights more than 12 months ago,” he said.

“Japan has been a slow market to recover post-COVID and this has been exacerbated by the current economic climate, including a weak yen.

“It is disappointing that these market conditions have affected the viability of Virgin Australia’s service between Cairns and

Council News Update

Watch Olympics on the Shields Street big screen

Don your green and gold and watch the Aussies go for gold this weekend on the big screen in the heart of the city as the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games get underway.

Presented in partership with the State Government, Olympics LIVE provides the chance to gather and cheer on our athletes, while marking the ‘8-Years-To-Go’ milestone before Queensand hosts the 2032 Games.

The big screen will be in Shields Street, between Abbott and Lake streets, this Saturday from 10am to 11.30pm, and Sunday from 10am to 6pm.

Looking at future growth

Council’s new Towards 2050: Shaping Cairns Directions Paper highlights key considerations for the city’s expected growth over the next three decades.

• What’s driving change in Cairns?

• How can we manage population growth in a responsible, sustainable way?

• What are our future needs for infrastructure, jobs, housing, resilience and our environment?

Explore urban growth directions and options, then complete the short survey at haveyoursay.cairns.qld.gov.au/towards2050.

numerous industry campaigns to drive demand on the Haneda service to Cairns,” he said.

“These delivered more than $5.6 million in direct sales bringing over 10,600 passengers since the service began last year.

“It is disappointing that market conditions in Japan have impacted the Haneda service, but Japan remains a key market for Tropical North Queensland, and we will continue to work closely with our partners to support inbound travel from Tokyo and Osaka.”

Tourism Minister Michael Healy said it was “disappointing Virgin had decided to cancel the Cairns-Haneda (Tokyo) route from February 2025, reportedly due to poor inbound bookings”.

“This is a commercial decision by the airline. It is understood the weak yen is a factor in Japanese people not travelling to Australia,” he said.

Jetstar’s Japanese loyalty

JETSTAR has told Cairns Local News it is happy with its services between Japan and Cairns.

“We’re continuing to see strong demand for our flights between Australia and Japan,” a Jetstar spokesman said.

“As a result of the demand, we recently launched new services between Sydney and Brisbane and Osaka, and Brisbane and Tokyo,” he said.

“Jetstar currently operates daily services between Cairns and Tokyo, and four weekly return flights between Cairns and Osaka (since 2008).”

Tokyo Haneda from February 2025.”

Tourism Tropical North Queensland chief executive officer Mark Olsen said the organisation had undertaken extensive marketing and public relations activities in the Japanese market to support the direct routes to Cairns.

“Through the International Tourism Recovery Program funding from the Federal Government, TTNQ has rolled out

Mr Healy met representatives of all four international airports – Brisbane, Cairns, Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast – on Wednesday to discuss the importance of maintaining existing Attracting Aviation Investment Fund (AAIF) supported routes.

It is understood the government is looking at the AAIF funding provided to Virgin for the Cairns-Japan route and whether any needs to be repaid.

“Jetstar has one-way fares between Cairns and Osaka from $285 (one way) and Cairns Tokyo from $316 (one way), available on Jetstar. com.”

Tourism Minister Michaerl Healey said “fortunately” there were direct Jetstar flights between Cairns and Japan.

“ … and we see a trend of Japanese tourists flying into Brisbane and then travelling on to Cairns, Whitsundays and the Gold Coast,” he said.

The Virgin Boeing 737 MAX 8 used on the Tokyo route will be deployed elsewhere. Picture: Virgin Australia

Still fighting after 50 years

l WESTCOURT

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

FIFTY years of fighting for the rights of the Far North’s seniors and battling the isolation epidemic by building a supportive community has been celebrated by the Cairns and District Senior Citizens Association In a heartwarming celebration on July 17 at the association’s hall in Gatton St, over 80 members, Cairns Mayor Amy Eden, division 7 councillor Anna Midleton and LNP candidate Yolonde Entsch gathered to celebrate the rich history of the organisation that has been building a network of senior citizens in the Far North for 50 years and advocating for better and more services for their community.

“It’s a big milestone and during my time as president (five years), we’ve had a lot of stress in getting the place functioning for what it’s supposed to function for and finally it is,” said the association’s president Alison Worell.

“We have new weight classes twice a week which meets the needs of our seniors, our book club is doing really well, and our card and board games can’t accommodate any more people.

“There are more and more men joining our association, from an 18 per cent male members we’ve pushed it to 23 per cent, and next

year we’re planning our first retreat which will be amazing.

“Loneliness is the biggest issue in the seniors, and we address that. Some of our members have lost a partner or their family, or they don’t know what to do and this is a friendly sociable space they can come to and that’s the most important thing.”

During the celebrations, Cr Eden unveiled a commemorative plaque in celebration of 50 years, invaluable members of the association were awarded, seniors band ‘Off The Record’ were also celebrated for over a decade of service and contributions, while Ms Entsch cut the 50th anniversary cake.

Cr Eden said it was a “momentous occasion, and the committee really turned on a wonderful event. Fifty years is no small feat, and they are resilient and determined and they’ve had a wonderful day today so I’m excited for them”.

“We will continue to support them, and I know they will be ap-

plying for council’s infrastructure funding grant, so we’ll make sure that this avenue for community groups is available and we have officers that support them in making these applications,” she said.

Ms Worell said that she had a set of goals for the future including getting support with technol-

ogy literacy for the elders, continuing to fight for the bus stop opposite their hall on Gatton St and government funding. “We operate with no funding from state or federal governments, so it’d be crucial for us to get that financial support because we rely on grants and the grants for seniors are very limited,” she said.

Cairns Mayor Amy Eden (left), Cairns and District Senior Citizens Association president Alison Worell and LNP candidate Yolonde Entsch.

Senior citizens’ association members Jan Sheppard (left), Heather Banach and Nina Muller.

Philippa O’Donell from FNQ Volunteers and winner of the commitment and long service award Susan Bill.

Wendy Kristofferson and Neville Hermes enjoyed the 50th birthday celebrations at Gatton St.

Les and Babs Richards and Pauline Cleill. Pictures: Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

Mural brightens up toilets

l KEWARRA BEACH

A COLOURFUL mural has transformed a toilet block at Kewarra Beach.

Local artist Violet Shaban (ART and Designer Graphics by Violet) has completed the mural at Pelican Park in Kewarra Beach, supported by Division 9 Councillor Brett Olds.

“In consultation with the Kewarra Beach community and with help from Mel Veivers, Violet drew inspiration from the blues and greens of the local sky, water and trees,” a council spokesman said.

“She was inspired to incorporate beach elements into the design when she stumbled across a pile of shells that someone had collected and left in the carpark.”

Three other sites have been selected for the ‘Neighbourhood Murals Project for 2024'.

They are:

• Babinda – Amenities block at Anzac Park, Munro St. Painting due to start this month for completion by early August

• Smithfield – Amenities block at Cairns Mountain Bike Clubhouse, 88 McGregor Rd. Painting due to start July for completion by early August

• White Rock – Amenities block at Bak Park, Progress Rd (TBC). Painting due to start August for completion by September.

For more information about the project, call 4032 6618. Requests for new mural projects can be made by visiting https://bit.ly/3SfQbyZ

No-go for fast food proposal

Housing prioritised by regional council

l MANOORA

| Nick Dalton

TWO fast food outlets proposed for Pease St at Manoora opposite Piccone’s IGA shopping centre have been knocked back by Cairns Regional Council.

The two drive-throughs on either side of Patience St, directly opposite the Edge Hill Tavern, would have taken out four dwellings.

Patona Development Pty Ltd had applied for a material change of use for the two food and drink outlets. The sites are zoned medium density residential.

The application received 61 submissions – 60 of which were against the development.

Cr Anna Middleton, whose division includes the properties, said the proposal was not appropriate on residential land, particularly when there was plenty of space available on Piccone’s IGA shopping centre site.

She said the region was in a housing crisis and the four properties already had houses on them.

Cr Middleton said the community was clearly against the development.

She said the application was outside the council’s planning scheme and the refusal was “good public policy”.

Cr Matthew Tickner said the retention of medium residential density land in the city was “most important”.

He said the properties were “perfectly positioned for medium density housing”.

Council planning director Ed Johnson said, while there was a

need for fast food outlets, there was plenty of appropriately zoned land for the development. He said it was “difficult to mitigate” the proposal with lighting, noise and traffic impacts on neighbouring residential areas.

He said the four properties were “great residential sites”. Environmental advocate and former mayoral candidate for Community First Denis Walls, who campaigned against the proposal with his division 7 candidate Renee Lees during the election campaign earlier this year, said the council had made “a good decision”.

“We are very happy it’s been knocked back,” he said.

Mr Walls said it was “clearly inappropriate” for the area which would have meant vitally-needed housing would have disappeared.

He said the city was in the midst of a housing emergency but “not a fast food outlet crisis”.

Mr Walls said door-knocking revealed the community’s opposition to the proposal, particularly when there were many other similar outlets nearby, including Dominos and McDonald’s.

Denis Walls and Renee Lees at the Pease St site in February.

Artist Violet Shaban with her colourful mural at Pelican Park’s toilet block, Kewarra Beach. Picture: Violet Shaban

Miles of smiles at JCU clinic

l SMITHFIELD

MORE than 80,000 patients in North Queensland have healthier smiles thanks to a vital service provided by James Cook University dental clinics.

JCU Dental Clinic has officially treated over 80,000 patients across its Cairns and Townsville campuses, “a remarkable milestone”, according to JCU director of clinical studies Professor John Abbott.

“It's a testament to the clinic's commitment to providing high-quality dental care and its dedication to serving the community and

providing clinical training to JCU’s dental students,” he said.

“This milestone also highlights the importance of access to affordable and specialised healthcare services, particularly in regional areas where patients may have limited access to dental care.”

The Cairns clinic first opened its doors at JCU’s Nguma-bada (Smithfield) campus in 2012, with most patients being pensioners and concession card holders.

Prof Abbott said dental students benefitted enormously from the clinics through hands-on experience, with the clinics having so far

helped produce 760 dentistry graduates – each with over 2000 hours of clinical practice.

“Student feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the clinic's learning environment, which allows them to make mistakes and learn from them in a safe and supportive atmosphere,” he said.

Retired pensioner from Yorkeys Knob and patient of JCU Dental Clinic since its inception Judy Carrol said she had an excellent experience.

• JCU is throwing the doors open of its Nguma-bada (Smithfield) campus to the public for its first in-person open day in five years, tomorrow from 10am to 2pm.

Huge rates slug for marina

Port Hinchinbrook residents to pay nearly $2000 more to regional council

l CARDWELL

| Nick Dalton

PORT Hinchinbrook residents will have to pay nearly $2000 a year more in sewerage costs than other Cassowary Coast Regional Council ratepayers. They will be slugged with $3237 per property compared to $1126 in Innisfail and $1058 at Tully and Mission Beach.

Hinchinbrook MP Nick

Dametto said “understandably, Port Hinchinbrook residents were shocked to learn that the sewage charges for the Port Hinchinbrook scheme are unfathomably high in comparison to other locations as can be seen above”.

“I am advised by (the) council that the reason for the substantial cost, that will be passed on to only those Port Hinchinbrook ratepayers who directly benefit, is the $7 million funding

shortfall for the construction of the new sewage treatment plant (STP),” he said.

“The shortfall has arisen in circumstances where construction costs and global material prices have risen exponentially and was an unforeseeable cost increase at the time of initial project planning.

“Council intends to satisfy the shortfall amount of $7m with financial borrowings. As can be seen from the council budget, re-

payment of the borrowings will be passed on to those residents and ratepayers who will directly benefit from the new STP. This will amount to residential ratepayers incurring an additional $1902 per year in their rates for sewerage.”

Mr Dametto said many would not be able to afford the increase.

He said he and the council had been lobbying Premier Steven Miles and Local Government and Public Works Minister Mea-

ghan Scanlon for funds to reduce the margin of the shortfall.

A council spokesman said all sewerage was paid for by the properties connected to that scheme.

“Sewerage costs are not levied as part of the general rates,” he said.

“At the local government meeting in June 2023, council resolved to secure the debt funding of $7m, and endorse the principle of ‘user pays’ and the

beneficiaries of the Port Hinchinbrook sewerage scheme would meet full cost recovery through amended sewerage charges to commence July 1, 2024.

“Consultation with Port Hinchinbrook residents was undertaken in October 2020 when it was indicated that the expected sewerage utility charge could be upwards of $3000 per year.

“The reason for this charge is due to the small number of users within the scheme.”

Fourth year JCU Dentistry students Jack McCamley (left) and Meaghan Mannix, JCU director of clinical studies Professor John Abbott and patient Sharon Rowe at the dental clinic in Cairns.

Green space to be bulldozed for multi-storey car park near Cairns Hospital

‘Anti-social’ park to be razed

l CAIRNS NORTH

| Nick Dalton

A PUBLIC park and playground

at Cairns North is to disappear and be replaced with a multilevel car park as part of the $50 million Far North Health and Innovation Precinct (Dugurrdja Precinct) being built by James Cook University.

Cairns Regional Council

has agreed to relinquish trusteeship of Apex Park so it can be acquired by JCU as well as a neighbouring property in Charles St opposite the precinct which is under construction.

The Cairns Tropical Enterprise Centre (CTEC) is due for completion in 2025 and a 32bed Cairns Hospital Surgical Unit is expected to be finished in 2026.

Cr Rob Pyne, whose divi-

$200,000

sion 5 includes the park, told Wednesday’s council meeting that, while he was seen to be “green and sustainable”, the carpark was “much-needed” in the area near the hospital.

He said he received many complaints from residents and ratepayers about the difficulty of parking near the hospital.

Mayor Amy Eden, who was the divisional 5 councillor up until the March 16 elections,

said she too received many complaints about car parking spaces which should not be a local government issue as the hospital was owned and run by the state government.

She said many local businesses were also suffering because the widening of Sheridan St was resulting in the loss of more car parks.

Cr Eden said the park was not used by most people because it

had become the site of “antisocial behaviour”.

She said she hoped the multistorey car park’s wall facing Sheridan St would feature a mural or attractive lighting.

ongoing incidents”.

A council report said a meeting in 2021 was told the area “had previously been the location of ongoing community safety concerns. As such an alternative use of the site had the potential to reduce the risk of

“This view was also supported by (the) council’s 2017 land review which identified ‘no community need for the land’ and recommended council resign as trustee of this reserve,” it said.

“This review took into consideration the substantial amount of other open public space in close proximity to the park.”

suite aims to ease pain of pregnancy loss

l CAIRNS NORTH

| Isaac Colman

STUNNING artwork, comfort, and a private space have been offered by Cairns Hospital to families dealing with pregnancy loss as a result of community generosity.

Repainted in a gentle colour palette, the completely refurbished space was equipped with a shining mural, alongside various purpose-specific clinical equipment.

Allowing partners to stay and sleep in comfort with mum, the birthing bed has been replaced with a clinically-suitable double bed. A collaboration between

the Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation and local businesses, artists and hospital staff, the $200,000 project’s funds were raised through donations from events and businesses, such as the 2023 Alive Pharmacy Warehouse Ride for Isabel, christmas wrapping at Cairns Central, Earlville Shopping Town and DFO Cairns, Nu Nu Restaurant's Melbourne Cup 2023 and KenFrost Homes.

Foundation chief executive officer Gina Hogan said funds were raised thanks to a generous community.

“Pregnancy loss is more common than we realise,” Mrs Hogan said. “Many of us know someone who has gone through

this difficult time,” she said. “By coming together as a community to contribute, we can make a truly special difference for those affected.”

Contributing artist Hayley Gillespie said the animals created for the maternity ward were riddled with hidden patterns, relating to their habitats or food sources.

“They have names reflecting their breeding, nesting and traits,” she said.

“These animal families represent the care and responsibility involved in mothers, parenting and community, the human experience of being part of the circle of life.”

14-16, 2024

Cairns Hospital midwifery department staff (from left) Lyn Graham, Mary McGuinness, hospital foundation chief executive officer Gina Hogan and Jo Taylor. Picture: Supplied

CAIRNS REGION

EDMONTON

Piccones My Village Bakehouse Post Office

ELLIS BEACH Ellis Beach Bar & Grill

FRESHWATER Limberlost Garden Centre Café

GORDONVALE

Cignall Gordonvale Peak Mobility & Rehab

SUPA IGA Gordonvale United Fuel Gordonvale

HOLLOWAYS BEACH Holloways Beach Spar

KEWARRA BEACH

Friendly Grocer Kewarra Park

MACHANS BEACH Machans Beach Store

MANOORA Tosca’s Pizzeria & Bar

MANUNDA

Brothers Leagues Club Cairns

Byrnes Meats Café Mateo

Cignall Reservoir Rd N News Agency Raintrees

MOUNT SHERIDAN

Friendly Grocer Mount Sheridan Mount Sheridan Newspower

PALM COVE

O’Donnells Bar

Palm Cove Deli

Petes Place Surf Club Palm Cove

PORTSMITH

Cairns Cruising Yacht Squadron

Cairns Regional Council

Food4u Catering

Portsmith Quality Meats United Woree

REDLYNCH

Redlynch Central Shopping Centre

SMITHFIELD

Nextra Marlin Coast Newsagency

Smithfield Shopping Centre

SPAR Express Campus

TSG Smithfield

STRATFORD

Jonsson’s Farm Market

Stratford General Store

TRINITY BEACH

The Beach House at Trinity Trinity Beach Night Owl

TRINITY PARK

Marlin Coast Neighbourhood Centre

Reed Rd Store & Takeaway

WESTCOURT

Cazaly’s Cairns

Cignall Westcourt

DFO Cairns - Info Desk

Freechoice Tobacconist

TSG Tobacco Station - DFO

WHITE ROCK

Friendly Grocer White Rock General Store

WOREE

Bayview Gardens Newsagency

Shorts IGA Woree

IGA Southside

YORKEYS KNOB

Yorkeys Knob Boat Club

Yorkey’s Post Office

CASSOWARY COAST

CARDWELL

Brearleys Bakery

Cardwell Butchery

Cardwell Ice Works

Cardwell IGA

Cardwell Museum

Rainforest & Reef Visitor Centre

Visitor Information & Heritage Centre

Hinchinbrook Regional Arts

Salad Bowl

Seabreeze Cafe

Terry & Mamikos Cafe

KURRIMINE BEACH

Kurrimine Beach Service Station

INNISFAIL

A&A Realty

Brothers Leagues Club Innisfail

Cignall Innisfail

Collins Catering

Dom’s CTC Tobacconist

Maranos Ampol

Wanted: ‘Pyjama angels’

|

l

| Nick Dalton

CASSOWARY Coast Regional Council is reviewing its plans for the future thanks to valuable feedback received from 2336 community members who participated in the 2024 MARKYT Community Scorecard earlier this year.

A council spokesman said to

ensure that the council’s plans described the community’s vision, aspirations and priorities as outlined in the scorecard results, community members were invited to participate in a series of workshops being held throughout the region next month.

“Cassowary Coast 2024 FUTYR community workshops will share feedback on current service levels from the scorecard

that will guide (the) council’s local priorities,” he said.

“Attendees will receive an overview of planned projects and activities to address the local priorities and have the opportunity to provide feedback to ensure that the plans meet local needs.”

The sessions are:

• Innisfail – 6pm to 8pm, Monday, August 5, disaster coor-

As Australia celebrates National Pyjama Day, local volunteers (better known as pyjama angels) Lucy Friend from Koah and Nicole Senn of Bayview Heights are calling on the Cairns community to become a volunteer and join the Pyjama Foundation’s angel training on August 4 at IFYS Foster Care to bring joy to local children in foster care.

Ms Friend, who is a local

environmental scientist, started as a volunteer at the foundation five years ago with a desire to become a foster mum but due to her busy schedule she opted for becoming a pyjama angel and she said it had changed her life.

“I had a friend who joined the Pyjama Foundation and I’ve always wanted to do foster care but I’m not quite ready because of my many commitments but I thought by joining I could still support children in foster care,” she said.

“I love kids, and I know kids in foster care have a really complex set of problems that go back to the lack of having reliable people to depend on and I wanted to help, even if it’s in a small way.

“My kid knows I’m coming every week. He knows that I’m

there for him. For these five years I’ve been working with the same kid, and we still catch up every week.”

Since her arrival at the Pyjama Foundation, Ms Friend has recruited another four pyjama angels, including her close friend Nicole Senn, who has now been with the foundation for a year .

“Being a pyjama angel is so beneficial to the community and the kids that are involved but also, from my experience, it has been incredibly beneficial to me,” Ms Senn said.

To join the August 4 training day, you must apply to become a volunteer at www.thepyjamafoundation.com

After completing the process you will be invited to the training session.

dination centre training room

• Mission Beach – 6pm to 8pm, Tuesday, August 6, Mission Beach C4 meeting room

• Tully – 9am to 11am, Wednesday, August 7, Tully Grandstand function room

• Cardwell – 6pm to 8pm, Wednesday, August 7, Cardwell Community Hall. Registrations are essential at

the Cassowary Coast Your Say site https://bit.ly/3y0jAX7. Sessions are most suitable for people aged 14 years or older. Younger people are also invited to take part when joined by their parent or guardian.

The 2024 MARKYT Community Scorecard was open from Monday, May 13 to Friday, June 7, attracting 2336 responses from residents.

Results from the scorecard will be published alongside the council’s response to future planning following the FUTYR community workshops. For inquiries regarding the scorecard or assistance to register for the workshops contact the council by email enquiries@ccrc.qld.gov.au or call the customer service team on 1300 763 903.

Pyjama angels Lucy Friend (left) and Nicole Senn are encouraging people to become volunteers and help local children in foster care. Picture: Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

CASSOWARY COAST

Lettersto the editor

In the last edition we asked: What needs to be done to get a replacement for the

such as tourism and agriculture, and leave the range as a tourist drive.

- Chris Snow, Facebook

Many people would like a tunnel but let’s think about that for a moment. A car tunnel can be around four per cent incline and costs at least $500 million per kilometre. If it started at Smithfield it would come out near the Speewah turnoff and cost $5bn. Add some big sweeping curves to also get on and off at Kuranda and it’s probably closer to $8bn. If a private company built it and wanted a modest five per cent

per annum return, each of the 10,000 cars a day would pay around $40,000 a year to use it. That will never happen so the business case for a tunnel is not that good. I wish it were otherwise.

- Ian Stone, Facebook

I find this interesting. As the issue is not all about a bridge. It is the road as well, which is caving in. The bridge is not going to fix the road issues that are there now. Or have I got it wrong?

- Kathy Davies, Facebook

The road and bridge are a total mess. If the single lane gets washed away, fixing the bridge will only matter to Kuranda locals.

- Lynne Lund, Facebook

Denis Walls, Whitfield

Navarre, Trinity Beach

Doug Taylor, chief executive officer of The Smith Family

NAIDOC week’s ‘loud and proud’ parade

l MOSSMAN

ANOTHER successful NAIDOC Week was celebrated across the nation recently and there was no better place to observe this inspiring event than in Mossman.

The title and theme for this year was ‘Keep the fire blak, loud, proud’ and certainly great pride was taken in a number of events in Mossman last week. Apart from the kids, the occasion was well supported by parents and school staff members, together with both locals and tourists enjoying the fun.

NAIDOC has been observed as a weeklong event since 1975 and each year has

a different topic. It celebrates the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and is observed, not just in Indigenous Australian communities, but also in increasing numbers of schools, local councils and workplaces.

I was one of many that lined Front St in Mossman to enjoy the street parade last Friday, the grand finale of what had been a packed week of events. Many then ventured to a family fun day held at Bubu Kinkari or George Davis Park and finally the day culminated in a disco night at the shire hall.

Other events through the week included a baby show by the Goobidi Bamanga organisation, which is aimed at bringing families

together for a day of fun.

Midweek saw the Mossman Gorge Gateway Markets, which included Yalanji Arts and other items that local First Nation People had locally made. The unique art and gifts were on display for everyone to appreciate and available for sale for those wanting their own traditional piece of Far North Queensland culture.

One key event was the annual elders’ lunch, held at the Mossman Shire Hall, with a traditional kurma (ground oven) and cultural entertainment

Overall, the week was a successful and inspiring event. Then add the Douglas Shire Show weekend, which followed NAIDOC, one can certainly say it has been a fun time.

Bowls club renos near completion

l MOSSMAN

MOSSMAN Bowls Club is much loved by visitors and locals from over the Douglas Shire.

Not only does it offer great value for those requiring a tasty lunch or dinner, but it is also well known for its stateof-the-art bowling facilities, loved by both experts of the sport and those trying a roll up for the first time.

The club is just about to get bigger and better as major expansion work, which has been underway for the last few months, will soon be completed

Secretary-manager Greg ‘Harry’ Potter said “this is the first upgrade of the club since the original expansion back in 2009”.

“Last year, the 2023 management committee recommended, along with the members’ approval, an upgrade to the front of the club, plus new office space and a new and expanded gaming room for 44 gaming machines,” he said.

The appointed contractor for the upgrade, Rubicon, commenced works late 2023 and the current renovations will be completed with the new gaming room to open early August. Cyclone Jasper and the subsequent rain event did delay the project by a couple of weeks.

The function hall will be upgraded to include a new separate airconditioned sports bar and this will include a TAB, a pool table and large screen TVs for major sports events.

The final renovations will

be completed by November, hopefully in time for the Melbourne Cup.

As part of the upgrade to the bistro, the club will be offering pizzas on the menu for both dine-in and takeaway.

Chairman Bill Allison is mindful of the importance the club is to the local community, so a smaller function room will be retained for seating up to about 60 people.

The new function room will be available for hire to local community groups etc.

The club will be rebranded as Club Mossman, but will always be known as the Mossman Memorial Bowls Club, formed on September 1, 1945.

Bowlers will have direct access to the undercover synthetic green from the carpark and the club has this year completed the replacement of the lighting over the bowling green.

The club’s management is very aware of the recent decision to place the Mossman Mill in receivership and remains extremely confident that the investment and renovations to the club, and the rebranding to Club Mossman, will be well received by the local community, members, bowlers, and visitors to the Douglas Shire.

I’m off for a sneak peek of the new look bowls club, so for now it’s Gazza signing out.

Send your stories to gazza@ cairnslocalnews.com. au

Carpets are nearly down at the new-look Mossman Bowls Club.

Above, above right, and below: Mossman’s colourful NAIDOC street parade weaves through the centre of the town.

Traditional dancing at Mossman’s Party On The Park.

Nod for 220-lot subdivision

l GORDONVALE

| Nick Dalton

A LARGE 220-lot subdivision has been approved by Cairns Regional Council off Draper Rd at 3L Hickling Access, Gordonvale.

The proposal reduced the number of lots from 226 to 220 and increased a new park from 3500sqm to 4720sqm.

It will be developed by Sunshine Coast-based Mahaside, operated by Noel Covey, in eight stages and include 156 “traditional” lots, ranging from 600sqm to 700sqm, 36 smaller lots (450sqm to 599sqm) and 28 larger allotments (700sqmplus).

Cr Matthew Tickner told July 10’s council meeting that there “was nothing crazy about this one”.

He said he was pleased the park would be increased in size and the developer providing better road alignments.

Council officers recommended that the subdivision

be approved after changes were made to the initial application.

The report said that traffic was to be diverted off Draper Rd into the development via new Road M, which avoided road construction clashes with trunk water main infrastructure at the western end of Draper Rd.

“It also avoids the need for extensive retaining walls on the southern side of Draper Rd, which would otherwise be required by the approved plans, while at the same time maintaining the existing service access to (the) council’s reservoir and Hickling Access,” the report said.

“Road G has been realigned further north to better align with the approved development to the east and to which connectivity is desirable.

“Pedestrian links from the internal roads to Draper Rd and Road G have been introduced to provide better pedestrian access to Draper Rd and Road G, both of which (the) council has advised are intended as bus routes.

“The pedestrian links also have the added advantage of providing additional connectivity to the proposed parkland.

“The internal road arrangement and alignment has been adjusted to suit the revised Road G configuration.

“Road D has changed from a cul-de-sac to a through road to provide better connectivity and lot access.

“A dedicated water supply booster pump site has been provided within the development, but immediately adjacent to (the) council’s existing water reservoir site.

“The Road C lot configuration has been improved with the relocated cul-de-sac which has been shifted a little south from the location on the approved plans.

“Road B west of Mackey Creek has been widened from 6m to 6.5m kerb to kerb in accordance with the previous approval condition requirements.”

Mr Covey was contacted for comment. The layout of the new 220-lot

subdivision off Draper Rd at Gordonvale. Picture: Supplied

TimeOut

How deep is Bee Gees love?

l CAIRNS CBD

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

POLISH your best John Travolta moves and prove ‘How deep is your love’ by joining two nights of Bee Gees extravaganza at The Reef Hotel Casino next weekend.

A staple of the Las Vegas strip, The Australian Bee Gees Show is back in Cairns straight from the US for two nights of disco that will give you ‘Night Fever’ at BAR36 on Friday, July 26 and Saturday, July 27.

The kings of Las Vegas are back with a Bee Gees extraordinaire that locals won’t want to miss, going through all the 60s and 70s classics with a modern aesthetic for a nostalgic Studio 54 experience by the hand of the talented trio and their band.

“It’s always great to come home to Australia and catch up with family and friends. We get a little homesick living in the US so we do look forward to the Aussie tours,” said band member Michael Clift who plays Barry Gibb.

“We’ve been performing at the casino for over 10 years and it’s a fun gig for us. We love the energy at BAR36 and the crowds are always super responsive, so we’re excited to be back.

“Our show is done from a modern point of view. We’ll perform some wonderful ballads from the 60s, the 70s disco classics and some surprises as well. It’s a lot of fun and brings back some great memories for fans.”

The Australian Bee Gees Show embodies the spirit the Gibb brothers took out on stage. The band touches on all eras of the Bee Gees music, while still keeping as traditionally close to the

original performances and vocals as possible.

“I feel that the longer we have been doing the show the more it evolves. We put a lot of thought into making it a great, fun experience for all and it’s a lot of fun for us too,” Mr Clift said.

“The highlight of the show is the amazing songs of the Gibb brothers. There are so many hits and wonderful songs that were recorded by other artists that some people are surprised how many amazing songs the Bee Gees wrote.

“If you’re a Bee Gees fan, you are going to love the show, so come on down. If you’re not a big fan, come down and have a listen. I’m sure you’d be surprised how many of the songs you might know.”

For more information visit BAR36’s Facebook page.

Villains of vaudeville hit choral’s stage

l EDGE HILL

AHEAD of its opening weekend and sell-out season for its zesty new theatre restaurant production of Vaude Villains, Cairns Choral Society has bowed to public demand, adding two show-only performances on August 9 and 10.

For her 10th production as writer and director of Cairns Choral Society’s popular theatre restaurant series, Kathy Carruthers has taken a family saga, added a dash of vaudeville, a splash of musical comedy and a twist of tragedy to create the perfect recipe for the perfect night out opening today at the society's theatre on Greenslopes St.

In Vaude Villains, after a missing will turns up, three siblings stand to inherit their grandparents’ New York theatre if they bring it back to life. For starryeyed Adie, it’s a dream come true. For her sensible sister, Lina, it seems like an

impossible mountain to climb, and for their brother – the gloriously neurotic Will – it’s a terrifying prospect. Like the New York Theatre Guild members, long-lost Uncle Joe has other ideas.

In a notable first, Vaude Villains’s creative process has been a true family affair. The show’s jaw-dropping original musical score was composed by Isla Carruthers, whose mother is the show’s writer and director, the ever-clever Kathy Carruthers.

According to Mrs Carruthers, Isla created the tracks from scratch by recording 17 of Cairns’ best adult and student musicians.

But the Carruthers family involvement doesn’t stop there.

“Son Marcus and daughter Lara are also in the show, with Lara also taking care of some of the tap choreography, while eldest son Jason is one of the musicians on the backing track with Isla, and husband Tim is on the ‘tech’ team,” Mrs Carruthers said.

With just a few hours until curtain-up,

the cast and crew of Vaude Villains are ready to shine on stage at the Cairns Choral Society’s Greenslopes St headquarters.

“We have a great cast of 31 people, led by many talented leads. Some will be familiar faces to CCS lovers,” Mrs Carruthers said.

“John Margetts, Sharee Nicholls and Yasmin Croghan – all recently starring in Les Mis – are lined up beside some talented newcomers, Georgia Shaw, Rhett Kerr and Emily Hughes.

“But that’s certainly not all. The show has a whole host of featured performers, 17 in all.”

The theatre restaurant season of Vaude Villains from July 26 to August 4 sold out in a record 10 days. In response, the Cairns Choral Society announced an extended season with two extra performances (show only) on Friday, August 9 and Saturday, August 10 at The Cairns Choral Society Theatre on Greenslopes St.

Tickets are available at https://bit.ly/3Lzzxqr

The Australian Bee Gees Show is once again coming to The Reef Hotel Casino for two nights of the best disco. Picture: Supplied

Marcus Carruthers and Max Carpenter as Tipple and Hooch in Vaude Villains. Picture: Supplied

Iconic CIAF to wow crowds

Seven hundred special artworks on

l CAIRNS CBD

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

THE 15th Cairns Indigenous Art Fair is finally back in all its deadly glory, with over 20 events until Sunday, over 700 artworks exhibited, over 40 stalls in its art market, and lots of entertainment. It is set to be CIAF at its greatest.

Kicking off with an exciting opening night party, the launch of the Country Speaking exhibition which features over 600 artworks from First Nations artists across Queensland and the highly anticipated ‘Light the Fire’ fashion show, the biggest Indigenous art fair has started with a bang and there’s plenty more in store.

CIAF’s artistic director Francoise Lane said it was the biggest CIAF ever.

“This year CIAF celebrates its 15th year anniversary. We started off from very humble beginnings at the Tanks Arts Cent-

re in tanks 3 and 4 and today we have grown to an art fair and art market that fills the Cairns Convention Centre,” she said.

“In the art fair alone we have more than 700 artworks, it’s the biggest coming together of artworks from across the state that CIAF has ever seen.

“At the art fair we have artists from Cairns, Yarrabah, Badu Island in the Torres Straits, across to Mornington Island. We also have independent artists from southeast Queensland, Brisbane and the Gold Coast and we’re excited to have 11 independent and emerging artists who are yet to be discovered.

“We have our fashion show, which is one of our most popular items and it’s been sold out two years in a row. We also have the symposium which brings together some of the leading First Nations academics and thinkers, like Dr Jilda Andrews and Dr Daniele Hromek.

“We have our 15th anniversary exhibition called ‘Not Selling Cakes’, which brings

show

together nominations by 15 of Queensland’s art and cultural leaders who have played a pivotal role in bringing CIAF to where it is today.”

The opening night on Thursday kicked off CIAF in style with art awards, live entertainment from The Pad Boys and the first round of the fashion show but there’s still lots more in store, with the arts market, weaving and ceramic workshops, the symposium, live music and dance performances and artist talks. There’s plenty to keep people busy throughout the weekend.

One of the highlights are the art markets, which have also reached new heights this year.

Having been the pivotal event that started off CIAF, it has now grown to a full-fledged display of First Nations talent with over 40 stalls exhibiting the works of seasoned artists like Susan Reys better known for her ceramic work.

For CIAF’s full program, visit https://bit.ly/4bR8v8A

Cairns artist Susan Reys with her ceramics at the CIAF’s art markets. Picture: Supplied

CIAF’s artistic director Francoise Lane at the Country Speaking exhibition at the Cairns Convention Centre. Picture: Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

Posthumous book launch honours Cairns-based pivotal environmentalist

Defender of woodlands

A POSTHUMOUS book launch honouring one of Australia’s most pivotal environmental conservationists will be taking place next week at the Botanic Gardens visitor centre.

Originally born in NSW, Peter Hitchcock (OAM) spent his life fighting for the conservation of national and international forests, playing a major role in establishing several national parks in Australia and the world, the establishment of the Wet Tropics and Management Authority in FNQ, and other key conservation roles in Nepal, Papua New Guinea and Cairns.

Mr Hitchcock died on May 20, 2019, in Cairns after battling cancer for several years while he was working on a book about the tall eucalyptus forests in Australia.

His wife Liana Hitchcock decided his work and legacy should be honoured and, with the support of two co-editors

and friends, the memoir – Peter Hitchcock Defender of Forests – will officially be launched at the Botanic Gardens on Wednesday, July 31 at 5pm.

No registrations are needed.

“All people are welcome to the launch. They can come and hear about Peter Hitchcock, the book and buy a copy of the book which will soon be available in Cairns’ bookshops or online,” said co-editor and close friend of Mr Hitchcock Lorraine Cairnes.

“Peter moved to Cairns to become the first executive director of the Wet Tropics Management Authority (WTMA) in 1991 and held the role for six years, where he established WTMA, which was a challenge, managing the world heritage rainforests of FNQ.

“Peter’s legacy is in the conservation of the forests, but he always loved writing, so when he died, we promised his wife Liana that we would put together his writing into the story of his life.”

Ms Cairnes highlighted the importance of Mr Hitchcock’s work and the importance of

honouring his legacy.

“There are many aspects to his legacy from NSW to Queensland and then internationally. He remained in Cairns when he left WTMA and set up an international consultancy and worked mostly in international conservation and potential world heritage areas, working from Japan to Madagascar,” she said.

“He was born in Gloucester in NSW, which isn’t very far from the Barrington Tops and the Gloucester Tops, where there are huge forests, and when he was born, they were being logged. Now, because of him, they’re all national parks.

“This book is edited as lightly as possible by me and co-editor John Benson for it to remain in Peter’s own words and it was a challenge, and it took four years.

“This launch is an opportunity for people to read the remarkable story of how one man has changed the face of forest conservation, particularly rainforest conservation, in Australia and the world, and to know about his story as a person.”

A memoir honouring the legacy of Peter Hitchcock (OAM) will be launched at the Botanic Gardens next week. Picture: Supplied

TimeOut Ciao from ‘tropical’ Italy

Spotlight on Colombia

Almost 100 people enjoyed Latin American country’s culture

l BUNGALOW

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

THE Colombian Independence Day festival last weekend exceeded the expectations of organisers with more than 90 people busting out their best moves to the beat of Colombian traditional tunes.

Delicious traditional snacks, cold and frothy beers, live traditional music and lots of dance made for an exciting night at the German Club Cairns last Saturday where over 90 people gathered to celebrate the Colombian Independence Day.

Festival organiser Carolina Contreras said the event was better than they had hoped.

“I think this is the best festival we’ve ever held,” she said.

“We finally had 93 people attending the event and the food sold out, the bar did extremely well in sales and people were really enjoying the night,” she said.

“One of the highlights of the night were the raffles. People stayed until the end just to get their hands on the prizes and they had a lot of fun with it.

“The band Amazonas was another highlight.

and that’s what we achieved.

l CAIRNS CITY

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez CIAO from Italy in the tropics. The Italian extravaganza has officially started and its biggest event – La Festa – is taking over Fogarty Park tomorrow. The Cairns Italian Festival officially launched yesterday with the Italian speaking competition and the theatre restaurant production Rome Sweet Rome, but the main event is coming tomorrow at Fogarty Park with the return of the extremely popular La Festa, which attracts tens of thousands of people for the perfect day outing.

With over 30 food and beverage stalls, entertainment for all ages all day, and the perfect set out for an afternoon picnic and family outing, La Festa is set to delight the palates and the hearts of the Cairns community in its third iteration.

Festival president Claudio Di Bartolomeo said La Festa would have you feeling like you’re in Italy for a day.

“They managed to get people really excited and running to the dance floor and, when the dance performers included the audience in the performance, everyone got excited.”

ture and promoting unity among all communities.

Ms Contreras said the festival had achieved its goal of introducing people to Colombian cul-

“We had a lot of people that weren’t Colombians or Latin Americans celebrating with us`. It was very encouraging to see

them exploring and learning about the customs and ways of celebrating in Colombian culture,” she said.

“I think when people feel included is when things go best

“It was a very satisfactory experience for me being the first time I organised the event because people were having fun and enjoying themselves.”

“The goal is to bring Italy to the tropics and make you feel like you’re on an Italian holiday for a day,” he said. It’s highly recommended to buy La Festa tickets online to avoid the queues. Visit www. cairnsitalianfestival.com.au

Manu Ross (left) and Taylor Goulter enjoyed the Colombian Independence Day festival last weekend. Pictures: Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

Dave Perez (left) and Berna Preindl soaked up the Colombian atmosphere at the German Club Cairns.

Marta Arocena (left), Marcela Naranjo, Audrey Cash and Luz Posada loved the food, music, dancing and raffles at the Colombian festival.

WHAT’S

SPEEDWAY @ KERRIBEE PARK MAREEBA

l SAT JUL 27TH, 5:00PM

This is the biggest speedway meeting for the season with the annual ‘King of Kerribee’ for Sprintcars with $5000 for the winner.

Plus the family and kids theme is ‘Christmas in July’ with prizes and fun for everyone. Apart from the fiece racing on the track, there will 5 hours of excitement and fun, including a huge jumping castle, lolly drops, prizes for best dressed and more!

For a great evening out bring the family to Kerribee Park, 52 Springs Road, Mareeba.

EXHIBITIONS SEASON III @ NORTHSITE

l FRI JUL 26TH, 5:00PM

In Exhibitions Season III, NorthSite presents a suite of exhibitions by First Nations artists, coinciding with the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF). In Gallery One and the Void is the new video and sound installation ‘way to be’ by artist Vernon Ah Kee. Gallery Two holds new works from leading and emerging Torres Strait Islander artists in Meriba Tonar | Ngoelmudh | Our Way, curated by Aven Noah Jr and Leith Assan, and presented in partnership with Gab Titui Cultural Centre. On Jul 25 – Aug 28, NorthSite will present an exhibition of new prints and weaving by artist Ivy Minniecon (Kuku Yalanji, Kabi Kabi, Gooreng Gooreng, and Vanuatu), developed with Dian Darmansjah at NorthSite Art Studios.

BOOKS & BEERS @ JULATTEN HOTEL

l SAT JUL 27TH, 3:00PM-5:00PM

Looking for a local book club with a difference? The Julatten Book Club’s quarterly meetings bring together avid readers, lovers of literature and those who simply enjoy good company, great beer and supporting local talent.

Join the Julatten Book Club on the deck, overlooking the rainforest for a casual chat about our book of the month - ‘Weighed Down’ by Mary Pearson. This is a free event, with author Mary Pearson joining, so don’t miss out on this rare opportunity to meet and mingle with authors, right here in our community.

ADOPTION DAY @ PETBARN SMITHFIELD

l SUN JUL 28TH, 11:00AM

Join North Queensland Animal Rescue (NQAR) at Petbarn Smithfield on for an adoption event!

NQAR is a Cairns based registered charity and is run entirely by volunteers.

They will have a number of gorgeous dogs and lots of puppies for you to meet, cuddle and take home. Come on down between 11am and 1pm to meet your new best friend.

MEET THE AUTHOR @ STRATFORD LIBRARY

l SUN JUL 28TH, 1:30PM

ArtsNational Cairns (formaly ADFAS) presents Daniel Evans ‘Cabbages, Carrots and Lamb: Spanish Still Life from 1600-1812’ at the Stratford Library Meeting Room.

Still life painting is incredible, and found many of its origins in Spain. The symbolism and meaning is rich, whilst easy to comprehend, and sometimes it’s a little bit over the top.

Cost: $25 for visitors/$70 half-year Membership for Jul-Nov lectures. For more information visit ArtsNational website.

CHAIR YOGA @ CAIRNS RAILWAY HALLS

l FRI AUG 2ND, 10:00AM

MARILYN PRATT has been invited to introduce ‘Chair Yoga’ to the members of the Australian Independent Retirees, at their meeting held at Cairns Railway Halls - 40-42 Macnamara Street, Manunda.

Chair Yoga was born out of necessity for seniors in their advancing years, making it a beneficial and pleasant activity associated with social intervention. Visitors are welcomed. Morning is tea supplied. For further enquiries phone 4039 2397.

GIG Guide

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

FRIDAY 26TH

Crystalbrook Riley SAX MAN, 4:00pm

Dunwoody’s Kinchy, 4:00pm

Quamby Pub BIG PUPS, 4:00pm

Salt House Stan Stone, 5:00pm

Ten 06 Victoria Boxall, 5:30pm

Davies Park INFINITY DUO, 6:00pm

Ellis Beahc Bar & Grill Icaro, 6:00pm

O’Donnell’s Cafe Bar Rowly Duo, 6:00pm

Cazalys Hot Ice, 6:30pm

Salt House DJ Matt Caseli, 7:00pm

Brothers Leagues Club The Blue Healers, 7:30pm

The Hambo Hotel Mississippi Shakedown, 7:30pm

Rattle n Hum Cairns Janna Mercedes, 8:00pm

BAR36 The Australian Bee Gees Show, 9:00pm

The Pier Bar DJ Gerry, 9:00pm

SATURDAY 27TH

Yorkeys Knob Boating Club Silver Fox, 1:00pm

Ellis Beach Bar & Grill Klare KuOlga, 2:00pm

Quamby Pub BIG PUPS, 4:00pm

Brothers Leagues Club No More No Less, 5:00pm

Salt House Tim Smith, 5:00pm

Davies Park INFINITY DUO, 6:00pm

The Benson Hotel SAX MAN, 6:00pm

Cazalys Big Jim, 6:15pm

Yungaburra Hotel Jeanette Wormald, 7:00pm

Brothers Leagues Club No More No Less, 7:00pm

Salt House DJ Moose, 7:00pm

Trinity Beach Tavern The LOST BOY, 7:00pm

Tanks Simone Stacey & NO SHAME IN MY GAME, 7:30PM

The Pier Bar DJ Moose, 7:30pm

Red Beret MOEFO, 8:00pm

The Pier Bar Flavour, 8:00pm

BAR36 The Australian Bee Gees Show, 9:00pm

SUNDAY 28TH

Ellis Beach Bar & Grill Rowly Duo and Friends, 1:00pm Dunwoody’s The Vibes, 2:00pm Yorkeys Knob Boating Club Glacier Rock, 3:00pm

O’Donnell’s Cafe Bar SAX MAN, 3:00pm

Salt House Groove Therapy, 5:00pm

The Pier Bar Nightshift, 5:00pm

BAR36 The Australian Bee Gees Show, 9:00pm

Are

www.cairnslocalnews.com.au/gig-guide

Take a minute... Puzzles for you

Solutions

Weekly Horoscopes

CROSSWORD

It is time to clear your decks. Listen to a good friend who is truly looking out for your best interests. You can get your point across and make valuable connections. Your lover probably won’t put up with your behavior.

Offer love and affection instead of conflict and rejection. Someone you least expect could be trying to make you look bad. This is a turning point. Changes could be overwhelming.

You will enjoy interacting with those who come from different backgrounds. You may be confused regarding your love life. You will be a bit of a spendthrift this week. You are best to back away from commitment.

Some time spent with that special someone should be your intent. Try to bend but by no means should you give in completely. Be very careful while in transit or while traveling in foreign countries. You can make personal changes that will enhance your reputation and give you greater self confidence.

Deceit with coworkers is apparent. You mustn’t be so trusting. Pleasure trips will be a form of healing for your emotional state of mind. Your lover may not under stand your needs so you must figure out a way to communicate them.

You will have no trouble getting things to fall into place. You should expect to have changes in your home. You may be angry if someone tries to take credit for something you did. You can open up to your mate and let them know what you expect out of this relationship.

21. come nearer to in distance or time (8)

22. demanding that rules concerning behaviour are obeyed and observed (6)

24. make (someone) capable of a particular action or legally competent to act in a particular way (10)

25. a soft, creamy cheese with firm white skin (4)

26. a man who has been castrated, especially one employed to guard the women’s living areas in an Asian court (6)

27. make a polite, formal, or friendly request to go somewhere or to do something (6)

DOWN

Do not get involved in joint financial ventures. Don’t let your partner get you going. You are best to travel or attend lectures or seminars. You should visit a friend or relative who hasn’t been well. You can’t live your life for others.

A second chance will result in good work. Your high energy should be spent pleasing your mate. You can get ahead if you play your cards right. Set a limit on the amount you’re willing to spend, and be sure to stick to it.

Get them to pitch in, if you need help. Unexpected bills will be impossible for you to pay. You need to concentrate on the areas where you can make a difference. You will get upset over trivial matters.

ACROSS

When dealing with large institutions, try not to make waves. You will be extremely receptive to new, progressive methods at work. Concentrate on research of value in your work. Nagging has never been something that you could tolerate, and it’s once again driving you into a lonely state of affairs.

1. where bread and cakes are made (6)

4. to confide (4,2)

9. activity engaged in for enjoyment and recreation, especially by children (4)

10. a large closed horse-drawn vehicle formerly used to carry passengers along a regular route between two places (10)

1. an inflatable flexible bag filled with a gas, such as helium (7)

2. a light narrow canoe with a covering over the top (5)

3. showing regard for someones’ abilities and worth (7)

5. form of literary art that uses rhythmic qualities of language (6)

6. a silver-white to yellow metallic element used especially in magnets (9)

7. an object packed in a box to post (7)

8. an expression of good will offered on a person’s birthday (5,8)

Deal with the needs of children. Be diplomatic but stem when it comes to giving of yourself. Problems with your boss could lead to unemployment. Your partner may be somewhat irritable this week.

11. a sweet biscuit, typically containing pieces of chocolate or fruit (6)

12. birthday headwear (5,3)

13. an inflatable ring-shaped rubber tube used inside a tire to hold air under pressure (5,4)

or projects should be on your mind. Travel and family gatherings should be in order.

15. freely transfer a possession (4)

16. a shelter for mammals or birds, especially pigeons (4)

17. a symbol, or words legally registered or established by use as representing a company or product (9)

14. provide (someone) with amusement or enjoyment (9)

16. a small cake baked in a cup-shaped foil or paper container and typically iced (7)

18. recognize or find out (7)

19. be given, presented with, or paid (something) (7)

20. a person suffering from mania (6)

23 a Jewish scholar or teacher, especially one who studies or teaches Jewish law (5)

Budget Direct survey finds half of learner-drivers admit to dishonest conduct

Falsifying hours in

l SURVEY RESULTS

| Nick Dalton

ALMOST half of Australian motorists

aged 18 to 27 are exaggerating the number of hours recorded in their learner driver’s logbook, survey data reveals.

A Budget Direct spokeswoman said of the 968 Aussies to take part in the Budget Direct Car Insurance Learner Driver Survey, nearly 40 per cent of 18-to-27-year-olds admitted to falsifying the entries in their logbook.

“Furthermore, 60 per cent of all respondents said they’d qualified for a provisional licence without being required to complete a logbook of supervised hours behind the wheel,” she said.

“There was a strong contrast between the logbook tracking hours expected of manual drivers compared to those who drove automatic.

“The survey data showed that those who held a manual licence were more likely to forge their logbooks, with males being the most likely gender to do so.

“New South Wales and Victoria topped the class with 120 total hours logged required as a learner, with 20 of these hours’ night driving. Both Queensland and the ACT required 100 hours logged, and 10 night hours.

“The Northern Territory had no minimum for total or night hours.

“The survey showed that in the past 10 years, there had been a noticeable shift in car transmission preferences.

“Despite the increase in young people opting for an automatic licence over a manual, those taking a manual test have always had a higher pass rate than those taking an automatic one.

“Additional survey data revealed that about 23 per cent of 18 to 27-year-old motorists failed to look over their shoulder during their practical driving exam. A further 9 per cent admitting to failing to indicate/signal.

“When it came to sentiment around safety, more than 40 per cent of respondents believed that recording mandatory logbook hours in different weather conditions was helpful in improving the learner driver process.

“Other improvement options identified included offering refresher courses for nonprofessional supervisors, such as a parent, improving the quality of driving instructors, and increasing the minimum age of learnerdrivers and overall logbook hours.”

For the full breakdown and further insights from the Budget Direct Learner Driver Survey visit https://bit.ly/3YgNocz

Half of learner-drivers have been faking driving hours in their logbook. Picture: 1BSG/iStock

CXing up Mazda SUV range

Japanese brand rolls out full suite of upmarket ‘large architecture’ models

l NEW MODELS

| Nick Dalton

MAZDA Australia has hosted an exclusive preview of four CX SUV models at the National Gallery in Canberra – the first time all four models have premiered on the world stage.

Joining the the Mazda CX-60 launched in 2022 and the flagship Mazda CX-90 introduced in 2023, the Mazda CX-70 and Mazda CX80 round out the full complement of ‘large architecture’ Mazda SUV models and will both join the Australian model range at the end of this year.

Mazda Australia will be the first and only market globally to offer the CX-60, CX-70, CX-80 and CX-90.

Mazda Australia managing director Vinesh Bhindi said it was “a key moment for Mazda Australia”.

“As we move into the next generation of our brand, these four trailblazers all play their own distinct role in sustaining our ambition to offer an unrivalled breadth of choice for our customers,” he said.

“Whether it’s the pursuit of life’s passions in the CX-70, the family focus of the CX-80, the lap of luxury in the CX-90 or the CX60’s embodiment of Mazda premium technology, our commitment to an all-hybrid model range also opens up a wealth of new opportunities for Mazda owners to fully

enrich their life in motion.”

Mazda displayed its four leading lights ahead of the grand opening of ‘Gauguin’s World: TONA IHO, TONA AO’ – a rousing Australian-first exhibition celebrating the works of Paul Gauguin and exploring the theme of ‘Colour in Motion’. The major exhibition runs until October 7, 2024.

The CX-60 is currently fourth in the medium SUV $60,000 segment with 1820 sales this year, after Tesla Model Y (12,516), Lexus NX (2906) and BMW X3 (1884).

The CX-90, in the large SUV over $60,000 segment, has sold 460 units, well done on class leader BMW X5 (1604), Land Rover Defender (1463), Range Rover Sport (1240) and Kia EV6 (1060).

More details on engine specifications, launch timings, pricing and equipment for the CX-70 and CX80 will be confirmed at a later date.

For the first time in the world Mazda displayed the CX-80, CX-70, CX-60 and CX-90 SUVs in Canberra. Picture: Supplied

Real Estate

What does $750,000

Edmonton offers near-new good value, while Edge Hill has premium location

l SPECIAL REPORT

| Nick Dalton

THE purchasing power of $750,000 varies widely in the Cairns region.

According to Herron Todd White Cairns director Danny Glasson, an owner-occupier in the southern corridor suburbs around Edmonton, about 16km south of the Cairns city centre, would get a near-new, large, four-bedroom, two-bathroom family home with a living area of 175sqm and a swimming pool on a 700 square metre lot.

“There are no unit properties in this location within this value range. Due to the relatively affordable price range of dwelling properties in this locality, there would be insufficient demand to support unit properties of similar value,” he said.

Mr Glasson said in Edge Hill, about 6km north-west of the Cairns CBD, $750,000 would only be able to acquire a circa-1975, lowset, partly-renovated, fourbedroom, two-bathroom residence

with a patio and two-car carport, on a 736sqm block.

“Unit properties in this value range would most likely comprise two level villa-style properties or duplex units,” he said.

“At a $750,000 purchase point you would be able to acquire a circa-2015 built, three-bedroom, two-bathroom duplex unit of 130sqm of floor area with a patio and two car lock-up garage.

“Residential duplex properties are attractive for investors around this price point due to achieved gross yields in excess of six per cent.

“It is possible to acquire modern four-bedroom, twobathroom duplex properties in southern suburb locations and older fair quality four-bedroom, two-bathroom duplex properties in Edge Hill and surrounding established Cairns suburbs for near the $750,000 price point.

“This price point has performed in line with the improvement in the general Cairns market and demonstrated an increase of around 10 per cent since June 2023.”

Offers of over $699,000 are wanted for this two-level home with five bedrooms in Greenslopes St, Edge Hill. Contact Scott Frazer at Godwin Witten Realty on 0408 774 617.

Cairns Local

Advertising agencies, advertisers and individuals by lodging material 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

Any advertisement accepted for publication in Cairns Local News is subject to the rules applicable to advertising laws laid down by the Media Council of Australia. All advertising is subject to the publisher’s approval and at its discretion can refuse to accept any advertisement it believes the message portrayed within the advertisement might infringe the rights of an individual or may not comply with all the laws and regulations of the States and Territories. The publisher does not accept any responsibility or liability in relation to any loss due to the failure of an advertisement to appear according to instructions.

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.

Advertisement Proofing

The proofing of advertisements cannot be guaranteed unless advertising copy content is received at Cairns Local News by 4pm TUESDAY prior to publication. The final proofing deadline is 5pm Wednesday prior to publication, any revisions requested after 5pm Wednesday are not guaranteed. If a booking is confirmed, final proof approval is not required by Cairns Local News.

Advertising Code Clearance

Rulings by the Trade Practices Commission require that all advertisements relating to alcoholic beverages, therapeutic goods, weight loss/slimming clinics and products or programmes must carry an APB Clearance Number. All advertisements that do not carry the APB Number first must be submitted for clearance and the issue of an APB number for inclusion in the advertisement directed to: Australian Publishers Bureau, Suite 2/1, 741 Pacific Highway, Gordon NSW 2072, Phone (02) 9499 3412.

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:

Friday July 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

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

Lady 76 years seeks health-conscious friend. Write to: PO Box 290, Earlville, 4870

25ft Cairns Custom Craft, 260horsepower Diesel Engine, and Alloy Trailer. Ph: 0427656237 or 0429656238

Kia Sportage Si 2014 (Silver Automatic) New tires, service book, bull bar, LED lights, well looked after, 174 000kms.

Ph: 0408940508 $12 000 ONO

Saturday July 27th

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

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

Village in the Valley: Butler St, 08:00-12:00

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

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

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

Sunday July 28th

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

Mission Beach Monster Markets: Mission Beach Village, 08:00-12:30

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

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

Tanks Markets: Collins Ave, Edge Hill, 09:00-14:00

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

Cairns Amateurs ambassadors are

Faces of Amateurs

l HORSE RACING

| Nick Dalton GLAMOROUS horse racing presenter Brittany Taylor will be joined by three-time Melbourne Cup-winning jockey Glen Boss and racing journalist Bart Sinclair as ambassadors for the 66th edition of the Cairns Amateurs Carnival.

Cairns Jockey Club president Tom Hedley said Ms Taylor and Mr Boss combined the cachet and calibre needed to position Cairns Amateurs on the leaderboard of Australia’s regional racing calendar.

“We are grateful to Ladbrokes Australia for securing two of the country’s racing royalty and two of the best minds when it comes to the sport of horse racing and fashion stakes,” he said.

“Another special guest we are pleased to welcome back – Amateurs’ honorary patron Bart Sinclair – whose enduring passion for Queensland racing, support and involvement in the event over the years has played an integral role in its past, current and future success."

Ladbrokes Australia’s stakeholder engagement director Karl deKroo said his organisation was committed to

backing and strengthening racing in North Queensland through partnerships with Cairns and the regions.

“Coming on board for the iconic Cairns Amateurs Carnival continues to build our foothold in regional Queensland, and we know our ambassadors Brittany Taylor and Glen Boss will do an amazing job breathing new life and focussing attention on to what is a time-honoured, bucket list event,” he said.

Ms Taylor said “as soon as I heard about the opportunity to be an ambassador for Cairns Amateurs, I jumped at it”.

“Covering the big city meetings is fantastic, but there's something special about the community feel and passion around meetings like this,” she said.

Mr Boss said he was looking forward to the Amateurs. “Living back in Queensland and being a proud Queenslander, I can’t wait to get to Cairns. Grassroots racing is the foundation of our great sport,” he said.

Mr Sinclair said he had only missed one Amateurs since 1984.

“Since starting my career as a sports journalist with The Australian in 1984, I have only missed one Cairns Amateurs,” he said.

l HORSE RACING

| Nick Dalton

THE Far North Queensland’s racing industry is worth close to $60 million.

Racing Queensland has released its latest independent economic data delivered by IER – a specialist in the tourism, events and entertainment industries – which demonstrates racing contributed a record $2.4 billion towards the state’s economy in 2022-23, representing a 100 per cent increase since Labor came to office in 2015.

In Far North Queensland, which takes in eight clubs from Mareeba to Innisfail and Mt Garnet, the industry was responsible for generating $58.6m in value added contribution to

the local economy in 2022-23, which represents a 110 per cent increase since 2015.

The industry has more than 1900 participants involved in Far North Queensland and supports over 450 full-time jobs in the region (up 100 per cent since 2015-16).

Important infrastructure projects, large and small, have also been supported in the region and are helping set local racing clubs up for future success including a $2.5m state-of-the art events centre overlooking the course and mounting yard at Cannon Park, with seating for up to 300 patrons.

Racing Minister Grace Grace said, with close to 40 race meetings staged in Far North Queensland each year, and close

KEY FAR NORTH QUEENSLAND RACING FACTS

• FNQ racing industry provides 2.4 per cent of the total Queensland racing sector ($2.4 billion)

• Sustains 453 full-time jobs

• Occupies 1900 roles

• Thoroughbred racing accounts for 87.7 per cent ($49.7m), greyhounds 8.6 per cent ($5m) and harness racing 3.7 per cent ($2.2m).

• 403 horses in training, 21 greyhounds

• 1066 owners

• 64 trainers

• 184 stable/kennel employees

• 313 industry staff (full and part-time)

• 12 jockeys, drivers and apprentices

• 16 breeders,

• 133 racing club volunteers and 100 other volunteers

to 2000 participants driving the local industry, racing was “absolutely thriving”.

“This includes our eight clubs in the north, which hosts iconic events as a part of the Northern

Queensland Racing Carnival, including the Cairns Amateurs and Cairns Cup each year.

“With more than 450 full-time jobs in the region, those are salaries and wages that directly ben-

efit the Far North Queensland economy.”

Speaker and Member for Mulgrave Curtis Pitt said the FNQ horse racing calendar continued its tradition of being “the major racing drawcard in both our regional and smaller communities, with social gatherings, fashions in the field and homegrown jockeys and horses dominating the many annual track events enjoyed by both locals and visitors alike to our region”.

“Our very own country-style racing events, such as the annual Gordonvale Cup which celebrates its 108th anniversary later this year, the historic Innisfail Race Club which formed in 1888 and plays host to the uniquely-named Banana Cup Race Day, along with the Mt

Garnet Races and Rodeo Weekend over three days every May, are just some of the popular and much-loved local racing events which continue to flourish, adding vibrancy and life to local communities,” he said.

Member for Cook Cynthia Lui said country racing was important to towns in the Far North.

“As well as the jobs and economic benefits of the racing industry, our turf clubs bring the community together and attract tourists and visitors on race days and carnivals,” she said.

RQ chairman Steve Wilson said the data once again highlighted how wide-ranging and impactful the racing industry’s size and scale was across Queensland.

(from left) Brittany Taylor, Bart Sinclair (picture courtesy of Brisbane Racing Club) and Glen Boss.

Two Freedom Boxing Club athletes No.1 in Ipswich

Duo’s golden fights

l BOXING

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

THE local Freedom Boxing Gym is steadily becoming home to some of FNQ’s most prolific fighters, with two of their seasoned boxers picking up gold at the Ipswich Regional Championships in late June.

Since its inception four years ago, Freedom Boxing has been training some of Cairns’ fiercest fighters, proving that boxers up north are up to the challenge against southeast fighters.

As is the case for 24-year-old Vincent Lacandula and 15-yearold Aidan Monk, who have been boxing for two years and have just come from a momentous win at the Ipswich Regional Championships and have already picked up southeast Queensland titles.

“I believe we’re just as good, if not better, than fighters down south,” said Freedom Boxing founder and coach Patrick Kelly.

“Conditions are a bit harder for us because of the distances we have to travel to compete, but we don’t feel intimidated by southeast fighters. There’s amazing talent in FNQ and we’ve showed what we can do,” he said.

“I have a passion for fitness, and I think boxing is a good discipline for me, it has benefitted my mental health and I like the limitless number of things that you can learn from it. It’s an art and I’m the artist."

For Mr Monk, boxing is all about staying fit and focused.

“I’ve been boxing for two years, and I enjoy the fitness of it,” he said.

Both fighters attribute their success to the top-quality

training they’ve received from Mr Kelly, resulting in a large catalogue of victories, trophies and belts.

“I’ve done three fights so far, I went into novice titles, that was my first fight in the 50kgs division and lost that and then went to the NQ Games and for my recent fight at the Ipswich Regional Championships I

Sport Results

MARLIN COAST BOWLS

Tuesday, July 16. Tuesday morning bowls winners: Barb, Peter. R/U: Laurie, Neil. Tuesday afternoon men’s triples winners: Jock, Bob S, Kevin. R/U: Dave P, Calvin, Andy M. Tuesday night bowls winners: Dennis, Peter, Brian, Judy, Dave, Deb, Fiona, Gin, Chriss.

Wednesday, July 17. Wednesday mixed bowls winners: Paul C, Barb Mc, Bob H. R/U: G Andersen, Roger lee, June Brown. Thursday, July 18. Thursday mixed self-selection triples winners: Nola, Garry B, Wayne H. R/U: Clive Eddie. Saturday, July 20. Saturday morning scroungers winner: J

picked up a win,” Mr Monk said.

“When I moved to Freedom Boxing, I fought with the Boxing Queensland Association, and I won a southeast Queensland title, novice titles, Sunshine Coast regional titles, and my most recent title is the Ipswich Regional Championship which happened on the last weekend of June,” Mr Lacandula said.

Jenner. R/U: S Freestone. Lotto Day winners: Jock, John R, Eddie. R/U: Peter, Meredith, David, Sandy A, Clive, Ross I.

BROTHERS EDMONTON

BOWLS

Men’s. Wednesday, July 17. Winners: J. Blain, B. Power, Q. Bates. Winners game 1: J. Jackson, R, Morris, G. Atkison. Winners game 2: G. Hickey, A. Smith, D. Stein. Saturday, July 20. Men’s clas-

Pride vs Seagulls

l RUGBY LEAGUE

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

AFTER a well-deserved break

Northern Pride are refreshed, focused and ready to take on the Wynnum Manly Seagulls in the upcoming Country Round in Cooktown tomorrow.

Pride, which currently sits number 1 on the ladder, is set to take on the Wynnum Manly Seagulls which are currently sitting sixth on the ladder, for the Country Round this Saturday in an encounter that is set to be thrilling.

opportunity to rest, recover, and regroup.

"It's a vital part of our season's strategy, allowing us to recharge both physically and mentally, ensuring we're in peak condition for the challenges ahead.

“I can feel the excitement building. This round holds a special place in our hearts, not just for the game itself, but for the opportunity to connect with our footprint and this year with the communities in and around Cooktown.

“Our match against the 6th placed Wynnum Manly Seagulls and is set to be a thrilling encounter.

“But my biggest achievement is that I’ve dedicated myself and have only lost once in the past three years. What I enjoy about training here is that our coach cares a lot about us, not only as fighters, but as people.”

Mr Lacandula is now hoping to pick up another Golden Gloves title in Brisbane and Mr Monk is aiming for a state title.

sic winners: Team Skinner. R/U: Team Lawton, Team Hall. Sunday, July 21. Men’s classic winners: Team Rooster. R/U: Team Populin, Team Tiraboschi.

Ladies. Thursday, July 18. Winners: R. Langtree, D. Gough, L. Catalano, S. Rowe. R/U: M. Girardi, M. Daffy, K. Paki.

MOSSMAN BOWLS

Saturday, July 20. Jackpot

Kick-off is at 3.30pm tomorrow at John Street Oval in Cooktown and Pride’s chief executive Garreth Smith is hoping the community takes the drive to support the team.

“I encourage everyone to come out and support the team in Cooktown. Your presence and energy make a tremendous difference, and together, we can create an unforgettable atmosphere,” he said.

“The bye week provided our players with a crucial

winners: David White, Sas, Bill Allison def. David Turnbull, Derek Franklin, Peter Gorsuch + 13. R/U: Barry Baker, Craig Sims def. Ray Prain, Graham Hutchinson + 11, Charlie Toohey, Mike Sims, Brian King def. Ted Holmes, Geoff Sims, Stephen Lee + 10, Bill Smith, Terry Richards, Joe Girgenti def. David Blain, Peter Worley, Dick Pitt + 2, Bernie Wolland, Daryl Hoskins, Bernie Savage def.

"The Seagulls are a formidable team, and we will need to be prepared to give our all on the field.

"I have no doubt that our players will rise to the occasion and deliver the desired result in front of the fans in Cooktown.”

Only five rounds remain before finals and Northern Pride is hoping to protect their spot at the top and crown themselves the champions of this year’s premiere.

Col Widdows, Ali Douglas, Warren McCoist + 0.

GORDONVALE BOWLS CLUB

Thursday, July 18. Raffle winner: Pater Mulkearns. Bowls winner: B Protheroe, Morris 1100, Dino Smith. R/U: J Jackson, B Walthers, J Kemp. A grade single winner: M Greenwood. R/U: A Quinn. B grade single winner: F Rich. R/U: J Kemp.

Boxers Aidan Monk (left) and Vincent Lacandula with coach Patrick Kelly Picture: Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

Winger Robert Derby in action against the Brisbane Tigers.

Crucial match at Manunda

Vital clash for North Cairns Tigers and Centrals Trinity Beach Bulldogs teams

Cairns Saints host Port Douglas Crocs CAIRNS Saints will be out looking for revenge against the Crocs this weekend at Griffiths Park.

The reverse fixture saw Port win their first ever game in the competition, but that remains the only win for either team so far in season 2024.

As is often the case, both teams have been better than their win/loss record suggests, and Saints will be desperate to get their first win on the board. It will come down to whether Saints can be more efficient and accurate inside forward 50, or if the Crocs can break down the resilient and desperate Saints defence early.

Prediction: Crocs by 10.

North Cairns Tigers host Centrals Trinity Beach Bulldogs A CRUCIAL clash for both teams at Watson’s on Saturday evening.

For the home team, they could go two games plus percentage clear of third, going a long way to sealing a double chance come finals time.

There is also the outside

chance they could sneak into first should Lions slip up again.

For the Dogs, a victory could see them end the round in the top four for the first time this season.

That will take an almighty effort from the Dogs. They will have to exploit the little to non-existent holes in a Tigers team that is firing on all cylinders.

The Dogs have surely been investigating the tape from the Tigers’ two defeats this season.

Prediction: Tigers by 16.

South Cairns Cutters host Cairns City Lions CUTTERS are looking to re-solidify their place in the top four after letting

the Dogs back in last week, losing their virtual “eightpointer”. They will face no tougher opponent than the ladder leading Lions, who have only lost once this season. That loss was against last season’s premiers the Hawks, so it can hardly be considered a bad loss. Saturday’s contest looms as an intriguing battle between contrasting styles. Lions have had slick ball movement through all parts of the ground (just look at their percentage) while Cutters have been bruising in their preference to do battle at the coal face and dominate contested possessions.

Preduction: Lions by 15.

Delphina Day had a day out with a best on ground performance against the Saints. (Above right) Daysia Creed-Wray is consistently amongst the Lions best performers. (Below) Nelly Anu helped Cairns City Lions stay on top of the Cairns Saints at ITEC Group Oval. Pictures: RAWI/AFL