Cairns Local News July 28 2023

Local News Cairns

l CAIRNS CBD

THE Cairns CitySafe network is to be extended to Ports North’s property on the waterfront.

The council will enter a Memorandum of Understanding with the port authority to add more cameras, particularly in the boardwalk restaurant precinct to prevent blindspots.

Children’s entertainer Emma Memma visited the youngsters, from left: Miller Hodges, Wynter Hodges, Surum Drummond and Braxron Penrose, at Child’s World Early Learning Centre earlier this week before her show at the Tanks Art Centre on August 5.

Mayor Bob Manning said the council was “deeply concerned about law and order matters”, particularly earlier this month after a group of children rampaged on the boardwalk, allegedly assaulting restaurant staff and stealing property. He said there were no cameras in the area but the CitySafe network a short time later tracked the group who were picked up by police and dealt with.

Restaurateurs have started paying for security patrols in the area.

C’mon, Aussies, c’mon

New challenge for tourism sector is to hold on to domestic holiday-makers

l CAIRNS CBD

| Nick Dalton

THE greatest challenge for the Far North’s tourism industry was retaining the multibillion-dollar domestic visitor market as more Australians chose to

holiday overseas, a business lunch in Cairns was told this week.

Conus Business Consultancy Services director Pete Faulkner, who delivered his annual economic outlook for the Cairns Chamber of Commerce on Tuesday, said domestic tourism had been “phenomenally strong” without

international tourist numbers.

He said tourism expenditure was “smashing records” with domestic numbers at $4.4 billion while international was $500 million, compared to $2.5bn and $1bn pre-COVID.

“Tourism has been the stand-out performance over the last few years,

particularly domestic tourism, but the challenge as Australians travel overseas is: can we hang on?,” Mr Faulkner told 160 movers and shakers.

“The hope is that as international improves it will pick up some of the slack in the slight downturn in domestic.”

Mr Faulkner said domestic numbers

were dominated by the drive market rather than by air travel which was back to about 90 per cent while international numbers through the airport were now about 70 per cent.

“Before we know it, we’ll be back to 100 per cent,” he said.

CONTINUED PAGE 2

Full story - Page 17. Picture: Maddy Gavin

Putting best feet ahead

Clinic is doing wonders for patients with diabetic complications

l CAIRNS NORTH

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

CAIRNS’ High Risk Foot Clinic has become an essential service for people living with diabetes across the Far North with its amazing record of reducing foot amputations from diabetes complications to nearly 20 per cent in the past five years.

A common complication of diabetes, up to 34 per cent of people with diabetes are expected to develop a diabetesrelated ulcer in their life and left untreated about 50 per cent of these people will require an amputation.

The clinic at the Cairns Diabetes Centre, established in 1996, has become a crucial service for residents living with diabetes, focusing on prevention and early detection and treatment through a team of diabetes experts.

“It’s like a one-stop shop where you can see podiatrists, endocrinologists, dietitians, psychologists, social workers

and have that holistic process for patients living with diabetes,” said Dr Luke Conway, endocrinologist and diabetes

specialist at the diabetes centre.

“The goal of the clinic and these services across Queensland is to reduce amputations

by addressing infections early and it can be life-changing for patients.”

Redlynch resident living

with type 1 diabetes, Deborah Bennett, has been a patient at the clinic for 15 years and said that without the clinic she wouldn’t be walking today.

While working on Green Island as a teacher in 1998, she noticed an ulcer that didn’t heal, that led to a diagnosis of Charcot foot, a complication of diabetes that attacks the bones, joints and soft tissues in the feet.

“My GP didn’t understand nor do anything about an ulcer on my foot that wasn’t healing and I found that the best place to come was the diabetes centre,” Ms Bennett said.

“They put a plaster on me and took the weight off my heel so I could heal. I’ve had more complications in the past 10 years, so I come here every two weeks, they make sure the ulcer isn’t getting bigger and that the infection hasn’t reached the bone.

“If the clinic wasn’t here, by now I probably wouldn’t be walking, I could’ve ended up in a wheelchair or even lost my legs.”

City’s economy bouncing back but not quite normal yet

FROM PAGE 1

The increase in international figures would involve the Virgin and Jetstar flights to and from Japan, increased services to Singapore and a potential re-start of the Hong Kong route, Mr Faulkner said.

He said international growth was being driven by Europe, the UK and Japan, the US and New Zealand, with China nowhere in sight.

“The UK and Japan have bounced back so dramatically, in

particular Japan,” Mr Faulkner said.

He said new markets to target included India, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam where there was a growing “consuming middle class” in the sectors of tourism, international education and exports.

Mr Faulkner said tourism was the second biggest employer in Cairns (about 18,300 in 202122, and now estimated at 20,000 – 2017 figures) after health care and assistance (about 27,000),

followed by construction and retail (14,000-plus).

He said while tourism was “a standout”, Cairns was not “a onetrick pony” town and was currently rated the most diversified regional economy in the state, according to the Hachman Index, behind the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast.

In other areas of the economy, Mr Faulkner said:

• Cairns Regional Council area’s gross regional product had broken through the $10

billion barrier for the first time (2021-22)

• Unemployment rates remained low at just below 4 per cent

• Normal employment levels were coming off record highs (about 136,000 people)

• The gap between males and females seeking jobs had closed from 15 points to 3-4 points

• The labour market was still tight with record job vacancies

• Interest rate hikes were not having much impact on real estate prices which had risen

by 30 per cent since COVID

• Rate hikes had hit rents, which were about $500 for a threebedroom house and $400 for a two-bedroom unit but had probably reached a peak

• The rental market was extremely tight at just one per cent

• The state budget for Cairns was “relatively good”, 5.9 per cent of the Queensland total at $962 million, $3685 per person, up $605 on the state average.

Dr Luke Conway, diabetes patient Deborah Bennett and senior podiatrist Ben Ward. Picture: Maddy Gavin

Be nice: That’s the advice from 109-year-old

l WHITE ROCK

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

AN active and compassionate life may be the key to longevity, at least, that is what White Rock resident Beryl James said was her secret to reaching 109 last Tuesday.

Aged care resident Beryl James has led a fulfilling life, living in Brisbane for most of her life, she was an avid golf and tennis player and has raised a loving family with three children and nine grandchildren. On July 25 she celebrated her 109th birthday next to her youngest daughter, her friends, and Councillor Cathy Zeiger who she shares the date with.

“Exercise and be nice to people,” advised Ms James on living a long life.

“That’s what has worked for mum, also she has never ever said anything bad about anyone,” said Vicki Brown, her daughter.

“She never had a car, so she always walked everywhere and she’s always on to me about exercise, exercise, exercise.

“Mum even has her own walking group here in the residence, they walk around the nursing home three times a day.”

“Every morning after tea,” added Ms James. Ms Brown, who was visiting from Canberra, said it was extremely touching for her to witness her mother’s milestone.

“It’s living history. Mum has lived through so much, she’s lived through two pandemics and survived them, lived through two world wars and she remembers everything but it’s always the good memories,” she said.

“Mum’s always so full of life, always looking to entertain people, she’s extremely social and that has kept her really young.

“We’re looking forward to 110.”

Back to drawing board

Councillors reject new reconciliation plan and seek further input

l PARRAMATTA PARK

| Nick Dalton

CAIRNS Regional Council’s reconciliation action plan has stalled with only two councillors voting for the document as other Unity team members sided with independents by 6-2.

Now councillors will take the plan back to the drawing board with at least one workshop to be held as a matter of urgency.

After the motion to adopt the plan was lost, division 1 councillor Brett Olds (who voted against) later in the council’s ordinary meeting on Wednesday moved that fur-

Briefs

l

SUPER

GOOSE

PROCEEDS from Edge Hill Memorial Bowl’s Club ‘Super Goose Club’ raffle tonight will go to New Zealand’s flood appeal. Prizes include a Reef trip, a Palm Cove night’s accommodation, a restaurant voucher, cinema VIP passes, car wash vouchers, Bowlo Bistro voucher, Lenard’s voucher, chicken trays, seafood tray, meat trays, bread vouchers and more.

l WORKS DELAYED

WORKS to remove aquatic weeds and other dead materials at Centenary Lakes has been postponed due to the rain. A long-arm excavator was due to start works this week to skim the surface of the lake to help open the waterway, improve water flow, and provide wading birds with a better landing zone onto the lake. The works will be rescheduled to be undertaken in the near future.

l TRAIL STARTS

ther details about the plan as well as the First Peoples Engagement Guidelines be the subject of a future workshop.

Cr Olds said he was concerned about the council endorsing state and federal aspects of the reconciliation plan and doubted any councillor had adequately read the 69-page document.

“Council has done a lot of great work in this space since 2011 when we adopted our first RAP. Unfortunately with this one, if anyone here can say they’ve read this back to front and understood it, I’d caution them that they’re telling porky pies,” he said.

“I don’t think we can vote on this without fully knowing

what it means.” Cr Olds said when councillors were spending ratepayers’ money they needed to know what it was being spent on and needed to know what they were voting for.

Mayor Bob Manning was taken aback.

“It’s all very well to vote against this, but where do we go to next?,” he said.

“My view is reconciliation is like climate change, it could turn out to be a major issue in the future of this community.

“I’m sure this motion doesn’t reflect how we really feel here. I think we’re a bit confused, I’ve found confusion is rife in this area.

“I think we need to set aside

a day to get a better understanding.”

Division 3 councillor Cathy Zeiger, who also voted against the motion, said it was “a very important plan that has mostly captured the council’s intent, but I feel this journey needs to be longer before (the plan) is adopted”.

“Each time I read through the document I was left with different questions.

“We’re supporting commonwealth and state initiatives – we don’t know what those initiatives fully involve just yet.”

Division 2 councillor Rob Pyne, who supported the motion with Division 4 councillor Terry James, said he could not

believe that a RAP would become so contentious. “We’re fortunate to be home to two of the oldest cultures in the world. It’s important to acknowledge that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people make up 10 per cent of our population,” Cr Pyne said.

“Reconciliation is so important. There’s always going to be temptation by some to insert the wedge and incite the majority against the minority.”

Other councillors who voted against the plan were Kristy Vallely, Max O’Halloran and Rhonda Coglan. Cr Brett Moller was absent.

The second motion to take the plan to a further workshop was passed unanimously.

CONSTRUCTION has started on the long-awaited $47million Wangetti Trail between Palm Cove and Port Douglas. An earth turning ceremony on Transport and Main Roads land at Palm Cove on Wednesday signalled the start of construction on the southern section of the 94km trail. Originally set for 2024, it was brought forward to align with planned works at a new subdivision which includes installing a new water main, kerb and channelling, inlet pits and earthworks.

l BIKE RIDE

A THREE-day annual Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride for Children’s Cancer Institute is due to arrive in Cairns tomorrow. More than 200 riders from across Australia are gearing up for the ride that left at 7am yesterday. The event first began in 1999 and has raised over $7.6 million of much-needed funds for Children’s Cancer Institute. This year, riders are aiming to beat the record and raise $440,000.

Beryl James and her daughter Vicki Brown cutting the 109th birthday cake.

Picture: Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

Veteran’s charity ball

Legacy’s gala dinner to raise money for $1.75m welfare house

l PORTSMITH

| Isaac Colman

FORMER Governor-General and army chief Sir Peter Cosgrove heads the lineup for the first Far North Queensland Legacy ball in September.

The ball will help raise money for a $1.75 million welfare house and mark 100 years of the veteran’s charity.

Sir Peter will be a guest speaker at the ball on Saturday, September 2.

Far North Queensland Legacy chief executive officer Rebecca Milliner said Legacy personnel and beneficiaries and children as well as Defence personnel had worked extremely hard to officially launch ticket sales at the HMAS Cairns navy base.

“While this will be our first year hosting a gala event for FNQ Legacy, we aim to hold the event annually and raise awareness of Legacy and continue to celebrate the great work that our staff, Legatees and dedicated volunteers do in the community,” she said.

“This event will give the locals the opportunity to join with us, hear our stories and honour our veterans’ memories with their fami-

lies.

“Our goal this year is to raise $1.75m to establish a Legacy House in Cairns as a base for support and service delivery for our beneficiaries to service from Cardwell in the south to the Cape in the north. A multi-service hub that can be a place where the whole community can come together.

“We will continue to grow our footprint in FNQ as more and more Defence personnel and their families continue to call this community home.”

Legacy beneficiary and project officer Melanie Allen said if it wasn’t for Legacy “I honestly don’t know where my family and I would be. Becoming a widow with three young children when my husband died was extremely traumatic and life changing for us as a family.

“The Legatee network stepped in and supported us from day one. And that is why my children and I are so happy to help the organisation wherever we can.

“The work they do is phenomenal in people’s darkest hours.

“They really are unsung heroes in our eyes.” Buy tickets at www.fnqlegacy.org.au

Contract awarded for hall

l TRINITY BEACH

A NEW community activity space for the Northern Beaches is a step closer after Cairns Regional Council this week appointed the successful tender for the new Trinity Beach community hall.

The council secured $935,000 from the state government to help fund a new $1.83 million Trinity Beach Community Activity Space, which will replace the ageing and out-dated Trinity Beach Community Centre.

MyBuild Commercial was awarded the contract for construction of the Trinity Beach hall, with works expected to start later this year and be completed mid-2024.

Cairns Mayor Bob Manning said, once complete, the new space would allow community groups to provide activities and programs in a welcoming and safe environment.

“The current facility is more than 40-years-old, is no longer fit for purpose, has insufficient capacity to meet community needs, and is not all-abilities accessible,” he said.

Division 9 Councillor Brett Olds said space would be about twice the size and feature contemporary all-abilities access, room for the Red Cross Thrift Shop, a 148sqm hall that can be divided into two meeting spaces, and to cater for indoor activities, such as dance and fitness.

Launching the Legacy gala ball were (back row from left) HMAS Cairns commanding officer Alfonso Santos, Rebecca Milliner of Legacy and Legacy volunteer Fay Lovekin. (front row, from left) Legacy beneficiaries Rhiley Allen and Melanie Allen, and Cr Amy Eden. Picture: Supplied

Katter lashes minister

l CARDWELL

KATTER’S Australian Party MP

Bob Katter is placing blame directly on Federal Health Minister Mark Butler for the closure of another North Queensland general practice which had been crying out for help for months.

Cardwell Family Practice, operated by manager Carmen Edmondson and registered nurse Julie McKay, will close the town’s only full-time clinic’s doors to its 1000 patients on September 1, after constantly struggling to recruit doctors and relying on locums.

The clinic’s woes were first brought to the attention of Federal Health Minister Mark Butler in December 2022 by Mr Katter.

Following the clinic’s July 10 announcement of its intent to close, the minister’s response to Mr Katter on July 14 was that his office had requested The Queensland Health Workforce offer locums to the clinic.

Mr Katter said the minister’s office also conceded that as a private business, it was the owner’s decision to close and that his government “had inherited the problem” but had addressed with “solutions” such as increases to the Medicare rebate. “They are just washing their hands clean of the problem here,” he said.

Labor’s federal representative in the Far North, Senator Nita Green, was asked for comment.

Ten-year-old cooks meals for homeless people on streets of Cairns

Schoolgirl’s generosity

l REDLYNCH

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

WHAT started as an idea in the kitchen by a 10-year-old four months ago has become a monthly supply of free meals for homeless people.

With the support of Dundees at the Aquarium, Olivia Latham of Redlynch is on a crusade to help people sleeping rough in Cairns supplying meals for clients of the not-for-profit Wheels of Wellness (WoW).

The project, which she started three months ago with her mum Hayley Latham, has gained traction, with Tina and James Wort from Dundees sharing their commercial kitchen with the young girl to diversify the menu and increase the output of meals.

After being shut down from volunteering at several charities due to her young age, Miss Latham took matters in her own hands, pitching the idea to WoW staff where her mum is currently doing her social work placement.

“I’ve been wanting to help cooking meals for people, and mum is doing her placement at WoW so we decided to make spaghetti bolognese for them,” Miss Latham said.

“The first time we did it was really exciting to see everyone saying how good the food was,” she said.

For three months mum and daughter got to work from their own kitchen

Council News Update

Positive ageing event

The Positive Ageing Expo returns to the Cairns Performing Arts Centre (CPAC) on Wednesday 2 August from 9am to 1pm.

With more than 40 stalls, the free event gives residents the chance to meet service providers, businesses and community groups that focus on seniors. There is live entertainment from 11am to midday featuring Rowly’s Country Combo in the CPAC main theatre. This is a free, ticketed event, with reservations via Ticketlink, phone 1300 855 835 or visit www.ticketlink.com.au.

Dog rego reminder

Dog owners are reminded they have until 31 July to renew their dog registration for the 2023/24 rego period. Dog owners who haven’t received their renewal notice are urged to check their spam/ junk folder if receiving their notice by email, or get in touch with Council.

Tobruk 50m pool closure

The 50-metre lap pool at the Tobruk Memorial Pool complex will be closed from Monday 31 July to Sunday 8 October to allow maintenance works to be undertaken. All other facilities, including the other pools, the Flowrider and kiosk will remain open.

and managed to make 15 meals that they would deliver monthly until Dundees got on board. They are now delivering 30 meals and are aiming to increase the output.

“A month later we posted photos of everything on Facebook and we’re friends with Tina and James Wort from Dundees at the Aquarium. They saw this and invited me to cook in their kitchen.”

Her work has led her to bond with WoW clients and volunteers during her monthly visits.

WoW volunteer and client Shane Walford said Miss Latham was a remarkable girl.

“She’s a wonderful girl and I believe if more young people want to do things like these, we should let them and support them,” he said.

“The food means a lot to us, anything that people can offer means a lot to us. She takes the time to talk to us and everyone feels grateful to her.

“I think she has a future as a chef.”

But social work is what really moves Miss Latham. For years she has been looking for charities to support and volunteer work. With this new project she has found a new passion for helping people. “This is something I would like to continue to do, it makes me feel happy and like I’m actually helping people,” Miss Latham said.

Ms Latham said she was proud of her daughter.

Olivia Latham, who cooks meals for the homeless, and Wheels of Wellness client and volunteer Shane Walford, who is grateful for her generosity. Picture: Supplied

Show dazzled in hard times

l PARRAMATTA PARK

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

DESPITE cost-of-living crisis concerns, Far North Queenslanders flooded the Cairns Show to enjoy three days of the best of the region’s agriculture and entertainment.

Another successful year was added to the books for the iconic show in its 132nd edition, with over 65,000 visitors and special appearances by the Ipswich Show president Darren Zanow and representatives from the Warwick Show looking for inspiration from the Cairns format.

Although the attendance didn’t come close to the 2014 record of 79,682 people, show president Ian Allen said it was extremely successful considering the circumstances.

“It was very successful, we don’t have the final figures yet but the final count will be from 65,000 to 67,000,” he said.

“Friday was an enormous day, and the exhibitors were very happy with the big crowd on Friday afternoon who came in to enjoy the night entertainment.

“We were expecting this level of attendance because we know people are really doing it tough and it’s a great result.”

With classic entertainment like the sideshow alley, equestrian and cattle shows, freestyle motocross, Esky races and food

stalls with Dagwood dogs and fairy floss the event had everything for families to enjoy.

Mr Allen thanked the community for their support of the show during such trying times.

“I’d like to thank the people of Cairns and the surrounding communities, I know that cost of living is very tough for everyone so we’re very thankful for their support,” he said.

“The

is great, all the staff are excellent, the grounds are beautiful too. A wonderful peaceful setting in lovely gardens”

- Keith

Eden and Abbie Millineaux from Mulgrave loved the baby animals, especially the chicks.

Zach and Zeke Kingdom of Edmonton snapped up show bags and enjoyed the rides.

Greg Davies and his son Sebastian from Westcourt. Redlynch’s Bryan Hoggins, Lisa Strong and daughter Vienna.

Chris Burdon and his son John from Mooroobool. Gabby Brybe and Stephen Kelly from White Rock.

Gurrunggurr Pryce from the Cairns CBD couldn’t wait to get his hands on a Dagwood dog. Pictures: Maddy Gavin

First Nations health at heart of UNICEF’s new young ambassador

Business awards open Youthful advocate

l

CAIRNS NORTH

| Nick Dalton

FIRST Nations social justice will be the focus for new UNICEF Australia young ambassador Cyril Sajio.

The 22-year-old fourth-year medical student is one of nine young ambassadors to join UNICEF’s 18-month program for aspiring young advocates from around the nation.

Mr Sajio has had a nomadic childhood. He spent his early years in India and Egypt, before moving to Australia where he has lived in five states. He currently calls Far North Queensland home and in his role as a young ambassador he will focus on First Nations social justice.

“While studying medicine, I have been living in parts of regional Queensland with high Indigenous populations,” Mr Sajio said.

“In this time and during my degree placements, I have seen the inequities that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people continue to face,” he said.

“I have noted the lack of representation of First Nations people in the healthcare system and the impact this has on First Nations people’s health outcomes.

“I want to use my time as a UNICEF Australia young ambassador to engage more young people in conversations

about global health, rural and remote health outcomes and the barriers that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people experience in accessing key social services.

“The protection and empowerment of children is one of the most important investments that society can make and I believe that organisations like UNICEF Australia play a critical role in ensuring that investment is made.”

During the program, the young ambassadors will be trained in leadership, advocacy, communication, and how to engage meaningfully with children and young people as part of a consultation process.

UNICEF Australia chief executive officer Tony Stuart said the organisation had a strong belief that the views of young people must be included in decision-making processes on issues that impact them.

“The purpose of UNICEF Australia’s young ambassador program is at the heart of everything we do – to hear from a wide range of young people and provide an avenue for them to be heard by decision makers,” he said.

“We know the applicants already have a strong interest in digital wellbeing, climate change and First Nations social justice and over the next 18 months they will hear from other young people of varying backgrounds from around Australia on these topics.”

l CAIRNS REGION

NOMINATIONS are now open for the 2023 Cairns Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards and local businesses are encouraged to apply.

The awards recognise the outstanding achievements of businesses in the region, acknowledging them for their hard work, exceptional business acumen and outstanding contributions to the local community.

With 10 categories open for nomination, ranging from people management to customer service, sustainability and environment to marketing and communications, there is something for everyone, regardless of business size, industry or structure.

“Whilst winning is the ultimate goal of all entrants, participating in the awards can be a very beneficial process for all businesses,” said Cairns Chamber of Commerce chief executive Patricia O’Neill. “It is an excellent opportunity to stop, reflect on how far you’ve come, celebrate your wins and plan for future growth,” she said.

Finalists will be announced on Thursday, October 5 at Crystalbrook Flynn’s Whiskey and Wine Bar followed by the winners at a gala ball on Friday, October 20 at the Cairns Convention Centre. Tickets will be limited to 450.

Visit: www.cairnschamber.com.au/ BEXAwards

Fourth-year medical student Cyril Sajio has been selected as a UNICEF young ambassador, representing Cairns. Picture: Supplied

WANT TO BE HEARD?

Aussies are in a lot of pain

AUSTRALIANS are hurting.

The very basics for a civilised society is the right to a home, food, education, health and aged care.

Free speech was won at great sacrifice by our war heroes, yet even that is being taken away from us.

Hundreds of people are living on the streets, in cars or couch surfing.

Perhaps we should send them all to Canberra since our government obviously don’t see it as a problem, otherwise they wouldn’t import another million people.

Many can’t afford enough food. Others can’t afford to switch on a heater or an airconditioner because of the enormous cost of electricity.

People often have to wait for years to receive surgery, even children.

In the meantime, their health deteriorates often leaving them with permanent damage.

An example of this is ear grommets for children with glue ear.

My own daughter was left in a wheelchair for over two years waiting for spinal surgery on her broken neck and now lives with permanent chronic pain.

Elderly people are left on waiting lists for home care or residential care. If they survive long enough to get into residential care we can see from investigations what substandard care and food they are subjected too.

All these privileges are the very basics of a humane society. Yet our government has failed on all counts.

Instead, they blame previous governments or world problems to cover up their own incompetence and bad planning. We had a worldwide

pandemic, yet it did not occur to our so-called leaders to upgrade and improve our hospitals.

We have a housing crisis, and their plan is to import another million migrants. Where will they be living? Will they get accommodation while Aussies continue to live on the streets?

Not to mention the extra competition for housing that will see prices and rents soar even further.

Suzy Malkinson, Cairns

Targa is not what it should be

AS a visitor to Cairns, from Tasmania, I agree that the current concept of Targa has got away from the original planned event.

Targa started more as a rally with a plate being awarded for consistent driving of the state’s roads over a number of days.

Then, like most events, the big money came into play and allowed it to become a speed event for the boys who could afford expensive toys.

I’m not aware of the situation with Targa Great Barrier Reef but in Tasmania we have experienced a number of deaths in this event.

Phil Brooke, Hobart

Editor’s note: There have been no fatalities during the Targa Great Barrier Reef.

Chamber’s mental health initiative

POOR mental health costs Australian businesses $10.9 billion every year in absenteeism, reduced productivity and compensation claims.

Vocal Local join our online debate be a

Last week we asked the question: What do you think about Targa Great Barrier Reef being cancelled again? Here are some of your comments.

THIS WEEK’S QUESTION

What events will you be attending as part of the Cairns Festival?

@cairnslocalnews

The Chamber Wellness Fund was developed to help chambers of commerce, including Cairns, across the state develop and implement local mental health and wellbeing initiatives for small business owners and operators in their area.

The Cairns chamber started by

The amateurs are in the drivers driving to their limit and beyond on public roads (even if closed for their participation), but the roads are not race quality. They are rough (most local roads are rubbish compared to a race track), they are often wet and built off camber to aid water run-off. They are also often lined with trees. Any mistakes from these drivers can be catastrophic as seen in Tasmania and the local circuits are no different and an accident waiting to happen.

Pedro, Facebook

Maybe it’s time all the drivers taking part must attend and pass an advanced driving course before registering for any Targa.

Jill, Westcourt

partnering with local service provid-

er, The Mindset Academy, to deliver a two-day face-to-face mental health first aid course, involving 24 businessmen and women, which included equipping adults in the workplace with the skills and confidence needed to recognise, respond and offer initial

Welcome to the Wild West, where money talks and rules do not apply. Carsten, Facebook

Safety must come first at all costs. Fortunately, there has been not been a fatal in the Targa Great Barrier Reef, but that should not lead to complacency. I believe one of the reasons the Captain Cook Highway between Palm Cove and Port Douglas is not used is because the organisers believe certain sections are just too fast.

John, Manoora

A review of some of the more tricky roads with too many trees and off camber design should be done. Some of these roads are not safe.

Stan, Gordonvale

support to a co-worker or another adult experiencing a mental health problem or mental health crisis.

The Cairns chamber intends to roll out additional mental health courses and workshops over coming months.

Patricia O’Neill, Cairns Chamber of Commerce chief executive

Flexible working arrangements at hand for working mums

WORKING mums-to-be in the Far North are now eligible to request flexible work arrangements from their bosses, under new national laws that came into effect over the past month.

As part of the changes, pregnant employees and those experiencing (or caring for someone experiencing) family or domestic violence are newly eligible to make flexible work requests. Others already eligible to make the request include workers caring for young children or someone with a medical condi-

tion, people aged 55 or older, and those living with a disability.

Workers in these categories must have been employed with the same employer for 12

months to be able to make a request.

Casual workers who meet the above eligibility criteria can apply as well if they have been and will likely continue to be employed with the same employer on a regular basis.

If you are one of these types of workers and want to request a flexible working arrangement, you should do so in writing.

In your request, you should explain what changes are being asked for, and the reasons for the requested change. Flexible work doesn’t just

mean working from home. Other examples include changes to start and finish times, compressed hours or job sharing.

Under the recent law changes, employers must follow certain steps before they can refuse a request for a flexible working arrangement.

This includes a written response that details the reasonable business grounds for refusing the request, and whether there are any other changes the employer is willing to make to accommodate the employee’s circumstances.

The employer must also provide information about referring a dispute to the Fair Work Commission, which is a new right that is open to workers under the recent changes.

This is significant as employers previously only had to provide written reasons for refusing a request, with no option for the worker to challenge or appeal that decision.

Examples of reasonable business grounds for refusing a request include that the request would result in a significant loss of productivity or have a

significant negative impact on customer service.

The recent changes are part of the staged implementation of workplace laws contained in the Secure Jobs, Better Pay Act that was passed by Federal Parliament in December.

Kristyn Lennon is a Cairns-based lawyer who heads Maurice Blackburn’s Tablelands office. This legal information is general in nature and should not be regarded as specific legal advice. If you have a legal question you would like Kristyn to answer you can contact her at klennon@mauriceblackburn.com.au

Gazza’s Gossip

Mossman shows how it’s done

LAST week’s ‘Goss’ celebrated a number of amazing events that have either recently taken place in the Douglas Shire or are about to happen at this busy time of the year.

You may also remember that I gave you a heads up on the weekend’s 71st annual Mossman Show, which I attended on Monday for a slice of the many fun things taking place over the long weekend.

I have attended a number of local shows in Far North Queensland and Mossman is certainly up among the best. The perfect sunny winter’s day also naturally added to the overall pleasure.

Once again regular favourites like the reptile show were popular with both locals and visitors, all keen to learn a little more about the beautiful but often dangerous creatures of this land.

There are, of course, the more traditional exhibits like the poultry and cattle, plus a chance to view some of the latest farming equipment up close and personal.

Mossman Show brings out a competitive edge with activities like the wood chopping, dog riding, equestrian events, cooking, plus

arts and crafts competitions. As expected at an agricultural show, there is always some interesting livestock to view, each aiming to be ‘best in show’.

No Mossman Show would be the same without a selection of food options available to help everyone keep their energy levels up. It was a great to see a variety of choice from different locations around the world.

I have to confess a curly potato was my chosen meal for the day. I think potato spiral is the posh term used.

One new option to tempt the taste buds, this year, was Ranger Nick and his Campfire Cooking Show. Judging by the interest, Nick may well be back again next year.

Music was very much part of the weekend, with entertainment provided by local school bands and live music to get the crowd moving on Sunday night.

When I arrived just after midday on Monday, I was there just in time to see Showtime FMX and their freestyle Moto X Show. As a well as a new feature for this year, the crowd pleaser promised to be one of the

headline acts for 2023. Once both the riders and motorbikes were elevated upside down in front of the gasping audience, it was easy to see why this was the case.

Another key attraction for the two days, as always, were the fair ground rides and stalls which were in full swing during my visit.

Having said all of this, once again for me, my favourite attraction was the pig racing. Loved by both the young and old, there is something very special about watching the cute little friends fly around the paddock in their unique style and their colourful bandanas.

Well, that’s just some thoughts for this year and I must say well done to all of the organisers, particularly the volunteers for helping to create another memorable Mossman Show.

I’m off for another curly potato, so for now it’s Gazza signing out. Send your stories to gazza@cairnslocalnews.com.au

Some prize exhibits at the Mossman Show.

Everybody loved the pig races.

Showtime FMX and their freestyle Moto X Show in full swing.

G’day from Ranger Nick and his Campfire Cooking Show. Sideshow alley is always a classic.

Gazza was a bit wary of this one.

The Circus Funhouse was a hoot.

on Gordonvale

Two amazing events

Great Pyramid Race and town’s cottage markets

l GORDONVALE

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

IN a true showcase of Gordonvale, the Great Pyramid Race and the Gordonvale Cottage Markets have joined forces in an event that aims to attract hundreds of visitors to enjoy a fun and fit day out on Saturday.

Now in its 64th year, the Great Pyramid Race set in Norman Park Gordonvale and up and down Walsh’s Pyramid is set to attract hundreds of interstate and international visitors that have come, not only to compete, but enjoy the markets and entertainment showcasing the best of Gordonvale this August 5.

Race president Renee Edwards said it was a special year for the race, attracting lots of visitors to Gordonvale.

“This is a one-of-a-kind event,” she said. “People all over Australia compete in it because there’s nothing like it, so people add it to their bucket list, adventure runners compete in it and lots of locals try out for it.

“People also say that it’s a great community event, they

love that all along the track they have the community cheering them on.

“We’ve teamed with Gordonvale Cottage Markets and that’s a huge event, so there will be lots of market stalls, activities, sponsored stalls, kids entertainment, giveaways, raffles, and dash for cash races.

“We have so many people coming from out of town, we usually only have a handful but this year we’re looking at a 3040 per cent travelling from outside the Cairns region to compete in our event.”

Ms Edwards said the partnership with the Gordonvale Cottage Markets had given the race new life and turned the event into a great showcase of Gordonvale’s traditions. “All proceeds will be going to COUCH and their cancer services”.

Categories include the 12km Woolworths Great Pyramid Race, the 9km Half Pyramid Race, junior races, COUCH fun run, and more. Registrations close on August 2.

To register visit www.pyramidrace.com.au

About the markets: www.gordonvalecottagemarkets.com

Racer David Wardrop (85) in the 2022 Great Pyramid Race.

Jacob Raymond (93) sprints from the starting line at the 2022 event.

Palm Cove Tourism Beachside start for 48km ride

Cyclists will tackle Palm Cove to Port Douglas on traffic-free Captain Cook Highway

l PALM COVE

PALM Cove is playing a part in the up-and-coming 2023 Port Douglas Gran Fondo Festival.

The 48km Medio Fondo will be departing from Williams Esplanade in Palm Cove in front of the surf club on Saturday, September 10.

Connect Sport Australia managing director Bade Stapleton said “the palm tree-lined beachside paradise will be a magical destination to begin our medio fondo (medium ride).”

“This distance will open up the opportunity to ride on Great Barrier Reef Drive (Captain Cook Highway) with no traffic to a much broader group of people,” he said.

“There are a few hills along the way, so we would encourage you to train for the ride, but it is well within reach of many who might be looking for a challenge.

“There are plenty of aid stations along the course to keep you fuelled and hydrated and you will have the opportunity to experience riding your bike along one of the most spectacular roads in the world – Great Barrier Reef Drive, which will be fully closed

to traffic in both directions.

“If you are up for it, you can even challenge yourself on the KOM/QOM climb up to Rex Lookout,” Mr Stapleton said.

“The fastest man and woman to conquer the 1km climb with an average gradient of 4.6 per cent will each receive a prize (eBikes excluded) or simply take your time on the climb, making sure you stay to the left at all times,” he said.

A short diversion around the quiet country backroads of Mowbray takes the riders past sugar cane fields, crossing creeks and rivers before arriving back at Great Barrier Reef Drive, turning left towards Port Douglas.

“Those chasing their best time will cross the timing finish point back where the start line was in the morning in front of Choo Choos at the Marina,” Mr Stapleton said.

“You will then continue around to the back of Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina where you will see the finish arch and recovery,” he said. “We’ll have a water sprayer and plenty of cold water ready to cool you down, plus a change tent to get changed.”

For more information visit https://bit.ly/44Cz7az

And they are off in the Port Douglas 48km Medio Fondo at Palm Cove.

Picture: Supplied

Town readies for annual festival celebrating architecture Healthy all-in-one business

Spotlight on Cassowary Coast Get into art deco swing

l INNISFAIL

IN a world that often focuses solely on physical health, Caroline Fisher (below right) recognised the profound need for a holistic approach to wellness.

In 1999, she embarked on a remarkable journey by establishing Health, Healing, and Harmony – a business that would forever transform the lives of countless individuals seeking a nurturing and spiritual path towards well-being.

“What sets my business and I apart is our unwavering commitment to addressing both the body and mind in equal measure,” she said.

“Instead of compartmentalising the different aspects of our well-being, Health, Healing, and Harmony understands that true harmony can only be achieved when there is synergy between the two. This holistic approach is what sets us apart from the countless others in the industry.”

Health, Healing, and Harmony is at 46 Rankin St, Innisfail, phone: 4061 1964 or visit www.healthhealingandharmony.com.au

l INNISFAIL

| Gail Sedorkin

INNISFAIL’S art deco heritage and stunning architecture will be celebrated at a five-day festival in September.

The Innisfail and District Historical Society is gearing up now to host their third annual Tropical Art Deco Festival with five days of art deco fashion, fun, history and music, and a mix of free and ticketed events.

Patrons are encouraged to wear art deco-style fancy dress to help set the mood and celebrate the town’s art deco architecture and heritage, which came about after the 1918 cyclone destroyed large portions of the town.

Society president Trish Ernst said dressing up was optional of course.

“But we’d love to see people get into the spirit of the event, wearing the fashions of the era to as many events as possible. We’ll have some great music of the era to help get in the mood as well,” she said The festival, which starts on Wednesday, September 13, in-

cludes the society’s Historical Cemetery Walk at the Innisfail Cemetery, Shire Hall Guided Tours, Art Deco Trivia Night, the Roaring 20s Basket Cabaret, Champagne Mystery Movie, Paronella Park tours, Lions Markets, Art Deco Cruises, jazz music in Edith Street and the fabulous High Tea and Fashion Parade at the Innisfail RSL.

“This year we have added a tour celebrating our art deco heritage and local history, with a guided walking tour of the Innisfail CBD on Thursday, September 14,” Ms Ernst said.

“The walking tour will be conducted weekly, from May to November, and needs to be booked through the Mission Beach Tourist Information Centre,” she said.

Sapore Di Italia joins the event program this year with their Jazz Cafe on the Sunday, featuring music and film clips of the art deco era, along with their signature great coffee, sweet treats and meals.

To book a market stall contact Chris on 0439 817 100, for information, an events program or tickets visit the historical society website at www.innisfailhistory.com.au

Health, Healing and Harmony

Participants in last year’s Tropical Art Deco Festival’s Gals and Gangsters Cabaret. Picture: Supplied

TimeOut

Business and pleasure

Performing arts conference coincides with 2023 Cairns Festival

l CAIRNS REGION

| Nick Dalton

SOME of the top performing arts specialists in Australia will be in Cairns when the city’s signature festival is being held.

Cairns Mayor Bob Manning said, in a coup for Cairns, the city had been chosen as the destination for the annual Australian Performing Arts Exchange conference by PAC Australia to be held during the Cairns Festival.

“This event, which has been held annually since 1986, brings together 350 to 500 industry leaders in performing arts from around the country and abroad,” he said.

“Having the conference during Cairns Festival is a great opportunity to showcase the city’s worldclass facilities, regional talent and venue-based skills to a national and international audience.”

The festival is from August 25 to September 3 and will be the first fully physical event since 2019 when COVID-19 restrictions forced it to be held through a digital medium.

Last year, more than 100,000 people attended an array of events, from the ever-popular grand parade and Carnival on Collins, to projections and immersive lighting installations and live music, as well as fireworks and art exhibitions.

Cr Manning said this year’s program was set to be more thrilling and diverse, packed with an array of events that will showcase the rich cultural identity of Cairns, including the much-anticipated return of Reef Lights at the Esplanade Lagoon.

The program also includes:

• The Grand Parade and fireworks

display on August 26 City Lights, which will light up the Cairns City Library façade with its annual projection

• A showcase of talent at Festival HQ, on the lawn at the Court House Gallery

• Carnival on Collins on September 3

• Live performances by iconic acts such as the Soweto Gospel Choir, the Queensland Symphony Orchestra, and Gulgi-barra (Sand Stories) by Miriki down by the Esplanade Lagoon Roald Dahl’s The Twits will be brought to life by Shake & Stir Theatre Co at the Cairns Performing Arts Centre.Spanning 10 days and across many venues.

Cr Manning said Cairns Festival was the biggest arts and culture event on the city’s calendar.

“Whether you are local or visitor, Cairns Festival is a great opportunity to celebrate our vibrant tropical north Queensland city, and everything that makes it so unique,” he said.

“Over the past six decades, the festival has grown into a staple fixture on the regional Queensland events calendar, drawing thousands of people to our city.

“This year’s program provides entertainment for all ages, with the return of events like the grand parade and fireworks, as well as the interactive Reef Lights that was so popular last year.

“Put those together with worldclass national and international music, theatre, art, film, and comedy events, and you have a feast for the senses.”

For more information on the Cairns Festival 2023 program and events, visit the website at www.cairns.qld.gov.au/festival.

Big Star Tour at the Tanks

l EDGE HILL

| Gail Sedorkin

TO coincide with the release of her new album, Big Star, Katy Steele is on a massive national tour that arrives at Tanks Arts Centre tonight.

Presented by Double J, this will be the first time fans get to witness the new album in its entirety along with a few crowd favourites and a full band.

The tour also marks the release of her latest single, ‘Come and See Me’, described as an elevated dance floor filler guaranteed to brighten your mood. The new track was recorded and produced entirely in her home studio in Perth with the help of Josiah Padmanabam (Grevious Bodily Calm).

Ms Steele said ‘Come and See Me’ was born when they were asked to contribute a song for a travel campaign, one that never eventuated.

“We were trying to capture the spontaneity of two people travelling, exploring new terrain and looking for a new landscape,” she said. She will be supported at the Tanks tonight at 7.30pm by Amber Farnan. Further information and tickets from tanksartscentre.com

Entertainer Katy Steele.

Colourful dancers at last year’s Cairns Festival. Picture: Cairns Regional Council

Emma twirling her way in city

l EDGE HILL

| Gail Sedorkin

EMMA Memma’s Twirly Tour

is twirling its way to Cairns in August.

She is bringing her friends Elvin Melvin, Waffles the Wombat and new friend BB Butterfly with her in her Butterfly Bus, and you can sing and dance with them all at Tanks Arts Centre on August 5.

After the sold-out success of her first Australian tour for 2023, Emma Watkins is delighted to be twisting her way to Cairns.

Full of dancing, music, singing, listening, stories and sign language, she said the August 5 show in Cairns marked a year since all the new characters, including Emma Memma, were created.

An Australian children’s entertainer, singer, actress and dancer, Ms Watkins is best known as a former popular member of the children’s group

The Wiggles from 2013 to 2021, the first female member of the group. In her recent pre-Twirly Tour visit, she played to packed and very enthusiastic audiences at libraries and childcare and preschool centres on her way up the Queensland coast, singing, dancing and reading her new book ‘Emma Memma: How Are You?’

During her journey to Far North Queensland, Facebook followers were invited to submit the name of a childcare or preschool centre for Ms Watkins to visit, with Child’s World Early Learning Centre in Bentley Park the thrilled audience on Monday.

“We have been working our way up the coast for almost two weeks – it’s been quite special,” Ms Watkins said.

“We want to be able to bring a show that people want, so visiting the community is our way to see what children and parents enjoy.”

To ensure the show is a more

inclusive experience, Oliver Brian, Emma and Sue Wright (Auslan and deaf culture consultant) create the songs based on signs that are appropriate for pre-school children, and everyone in the Twirly Tour signs while they dance, including Elvin Melvin, who is also deaf.

“We can’t wait for our friends in Far North Queensland to sing, dance and learn sign language with us in August,” she said.

“This is the first time we are taking our live show to beautiful Cairns and we are so looking forward to seeing families dressing up in their favourite orange, pink and green outfits.

“All the choreography in the show is based from sign language foundations, so all the performers onstage use that to encourage children to join in,” Ms Watkins said.

Tickets and information for the Live Nation Twirly Tour at Tanks Arts Centre are available on Ticketlink: visit: https://bit.ly/3Y4RGBQ

Stunning Reef photos

l EDGE HILL

|

Gail Sedorkin

WORLD-class photos of the fascinating creatures and scenery from beneath our oceans can be seen at a free exhibition at the Tanks Arts Centre until August 20.

More than 400 photographs are featured in the Underwater Photography Exhibition, all entries from members of the Nautilus Scuba Club Cairns in the club’s annual underwater photo competition.

Club Cairns member and media coordinator Terry Cummins said the exhibition provided the viewer with a glimpse into the diverse creatures and scenery that existed beneath the surface of our oceans.

“It’s not just on the Great Barrier Reef, but also all the other diverse places our club members find to go diving,” he said.

“The exhibition is also an ed-

ucational experience, so we encourage families to come along. There will be club members there to answer any questions about the photographs.

“Our annual competition and exhibition highlights the wonders of the underwater world and attracts world class underwater photographers from all over the globe. It also attracts some of the biggest names in the scuba

diving industry as sponsors who provide prizes worth tens of thousands of dollars including holidays in Fiji and PNG.”

In 2022 more than 5000 people visited the exhibition. The competition categories include macro, portrait, wide angle and behaviour.

There is also a themed category entitled Great Barrier Reef along with a portfolio category, in which photographers enter a set of five images that demonstrate their skill across all the categories.

The images are judged by independent professional and international award-winning photographers, and you, the audience, for the People’s Choice Award.

The free exhibition is open at Tank 4 from 9am to 4.30pm weekdays and 10am to 2pm on weekends.

For more information visit www. tanksartcentre.com

The beauty and colour of the Great Barrier Reef. Picture: Cathie Cummins

Emma Memma with Raine Meany-O’Keefe at Child’s World Early Learning Centre. Picture: Maddy Gavin

Cairns

Italian Festival in midst of 17-day events program across the Far North

Enjoy taste of Italy in tropics

l CAIRNS REGION | Gail Sedorkin

DON’T miss one of the best fireworks displays in Far North Queensland at the Cairns Italian Festival’s free Family Night and Fireworks tonight.

At Fogarty Park, this night of family fun from 6pm to 8.30pm is the first of five more major festival events still to be enjoyed this year.

The free Family Night will also launch the highlight of the 2023 Cairns Italian Festival – La Festa Day – in Fogarty Park from 10am to 11.30pm tomorrow. The Cinecitta Gala Ball and Awards night on August 4, the Mareeba Moriconi Bomben Soccer Cup on August 5 and the Mareeba Salami and Sausages Festa on August 6 complete the 17-day festival.

Festival president Steve Cordenos said guests could expect an Italian party like no other at each and every event of the 2023 festival, and highly recommended buying tickets now to avoid queues, especially for La Festa Day tomorrow.

The ultimate celebration of Italy’s food, wine, fun and culture, enjoy the best of traditional street food, wine, drinks and coffee from the 20 different regions of the European country.

Hosted by James Liotta, an award-winning performer and Master of Ceremonies (MC), the La Festa fun includes pizza acrobatics and a spaghetti eating competition, while the amazing line-up of entertainment includes the live performances of Siesta Cartel, the ‘Made in Italy’ Show, Ross Maio and local opera singers.

Both Turning Pointe Dance Studios and popular DJ Stefano Marciano will also be there to entertain the crowd, as well as at the ball.

One of the most sought-after events this year, the ball is themed after the iconic film studio in Rome – the Italian Hollywood on the Tiber.

Held at the Pullman International in Cairns on August 4 it promises to be a night of glitz and glamour which will feature the Italian Hall of Fame Awards and Life Member Awards.

Mareeba will be the place to be on the final weekend of the festival, when it hosts a new event, the Moriconi-Bomben Soccer Cup, on Saturday August 5, and the final event, the Mareeba Salami and Sausages Festa, on Sunday August 6.

It’s highly recommended you buy your La Festa tickets online to avoid the queues.

For more information and all tickets visit www.cairnsitalianfestival.com.au

Yu-Kang Huang (Patrick) enjoys slices of delicious pizza.

Picture: Jon Westaway

FAMILY NIGHT FIREWORKS FOGARTY PARK

l FRI JULY 28, 6:00PM-8:30PM

Bring the family down to the launch of the Italian Festa with one of the best fireworks display in North Queensland for some family fun!

We will have face painting and an incredible photo opportunity with Roman soldiers and more.

Cost: Free

Support our free family night event by purchasing a Raffle ticket at the event or online.

For more information visit www.cairnsitalianfestival.com.au

FREE MOVIE NIGHT LORIDAN DRIVE PARK

l SAT JULY 29, 6:00PM-9:00PM

Join neighbours and friends at Loridan Drive Park, Brinsmead for a free family screening of The Bad Guys as part of our Moving Picture Nights series. Moving Picture Nights are free, open-air family film nights hosted throughout the Cairns region.

Cubs Baseball Club will be selling burgers, popcorn, snacks, drinks and a sausage sizzle. Cash or eftpos available. Music will start at 6pm, followed by the movie screening at 7pm.

LATIN DANCE NIGHT YORKEYS KNOB BOATING CLUB

l SAT JULY 29, 6:30PM-9:30PM

Back by popular demand!

Cairns Latin Dance Club are coming back with a fun-filled night of music, dancing and live performances. Come on down and join the fun and simply be mesmerized by the live performances.

For more info and to book your table visit the Yorkeys Knob Boating Club website.

VEXPO 2023 TANKS ARTS CENTRE

l SUN JULY 30, 9:00AM-2:00PM

FNQ Volunteers Inc. is excited to bring you the 5th annual VEXPO event showcasing the range of volunteering opportunities available for Cairns people, of all abilities and ages to join groups and build social connections around common interests. Around 30 local not-for-profit organizations that involve volunteers will be promoting and showcasing what they do and how they do it to across the community.

FRIDAY

Eddie Skiba – Dunwoodys, 4:00pm

Kaweyova Duo – Salthouse, 5:00pm

Christina Ukulele – The Cotton Club, 5:30pm

Infinity Duo – Davies Park Mareeba, 6:00pm

ARCHIE MOORE CAIRNS ART GALLERY

l FRI JULY 28, 9:00AM-5:00PM

Archie Moore was born in Toowoomba, Queensland in 1970. His Aboriginal paternal heritage is Kamilaroi from the Northern Riverine region in Queensland. Archie Moore’s Pillors of Democracy is a critical examination of the four strands of modern democracy and the way in which they fail to protect the most vulnerable in our community.

Exhibition Runs: 24 June till 3 September 2023

SATURDAY

Barbary Coasters – Ellis Beach Bar & Grill, 2:00pm

Wendy Duo – Surf Club Palm Cove, 2:00pm

Waiting for Alice – Strait on the Beach, 3:00pm

Wind and Wood – Ten 06, 5:30pm

JOEL SAM EXODUS CAIRNS ART GALLERY

l SATURDAY JULY 30TH

Joel Sam was born in 1977 on Thursday Island, Torres Strait, Queensland. Sam is a Saibai artist of the Sui Baidam clan.

Exodus is a personal account of the mass movement of people in the 1940s from the island of Saibai in the Torres Strait to Mutee Heads on Cape York Peninsula.

Exhibition Runs: 7 July till 3 Sept 2023

SUNDAY

Talitha Jae – Ellis Bach Bar & Grill, 1:00pm

Infinity Duo – Cairns RSL, 1:00pm

Axon Bower & Phoebe Over – Dunwoodys, 2:00pm

DjGlennW – Dundees at the Aquarium, 2:00pm

IZAK, Tegan Koster Project and Madam Manana - Court

House Gallery, 6:00pm

Sax Man – Chill Café Palm Cove, 6:00pm

Hot Ice – Cazalys Cairns, 6:30pm

Mississippi Shakedown – The Mountain View Hotel, 7:00pm

Katy Steele – Tanks Arts Centre, 7:30pm

Big Pups – Silkwood Hotel, 7:30pm

Dale & Ange – Surf Club Palm Cove, 7:30pm

The Blues Healers – Trniity Beach Sports Club, 7:30pm

Arj Barker – CPAC, 8:00pm

Carinda Chrisite - The Parkview Hotel, 8:30pm

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

PolyMantra – Machans Beach Community Hall, 6:00pm

Infinity Duo – Davies Park Mareeba, 6:00pm

Sax Man – Coral Beach Lodge Port Douglas, 6:00pm

Kim Settle – Cazalys Cairns, 6:15pm

Big Pups – Arcadia Village Hotel, 7:00pm

Skye Karaoke – Smithfield Tavern, 7:00pm

Keith Eales – Roo Bar and Grill, 7:00pm

Kaweyova – Rattle N Hum Cairns, 8:00pm

Rowly – Red Beret Hotel, 8:00pm

Wild Willy – The Jack, 9:00pm

Fingerprint – Bar36 Reef Hotel Casino, 9:00pm

Sunday Sesh – German Club Cairns, 2:00pm

Sax Man – O’Donnells Café Bar, 3:00pm

Bobby Maguire - Sauce Brewing Co., 3:30pm

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

Joel SAM / Kongasu 2023 / vinylcut / 60 x 100 cm

Courtesy of the artist / Photo: Michael Marzik

Take a minute... Puzzles for you

Weekly Horoscopes

Be discreet and don’t reveal any personal information. Try to communicate if you wish to help. Put your energy into moneymaking ventures. Generosity will put you in the poorhouse.

Passion is about the best way for you to relieve tension. You need to take a long, hard look at yourself and your personal situation. You have been going through a period of change that no doubt caused problems with your loved ones. You might find it difficult to control your emotions.

CROSSWORD

Depression may result if you don’t get to do things your own way. Courses dealing with psychology or health care will be of interest. You can get your point across and make valuable connections. If you go shopping, only take what you can afford to part with.

to

Someone you least expect may not have your best interests at heart. Disharmony in your relationship may cause minor ailments. You will gain new friends if you get involved in environmental issues. You must get out and mingle.

Travel will be fun and entertaining. You would be best to work late to avoid such disharmony. Do the necessary chores and then do things that please you. Try to be understanding.

Physical work or exercise should be part of your schedule. You need to make your lover feel wanted, not like a piece of the furniture. Investments concerning your residence will be profitable. You can make new connections through friends or relatives.

ACROSS

Friends may not understand your situation. The locks, stove, gas, or electric wires may not be secure. Dream a little this week. You need to take a long, hard look at yourself and your personal situation.

Your high energy and discipline will enable you to complete any seemingly insurmountable tasks. Social get-together will bring you in contact with intelligent new friends. Don’t press your luck with your loved ones. Travel will lead you in new directions.

You will find your vitality is lowered. Job changes are in order. Go for interviews or send out resumes. Get proper medical attention and confront your situation decisively. Be discreet about your personal life or whereabouts. Be mysterious.

1 a marine mammal native to the coasts of the northern and eastern North Pacific Ocean (3,5)

5 a poor urban area occupied primarily by a minority group or groups (6)

9 made at home, rather than in a shop or factory (8)

10 a gentle wind (6)

11 to experience an early, unintentional end to a pregnancy (8)

blow in a door or gate (6)

23 the killing of one human being by another (8)

24 to make previously unknown or secret information known to others (6)

25 at the present time, in contrast with the past (8)

26 a soft white metallic element that takes a high polish (6)

27 an event at which people ride horses (8)

DOWN

1 an organized plan for doing something (6)

2 not quite or very nearly (6)

3 a male domestic cat (6)

4 the result of or is created by an activity or process (3,7)

6 causing horror (8)

7 to abstain from alcohol (8)

8 a poisonous evergreen shrub grown in warm countries for its clusters of white, pink, or red flowers (8)

13 the occult significance of numbers (10)

15 a green, crystalline heptahydrate mineral of ferrous sulfate (8)

16 a day or period of celebration, typically for religious reasons (8)

You could have a need to make some changes this week. Money can be made if you use your ingenuity. Don’t volunteer private information about yourself unless you’re prepared to be talked about behind your back. You can’t live your life for others.

Don’t overspend or give too freely to others. Be careful if a friend asks you for advice. Take time to explain your intentions to loved ones. Your health may suffer if you don’t control your present situation.

Your need to put great detail into everything you do may cause you to miss the overall picture. Your disciplined attention to jobs will enhance your position. You can make headway if you share your intentions with someone you care about. You will have original ideas for ways to make extra money.

12 refuse to acknowledge or maintain any connection with (6)

14 to make a formal judgement on a disputed matter (10)

18 a supposed secret that is in fact known to many people (4,6)

22 an explosive device formerly used to

17 an identification used by a person with access to a computer, network, or online service (8)

19 to take control of an aircraft or other vehicle during a journey (6)

20 Large insect with long transparent wings (6)

21 a traditional Japanese entertainer (6)

Real Estate Boost home’s sales appeal

Expert: Good preparation of a house can lift the sale price by 15 per cent

l PROPERTY

A REAL estate expert believes that by preparing a home for sale correctly can add 15 per cent more to the sale price.

Kellie Richardson, the owner, founder and principal interior designer at Kurved by Design, said it was critical to make the home enticing.

“We’re facing a challenging and uncertain economy right now, but trust me on this. If you’re looking to put a property up for sale, the best thing you can do is to stage the property,” she said.

“It’s worth the investment because you can get up to a 15 per cent higher sale price in the end.

“Some people get the wrong impression about staging a property. No, it’s not about making a home look like it’s lived in. It’s actually about making a home look more enticing.

“The more enticing, the more people will pay – and that’s where I come in. Consider me your home facial thera-

pist – I provide Botox for your home.

“A well-presented property will attract greater attention from buyers, sell faster and

for a higher price. “In fact, over 83 per cent of buyers find it easier to visualise the property as their future home when it’s staged.

“However, preparing a house for sale can be overwhelming, and that’s totally understandable.

“But that’s where a good

staging company comes in.”

A good stager will do all the work and take the stress away leaving your property to look stunning and totally sellable.

“What we do is to elevate your home so that it connects emotionally with buyers who will want to love it as their home.

“It’s hard to visualise how your family would live in an empty room, but if you stage it well, potential buyers can walk around the property and think how well it would fit the needs of their family.”

Ms Richardson said it was important to understand that, like any industry, staging varied in quality due to the experience and skills of the companies delivering the service.

“Just because a staging company offers nice chairs or an extended hire period, doesn’t mean they are good at what they do,” she said.

“Staging is more about emphasising positive aspects of a property and distracting from the negative.

“Home staging is not an expense, it is an investment. It is important to understand this and recognise how it fits into the overall sales process.”

Kellie Richardson of Kurved by Design says preparing a home properly will draw more buyers to open homes.

Motoring

Mazda refreshes its popular CX-3 to include new hi-tech

l CAR LAUNCH

| Nick Dalton

MAZDA’S top selling CX-3 model range is to be boosted with more equipment and new safety and technology.

For 2023, the line-up will comprise of the entry-level Sport, Pure, Evolve, Touring SP and range-leading Akari grades.

Prices have risen by between $1290 and $2790 across the range, and the base model – now with an automatic transmission as standard – is estimated to cost nearly $30,000 drive-away once

on-road costs are included.

Pricing, before on-roads, ranges from $26,800 for the Sport to $38,620 for the flagship Akari, and all grades gain a significant uplift in equipment.

The latest update also offers an exclusively front-drive focused line-up, all powered by a four-cylinder 2.0-litre Skyactiv-G (G20) petrol engine and paired with Mazda’s own Skyactiv-Drive 6-speed automatic transmission.

Replacing Neo Sport trim, the new Sport specification adds 16in alloy wheels (previously

steel wheels), Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA). Wireless Apple Carplay is also added as standard across the range, along with wired Android Auto, autofolding power mirrors and remote window control.

The Pure replaces Maxx Sport and now offers highlights such as LED lights front and rear with Daytime Running Lights and High Beam Control (HBC), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Driver Attention Alert (DAA) and a crisply presented heads-up display (HUD),

enhancing safety and in-cabin comfort.

The Evolve grade supersedes Maxx Sport LE and is the midpoint of the model range, and now adds 18in machined alloy wheels (previously 16in) as well as front parking sensors. Premium white leatherette and tan suede upholstery are included.

The Touring SP (previously sTouring) introduces sportier styling with 18in black machined alloy wheels, a black painted roof and black leather and Grand Luxe suede interior with blue highlights. A black

chrome signature wing and gloss black front grille are also new for 2023.

At the top of the range is the Akari, which gains further luxury with Bose premium audio featuring seven speakers and 18in black machined alloy wheels for 2023, in addition to the power sliding glass sunroof, 360-degree camera and adaptive LED headlights.

An attractive new Aero Grey paint hue also joins Soul Red Crystal metallic, Machine Grey metallic, Polymetal Grey metallic, Platinum Quartz metallic,

Jet Black Mica and Snowflake White Pearl Mica. Aero Grey matches well with the contrasting black roof on the Touring SP.

Mazda Australia managing director Vinesh Bhindi said: “As the entry point into the Mazda SUV range, the CX-3 has a huwgely important role to play. At this price point, buyers expect understated styling, extensive safety features, high specification and cutting-edge connectivity, which is exactly what our latest update delivers on.”

The updated CX-3 will go on sale in September 2023.

Mazda has added a new colour, safety, technology and equipment to the top selling CX-3 SUV.

The new Aero Grey hue matches nicely to the black roof of Touring SP.

The interior of Mazda CX-3 with leather-like finishes.

Motorbike partnership

l MOTORCYCLES

LONG-time Cairns motorbike service centre Bikecraft is entering a new era with a partnership, a full rebrand, and a move to a different location.

Originally opened in 2003 by Russell Claremont, Bikecraft has launched a partnership with Alan Ren of the Cairns Cars Auto Group.

“It was the perfect opportunity for everyone to benefit,” said Mr Ren.

“This is the marriage of like-minded people in myself and Russell,” he said.

“I had just started to look into investing into a superbike dealership in Cairns, and after meeting, it became quickly apparent that we both believe in the same values of delivering quality products and both harbour the same passion for premium motorcycles.

“Before long all the pieces had fallen into place for a great new era to begin for Bikecraft in Cairns.”

Mr Claremont has developed a reputation in Cairns for down-to-earth customer service and an uncanny ability to diagnose and fix even the most obscure motorcycle mechanical issues.

Mr Ren said he hoped to build upon the foundations that Mr Claremont had laid by investing in the next chapter of Bikecraft side-by-side with one another as they rode into

the future.“We’re really excited to announce that we’ll be stocking two of the world’s premium superbike brands at Bikecraft in Ducati and Triumph, which will be the first time there has ever been a dedicated dealership for both of these brands in Far North Queensland,” said Mr Ren.

“And, of course, we will continue to be the local authorised service centre for Vespa, Moto Guzzi, Aprilia, and MV Agusta, along with Ducati and Triumph, and we’ll happily service any other bike brand as well.”

The new era of Bikecraft comes with a complete overhaul of the brand and the website, modernising the Bikecraft image and offering customers the chance to see the latest Ducati and Triumph models in person and online.

Mr Ren also plans to add a motorcycle parts and merchandise store to the website in the very near future.

“Russell has done an incredible job in making Bikecraft the best motorcycle service centre in Far North Queensland and we’re now going to expand on that and make Bikecraft the FNQ hub for all things to do with motorbikes,” said Mr Ren.

Bikecraft is at at 197 Lyons St, next door to Skoda Cairns and its new partners at Cairns Cars on the corner of Mulgrave Road and Lyons St.

Bikecraft’s Russell Claremont has joined forces with Alan Ren of Cairns Cars to set up a service centre in Lyons St.

Local News Cairns

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Cairns

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Cairns Local News collects personal information to assist us in providing goods and services which you have requested to process competition entries, giveaways and to improve our products and services to you. We may be in touch by phone, mail, fax or internet to inform you of any services and promotions which may be of interest.

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It is with enormous gratitude and appreciation that The Cairns Show Association acknowledges the wonderful support of the people of Cairns, Regional and Remote Communities, Federal Government, State Government, and the Cairns Regional Council.

Our Sponsors, Committee Members, Staff, Volunteers, Judges, Stewards, and Exhibitors for their generous contribution towards creating a very successful 2023 Cairns Show.

We thank you all for being a part of Australia’s largest, regional Agricultural Show and we look forward to sharing The Cairns Annual Show in 2024 with you.

The Cairns Show Association President - Ian Allen

Friday July 28th

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

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

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

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

72-year-old female, likes gardening and outdoors, looking for an independent, outgoing male companion.

Phone 0407476653

DO I CANCEL AN ADVERTISEMENT?

Should you need to cancel an existing advertisement campaign please advise in writing 7 days prior to publication. Should you need to cancel an existing advertisement please call the office on 07 4031 7678 before the weekly deadline:

Display Ads: 5:00pm Tuesdays Classifieds: 4:00pm Wednesdays Another method of cancellation is by Emailing: admin@cairnslocalnews.com.au

FNQ Markets

Saturday July 29th

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

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

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

Mareeba: Mareeba Race Course, 07:30-12:30

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

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

AL-ANON FAMILY GROUPS

920

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

Al-Anon can help you.

Meetings held weekly at:

• Cairns City: Tuesday nights, 6pm to 7pm Edmonton: Thursdays, 12pm to 1pm

• Kuranda: Mondays, 11am to 12 noon For further information, Call 1300 25 2666 or www.al-anon.org.au

4pm Wednesday Local News Cairns every

Classifieds Deadlines

Sunday July 30th

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

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

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

Mission Beach Monster: Ulysses Park, Mission Beach, 07:30-12:00

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

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

Tanks: Tanks Arts Centre, 46 Collins St, Edge Hill, 09:00-14:00

2015 EVERNEW CARAVAN

Blues take lead in series

Nail-biting night as Team NSW comes out on top in Cairns PBR

l BULL RIDING

| Isaac Colman

AFTER a nail-biting night of head-to-head competition, Team New South Wales came out on top and turned the tables on Queensland, taking the win in front of a sold-out crowd at the PBR Origin Series’ final game in Cairns last weekend. Since the series’ beginning in 2019, Team Queensland has secured all four Origin victories after winning the first two rounds of 2023 in Newcastle and Brisbane.

The lead was finally taken by New South Wales’ Sam Woodall, delivering a performance that shot the Blues into the lead.

This Cairns Origin III event marks Team New South Wales’ first event win of the 2023 series.

PBR Australia general manager Glen Young said that the extraordinary night was a great way to end the series.

“New South Wales hasn’t had the greatest run since we started the Origin series, but the highlight for me was seeing Cody and those guys get the win, which will give them the confidence going into the 2024 Origin round,” he said.

“It really was neck and neck the entire night and came down to the final ride from Sam Woodall.

“It was great having the final Origin event leg in Cairns, where the atmosphere and support is always electric.”

With only a few events left until the final showdown, riders will now be looking to gain crucial points ahead of the grand finals in Townsville on November 3 and 4, which is the richest bullriding event in the southern hemisphere.

“It could be anyone’s race come the end of the year, and that $75,000 could be going to someone we don’t expect,” said Mr Young of the grand finals.

“The race is just starting. It’s been an awesome start to the season, and it’s been great to have so many bullriders back, but not only that, it’s great to see them getting their bulls ridden,” he said.

Sport Results

MOSSMAN MEN’S BOWLS

Saturday 22 July. Bernie Wolland, Jim Harris, John Arnold vs Geoff Sims, Terry Richards, Jock Constantine 18-14. Charlie Toohey, Wayne Parkes, Tony Brlyack vs John Fleming, Graham Hutchinson, Bernie Savage 20-15. Ray Prain, Andrew Harris, Derek Franklin vs Peter Worley, Peter McGrory, Brian King 23-10. Steve Cue, Michael Sims, Arthur Pritchard vs Col Johnson, Richard Anderson, Bill Allison 26-12. Bill Smith, Frank Rigor, Alistair Douglas vs Reg Richardson, Dave Turn-

Inspiring netball sessions

l NETBALL | Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

THE visit by Queensland Firebirds stars Kim Ravaillion and Lara Dunkley to Cairns was a total success with both clinics sold out ahead of the event on July 23 and Cairns Netball young netballers left inspired.

With over 20 athletes attending each of the sold-out clinics and over 70 people joining the meet and greet, the Queensland Firebirds regional tour had a happy ending in Cairns with young netballers in the region ready to pursue a future in netball.

Cairns Netball Association operation manager Chloe Butler said having prominent netballers like Ms Ravaillion and Ms Dunkley engage with the regional netballers was key in their development as athletes.

“It is very important to have netballers from the elite levels visit young netballers in FNQ,” Ms Butler said.

“It is often difficult for young netballers in regional areas to look into the future of their netball careers and understand the pathways into the elite level, so it is critical for them to have the opportunity to meet their role models and hear their stories as to how they made it to that level.

“The kids were extremely excited to meet and talk to the Firebirds players.”

bull, Warren McCoist 27-11. Sas, Jason Pearce, Joe Girgenti vs George Wilmot, Nev Stone, Bob Carroll 29-12. Pairs Club Championship winners; Eric Smith/Nev Fletcher d Gerrard Beech/Kel Cunningham 30-8.

WEST CAIRNS MEN

Tuesday 18th. 1st place; T.Moulds, D.Nicholls, J.Wilcox. 2nd place; Wally, Wayne, Steve. Thirsty Thursday best players; Graham Collins, John Greenway, Stan Williams. A Grade Pairs Final; S. Carollan, A. Radford vs W. Edwards, S. Howells

37/15. Sunday 23rd. 1st place; Larry Vernon, Kale, Jake Weston. 2nd place; F. Clarke, N. Mallyon, Scott.

EDGE HILL BOWLS CLUB

Ladies’ bowls: Thursday 20th July. Winners; Gai Barrett, Peter Whitehead. R/U: Lidia (NZ visitor), Irene Crampton. Ladies’ championship bowls: Club A Singles; Elaine Whitehead. Club Pairs; Lou Pomroy, Jeannie Wild. Club Fours; Karina Homer, Joyce Ault, Jill Alexander-Sachse and Irene Crampton. Men’s championship bowls: Club A Singles Semi Final; Lyle Braggins vs Steve Henson 2510. Club B Singles Final; Peter

Ryan vs Chris Henson 25-18. Mixed social bowls: Tuesday 18th July. night social bowls winners; Gary Pomroy, Joey Walker. R/U: Allan Colson, Helen Aumuller. Tuesday Night winners; Allan Tunstall, Frank Battye. Wednesday Night. Winners; Phil Lee, Joey Walker, Mick Kowalczyk. R/U Lou Pomroy, Frank Battye and Greg Thimios. Saturday 22nd July. Winners; Gai Barrett, Bruce Moseley. R/U: Lou Pomroy, John Kerr.

MARLIN COAST BOWLS

Tuesday morning bowls. 1st; No Winners. 2nd, No Winners. Tuesday afternoon Men’s tri-

ples. 1st; Dennis, Steve F, John R, Second- Danny, Dave, Bryan.

Tuesday night bowls. Winners; Charlie, Sandy, Shooee, B H, Sisca, Peter. Wednesday mixed bowls. 1st; Trish, Michael, Dave. 2nd; J Ward, L Roberts.

Thursday Morning Bowls. 1st; No Winners. 2nd; No winners.

Thursday Mixed triples. 1st; Danny, Des, Glenda. 2nd; Jean, Andrea, Lee. Saturday Morning Scroungers. Winner; Steve Pitt, R/U; Gary McCall.

BROTHERS EDMONTON

Consistency Singles: L

Hoskins def S Bates. Championship triples: C Populin, K Paki, D Begg def J Baird, B Mason, S

Rowe. Men’s Section: Wednesday July 19th Overall Winner: David Cairns, Mick Bucklar, John Populin; 2nd Don Stewart, Rob Moody, Allen Begg; 3rd Kevin Richardson, Jeff Mason, Denis Jacoora.

Saturday July 22nd and Sunday 23rd Brothers Edmonton

Men’s Classic: Saturday: 1st R Wilson, M Smith, K Mitchell, Dutchey; 2nd: S McInerney, M Hooker, B Shroj, A Hansen; 3rd A Paraha, P Smith, Wayne, S Della Pozza. Sunday: 1st: R Wilson, M Smith, K Mitchell, Dutchey; 2nd: J Jackson, B Power, D Steward, J Blain; 3rd: S McInerney, M Hooker, B Shroj, A Hansen.

Mareeba’s Kurt Shephard in flying form at the Cairns PBR last weekend but NSW beat Queensland. Picture: Supplied

Hundreds of competitors expected

Aiming for Olympic gold

l ATHLETICS

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

IT’S ready, set and go for the Coral Coast Athletics Carnival at Barlow Park this weekend, where hundreds of club athletes, professional athletes and Olympians from across Australia are set to compete in one of the Far North’s biggest athletics carnivals.

One of the most important events in the Cairns Athletics calendar, over 300 athletes will be competing in the event on July 29 and 30 with up-and-coming local athletes like discus thrower Hannah Edwards, runner Kaiyan Blue and Olympian Ash Moloney will fill the track and field with their talent.

The event organised by Cairns Athletics and Athletics North Queensland holds a World Athletics and Australia Athletics permit, so athletes will not only be competing to represent their region, but to qualify for national and inter-

national competitions, accumulate ranking points, break national and world records, and have their performances added to world top lists.

Athletics North Queensland general manager Dayne O’Hara said the carnival was the pride of Cairns athletes.

“This year we have over 300 athletes and they’re coming from as far away as New Zealand to participate,” he said.

“The competition is for athletes four-years-old to masters or competing alongside them, and we have athletes from clubs, social and non-members but we also have Olympians competing before they head off to the World Championships in August.

“Cairns and the FNQ regions have always had a strong pride in the Coral Coast Carnival, and you have over 18 clubs participating to take ownership of this world recognised competition.

“World Athletics has adopted the event so international athletes can actually get ranked

and get qualifications, not only for the World Championship but for the 2024 Olympics.”

This year, Olympian Ash Moloney who won bronze in decathlon at the Tokyo Olympics, and New Zealander and heptathlon athlete Portia Bing will be the highlights of the event next to local up-and coming-athletes like throwing star Hannah Edwards, 17, and teams like Pace Project led by Olympian Jill Boltz.

“Having competitions in Cairns is extremely important,” Mr O’Hara said.

“The Cairns region is known for having some great coaches and supporting our athletes to go into pathways, what Coral Coast provides is that next level of competition and opportunities for athletes to test their skills to further their athletic career.

Nominations for athletes are now closed but community members are encouraged to join and support the local heroes from the stands at Barlow Park this weekend.

Four rounds left in Far North’s 2023 footy season

l SOCCER

WITH only four rounds remaining for the 2023 regular season, every point counts as there are only 11 points separating second to sixth on the FQ Far North QPL ladder.

Sixth-placed Marlin Coast Rangers are fighting for the season when they host the second-placed Leichhardt Lions, fifth-placed Southside Comets travel to Stratford Dolphins, fourthplaced Innisfail cutters travel to newly crown premiership, the Edge Hill Tigers, while third-placed Mareeba Bulls travel to bottom side Redlynch Strikers.

The Rangers head into their home game against the Lions knowing only a win will do as they look to chase down the fourth-placed Cutters who are seven points in front, but the Cut-

ters are away to the undefeated Tigers and a win for the Rangers would boost their hopes of staying alive comes September.

The fifth-placed Comets will also have one eye on the Cutters away trip to the Tigers, as they also play away to the seventh-placed Stratford Dolphins. The Comets currently sit four points adrift the fourth placed Cutters but know only the full three points will keep their season alive.

The Bulls head to Calanna Park on Saturday night knowing all three points would all but lock in a finals berth for 2023, but with two games against the Leichhardt Lions coming up, a win against the Strikers and with two games against the second placed Lions coming up, second place is not out of reach for the Mareeba-based side.

Discus thrower Hannah Edwards will be back at the 2023 Coral Coast Carnival at Barlow Park this weekend.

Marlin Coast Rangers are fighting for the season.