Cairns Local News January 27 2023

Torres Strait Islander leader joins

FORMER Torres Strait Regional Authority Board Member and Kubin Island councillor David Bosun has joined not-for-profit remote store operator Community Enterprise Queensland (CEQ) to further drive community and stakeholder engagement across the region.

Mr Bosun, who hails from Kubin (Moa) in the Torres Strait, has been appointed by CEQ as its new Community Enterprise and Stakeholder Engagement Manager.

He has previously worked with the Australian Government Community Development Employment Projects initiative and as a Divisional Manager, Environmental Health Worker and Councillor for Torres Strait Island Regional Council (Kubin).

Mr Bosun, who is also a

renowned artist, said he felt honoured to join the organisation.

“It’s an absolute privilege and honour to be blessed with the opportunity to continue to serve the region’s Indigenous communities,” Mr Bosun said.

“I’ve gained a wealth of experience and have built many strategic alliances and partnerships across the Torres Strait while serving under community and local government, which will complement our very capable CEQ team.”

CEQ Chief Executive Officer Michael Dykes said he was delighted to welcome someone of Mr Bosun’s standing in the Torres Strait community to the organisation.

“David brings a vast amount of knowledge and experience to our team, and the relationships he’s established at all

levels of community and government in the Torres Strait will add immense value to this role,” Mr Dykes said.

“David’s appointment is further proof that CEQ invests in bringing people into the organisation who live and work in the communities we serve.

“His understanding of our business and the part we play in the social and economic fabric of Torres Strait Island communities is significant, and I welcome him into our team.”

CEQ is a not-for-profit organisation responsible for providing goods and essential services to the Torres Strait, Northern Peninsula Area (NPA), mainland Aboriginal remote communities, and Palm Island through its 28 stores.

CEQ manages Islanders Board of Industry and Service (IBIS) and Aboriginal Busi-

ness, Industry and Service (ABIS) stores, as well as other stores, including Col Jones, Mona’s Bazaar and Mitre 10 on Thursday Island.

For more information on CEQ, visit www.ceqld.org.au

CHILDREN IN CAIRNS MISSING OUT ON CRITICAL EYE CHECKS

AUSTRALIAN children aged eight and under are spending an average of 2.5 hours per day on screensmore than double the World Health Organisation’s recommendations.

In Cairns, 20,101 children up to nine years of age could be spending too much time on screens, unknowingly increasing their risk of myopia (short-sightedness).

Cairns Optometrists are calling for parents and carers to include an eye test on their health checklist ahead of the new school year.

Along with the alarming screen time statistics, 86 per cent of parents say they are concerned about the amount of time their child spends on screens and its impact on their eye health.

The research found that children have access to multiple devices within the home, including a TV (76 per cent), tablet (65 per cent), mobile phone (48 per cent), computer (40 per cent) and hand-held gaming device (22 per cent).

Cairns Central Shopping Centre Specsavers Optometrist David Thrower said children needed eye tests now more than ever.

“As Optometrists, we like

to encourage parents and carers to ensure their children have their first eye test before starting school to detect and correct or manage any issues, so they don’t go untreated,” Mr Thrower said.

“Children’s eyes are still developing during their schooling years, and myopia, or as its more commonly known, short-sightedness, is on the rise in children globally.

“Screen time is typically unavoidable between school, study and entertainment, but I encourage parents and carers to ensure young children get adequate breaks from screens and ‘close up’ work to avoid digital eye strain or developing myopia.

“Children who spend more than three hours a day on screens are more likely to have had their eyes tested as a result of already experiencing headaches and blurry vision,” he said.

“If your child complains about headaches, blurred vision, trouble focusing or any other issues with their eyes, I recommend booking an appointment with an Optometrist immediately rather than waiting until their next check-up.”

Mr Thrower’s top tips for digital eye strain include:

• Remind children to blink.

Blinking keeps the surface of your eyes from drying out.

• Keep a bottle of water close by. Your eyes dry out when you’re dehydrated so making sure children drink plenty of water throughout the day is essential.

• Follow the 20-20-20 rule.

This means every 20 minutes remind children to shift their eyes to look at an object at least 20 metres away for at least 20 seconds. The easiest way to do this is to

take small ‘window’ breaks and look at a distant object to give tired eyes a break from the screen.

• Make sure that during the school week, children play outside or step away from the screen to do another activity to give their eyes a break.

It is recommended that children of all ages get a routine eye test every two years unless directed otherwise by their optometrist.

To book your appointment or for more information, go to www.specsavers.com.au/stores

David Bosun the new CEQ Community Enterprise and Stakeholder Engagement Manager

Image supplied by Specsavers

Cairns honours community heroes in Australia Day Awards

In a ceremony at the Pullman Reef Hotel Casino on Wednesday, Majella Fallon, the Head of the Department for the Arts at Smithfield State High School (SHS), was recognised for her service to others, an enduring community spirit, and her dedication to promoting the arts, especially to young people.

Ms Fallon is also president of FNQ Bands, a member of the Rotary Club of Cairns Northern Beaches and a member of the Smithfield SHS P&C Association.

Cairns Mayor Bob Manning said that Ms Fallon embodied selfless dedication and inspiration, fitting attributes for someone awarded one of the city’s highest honours.

“The fact that students have described her as their ‘school mum’ speaks to her character as someone who always has time to give a caring word and helpful advice,” Cr Manning said.

“She is a passionate woman who is an inspiration to her peers and someone who doesn’t stand by and wait for others to act when she sees a need; she finds a solution and gets to work.”

Ms Fallon said she was honoured to be recognised for her small actions towards making a difference.

“I never realised that I would be in the running, that the small things that I do matter,” she said.

“I’ve been teaching for 37 years, and I love being able to make a difference and I’m double blessed because I get to do that with my passion and love for music.

“Education is more than academic achievement; we’re entrusted with developing and growing and loving our future generations.

“A school day can be very long for a child who hasn’t had a great day or is underprivileged, so little things make a difference; a kind word, a smile, positive affirmations can really help,” Ms Fallon said.

Young Citizen of the Year, Alannah Giuffrida, was recognised for her extensive work, often behind the scenes, with the Northern Pride Rugby League Club, Connected Communities FNQ and the Cairns Chamber of Commerce. She holds a Bachelor of Business from JCU, with a double major in sports and events management and Hospitality and Tourism Management, and received numerous awards for her academic achievements.

“Alannah is a highly motivated young person who has used her skills to advance local organisations and community groups, as well as assisting others in reaching their goals,” Cr Manning said.

“When I see her achievements, I feel confident that our next wave of leaders will propel our city in the right direction.”

Ms Giuffrida said the award came as an absolute shock to her.

“Everything that I do, I do not because I wanted to get an award; I do it because I’m very passionate about it,” she said.

“I’m at the Cairns Chamber of Commerce, and we work with so many amazing local businesses, and I really want to see where that goes.

“We do the Business Excellence Awards and the Emerging Leaders Program, and I really want to see those young leaders and businesses thrive in our community.”

Hannah Boon has been named Volunteer of the Year, while Kushla Phillips was also recognised in the same category with a highly commended award.

Sebastian Temesi enjoyed an outstanding 2022 in the sport of judo and has been named Cairns Sportsperson of the Year, while Edan Mattinson has capped off a remarkable 12 months to be Junior Sportsperson of the Year.

James Kerr received the Cultural Award for his work in helping at-risk and vulnerable Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and youth.

Cr Manning congratulated the recipients of the 2023 Cairns Community Awards.

“These individuals represent everything great about our region,” he said.

“They are wonderful role models for our city and very much deserving of this special honour.”

AWARD RECIPIENTS:

• Citizen of the Year – Majella Fallon

• Young Citizen of the Year – Alannah Giuffrida

• Volunteer of the Year – Hannah Boon

• Volunteer of the Year – Highly commended Kushla Phillips

• Cultural Award – James Kerr

• Sportsperson of the Year – Sebastian Temesi

• Junior Sportsperson of the Year – Edan Mattinson

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A SECONDARY school teacher who students have described as their “school mum” has been named Cairns Citizen of the Year.

Citizen of the Year Majella Fallon receiving her award from Mayor Bob Manning

L-R: Hannah Boon, Edan Mattinson, James Kerr, Sebastian Temesi, Alannah Giuffrida each receiving their awards from Mayor Bob Manning

Meaningful Mentorship

FAR North Queensland Emergency Services Gala Ball is thrilled to announce they have nominated Harbrow Mentoring as the beneficiary for the 2023 Gala Ball.

FNQESA president JohnByron Bacalakis said Harbrow Mentoring assists in improving the lives and skills of young people in Far North Queensland.

“Marc and his team help divert kids away from crime and offer them mentoring through leadership and sport, which is so important,” Mr Bacalakis said.

The association is pleased to be able to raise funds so the not-for-profit can continue to make a difference in the lives of the youth and guide them towards a solid and prosperous future.

Off the back of 2022, the FNQ Emergency Services Association is gearing up for another record-breaking Gala Ball, Mr Bacalakis said.

“We are grateful that the community gets behind the event,” he said.

“Each year, we are blown away by the generosity of the public and the emergency services personnel, who donate their time and money to make it all possible.

“People are so excited about the Gala Ball that we’ve already had inquiries from people wanting to book their table. Rest assured; we will have lots of tables available, games, good music and danc-

ing planned for the night. So, get ready to let your hair down.

“We are still on the lookout for more sponsors in the leadup to this year’s event. The more sponsorship we can get, the more we can assist the beneficiary,” Mr Bacalakis said.

Brothers Jarrod and Marc Harbrow have run Harbrow Mentoring full-time for three and a half years in Far North Queensland. Reaching out and showing the youth that someone cares, can help break down social barriers and be life-changing.

“Through Harbrow Mentoring, we hone in and focus on three key pillars: leadership, mentoring, and sports. Using sports as a vehicle to address important education messages to young people and their families,” Co-Founder Marc said.

“Many of our programs have an indigenous focus, but we are highly visible in the multicultural and non-Indigenous spaces, with boys and girls and men and women.”

The team of five at Harbrow Mentoring are passionate about assisting young people and their communities in striving for better health and educational outcomes. Most of their programs require transport to different locations around the region.

“We’ve been looking for some time now how to connect with companies who have people movers or find some form of sponsorship or support around transport because

transport plays a big role within what we do at Harbrow Mentoring,” Marc said.

“The money we receive will go towards a permanent form of transport,” he said

Last year FNQ Emergency Services Association sold almost 900 tickets in under three weeks, the fastest in the event’s history, and raised $39,482.00 for Rosies – Friends on the Street.

Funding to support access to aged care services

NORTHERN Queensland

Primary Health Network (NQPHN) is looking for service providers to deliver additional support to older people across North Queensland as part of the new Care Finders initiative.

NQPHN Chief Executive Officer Robin Whyte said the Australian Government’s Care Finder program supports those vulnerable older people who have no one else who can support them, to access aged care services and other supports in the community.

“Care Finder services will provide intensive, face-to-

face support to older persons who are isolated or have no support person and who may be finding it difficult to access the care and support they need,” Ms Whyte said.

“Care Finders can help vulnerable older people navigate the aged care system to find support services to improve their quality of life, whether providing help to access services for the first time or changing or finding new services and supports.

“If someone requires Care Finder services, then a local organisation can connect them with a dedicated Care

Finder.

“The Care Finder will visit them, usually in person, to firstly understand the person’s situation and then work through the steps to address their needs,” she said.

The Care Finder program is part of a suite of aged care reforms responding to the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety.

Ms Whyte said NQPHN had released a Request for Tender (RFT) to find lead providers that have demonstrated local connections, specialist skills, and experience in supporting older persons.

“We are looking for organisations with experience in providing health and wellbeing services to older persons in North Queensland,” Ms Whyte said.

“They should also have experience in intensive case management delivery models and operational, financial, and clinical governance.

“Providers who can deliver quality services that are integrated across the human and health service sectors, that promote consumer choice and reablement, and who have experience working with vulnerable populations will

also be highly desired.”

NQPHN and the lead providers, selected from the RFT process, will work closely with communities within the Torres and Cape, Cairns and Hinterland, Townsville, and Mackay Hospital and Health Service regions to ensure Care Finder services respond to local needs, are integrated with the broader aged and health care system, and deliver improved health and wellbeing outcomes for older people.

“We have undertaken a considerable health needs assessment and completed sub-

stantial planning to ensure the Care Finder initiative meets the needs of North Queenslanders,” Ms Whyte said.

“We look forward to working with the prospective lead providers on establishing and implementing Care Finder services to improve the wellbeing of older persons in the region.”

Organisations wishing to submit a tender application can visit NQPHN’s online procurement portal at www. nqphn.com.au/commissioning/etenderbox

The RFT closes on February 15, 2023.

Top: Harbrow Mentoring are the 2023 FNQESA Beneficiary Below: Far North Queensland Emergency Services Association Committee

Speed cameras switched on in Qld school zones

NEW speed cameras fixed inside flashing school zone signs were switched on for the first time on Monday, January 23, across Queensland.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the purpose-built cameras were part of a world-first pilot designed to protect students during their daily travels.

“I’m pleased to announce that new cameras will target speeding drivers in school zones to keep Queensland kids, parents and teachers safe,” Mr Bailey said.

“Children can be unpredictable and are especially vulnerable to vehicles travelling at speed.

“I don’t want to see someone’s child badly injured or killed on their way to school just because of the recklessness of a speeding driver.

“These cameras will pop up in high-risk locations from Monday, targeting reckless drivers who speed through school zones.

“It’s vital we do everything we can to keep the vulnerable in our community safe on our roads, and these cameras will help to achieve that.

“With students heading back to school, we’re putting this new enforcement technology into action to encourage safer

driving in school zones,” he said.

Education Minister Grace Grace said the cameras would be rotated across prioritised high-risk school zones statewide during the pilot program.

“Unfortunately, drivers still aren’t getting the message, with speeding continuing to be a major contributor to serious crashes on Queensland roads,” Ms Grace said.

“Sticking to the speed limit gives you a better chance of stopping in time if needed and can mean the difference between life and death or severe injury to a pedestrian, especially a school-aged child.

“We all are responsible for driving safely and slowing down when children are around.”

The new speed cameras will be operational during school zone hours. Motorists caught exceeding the speed limit will be fined and accrue demerit points.

Mr Bailey said the innovative RBMS would also monitor school crossing movements.

“We know there have been many instances of vehicles not stopping for school crossings, despite the crossing supervisors and students accessing the road at the time,” he said.

“When activated by the presence of a school crossing supervisor, the RBMS can monitor and record any nearhits or traffic and road safety incidents.

“This allows us to collect and analyse incident details to help inform future road safety improvements.”

RACQ General Manager of Advocacy Joshua Cooney said the Club was concerned too many motorists still did not take school zone speed limits seriously.

“Our latest Road Safety Survey showed that despite almost 90 per cent of Queenslanders driving their kids to school, half admitted to speeding in a school zone. It’s simply not good enough,” Mr Cooney said.

“School zone speed limits are not optional; they must be enforced to keep our kids safe.

“Every child should be able to get to and from school safely, and as drivers, we all have a responsibility to make sure that happens.”

Further information can be found at: www.tmr.qld.gov. au/safety/road-safety/speedcamera-signs-pilot-in-schoolzones-and-roadworks, or click on https://bit.ly/3ZUXU7R in our online edition.

New gulf flights to take off

A TRIAL of new gulf aviation services will start in March, boosting tourism in Far North Queensland.

Acting Premier Steven Miles announced on January 19 that the Palaszczuk Government would invest $1.2 million in a 10-month trial with Regional Express Airlines (Rex) to operate the services.

The trial will start on March 6 and introduce additional flights

on Mondays and Fridays for the remote communities of Normanton and Mornington Island.

The Acting Premier said Mondays and Fridays were busy days for travel throughout the gulf. These additional flights would provide extra capacity to ensure more people could travel to the gulf.

“The Monday flight will take off from Cairns and stop in Normanton before travelling to Mornington Island and then returning to Cairns,” Mr Miles said.

“The Friday service will leave from Cairns and stop on Mornington Island first before stopping in Normanton and returning to Cairns.

“These flights will provide additional capacity to ensure essential services are delivered in the gulf, and they will also provide better access to health, education and employment in regional centres such as Cairns and Mount Isa.

“The flights will also provide a boost for tourism to ensure more people can travel to and experience one of the most beautiful and unique parts of the country,” he said.

Assistant Minister for Tourism Industry Development and Member for

“More flights means more people passing through Cairns Airport, which is great news for our local economy,” Mr Healy said.

“This trial will complement the existing gulf-regulated air route, which provides services for the communities of Burketown and Doomadgee in addition to Normanton and Mornington Island.

“Whether it’s the gulf or the reef, Cairns is the gateway to so many tourism adventures.”

Rex General Manager of Network Strategy Warrick Lodge, said the airline had operated Gulf route services in partnership with TMR since January 2015.

“The record passenger numbers achieved during 2022 are a testament to the safe, reliable and affordable services we have delivered to the communities over the past eight years,” Mr Lodge said.

“The increase in capacity supports this growth in demand and will be instrumental in enhancing the social and economic wellbeing of these remote communities in 2023.”

Residents are encouraged to use these additional services as the performance of the trial service will be assessed before a decision on the future of the services is made before the end of 2023.

More information on Queensland’s long-distance air services can be found on the Department of Transport and Main Road website at www.tmr.qld.gov.au/

Cairns Michael Healy said additional flights were good news for Far North Queensland.

RECENT school leavers and Queenslanders looking to upskill or change careers are encouraged to enrol in one of the 37,000 Fee-Free TAFE places available in 2023.

Federal Minister for Skills and Training Brendan O’Connor encouraged Queenslanders to make 2023 their year.

“If you’ve been thinking about studying something new or upskilling, now is the time as Fee-Free TAFE and vocational education and training courses in Queensland are open for enrolments,” Mr O’Connor said.

“Skills shortages are gripping the nation, and those running through Queensland reflect the specific characteristics of the state’s labour market.

“These include health and community services (to support the NDIS and aged care sectors), agriculture, and tourism and hospitality.

“It is vital that we support people locally to obtain the skills they need to fill job vacancies,” he said.

Minister for Training and Skills Development Di Farmer said Fee-Free TAFE is an excellent opportunity for recent graduates to create a pathway to their dream careers.

“Fee-Free TAFE training in 2023 will provide a wonderful stepping stone to an ideal career for recent school leavers, especially if they’re currently undecided about what they’d like to do,” Minister Farmer said.

The most popular courses include:

• Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care

• Diploma of Community Services

• Diploma of Business

• Diploma of Nursing (*eligible to First Nations Australian, people with disability or people from

cultural and linguistically diverse backgrounds)

• Certificate III in School-Based Education Support

• Certificate III in Information Technology

• Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care

• Certificate III in Individual Support and Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability)

• Certificate IV in Cyber Security

• Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping.

Minister Farmer said 84 per cent of TAFE Queensland graduates go into employment or further study.

“We want young Queenslanders seizing good job opportunities and enjoying our state’s great lifestyle, which means training now for the jobs of the future,” the Minister said.

“On our frontline, we need more

nurses supporting better health outcomes right around the state, which is why we’re offering the Diploma of Nursing to eligible cohorts – First Nations Australians, people with disability and people from diverse backgrounds.”

She said as more people train in the available courses, it will assist these sectors in filling their job gaps and address workforce shortages.

“At a time when our employers need more skilled workers, I urge all Queenslanders to learn about these free courses and change your life by training for a career you are passionate about,” Minister Farm said.

TAFE Queensland Chief Executive Officer Mary Campbell said Queenslanders eligible for Fee-Free TAFE funding would have the opportunity to enrol in one of over 80 skill sets, certificates and diploma-level quali-

fications currently on offer at TAFE Queensland.

“Child care workers, welfare support workers, office managers and ICT technicians are all in high demand throughout Queensland, so it’s encouraging that most of our current enrolments are in sectors with recognised skills shortages,” Mrs Campbell said.

“The most popular Fee-Free TAFE qualifications people are currently enrolling in at TAFE Queensland include our Diploma of Business, Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care and Diploma of Community Services.”

Minister Farmer said the 37,000 Fee-Free TAFE places had been chosen to address Queensland’s current and future skills needs, and places would be demand-driven.

TAFE Queensland and Central Queensland University are delivering Fee-Free TAFE in Queensland in 2023.

https://desbt.qld.gov.au/training/training-careers/incentives/fee-free-tafe

Festive season holidaymakers deliver $3 billion

FESTIVE season holidays across Queensland are on track to deliver more than $3 billion to tourism operators and the State’s visitor economy.

Tourism Minister Stirling Hinchliffe said from December 10 to January 9, 2023, Queensland and interstate holidaymakers generated 15 million visitor nights, up almost 2.5 per cent on the 2021 festive season.

“This initial Christmas school holiday data shows Queensland’s domestic tourism recovery remains strong, on track and nation-leading,” Mr Hinchliffe said.

“In more great news for Queensland jobs and tourism operators, this festive season’s more than $3 billion holiday spend will continue to grow ahead of Australia Day.

“By the end of the holidays, it’s predicted the total number of visitors travelling to Queens-

land’s world-class destinations will be more than 1.5 million.

“As the first Christmas holiday season since the lifting of national COVID restrictions, Queensland continues to benefit from Australians’ love of travel.

“The number of interstate arrivals enjoying Queensland’s great holiday lifestyle jumped by 123 per cent during December alone, delivering a bumper Christmas for most destinations.

“Tourism and Events Queensland data shows Brisbane leads the top five destinations for interstate arrivals, followed by the Gold and Sunshine Coasts, Tropical North Queensland and the Southern Great Barrier Reef,” he said.

Queensland Tourism Industry Council CEO Brett Fraser said across the State, demand for Christmas holiday accommodation was up by almost 10 per cent.

“The feedback from Queensland tourism operators this festive season is overwhelmingly positive, and that’s a good sign for ongoing recovery in the year ahead,” Mr Fraser said.

“Many operators report a noticeable increase in interstate visitors compared with Christmas 2021 as Australians shake off the pandemic.

“Holiday accommodation occupancy on the Sunshine Coast and the Whitsundays is near capacity at 90 per cent, with some providers booked out.

“On the Gold Coast, occupancy rates are at almost 84 per cent and have averaged up to 80 per cent in Tropical North Queensland, including Cairns and Port Douglas.

“While Queensland holiday bookings have been solid, there are last-minute vacancies in most destinations for an Australia Day long

weekend getaway,” he said.

Tourism Research Australia’s latest survey, released yesterday, recorded 2.44 million overnight visitor trips in Queensland during October 2022.

The survey logged a five per cent increase in regional Queensland overnight visitor trips to 1.47 million compared with October 2019, before the pandemic.

Overnight visitor spending across Queensland during October was up by almost $1 billion on pre-pandemic data.

In coming weeks, Tourism and Events Queensland will roll out a new suite of compelling Queensland holiday deals and experiences to drive extra domestic visitor demand during February and March.

Workshop reveals plans to improve water trading

A WORKSHOP hosted by FNQ Growers has delivered an update on a project which aims to help improve water trading on the Tablelands.

The project aimed to continue the engagement with the Tableland’s grower community, share information about the digital water market and understand the areas of focus for the project team to refine its grower-led design.

The workshop was part of the Scaling Next-Generation Water Markets in Northern Australia project, co-funded by CRC for Developing Northern Australia and led by Civic Ledger and Inclusive Growth Partners with FNQ Growers.

The next generation water market will remove the need for intermediaries and create accessible and up-to-date water market information

on availability and price for both temporary and permanent water allocations.

FNQ Growers President Joe Moro said the project aimed to deliver a more transparent, efficient approach to water management for temporary and permanent allocations.

He said the project, to be rolled out across the Tablelands, would include irrigation system water and groundwater.

“It’s an innovative approach to water management,” Mr Moro said.

“One of the key benefits will be the live water market data – which means irrigators will be able to see what water is available immediately, in turn, helping them with critical on-farm decisions during peak periods where water markets play an important role to meet ad-

ditional water demands.”

Civic Ledger Chief Executive Officer Katrina Donaghy said the project would look to recruit irrigators to trial the digital water market between April and June 2023.

“The vision is to create a next-generation water market that operates like a share market – controlled by the Tableland’s grower community,” Ms Donaghy said.

The project team will be looking for members interested in engaging in the digital water market pilot, members who are already using on-farm digital technologies to help with farm management or members who are active in water markets or would be if there was a better way to trade water.

An expression of interest will be published on FNQ Growers’ Facebook page in mid-March 2023.

Local students ready for work

NATIONAL Joblink (NJL), a local training and youth services organization, are celebrating this week their students’ successful completion of two programs: Brand New Adventures and Culture Connect.

The programs, funded by the Queensland Government under Skilling Queenslanders for Work, have provided essential training and experience opportunities in both Tourism and Hospitality – which will significantly boost local businesses needing skilled workers.

“We provide wrap-around support for students even before the programs start,” Manager Kim Homer said.

“While students progress through study, they are given opportunities to develop work and life skills while building their networks.”

Both programs are designed around experiential learning,

with a lot of time spent out of the classroom exploring the natural wonders and tourism opportunities in FNQ. They also include adventure-based activities to build essential work and life skills such as teamwork, resilience, leadership and communication skills.

“During the five-day camp, I learnt so many useful skills,” Graduate student Talisha Collyer said.

“It took me out of my comfort zone and made me reach out to people. Speaking out. I never used to be a leader until I took this course.”

Culture Connect focused on hospitality skills and included real industry work experience with local businesses, including NJL’s not-for-profit restaurant, Wild Thyme.

In addition to the students’ success, collaboration with NJL’s Time2Drive has culminated in several students achieving their Prep Ls

and gaining essential hours towards the 100 required to go for their driving license.

“Having the opportunity and encouragement to pursue driving lessons is an empowering experience. A life-changing moment for everyone and a chance to secure employment with confidence, higher selfesteem and a driver’s licence,” Ms Homer said.

The graduation events for Brand New Adventures and Culture Connect are being held this week at Wild Thyme for students and their families.

National Joblink is sending a callout to all local businesses to get on board with these new programs – to contact the office on Spence Street and register their interest.

“We have graduates ready for work and new programs starting in February – with a record number of applicants,” Ms Homer said.

Coral reef sharks and rays may be at risk of extinction

JCU’s Professor Colin Simpfendorfer was part of an international team of researchers that evaluated the extinction risk of all 134 coral reef sharks and ray species.

He said coral reefs are one of the most at-risk ecosystems from global climate change, with sharks and rays crucial for the functioning of coral reef ecosystems and covering a range of ecological niches - from filter feeders to apex predators.

“We found 59 per cent of coral reef shark and ray species are threatened with extinction, making them the most threatened group in the world other than marine mammals,” Professor Simpfendorfer said.

He said the researchers found fishing was the main threat to these species, compounded by habitat loss and climate change.

“Risk is greatest for larger species that live in shallower

water and are widely distributed across a number of national jurisdictions, so subject to a patchwork of management,” Professor Simpfendorfer said.

“Risk also increases for animals living in the waters of nations with greater fishing pressure and weaker governance,” he said.

Professor Simpfendorfer said the study showed the extinction risk for coral reef sharks and rays, as a percentage of threatened species, is almost double that of all 1,199 known shark and ray species.

“What we need to see is immediate action through local protections, combined with broad-scale fisheries management and Marine Protected Areas,” he said.

“This is required to avoid extinctions and the loss of critical ecosystem function - condemning reefs to a loss of biodiversity and ecosystem services, limiting livelihoods and food security,” Professor Simpfendorfer said.

“This research is yet another wake-up call for the Australian and Queensland governments to do more to

“When you are allowed to fish for endangered scalloped hammerheads in the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef, you know you’ve got problems in your own backyard.

“Sharks are critical to the health of the oceans and reefs. They keep the ecosystem balanced and without them, food webs can become unstable and possibly collapse.

“Just last year the World Heritage Committtee’s scientific advisers, UNESCO and the IUCN, recommended that gillnets be removed from Reef waters. The Queensland Government must immediately remove gillnets from the waters of the Great Barrier Reef,” he said.

(L-R) Cassian Drew (Inclusive Growth), Leanne Kruss (FNQ Growers) Katrina Donaghy (Civic Ledger) and Joe Moro (FNQ Growers

NEARLY two-thirds of coral reef shark and ray species worldwide are threatened with extinction, according to a James Cook University scientist.

Australian Marine Conservation Society shark scientist and conservation lead Dr Leonardo Guida said the Government had to act now.

protect the Great Barrier Reef,” Dr Guida said.

Main: Blacktip reef sharks (Carcharhinus melanopterus) on a coral reef in Fiji. This species is assessed as Vulnerable globally.

Photo credit: Colin Simpfendorfer.

Inset: A cowtail stingray (Pastinachus atrus) swims over coral on the Great Barrier Reef. This species was assessed as Vulnerable globally. Photo credit: Colin Simpfendorfer.

Front Row: (L/R) Madeline Williamson, Talisha Collyer, Shaqkayla Major, Meika Smith, Jaida Nicholls, Z’hane Brown, Sky Smith. Back Row: (L/R) Matthew Corporal, Akee Maza.

VOCAL LOCAL

WHY do people think they can let their dogs yap all day without consequences?

Know what your animals get up to when you’re not there, if they howl all day, people get really really annoyed.

Al, Southside

Want to be heard? Send a text to the Editor 0438 195 408 or email letters@cairnslocalnews.com.au

I HAVE to say it is wonderful that Toyah will finally have some closure with the return of the accused from India. I do however wonder with all the media attention, how likely it is that he will get a fair trial.

Bec, Edmonton

WHEN I think of the Qld Premier’s dismissive thoughts regarding ‘youth crime,’ it brings me back to the great Aussie movie The Castle: “Tell her she’s dreamin”. Noel, Cairns

New laws to increase hate crime penalties

THE Palaszczuk Government will introduce new laws early this month to increase penalties for hate crimes and serious vilification offences.

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Shannon Fentiman said legislation would soon be introduced to Parliament to amend existing offences in Queensland.

“We intend to amend several offences in the Queensland Statute Book to provide for cir-

cumstances of aggravation, increasing the maximum penalty where the offence is motivated by hatred or serious contempt for a member of a specified group,” The Attorney said.

“We will also amend the existing offence of serious racial, religious, sexuality or gender identity vilification in the Anti-Discrimination Act 1991 by removing the existing requirement that a proceeding for this offence may not be

commenced without the written consent of either the myself or the Director of Public Prosecutions, relocating it to the Criminal Code and increasing the maximum penalty to three years imprisonment.”

The Attorney said they held a roundtable with members of the multicultural community, to hear directly from them about how to approach these reforms, and their feedback supported the proposed approach.

Expansion of safety initiatives at The Boulders

IMPROVED signage, an education campaign, and stronger enforcement are among actions Council will take to improve safety at The Boulders, in Babinda.

A safety review of the site was undertaken by Council following several recent drownings in the vicinity.

A report tabled at Council on wednesday detailed key findings and made several recommendations to improve safety.

Division 1 Councillor Brett Moller said that Council had made many improvements at the site over the years, and welcomed plans to further enhance safety for visitors.

“Unfortunately, since 1916, there have been 21 recorded deaths at The Boulders, including three tragedies in the past few years,” Cr Moller said.

“Over the past decade, Council has undertaken numerous actions to improve safety.

“This includes the introduction of ‘No Go Zones’, permanently closed area around Devil’s Pool, The Chute and Washing Machine, improved areas where it was safe to swim to deter people from swimming in other areas, installation of warning signs, and extra fencing.

“This latest report has identified five recommendations, which build on Council previous actions, to prevent further tragedies.”

The report also found that people aged 18-34 were at most at risk of drowning, the average rainfall in the catchment area is the highest average rainfall in Australia (7,950mm), and that hazards at the site made it extremely dangerous and made it difficult for rescue efforts.

“As always, safety first and foremost means being aware of your surroundings and the potential risks and taking personal re-

sponsibility to not put yourself in harm’s way,” Cr Moller added.

Recommendations are:

• Improve visitor data collection (installation of basic surveillance equipment, and a visitor and vehicle counter)

• Improve visitor engagement

• Site signage improvements (use of signage with targeted and clear messaging about drowning hazards, more promotion of the safe swimming area, and communication of cultural significance of the site)

• Education and engagement campaign (use of digital and social media, collaboration with tourism operators, interactive messaging about drowning hazards)

• Enforcement improvements.

Council will now develop a plan to implement the latest recommendations.

New Qld nature refuges protect 166,000ha

MORE than 166,000 hectares of critical habitat – equivalent to the size of Cairns – will be protected in a partnership between the Queensland Palaszczuk Government and several property owners in the state’s north.

Environment Minister Meaghan Scanlon announced on Tuesday, January 24, the creation of two new nature refuges northwest of Mt Isa and the expansion of another two nature refuges:

one 300km northwest of Cairns, the other 45km southwest of Bowen.

Nature refuges are a class of private protected areas under the state’s Nature Conservation Act and are administered by a legally binding conservation agreement between a landholder and the government.

“Queenslanders have made it clear: they want us to continue to protect our environment and great lifestyle,” Minister Scanlon said.

“This announcement joins our record $262.5 million investment to expand and create new national parks and areas of conservation to ultimately build upon our 14 million hectares of protected areas in Queensland.”

The Artemis Antbed Parrot Nature Refuge is situated 300 kilometres northwest of Cairns and protects vital habitat for the endangered goldenshouldered parrot and other wildlife.

This nature refuge will grow by 103,059 hectares to cover a total of 105,175 hectares.

“Our thing has always been to look after the country,” Tom Shephard, co-owner of Artemis Antbed Parrot Nature Refuge, said.

“We’ve lived on Artemis for most of our lives, and we know it and care for it deeply.

“We’ve always tried to do things right, so our cattle business is viable, but we’re also looking after the Golden-shouldered Parrot and other wildlife.

“So we’re very happy and grateful to the Queensland Government for the chance to extend our conservation work,” Mr Shephard said.

Meanwhile, the Mount Pleasant Nature Refuge, which lies 45 kilometres southwest of Bowen, will expand to 1,540 hectares, an increase of 287 hectares.

Two separate land parcels of around 30,000 hectares are to become the new Norfolk Nature Refuge and Herbertvale Nature Refuge, 200 and 260 kilometres northwest of Mount Isa, respectively.

Minister Scanlon said the Palaszczuk Government would invest $1.6 million to protect and support the immense biodiversity and habitats suitable for various endangered species.

“We selected these pristine locations which adjoin existing protected areas to preserve the conservation values of the area further and ensure our wildlife will thrive,” she said. The new and expanded Nature refuges are:

• Artemis Antbed Parrot Nature Refuge, 300km northwest of Cairns (expansion) –additional 103,059 hectares bringing total to 105,175 hectares

Mount Pleasant Nature Refuge, 45km southwest of Bowen (expansion) – additional 287 hectares bringing total to 1,540 hectares

• Norfolk Nature Refuge, 200km northwest of Mount Isa (new) – Over 30,000 hectares

• Herbertvale, 260km northwest of Mount Isa (new) – close to 30,000 hectares.

For more information on Queensland’s budget for the environment, including the record national parks investment, visit: https://statements.qld.gov.au/statements/95473

Library program builds children’s literacy skills

Sharing stories, reading, singing, and playing are all important to a child’s development.

Cairns Libraries delivers a range of free First 5 Forever family programs for children aged 0-5 and their parents and carers.

The program aims to develop language and literacy skills, and connects parents and caregivers to a range of resources and ideas.

Visit the Cairns Libraries website at www.cairns.qld.gov.au/library for session times and more details.

First 5 Forever is an initiative of the Queensland Government, coordinated by State Library of Queensland and delivered in partnership with local government.

n

9.36am

6 February: 2.90m at 9.58am

2.85m at 10.17am.

Draper St, Parramatta Park: Kerb and channel renewal between Grimshaw St and Terminus St. Detours in place.

Mulgrave Rd, Earlville: Bus stop upgrade near Marsh St. Temporary bus stop relocation.

Oleander St, Holloways Beach: Water main and pavement renewal between Casia St and Caribbean St. Temporary road closures and detours.

Pease St, Edge Hill: Kerb and channel renewal between Greenslopes St and Glenlea St. Temporary lane closures.

Russell St, Edge Hill: Water main works. Traffic and pedestrian control.

Vasey Esplanade, Trinity Beach: Water main replacement from Trinity Beach Rd to Possum St. Traffic and pedestrian control.

For a full list of works visit our website.

Mossman’s Land of Plenty!

I’VE covered Mossman Support Services in the ‘Goss’ on a few occasions before and this is hardly surprising considering the energy of the team that runs it, the amazing volunteers involved and the many activities that occur within the grounds of this great local asset. The latest idea is one of my favourites so far, in the form of a Community Resilience Garden.

To further explain, it is an urban tropical garden showcasing an ever-growing array of seasonal and perennial edible fruits, nuts, herbs, spices and vegetables, nestled right in the heart of Mossman. Yes, that’s what you’ll now find at the Mossman Support Services Mill Street headquarters, where the perimeters have been recently planted out with over 50 different varieties of tropical edible plants.

It gets better though as now there are plans to triple that edible footprint with the idea to transform the remaining onsite ornamental gardens into tropical edible spaces.

The team told me their aim is to create a dynamic learning space which not only showcases, ‘in real time’, all aspects of

edible gardening in the tropics, but which also encourages and grows connection to their broader community through the sharing of local knowledge in the growing, preparing and cooking of both exotic tropical and native plants which thrive in the Douglas Shire.

The Community Resilience Garden will do this by hosting regular cook and share workshops where they showcase selected tropical edibles and by also hosting regular deep dive workshops into topics like soil building, composting, organic pest management, seed saving and propagation all while further developing the edible garden spaces onsite.

The Community Resilience Garden will even host a monthly ‘community kitchen takeover’ where volunteer participants spend a morning harvesting and preparing locally-grown produce for the community lunch program, operated by Mossman Support Services Community Centre.

It is, indeed, a fantastic opportunity for them to connect the garden to the kitchen, in an impactful way, whilst sharing a little

more about how to utilise herbs, spices, tropical carbs and greens which grow up here in our unique environment, whilst feeding our community.

It is in this way, Mossman Support Services hope to encourage greater food resilience for the community through both the sharing of culinary and gardening skills and ideas, plus showing people how to grow and to produce in their back gardens or community gardens and then use them in everyday cooking.

Not only does this reduce food miles, but it promotes healthy eating and encourages community members to share their own knowledge, cross culturally, both face to face and online through the Community Resilience Garden Facebook Community.

Pop in to Mossman Support Services in Mill Street, Mossman and find out first hand what is going on.

I’m off to water my veggies, so for now it’s Gazza signing out! Please send your stories to gazza@cairnslocalnews.com.au

Jessa the Gardener and bananas

Jessa and Volunteers: Jo Dickson, Colleen Smith and Jenny Naidu

Jessa the Gardener and Jackfruit

Jessa and Community Resilience Garden Members: Jenny Naidu, Janine Haydon, Cathy Maloney, Terry Malone

Jessa the Gardener in the compost bin

Explore

Palm

Adorned in luxurious resort accommodation, boutique shops and relaxed, decadent dining, Palm Cove is the ultimate choice when you’re after relaxed mornings with glorious sunrises.

Trinity Beach, a relaxed seaside village waiting to be explored

spot local wildlife.

With magical weather conditions all year round, swimming is always on the agenda at Trinity Beach. To accommodate for swimming over summer, Trinity Beach is patrolled year-round and has stinger nets for the warmer months.

from Cairns and 10 minutes from Palm Cove.

For a scenic stroll, start wandering towards Taylor’s Point, the 2.3km loop hugs the coastline until you get to the rocks at the point which offers sweeping views over Trinity Beach and Double Island, and serves as a good chance to

There is a great range of restaurants that line the beach to choose from, so dine and wine and take in the breathtaking views of Trinity beach. Whether it’s a striking culinary experience, down-to-earth Aussie food, coffee and cake, BYO, licensed or a “home” delivered takeaway, eating at

Trinity Beach is a gastronomical experience that will entice your taste buds.

Trinity Beach has a range of local shopping amenities for all your needs during your stay. An easy walk from the beach you’ll find the Coastwatchers Shopping Centre which includes a pharmacy, bakery, newsagency, foodstore, butcher, post office, video store and medical facilities.

Whatever your pleasure, and whatever your budget, you’ll discover Trinity Beach is a refreshing holiday destination, within reach of all the amenities at the heart of Cairns, and yet worlds apart.

Local Heroes Celebrated at Australia Day Ceremony

CASSOWARY Coast’s most inspiring individuals have been recognised on Australia Day for their exceptional contribution and outstanding service to the local community.

Cassowary Coast Regional Council Mayor Mark Nolan acknowledged Australia Day as a moment for our community to reflect, acknowledge and celebrate what it means to be an Australian citizen: our shared values, our national history, our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage, and our commitment to reconciliation.

“The local Australia Day Awards recognise the exceptional contributions, hard work, and determination of individuals making a positive difference to our community and also supporting our diversity.

“It’s with great pleasure that I recognise Colin Ritchie as Citizen of the Year. A longtime volunteer across many community groups. Colin has served as a longstanding Queensland RSL Service member for 30 years, served in the Australian Defence Force, is a founding member of the Innisfail Men’s Shed, has generously volunteered his time to assist with maintenance and repairs following four cyclones and continues to assist residents with general maintenance which may be challenging for them to manage due to physical ailments. With many more accolades accomplished, Colin has shown outstanding achievement and leadership while promoting the wellbeing of the wider community.

“I, along with the rest of our community, thank all winners and nominees for their selfless contributions to the region and I would also like to acknowledge and thank all the volunteers within our community

“I would like to recognise that Australia Day marks a new chapter for the conferees who have taken oath to become some of the country’s newest citizens. Our new citizens will contribute their skills and diversity to our local community and enrich it through their hard work and participation.” said Councillor Nolan.

Australia Day Award winner biographies and images from the Ceremony are available here: www.yoursay.cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au/Australia-Day

CASSOWARY COAST AUSTRALIA DAY AWARD WINNERS

• Cultural Award

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• Young Cultural Award

• Sustainable Environment Award

• Achievement Award

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Council Calls for Community Champions

Cassowary Coast Regional Council is currently seeking community representatives to provide input into the Innisfail CBD Revitalisation project.

The Reference Group is one phase of the planned engagement and is a vital method to ensure Council is connecting with key stakeholders across various platforms

To register your interest in being part of the Stakeholder Reference Group for this project, please visit Council’s Your Say page.

Submissions will close on 31 January 2023.

Register today at www.yoursay.cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au/innisfail-SRG

One Coast - Cassowary Coast

New tourism experience creates waves Beach furniture clean up commencing in Wongaling Beach

THE Cassowary Coast Regional Council will soon be starting a clean-up program of items left on our beaches and foreshore areas.

It is great to take a chair down to the beach to enjoy the scenery, but we ask that you take it to the beach, enjoy it and then take it home when you are done.

Cassowary Coast Councillor and Environment portfolio holder Jeff Baines said we are lucky to have World Heritage environment, oceans, and beaches right on our doorstep.

“For many of us, the beach is our happy place, a place we can turn to whenever we need it. It is a place for memories, and we all have a role to play to help protect our environment for the enjoyment of future generations. Items left behind on the beaches can breakdown over time and pollute our environment, or even impact our wildlife.

“It also looks untidy and

could be a potential risk becoming airborne, causing damage if a cyclone or storms hits our region.

“To address the issue of furniture and other items left on our beachfronts, the Beach Furniture Clean Up Program will commence in early 2023 with Council officers attending Wongaling Beach from Monday 20 February, weather permitting.”

Councillor Baines said that Council has established the program to clear unapproved structures, furniture, boats and debris that is left on the beach and to give owners the opportunity to remove any items within fourteen days.

“After this time, Council Officers will remove the item and store it at a Council depot for up to 30 days for collection. A fee of $63 per item will be applicable for items when they are collected. After the 30 days, Council will dispose of,

auction or donate items to a local charity.

“I understand that for some, these items are part of a tradition and Council will be looking to provide permanent alternatives across key locations in the future. For now, we are requesting the support of our community to ensure that these items return home with you when you leave.”

Cassowary Coast residents who would like to apply to have a structure, such as picnic tables, benches, or memorials, can view Council’s Park and Street Furniture Donation and Memorial Plaque Policy for more information on this process and the application criteria.

Let’s keep our paradise clean, and when visiting the beach, leave only footprints in the sand when you leave. Council sincerely thanks and appreciates our community’s support.

CASSOWARY Coast

Regional Council is excited to welcome a new tourism business to our region, providing another link to the iconic Dunk Island.

Last week, a new tour service commenced operation with the provision of ferry services from Clump Point Marina, Mission Beach to Dunk Island.

Economic Development and Tourism Portfolio Holder, Councillor Renee McLeod said Council has been thrilled to be involved in this process and to support a new business establishing in the Cassowary Coast

“The QuickCoast service, provides another option for visitors and locals to access and explore Dunk Island beaches and trails for a day or to stay and enjoy the newly upgraded camp facilities.

“Adding to the current marine services available from Mission Beach, this new service will increase accessibility in varying conditions.

“Tour and Operator Services are a valuable contributor to our region and are vital in creating memorable visitor experiences. Council is committed to providing support to operators interested in investing in Cassowary Coast through new services or the expansion of existing services.

“Council continues to work in collaboration with

Cassowary Coast Tourism to identify and facilitate opportunities to grow tourism products and service options available in the Cassowary Coast. The curation of the visitor experience, is a valuable component of our destination development journey,” said Councillor McLeod.

Cassowary Coast Tourism, Executive Officer Patrick Bluett said the relocation of the QuickCoast vessel from Cairns to Mission Beach is a great addition to the tourism infrastructure and experiences available to both locals and visitors alike across the Cassowary Coast region.

“The transfers offered by QuickCoast will complement the existing services in place and add much needed capacity to key destinations such as Dunk Island.

“We welcome Mr Penfold and his team to the Casso-

wary Coast and look forward to working with him moving forward,” said Mr Bluett.

Dunk Island Adventures, Managing Director Bry Penfold said it is fantastic to be returning to Mission Beach, and to launch our new Dunk Island adventure services.

“We commenced our service last week, providing scheduled trips to Dunk Island for both tourists and the community.

“It is such a beautiful place and we are really looking forward to sharing it with our customers on board QuickCoast,” said Mr Penfold.

To explore more of our beautiful region please visit the friendly team at one of our region’s Visitor Information Centres or visit Cassowary Coast Tourism. For further information please contact Council at 1300 763 903 or email enquiries@ cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au

Dog owners ready to unclip the leash for Wrights Park trial

RESIDENTS and their dogs across the Cassowary Coast are eagerly awaiting the upcoming Dog Off Leash trial with Wrights Park in the suburb of officially confirmed as one of the six trial locations.

Cassowary Coast Councillor Jeff Baines said that community consultation had been undertaken on the Wrights Park, Webb site with majority of the responses in favour of this location proceeding.

“Community consultation opened on 21 December 2022 and closed Sunday 22 January 2023.

“It is important that the community has the opportunity to have their voice heard on these issues and Council thanks the community members who provided their feedback. All feedback has been reviewed

by Council officers and, of the survey respondents, 77% indicated that they were in favour of the Wrights Park trial proceeding.”

Councillor Baines said that Council is listening to all feedback and requests for future facilities for items such as fenced areas, shaded areas, seating and the similar will be considered as part of future budget allocations. This is dependent on the success of the (up to) three-month trial.

“The trial will commence Monday 30 January 2023 and all locations will have signage in place. The signs will have a QR code for ease of providing feedback to Council. Alternatively, residents can provide feedback via Council’s Your Say webpage.”

Dunk Island Jetty and Spit Area

Credit: TTNQ

Coast - Cassowary Coast

Help us find the right path to improve Tully’s walking network

WE want to know how we can make walking in the Tully area more accessible, safe and an overall improved experience to connect people to where they need to go. Walking the kids to school and walking or riding to work or the shops, is one of the most effective ways to combine regular exercise with your everyday routine. More people will walk when everyday destinations are connected by comfortable, direct, safe and accessible routes.

To encourage walking as a more desirable option and identify future opportunities around Tully, Council and The Department of Main Roads (TMR) are developing a draft Walking Network Plan. Following the consultation period, Council will collate feedback and conduct a community workshop for the

community to hear results and provide additional feedback on the Draft Walking Network Plan.

We are asking the community to share their feedback in an online survey and utilise our online interactive mapping tool to identify:

• points of interest you currently walk to and the routes you regularly use.

• areas of concern which impact your current routes (safety, poor quality paths, accessibility, no connections etc.); and

• map the routes you would like to be able to use in the future.

If you use a skateboard or bicycle, run with a pram, use a wheelchair, motorised scooter or any other transport methods we haven’t specifically named - we’d love to hear from you too.

Unsealed Roads Improvement Plan adopted to drive clear path for Council

AT the December Local Government Meeting, Council adopted the Unsealed Roads Improvement Plan for implementation across the Cassowary Coast region.

Council has committed to providing improvement in the unsealed roads services as contained in our 2022-23 Operational Plan and as also articulated as a priority area in the Community Voice Action Plan.

In September 2022, Council endorsed the release of the ‘draft’ Unsealed Roads Improvement Plan for community consultation for a period of four weeks to guide the development of the Plan.

Asset Sustainability portfolio holder, Councillor Barry Barnes, thanked those who took the time to provide feedback on the Draft Plan and provide commentary on whether any of the initiatives outlined should be changed, reprioritised or removed.

“Council Officers reviewed all feedback

and have adjusted the Improvement Plan (outlined in the document), to align with the feedback provided.

“Gravel material review and improved drainage will be given a higher priority, moving to become medium-term initiatives which are aimed to be undertaken in 2024.

“Whilst there were several contributions suggesting that all unsealed roads be sealed, it is not sustainable for Council to seal 525 kilometres of unsealed roads, with an estimated cost of $525 million to upgrade.

“There will be a number of short-term initiatives which will be delivered in 2023 which will bolster productivity, upgrade priority unsealed road sections and improve internal processes and effectiveness.

“I look forward to the work which Council will implement in 2023, and providing updates to the Cassowary Coast community,” said Councillor Barnes.

Cassowary Coast adopts Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan

CASSOWARY Coast Regional Council has adopted our Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan (Innovate RAP) 2023 – 2025, taking the next steps on our reconciliation journey as we build relationships to develop respect and create opportunities through acknowledging and sharing experiences for an inclusive community connected to Culture and Country on the Cassowary Coast.

The Innovate RAP was officially endorsed by Reconciliation Australia in early January, and today was adopted by Council at the January Local Government Meeting.

Cassowary Coast Regional Council Mayor Mark Nolan, said the Innovate RAP will guide Council’s work over the next 24 months, to ensure Council is positioned to implement effective and mutually beneficial initiatives as part of our ongoing

commitment to reconciliation.

“The Innovate RAP will focus on Council’s drive to create a trustful, supportive and collaborative environment for all First Nations peoples as we walk together with pride and a sense of belonging to One Coast, Cassowary Coast

“It will encourage and facilitate the understanding and respect of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and will celebrate the contribution they make to our organisation and our community.

“Council is firmly committed to the reconciliation journey and we will continue to identify where and how we can implement actions that make a lasting difference,” said Mayor Nolan.

To read the Innovate RAP in full visit www.cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au/RAP.

Children’s Morning Baby Bounce Story Time

GREAT news! Cassowary Coast Libraries Children’s Morning, Baby Bounce and Story Time sessions are back for 2023! To check out start dates and session times, head to Council’s Website, find Libraries and click on Events. Also, visit any branch of Cassowary Coast Libraries to register your child as a Library member, and receive a Welcome Pack full of resources to take home!

Families are invited to attend free weekly BabyBounce, Storytime and Children’s Morning sessions, bookings are essential and can be made through Libraries website at www.cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au/libraries

Modern website re-design to transform customer experience

AFTER months of detailed planning and development, Council is transforming the digital experience for our customers with a new design and structure for Council’s website. The new website will provide easier navigation, reorganised content and improved accessibility.

Council’s long-term vision is to provide a customer focused and informative web site that is easy to navigate and provides our customers with an “one-stop shop” for accessing Council services.

In improving the digital experience of our customers, we have not diminished the other ways that Council can be contacted, face to face at our Customer Service Centres or through phone

or email.

Cassowary Coast Regional Council Mayor Mark Nolan said community feedback received in Council’s Community Scorecard has highlighted our community’s desire to stay informed and be provided with digital access to online Council services.

“Our focus is to make our website as user-friendly as possible, so navigating for essential services like paying a bill or registering your pet can be completed with ease and simplicity.

“The new website, alongside the recently launched Your Say community engagement platform, are key resources our community can utilise to access Council services, actively engage

with Council and remain informed on Council projects and events.

“More than just a revamped look, the new website will improve user accessibility on mobile and laptop devices and will provide a more customerintuitive page structure and we hope the community will find these changes helpful when seeking out Council’s services” said Councillor Nolan.

We encourage our community to check out the new website at www.cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au.

If you have any questions or feedback regarding the new Council website, please contact enquiries@cassowarycoast.qld. gov.au.

Community Connect is a publication of the Cassowary Coast Regional Council. Supplied by Council

Queenslanders riding e-scooters

know their legal rights and new road rules

A MAJOR Australian law firm is warning e-scooter riders that speeding, failing to wear a helmet or riding while underage could affect their legal entitlements in the event of an accident involving severe injuries.

Slater and Gordon Head of Work and Roads Claims QLD, Peta Yujnovich said with school returning this week, it was necessary to remember that children under 12 are not allowed to use e-scooters, and those aged between 12 and 16 can only ride if supervised by an adult.

“Queenslanders should take notice of the new road rules, which came into effect in November last year, before hiring or riding an e-scooter,” Ms Yujnovich said.

“The 12 to 16-year-olds also need to ensure their mobile phones are in their backpacks, not in a pocket and that the e-scooter is fitted with a bell.

“Ignoring the rules could affect your compensation if you are seriously injured and need to make a Compulsory Third Party (CTP) claim against an insurer or another road user.

“If you break one of these rules, it could affect your legal rights and ability to bring a claim for negligence if you are injured while riding an e-scooter,” she said.

“If you have broken the law, and this has contributed to your accident or injury, you may be found partly responsible for the accident.

“If you were injured while two people were riding on a scooter, for example, your compensation could be reduced because you haven’t looked after your safety and may be found to have contributed to the accident or injury.

“This may mean you have less compensation

available to cover your medical costs, pain and suffering and potentially loss of income if your injury has meant you can no longer work.”

Ms Yujnovich said drinking alcohol and riding an e-scooter, failing to wear a helmet, travelling at over 12km/h on a footpath or shared path, or using a mobile phone while riding would also attract fines.

“Personal mobility device riders who break the road rules will be given the same fines as drivers but will not accumulate demerit points,” she said.

“Failing to give way to a vehicle when entering a roundabout could cost you more than $400.

“Exceeding the speed limit by more than 30km/h could cost you $575. There are new speed limits depending on what kind of path or road you’re riding on.

“And for drinking alcohol while riding, the fine has been increased to $431,” Ms Yujnovich said.

“If you have school-aged children, make sure they understand the rules and know the consequences of breaking them. Young people are very vulnerable on our roads and are already overrepresented in road injuries and fatalities.

“It’s everyone’s responsibility to ensure we all stay safe while getting to and from school and work each day. E-scooters are an easy way to get around, but if you don’t know the rules, you could be endangering yourself, pedestrians, cyclists and other road users.”

Ms Yujnovich said if people had concerns an e-scooter may not be safe, they should take it to their local bike or scooter shop to have it checked.

Spotlight on Gordonvale

GORDONVALE has become a go-to destination for locals and foreigners alike with its range of stores, restaurants, entertainment and beautiful views that make it a must to visit.

More than just a sugar-growing town, Gordonvale offers great natural parks and peaks to climb, beautiful views and lots of history.

The town has its own racecourse, and golf club and has developed as a standalone rural town with local markets and a range of products and stores that highlight the local industry.

One of these stores is The Vale Emporium, at Bryce’s Arcade, which supports and stocks a wide range of products and art locally made and/or designed in Australia that fit the ethos.

Known as a town favourite, one visitor

left a review of their experience.

“We took a road trip, albeit a short one, to Gordonvale recently to have a sticky beak of what is actually there. The sugar mill was in full operation, with plumes of smoke exiting the chimney and the locals were busy getting to their day’s business,” the review read.

“The standout offering was The Vale Emporium. Everything about this store oozes sophistication and charm that I did not expect at the end of a nondescript arcade, Bryce’s Arcade. This is an emporium of affordable and beautiful fashion, giftware and homewares.

“It is clear to see that The Vale Emporium is passionate about fashion, giftware, homewares and decorating. This is clearly Gordonvale’s diamond in retail.”

Beyond The Vale Emporium, Gordon-

vale also offers a vast range of iconic local shops, products and entertainment for locals and visitors to cater for all needs and tastes.

From lovely fashion boutiques like Miss Marci to homeware and décor with The Vale Emporium and the Fickle Flower, if you need to take a break, you can stop for a cup of coffee at Caffin8 Café, and you can buy yourself some flowers at Orchids North; if you’re searching for property, Cairns Property Office is an excellent place to start or if you live with disability or care for someone with disability Peak Mobility Services is the place for you.

There is something for everyone in Gordonvale, and its fascinating history, friendly people and wonderful and varied local offering will surely keep you coming back.

Spotlight on Gordonvale

Orchids North says Farewell

AFTER moving to Meringa on the outskirts of Gordonvale in 1985, couple Debbie and Les Neill planted about 400 trees on a cane farm which had been subdivided in the mid-1800s.

In 2000, they went on to build their first greenhouse, then another and another, cutting out all the trees along the way. In 2004 they finally founded Orchids North, opening to the public, selling at local markets, and supplying local and southern nurseries.

Over the years, the pair has had the privilege of meeting thousands of orchid growers from the local

areas, all over Australia and the world.

“We have had a very fulfilling and interesting life from being the owners of an Orchid Nursery,” Debbie said.

“As we are now looking forward to retirement the nursery unfortunately is closing down.”

After 18 years of service, Orchids North is closing its doors to give Debbie and Les a well-deserved rest. The owners feel grateful for their loyal clients and feel honoured to have served the community with their beautiful flowers.

The official post-game party (18+) is on at the Reef Hotel Casino.

Book your tickets through the Cairns Taipans

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Cost:

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FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY

Bobby MaguireDunwoody’s, 4:00pm

Barbary Coasters - Cairns Cruising Yacht Squadron, 4:00pm

Kaweyova - Paper Crane by Crystalbook, 4:00pm

Jasmine Maraea - The Kite Gallery, 6:00pm

Bad Boys of Uke - Nonna Leotta’s House, 6:30pm

Hot Ice - Cazalys Cairns, 6:30pm

Infinity Duo - Innisfail RSL, 7:00pm

Tanya Murphy - Trinity Beach SC, 7:30pm

Janna Mercedes - Ant Hill Hotel Mareeba, 8:00pm

Warwick Alder - The Jazz Sanctuary, 8:00pm

Tony George - Bar 36 at The Reef Hotel Casino, 9:00pm

Pete Bennett - Mayhem at Machans Café Bar, 1:00pm

Russell Harris - Yorkeys Knob Boating Club, 3:00pm

Janna Mercedes - The Beach House at Trinity Beach, 4:00pm

Victoria Boxall - Ten06, 5:30pm

Klare KuOlga - The Vine Room, 6:00pm

SAX MAN Troy StevensO’Donnells, 6:00pm

Infinity Duo - Cazalys Cairns, 6:15pm

Bobby Maguire - Centrals Trinity Sporting Club, 6:30pm

Kim Settle - Atherton International Club, 7:00pm

Katie Richards - Elixir Music House, 7:00pm

Kaweyova - Rattle n Hum Palm Cove, 8:00pm

Tropic Thunder - The Red Beret, 8:00pm

Groove Therapy - Bar 36 at The Reef Hotel Casino, 9:00pm

Miss Tee - The Jack, 9:00pm

Lexi and Al - Cairns RSL Club, 1:00pm

DjGlennW - Dundees at the Cairns Aquarium, 11:30am

Andy Brassett - The Mountain View Hotel, 12:00pm

Debi CandlishDunwoody’s, 2:00pm

Jasmine Maraea - Ten06, 3:00pm

Andrea - Palm Cove SLSC, 3:00pm

Kaweyova - Boardwalk Social by Crystalbrook, 3:30pm

JC Stylles - O’Donnells, 3:30pm

SAX MAN Troy StevensSauce Brewing Co, 3:30pm

Wind and Wood - O’Sheas, 4:30pm

Justin Wellington - Bar 36 at The Reef Hotel Casino, 7:30pm

Miss Tee - Pier Bar, 7:30pm

Vivien Aisi - Boardwalk Social by Crystalbrook, 8:00am

Time to address mens’ mental health

ALCHEMY of Men offers ground-breaking men’s programs in FNQ aiming to take action on the concerning and increasing rates of suicide of men across Australia.

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (2022), 8.6 Australians die every day by suicide, and 75 per cent of those who commit suicide are male.

Suicide rates of men are higher due to existing taboos that prevent them from seeking help or opening up about their feelings. Alchemy of Men’s purpose is to reach that population in a program designed specifically for them.

Alchemy of Men is uniquely designed to support men struggling with mental health, emotional pain, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and trauma.

The program aims to supply its participants with tools to change how they feel daily and interrupt physical stress responses and emotional triggers to manage emotions effectively.

The first step in Alchemy of Men’s journey is the 3-Day Retreat, where members will learn practical tools to help them manage daily stress, ease an overthinking mind, understand and manage anger and frustrations, release past trauma and improve relationships.

Alchemy of Men Retreat Facilitator Geraldine Zadkiel said the retreat was an opportunity for men to learn and release but also to enjoy and integrate.

“We are trying to reach people who are struggling from anxiety and who are overwhelmed with the pressures of what it means to be a man,” Ms

Zadkiel said.

“One of the key components of a program like this is not just learning new tools and being able to release something that has happened in your life but how you integrate it into your life when you return.

“Ultimately, we want you to find balance and feel very empowered.”

From adventure challenges to outdoor activities, the Alchemy of Men 3-Day Retreat is an in-depth program that will help you break patterns that have been holding you back and help you get back on track in all areas of your life.

For more information and to register for the 3-Day Retreat from February 17-19, visit alchemyofman.com.au or email alchemyofmen@gmail.com.

Monty Python’s Spamalot by Cairns Choral Society at CPAC

Back by POPULAR DEMAND, Monty Python’s SPAMALOT, written by Eric Idle with music by John Du Prez and Eric Idle, is a musical comedy adapted from the 1975 film Monty Python and the Holy Grail.

It tells the legend of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table on their quest to find the Holy Grail. This spectacular and hilarious production will certainly lift the spirits of the Cairns community when it is presented by the Cairns Choral Society.

Hard Quiz Live – Hosted by Tom Gleeson CPAC

The Hard Quiz Master, Overlord and Gold Logie Award Winner, Tom Gleeson, is taking the Big Brass Mug out for a spin, swapping the studio for a theatre and adding a third dimension to Australia’s hardest quiz.

Hard Quiz is a game show where the host doesn’t hide his contempt and the prize is the chance to stare down a camera while holding a mug – it’s also a ratings phenomenon, which is now in its seventh season on the ABC.

may be peak Gleeson, the most perfect expression of his powers –Hard Quiz, a huge live crowd and no rules.

Lano & Woodley hilariously retell Moby Dick

By Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

EPIC comedic duo Lano & Woodley are visiting Cairns with their new show, Moby Dick, a comedic retelling of the classic novel in nonsensical Lano & Woodley fashion.

Kicking off on February 3, the audience will enjoy the duo’s return to Cairns with their new show Moby Dick at the Cairns Performing Arts Centre.

No open water is required for this live stage show, where Lano attempts a dramatic performance of the epic Moby Dick, only for Woodley-branded mayhem to ensue.

One part of Lano & Woodley, Frank Woodley, said the idea of this rendition of Moby Dick was born at the beginning of the pandemic.

“Our live shows have almost always been narrative, physical comedy,” Woodley said.

“What we do is similar to a play but more like clowns putting on a show.

“During lockdown, we started thinking about what our next show would be and Col said ‘maybe we could do our take on a famous novel’, and he was reading Moby Dick during lockdown. Just in passing, Col said, ‘maybe we could do Moby Dick’.

“As soon as he said that, I just got a really strong image of him as Captain Ahab, the crazy captain, who, nature in the form of this whale, has injured him and destroyed this sense of himself, and this hatred of the whale drives him. I instantly saw him in that role and the comic potential of this.

“Somehow, between reading the book and putting together the first show, we managed to cobble together our version of Moby Dick,” he said. Woodley said Cairns fans could expect Moby Dick to be a show that has everything and nothing to do with the classic novel.

“The most fun part of the story is that we tell the story of Moby Dick, Captain Ahab having his leg bitten off by the whale and captaining his

ship to obvious disaster attempting to get revenge,” he said.

“And simultaneously, the whale represents irrepressible forces of nature, how Ahab wants to dominate nature, but nature is too powerful; in the same way, we play with the fact that Col wants to control the show and put on a respectable and impressive show, but I’m like a nine-yearold with attention deficit disorder.

“I’m not playing the part of the whale as such but I’m the irrepressible force of nature and that wild spontaneity that can’t be controlled much like children are.

“And just like the whale, I have driven Col mad and then clearly from the start, this enterprise of us putting on this play is doomed, and it’s going to end in disaster,” Woodley said.

“We crossreference between Ahab’s story and Colin’s story as we progress, and it’s really satisfying.”

The other half of Lano & Woodley, Colin Lane, said chaos was bound to take over Moby Dick.

“We will convince you the show should be called Moby dick - by the end, you may think it’s more like Moby dickheads,” Lane said.

“In the new show, an obsessed and maniacal captain tries desperately to maintain his dignity and achieve the ultimate revenge. It’s also a story about Moby Dick.”

Beyond the laughs and the chaos, fans of Lano & Woodley can expect a beautiful set that will make them feel lost at sea.

Woodley encouraged Cairns fans to be a part of the hilarious Moby Dick experience.

“I’ve heard that laughter is a great aphrodisiac,” he said.

“So I’m very confident that you’ll have a good laugh, and that might lead to something else when you get home.”

To purchase tickets for Lano & Woodley’s Moby Dick, visit Ticketlink, or click the following link in our online edition: https://bit.ly/3R8GwIH

Lano & Woodley will perform in their new comedy Moby Dick at CPAC on February 3

Babinda Museum officially opens to the public

AFTER five years of development following the initial proposal, history was made on Saturday, January 21, with the grand opening of the Babinda Museum.

The ribbon cutting honour went to Cairns Regional Council Mayor Bob Manning OAM and the daughter of George Jago, to whom the museum is dedicated, Ruth Boustead.

A very high rainfall area surrounded by Queensland’s two highest mountains, Babinda district is a thriving community with a strong identity and rich history.

It is this history, culture and environment that is on display and according to Dr Jo Wills, Museum Development Officer from the Queensland Museum Network, many of these stories are uniquely Babinda and “you won’t find them anywhere else”.

In her role assisting communities throughout the Far North to manage, interpret and preserve their collections, Dr Wills said it had been a real privilege helping the Babinda Museum steering committee to deliver their vision.

“This project was special as the committee has stayed true to the values we set out in the original strategic planning document - remembrance, reconcili-

ation, regrowth and resilience,” Dr Wills said.

“It’s been a real community effort. That resilience and regrowth have been realised through the committee’s perseverance over the years, their willingness to embrace new skills and even through recycled museum cabinetry and infrastructure.

“Their commitment to being inclusive and representative has resulted in liaising with First Nation’s representatives and families and going to extraordinary lengths to identify compelling community stories.”

State Member for Hill, Shane Knuth MP and Cairns Regional Council Division 1 Councillor Mr Brett Moller were also in attendance.

Creating a community museum involves researching, collecting, collating, fundraising efforts, and in this instance, lots of ‘jigsaw puzzle’ funding.

Successful applications to various grant programs became the primary source of financing for the development and establishment of the museum.

Steering committee member Tanya Tuttle said the development of the Babinda Museum also benefited from tremendous community support and local corporate sponsorship.

“The community really got

behind us (the steering committee) as they identified a need for this sort of project and also because it was such a collaborative exercise; we engaged with the community, and whoever wanted to be involved in the storytelling could be involved,” Ms Tuttle said.

Dr Wills said this sort of grassroots, participatory approach is also conducive to sustainability and succession planning, with a real diversity of people from differing backgrounds and ages involved in the project.

Ms Tuttle said that while “starting from scratch” meant a long gestation period, it was beneficial in one sense as the committee was able to start from ‘the ground up’, rather than having to attempt to update or revamp an existing space.

“The committee are all absolutely thrilled with the final result; the space looks beautiful, and some of the stories that have been told by our local families and are on display are really spectacular,” Ms Tuttle said.

A volunteer steering committee-led project and a Babinda Taskforce economic development initiative.

The Babinda Museum will be open to the public from Tuesday to Saturday, 10am-3pm, with entry by donation.

Top: Cairns Regional Council Mayor Bob Manning OAM and Ruth Boustead cutting the ribbon.

Bottom: Kitty Anning, Tanya Tuttle, Shane Knuth MP, Mayor Bob Manning OAM, Cr Brett Moller, Trevor Vicarioli and Lee Antoni (back). Sandy Taylor-Crane and Dr Jo Wills (front).

Don’t allow your personal problems to interfere with your professionalism. You can come up with future trends in creative fields. A residential move may be in order. Your ability to work with detail will bring recognition.

Mingle with those who can help you get ahead. You can adjust in your domestic scene this week. They will not be in the right frame of mind to put up with tactless comments. You will be quite excitable this week.

Be cautious and use your head wisely in situations that deal with the use of machinery or vehicles. Be prepared to make changes to your personal documents. Money problems will get worse if your partner hasn’t been playing by the rules.

Try to mix business with pleasure while traveling. Don’t divulge secret information. Your home may be in an uproar, and you are best to stay out of the line of fire if at all possible. You will have to be careful not to fall into traps set by jealous colleagues.

Concentrate on work and on making money. Your charm and generosity will bring new friends and romantic opportunities. Deception in your home is evident. Don’t beat around the bush. Don’t let your personal partner hold you back.

You need more space for the whole family. You’re apt to make a move or experience changes at home.

Changes in your home will be positive. Try not to lose your cool, and make your point known.

Take care of the needs of elders in your family. Call a good friend. You must try to help. You should be making plans to spend some time with the ones you love.

You may not want to spend time around family or your home.

Inharmonious situations at home may be extremely upsetting for you this week. Don’t expect the whole family to be overjoyed. Your talents might just be discovered.

Your uncanny insight will help you make the right choices. You must lay down ground rules so that you can complete a job. You might be a tad overindulgent this week. You can make favourable real estate offers this week.

marjoram Thyme

an enclosed chair for conveying one person, carried between horizontal poles by two porters (5,5)

to cut off irregular or unwanted parts (4)

of or connected with the eyes or vision (6)

or impel someone or something with great force (4)

slender in design or build (8)

covered in flowers (6)

to politely or formally ask for (10) 6. to become encrusted or covered with a scab or scabs (8) 8. expressing a compliment; praising or approving (13) 13. having sound judgement; fair and sensible (10) 15. a false display of feelings, attitudes, or intentions (8) 16. envelop completely and hide from view (8) 18. a card bearing identifying data about the individual named on the card (2,4) 20. fit or suitable to be eaten (6) 22. to throw something somewhere lightly or casually (4)

Perfect spot for a picnic

By Maria Larkins

WHEN parties of distinguished guests visited the Cairns district to attend official functions, it was not unusual to include tours of the local attractions on the itinerary.

On Wednesday, October 19, 1912, it was reported that the Lieutenant Governor, Sir Arthur Morgan, accompanied by his wife, Lady Morgan, and Railway Commissioner, Mr. J. F. Thallon, had arrived aboard the “S.S. Mourilyan.”

The party left Cairns by special train for Kuranda where they proceeded to Herberton. There, Sir Arthur Morgan officially opened the railway line in the presence of 2000 people including three train loads of visitors from Cairns, Mareeba, Atherton and other places.

On Friday, the party of dignitaries spent some time at Yungaburra where they visited Lake Eacham. Later they were given a tour of Barron Falls and enjoyed a picnic near there.

Refreshments enjoyed at the picnic would have included champagne, wine, beer, soda, lemonade and tea while the menu may have been inspired by the renowned English journalist and writer, Mrs. Isabella Beeton or popular local cookery teacher, Miss Amy Schauer.

It would most likely have been prepared and supplied one of the local hotels. Mrs. Beeton said picnics were “one of the pleasantest forms of entertainment” provided they were wellarranged.

“Watch carefully not to provide too much of one thing and too little of another; avoid serving plenty of salad and no dressing; two or three

legs of lamb and no mint sauce; an abundance of wine and no corkscrew; and such like little mistakes,” she said.

The picnic for Sir Arthur Morgan and his entourage appeared to have been very well arranged with guests appearing well-satiated as they relaxed after lunch.

In addition to cold cuts of meat such as chicken and lamb, the guests may have been offered cold salmon or lobster, various salads, seasonal fruits, cheese, fruit tarts, jellies, creams and biscuits.

Queensland cookery writer, Amy Schauer, offered a few local delights in her cookbook including: scrub turkey roasted in the same way as quail; jugged wallaby made in the same way as jugged hare; mango or banana chutney; red guava or passionfruit jelly; and coconut biscuits.

The versatile sandwich was a very popular picnic fare with fillings such as oysters, prawns, potted meats, and roasted meats. There were also vegetable combinations such as watercress, mustard and cress with lettuce or grated parmesan cheese with very finely chopped beetroot. Finely chopped mint, butter and a little lime juice was suggested as the perfect spread for sandwiches of minced lamb or other minced meats.

Sources: TROVE; State Library of Queensland; Mrs. Beeton’s Book of Household Management (1912) published by Ward, Lock & Co. Ltd.; The Schauer Improved Cookery Book Australia (1923) published by Edward, Dunlop & Co. Ltd.S

Top Left: Sir Arthur Morgan and Lady Morgan with the Captain of the “Mourilyan”. Courtesy SLQ.

Top Right: Cookery writer and teacher, Miss Amy Schauer, ca. 1927, courtesy SLQ.

Bottom: Members of Sir Arthur Morgan’s group enjoy refreshments at the picnic near Barron falls. Courtesy SLQ.

Main Pic: Barron Falls, Kuranda. Photograph by Harriett Pettifore Brims, Courtesy SLQ.

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VALE: Liam Vignes

17 September 1997 – 24 December 2022

With love and respect, on behalf of Liam’s parents and grand-parents, on the sudden unexpected passing of Ed & Gerri’s youngest son Liam on Christmas Eve.

A memory we’d love to share is a yester-years photo of happier times for us all – our cheeky monkey, in his 2nd birthday photo, displaying his lifelong attribute of causing belly-laughs.

Sometimes we find looking back at laughter moments helps us face the mountains high left for us to climb in forward events.

“Looking at captured moments of happiness helps pain”.

CAREERS

Qualified Auto Technician/Mechanic

Vale Liam, In loving service, Reverend Khani Hawthorne

Lady 75 years seeks health conscious friend. Write to: PO Box 290, Earlville, 4870

Please call Glenn: 0439 342 261 or email: edgehillservo@hotmail.com

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

Friday January 27th

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

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

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

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

FNQ Markets

Saturday January 28th

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

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

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

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

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

Tully: Lions Park, 08:00-12:00

Yungaburra: Bruce Jones Park, Main St, 07:30-12:30

Sunday January 29th

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

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

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

Port Douglas: by St Mary’s Church, 07:30-14:00

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

Full time position available for an experienced, trade qualified person in a small independently owned workshop, located in Cairns. Attractive remuneration package including bonuses for the right person.

MOSSMAN LADIES’ BOWLS CLUB

Thursday January 19th: Winners: Marie Crees and Trish Arnold; R/ups: Honey C and Pam Widdows. Raffle won by Barbara Withers. Ladies, look in the black book in the ladies drawer to put your name in for the next competition of bowls which is the 2 bowls Singles. 21 ends are played using only 2 bowls, 9am start. Entry closes February 9th. Reminder that for Thursday Ladies, names in by 12pm and play is at 1pm, bowls attire. Visitors are welcomed. Any ladies wishing to learn to play there is free coaching available. For more information contact Carole Maxted: caroles44bb@dodo. com.au or 0400 954 537. Sunday January 15th Social Mixed Bowls: Winners: Sandra Kafkis and Trish Arnold; R/ups: Mary McGogy, Ian Bailey and Anne Geddes. Carole M provided her lovely scones for afternoon tea, which was much appreciated. For Sunday January 29th, names in by 12pm and play is at 1pm, casual attire. All welcomed, beginners or experienced. For more information contact Mossman Bowls Club 4098 1434.

WEST CAIRNS MEN’S BOWLS CLUB

Friday Scroungers: Winner: Pauline Bent; R/up: Mal Taylor. Tuesday afternoon: Winners: Wayne Vella, Steve Howells and Eddie Czarnecki, 23pts; R/ups: Morris, Bruce and Pinalli, 22pts and +7 in the second game. Thirsty Thursday: Best Players: Julie Arena, Cobby, Johnny Greenway and Norma Wright. Sunday Morning: Winners: Glen Blades, Don Lowe and M Lynch, 20pts; R/up: T Moulds, Jim Carr and Johnny Banes, 19pts and plus 8 in the second game. The free game went to Neil Mallyon. The Jackpot was won by the Steve Kavanagh team. The Sunday morning games for 2023 are club select and will start at 9:30am so the cards are called at 9:15am, all are welcome, nominations close on Saturday afternoon. Special Congratulations to The West

Cairns Team that competed in the Sam Rinaudo Shield on the weekend, winning 62 to 50 over South Johnson in the final at Atherton on Sunday. Club Championship Season 2023: Men’s First division 4’s, Pairs and singles nomination Sheets will be on the board this week and only a two-week window will be available before the competition starts. So, get your team nominations in ASAP. Note season 2023 registration fees are now due. Happy bowling and see you on the Green in 2023. Social bowlers are always welcome.

BROTHERS EDMONTON LADIES & MEN’S BOWLS

Ladies Section: 2023 Club

Championship: Singles: D Begg def C Populin. Fours: G Buttigieg, A Evans, S Bates, J Baird def T McAlary, J Rick, L Ceely, D Hester. There will be no club competition games called before the AGM, which will be held on Thursday February 9th. Please check the board and if you wish to organise your game you are most welcome to do so. Thursday

February 2nd: Social Bowls: names in by 12pm, paid up by 12:30pm for play at 1pm, contact office on 4055 5344.

Men’s Section:Friday January 20th: 2022 Club Champion Mixed Pairs Final: D & A Begg def S & Q Bates. Saturday January 21st: Winners: Max Harker, Daphne Gough, Rob Moody. Coming Events: Saturday January 28th: Mixed Mufti 3 Bowl Triples, Club select, Skips pick a card, visitors welcome. Nominations close 11:30m on day, for play at 12:30pm, contact the office on 4055 5344 and leave a message. Wednesday February 1st: Men’s Self Select 3 Bowl Triples: cash prizes, plus jackpot, visitors welcome. Nominations close 11:30am for play at 12:30pm, contact Don Stewart on 0427 816 894.

Sunday February 5th: Men’s AGM: 10am in Bowls Club room, all financial members are requested to attend. We must have a quorum for the meeting to proceed, this is your chance to voice any views with

regards to our club.

WEST CAIRNS LADIES

First up everyone from West Cairns Bowls Club wish to send their condolence to Joyce Alexander for the loss of her partner Harold our thoughts are with you. Wednesday January 18th Social: another fun day was had by all. Round 1 Winners: Pauline’s team; Round 2: Edna’s team. Wednesday January 25th there will be no social bowls as most of our ladies will be away. Social bowls again on Wednesday February 1st: if you wish a game give Liz a call on 0400 626 765, names in by 10:45am, game starts 11:30am. White Lady Day is on Wednesday February 15th, if you wish a game please put your name down on the list inside club or give Rosemary a call on 0409 624 623 or Liz on 0400 626 765. Flyers have been sent to all clubs. Good Bowling to All.

MARLIN COAST BOWLS CLUB

Tuesday Afternoon Men’s Triples: Winners: P Williamson, Steve, Ross; R/up: Les, Bob, Jim. Wednesday mixed bowls: Winners: J Young, P Taggert; R/up: J Jenner, B Andreatta. Thursday men’s triples: Winners: D Spicer, S Pitt, D White; R/up: S Bettess, D Gibson, G Andersen. All bowlers, non-bowlers and tourists welcome. Bowls available for free, ph 4057 6931. Note: All social games played, cards are called 15 minutes before start. Club championships to be played: Check boards for play by dates for Championship games. Like us on Facebook. Special Events: Raffles Friday night also trivia.

MOSSMAN MEN’S BOWLS CLUB

Saturday January 21st: Mossman hosted Section 1 of the Sam Rinaudo Shield with Mossman up against Atherton and Edge Hill Bowls Clubs. The Mossman team comprised John Cochrane, Randall Edwards (pairs); Malachy McTaggart, Gerrard Beech, Nev Fletcher (triples); and

Peter Busch, Col Widdows Bernie Wolland Bill Smith (fours). In game 1, Mossman vs Atherton with scores of 2013 (pairs); 15-13 (triples) and 9-12 (fours). In game 2, Mossman vs Edge Hill with scores of 14-14 (pairs); 9-18 (triples) and 10-19 (fours). Game 3, Atherton vs Edge Hill with scores of 10-15 (pairs); 14-22 (triples) and 12-14 (fours). Final scores: Winners: Edge Hill with 6 match points and a margin of 53; 2nd Place: Mossman with 4 match points and a margin of 11 and 3rd Place: Atherton with 2 match points and a margin of 2. Thank you to the staff and the Mossman Bowls Club to host this event.

A reminder, no Jackpot Bowls for the next two weeks. This Saturday January 28th, Mossman will host the District Championship Fours, and Saturday February 4th, Mossman will host the District Championship Pairs. The next Jackpot Bowls will be Saturday February 11th. The next Social Bowls will be held Thursday February 2nd, from 5:30pm with names in by 5pm, at a cost of $10 per person. To register ring the Club on 4098 1434. Social Bowls now held on the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month and open to all members, non-members and beginners wishing to try bowls for the first time. Calendar of events for January and February now posted on the noticeboard. Club Championship book for 2023 is now open and will close at 4pm, March 6th. Anyone interested in playing bowls, either for the first time or returning to the game, contact David White on 0407 630 759. You can now follow Mossman Bowls Club Men’s Section on Facebook, or see our website: www.mossmanbowlsclub.com.au.

EDGE HILL BOWLS CLUB

Reminder to Full Club members that membership is due from December 31st 2022. Fees can be paid at the Bar. Your existing membership card will expire on January 31st 2023.

Ladies Bowls: Social bowls

played Thursday January 19th saw a dead heat between Joyce Ault, Lorraine King and Irene Crampton. Other winners were Karina Homer, Francis O’Shea and Yvonne Bolton.

Men’s Bowls: Nomination sheets for Singles, Pairs, Triples and Fours are on the notice board. Get your name down for these Club Championship events. All events will be closing soon. Tuesday January 17th: no Social Bowls played. Tuesday will now commence at 1pm. Put your name down for a game. Wednesday January 18th: 25 players took to the green, unfortunately, no results were recorded. Saturday Social Bowls winners: Lou Pomroy and John Parker; R/ up: Jill Alexander-Sachse and Darren Curry.

Sam Rinaudo Shield: The Sam Rinaudo Shield was played last weekend. Edge Hill won their section on Saturday but were defeated by South Johnstone 65-50 in the semi-final on Sunday. Overall winner was West Cairns.

Social Bowls: Social Bowls will resume with Tuesday at 1pm and Night bowls remain at 7pm, Wednesday night Self Selected Triples will also remain at 7pm. Saturday Social Bowls will still be played 1pm on Saturday. Check with the Club for other start times or see the new Social Bowls Booking forms online on Edge Hill Club Website and Facebook page. You can contact Ray Webster 0402 182 230 for social bowls assistance and volunteering your time or ring the Club 07 4053 1036.

WEST CAIRNS TPI MEMORIAL BOWLS CLUB

On Monday an increased attendance of eighteen members enjoyed a fine afternoon of social mixed bowls on the covered green at West Cairns Bowls Club and also an afternoon tea provided for us with an Australia day theme of damper, syrup and vegemite and lamingtons which was enjoyed by all. The winning team drawn at the end of play was led by Dave Nicholls supported by Mike Ireland and

John Siviour. It is pleasing to see more players on the green and would welcome any of our players from last year to contact the selector if they are able to participate in future games. Selector Rosemary would welcome names from players able to play next Monday to contact her before 12pm on Monday by phone on 0409 624 623 to be added to the playing list. The cards are drawn at 1:15pm with play commencing at 1:30pm and continues to 4:30pm with a break for afternoon tea provided. A fundraising raffle is held before play and the winner collects a small cash prize. The annual general meeting is being organised with a date to be announced in the forthcoming weeks. All players are invited to nominate for any position on the new committee with forms being available shortly. All players are welcome to join us or visit the club on any Monday afternoon and our members will provide any information required. -

MILLAA MILLAA GOLF

Sunday January 22nd was the official opening of the 2023 season, sponsored by the wonderful people at ELDERS INSURANCE AND REAL ESTATE. The day was tinged with sadness and the club sends its condolences to the Suffield family and Elders employees. The field was made up of eleven teams with visitors making up three of these, and while there was one brief shower at the start of play it was a great day for playing golf. Winners: Danny Bradley, Jack Bradley and Shane Trembath, nett 57 1/2; R/up: Alan (Happy) Hapgood, Ash Healy and Mark Twomey nett 60 1/6; 3rd: Graham Murray, Bob Collyer and Mal Armstrong only 2/6 of a stroke further back. Two teams finished on 61 nett but it was the team of Dave Hay, Richard (Sol) Sullivan and Ray Marsh winning out over Don McHardie, Ross Ellen and Wayne Norris. NTP: Bruce Hunter and Graham Suffield nearest on 1/10; the Bradley team was nearest on 5/14; Paul Foster, Geoff Errey and Kelvin Brooks were nearest with their second shot on 8/17. As always Elders were very generous with prizes and none of the teams went home empty handed.

Raffle Winners: Kelvin Brooks, Warwick Howarth, David Welch, Bob Collyer, the club thanks to Bruce Hunter and Ray Marsh. Elders also gave another 4 prizes to draw for. Bad luck Gary Sinclair as your number 59 came out in the members draw and would have earned you $100. Next week is a stroke event sponsored by Kelvin Brooks, 9.00 for 9.30 see ya there.

Make Bridge your new hobby

LEARNING a new language or game can be an exhilarating and energising experience, especially for anyone looking for a challenge after stepping back from work and/ or family commitments.

The game of Bridge offers this experience, particularly for people interested in card games, but this is not a prerequisite.

A worldwide popular game, Bridge provides a fabulous opportunity to meet new people, make friends with like-minded people and stimulate the ‘grey matter’, all at the same time.

Having celebrated its 50th Anniversary last year, The Cairns Bridge Club, with over 200 members, has a comfortable, air-conditioned club house that hosts a Bridge session on most days of the week throughout

the day (morning, afternoon and night) to provide a range of playing opportunities for as many members as possible, depending on their level of proficiency and interest.

Cairns Bridge Club Partnership Secretary Andy Mathieson said they offer a very friendly and educational experience.

“If you enjoy cards, if you would like to get out and meet new people, then bridge makes for a great and affordable hobby,” Ms Mathieson said.

“It’s a very addictive hobby; once you get into it and do the lessons, the more you learn, the more you want to learn.

“So it’s a really fun way to pass the time, it gets you out of the house and meeting new people, and we are a very friendly club.”

Experienced teachers offer a suite

of lessons for people interested in a well-structured package that includes printed hand outs and supervised play sessions to practice what has been presented during classes.

“The club is very nurturing for new players,” Ms Mathieson said.

“Once beginners finish their 10week course, that’s not the end of it, there is a supervised play where you can come and play the hands, but you can ask questions to the experienced players there.

“And once you become more comfortable with the game, you can join the regular sessions, and we have two sessions a week that are specifically aimed at new players; we pair them with more experienced players, so they have a mentor.

“It’s not an intimidating experience,” she said.

Classes are offered on Thursday mornings, as well as in the evening, starting on February 2, 2023. The introductory lesson is free, and the cost for the remainder of the 10week program is $75.

“There are no age limitations, we encourage people as young as possible to join, but it’s quite popular among people who are retired,” Ms Mathieson said.

“There is no age; we have a lady who started to learn at 90 years of age!”

For further information or to register your interest, for morning lessons, contact Brian Tierney at 0401 261 899 or for evening lessons, Lesley Fraser at 0404 427 857. Alternatively, visit the club’s website at www.cairnsbridgeclub.org.au

Former

Coast Suns star set to soar with Manunda Hawks

TRAILBLAZING AFL Cairns junior Jarrod Harbrow will return home this season, with the former Gold Coast Suns champion set to take the field for the Manunda Hawks in 2023.

One of Far North Queensland’s most accomplished athletes, the dashing defender capped off a glittering 262-game career in 2021, claiming the Suns’ best-and-fairest in 2018.

Since retiring, the highly respected leader has worked hard behind the scenes mentoring some of the game’s most promising First Nations stars and working with the Suns in various roles.

The silky left-footer said the chance to play at Hawks, where his brother, Marc, won a premiership in 2011, proved too good of an opportunity to pass up.

“It’s something that I always wanted to do post my AFL footy career,” Harbrow, said.

“I’ve got a strong connection with the Hawks. I don’t know how many games I’ll be able to play.

“Some of that will depend on my work schedule.

“I’ll be able to bring the family up and get the kids involved, which will be great,” he said.

Harbrow’s skills and experience will help the Hawks following a down season in 2022, coach Wayne Siekman said.

“The chance to learn from someone who’s not only played at the highest level but been one of the better players in the

AFL for more than a decade is incredible,” Siekman said.

“Not only that, but Jarrod’s character speaks to the values we have as a club. He is the ideal recruit in every respect.”

Harbrow played junior footy at both Hawks and South Cairns Cutters before moving to Victoria as a teenager to better his chances of getting drafted.

He made his senior debut for Cutters at 15, playing against Cairns City Cobras at Holloways Beach.

“I got my start at Souths in a lot of ways, and obviously, I have a special connection to both clubs,” the proud Yirrganydji and Kuku Yalanji man said.

“But coming to Hawks this year just felt right to me.”

During his time in Cairns, Harbrow said he hopes to guide the next generation of elite young footballers as they develop into stars.

“Making it to the AFL as a Cairns junior is pretty different now to when I was coming through the ranks,” he said.

“If anything, there are greater opportunities through the Suns Academy and other pathways that weren’t there previously.

“Hopefully, by coming back and playing in Cairns, I can pass onto others what I learned and guide them on their journey to becoming an elite footballer as well,” Harbrow said.

Harbrow, who will remain based in southeast Queensland, played last season for the Broadbeach Cats in the QAFL.

new recruit Jarrod Harbrow at Cazalys Stadium, Cairns.