Cairns Local News August 30 2024

Local News Cairns

Fluoride fight

Petitions launched for and against chemical in water supply

l CAIRNS REGION

| Nick Dalton

THE battlelines have been drawn over the contentious fluoride debate in Cairns.

The previous regional council refused to add fluoride to the region’s drinking water supply.

But the new council’s Our Survey specifically asks the community about the chemical: Do you support or oppose the addition of fluoride to the city’s water supply?

Mayor Amy Eden would not commit to fluoride either way in her election campaign but promised to survey the community about the issue in the first 100 days of office.

Earlier this month, medical specialist Dr Sarah Coll launched an online petition: https://bit.ly/3AEb2pH

About the same time one opposing fluoridation was started by Zane Cosgrove: https://bit.ly/3T68rLJ

Dr Coll said Cairns was experiencing a health crisis.

“Our community suffers from a high rate of tooth decay, pneumonia, and other related conditions that continue to strain our hospitals

and dental clinics,” she said.

“Our health problems, specifically dental, can be significantly reduced by a seemingly minor yet incredibly impactful measure – the reintroduction of fluoride in our water supply.

“Studies have consistently shown that water fluoridation is an effective, safe way to improve dental health (source: Australian Health Policy Collaboration).

“Its beneficial effects include improved tooth strength, protection from decay, reduced dental caries, and overall improved oral health. These positive outcomes are not just for children, but for people of all ages, making it an essential public health measure.

“In many parts of Australia, water fluoridation has been successfully implemented for over 60 years, helping to reduce dental cavities by up to 40 per cent (source: National Health and Medical Research Council).

“We believe that Cairns should also reap these benefits. Our dental health crisis is tangible, and it’s taking its toll on our community.”

CONTINUED PAGE 2

childhood education for children aged from 6 weeks to Kindergarten.

l FAR NORTH

A NEW report from James Cook University’s TropWATER reveals a thriving dugong population in Far North Queensland – stretching from Cape York to Mission Beach – in stark contrast to concerning dugong numbers in southern Queensland.

The survey results show the Far North is home to about 7000 dugongs, almost double the number reported in central and southern Queensland.

Lead dugong researcher TropWATER’s Dr Chris Cleguer said it was encouraging to see dugong numbers and their calves stable in the Far North.

He said over 17 years the dugong population in the Far North had grown by about 2 per cent per year, indicating that the dugongs in this region were in good condition.

“Our results show dugong populations in the Far North are thriving overall. This is great news, and we hope this trend will continue in future monitoring surveys,” Dr Cleguer said.

“This trend is notably different from what we observed in our last surveys in central Queensland and the southern section of the Great Barrier Reef – especially the concerning numbers from the Whitsundays to Bundaberg.”

Dr Cleguer said healthy seagrass meadows were essential for dugong survival.

Dr Sarah Coll is leading a campaign for fluoridation to be put back in the Cairns Regional Council‘s drinking water supply via an online petition. Picture: Supplied

l

PARRAMATTA PARK

| Nick Dalton

AN extra $47 million has been promised in a major upgrade of Barlow Park to help the region attract more major events and play its part in the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Australian and Queensland governments have jointly allocated funding from the $1.87 billion Minor Venues Program for the total $91m upgrade.

The upgrade will result in the current 1700-seat western stand rebuilt and seating more than doubled to 3500 permanent seats, with an additional 1500 retractable seats over the existing athletics track.

During the games, the venue will be able to host football preliminaries with the addition of around 15,000 temporary seats bringing total capacity to 20,000.

Spectators will enjoy improved visibility and amenities, with the upgrade including space for food and beverage outlets and a function room, and incorporating best practice sustainability and accessibility standards.

The upgrade will also deliver better access to on-site amenities for athletes and players, including equitable access for female players and referees thanks to an increase in the number of changing facilities.

The tender process for the manag-

ing contractor will start soon with the aim of works beginning in late 2025 to finish in 2028.

Federal Infrastructure Minister

Catherine King said the upgrade would provide Cairns with a world class stadium capable of hosting football preliminaries during the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Premier Steven Miles said in eight years’ time, “our Aussie football stars of the future could be playing here at Barlow Park in search of a gold medal in front of 20,000 people”.

“An upgraded Barlow Park will provide Cairns with a world-class venue that will help entice international events to the city and help inspire the next generation of our sporting stars,” he said.

Cairns Mayor Amy Eden said the upgrades would also increase the number of female change rooms which would help position the Cairns region as a leading destination for women’s sport in Australia.

“People would have noticed the huge lights going up in recent weeks which will also help shine a spotlight on our city’s credentials as a sporting hub,” she said.

Games venue and legacy delivery authority chief executive officer Emma Thomas said, importantly, Cairns Athletics Club would be able to remain at the ground with the athletics track retained.

FROM PAGE 1

“By doing so, the council can protect our teeth and help alleviate the strain on our health services.

“The absence of fluoride in Cairns water is a glaring oversight that is diminishing the dental health of our residents and placing unnecessary strain on our healthcare system.

“Regions like Cairns, who do not have fluoride in their water, are recording double the rate of tooth decay to areas like Townsville, the Gold and Sunshine coasts and Brisbane, with a fluoridated supply.”

JCU Professor of Prosthodontics and Operative Dentistry

Extra $47m to add thousands of extra seats for 2032 Olympics

Petitions rally community to support or oppose

John Abbott said medical and dental professionals had renewed a push for water fluoridation in Cairns, following the latest health figures that showed nearly half of children who visited public dentists last year (2023) needed to have fillings.

“My position remains that water fluoridation does have bene-

fits for the whole community as there is consistent and reliable evidence water fluoridation reduces tooth decay,” he said.

“Community water fluoridation remains one of the most cost-effective methods of delivering fluoride to all community members regardless of age, educational attainment, or income level.” Cr Eden said she understood that adding fluoride to “our water is a contentious issue, with residents having strong views on both sides of the argument”.

“We last asked about fluoride in the 2016 Our Cairns survey, which revealed the community was split on the issue.”

CONTINUED NEXT PAGE

An artist’s impression of the new western grandstand at Barlow Park. Picture: Supplied

Securing water supplies

ALP Senator lobbying for last $87.5m needed to fully fund project

l GORDONVALE

| Nick Dalton

QUEENSLAND Labor Sena-

tor Nita Green is confident she can wrangle the final $87.5 million needed to fully finance the Cairns water security project stage one at Gordonvale.

She told the launch of the $472m project on Tuesday “if there is an opportunity for the federal government to make a further contribution, I’m sure that we will do that”.

Ms Green said she would be calling on her colleagues in Canberra to match the $195m committed by the Queensland Government.

“Have you met me? I’m very good at campaigning,” she said.

“I’ll head down to Canberra and make that case. I can be incredibly persuasive.

“We are working through our processes that we need to, now that the state has made an additional contribution.

“I’ll be heading down to Canberra over the next couple of months and talking to people about how important this project is and ensuring that there is a balance between the three governments of the contribution that we are making”.

The project is jointly funded by the council and the Australian and Queensland governments.

The project will secure the region’s future water supply and includes a new water intake at the Mulgrave River, a new water treatment plant and water reservoirs at Gordonvale and supporting infrastructure to connect to the existing water network.

The project is expected to support more than 1600 jobs during construction and support the region’s population growth.

In December 2023, the council awarded the design and construction contract to John Holland Queensland after a rigorous 12-month procurement process.

Cairns Mayor Amy Eden said the project “had strong community and business support, as well as unanimous support across all levels of government”.

“We are thrilled to celebrate the start of construction today with our state and federal government partners and leaders from our local community,” she said.

“This is a vital project for the Cairns community and I am buoyed by the support across the board to get to this point.

“Cairns is a beautiful part of

the world and we understand why more people are moving here and visiting here, which is adding more pressure to the water system.

“We know that every drop of water counts, especially when every drop is underpinned by significant capital investment.”

Premier Steven Miles said water security “matters to the people of Cairns, so I am delivering a $195m investment in this critical project”.

“The local MPs here have lobbied hard for this project, so it’s great to see work officially underway,” he said.

“This project means the community can rest assured they will have good, stable water supply long into the future.”

Federal Cities Minister Jenny McAllister said the project would help future-proof the region, “not only supporting jobs during the construction, but ensuring families, businesses and farmers can access sustainable, consistent and reliable drinking water”.

Queensland Water Minister Glenn Butcher said it “isn’t just a water security boost – it is a cost-of-living boost, because our funding is helping (the) council keep rates and water bills as low as possible”.

Mulgrave MP Curtis Pitt said it was not “just an infrastructure project – it’s a cost-of-living project. This $195m is $195m the council doesn’t have to stump up on its own, which is

driving down rates and water bills thanks to the Queensland Government.”

Tourism and Sport Minister and Cairns MP Michael Healy said water security would future-proof Cairns.

“This announcement will secure the water needs for the future growth of our city and region,” he said.

“We know cost of living is a challenge. We’re doing everything we can to work with council to keep their rates as low as possible.”

Barron River MP, Craig Crawford said: “Water is life.

“We’ve always backed the importance of this project. Cairns residents and local industries need water security.”

Local Briefs

l OPEN DAY

PRECIOUS Plastic FNQ are hosting an open day today (August 30) to showcase their innovative plastic recycling and vocational training program, designed to help and support young adults with learning disabilities. The event highlights the intersection of environmental sustainability and social inclusion, offering a unique platform for collaboration and community engagement in Far North Queensland. It will be from 9am - 1pm at Shed 17, Traders Lane, 117-121 Anderson Street, Manunda.

l BEACH VOLLEYBALL

CAIRNS is hosting round 1 of the Queensland state tour of the volleyball competition to help SEQ athletes better handle the FNQ heat. The event is free to watch at the Esplanade beach volleyball courts tomorrow and Sunday.

l DOG ART

IN recognition of International Dog Day, Arte. Wine bar at Crystalbrook Bailey in Cairns, will be hosting a dog-themed paint and sip workshop with local artist Joanne Bingham. From 4pm today, Ms Bingham will invite guests to share their passion by exploring their creativity while accompanied by wine of their choice, in this special dog-themed workshop.

l SHORT’S IGA

IN a front page story in last week’s CLN about the Piccones selling their IGA supermarkets, a paragraph incorrectly referred to the new owners, Peries, also owning the Woree IGA. This is incorrect. Paul Short owns the IGA Woree in Toogood Rd at Woree and also IGA Southside at Charlotte Close, Woree. We apologise for the error.

fluoride being put back in Cairns’ drinking water supply

FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

“Without overwhelming support to add fluoride to our drinking water, (the) council determined to maintain the status quo.

Mr Cosgrove said adding fluoride into the Cairns water supply was “costly, inefficient and unethical”.

“This petition is for those that do not want fluoride added to the Cairns water supply or couldn’t be bothered completing the recent ‘Our Cairns’ survey and wish to express their concerns and share

“We have welcomed many new residents to Cairns over the past eight years which may have impacted community sentiment. I encourage anyone who hasn’t yet completed the Our Cairns survey to do so, so we can gauge the current views of all our residents.”

their voice,” he said.

“It is well established poor dental health is caused by various factors such as diet, dental hygiene, genetics, and a lack of affordable dental care.

“The Cochrane Organisation has reviewed a considerable amount of evidence for water fluoridation and determined that it only benefits developing teeth. That means for people growing up, children. It has no topical effect for adults despite what your local dentist may say.

IT'S TIME TO BRIDGE THE GAP

“Water fluoridation is also an unmetered ‘treatment’. Some people may drink larger amounts of water per day than others and will ingest a larger dose of fluoride than the recommended standards.

“After decades of whistleblowers trying to raise awareness, it is a relief that PFOS and PFOA are finally being discussed and acknowledged as both environmental hazards, and a health risk.

“This issue is highly divisive and causes great anxiety and conflict in our local community.”

“Fluoride is also found in tobacco, black tea, antidepressants, antibiotics and many industrial products.

TRANSFORM THE WAY YOU CONNECT, ENGAGE & LEAD A MULTI-GENERATIONAL TEAM. Learn what the generations are looking for as employees and customers, and how they can help increase your brand, attract customers and drive growt

THURSDAY - 5 SEPTEMBER

Michelle Pascoe

John Holland infrastructure executive general manager Rob Evans (left), Member for Mulgrave Curtis Pitt, Sport Minister Michael Healy, Premier Steven Miles, Member for Barron River Craig Crawford, Mayor Amy Eden, Senator Nita Green and Water Minister Glenn Butcher at the water project launch at Gordonvale. Picture: Nick Dalton

A true Macca’s dad and sons

l SMITHFIELD

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

A LOCAL father of four, inspiring mentor and restaurant manager Denis Suman is celebrating 25 years of working with McDonald’s Cairns and with Father’s Day on Sunday is hoping his children will follow his path through the golden arches.

Mr Suman, from Smithfield, is the manager of 11 McDonald’s restaurants and 1500 crew in the Cairns region, having started back in 1998 he made his way up through the ranks through

hard work and passion.

Now McDonald’s has become a family business with his partner and eldest son both working with the restaurant. He’s hoping all his sons experience the business and acquire the life skills his job has given him.

“I started in 1998 at the Smithfield Maccas when I was 15 or 16. By the time I was 20 I was running the restaurant, and I ran it for seven years,”

Mr Suman said.

“I kept going through the ranks. We opened the Cairns city restaurant by 2011, then I got promoted to area manager and was looking after three restaurants – Earlville,

Manoora and Cairns city – and the franchise kept growing in Cairns so I’m now the general manager of 11 restaurants.

“My son Brandon’s working in the kitchen and he’s learning with a lot of confidence the things I did when I was his age. It’s good to see a bit of cockiness about him, he probably thinks he’s better than me at that stage, but it’s a good thing, it’s a proud moment.

“I can see all my sons going through Maccas, it will provide them with life skills that they’ll carry with them for the rest of their lives, regardless of the career paths they decide to take.”

Council’s $1bn economic hit

l

| Nick Dalton

CAIRNS Regional Council estimates its economic influence on the Cairns region is nearly $1 billion a year.

According to its latest ‘State of Procurement Report’ the council fuelled the region’s economy to the tune of $907 million in the 2023/24 financial year, based on a $384m direct

spend, plus the ripple effect of $240m by businesses buying stock etc and $283m by the employees of those businesses spending money locally.

The report said the council contributed 4.3 per cent to the Cairns Gross Regional Product and supported nearly 3900 local jobs.

Nearly 90 per cent of the council’s total expenditure (88 per cent) of $384m was spent at Cairns businesses – a $46m in-

crease on the previous year.

According to the latest data, the Cairns economy has grown to $11.46 billion, marking a 5.06 per cent increase on the previous year.

Cr Matthew Tickner told the council meeting on Wednesday that the 88 per cent spend was “phenomenal”.

He said councillors fully appreciated the council’s role in the local economy.

Cr Tickner said 10 jobs were

supported for every $1 million spent and the 88 per cent figure was the average over the past nine years.

Mayor Amy Eden said the council played a vital role in growing the local economy.

“The report shows just how important it is for us to keep buying local,” she said.

“Through our local focus on spending, (the) council was the catalyst for almost $1bn investment across the region last

year. The ripple effect of (the) council’s expenditure with local businesses supports 3889 jobs.”

The local $110m capital works expenditure is estimated to have supported 1112 jobs through construction projects.

Key insights about the local economy include:

• Local employment has risen to 88,563 jobs, reflecting a 4.86 percent growth.

• Cairns’ consumer expenditure remains steady at $5.4bn

in the year to June 2024.

• The labour market remains challenging with 2.8 per cent unemployment in the Cairns Local Government Area as of March 2024.

• Of the council’s total expenditure for 2023/24, 88 per cent was local. There was no local option for 4 per cent, non-local suppliers were used for 5 per cent and 3 per cent is government expenditure.

Changed Traffic Conditions

Saturday, September 14, 2024

Saturday, September 25, 2021

of the Kennedy Highway (Kuranda Range) from Canopy Kuranda.

For more information call: 4226 6327 8am, will be uploaded into a vehicle. All emergency vehicles will be able to traverse the Range in either direction if required during theclosure.

For more information call: 4226 6327

The Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation advises that it has obtained a one-lane road closure of the Kennedy Highway (Kuranda Range) on Saturday, September 25, 2021.

Hospital Foundation advises it has obtained a one-lane closure of the Kennedy Highway (Kuranda Range) on Saturday, September 14, 2024.

Any cyclist who has not been able to reach the top of the Range by 8am will be uploaded into a vehicle. All emergency vehicles will be able to traverse the Range in either direction if required during the closure.

To enable cyclists in the QSuper Cardiac Challenge to safely traverse the range, the up-lane will be closed from 6am –8.45am on that date.

lane of the Kennedy Highway (Kuranda Range) from Canopy’s Edge, Smithfield to RainForestStation, Kuranda.

To enable cyclists in the QSuper Cardiac Challenge to safely traverse the range, the up-lane will be closed from 6am-8.45am on that date. As per the permit, the

As per the permit, the closure will affect the uphill lane of the Kennedy Highway (Kuranda Range) from Canopy's Edge, Smithfield to RainForestStation, Kuranda.

Any cyclist who has not been able to reach the top of the Range by 8am will be uploaded into a vehicle.

As per the permit, the closure will affect the uphill lane of the Kennedy Highway (Kuranda Range) from Canopy’s Edge, Smithfield to RainForestStation,Kuranda. Any cyclist who has not been able to reach the top of the Range by 8am, will be uploaded into a vehicle. All emergency vehicles will be able to traverse the Range in either direction if required during theclosure.

All emergency vehicles will be able to traverse the Range in either direction if required during the closure.

Any cyclist who has not been able to reach the top of the Range by 8am will be uploaded into a vehicle. All emergency vehicles will be able to traverse the Range in either direction if required, during the closure.

For more information call: 4226 6327 or visit www.cardiacchallenge.com.au

Denis Suman (centre) is a proud father of four – Harry Jani (left), Oliver Francis, Brandon and Hugo. Picture: Supplied

Who let the dogs out?

l LAKE PLACID

THE 2024 FNQ Dogs Day Out Festival is gearing up to be the most ‘fur-tastic’ event of the year.

This year’s celebration of man’s best friend promises to be an unforgettable experience for pets and their owners alike tomorrow (Saturday, August 31) from 9am-1.30pm at Lake Placid.

Event organiser Kane Brown said the free community event was packed with fun, entertainment, and everything pet-related.

“The festival features a vibrant line-up of stalls offering healthy snacks for furry companions, medicinal products, crafts, artworks, and a plethora of other pet-related items,” he said. “Attendees will have the chance to meet experts and receive the latest information and advice from event exhibitors.

“We are thrilled to bring the FNQ Dogs Day Out Festival back to the community. It’s a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our furry friends, support local animal charities, and enjoy a day full of fun activities for the whole family. We can’t wait to see everyone there”.

Highlights include education on responsible pet ownership, agility and training demonstrations, interactive activities, local animal welfare charities and a YAPS monster raffle.

New 150-villa seniors’ village starts taking shape at Gordonvale

$72m project advances

l GORDONVALE

| Nick Dalton

UNDERGROUND works have been completed on a $72 million state-of-the-art senior living community at Gordonvale.

Casa Mia Living will ultimately be a 150-villa complex in Draper Rd on what once was caneland.

The Straguszi family is behind the project, which includes a restaurant, bar, cafe, gym, pool, wellness centre, hairdresser, community garden, a man cave and a ladies shed.

The first stage is 18 villas near the front of the complex.

Renee Straguszi, representing the Straguszi family, said the family was “excited to announce the commencement of above ground development for Gordonvale’s most anticipated senior living community”.

“This milestone marks the initial phase in developing a $72m, state-of-the-art lifestyle village, designed to meet the needs and aspirations of North Queensland’s senior population,” she said.

“The development of Casa Mia Living is expected to provide significant economic benefits to the Cairns region, with over $1m already invested in underground infrastructure, including trunk sewer lines, stormwater systems, and essential util-

ity connections. The project will generate jobs during both the construction phase and ongoing operations, addressing the growing demand for high-quality senior living options in North Queensland and enhancing the quality of life for its residents while contributing positively to the local economy.”

Ms Straguszi said Casa Mia Living was redefining the concept of retirement living with its holistic community model, “offering an unparalleled lifestyle and a deep sense of belonging in

Council News Update

Plenty of fun for final Festival weekend

Ten days of fantastic Festival fun wraps up this Sunday with crowd-favourite Carnival on Collins.

The beautiful Botanic Gardens and Tanks Arts Centre precinct will come alive from 9am to 3pm on Fathers Day (1 September) with market stalls, entertainment and food galore.

Other events this final weekend include: the Sawmill Soiree (see below), Jazz Under the Stars at the Gardens, Wayfinder at CPAC, and a heap of music at Tanks and the Court House Gallery lawn

Carnival on Collins road closures

The following road closures will be in place between 5am and 6pm:

n Collins Ave, from McLean St to Mayers St

n McCormack St, from Collins Ave to Walsh St

n Goodwin St, from McCormack St to Macdonnell St

n Walsh St, from McCormack St to Macdonnell St

n Friend St, from Collins Ave to Walsh St. For the full program visit cairnsfest.com.au

Cheer on our paralympians

The big screen is back for the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.

Bring along a picnic blanket, snacks and your loudest cheers, and stay to enjoy all the Cairns Festival action!

Saturday 31 August: 9am to 6pm Sunday 1 September: 9am to 4pm Location: near the Reef Eye ferris wheel.

North Queensland”.

“The village will feature a central piazza, heated pool, gym, and café, alongside state-ofthe-art facilities including onsite medical care with a doctor, nurse, and respite services,” she said.

“Residents will also benefit from a bar, restaurant, hairdresser, nail salon, library, workshop, convenience store, and a community bus, setting a new benchmark in the region.”

The Straguszi family are behind the Lakes Resort and Cairns

One projects. “We are excited to mark this pivotal moment in the development of Casa Mia. This project extends beyond constructing homes,” she said.,

“It is about fostering a thriving community with exceptional amenities and support.

“Our commitment is to provide an outstanding living environment for our residents.”

Ms Straguszi said with underground services now complete, Casa Mia Living was set to advance to the overground construction phase.

She said the project would engage with the community through various events and presentations.

On Tuesday, September 3, Casa Mia Living will host a group presentation at Cazalys Cairns, providing an opportunity for interested parties to learn more about the development. The first residents are expected to move in by late 2025. For more information, visit casamialiving.com.au or contact Michelle Reimann at enquiries@ casamialiving.com.au

Underground works have finished at Casa Mia Living seniors’ village at Gordonvale. Inset: What the bar will look like. Pictures: Kelly Development

State election2024

Youth crime on agenda

Shane

Cuthbert running as independent for electorate of Cairns

l CAIRNS

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

FORMER council candidate

Shane Cuthbert is throwing his hat in the ring for the October state elections as an independent with a focus on housing and a more compassionate take on youth crime.

The lawyer and former youth offender said he was not giving up on making Cairns better.

After his unsuccessful run at local elections, he’s now decided to run as an independent candidate for Cairns at the October 26 state election to exercise change for the city from the grassroots.

In an exclusive interview with Cairns Local News, Mr Cuthbert announced his candidacy and his desire to change the rhetoric around youth crime as a state member for Cairns.

“People don’t want the cookie cutter, people want genuine,” he said.

“I think politicians traditionally have a bad rap, they’ve always been seen as untrustworthy.

I ran a council campaign where I was completely upfront about my own criminal history and that resonated with people.

“People are starting to see they would rather have somebody rough around the edges that is genuine and also someone that

also has the courage to stand up to the major parties.”

Mr Cuthbert said his focus was on youth crime from a reformative and educational perspective and a tough stand on housing.

“Youth crime is a space that I know very well,” he said.

“Both parties (LNP and ALP) are really coming out with this ‘tough on crime’ rhetoric that I don’t think is helping. I think we need to go the other way.

“We need youth centres. Thankfully, we have one opening, but that’s a member of the public, Perri (Conti) who’s put her own money into that. It shouldn’t be residents having to do that, these are government issues.

“We have more young people incarcerated in Queensland than any other state, and now we’re seeing crime out of control because we have a lot of little kids who were locked up without support, without rehabilitation and are now being released.

“With housing, we shouldn’t have closed the Quigley St homeless shelter, we should’ve instead expanded it and for homelessness we have to seriously open up the housing market.

“One of the big things that I’ll be doing is working with the Cairns council to have a priority development area on the south side which (the) council has asked state government for.”

Mr Cuthbert asked the community to put their trust in an independent candidate these elections.

“It’s not easy running as an independent but I want to stand up and say – ‘Hey, I’ll fight for

you’,” he said. “A vote for me is a vote for Cairns. If you vote for LNP or ALP that’s a vote that’s going to Brisbane and I think the people of Cairns have had enough of people in Brisbane making decisions about them.

Housing central for Greens

l CAIRNS

|

Isabella

Guzman Gonzalez

WITH the housing crisis at the centre of his campaign, first-time Greens candidate for Cairns and passionate community man Josh Holt is running for the state elections aiming to create change through cheaper mortgages and rental reform.

The 39-year-old from Edge Hill Josh Holt never expected to see himself as a political figure, but as a concerned resident who has been affected by the housing crisis himself. He decided it was time for less words and more action.

They want some real representation.

“I’m not here for the pay cheque, I’m someone who has lived and understands the struggles. I want a seat at the table to help the community.”

So, he decided to run for Cairns in the upcoming October 26 state elections.

Mr Holt said he had seen inequality in housing while working in the arts industry, Defence Force, education and hospitality. CONTINUED NEXT PAGE

Shane Cuthbert is running as an independent candidate in the state elections. Picture: Supplied

Greens candidate Josh Holt.

FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

“I’ve had to move about once a year for the last four years because of the rental market crisis, so this year as part of the Greens’ cost of living and the housing crisis are going to be central.”

Some of the key proposals from Mr Holt and the Greens are creating a Queensland public bank to cut mortgage interest rates, guarantee lease renewals for good tenants and rent freezes.

“The vacancy rates have been under one per cent for nearly every month in the last three years. In the electorate of Cairns, 60 per cent of households are renters, and for those people rent has increased 30-40 per cent over the last few years and I think as a society we can do better,” he said.

“Currently the big four banks are making about $30 billion of profit every year. A state-owned bank doesn’t need to have that higher margin, so we can offer interest rates for about 1.5 per cent less and there’s no reason why we couldn’t do that. Queensland used to have public banks before.

“The rental freezes would be managed by the Rental Tenancies Authority, and it would be set by the property, so we can track them through the property, not through the ownership of it.

“Wages are rising nowhere near as quickly as rents are rising, so we need time for wages to catch up to these cost of living rises.”

State election2024

Mulgrave MP retiring and backs Aaron Fa’aoso as his replacement

Pitt endorses TV actor

Under the Greens’ plan agents and property investors would also be required to offer a lease renewal at the end of all fixed term leases. Retiring MP Curtis Pitt

is

l MULGRAVE

| Nick Dalton

STATE Member for Mulgrave and Speaker of the House Curtis Pitt is quitting politics after 15 years and has backed television actor Aaron Fa’aoso as his replacement.

Mr Pitt will finish at the state election in October. Mr Fa’aoso has yet to be endorsed by the ALP.

Mr Pitt said the decision was not taken lightly.

“I’ve always said that the day I wake up and don’t feel I can give it 100 percent, then it’s time for me to do something else,” he said.

“When I think back, all of my kids have been born since I’ve been an MP. Having been a member of parliament for five terms, I know that I’ve missed so many important milestones and occasions.

“I want the chance to be there for my children during an important phase of their life. I also have parents who have failing health and, just like they’ve been there for me, I want to be there for them.

“For the first time in a long time, I don’t know exactly what’s next for me. But I know that I’ve given all I can to this job and the people I’ve been so honoured to represent in my local area.

“I’ve been fortunate to have been a minister of the Crown in many diverse portfolio areas, I’ve been Treasurer of Queensland,

acting Premier on multiple occasions, and the Speaker of Parliament.

“It has been the greatest privilege of my life. It’s now the time to give all I can for the people closest to me – my family and loved ones.”

Mr Fa’aoso said he understood the need to have strong representation in Mulgrave.

“Curtis and his dad have both demonstrated that over decades and showing that if you stand up and fight for Far North Queensland, we can get great results,” he said.

“The Pitt family have a proud history of standing up for what’s right and that’s something I’ve tried to do throughout my own life.

“I know that the fast-growing southern corridor of Cairns is a big part of Mulgrave and it’s important to ensure we get the necessary services and infrastructure to keep up with that growth.

“The electorate also includes a town like Gordonvale that has its own unique identity and needs.

“And as an Indigenous man I know firsthand the challenges and opportunities facing Yarrabah –the largest Aboriginal community in Australia.

“I’m putting myself forward for public office because I believe I can be a voice for the Far North and be a strong advocate to get our fair share.”

MIGHT JUST BE EAR WAX

The symptoms of ear wax are impaired hearing, dizziness, ear pain, a plugged or full sensation and ringing in the ear. You should never attempt to self-clean and always seek professional advice. We can help! We offer gentle and effective methods of wax removal.

• Current driver’s license a must

• Ability to provide amazing customer service

• Display a high level of attention to detail & time management

• Experience & ability to measure accurately

• Proficient in power tool operation

(left)

endorsing TV actor Aaron Fa’aoso as his replacement. Picture: Supplied

New

era for Port Hinchinbrook people

Marina’s $7m sewage fix up

l PORT HINCHINBROOK

| Nick Dalton

A $7 MILLION shortfall to construct a new sewage treatment plant at Port Hinchinbrook is to be provided by the Miles Labor government.

Member for Hinchinbrook

Nick Dametto said Premier Steven Miles visited Cardwell and Port Hinchinbrook last week to make the funding announcement.

He said the government agreed to:

• Immediately commit $7m to the Cassowary Coast Regional Council to meet further costs of the sewage treatment plant

• Economic Development Queensland (EDQ) to start negotiations to acquire necessary land, no longer considered of value in the development

• Arrange for dredging of Stoney Creek/One Mile Creek canal

• Sell what remains of Port Hinchinbrook for redevelopment.

Mr Dametto said it was the first time any government had

committed to fixing the longstanding issues at Port Hinchinbrook “which will deliver a fully normalised suburb of Cardwell”.

“Years of tireless lobbying have finally come to fruition. This announcement has set the pathway for Port Hinchinbrook to fully realise its potential and right the wrongs which this community has endured since Cyclone Yasi,” he said.

Mr Miles said he wanted to see Port Hinchinbrook back on track.

“This area has so much potential, not only for local residents and businesses but for tourism opportunities,” he said.

“Instead, locals have been left behind for too long. Only my

government will do what matters to fix Port Hinchinbrook and deliver the sewage treatment plant”.

A Cassowary Coast Regional Council spokesman thanked Mr Miles and said the council looked forward to receiving the funding from the government. He also thanked Mr Dametto for helping the council improve the situation for the Port Hinchinbrook community.

At last week’s council meeting, councillors endorsed negotiations to proceed with a preferred tenderer for emergency dredging of One Mile Creek with the hope that a federal government funding variation will be approved by the end of October 2024.

AIRBORNE GEOPHYSICAL SURVEY

IN QUEENSLAND

Geoscience Australia, in collaboration with the Geological Survey of Queensland, will be conducting an Airborne Electromagnetic (AEM) survey over a large area of north-east Queensland from June to November 2024.

The survey will be carried out by an aircraft fitted with specialist geophysical equipment flying along 20 kilometre spaced lines. The aircraft and the equipment that it tows will be flying at approximately 120 metres above the ground, and will avoid dwellings and built-up areas. Operations will be based at regional airports and no access to private property is required.

l INNISFAIL

| Nick Dalton

RADIANT Life College at Innisfail has been granted $2.8 million in Go for Gold sports funding.

The funds will be used to transform the school's oval and sporting infrastructure into a state-of-the-art facility, complete with a running track encircling a football field, change rooms and toilets, and a strength and conditioning room.

Radiant Life College was one of 17 schools to be selected out of over 700 applicants across

Queensland for the second round of Go for Gold funding. Principal Nathanael Edwards said it would help the school provide education and sporting opportunities for First Nations students.

“Located in a regional area, we can get overlooked in some respects, but this time our local member has supported us in this journey,” he said.

Mr Edwards said Member for Hill Shane Knuth “knows and supports the school community, and we thank him for his partnership in our desire to create, not just a learning space for our

students, but an opportunity for sporting activities that will bring the greater community together”.

“We know that the social impacts of this sporting facility upgrade will be longlasting and generational.”

Mr Edwards said engaging First Nations youngsters in sports and physical education had significant short and long-term benefits in education, teamwork and physical and mental wellbeing.

Mr Knuth said Radiant Life had "earned the faith of the Department of Education and ministers past and present”.

Beach House@Trinity

Cassowary Coast councillor Renee McLeod (left), Radiant Life College principal Nathanael Edwards, Member for Hill Shane Knuth, Pastor Anthony Edwards, and Cassowary Coast councillor Nicholas Pervan on the school oval, Picture: Supplied

MP Nick Dametto and Premier Steven Miles at Port Hinchinbrook.

Lettersto the editor

Freshwater fig tree axed by the council

There was little response to last week’s question about what needs to be done to help the city’s youth. However, readers were keen to acknowledge the Piccone brothers’ retirement. Here are some of your comments.

Migrants need to assimilate

A wonderful local family who’ve done so much for the FNQ community. John, Peter and family deserve all the goodness life has to offer.

While we’ll miss your faces at Piccones, we are so lucky to have had you all part of the business community for so long. You have all been so incredibly generous across the generations. A remarkable legacy indeed. Enjoy your retirement legends, you deserve it.

- Danae Jones, Facebook

The Piccone family are community heroes. Thank you for all that you have so generously given to organisations, clubs and schools over your lifetime.

- Robyn Boundy, Facebook

Thank you to the Piccone family for creating employment and generously giving so much to the community. You will be sadly missed. Big shoes to fill by the new owners.

- Patty Whitcher, Facebook

A chapter in Cairns’ history that the Piccone family should be so proud of. Congratulations.

- Rose Manzini, Facebook

Congratulations to John and Peter and the whole Piccone family. Great

Werner Schmidlin, Yorkeys Knob Waterslide should be a native snake

Tilapia tournament has been postponed

supporters of the community and have left a fantastic legacy.

- Michael McCarthy, Facebook

Congratulations Piccone family. Enjoy your well-deserved retirement.

A little unfortunate it is now owned by a non-local small conglomerate. Hopefully they will continue to support all the small local business products that you have always supported. It’s what we want to see on your shelves and stands you out from the rest. It’s certainly the reason I shop there.

- Amanda Jayne, Facebook

Lou will be looking down smiling, his boys can retire early and very comfortable.

- Diane Gardiner, Facebook

I hope the Piccone family enjoy their retirement. Their community spirit is the best that I have ever seen. Thank you to the generations of the Piccone family and staff for their generosity to our community.

- Thresea Jankowski, Facebook

Hopefully the new owners can keep up the impeccable standards and community support that these guys have provided over the years.

-Renee Louise, Facebook

Paul Matthews, Freshwater

Trish Kruckow, Babinda

Councillor Jeff Baines, Cassowary Coast Regional Council

The fig tree at Le Grande Park, Freshwater, has been chopped down by Cairns Regional Council. Picture: Paul Matthews

Cairns’ drinking water. Why or why not?

Local groups shed some light

l MOSSMAN

IN A couple of recent editions of the ‘Goss’ I’ve mentioned Light Up the Park.

This has now become a regular occurrence at George Davis Park in Mossman, after the initial successful trial run at the beginning of the year. The fun event allows friends and family to come together, as well as connect with local organisations in the area. One such group, at the most recent event, was the Douglas Grass + Roots Volunteer Network. I took the opportunity to catch up with them during the afternoon.

For a bit of history, a couple of years ago, Tanya Morris – based at the Port Douglas Neighbourhood Centre – was set the task to identify local organisations which involve and require volunteers and then help match them up.

Consequently, Tanya started work alongside the Douglas Shire Council, to launch the Douglas Grass + Roots Volunteer Network which has been an initiative of the council, Vol-

unteering Queensland and the Port Douglas Neighbourhood Centre.

The aim of this network is to help connect volunteer organisations, help in the initial recruitment and then provide further assistance in retaining and managing volunteers. Basically, it is all about getting the right people in the right job.

After much effort, the Douglas Grass + Roots Volunteer Network has established itself as a useful asset to the Douglas Shire community and now has a helpful website that assists with the connecting of local groups and societies, together with people willing to commit some of their time to help in some way.

Further details can be obtained from Tanya Morris by contacting the Neighbourhood Centre in Port Douglas.

I’m off to prove the onehanded theory, so for now it’s Gazza signing out.

Send your stories to gazza@cairnslocalnews. com.au

Shade provides relief from sun

l PORT DOUGLAS

AFTER finance was approved by the Douglas Shire Council back in December of 2023, the new shade structure over the Port Douglas Pétanque Piste finally went up a couple of weeks ago.

The 5m by 5m carport-like structure sits on a concrete slab which is suitably cyclone proofed and the roof overhangs the playing piste by two metres. This provides players shade when throwing their boules, which has been particularly useful with the more frequent appearance of the sun this month.

The piste was originally constructed by the Douglas Shire Council and opened by former mayor Julia Leu on August 29, 2019.

Since then, a signboard has been erected in partnership with U3A, plus benches and a table have been provided by the council.

Pétanque is a game for all ages and apparently is one of the only games that can be played with a drink in hand. BYO is recommended for a cheery post-play gathering.

For those keen, the piste is behind the Port Douglas Community Hall in Mowbray Street and players gather on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays at 3.45pm, Visitors are welcome and equipment is provided, although people are recommended to take a hat, chair and something to drink. Phone Pam Burden for more information on 0418 960 888.

- Brian

Therese Maloney from Mossman Support Services and Tanya Morris from Douglas Grass + Roots Volunteer Network. Pictures: Supplied

Port Douglas pétanque players enjoying some shade.

Spotlight on Palm Cove

Taking wine to next level

l PALM COVE

A DEDICATED wine cellar has opened at The Reef House Adults Retreat providing an intimate space for wine appreciation classes with newly appointed sommelier Kenny Hillier.

The Reef House director Malcolm Bean said Mr Hillier (right) was a raconteur who grew up in Australia’s premier wine districts and whose exten-

sive wine knowledge had been honed over many years in some of the top restaurants in Australia and London.

“He has worked at Michael Caine’s trendy Langan’s Brasserie in Mayfair and with Philippe Mouchel at Paul Bocuse in Melbourne before joining him again at Langton’s Restaurant and Wine Bar at Flinders Lane where there were 1600 wines on the list.

“In addition to developing an

extensive wine list, Kenny will host wine appreciation classes in the new cellar as part of The Reef House’s more than 28 complimentary Signature Inclusions for guests wanting an adults-only getaway focusing on rest, relaxation and rejuvenation.”

Mr Hillier said the classes gave guests an insight into the world of wine with three selected wines enjoyed in the intimate cellar space.

“Wine should be fun, after all it is a drink,” he said.

“My plan for The Reef House is to have every wine district in Australia represented along with a curated international selection.

“I want to offer the right wines at the right price to the right people. Our customers are not scared to drink good wine, they just need to be educated about what they will enjoy.”

The Reef House Adults Re-

treat has won TripAdvisor awards for No. 1 luxury hotel and No. 1 hotel in both the South Pacific and Australia 2024. Sister properties Adelaide Hills’ Mt Lofty House, was TripAdvisor’s No.1 luxury hotel in Australia and South Pacific 2022 and 2023, and Sequoia Lodge, the Australian Lodge 2023 winner of the HM Awards and winner of luxury hotel accommodation 2023 in the South Australian Tourism Awards.

New owners mark first anniversary

l PALM COVE

PALM Cove Greek

restaurant Elgrekos Taverna has celebrated its first birthday under the new ownership of James Hendry and Lisa Grant.

“A huge thank you to everyone who came and celebrated our 1st birthday,” the couple said.

“We hope you enjoyed your night just as much as we did.

“What a night it was. The atmosphere was great and

the restaurant was packed with well-wishers.”

It was by sheer luck the couple bought the Palm Cove business.

After Mr Hendry came up on business and fell in love with the northern beaches. He brought his wife Lisa up for a week's holiday at Trinity Beach and over a few discussions and some wines, they decided they would buy Elgrekos and take residency in FNQ as new business owners.

Mr Hendry has vast

experience in running restaurants over many years and Ms Grant has spent front of the house for most of her life.

“We know that the experience we offer will be one to remember, as customers indulge in our new enhanced menus and take in the ambience of Palm Cove,” she said.

“On arrival, you're met with a relaxed atmosphere where guests can enjoy authentic Greek cuisine and a range of traditional specialties.

“The menu at Elgrekos' Greek Taverna showcases a variety of Greek and Mediterranean dishes, providing flavoursome meals for guests to enjoy.

“Elgrekos also caters for functions from wedding receptions to birthdays and corporate events so if you have an event coming up, ensure you have the Elgrekos experience where the unique open-planned taverna can create a relaxed environment for your special day.”

OOPAH

Tourism Palm Cove would like to express their gratitude to everyone who joined us for the networking evening on the 14th of August. The positive feedback we received was truly heartwarming, and I would like to extend a special thank you to the sponsors for their invaluable support

James Hendry and Lisa Grant of Elgrekos (left) with Mark and Chris Byron of O’Donnells Palm Cove. Picture: Supplied

TimeOut

Festival sets city humming

Annual event culminates in ‘Carnival on Collins’

l CAIRNS REGION

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

WITH perfect weather and enthusiastic crowds, the 62nd Cairns Festival opened with a bang and the fun and celebrations are not over yet with many events to come, including the iconic Carnival on Collins on Sunday.

After a cancelled grand parade last year, this year’s parade came prepared to pull out all the stops and it certainly did, attracting a crowd of 25,000 people lining the streets to watch 60-plus floats from community groups, businesses, sporting clubs and schools.

Cairns Mayor Amy Eden said the parade had been blessed with great weather giving a perfect start to the festival.

“People were loving the atmosphere down on the Cairns Esplanade. The vibes were electric, and it was heartwarming to see families, friends and

visitors all coming together to enjoy the festivities,” she said.

“The energy throughout the weekend truly captured the spirit of our vibrant community.”

The launch of the ‘(re)connection: Culture, Country and People’ exhibition marked the long-awaited opening of the Mulgrave Gallery, as festival goers got their first peek inside the newlyrefurbished building.

The occasion was celebrated with a night of cultural performances, featuring Australian music great Christine Anu, Normey Jay and the Naygayiw Gigi Dancers.

“This was a very special night for Cairns Festival, with the Mulgrave Gallery serving as the centrepiece of the event’s creative venues across the city, all brought to life with live music, theatre performances, art exhibitions, installations, light shows and an incredible festive vibe,” Cr Eden said.

There’s still plenty more to come as

Cairns Festival continues through to Father’s Day.

Program highlights include ‘Adrift’, a theatre performance by Counterpilot that explores themes of isolation and our relationship with nature currently running at the CPAC until September 1.

In dance, ‘Seed of Destiny’ at Bulmba-ja will run until tomorrow, showcasing contemporary dance and storytelling, delving into themes of identity and belonging.

Additionally, the Tanks Arts Centre will host the ‘Jebediah and Magic Dirt’ concert tonight.There will also be a free ‘World Beatz’ performance, celebrating global rhythms today.

The Court House series concludes tomorrow with ‘Hometown Harmonies’ at 6pm, showcasing local talent. Carnival on Collins on September 1 takes place from 9am at the Tanks Arts Centre and along Collins Avenue. For full program details go to www.cairnsfest.com.au

Delicious shire art deco high tea

l INNISFAIL

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

THE fashion and the sumptuous treats will be the protagonist at the Tropical Art Deco Festival’s premier event the 'High Tea' next week. Members of the Innisfail and District Historical Society and special guests are finalising details for the high tea, having picked the treats that will be on display at the Shire Hall on Rankin St for the festival’s glamorous and delicious event on Sunday, September 8.

“The selection of food on offer is fabulous,” said society president Trish Ernst.

“It was difficult to choose what will be on the menu and, for now, we’re keeping it to ourselves,” she said.

The high tea has returned to the magnificent art deco-era Shire Hall, extending the festival event program to eight days, culminating in the very popular vintage market on Sunday, September 15.

The high tea will feature sumptuous sweet and savoury treats, with a nod to the elegance of the era in presentation and décor. Prizes will

be on offer for those who dress to impress in their art deco fashions.

The entertainment on offer will feature the Innisfail Community Band, Danceworks Academy, Temple Rain Belly Dancers and a fashion parade presented by Larsens and Calico Tropic.

New to the festival program in the following week are the craft workshops, and a paint and sip workshop featuring the town’s iconic Bluebird Café.

Bookings are now on sale for all ticketed events from www.innisfailhistory.com.au/about-6

Cultural dance was a big feature of this year’s grand parade. Picture: Supplied

High Tea guests in their fashions at the 2021 Tropical Art Deco Festival. Picture: Supplied

Kids exploring artistic skills

Cairns Art Gallery giving children chance to discover their Picasso from within

l CAIRNS CBD

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

CAIRNS’ children will get to discover their Picasso from within these school holidays with the Cairns Art Gallery school holiday classes where kids ages four to 14 will play with air-dry clay, pastel portraits, spider dioramas and more.

Fun, creativity and art will go hand in hand these school holidays as the Cairns Art Gallery has launched their popular school holiday kids’ classes where experienced local artists will help children explore the artist within with workshops catered especially for them.

The classes begin from September 17 and will go until September 26.

Cairns Art Gallery manager Kelly Jaunzems said this was an opportunity for kids to have fun and learn.

“Art is very important for children, it’s been scientifically proven that it’s, not only good for creativity, but art also helps critical thinking,” she said.

“These workshops are pretty popular and tend to sell out fast, especially right at the beginning and end of the school holidays, so we do recommend for parents to book as soon as possible.

“For these September holiday workshops we really focused on the exhibitions that we have on, such as works from Margaret Olley, so we have some still life classes based on her still life paintings.

“We also got this incredible exhibition of tiny spiders from the Museum of Contemporary Art in Sydney, so we have some spider dioramas and articulated spider puppets. We really try to focus on the exhibitions we’re showing.”

Seasoned gallery artists Keelie Nicholls, Jamie Lee Simpson and Amanda Rowen will be running the workshops which include oil pastel landscapes, ink still-life drawings, spider dioramas, chalk pastel portraits, air-dry clay, spider puppets and chalk pastel fairytale landscapes.

“These workshops are for small groups because we’d like for all of the kids to have one-on-one time with the teachers,” Ms Jaunzens said.

“For our classes ages 9-14 the maximum number of students is 12 and for our younger students a maximum of 10.

“The classes range from $18 to $25.

“All kids have creativity but sometimes at these classes it does surprise me the quality of the work that they produce.

“I would encourage people to sign up for the classes. Art is not just fun, but an important tool to teach the kids to observe the world around them and develop critical thinking which then branches to other areas like math and science. Art has lots of benefits.”

To book the kids holiday classes, visit https://bit.ly/3XjeL4M

Cairns Art Gallery artist Keelie Nicholls teaching a four- to nine-year-old observational drawing class. Picture: Supplied

TimeOut

Learn how to play a chordophone

Stop harping on and do it

l CAIRNS NORTH

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

EXPLORE the fascinating world of the harp, its sound and endless possibilities with a whole day of workshops by FNQ Harp Connection this Saturday.

Taught by two prolific FNQ harpists, Natalia Mann from Redlynch and Loni Fitzpatrick from Mossman, the ‘Creative Music Day’ at Cairns State High School’s Crosswell Hall will feature three workshops which will explore the harp, its endless creative possibilities and resonance from 9.30am to 3pm.

The workshops are open to everyone, including people with no musical training, starting at 9.30am with Ms Fitzpatrick’s ‘Crazy Harp Sounds’ for kids an introduction to extended techniques and a presentation of live looping on a harp, followed by Ms Mann’s ‘Resonance music’ at 11.30am an experimental work-

shop on discovering music by colour and feel and closing with another iteration of ‘Crazy Harp Sounds’ open for all ages.

“I’ve been playing the harp for more than 40 years and Loni for over 10 years,” Ms Mann said.

“We’re both contemporary harpists and we’re putting together a creative music day, which is a day where you think differently about music and it’s all about having fun and getting inspired.

“Loni is a master of the loop pedal on harp so she layers music and it sounds fantastic. Loop pedalling is a common skill nowadays, a lot of popular music is made with it, so Loni uses it to make beautiful, minimalist sound escapes.

“It’ll be fascinating to see how a piece can be broken down into these little parts. She’ll do a demonstration which will be fantastic to listen to.

“I’ll be doing a workshop on ‘resonance music’ which is the

art of tuning into the frequencies of things and being able to play those frequencies as music, it’s based on the question – ‘If all the world is vibration, then all the world has a song’.”

Ms Mann said any age and any skill level would take away something from these workshops.

“These are introductory workshops, so it’ll be hands on for everyone and there’ll be some demonstrations, so even if someone isn’t a musician, they should still find them very interesting and learn something,” she said.

“The harp is a special instrument, very unique, it’s a fun instrument to learn and you can do so much with it.

“You’ll hear beautiful music and have your mind blown. I can assure that they’ll see something they haven’t seen before.”

Workshops cost $55 for one, $85 for two or $100 for all of them. To book, visit www.fnqharpconnection.org

Mossman harpist Loni Fitzpatrick will be teaching a ‘Crazy Harp Sounds’ workshop. Picture: Supplied

Indigenous culture in focus

Free ‘Big Talk One Fire’ event sure to inspire the community and participants

l CAIRNS CBD

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

MUNRO Martin Parklands will host the biggest iteration of UMI Arts’ free and family-friendly First Nations event – ‘Big Talk One Fire’ –with live music, dance, workshops and arts and crafts on Saturday, September 7.

The 17th anniversary of the beloved Big Talk One Fire is almost a reality with only one week to go, and it promises to be the biggest and most inviting it’s ever been.

With a packed program going from 3pm to 9pm on Munro Martin Parklands, Big Talk One Fire will be a non-stop celebration of First Nations storytelling and culture comprising an arts and crafts market, activities for kids, food stalls, a symposium, workshops and storytelling alongside an exciting program of stage entertainment crisscrossing musical and dance genres culminating in a headline performance by Australian Idol winner Royston Noell.

Other performers from the rich entertainment lineup are the Gimuy Yidinji Dancers, the KapayKuyan Aboriginal Dance Group, the Boigu Island Dance Group, Yimbala Dancers, the Barefoot Ballerinas, Constellation of Our Forefathers (Babaya Zugubal), Herbert Yunkaporta, returning musician Broden Tyrell and Djun Djun Jarra.

According to UMI Arts’ artistic director Lisa Michl Ko-manggén,

Big Talk One Fire is one of the organisation’s much-loved events. It also plays an integral role in achieving the organisation’s mission to preserve, strengthen, maintain and celebrate all aspects of Indigenous arts and culture.

“For the past 17 years, Big Talk has brought people together for a joyful afternoon in beautiful surroundings,” Ms Michl Ko-manggén said.

“UMI Arts is always immensely proud to present this all-inclusive event that promotes the best of North Queensland Indigenous culture to a large and varied audience within the gorgeous inner-city venue, Munro Martin Parklands.

“Always a highlight of Big Talk One Fire is our concert featuring local Indigenous bands, traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural dance and pop-up visual art and markets,” she said.

“We hope everyone from across the city and region will join us in learning about and celebrating the strength and vibrancy of this region and First Nations people, arts and culture.”

Entry to Big Talk One Fire is free but some workshops will have a small fee. Attendees are encouraged to book their free ticket from Eventbrite to keep track of attendance and for optional donations.

For more information and to book your free ticket, visit https://bit.ly/3T34CXm

Local musician Broden Tyrell is once again part of the entertainment lineup for Big Talk One Fire. Picture: Supplied

WHAT’S

GEM FESTIVAL @ INNISFAIL SHOWGROUNDS

l SAT AUG 31ST, 8:00AM-3:00PM

The Gem Festival has displays and sales of gemstones, jewellery, crystals, rocks and minerals, rough gems, lapidary equipment and supplies.

You will be able to see live demonstrations of faceting and try your hand at fossicking. We work hard to help bring awareness, sharing our knowledge and love of gems with others.

Kids activities, food and drinks and raffle tickets available on site as well.

GREAT NORTHERN BULLRIDING @ INNISFAIL

l SAT AUG 31ST, 5:00PM

Let’s go bullriding, Innisfail! The Great Northern Bullriding Series visits the Innisfail Pony Club.

• Loads of giveaways and family fun

• Wide variety of food, licensed bar

• GNBS Mechandise available on the night

• Official afterparty onsite with country DJ

Tickets available online from humanitix.com.

Come along and support your local pony club, funds raised help the club and go towards their goal of an indoor arena.

DINNER SHOW @ O’DONNELL’S PALM COVE

l FRI AUG 30TH, 8:00PM

Experience the amazing sounds of Neil Diamond and Roy Orbison while enjoying the amazing food and glorious beach front views at O’Donnell’s on the Esplanade, Palm Cove.

Make a resvervation online at odonnellspalmcove.com.au or call for more information on 07 4055 3009.

SPRING FAIR @ ST MARGARETS CHURCH

l SAT AUG 31ST, 8:00AM-NOON

Visit the St. Margaret’s Anglican Church Spring Fair.

There will be a cake stall, plants for sale, garage sale, devonshire tea, sausage sizzle and a raffle with great prizes - first prize will be a full day Food and Wine tour of the Tablelands for two adults. Also on offer is a range of activities for the kids, and the thrift shop will be open.

230 Aumuller st, West Cairns

PRESENTATION @ CAIRNS RAILWAY HALLS

l FRI SEP 6TH, 10:00AM

Peter Widt, Volunteer in Policing, Far North Region – Queensland Police Service will be continuing his presentation on ‘Personal Safety’ and ‘Home Security’ for the self-funded and part pensioner members at the Cairns Branch of the Australian Independent Retirees meeting, to be held at the Cairns Railway Halls, 40-42 Macnamara Street.

Visitors are welcomed and morning tea is supplied.

Further enquiries phone 4039 2397.

SPIDERS OF PARADISE @ CAIRNS ART GALLERY

l SAT AUG 31ST, 10:00AM-5:00PM

Maria Fernanda Cardoso’s subject is the tiny Australian Maratus spider – measuring less than 5mm in size – and its unique, brightly-coloured abdomen, which plays an important role in its elaborate mating rituals.

“The Maratus spiders of Australia are the most colourful, flamboyant, sexy, and charming spiders on the planet. To me, their use of colour, gesture, sound and movement makes them sophisticated visual and performing artists. They are also the smallest performers I know of,” said Cardoso. Exhibition runs from August 31st - November 24th.

GIG Guide

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

FRIDAY 30TH

Boardwalk Social Zdenek, 4:30pm

Cairns Cruising Yacht Squadron Barbary Coasters, 4:00pm

Calypso Club DJ Saf, 4:00pm

Dunwoody’s Lunar Solarmoon, 4:00pm

Ellis Beach Bar & Grill Bon Jovi Forever, 5:00pm

Salt House Pauly P, 5:00pm

Barron River Hotel Steve Williams, 6:00pm

O’Donnels Neil Diamond & Roy Orbison Tribute - Rowly Duo, 6:00pm

Pachamama DJ Setel, 6:00pm

The Benson Drew Boy, 6:00pm

Trinity Beach Sports Club Miss Wendy & Ben, 6:00pm

Cazalys Hot Ice, 6:30pm Courthouse Lawns Bad Boys of Uke, 6:30pm

Brothers Leagues Club Cairns Sole2Soul, 7:00pm

TANKS Jebediah + Magic Dirt, 7:00pm

The Pier Bar Reggaeton, 7:30pm

Whiskey & Wine DJ Luke, 7:30pm

Rattle’N’Hum Palm Cove Cam Kettle, 8:00pm

Salt House DJ Moose, 8:00pm

Rattle’N’Hum Cairns Flavour, 8:30pm

BAR36 George Michael & Whitney Houston Tribute - Sarah C + George Gould, 9:00pm

The Pier Bar DJ Gerry, 9:00pm

P.J.O’Brien’s Cairns Sanchez Brothers, 9:30pm

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

SATURDAY 31ST

Ellis Beach Bar & Grill Dave Cooke, 1:00pm

Tasman Holiday Park INFINITY DUO, 1:00pm

NOA Christina Ukulele, 3:00pm

Straight on the Beach Waiting for Alice, 3:00pm

The Beach House Janna Mercedes, 3:00pm

Yorkeys Knob Boating Club Barbary Coasters, 3:00pm

Boardwalk Social Amber Farnan, 4:30pm

Ellis Beach Bar & Grill Saltwater Blues Revue, 5:00pm

Salt House Stan Stone, 5:00pm

Cairns Botanical Gardens Captain Jazz & the Bandicoots, 5:20pm

Paper Crane Mike Rivett + DJ Lukeh, 5:30pm

The Benson Stevie Roberts, 6:00pm

Trinity Beach Sports Club Whiskey Boat, 6:00pm Cazalys Carrizma, 6:15pm

Brothers Leagues Club Cairns Bad Boys of Uke, 6:30pm

The Pier Bar DJ Moose, 7:30pm

Whiskey & Wine DJ Matt Caseli, 7:30pm

Rattle’N’Hum Palm Cove Bourban Gorillas, 8:00pm Red Beret POUNDCAKE!, 8:00pm

Salt House DJ Rod Garcia, 8:00pm

The Pier Bar Kaweyova, 8:00pm

Rattle’N’Hum Cairns DNA, 8:30pm

Rocco DJ Andy, 8:30pm

BAR36 George Michael & Whitney Houston Tribute - Sarah C + George Gould, 9:00pm

P.J.O’Brien’s Cairns Sanchez Brothers, 9:30pm

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

SUNDAY 1ST

Carnival on Collins Bad Boys of Uke, 9:00am

Carnival on Collins Captain Jazz & the Bandicoots, 9:00am

Brothers Leagues Club Innisfail Neil Diamond & Roy Orbison

Tribute - Rowly Duo, 12:00pm

Cazalys Terry Doyle, 12:00pm

Dunwoody’s Hannah May, 2:00pm

Rattle’N’Hum Palm Cove Andrea & Louie, 3:00pm

Yorkeys Knob Boating Club Bad Boys of Uke, 3:00pm

O’Sheas Barbary Coasters, 4:00pm

The Pier Bar DJ Zaccu, 4:30pm

Salt House Sunset Raga, 5:00pm

The Pier Bar Flavour, 5:00pm

BAR36 Sunbird, 7:30pm

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

Take a minute... Puzzles for you

CROSSWORD

You will enjoy the interaction with youngsters and take great pride in the projects you’ve completed. Your personal life is going through a state of confusion. Organize your day well if you wish to accomplish all you set out to do. You will attract members of the opposite sex readily.

Be aware that a female you work with may be trying to hold you back. Be prepared to make compensations and adjustments. Family outings should include visiting friends or relatives. Some relatives will be extremely perplexing.

Trips should be your choice. You may have been too nice to a friend who just wanted to take advantage of you. Don’t allow personal problems to conflict with professional

Emotionally you won’t see things accurately. Don’t let any money slip through your fingers this week. You are ahead of your time, and trying to stay in one spot could be asking too much. Your lover may not under stand your needs so you must figure out a way to communicate them.

Believe in yourself and so will those who count. Your dedication and fortitude when dealing with humanitarian groups will enhance your reputation. You will feel tired and rundown if you have allowed yourself to get into a financial mess. Minor health problems may lower your vitality.

Your doubt could lead to insecurity. Your partner may be somewhat irritable this week. You are best to be discreet. Try to include the one you love in your plans this week.

Purchases will be well worth it and they will last a long time. Don’t give your heart too readily. Your main concern will be to spend as little as possible of your own cash in the process. You might be overly emotional concerning situations at work.

Do your work at home, if you can. Someone may be trying to make you look bad. You can look around for the right place and enlist some of your friends to help you move. You can make money if you put your savings into conservative investments. Someone you care about may not be too well.

25. at the beginning (9)

26. a group that manages a theatre (5)

27. a tool for securing lights or scenery (1-5)

28. to rely on something or someone for support or assistance (6,2)

DOWN

1. a wild horse native to Australia (6)

2. a lighting color used to create a clean and neutral look on stage (4,5)

3. a structure that alters the shape or size of the stage opening to fit a specific scene (5,10)

4. letters of the alphabet h (7)

Trust your instincts with business ventures. Focus on improving your environment and mindset. Consider courses to better understand yourself. While you can modify your living space, not everyone may appreciate the changes.

to travel or do things in conjunction with groups. Listen, but don’t make any rash decisions.

ACROSS

You’re in the mood for love. Proceed with caution if operating equipment or vehicles. Your interest in religion and philosophy may lead you to specific destinations. You will meet a person who may turn out to be more than just a friend.

of high, thin cloud (6)

15. a repeat of a scene or song in a performance (7)

18. a person who manages costumes on stage (7) 20. to fly an aircraft (6) 22. a horizontal stripe on a shield (5) 24. props or scenery on the stage floor (9)

6. something that cannot be criticized or is beyond reproach (15)

7. to improvise lines or actions during a performance (2-3)

8. a person who practices magic or witchcraft (8)

9. a small wheel used on the bottom of stage props or scenery to facilitate movement (6)

16. to mix or incorporate something into another thing (9)

17. providing moral or intellectual instruction (8)

19. to entertain or amuse someone with stories or food (6)

20. a person who assists a priest or religious leader in a service or ceremony (7)

21. a country in northern Europe known for its Scandinavian culture and landscapes (6)

23. to accidentally cause a liquid or substance to

out or scatter (5)

Unique rainforest property

l CAPE TRIBULATION

A STUNNING awardwinning home, which looks like Starship Enterprise has landed in the middle of the Daintree rainforest, is back on the market.

Despite Alkira Resort House’s spaceship features, its design is based on a stamp.

The original owner – an avid stamp collector and property developer – inspired many of the property’s most distinguishing features.

The unusual swimming pool shape and surrounding roofline is based on the silhouette of the head on the ‘One Pound Jimmy’ postage stamp issued in Australia in the 1950s.

The stamp was chosen to acknowledge the Aboriginal heritage of the region and to acknowledge the owners’ appreciation for the stamp as a collector.

The artful indentations on Alkira’s concrete facade

reflect the perforation lines between postage stamps, as do the property’s porthole windows that cast beams of light deep inside.

Rich in concept as it is in unique aesthetics, Alkira wholeheartedly lives up to its name which in Aboriginal means ‘bright and sunny’.

Alkira is set in almost 30 ha with 600 metres of whitesand beach.

It exemplifies off-grid luxury and is a model for carbon-neutral, sustainable living. The residence was conceived by architect Charles Wright where the boundaries between the interiors and outdoors dissolve across its 1059sqm of living spaces. Fully furnished and equipped to accommodate 12 overnight guests, the six cantilevered wings are suspended over an engineered lake ecosystem and then unified by a showpiece swimming pool. The interiors with easycare polished concrete floors

throughout are complemented by cascading waterfalls and a landscaped courtyard.

Agent Lynn Malone of Queensland Sotheby’s International Realty said it was “a remarkable testament to sustainability and futuristic design”.

“Alkira represents a timeless and one-of-its-kind off-grid resort-style residence built to last,” she said.

Owner David Brandi, on his website, has confirmed the sale of the property.

“We would have liked to keep it, but circumstances require that we let it go to new owners. I hope it goes to someone who appreciates the property for the beautiful place that it is,” he said.

“The Alkira Resort House isn’t just real estate to me, it’s a place of history, and an untold narrative waiting to unfold. It bewildered me that something like this could exist in the middle of a World Heritage listed rainforest.”

Rare Daintree house and property Alkira is popular for high-end corporate get-togethers.

Call out to volunteers to help train young drivers

l DRIVER TRAINING

| Nick Dalton

PCYC Queensland’s awardwinning learning driver program improves road safety and increases opportunities for young people every week of the year.

During Queensland Road Safety Week it is calling out for more volunteers in its newest locations.

Braking the Cycle is now at Mossman thanks to $475,927 funding from the Department of Transport and Main Roads

(TMR). PCYC Queensland currently delivers Braking the Cycle at 54 locations. Additional funding from TMR’s Leaner Driver Mentor Program grant funding is expected to help more than 800 young people obtain their licence in the next 12 months. PCYC Queensland is putting the call out for volunteer mentor drivers in these communities.

PCYC Queensland chief executive Phil Schultz said extended funding for Braking the Cycle was incredibly positive for young Queenslanders who

faced difficulties in completing their 100 hours of supervised driving.

“Additional funding will help hundreds of young people to obtain their licence safely,” he said.

“A driving licence can make a huge difference to young people in rural areas where the ability to travel to work and study can increase employment and education opportunities as well as improving road safety outcomes. It also promotes positive interactions between participants and mentors who foster

safe driving behaviours.

“Braking the Cycle has delivered 313,603 hours of supervised driving and assisted 5,504 participants to achieve their licence since the program’s inception in 2012.”

Braking the Cycle program manager Seevali Ratnakara said it was a rewarding way to make a real impact for local young people.

“We see our mentor drivers create amazing relationships with their learner drivers,” she said.

“Volunteering as a mentor

driver is not only easy and enjoyable but incredibly fulfilling– it could be for just a few hours a week and you are helping to make your local community roads safer.”

Police Minister Mark Ryan said the scheme was another worthy example of how PCYC supported young people at a key moment in their lives.

“In many ways a driver’s licence is a vital ticket to adulthood and leading a satisfying and rewarding life,” he said.

“It’s significant also that PCYC has recognised that for

some young people it can be challenging to have someone supervise them for the required 100 hours.

“Braking the Cycle ensures that fewer young people get left behind when it comes to getting their licence.

“I commend PCYC for the many ways they support young Queenslanders and in the case of the Braking the Cycle program, the effort PCYC dedicates to ensuring the next generation of drivers are given the right foundation to become a safe and responsible road user.”

Nehemiah Harris is PCYC Yarrabah’s first Braking the Cycle participant and graduate leader. PCYC Mossman has now joined the program and needs volunteers to help. Pictures: PCYC

Carmaker’s infectious mantra returns to grab attention and market vehicles

Mazda is ‘zoom zoom’ again

l MARKETING

| Nick Dalton

ONE of the most celebrated automotive taglines ever created is about to make a comeback for 2024, as Mazda Australia releases a new spin on its iconic ‘zoom-zoom’ brand mantra.

Mazda Australia’s national brand manager Ashlin Moore said headlining the roll-out was a new brand film that captured the essence of the original advert of 2000, and “re-establishes zoom-zoom for the contemporary era, evoking the universal ‘joy of motion’ that we’ve all shared with cars”.

“Reviving the signature ‘zoom-zoom’ whisper, the 30 second film references the simple happiness delivered by the emotion of motion, the excitement of youthful independence and the purity of family connection,” she said.

“A wider interactive campaign that introduces immersive out-ofhome, at home and social activations will also encourage Australians to actively experience zoom-zoom in their own way as part of the launch.”

Ms Moore said the mantra was first established by the Mazda Corporation globally in 2004. It communicated the ‘emotion of motion’ first experienced as a child, and instantly captured the hearts of Australians at a pivotal time for the Mazda brand locally.

“It underlined the driver-focused DNA that was a core characteristic common to the all-new and game-changing models Mazda was introducing in the era, from the Mazda6, Mazda3 and Mazda2 as well as instant icons such as the RX-8 and MX-5 (NB),” she said.

“These models, and the overarching philosophy, contributed to a significant rise in sales for the brand to ultimately take it to number two position in the market – a spot Mazda Australia has retained for at least a decade.

“Now, zoom-zoom aligns with the brand’s aim to enrich life in motion, and is a call to participate and to take back the pure emotion of driving.

“This philosophy is central to Mazda Australia’s 2024 model range, with Mazda Australia offering one of the broadest, most diverse lineups of any automotive brand locally, ranging from eight SUVs that span the small, medium and large segments, through to sedans, wagons, hatchbacks, utes, sports cars, small cars and hybrids. In total, 13 different Mazda models will be available as of this year, and, regardless of the model chosen, every Mazda emphatically delivers a zoom-zoom driving and ownership experience.”

Marketing director Alastair Doak said “we’re reinstating the essence of our brand”.

He said it made perfect sense to celebrate the joy of driving.

‘Zoom-zoom’ is back on TV, on social media, billboards and at Mazda dealerships. Picture: Mazda Australia

Cairns Local

to claims or liabilities to the publisher, directors, employees and agents, and without limiting the generality that nothing is in breach of the Trade Practices Act 1974 or the Copyright Act 1968, the Fair Trading Act 1987 or the Consumer Protection, Defamation and Sale of Goods Legislation of the States and Territories or infringes the right of any person.

Advertising Conditions

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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.

If you would prefer us not to do so, please write to us at: Cairns Local News, Suite F03, The Conservatory, 12-14 Lake St, Cairns, Qld 4870

Access to your personal information can be obtained by calling (07) 4031 7678.

HOW DO I CANCEL AN ADVERTISEMENT?

PUBLIC NOTICES

AL-ANON FAMILY GROUPS

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

Al-Anon can help you.

Meetings held weekly at:

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

• Kuranda: Mondays, 11am to 12 noon

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

WANTING TO BUY

Friday August 30th

WANTED TO BUY

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

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

Classifieds Deadlines 4pm Wednesday every week of publication

HAVE you got something to sell? Call Amelie at Cairns Local News on 4031 7678 or email admin@cairnslocalnews.com.au

Classie deadline is 4pm every Wednesday.

Vinyl records - paying $$$ for albums any genre and size. Turn your old records into cash today! Phone 0474195679 Music Collector - I come to you

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

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

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

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

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

Saturday August 31st

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

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

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

Mareeba Markets: Centenary Park, 07:00-12:30

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

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

Spring Fair: St. Margaret’s Anglican Church, 08:00-12:00

Sunday September 1st

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

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

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

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

Port Douglas Markets: Wharf St, 08:00-13:00 Rusty’s Markets: Grafton St, Cairns, 05:00-15:00

Third Port Douglas Gran Fondo gears up for cyclists

Sport Race like no other

l CYCLING

| Peter Jackson

BRACE yourself cycling fans as the Cook Highway between Port Douglas and Palm Cove becomes an ocean side conga line of Lycra and flashing pedals.

The 2024 Port Douglas Gran Fondo Festival ramps up for its now third year successful year between September 6 and 8.

“Keeping Port Douglas top of mind is important,’’ said Connect Sport managing director Bade Stapleton.

“This year we invested $200,000 in marketing for the event with the view of increasing community involvement,” he said.

“It is all about encouraging locals and visitors to get out there.

“We regard the Gran Fondo as just another excuse to visit Port Douglas.

“Last year the Gran Fondo brought around $1.6 million to the Douglas region which is exciting.”

Ambassador Mark Beretta said the Port Douglas Gran Fondo Festival was “one of the most incredible cycling experiences I have ever had”.

“The 2023 event was spectacular and everyone from across Australia, and around the world, had a fantastic time, not just on the ride, but with the whole Tropical North Queensland experience,” he said.

“It’s such a unique opportunity to enjoy one of the world’s most beautiful rides, in gorgeous sunshine at a beautiful time of the year.

“With only 2000 spots available, I’d highly recommend you enter today so you don’t miss out.

“This is one of the most awesome events I’ve ever been involved with, and I’m proud to be

telling everyone about.”

Although not a race, there is certainly something challenging for every brand of two wheeled enthusiast.

The event offers different options to suit every rider, from the most challenging 136km Gran Fondo course with just over 800 metres of climbing and a minimum average speed required of 22km/h.

The road hugs the coastline as it winds between rainforest clad mountains and the waters of the Great Barrier Reef offering views from Rex Lookout, not twice, but three times. For the

Sport Results

MOSSMAN BOWLS

Saturday, August 24th.

Winners; Ted Holmes, Peter McGrory, Bernie Savage def. Ranald Edwards, Terry Richards, Jock Constantine +17. R/U; David Turnbull, Peter Worley, Keith Bunge def. Ray

Prain, Mike Sims, Bill Allison +3. John Cochrane, Charlie Toohey, Col Widdows def. Malachi McTaggart, Peter Busch, David White +1. Club Triples championship. Graham Winther, Graeme Foster, Joe Girgenti draw. Troy

more family-orientated or young at heart, the fully closed 2.2km circuit in front of Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina will be open for anyone to bring their kids down for the Choo Choos free family ride.

The Gran Fondo Festival is well regarded as a fantastic reason to visit the region with local businesses getting behind the two-day event to show their support.

“Another great community part of the festival is the Choo Choos’ free family ride on Saturday, September 7 between 4.30pm – 5.30pm,” Mr Staple-

Churchill, J. McCabe, Ali Douglas.

MARLIN COAST BOWLS

Tuesday, August 20th. Tuesday morning bowls. Winners; Peter S, Judy J, Laurie W. R/U; Bob, Barb W. Tuesday afternoon Men’s triples. Winners; D Parnell, P Williamson, B Wright. R/U; Danny, Ross, Robbo. Tuesday

ton said. “All kids who have registered and ride on the day receive a free ice cream from Choo Choos’ Ice Creamery.” Saturday will see riders take on the Hartley’s to Port Mountain bike race as well as the Lexus of Cairns Criterium and Wharf Street Sprint events in Port Douglas.

On Sunday, the Gran Fondo event will be held on a combination of courses that are open to other road users while others will be closed off to vehicular traffic.

For more details visit: portdouglasgranfondo.com.au

night bowls. Winners; Barry, Brad, Keith, Jammie, Paul, Ian C, Cobby, Dennis. Wednesday, August 21st. Wednesday mixed bowls. Winners; Phon, Andy J, Glenda. R/U; Rick, Laurie, Betty. Thursday, August 22nd. Thursday mixed self-selected triples. Winners; R Blake, SJ Pitt, N Robson. R/U; Jeanette, Christine, Jo. Saturday, Au-

Vollies needed

l CYCLING

Part of the magic of the 2024 Gran Fondo Festival is the opportunity to be involved as an active supporting role in this amazing community sporting event held between the September 6-8.

Once again, the festival organisers are seeking volunteers to help with all the important behind the scenes elements that make this event roll smoothly.

If you know your way around the course, handy on a barbecue or have swift water bottle top up abilities and love meeting new people, then volunteering for this twoday event is time well spent.

Added to this if you like the idea of being an unofficial ambassador for your local community

gust 24th. Saturday morning scroungers. Winner; Steve A. R/U; SJ Pitt. Club Championships. Men’s Triples. B Morris, E Blythe, N Robson def. S Bettess, J Gillman, B smith 20-19.

BROTHERS EDMONTON BOWLS

then your time spent as a volunteer at the Gran Fondo Festival will be rewarded.

This year they are looking for 200 volunteers to help make this amazing festival a great experience for everyone.

If your charity, community group, sporting club or just you personally would like to get involved please email at volunteers@ portdouglasgranfondo. com.au

As the saying goes, no good deed goes unrewarded as the organisers will provide a $50 donation to your chosen charity, community group or sports club for each shift as a way of giving a little back for your time. For more details on the 2024 Gran Fondo Festival go to portdouglasgranfondo.com.au

Wednesday, August 21st. Overall Winners; T. Moulds, R. Moody, D. Stewart. Game 1. Winners; M. Oh’ Halloran, R. Jorgenson, T. Collins. Thursday, August 22nd. Club Graded Triples. Winners; C. Taylor, A. Windsor, J. Rick. R/U; A. Crittenden, B. Mason, L. Hoskins.

Saturday, August 24th. Winners; D. Cairns, E. Atkinson, F. Richie. R/U; M. Girardi, R. Lee, D. Jacoora.

The mountains on one side and the Coral Sea on the other as cyclists head to Palm Cove. Picture: Supplied

Participants in the Gran Fondo free family ride. Picture: Supplied

Can Saints upset PD Crocs?

Round 19: Lions versus Hawks, Cutters take on Tigers, Crocs meet Saints

members of the squad who need a breather.

THE final round of the men’s regular season sees a drastic difference in the stakes compared to the AFL proper, with the top four and first week of finals already set in stone, barring the situation where Port Douglas lose by 150 points and City Lions winning by 150 points against the cellardwelling Hawks at Cazalys.

Cairns Saints are the only team with a likely chance of making a jump up the table but would need a big upset over the Crocs in Port Douglas.

The ladder being set in stone is only going to help the top four teams in their quest for premiership glory as they can rest and rotate

The game of the round, a Battle of the Compass, between first and second could represent a finalslike clash, with the Tigers the only team to beat their southern counterparts so far this year.

However, in a quirk of the schedule means that these teams are guaranteed to face off next week in the major final at Fretwell Park. That could lead to some cat-and-mouse between the two teams in terms of selection and tactics, making it an intriguing game for lovers of chess.

Perhaps the most intriguing watch this weekend is to see if Kye Chapple or Andrew Coombe can outkick Tyron Rainbird to win the goalkicking award.

As it stands, Rainbird is up by four on Chapple and 11 up on Coombe.

(Above) Kevvy Canendo, Jim Bennett and the Tigers took revenge with a win over the Cutters in round 10, with the decider at Watsons Oval tomorrow. (Above, right) Michael Dejonge and the Cutters silenced the Tigers in round 3. (Below) Tyron Rainbird of the Lions will be working to maintain his four goal lead at the top of the goalkicking ladder in the last round of the season tomorrow. Pictures: RAWI/AFL

Local Sport

TAKE THE SCENIC ROUTE

The beautiful Captain Cook Highway will be closed so competitors in the 2024 Gran Fondo can ride safely.

Smith’s leaving with Pride

City’s premier rugby league coach starts with NRL’s Redcliffe

Dolphins in 2025

l CAIRNS CBD

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

NORTHERN Pride’s head coach Eric Smith is heading south to take a role as coach of the NRL’s Redcliffe Dolphins, but he says his focus remains on ending this season with a premiership.

After an incredible year with Northern Pride, coach Eric Smith will leave the team at the end of the season to take a step forward in his coaching career with the Redcliffe Dolphins.

Having signed with Pride in November of 2023, Mr Smith has been vital in leading the team to a highly successful 2024 season with a 12-match winning streak, the first minor premiership in 10 years and securing the finals of the Hostplus Cup.

Although he’s excited for the new role, he says his focus is on winning the premiership.

“My main focus is to be on the Pride for the rest of the season. Finishing minor premiers has been a great achievement for the club and it’s a good reward for how hard we’ve worked,” he said.

“This is a nice opportunity that has come my way and I haven’t let that sink in because we’re heading into the first week of finals this week and my mind is on taking us as far into the final as we can and try to

win a premiership. I’ve brought to Northern Pride my discipline, attention to detail, and I expect high standards and we’ve seen some results from that work ethic this year, so my coaching style won’t change heading into next year.”

Mr Smith said the club had been very supportive of his decision.

“I think we’ve exceeded expectations this year, including mine, and that’s credit to the team, they’ve trusted me, worked hard and are seeing those rewards,” he said.

“Garret (Pride CEO) has been very supportive of my decision and over the year I’ve built relationships and a good rapport with the group so it’s always sad, but I believe their support

has made the process easier.”

Pride’s chief executive Garret Smith said they were “thrilled to see him take this well-deserved step forward in his coaching career”.

“Eric has been instrumental in our success this season, leading the Northern Pride to new heights in 2024,” he said.

“We are immensely grateful for his contributions.”

Northern Pride will begin the recruitment process for a new head coach immediately, with the aim of making an appointment for the 2025 season in a timely manner.

Northern Pride will face the Sunshine Coast Falcons in the first week of finals tomorrow at Barlow Park from 2pm.

Picture: Supplied

Pride head coach Eric Smith is always on the whiteboard. Picture: Supplied

Northern Pride coach Eric Smith has enjoyed his time in Cairns. Picture: Supplied