Cairns Local News March 01 2024

Local News Cairns

Amateurs go pro

Racing Queensland moves to ensure viability of iconic social event

l WOREE

| Nick Dalton

THE voluntary committee of Cairns Amateurs is standing aside and a new organisation is being created to employ professionals to run the iconic horseracing and social carnival from this year.

A new entity is being formed with a fresh steering committee to lead the highlight of the region’s social calender. The transition involves Racing Queensland and the Cairns Jockey Club.

Current Amateurs president David Goodman told Cairns Local News that the committee had not quit nor had gone broke. He said the future of Amateurs would be in the hands of a new committee which would hire professionals to look after administration and event managers to run the annual carnival which turns 66 this year.

Mr Goodman said the new concern would ensure the survival of the carnival.

“Bringing in a new structure and additional people ensures

it does continue and grows and has the ability to compete against other events,” he said.

Mr Goodman said Amateurs had become too much for volunteers to run. He said it was extremely time consuming for the committee, all of whom had busy professional lives.

“One year I worked out that I had spent six months of the year solely on Amateurs,” Mr Goodman said.

He said the carnival was facing continuing competition from events such as the Ironman, Italian Festival and even the Cairns Cup which last year was held just eight days before Amateurs.

Mr Goodman said Amateurs cost $1.5 million to run each year with revenue from sponsorships, grants, gate takings, and food and beverage sales.

He said the committee had to construct two precincts for the carnival – one at Cannon Park and at the Esplanade for the ball and high tea – onerous tasks for volunteers. Amateurs would be handing over tens of thousands of dollars to the new organisation, Mr Goodman said.

CONTINUED PAGE 2

Cairns Amateurs is being restructured to ensure the viability and future of the region’s iconic and premium social and racing carnival.

Picture: Cairns Amateurs/Paul Furse, Frontrow Foto

l CAIRNS CBD

| Nick Dalton

THE Cairns Art Gallery’s surplus has soared by 229 per cent from $84,768 to $278,821 in the 2023 financial year period.

Deputy mayor and board member

Brett Moller told last week’s council meeting it was a successful year, “a good operating result’ coming out of COVID.

He said the council’s annual $1.3m funding to the gallery was a good return on investment.

According to the annual report total income was $2.2m while spending was $1.9m.

Gallery chairman Doug McKinstry said, in the report, that historically the council had provided about 65 per cent of the gallery’s annual operational costs in a fouryear funding agreement.

“Recently this cycle was reduced to a three-year funding commitment. This year however, the council has reduced its multi-year funding to a two-year cycle as it is reviewing options for the creation of a new gallery precinct which may result in changes to the operations and governance of the existing Cairns Art Gallery,” he said.

The report said the gallery’s permanent collection of 1000-plus works was valued at $6.5 million, an increase of $65,256 over the previous year.

“The gallery’s acquisitions policy has a specific focus on works by artists who have cultural connection to country in the region, or who have lived in or visited our region,” it said.

“Together their works explore and comment on the political, social, cultural, and environmental issues and conditions relevant to a particular place and point in time and offer an important visual commentary on our history that is informed by their experiences of living in one of the oldest and most exciting tropical regions in the world.”

Mr McKinstry said one of the most important exhibitions last year was the international partnerships initiative that brought loans by major international artists.

“I commend gallery staff on their ability to negotiate excellent exhibitions and projects as part of this initiative, including the Andy Warhol/ Roy Lichtenstein exhibition presented in partnership with the National Gallery of Australia,” he said.

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Mr Goodman said he would not be joining the new committee but wasn’t sure about the rest of the current committee.

He said Amateurs had evolved over recent years to meet the higher expectations and attitudes of younger generations.

“It’s still the premier event and draws crowds from throughout Queensland and

throughout Australia and internationally, especially from New Zealand, and has grown to such an extent that it’s very hard to rely on a small committee of volunteers,” Mr Goodman said.

He said the Cairns Jockey Club would have a greater role. It had for many years run the horse racing and TAB sides of the carnival.

Mr Goodman, who has served on the Amateurs com-

CBD gallery records huge growth in surplus, revenue and visitors

New era for Amateurs with professionals to take charge

mittee for the past 15 years and was elected president in early 2021, said it had been an honour to be involved, but the time was right for a new structure to take the carnival forward.

Racing Queensland chief executive officer Jason Scott said the steering committee would feature prominent business and tourism leaders to succeed the Far North Queensland Amateur Turf Club committee, while the

Cairns Jockey Club would also increase its direct involvement in the iconic event.

“The Cairns Amateurs Carnival is more than just a race meeting, it’s a celebration of everything that is great about Far North Queensland,” he said.

“It’s a week-long celebration of fun, food and frivolity, set against the backdrop of one of the most idyllic places in the world.

“For more than half a century, the volunteer committee has done a tremendous job running the Cairns Amateurs and by establishing a new steering committee, we think the next 65 years can be bigger and better.

“We’d like the Cairns Amateurs Carnival to preserve its status as the Far North’s must-attend event for locals, Queenslanders and inter-state travellers alike.”

Gallery curator Kylie Burke with one of the international pop art exhibition pieces.

Picture: Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

First Cairns Youth Council aims to make difference for teenagers

Young voices for region

l CAIRNS REGION

| Isaac Colman

TWELVE Cairns teenagers have been sworn in to represent local young people at Cairns Regional Council for the next 18 months, following the recent success of the Foundation for Young Australians (FYA) Young Mayors program.

Delivered as a pilot program from the Foundation for Young Australians, the Young Mayors Program has involved partnerships with local councils in Queensland, New South Wales in Victoria.

Having been the country’s fourth democratically elected youth council, the Cairns Youth Council is also the second to be sworn in in Queensland.

In September and October last year, 24 young people campaigned for 12 youth council seats, with more than 3500 young people aged 12 to 17 casting votes at 17 polling locations across the region.

Youth council representative for the region’s north, Aiden Senaratne, said that he was looking forward to making a positive impact.

“I have the chance to address issues that are (of concern, or) affecting young people, and work towards finding solutions,” he said.

“It’s a chance to represent the interests and concerns of my peers, and advocate for positive change.

“It is also a great way to

connect and collaborate with a community of like-minded individuals, who are passionate about making a difference and are willing to share their ideas.”

Central area representative Sofia Hoorn said that she wanted to be a voice for the younger generation.

“I applied for the position on the youth council, because I believe that everyone has a story

to tell if we take the time to listen,” she said.

“Campaigning showed me that I was valued within my community, and that people listened to me when I spoke.”

FYA acting civic and cultural engagement executive director Tahlia Azaria said young people wanted to take an active role in the decisions that impacted their lives.

“The Cairns Youth Council has a mandate to represent the young voters who elected them,” she said.

“Now that they’ve been sworn in, they can start their important work.

“With access to a $10,000 youth fund, the Cairns Youth Council will work together and with the council to address their constituents’ priorities.”

Cairns Regional Council chief executive officer Mica Martin said the youth council would provide invaluable advice to the next group of councillors.

“Council is keen to see young people actively contribute to council’s decision-making processes,” she said.

“We’re excited to make this happen through the Cairns Youth Council.”

Warning about stomach bug disease

l FAR NORTH

STOMACH bug cases are rising in the Far North, with public health officials urging residents to take precautions – particularly involving swimming pools.

Cryptosporidiosis is a gastrointestinal disease caused by the microscopic parasite cryptosporidium and is a common cause of acute diarrhoea in young children.

As well as infecting humans, cryptosporidium occurs in a variety of animals including cattle, sheep, dogs and cats.

Since the start of 2024, 25 cryptosporidiosis cases have been reported in the Cairns region. A rise in cryptosporidi-

osis cases has been reported nationwide across Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria in recent weeks, with many of the cases being diagnosed in children aged nine years and under.

Tropical Public Health Services Cairns director Dr Richard Gair said cryptosporidium was usually acquired through the ingestion of contaminated water or food, or through contact with infected individuals or animals.

“Drinking or accidentally swallowing water contaminated with cryptosporidium parasites is a common mode of transmission,” he said.

“This can occur in places such as swimming pools, water parks, and other

recreational water facilities where water may be contaminated with faecal matter.

“The most common symptom of cryptosporidiosis is diarrhoea, especially in young children. Other symptoms include nausea, vomiting, fever, headache, and loss of appetite.”

Dr Gair said people should avoid swimming in pools, water parks or other recreational water facilities for at least 14 days after diarrhoea had stopped.

“Swimming pool operators also need to make sure that their swimming pools are properly maintained,” he said.

“This includes ensuring water quality is well maintained alongside good filtration, and disinfection processes.”

Dr Gair said Queenslanders should also adhere to good hygiene to prevent the spread of infection. “It’s important to wash hands thoroughly after going to the toilet, changing nappies, and after cleaning up animal faeces to minimise transmission of disease,” he said.

“You should also wash the hands of toddlers and babies after a nappy change.

“Children with diarrhoea should not return to childcare or school until diarrhoea has ceased for at least 24 hours and preferably 48 hours.”

Dr Gair said people could also minimise risk by washing fruit and vegetables before eating them, boiling any untreated water and then cooling it before drinking.

Beginning their first inaugural term, Cairns’ youth councillors (from left) Lana Kandakji, Delilah Jedynak, Sofia Hoorn, Antoniji Dimitrijevic, Sharmilla Butcher, Molly Ben Ezra, Olivia Morris, Yazmin Rivett, Aiden Senaratne, Matt Seaton, Vince Torrisi, and Braydon McCormack are ready to contribute to their community. Picture: Cairns Regional Council

Program ‘success’

Thanks to school scheme

l CAIRNS REGION

| Isaac Colman

CENTACARE FNQ’s School

Savvy team has received a high level of support and gratitude from local businesses, services, and a record-breaking number of students returning to school in style, following the organisation’s back-to-school pop-up shops last month.

As part of Centacare FNQ’s Anti-Poverty Week program, School Savvy is an innovative, community-based program that ensures every child has uniforms, shoes, lunch boxes, backpacks, and stationery for the best start to the school year.

In the wake of the region’s recent weather events, Centacare FNQ’s five pop-up shop locations in Cairns, Trinity Park, Atherton, Edmonton, and Innisfail were extended to include Mossman, Tully, Mission Beach and Wujal Wujal families who relocated to Cairns.

Since opening its first pop-up shop for 2024 at Cairns Showgrounds on Monday, January 8, School Savvy has helped 971 families, 2040 kids and provided some 227 free haircuts with ad-

ditional back-to-school outlets at Edmonton, Innisfail, Atherton, and Trinity Park.

Record-breaking numbers of people attended the pop-up shops for haircuts, school supplies and general relief to families.

School Savvy’s program coordinator Kumi Millward said that she was enormously grateful to local businesses and services, volunteers, and media for their help in ensuring the back-toschool pop-up shops were wellstocked, staffed, and welcoming.

“With the added demand following weather events in the lead up to Christmas, we could not have managed without the generosity of our community, who ensured there were enough uniforms, learning equipment and support to go around,” Ms Millward said.

Centacare FNQ’s executive director Anita Veivers said she was proud of School Savvy.

“Despite the high and unprecedented demand and increased number of pop-up shop locations, the team did a fantastic job,” she said.

“What they achieved, with the support of our local community, is a testament to hard work and serious commitment.”

Mossman State School students Amarli, Abigail and Kenai show their gratitude to Centacare FNQ’s School Savvy program. Picture: Centacare FNQ

Nominate valued volunteers

l FAR NORTH

IT’S time to honour the unseen heroes of the community once again as the nominations for the FNQ Volunteer Awards are open until March 8.

Aiming to shine the spotlight on the invaluable contributions of volunteers across the Far North, the awards are calling once again on the community to nominate the individuals who, through their selfless efforts, make people’s lives better.

Nominations close on Friday, March 8 and the awards will be celebrated during National Volunteer Week from May 20-26. Details on the award ceremony will be released soon.

FNQ Volunteers Inc coordinator Melissa Schulz said the organisation was looking forward to honouring the prowess of local volunteers.

“The FNQ Volunteer Awards 2024 provide a platform to recognise volunteers’ extraordinary contributions – it’s a celebration of their tireless efforts and unwavering commitment to making a difference,” she said.

“We encourage all volunteer organisations to nominate their outstanding volunteers for the FNQ Volunteer Awards – it’s an opportunity to express gratitude and appreciation for their invaluable work.”

To nominate visit www.fnqvolunteers.org.au or phone 4041 7400

Homes, sweet homes

l PORTSMITH

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

THE first modular home factory in Cairns will build 26 portable houses a year for remote communities across the Far North.

Modular one-bedroom, twobedroom and three-bedroom homes are already in the making at QBuild’s new facility on Redden St – the Rapid Accommodation and Apprenticeship Centre (RAAC) – which aims to produce and ship 26 homes to remote communities annually to address the housing crisis in the region.

Premier Steven Miles said the $3.86 billion ‘Homes for Queenslanders’ project would help deliver 53,500 homes by 2046, while also creating more jobs and providing a more immediate solution to the housing crisis aggravated by the recent cyclone and floods.

“We’re building homes for the future, and particularly for our remote communities there’s going to be new ways of building,” he said.

“And that’s what the RAAC is for. We will build 26 new homes in the QBuild factory in Cairns, and we can ship them from here to remote communities to deliver new better accommodation for government workers in those towns and in the process

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

freeing additional houses for the community. “What’s so powerful about these factories is that they can continue building yearround. They’re not affected by the wet season as we are when we’re building outdoors ...”

The facility was modelled after the Eagle Farm factory in Brisbane and will operate with

48 staff members, 13 new apprentices, 26 trainees and nine support staff, where the teams will be pulling together complete homes, bathroom modules, flatpack kitchens and timber frames.

“It’s a great exciting opportunity for QBuild and FNQ, putting on further apprentices

and trade staff to build, not just faster for Queensland, but build the industry where we’re really short on skill trades,” said QBuild FNQ acting regional director Wayne Pavey.

“Initially we’re starting with one-bedroom modules first, using innovative ways of building and much faster. Our biggest

challenge will be ramping up and keeping up with industry. We’re doing it right and we’ve based it of what’s working in Brisbane.”

Mr Miles said despite the remoteness of communities and poor roads, “we’re working through different ways of shipping these modular homes”.

SUNDAY 21 APRIL, 2024

Held by the members of the Atherton Tablelands Poultry Club Inc.

Auctioneers: Alan McKenzie and Rohan Hoffman

Venue: Percy Tardent Memorial Poultry Pavilion, Atherton Show Grounds

Viewing: 8:00am – 9:00am | Auction Start time: 9:30am

For enquiries, please contact Michael Firth on

Member for Cairns Michael Healy, Member for Cook Cynthia Lui, Queensland Premier Steven Miles, Treasurer Cameron Dick, Member for Mulgrave Curtis Pitt, Member for Barron River Craig Crawford, Minister for Housing Meaghan Scanlon with the RAAC apprentices on the first modular home.

Picture: Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

More Queensland, for more Queenslanders

Let’s grow a better Queensland together

Let’s face it, life in Queensland is pretty sweet. We’ve got the great outdoors, and that famous sunshine-state-of-mind. And we’re not the only ones who think so, because Queensland is growing. In fact, over the next 10 years our state is expected to grow with over a million more people through both interstate and international migration, as well as natural increase. That’s great news for our economy and communities. But with all those extra Queenslanders, it’s important that government, industry and communities work together to plan and build for this growth.

There’s no place like Queensland

A million extra Queenslanders means we’ll need more homes. And because household dynamics are changing, the types of homes we’re planning and building for need to change too. People want different things depending on their personal circumstances. There are more single person and single parent households than ever before and there will be more in the future. Not everyone wants a big block with an equally big mortgage,

or lawn they need to care for. So now and into the future there is going to be more demand for attached housing and smaller homes.

We call this housing diversity and we’re baking it into our future long-term strategic plans. From duplexes and granny flats to townhouses, terrace housing and units, we’re planning for more housing types so that more people can find homes to suit their needs and budgets. A bigger range of housing gives people more options about where they live, such as being able to live closer to family, friends or places of work. Ultimately our goal of well-planned growth is to provide people with a better quality of life and more time to connect - because what’s good for Queensland, should be good for every Queenslander too.

More people means more benefits

But it’s not just more homes in the pipeline.

As Queensland’s population grows, so will its vibrant communities, and it’s our job to plan ahead - to meet current and future needs of a changing population. More homes and people means more community benefits, like improving transport infrastructure, with more public transport services. It means more hospitals and more upgraded schools. And with all those extra people, we’re going to need somewhere for us all to hangout, practise some of that famous Queensland sociability and maybe kick a footy around (go Maroons!). So it means more parks and places to meet too.

Of course none of this exciting growth would be sustainable without proper planning. Queensland’s planning framework continues to evolve as the state grows and changes, but how it works is actually pretty simple. The state government’s planning framework is there to help development succeed - by encouraging the development of more walkable neighbourhoods for instance, streamlining planning approvals, increasing transparency and giving every community a voice. Which is where you come in.

Take a closer look

In Queensland, planning is a joint effort between the councils and the Queensland Government. The Department of Housing, Local Government, Planning and Public Works is the custodian of the overarching planning framework; working with Queensland’s 77 councils to ensure state and local interests are integrated into planning schemes to guide the future shape of our communities. Industry and the community also play a role in planning for the future, by getting involved when there is a new state or local government policy or plan, or when these instruments are being amended. The community can also have their say on certain proposed developments, when a development application is assessed.

So if you are interested in learning more about the planning process, what’s planned for your area, or how you can get involved, visit qld.gov.au/GrowingTogether and let’s grow a better Queensland together.

Enjoy day in the life of a sailor

l PORTSMITH

AS part of Navy Week, HMAS Cairns is once again opening its gates to the public tomorrow from 9am-2pm.

A Defence spokesman said it was a rare opportunity for the Cairns community to explore the inner workings of the naval base and “get an up-close look at the impressive vessels that protect our nation, engage

with our dedicated sailors and gain insights into their daily routines and duties”.

“Throughout the day, experience thrilling demonstrations of naval operations, including seaboat rides, ship tours, boat and engineering displays, speak with our serving members and marvel at the advanced technology that powers our fleet,” he said.

“For those seeking a

more hands-on experience, witness and become involved in interactive activities such as clearance diving display, military survey, or try your skills at our fitness course.

“Don't miss the opportunity to step aboard a real navy ship and imagine yourself as part of our professional crew.”

It is a free event. Book at https://bit.ly/3SYojPu

Steering new traffic routes

Submissions wanted for transport study

l CAIRNS REGION

| Nick Dalton

A NEARLY $1 million transport study is underway by the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) and Cairns Regional Council.

The $920,000 Cairns Transport Study is being jointly developed by TMR and CRC under a ‘one network’ approach.

According to the website, the study will “consider future trends and challenges, and ways to support sustainable, efficient, equitable and affordable transport outcomes consistent with long-term economic, social and environmental goals for Cairns”.

“The project will develop a strategy that sets out the priorities for developing Cairns city’s transport system across all modes to support CRC’s Towards 2050: Shaping Cairns Growth Strategy,” it said.

“The strategy will be used to guide state and local government to make future investment decisions for transport services and infrastructure to support the city as it grows.

“By 2046, the Cairns local

government area is expected to increase by about 59,000 residents.

“In addition to the substantial visitor numbers in the region, this significant residential growth will have an impact on the safety, efficiency and accessibility of the Cairns urban transport network.

“As part of the planning process, TMR is seeking input from transport users in Cairns about how they use transport, key issues with the existing transport

network and services, and opportunities for a better future transport system.

“The feedback collected will be used to develop a strategic vision and identify priorities for creating a better future transport system for Cairns.

“This planning will assist both TMR and CRC with prioritising upgrade options that will be considered for future construction funding.”

The study area includes:

• roads (state-controlled, local roads of regional significance, major arterial and sub-arterials, multi-combination networks)

• active and public transport corridors and networks (principal cycle network routes, public transport stops)

• long distance bus and coachstops

• railway (north coast line, Tablelands system rail, rail freight terminals and rail passenger stations)

• Cairns Port and Cruise Liner Terminal

• Cairns Reef Fleet terminal

• Cairns International Airport. Submissions, which close on March 29, can be lodged at: https://bit.ly/3uQvtNC

Cairns residents (front to back) Nate, Terri, Solomon and James go for a ride in an inflatable boat at last year’s HMAS Cairns open day. Picture: LSIS Shane Cameron

Vital hospital bed donation

l INNISFAIL

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

AN Innisfail family’s continued generosity has resulted in an essential gynaecological bed and procedure trolley for the Innisfail Hospital’s high dependency unit through a $13,500 donation to the Innisfail Hospital Friends of the Foundation.

The Catalano Family Foundation has donated almost $140,000 across the years, with the latest donation for a bed that will improve care and increase efficacy in gynecological checkups. Sam Catalano said the family

was happy to work with the Innisfail foundation to provide funding assistance for vital equipment that will help the local community.

“They are truly inspirational, always smiling and actively out in our community fundraising to assist in purchasing much needed equipment for the Innisfail Hospital. We were happy to assist in donating $13,500 this year,” he said.

Cairns Hospital obstetrician gynaecologist Joanna Arnold, who has been visiting Innisfail Hospital as part of the FROGS team (CHHHS Far Reach Obstetrics and Gynaecology Service) for 15 years, said the new equipment would make a

big difference in patients’ lives.

“A team of two gynaecologists visit Innisfail nearly every fortnight. We see women who require gynaecology review at Innisfail Hospital to provide them with the care they need, without travelling to Cairns,” she said.

“Up until now, we have had only one gynaecology examination couch available, which means women waiting for a particular procedure or checkup must wait until the doctor using that procedure room is free. With two rooms fully functional, we can get through the day’s work without delay and not have patients having to wait their ‘turn’."

Cracking up about footpaths Council audits 78km of walking and cycle tracks and plans $7.8m upgrades

l CASSOWARY COAST

| Nick Dalton

CASSOWARY Coast Regional Council plans to upgrade the region’s 78km network of footpaths, trails, and cycleways at a cost of $7.8 million over 10 years.

But last week’s monthly meeting was told to replace the entire network would cost $24.5m. Council asset engineering act-

ing manager Christopher Accatino said an evaluation of the path network was initiated after residents responded to a community scorecard survey about the range of services and offerings by the council.

“The survey revealed a somewhat unsatisfactory performance rating of 43/100 for council’s footpaths, trails, and cycleways,” he said. “This feedback, coupled with

detailed comments received, highlighted that residents hold higher expectations for these amenities than what is currently being delivered.

“In June 2023, council completed an extensive survey and evaluation of the 77.75km pathway network across the region.”

Mr Accatino’s report said 73 per cent of pathways were rated as having minor defects or “as new”. However, 7622sqm of

paths or 4.4 per cent had “severe defects” and would require $2.1 million to replace.

“Council last undertook a comprehensive survey of its pathways in 2014,” Mr Accatino said in his report.

“When compared to the condition data collected at this time, the network has deteriorated which indicates that capital renewal expenditure needs to increase otherwise this trend will

continue,” he said. “Currently, council’s transport asset management plan suggests a spend of $7.8m over 10 years which is expected to improve the current condition profile of the network.

“This clearly indicates that there is a shortfall in funding required in the short term and further work is required to propose a revised plan for adoption.”

Cr Theresa Millwood told the meeting that any upgrades

should not be confined to just Tully and Innisfail CBDs but include all towns and villages.

Cr Barry Barnes said the extended wet season had resulted in excessive mildew growth across the region and there was a need to look at making footpath surfaces less slippery.

He said he saw a woman fall over after slipping on a footpath at Colleen McLaughlin Park, in Cardwell.

High dependency unit and oncology clinical nurse Simone Jiggens-Anderson (left), director of nursing Michelle Slater, FNQ Hospital Foundation volunteer Johanne Stitt, foundation CEO Gina Hogan, Innisfail Hospital Friends of the Foundation representative Estelle Kopp, Sam Catalano, Catalano Family Foundation representative Leanne Sultana. Picture: Supplied

Best burgers in Australia

l EDGE HILL

EDGE Hill Butchery has brought both taste and recognition to the Cairns region, following their recent award for ‘best burger’ at the Australian Meat Industry Council’s National Awards held at Sunshine Coast over the weekend.

In what is considered the most difficult and well-contested category in the awards, the local butchery’s gourmet lamb and halloumi burger triumphed over 140 entries from across the country, securing the ‘best burger’ title.

Edge Hill Butchery co-owner Rod Leaver said that the award was a thrill.

“We’re absolutely thrilled and humbled by this incredible recognition,” he said. “This award is the culmination of years of hard work, a relentless pursuit of excellence, and a passion for creating a product that, not only tastes great, but also represents the best of what Australia has to offer.”

Co-owner Julie Leaver said “being crowned the best in the country is undoubtedly the highlight of our careers. This achievement reflects our team’s dedication, our commitment to using the finest ingredients, and our love for the art of butchery.”

Federal Member for Leichhardt Warren Entsch said that he was ecstatic to learn about the Leavers’ win.

Floods hit town again

But Tully Tigers determined to launch league season tomorrow

l TULLY

| Nick Dalton

CASSOWARY Coast Regional Council workers are pulling out all stops to ensure the Tully showgrounds are in the best condition for the Tully Tigers season launch this weekend.

The showgrounds where the team is based was inundated by flooding last weekend after also being hit by a deluge in December.

A council spokesman said council staff were working hard “to knock the grandstand into shape”.

“Shout out to the community groups who came together on Sunday to self-initiate an immediate clean up,” he said.

“A great show of collaboration through the Tully Tigers including Lions, Rotary, Tully Touch, Tully Football and the show society.”

The spokesman said there was inundation of the ground floor grandstand, including damage to the lift, changing rooms, electrical components, Tully Touch kiosk and administration area and club storage areas.

“Lions and Rotary facilities were inundated including extensive damage to kitchen, bar and cooking equipment and furniture,” he said.

“Other show assets are be-

ing assessed.” During the flood event the SES responded to seven calls for help including a flood boat rescue of Queensland Rail workers just north of Tully, two people and a dog evacuated from Mission Beach, a house at South Mission Beach that had water through it and needed sandbags, requests for sandbags and tarps for leaking

roofs and a rescue at Wangan for someone who decided to try their luck and drive through flood waters.

The spokesman said Tully Van Park had minor flood damage, including fencing, grounds and internal roads with electrical components being assessed, however the park was operational.

“The Tully works depot had flood damage and Tully Aerodrome had minor flood damage to taxiway and adjacent areas but is operational,” he said. Council dispatched crews to clear landslips that were blocking vehicle access, including:

Alexander Drive, towards Bingil Bay

• Fenby Gap, El Arish Mis-

sion Beach Road

• Explorers Drive, South Mission Beach

• Southern part of The Esplanade toward the boat ramp

• Jubilee, Cooroo Lands and Ella Bay roads

• Unsealed road network damage widespread regionally with reports coming in slowly.

1 Open and accountable government, strong community engagement and sound fi nancial practice.

2 Appropriate and flood-resilient town planning.

3 Using existing council powers to facilitate affordable housing and better public transport.

4 Reduced water demand through rainwater tanks.

5 Expanding and enhancing our green spaces with stronger tree protection.

6 Using strength in community to join forces with relevant agencies in addressing youth crime, safety issues and victim support.

1.

3.

I am a community facilitator of Aboriginal, Irish, English and French ancestry.

1. A vastly improved bus system.

2. More spaces, places, events and activities for local community connections.

3. Support for local arts and music.

calming measures in key problem areas.

3. Creating an Indigenous Gathering Space.

The Tully showgrounds were flooded again last weekend but are expected to be OK for Tully Tigers’ season launch tomorrow.

Picture: Daley Rata-Makene

2024 council elections

Ways to ease fiscal pain

Unity Team and Team Eden reveal their costs-of-living initiatives

l CAIRNS REGION

| Nick Dalton

TWO Cairns election teams have unveiled their cost-of-living policies, ranging from tiered water rates and discounted swimming to red tape reductions and more free community events.

The Unity team’s pledges include red tape reduction, hardship arrangements, more free events, and allowing more secondary housing options with existing homes.

Team Eden proposals include tiered water rates, $2 summer swims for Cairns residents, rates relief up to $1000 for first homebuyers in their first year, free year-round green waste disposal and waiving of council fees for rebuilding projects following declared natural disasters.

“This Unity-led council was quick to establish hardship arrangements for flood impacted residents, providing support through delayed payment, payment plans and other measures to support,” said team leader and Mayor Terry James.

“We continue to recommend that people experiencing hard times get in contact with council to discuss your options,” he said.

Cr James said a Unity-led council would reduce the cost of doing business in the city through red tape reduction across all functions of council, in turn reducing costs to residents.

“A pillar of the Cairns community and the suburbs are not-for-profit associations and community organisations that run activities and events throughout the city. A Unity-led Council will back these volunteer organisations through improving processes for the hire of council venues and facilities,” he said. Division 2 candidate Niki Giumelli said increasing the number of free events in the suburbs “provides the opportunities for families to come together and meet, provides options for entertainment for children and builds vibrancy in our suburbs.”

Team Eden leader Cr Amy Eden said under their tiered water system individuals and households who conserved water would receive lower pricing, “rewarding their commitment to sustainability”.

“Conversely, those who

consume water excessively will face higher rates, encouraging them to be more mindful of their consumption,” she said.

Tiered water pricing has been successfully used by many regional councils including Townsville, Mackay and Toowoomba.

Cr Eden said a Team Eden-led council would introduce $2 summer swims for Cairns residents at the council’s five community swimming pools.

“Discounted $2 summer swims will make these facilities more accessible to our communi-

ty, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to cool off, exercise and play in a safe environment.”

Cr Eden said the cost of these initiatives would be covered either through cost savings in other areas within council or would be cost-neutral.

Rehab concerns ‘ignored’

l SOUTHERN CORRIDOR

CAIRNS Regional Council division 2 candidate Matthew Tickner is accusing the state government of ignoring community concerns over the $20m youth and drug alcohol rehabilitation facility at Edmonton.

“It is clear after reviewing the consultation documents that the state government had made its decision well before the public had an opportunity to have their say,” he said

Mr Tickner said the public consultation process was conducted during the later stages of the COVID-19 pandemic which also affected the opportunity for many older residents to attend, this is particularly concerning due to the age demographic that resides in the immediate area of the proposed facility.

“It is very evident that through my consultation in the area, which has been extensive, the public are extremely concerned with the facility being located where it is. These concerns were voiced in 19 submissions to the consultation process with those concerns all but scrubbed by the minister”.

Mr Ticker said there were concerns the centre was close to four liquor shops.

“This centre and any other centre of this nature needs to be located outside the suburban atmosphere,” he said.

Team Eden canidiates (from left) Trevor Tim, Jo Piggott, Ian Moller-Nielsen, Amy Eden, Emma Gelling, Kesa Strieby, and Shane Trimby. Picture: Supplied

council elections

Families slam park facilities

l EDMONTON

TODD Park on Robert Road, opposite Souths Football Club in Edmonton, has been labelled as one of the most neglected parks in Cairns by Steve Lippingwell, candidate for division 2.

“Todd Park has no toilet block, inadequate lighting and a patchy CCTV network for the carpark and play areas,” said Mr Lippingwell.

“The park has a basketball court, footy field, BMX track, play equipment and skate and scooter ramps,” he said. “The closest amenities are at Souths Football Club across a busy Robert Road, which is obviously not suitable for children.”

“But young people and families can’t make full use of the area due to a lack of investment in crucial infrastructure.

“The park doesn’t even have a toilet block. This makes no sense to me or the community. It’s an enormous waste.

“Families, who use the park have been promised improvements by the Unity council for years but they never deliver.

“I can’t imagine this lack of service delivery happening in Edge Hill or other parts of Cairns The neglect on this side of town is wrong.”

Mt Sheridan mother Suzana Demis has boys aged four and six and her family use the

facilities regularly. She said the lack of toilets and patchy CCTV coverage meant she was worried for her children.

“Having no toilets makes it very difficult to bring the boys down,” she said.

“Once they’ve been playing and drinking water to stay hydrated, there is no where for them to go, so we have to pack up and go home after 45 minutes. Kids shouldn’t have to whiz in the bushes in a modern city.

“The park is so well used by all the families around here.

“Why do we have to beg for a toilet block or better lighting for the kids? It’s council’s job and no one has done a thing.”

Heat stress danger in focus Forum discusses climate change, flooding and overdevelopment on delta

l STRATFORD

| Nick Dalton

HEAT stress is an ever-present danger in Cairns, a community forum at Stratford has been told.

Community First hosted the forum last week which heard from James Cook University earth scientist Professor Bob Wasson and doctors Phillip Mu-

sumeci and Nicole Sleeman, Community First candidates for divisions 8 and 6. Dr Sleeman said most deaths from extreme weather events were caused by heat stress.

Prof Wasson said a key significance was the dew point, which was a measure of moisture in the atmosphere, and the more moisture the air contained, the higher its dew point. He said a dew

point of more than 24 degrees was considered dangerous and it was regularly breached in Cairns.

Both Prof Wasson and Dr Musumeci said that one extra degree of warming led to seven per cent more moisture in the atmosphere. They said the fact that Cyclone Jasper was stationary for so long was a contributory factor to the drenching and subsequent flooding in the Barron Delta and

Council News Update

Babinda Waste Transfer Station temporary closure

The Babinda Transfer Station will be closed on Wednesday 6 March to allow for the processing of green waste on site.

Residents can still dispose of general waste at the temporary bin at the Babinda Works Depot on Peever Rd.

Improvement works

Ishmael Rd, Earlville: Asphalting between Mulgrave Rd and Commercial Pl, and at the intersection of McGuigan St. Lane closures and traffic control as required.

Hoare St, Manunda: Sewage pumping station works near Monk St. Lane and road closures, from Monday 4 March.

4Visit Council’s website for a full list of improvement works.

New fishing rod holders

Council is installing 20 new fishing rod holders onto the handrails at the Barron River fishing jetty, located at the end of Rink Close, Stratford.

The works will require the closure of the jetty between 7am and 4pm, from 4 to 10 March.

The works aim to improve fishing safety on the jetty.

www.cairns.qld.gov.au

around parts of Caravonica.

Both men were highly critical of council development policy on the delta over many long years, especially sub-divisions that should never have been built and are calling on a moratorium on development on the delta until a full analysis is carried about flooding. Dr Musumeci said one development appeared to have increased flood damage

in a school and, in combination with a lack of culverts under the Cairns Western Arterial Rd, may have also increased damage to nearby homes. He said even the current Cairns Plan says a development should “not directly or cumulatively cause or increase adverse impacts of flood or storm tide inundation on other properties”.

Community First mayoral

candidate Denis Walls said: “If elected, I will call on the state government to thoroughly review the current deregulated planning process that often acts as the green light to developments and developers to build in areas that are potentially dangerous and with designs that are out of keeping with our tropical environment,” he said.

MORE ELECTION STORIES P28-29

Division 2 candidate Steve Lippingwell, Suzana Demis with Atlas, Sasha and Orion at the neglected Todd Park, Edmonton. Picture: Michael Watt

Leanne

Andy Marr, Stratford Taylor Point rally was ‘a success’

Neil

Kewarra

Ian Lindsay, Cairns Don’t

THIS WEEK’S QUESTION

Will you support Amateurs this year as it goes through a new era of professionalism and why?

@cairnslocalnews

In the last edition we asked the question: What issues should be raised with the Premier and cabinet ministers when they meet in Cairns on February 28? Here are some of your comments.

Insurance, youth crime, ambulance ramping and de-escalating the advertising war over coal royalties as it’s costing the government and the mining companies as much as they stand to gain or lose by slightly reducing or upping the tax. The rest of the issues are either federal or local, extremely fringe, or probably beyond the scope of governance.

Sean Christensen, Facebook

When are they going to upgrade and repair our roads? Going up the Kuranda Range is a joke.

Chris Snow, Facebook

Rather than fixing, we need a new range road.

Shane Horne, Facebook

Insurance? After the farce of Warren Entsch’s government re-insurance scheme failure, what is the government going to do to ensure that FNQ has access to affordable

insurance, including those in recently flooded areas?

Cam Wan, Facebook

Kuranda Range Road safety upgrades and alternative route.

Michael McNeilly, Facebook

Crime is the number one issue of concern to residents. Young criminals are laughing at the police and the victims because they know they will get a slap on the wrist. In my day we got the cane at school, a bigger hiding when we got home and, if we really did something bad, a visit to the local police sergeant, who read the riot act. There’s no discipline at home because governments won’t let parents/ guardians punish their children with a clip around the ear or a slap with a strap. We have become a soft society and are paying the price for our weakness.

John Nicholas,

Facebook

Vick

Nick

Member

l MOSSMAN

THE Mossman Junior Sharks Rugby League Club provides an opportunity for youngsters to, not only get involved in a team sport, but also get fit, have fun and maybe even become a future NRL star.

They are currently gearing up for another exciting season, in which they plan to be stepping up their training with more contact and tackling practise during the sessions.

The club, under the fresh leadership of president Daniel Hober and the dedicated committee, has kicked off the season with unprecedented success. This year’s season launch, not only witnessed a significant increase in community engagement, but also marked a notable surge in participation across all age groups, with a special emphasis on the critical 13-17 year-old boys and girls.

For the past two decades, this age group has seen a worrying decline in participation in sport in the Douglas Shire, a trend that has been a concern for both the club and the wider Mossman community. Many within the club attribute this downturn to the absence of competitive rugby league teams and academies within the local schools. Initiatives that have been highly successful in the Cairns and Townsville communities.

Such programs have been instrumental in other areas for, not only enhancing school

attendance rates, but also providing a positive outlet for teenagers, steering them away from potential involvement in crime and fostering a sense of belonging and community.

In response to these challenges, President Hober and the committee have spearheaded a series of initiatives aimed at reversing this trend and reigniting a passion for rugby league among the youth of the Douglas shire.

The club’s outreach efforts have included posters and flyers in the local schools, implementation of a partnership with the Cape York Girls Academy who are bringing 10 girls to training twice a week, a social media campaign and come and try sessions specifically tailored to attract young people back to the sport.

“We believe every child in our community deserves the chance to engage in sports, to learn teamwork, discipline, and to gain the health benefits that come with regular physical activity,” said President Hober.

“Our aim is to make rugby league accessible to all and to build a strong, supportive network for the youth of the Douglas shire.”

The initiatives introduced by the new leadership have already begun to yield positive results, with an increase in registrations and active participation from both boys and girls across all age groups.

This revitalised interest speaks volumes about the potential impact of dedicated community and school engagement on youth

sports participation.

Furthermore, the club has placed a strong emphasis on inclusivity, ensuring that opportunities to play and engage with the sport are open to everyone, irrespective of their prior experience or background. This inclusive approach aims to create a welcoming environment for all, encouraging diversity and unity within the team and the broader community.

The success of the Mossman Junior Sharks Rugby League Club’s season launch is a beacon of hope for the future of youth sports in Douglas shire. It underscores the importance of community-based sports programs as a vital tool for engaging young people and providing them with constructive outlets for their energy and talents.

As the season progresses, the club looks forward to building on this positive momentum, with the goal of establishing a lasting legacy of rugby league passion and participation in the Douglas Shire. The Mossman Junior Sharks are not just playing a game; they are building a community, one try at a time.

Go the Junior Sharkies.

I’m off to practice my dummy pass, so for now it’s Gazza signing out.

Send your stories to gazza@cairnslocalnews.com.au

Mossman Junior Sharks training hard for the new season.

TimeOut

Amazing costumes to stun

Designer Linda Jackson joins team of The Great Medecin Travelling Show

l CAIRNS CBD

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

ADDING to the magic of the enigmatic, classic and almost vaudevillian outfits and setting of the upcoming The Great Médecin Travelling Show, the Centre for Australasian Theatre (CfAT) has announced the addition of renowned designer Linda Jackson to the visual arts team, to take the visuals of the larger-than-life performance to new heights.

Known for her iconic designs blending art, culture and fashion, Ms Jackson has joined the show, bringing her expertise into the collaborative production to elevate the visual storytelling on stage.

The show, described as an exploration of the human experience through an array of relatable quirky and culturally diverse characters, is coming to Cairns for three shows at the Cairns Performing Arts Centre from Friday, March 7 to Saturday, March 9 before taking the show up to Atherton, Julatten and Kuranda.

Having previously worked with CfAT on numerous successful projects, including their first major work in 2012 – Colony, Ms Jackson has also participated in other productions like CfAT’s The Fleeting World creat-

ing indigo costumes among other productions with the theatre company.

“Joining forces with Catherine Hassall, Guillaume Brugman and the CfAT team again is a wonderful opportunity,” Ms Jackson said.

“The Great Travelling Medécin Show presents an array of fascinating characters and narratives, and I am excited to be part of the troupe on this journey through our collaborative development of specific characters’ costumes, “ she said.

“How marvellous to transport the audience into the magical world of the Médecin show.”

CfAT co director Catherine Hassall said the work synergy the team had with Ms Jackson would make for a stunning show.

“Linda Jackson’s unique artistic vision and her ability to weave stories into her designs makes her the perfect addition to our team,” she said.

“We have collaborated on numerous projects previously, and I am thrilled to reunite with her on the Great Travelling Médecin Show.

Linda’s talent and passion for creating visually captivating pieces will undoubtedly enrich the storytelling experience once again.”

For more information, visit www.cairns.qld.gov.au/CPAC

You & Me showcasing the best of Indigenous art across the Far North

l MANUNDA

CELEBRATING the artistic diversity of First Nations art in FNQ, UMI Arts 2024 season opener exhibition You & Me, opening in March, will feature 30 artworks by First Nations artists across the Far North

highlighting culture. Launching on March 15 at the UMI Arts gallery, You & Me 2024 will kickstart UMI Arts’ exhibition season with a celebration of First Nations’ artistry through 30 new artworks in various mediums and styles by 15 First Nation artists from Babinda, Cairns, Yarrabah, Mossman,

Normanton and the Torres Strait Islands.

UMI Arts exhibition officer Robyne Pacey said You & Me was an annual group members exhibition showcasing the rich artistic diversity in First Nations art and culture in Far North

Queensland. “UMI is a creole word that means ‘you and me’. This is significant because we must work together to keep our culture strong,” she said.

Seasoned artist from White Rock, Kevin Edmonston (pictu-

red), will be exhibiting three pieces at the You & Me exhibition representing sea and land and its connection to his culture.

“I’ve been with UMI for at least 10 -15 years and I’m really proud to be able to represent myself as an artist through their exhibitions,” he said.

“For You & Me I’m presen-

ting three pieces two canvas and a wall piece, this wall art is something new that I’ve been wanting to try for a long time, the wall piece is made out of timber and it’s cut out in a certain way, I’ve sanded it and painted a turtle over it, it’s done by pens and then varnished. It’s a technique that takes a long time to learn.”

The Great Médecin Travelling Show cast (from left, rear) Zachary Barclay, Maya Thiango Hassall and Guillaume Willem Brugman and (front) Catherine Hassall, Miyako and Ola Adamczyk. Inset: Linda Jackson. Pictures: Supplied

Musos step back in time

l CAIRNS CBD

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

WHIP out the shoulder pads, your best perm and neon outfit because the Back to the 80s party at the Reef Hotel Casino is back by popular demand this March with all the 80s greatest hits, from Men at Work and INXS to Bon Jovi and Duran Duran.

Now celebrating two years, BAR36 at the Reef Hotel Casino will host Cairns’ biggest 80s party once again by the hand of local four-piece band Big Noise and DJ BEasy who will take you on a journey across all of 80s unique sounds from Aussie and Kiwi rock, Brit new wave to American anthem, and more this March 15 and 16.

“The previous 80s parties have been huge. When we first launched it, we didn’t expect

it to become so successful but they have,” Reef Hotel Casino entertainment manager Bruce Stewart said.

“We’ve had so much positive feedback and response to these fun nights that we just have to keep rolling them out. We’re keeping it fresh but maintaining the essence of it that keeps people coming back.”

Offering a sound and visual experience, Big Noise repackaged themselves for the shows to a four-piece with Adrian Cartwright taking to the front of the stage as true 80s style frontman. Rolling out hit after hit, members Jock Williamson, Dale Monaghan and Brad Townsend will cover the great music catalogue accompanied with colourful and trippy visuals on the screen.

“We all played in bands in the 80s, so these are songs that we’re used to playing and that were very big in the day,” said

frontman Adrian Cartwright.

“We’ve developed a list out of all the hits and all of the songs that we wanted to play but never got to play, and over the last year, we’ve been adding new ones and dropping other ones.

“These are songs that we all remember as big hits. We all sing so we’ve adapted the songs to our voices, and you’ll get everything from A Flock of Seagulls to Bon Jovi to Tears for Fears. One of our favourites to perform is Working for the Weekend.

“The reason people love these Back to the 80s parties is because we keep our repertoire fresh but the essence stays the same, we have that consistency where people remember the show and invite their friends.

“Gather your friends, dress up in 80s gear, and enjoy these timeless songs.”

For more information, visit BAR36’s Facebook page

Local band Big Noise will lead you on a journey back in time at the Back to the 80s party at BAR36.

Feast of the Senses returns to highlight the region’s produce

l CASSOWARY COAST

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

A CELEBRATION of the colours and flavours of the tropics, the popular Feast of the Senses is coming back this March for a beautiful exhibition of everything Far North with visitor’s favourites like the food trails, the Australian Bananas River Feast, and the exotic fruits display.

Feast of the Senses returns from March 21 and local businesses in Innisfail are eager to receive the estimated 4000 visitors that consistently visit the tropical festival every year.

Feast of the Senses president Rosi Jensen said there was a lot in store for the festival in 2024.

“We have events from March 21-24 that showcase our town like the art deco walk in the shire hall that kicks off the festival on Thursday, we’ve got the RSL trivia nights, the very popular food northern and southern food trails with some new places to visit on them,” she said.

“This year river cruises can’t be on, so we’ve added more feasts and dinners like this year’s tropical family feast at East Palmerton Hall on Friday night, and Brothers Leagues Club is also running a ‘taste of the tropics’ bistro on Saturday night.

“What sets Feast of the Senses apart is that it’s one of the few

festivals that celebrates the entirety of North Queensland, with a name like Feast of the Senses we try to showcase how the Tablelands and FNQ are so lucky to have everything we need up here, some of the best dairy cattle, agriculture, produce, and more.”

The staple of the festival – the Australian Bananas River Feast –

with dozens of local stallholders, live entertainment, lots of food and drink options, and a display of exotic fruits and produce of the region will be taking over Edith St in Canecutter Court, Innisfail on March 24.

“We are thrilled that the Australian Bananas River Feast is almost here,” Ms Jensen said.

“Our volunteer committee has

worked incredibly hard to bring this event to the community, and it would not happen without the financial support of Australian Bananas and numerous other supporters, including the Cassowary Coast Council.

“Gates will open at 9am on Sunday, March 24 and entry is free.”

With a lot of fun events for

the whole family, Ms Jensen prompted the community to join in the celebration.

“It’s always fun and there’s always something different to try and we can’t wait to receive our loyal interstate and international visitors that return every year,” she said. For more information, visit www.feastofthesenses.com.au

Inspiring stories of resilience and strength after cyclone

l CAIRNS CBD

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

SIX stories of resilience and strength will uplift audiences as the heart-warming theatre production GRIT makes its way up to Cairns for three unforgettable shows that will honour regional voices.

Developed in Gympie by the Perseverance Street Theatre Company (Gympie) after the 2022 devastating floods, GRIT is touring Queensland and will make its way up to Cairns by the hand of partners JUTE Theatre Company, from Thursday, March 7 to Saturday, March 9 at Bulmba-ja theatre, looking

to bring some hope in the aftermath of Cyclone Jasper. GRIT will also bring a FNQ story to life on the stage.

Perseverance Street Theatre Company’s chief executive Dr Sharon Hogan said she couldn’t wait to bring GRIT to Cairns audiences.

“GRIT is about resilience and how we get back up again. It is a celebration of tenacity and a very uplifting production,” she said.

“It premiered in 2022 after an exhaustive creative process in which our team interviewed more than 30 people

of different ages and backgrounds.

“From artists, mothers, doctors to engineers, to veterans and pensioners, GRIT emerged into a profound performance of six original stories with stunning vocals.

“We wanted to do a story in the aftermath of the floods, but this is not a story about the floods, these are stories about lives of people and its challenges within the floods. There all sorts of extraordinary stories, there’s romance, they’re endearing.”

JUTE Theatre Company artistic di-

rector Suellen Maunder said she was excited to support and present Perseverance Street Theatre Company’s touring production of GRIT.

“GRIT came out of a three-year project Build Back Better that connects regional theatre, where we tour each other’s work,” she said.

“From hosting a series of skills-based training modules to regional touring, we have made real inroads into the growth of Queensland’s regional theatre industry.”

Ms Hogan said GRIT would touch the audience on a personal level and leave them inspired. To buy tickets via Humantix, visit https://bit.ly/49tq1zb

Author’s take on the Bible

l EDMONTON

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

WITH a controversial title and polemic topics, the debut nonfiction Bible investigation book by local author Peter Erbacher, ‘How the Bible destroyed my religion’ explores the Catholic church’s doctrines and scriptures while encouraging its readers to question everything.

Born and raised in Cairns and Edmonton as part of a traditional Roman Catholic family, Mr Erbacher (above) always had a very logical way of thinking that led him to start questioning his religion and at age 12 he asked the question that prompted the premise of the book he would write decades later.

“As early as grade four I was questioning what I was being taught, because what my religious teachers were teaching me, the Bible seemed to suggest otherwise,” Mr Erbacher said.

Decades after he questioned his priest, he decided to run an in-depth investigation on all of these contradictions raised by his reading of the Bible and through thorough investigation and interviews with religious leaders of several religions, he went on to compile his discoveries in ‘How the Bible destroyed my religion’.

“I understand the title and the contents can be controversial but it’s not the intention, I’ve always been a very logical person and I wanted to search for the truth on these seemingly tough questions that most people have asked themselves and find answers,” he said.

“My intention is not coming from any moral high ground. I encourage people to read it and question everything I say and do their own research.”

The book is currently available at Ree’s Bookshop, and from all online platforms including Amazon.

Celebrity chefs Maya and Helen Huong at the 2023 Feast of the Senses. Picture: Supplied

Fletcher Colfs plays The Storyteller in GRIT.

YEAR 7 EVENING @ PEACE LUTHERAN COLLEGE

l TUE MAR 5, 6:00PM-7:30PM

Do you have a child moving into Year 7 in 2025 or 2026? Are you interested to know more about the progressive steps that will support your child’s transition from primary into secondary school, providing foundations for optimal learning?

We invite you to come along to our Year 7 Information Evening, venture into open classrooms, learn about our curriculum, meet our teachers and students, and learn about how we support students as they step up into high school.

For more information or to register visit the Peace Lutheran College website.

BOOK LAUNCH @ THE GERMAN CLUB

l SAT MAR 2, 6:00PM-10:00PM

Himalayan Dreams: The Story of Som Tamang

Join us for a special evening and enjoy a delicious 2 course meal, music, raffles and discussions with Kirsty and Som. Proceeds from this event will go towards Som’s dream of extending Batase School in Nepal to Grade 12 and support children in Batase Village to attend school. Education has been the key to Som protecting girls in rural Nepal from sex trafficking and child marriage.

Cost: Adult $55.00 / Child(under16) $25.00

Location: German Club 57 Winkworth St, Cairns Book your tickets through trybooking.

STAGING ONESELF @ CAIRNS ART GALLERY

l SAT MAR 2, 10:00AM-5:00PM

Staging Oneself examines the extraordinary and creative ways in which contemporary women artists use role play, disguise, and self-portraiture to explore womanhood and female identity within the public and private spheres. Cairns Art Gallery consultant curator Julietta Park, has brought together works by fourteen artists on loan from public and private collections in Australia and overseas for inclusion in the Gallery’s Staging Oneself International Partnership Program exhibition.

Exhibition Runs: 24th February – 19th May 2024; Entry: Free Entry For more information please visit the Cairns Art Gallery website.

CLAY ON COUNTRY @ CAIRNS ART GALLERY

l SUN MAR 3, 10:00AM-2:00PM

Clay on Country is a diverse and eclectic survey of works by 32 artists and collectives from the central desert region of the Northern Territory. Works in the exhibition explore ancestral stories, contemporary experiences and settler histories, alongside the joys and challenges of working with clay, including the push and pull tactility of this most wonderful of all art materials.

Exhibition Runs: 2nd March– 26th May

Entry: Free Entry

For more information please visit the Cairns Art Gallery website.

STILL LIFE COMES ALIVE @ CAIRNS MUSEUM

l SAT MAR 2, 10:00AM-4:00PM

The latest temporary exhibition at Cairns Museum is a partnership between Cairns Historical Society and Cairns Art Society, curated by Daniela Vávrová. The term still life describes a work of art that depicts objects from the natural or man-made world. The objects on display in the Cairns Museum are not animated. But they used to be part of everyday life and are very much alive in helping tell the history of Cairns. See it for yourself!

Exhibition Runs: Friday 3rd November till 9th March 2024

For more information visit the Cairns Museum website.

RUMOURS @ RONDO THEATRE

l SAT MAR 2, 7:30PM-9:30PM

Written by Neil Simon and directed by Narelle Shorey

Deputy mayor, Charlie, and his wife are to host a glamorous anniversary party at their home. Chris and Ken Gorman are the first of eight guests to arrive to find Charlie wounded in bed, his wife missing, the domestic help gone and unprepared food in the kitchen. Instead of taking Charlie to the hospital and notifying the police, Chris and Ken decide it is more important to try to protect Charlie’s reputation.

Performance Dates: February 27th to March 2nd – 7:30pm

Rated: PG. Book your tickets through the Rondo Theatre.

GIG Guide

FRIDAY

Dunwoodys Hotel Gumpy Savidas, 4:00pm

Barron River Hotel Eddie Skiba, 6:00pm

Cazalys Cairns Hot Ice, 6:30pm

Atherton International Club Infinity Duo, 7:00pm

Tanks Arts Centre Ecstatic Dance, 7:15pm

CPAC A salute to Roy Orbison & The Everly Brothers, 7:30pm

Tanks Arts Centre True Vibenation, 7:30pm

Babinda Taverna Carina Christie, 7:30pm

Silkwood Hotel Denim Blues, 7:30pm

Bar36 Reef Hotel Casino Tony George, 9:00pm

SATURDAY

Strait on the Beach No More No Less, 4:00pm

Cazalys Cains Lexi & Waha, 6:30pm

Bosca’s Restaurant & Club Infinity Duo, 7:00pm

Trinity Beach Tavern Steve Williams, 7:00pm

Tanks Arts Centre Andrew Farriss, 7:30pm

Red Beret Hotel Bobby Longstaff, 8:00pm

Bar36 Reef Hotel Casino Tony George, 9:00pm

SUNDAY

Mandala Café Blue Reed, 10:00am

Dundees at the Auarium DjGlennW, 11:30am

Tolga Hotel Two Dogs, 12:00pm

Dunwoodys Hotel Rob Longstaff, 2:00pm

Yorkeys Knob Boating Club Victoria Boxall, 3:00pm

Bar36 Reef Hotel Casino Hot Ice, 7:30pm

IMAGE: Wawi NAVARROZA, Born in Manila, Philippines, 1979, The Heap/Viva La Vida (Portrait of A Female Artist, at 40, Self-Portrait) 2019, C – Print, 105.6 x 137.35 cm, Courtesy of the artist and Silverlens Gallery, New York, USA and Manila, Philippines.

IMAGE: Yarrenyty Arltere Artists, Merne (food) Plates Art Plates Now 2021, decals on found crockery, 32 plates, 190 x 170 cm (installation), Courtesy of Yarrenyty Arltere Artists, Photograph: Sara Maiorino

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Weekly Horoscopes

This week, a bold action could pay off. You might go out of your way to help someone else, whether you’re offering a helping hand to a

CROSSWORD

This week, things shift in your favour. You might have responsibilities to others, but your heart isn’t in it. You might feel unappreciated or like it’s become a burden. If you have an opportunity to hand over the reins, even for a day, it might be worth considering.

This week, taking a risk could inject some excitement into your life. If you need help, you’re going to have to spend the time doing the necessary paperwork. This could frustrate you, try not to lose your cool. A friend could challenge you to something invigorating.

This week, you have the answers others seek. You might be risk averse early in the week, creativity is not favoured. Dive into arranging things and ticking off small tasks until the creativity returns. Later in the week your finances will be in focus, bold action is favoured.

This week, you could tap into the source. It’s time to plug up some of those small holes in your finances, checking for duplicates and comparing services could be worth the time. You could come across a moneymaking activity that makes use of your skills and interest.

This week, an opportunity for gain opens up. You’ll need patience on the love front this week, your love could be running late or perhaps there’s an external thing causing irritation. Watch out for arguments. You might need to look at what can be delegated at work.

This week, you’re focusing on the right things. While you generally remain stoic, a family member could irritate you. Steer clear of difficult family members early in the week. You could take a chance on love. It’s a great time to accept a party invitation, you might meet someone dazzling.

some work to unravel it. Pay attention to the details and fi ne print and check it all adds up first. Adventurous family activities are favoured.

This week, you’re in the hands of the Universe. Something you’re trying to learn might not be making any sense. It might be better to set it aside and let your mind work on it for a while to fi ll in the gaps. Risky choices might be blocked, your guides are watching over you.

This week, some luck comes your way. It’s possible that what you want to achieve will come with some hurdles. Consider rescheduling the task to another time. Later in the week you’re the person with the answers, the energy is perfect for diving into studies.

This week, you’re creating good feelings in others. There could be miscommunication early in the week. You might be willing to help someone out but be sure to have clear boundaries from the get-go. On the work front you’ll be able to rouse enthusiasm in others.

ACROSS

8. a god that represents or personifies the sun in various religions (3,3)

9. occurring or done many times at short intervals (8)

10. a sea animal that has five arms (8)

11. to finish or run out (6)

12. a slightly elastic machine-knit fabric (6)

13. a number that is one more than 18 (8)

15. a short-sleeved casual tops (1-6)

17. temporarily inactive or inoperative (7)

20. a surface water sport in which an individual is pulled behind a boat (5,3)

22. relatives by marriage (2-4)

23. to get by with difficulty (3,3)

25. a short piece of writing at the beginning of a book (8)

26. to recall to the mind by an act or effort of memory (8)

27. the second of three standardized British school examinations (1,5)

DOWN

1. a walll support usually of stone or brick (8)

2. behaving or done in a determined and forceful way (10)

3. a strange or peculiar person or thing (6)

4. without previous thought or consideration (7)

5. an archaic, formal term for “to this document” (8)

6. a compact mass of a substance (4)

7. not faithful or loyal (6)

14. a plant that grows in desert areas in North America (10)

16. a hollow cylinder of thin glass with one end closed (4,4)

18. a short film of news and current affairs (8)

19. to fail to discharge or fire properly (7)

21. an ornament worn round an ankle (6)

22. a direct and noticeable effects on something (6)

24. exposed to the air or to view; not covered (4)

Program Guide

FESTIVAL DIRECTOR’S WELCOME

“

IT is with immense pleasure and excitement that I extend a warm welcome to each and every one of you, to the vibrant heart of literary celebration – the Cairns Tropical Writers’ Festival! As the Festival Director, it is an honour to usher in this annual extravaganza of stories, words, ideas, and creativity that showcases the richness and diversity of our literary landscape.

Since 2008, the Cairns Tropical Writers’ Festival has stood as a beacon, illuminating the power of storytelling and the magic of words in the Tropical North. Year after year, we gather together as a community of passionate readers, aspiring writers, and seasoned wordsmiths to celebrate the profound impact of literature on our lives.

This year’s festival promises to be nothing short of spectacular. From captivating author talks to interactive workshops, from insightful panel discussions to mesmerizing performances, our program is brimming with opportunities to engage, inspire, and connect. Whether you’re a seasoned bibliophile or just beginning your literary journey, there’s something here for everyone.

One of the most remarkable aspects of our festival is its ability to foster connections – between authors and readers, between ideas and inspiration, and most importantly, between people. As you immerse yourself in the festivities, I encourage you to embrace the spirit of camaraderie and openness that defines our

community. Because who knows? You may forge unexpected friendships or discover a new favourite author whose words resonate deeply within you.

At the heart of the Cairns Tropical Writers’ Festival lies a simple yet profound belief – that stories have the power to change the world. They have the power to ignite imaginations, challenge perceptions, and bridge divides. In a world that often feels far from unified, sharing stories serves as a binding opportunity, reminding us of our shared humanity and interconnectedness.

So, as you embark on this literary adventure with us, I invite you to open your hearts and minds to the transformative power of storytelling as we celebrate the power of words, the beauty of language, the diversity of voices, and the boundless possibilities that lie within the pages of a book.

Thank you for joining us on this storytelling journey. Together, we will make this year’s Cairns Tropical Writers’ Festival a celebration to remember!

Jules St r

Festival Director, Cairns Tropical Writers’ Festival

9.00am: Slow Burn to being an Author

Forty years is a long time to realise a dream. But that’s just how long Nathan Best waited until he become a traditionally published author with the Damien Hunter series of action thriller novels. In conversation with Matt Maloney, Nathan will detail how his experiences have shaped his story.

11.30am: Kokoda

Kokoda was a defining battle for Australia, where a young, ill-equipped force engaged a highly experienced and unstoppable opposition. Yet few know the names of the men who fought on the track, or the details of what happened. Bestselling author Peter FitzSimons joins former soldier and founder of Brothers and Books, Dylan Conway, to delve into this lesserknown side of this iconic battle.

2.00pm: Gun To The Head

A highly decorated police officer, Keith Banks joins Dylan Conway to discuss his life as a deep undercover cop and later as a special weapons operator in the most corrupt era in Queensland's history. Raw and engaging, dark but not humourless, Keith will share the type of policing not often discussed; the depths of his PTSD and his ultimate recovery.

10.15am: The Teacher’s Pet

12.45pm: Succulent Chinese Meal

If you thought you knew the story of The Teacher's Pet, get ready to be shocked. Join investigative journalist, podcaster and author Hedley Thomas in conversation with Advance Cairns CEO, Jacinta Reddan as

Chances are you have seen the video of a baritone larrikin getting arrested, declaring a democracy manifest outside a Chinese restaurant. Dubbed the pre-eminent Australian meme of the last 10 years, Mark Dapin investigated and learned that this man's story went to the heart of the Australian underworld and was indeed, a true crime cult classic in the making.

10.15am: All The Rage

Paulie Stewart OAM is an Australian rock legend. He’s also a legend of the movement advocating for the freedom of East Timor and West Papua. Join Cairns’ very own radio legend, Dave Warner in conversation to discuss Paulie’s life from Painters and Dockers to supporting Timor-Leste’s

9:00am-10:45am - Workshop - Losing the Plot, and Finding it Again with Craig Batty Plotting is arguably one of the most difficult aspects of developing a story, whether for a screenplay, novel or other form. This workshop will use creative screenwriting approaches to push participants to go places they would not have thought to go!

10:45am-11:30am - Official Opening

11:00am-12:15pm - Workshop - Unleashing Your Creativity for Creative Writing with Craig Batty

Do you have ideas that you want to explore using creative writing? Are you working on a writing project but feel stuck with where to take it next? This workshop is for writers of all ages and at all stages, to inject some creativity into your ideas and projects.

11:45am-1:45pm - Workshop - A Sense of Place with Tony Park

In this workshop, best-selling author Tony Park will draw on his real-life experience as an author and traveller to show attendees how to use the core elements of writing - narrative, dialogue and description - combined with some real-world tips on research, to successfully ‘illustrate’ what’s happening around them.

12:00pm-1:00pm - Matt Stanton’s Imaginatorium

Bring your kids for a delightful adventure with one of the nation’s most loved children’s book authors, and dive deep into the world of Matt’s imagination, searching for where the ideas for his bestselling book series Funny Kid, The Odds and Fluff really come from.

12.00pm-1.00pm - How The Bible Destroyed My Religion

Why are we here? Where did we come

from? What happens after death? These are questions that author John Erbacher has asked himself for decades. His pilgrimage took him across the world, exploring the foundations of faith, including a downward spiral into the dark realm of the occult. Join John as he uncovers his journey obsessively searched for a truth.

12:00pm-2:00pm - Storytellers Lunchwith Dr Tracy Westerman

Dr Tracy Westerman AM is a proud Nyamal woman from the Pilbara region of Western Australia and long been considered a critical thought leader in Aboriginal mental health, suicide prevention and cultural competency. Join us at this International Women’s Day event as we learn how she forged a path to better Indigenous mental health and suicide prevention.**SOLD OUT**

12:30pm-1:45pm - Workshop - How to

Write a Short Film with Craig Batty

This workshop will cover the foundational elements of screenwriting, using the short film as a way of understanding and applying these elements. It will cover key aspects of the craft such as character, story, theme, narrative structure and visual storytelling.

1:15pm-2:15pm - When John met Harry

When John Magee found himself face to face with a hairy ghost pipefish while diving on Hastings Reef, he knew immediately it was a rare opportunity. The image’s widespread acclaim served as the catalyst for Magee’s vision of creating a children’s book peppered with whimsy and educational value.

1:15pm-2:15pm - Women Sharing their

Voice with Peace Mitchell & Katy Garner

A captivating event showcasing Australian women who embody the power of storytell-

ing as authors and leaders. Take the chance to be uplifted and motivated by these extraordinary women as they celebrate the impact and importance of female voices on International Women’s Day.

2:00pm-4:00pm - Workshop - The Art & Science of Picture Books with Jacque Duffy

Thinking like an illustrator can assist you as an author to polish your work - even if you “can’t draw”. In this workshop, you will learn how to control the all-important word count, outline scenes of your story, breathe life into your pacing, and define the significant moments.

2:30pm-3:30pm - Rocking the Patriarchy

Get ready for bucket loads of feminist passion, straight talk, and mindset provoking, as Jilinda Lee challenges us on this International Women’s Day to abolish the only ‘ism’ still standing, still being socially accepted, significantly impacting women’s economic security.

2:30pm-3:30pm - Romancing the Page

Join ABC Far North’s Amanda Cranston in conversation with local authors Averil Kenny and Frances Dall’Alba, and author of the best-selling The Last Love Note, Emma Grey, as they discuss their passion and insights into the romance genre, and discuss why love stories continue to be the most purchased genre globally.

3:45pm-4:45pm - Himalayan Dreams: Empowering Women and Girls in Nepal Sonja Anderson facilitates this panel discussion with Kirsty, Som and Phulmaya about the quest for gender equality and the power of education to change lives.

3:45pm-4:45pm - Corey Tutt in conver-

sation with Jo Pyne

Join Trailblazing Indigenous STEM champion, Corey Tutt, in a captivating conversation with Joann Pyne, as they discuss Corey’s latest book ‘This Book Thinks Ya Deadly’ and his organisation ‘DeadlyScience’ which is delivering STEM education to our young people in an innovative way.

3:45pm-4.45pm - My Parents Are Ageing, What the Heck Do I Do?

Australia’s aged care system is designed to support older people to live well and independently at home for as long as possible, but the complexity of the system often prevents people accessing it. Join Coral Wilkinson as she guides you through the back door to Australia’s aged care system and reveals that by understanding how the system works, can give you the support you need, when you need it.

4.15pm-5.45pm - Workshop - The Business of Books - How to go from Manuscript to Bestseller

Whether you’ve written a memoir, a children’s book, a self-help guide, a business book, a novel or any genre at all you’ll need to be actively involved in the marketing and promotion of your book. Join trailblazing local sisters, Peace Mitchell & Katy Garner, as they deliver this engaging and interactive session outlining the steps to create a powerful business model for your authorship.

5:00pm-5:45pm - “I Don’t: The Case Against Marriage”

Clementine Ford’s latest book “I Don’t”: The Case Against Marriage, looks at the history of marriage and the idea that the institution of marriage is oppressive to women. She will be joined in conversation by Jilinda Lee as they explore the extent to which feminism still gives people the jitters in Australia.

9:00am-11:00am - Biggest Book Club

Literary lover, Fiona Sewell leads a vibrant panel consisting of Tracey Spicer, Ravi Shankar, Chris Hammer and Laurie Trott, for an animated discussion about Lola in The Mirror by Trent Dalton, Prima Facie by Suzie Miller, and Horse by Geraldine Brooks.

9:00am-10:00am - When Inspiration has Left the Building

Where do we go when we feel like we have nothing, when fear within our creative practice leads us to a place of ‘stuckness’, when we feel absolutely empty of creative inspiration? Why, to the world of RISK, of course! Join full-time writer and performance poet, Joel McKerrow, as he taps into your Creative Inspiration.

9:00am-10:00am - The Girl Who Created a Worldwide Phenomenon

Deb Gavarich’s debut, The Girl Who Left, tells the story of her Croatian mother, a ‘proxy’ bride living in the cane fields of Mossman. In her wildest dreams, Deb didn’t expect this story to incite the global frenzy that it has. John Mlikota of the Croatian Embassy joins Deb to explore why this story has such worldwide appeal.

9:00am-10:00am - Doll’s Eye

Join Sarah Coll in conversation with the author, Leah Kaminsky, as they delve into this intriguing story of love, loss and survival against a backdrop of war and displacement in 1930s Germany. This story is evocative and compelling, it brings into question the gap between what we see, and what we don’t.

9:30am-10:00am - Book Launch: The 9th District by Gillian Long

10:15am-11:15am - Gurril, Storm Bird

Join Trevor Fourmile for a holistic experi-

Program Guide

ence, combining the traditional elements of song, dance, and connections to country with the modern adaptation of these cultural narratives into written form. Participants will not only witness the beauty of Indigenous Australian storytelling but actively engage in the transformative process themselves.

10:15am-11:15am - Endo Days: Life, Love and Laughs with Endometriosis

One in ten people in Australia are living with endometriosis and countless others are supporting them, caring for them, championing various treatments and being impacted by this incurable condition. Comedienne Libby Trainor Parker brings vulnerability, humour, and kindness to this discussion about this debilitating, invisible disease.

10:15am-11:15am - Writing the Wet Tropics - Three Different Approaches

How does a writer craft a novel set in the Wet Tropics? Join a discussion by three local writers about their research and approaches. Elizabeth Smyth uses magic realism to explore human relationships with nature, Louise Henry draws on family history and historical artefacts to link the past and present, and Gillian Long employs an immigrant perspective to examine class and ideological issues of the 1930s.

10:15am-11:15am - “So You Want to Be a Writer?” The Path to Publication

So, you’ve written your book. Do you have a ‘next’? There are many ways to publish your book, and this panel will take a look at some of the things you need to consider getting your book on the market. Join a panel of industry experts as they discuss the next steps to getting your book on the shelves of the bookstore.

10:30am-11:00am - Book Launch: Christmastime Rhymes by Celia Berrell

11:15am-1:15pm - Workshop - Top 10 Tips to Make your Manuscript POP Bestselling fiction and non-fiction author Tony Park will show you how to diagnose what you need to do to your manuscript to get it ready for submission or publication, just by taking a single glance at a page you’ve written.

11:30am-12:00pm - Book Launch: Isherwood’s Australia by Alan Isherwood

11:30am-12:30pm - Man-Made: How the Bias of the Past is Being Built into the Future

The winner of 2023 Australian Business Book Awards for social responsibility and longlisted for the 2023 Walkley Book Award, Tracey Spicer’s latest book, Man-Made, exposes the next frontier of feminism. Dr Samantha Horseman from the Queensland AI Hub joins Tracey in a discussion that aims to open readers’ eyes to a transformative technological shift in society and give them the tools to make positive change.

11:30am-12:30pm - The Last Love Note

In 2016, Emma Grey suffered the unimaginable loss of her husband and soulmate, Jeff. She wrote her way through her grief, first in social media posts for friends, then in articles and finally in the contemporary novel, The Last Love Note, which has created an international outpouring of shared experience of loss and love and hope.

11:30am-12:30pm - Book Launch: Buried Secrets by Caroline de Costa

A woman lies dead after tumbling down the stairs of a Cairns townhouse. A young man is stabbed to death in a fight in his brother’s kitchen. It’s all in a day’s work for Detective Cass Diamond. And what seems at first separate incidents may have a thread linking them. Join Festival Director, Jules Steer in conversa-

tion with Caroline de Costa as they discuss the latest instalment in the Cass Diamond series.

11:30am-12:30pm - Jilya: How one Indigenous woman from the remote Pilbara transformed psychology

Dr Tracy Westerman’s message is simple: “There is nothing we, as Aboriginal people, can’t achieve if we believe in ourselves.” Dr Westerman’s achievements include leading way in the prevention of Indigenous mental health and suicide prevention and launching the Westerman Jilya Institute for Indigenous Mental Health and the Indigenous Psychology Scholarship Program. Be inspired by Dr Westerman’s mission to ensure greater skills capacity in our highest risk, remote communities that has captured the hearts and minds of Australia.

12:30pm-1:00pm - Book Launch: Top Tips for Interactive Skills in Business by Patricia Ryan

12:45pm-1:45pm - Growing Up Torres Strait Islander

What makes Zenadth Kes/Torres Strait unique? And what is it like to be a Torres Strait Islander in contemporary Australia? Join poet and author Samantha Faulkner, along with Aaron Fa’Aoso, Thomas Mayo, Jillian Bowie and Lenora Thaker as they showcase the distinct identity of Torres Strait Islanders through their diverse voices and journeys.

12:45pm-1:45pm - Beyond the Reef and Rainforest

Roger Osborne embarks on a literary journey that looks at the history of writing in our region. Discover its most prominent and lesser-known writers, and how our place, its events and characters inspired the many stories of the past and present. There’s so much more to discover beyond the reef and rainforest!

EDGE HILL STATE SCHOOL

12:45pm-1:45pm - I’d Rather Not …

Sometimes a book catches the spirit of the times. ‘I’d Rather Not’ is about work, escape and that something more we all need. Join Robert Skinner, one of Australia’s most wryly funny writers, in dissecting his original and utterly hilarious memoir of reaching for the stars while lying in a ditch.

12:45pm-1:45pm - The Seven

Chris Hammer, the bestselling author of Scrublands and The Tilt, joins Karen Viggers for a deep dive into his latest stunning thriller, The Seven, a compelling thriller filled with intrigue, emotional depth, and an evocative sense of place - where nothing is ever quite as it seems.

1:30pm-2:00pm - Book Launch: The Word Jar by Jacque Duffy

1:30pm-3:30pm - Workshop - How to Write a Psychological Memoir Memoir writing appeals to those who want to record their family’s history for future generations. But going a step further and psychologically analysing the story of your life can have surprising benefits. In this practical workshop, Peter Quarry will share the benefits of writing a psychological memoir, and provide handson techniques, based on his 2022 book, “If I Were You - A Psychologist Puts Himself on the Couch”.

2:00pm-3:00pm - Cloudland

Penny van Oosterzee’s latest offering, Cloudland, is a sweeping account of Australia’s wet tropical rainforest country, from deep time to the legendary time of Australia’s first peoples, from the killing times and maniacal destruction of the forests by European settlers, to the present time of growing awareness of forests as the life-force of the planet.

Program Guide

2:00pm-3:00pm - Loving My Lying, Dying Cheating Husband

Join Kerstin Pilz in conversation with Laurie Trott to discuss her memoir of a whirlwind romance gone wrong. Delivered with wisdom, humour, and unfailing kindness, this is a life-affirming tale of one woman’s search for better ways to love, grieve and forgive.

2:00pm-3:00pm - The Jaguar

Sarah Holland-Batt wrote her stunning new collection during and after the last years of her father’s life. With electrifying boldness, she confronts what it means to be mortal in an astonishing and deeply humane portrait of a father’s Parkinson’s Disease, and a daughter forged by grief.

2:00pm-3:00pm - Vendetta

Tony Park has worked as a journalist, press secretary, PR consultant and freelance writer. Such a variety of roles provided Tony with the ideal background for his current work as one of Australia’s leading fiction authors. Join Tony in conversation with Australian journalist, author, historian and screenwriter, Mark Dapin to explore his 21st novel, his wonderfully diverse career, and the alluring escapism of Africa.

2:30pm-3:00pm - Book Launch: Himalayan Dreams: The Story of Som Tamang by Kirsty Nancarrow

3:15pm-4:15pm - An Act Of Will: Taking Your Idea From Script to Screen

Join CQU’s Jan Cattoni as she gathers a panel of film industry professionals including Craig Batty, Jonathan Brough, Shontell Ketcell and Jannah Dryden, revealing the tips and tricks to help you succeed in the film industry.

3:15pm-4:15pm - Robert Runs

Mariah Sweetman’s great-great-grandfather, Robert ‘Goupong’ Anderson, once the fastest

man in Australia and world-record holder, grew up living within the harsh confines of the Deebing Creek Mission - a place run by the malevolent Boss Man. Robert Runs is a poignant look into the Deebing Creek Massacre and the tough reality of mission life.

3:15pm-4:15pm - Dr Ravi Shankar

Dr Ravi Shankar is an American editor, literature professor and Pushcart prize-winning poet, who has published more than fifteen books. Join Ravi in conversation as he discusses his newest offering Tallying the Hemispheres.

3:15pm-4:15pm - Muster Dogs: How Ten Dogs Stole the Hearts of Millions and Changed Lives Forever

ABC News Breakfast’s Lisa Millar joins Cairns’ conservationist, adventurer and author Tammie Matson, to explore the phenomenon that is Muster Dogs, and why a story about farm dogs warmed the heart of our nation.

3:30pm-4:00pm - Book Launch: Anomaly by Ali Lee

4:30pm-5:30pm - Writely and Wrongly

Have you ever wondered about all those weird spellings to be found in English, mixed up your stalactites and your stalagmites or pondered what it would take to stop people adding stray apostrophes to straightforward plurals? Join us as Jacinta Reddan talks to journalist and Writely or Wrongly author Joanne Anderson about the wild and ever-changing wonder that is English. Bring along your grammar gripes and settle in for an unstuffy look at language quirks mingled with tips on writing with greater clarity.

4:30pm-5:30pm - She and Her Pretty Friend

Throughout history, women’s relationships

have been downgraded and diminished. Instead of lovers, they are documented as particularly close friends; the type that made out, worked, lived, and are buried together. Join Danielle Scrimshaw in conversation as she explores women’s relationships through Australian history and aims to dispel this myth.

4:30pm-5:30pm - Non-Essential Work

Join the widely published essayist, poet and editor Omar Sakr, whose work has been translated into Arabic and Spanish, in conversation with Yvonne Petsruma, to discuss his latest collection of poetry.

4:30pm-5:30pm - Home to Bilo

In the small rural town of Biloela, loud thumps on the front door signalled the start of a fouryear odyssey that would catapult a young family into the heart of a National debate. Former Captain of the Socceroos and human rights campaigner, Craig Foster, joins author Rebeckah Holt and Priya Nadesalingam to discuss the powerful story of survival, humanity, and hope and how the persistence of a small town finally brought a family home to a place of healing.

4:30pm-5:00pm - Book Launch: Loving My Lying, Dying, Cheating Husband by Kerstin Pilz

3:45pm-5:30pm - Workshop - How to Write True Crime

In this workshop, crime expert and author of three Australian true-crime books, Dr Mark Dapin addresses the practical questions faced by first-time true-crime writers: finding inquest reports and court transcripts, visiting prisons, interviewing criminals and detectives, and figuring out who is telling the truth. And, perhaps most mportantly, how much danger are you getting into? Participants will feel informed, forewarned, forearmed, and ready to start on their true-crime project.

SATURDAY PROGRAM

9:00am-10:00am - Change Your Life in Ten Minutes

Everywhere you look someone is peddling a life-changing fad but frankly, who has the time? Kick off your Sunday morning with author Rosanne Michie in conversation with Jacinta Reddan, CEO of Advance Cairns, as they explore this simple, ingenious way to get results that have a grounding in science. Get rid of the dread, guilt, shame, self-sabotage and quest for perfection. Lower the bar and see how great your life is.

9:00am-10:00am - ARC Creatives Children’s Books

ARC Disability Services Creative Arts Coordinator, Karen Jackson joins debut authors, Emma Gibbs, Imogen Lambeth, Mel Egan, Sonya Doust, Adam Reddicliffee, Aaron Lee and Joy Nomani in a true celebration of diversity, inclusion, and creativity. This talented collective of adults living with a disability have written and illustrated their own children’s books with the support of ARC Disability Services, a RADF grant and Gloria Webb of Jabiru Publishing.

9:00am-10:00am - Averil Kenny in conversation with Amanda Cranston

Internationally published local author Averil Kenny joins ABC Far North’s Amanda Cranston to discuss her journey to publication, and life after getting published. In a warm and relatable conversation, Averil will detail her writing process, and offer tips for dealing with the seemingly interminable dry season, those necessary burn offs, and the unpredictable nature of the flood.

9:30am-10.00am - Book Launch: Isle of The Immortals DragonSkin III by Sam Woodgarth

9:00am-11:00am - Workshop - Developing 3D Characters with the Enneagram

Program Guide

The Enneagram is a model of the human psyche that breaks down personality into nine types and focuses on the way each type perceives and relates to the world. When applied to fictional characters, it offers them depth and authenticity. In this workshop, Ali Stegart will offer valuable insights to creating characters who are 3D - Deep, Dimensional and Dynamic.

10:15am-11:15am - How to Really Market Your Book (and not spend a fortune)

Kate Toon is an award-winning business mentor and digital marketing coach, as well as the author of popular business book ‘Six Figures in School Hours: How to run a successful business and still be a good parent.’ Ramp up your Sunday morning with this high-energy, refreshingly honest, practical session that will leave you with immediately actionable steps to

help your book get the readership it deserves.

10:15am-11:15am - Crystal Leonardi in conversation with Bec Dent

Join Cairns’ media personality Bec Dent in conversation with award-winning, best-selling author Crystal Leonardi as she reflects on her son’s brain cancer diagnosis in 2020. Crystal worked hard to overcome mental health battles and become a spokesperson for anyone willing to rise above the ashes of tragedy and survive.

10:15am-11:15am - Myfanwy Jones in conversation with Kate Mildenhall

Myfanwy Jones, the Miles Franklin-shortlisted author of Leap, joins Kate Mildenhall in conversation about her latest offering. Set on the banks of the Tinaroo Dam, Cool Water, is an unforgettable new cross-generational novel about fathers and sons, toxic masculinity and

the damage that can ripple through generations.

10:30am-11:00am - Book Launch: Yours as Ever, Sam by Mila Douglas

11:30am-12:00pm - Book Launch: Women Leading the Way by Peace Mitchell & Katy Garner

11:30am-12:30pm - Tuesday Evenings with the Copeton Craft Resistance

Debut author Kate Solly long dreamt of writing a novel, but as a mother of six, finding the time was a challenge. When her sister offered to hold her to account with a monthly deadline, Kate knew it was now or never. Nadia Mead leads this conversation to explore this heart-warming story of friendship in an imperfect world.

11:30am-12:30pm - Film Screening: The Do’s and Don’ts of …

In 2017, a team of creatives at ARC Disability Services made a short film “The Do’s & Don’ts of Dating” on a $20 budget. The film went on to be awarded the Audience Choice at the Cairns Understory Film Festival. It sparked a trilogy of films by the ARC Creative Ensemble, a talented collective of adults living with a disability, whose multi award-winning work spans across stage and screen. In this session, we will be screening all three award-winning short films.

12:30pm-1:00pm - Book Launch: TickleTouch an Environmental FairyTale by Chantal Munro

12:45pm-1:45pm - The Idea of Australia: A Search for The Soul of The Nation by Julianne Schultz with Jo Pyne

What is the ‘idea of Australia’? What defines the soul of our nation? Are we an egalitarian, generous, outward-looking country? Or is Australia a place that has retreated into silence and denial about the past and become selfish,

Alexis Wright

greedy, and insular? On the eve of this book being adapted for screen, join author, Julianne Schultz AM in conversation with Jo Pyne as they explore ways Australia can realise her true potential.

12:45pm-1:45pm - It Wasn’t Meant to Be

Like This

In Lisa Wilkinson’s first public appearance since 2022, Vanessa Allen discusses the story of how a young girl from Sydney’s western suburbs came to be such a force in Australian cultural life. This session will discuss the long-awaited autobiography from one of Australia’s most popular, much-loved, and enduring media stars.

12:45pm-1:45pm - Do Self-Help Books

Really Help?

Estimated to be worth over $20 billion dollars annually, the self-help industry churns out books, apps, videos and anything it can to permeate our conversations and culture. Why are these books so popular? And do they actually work? Psychologist Peter Quarry pulls back the curtain to expose how this massive industry functions, and the mixed evidence about its effectiveness. He describes the real concerns many mental health professionals have and gives practical tips on how to choose (and use) a self-help book to ensure you get optimum results.

1:30pm-2:00pm - Book Launch: Zozo the Zebra Finds Her Sparkle by Sarah Mallen

1:30pm-2:00pm - Workshop: WriteShare-Thrive: Mastering Blogging to Build Your Online Presence

Join local author and publisher, Crystal Leonardi, to discover how blogging can be your secret weapon to increasing your profile and online notoriety, ultimately driving more traffic to

your website. This workshop will equip writers of all ages and levels with the tools they need to thrive in today’s fast-paced digital landscape.

2:00pm-3:00pm - Everyone on this Train is a Suspect

Join Kate Solly in conversation with the Benjamin Stevenson, author of the award-winning stand-up comedian as they explore the unique pairing of mystery writing and comedy, a fusing that has thrilled readers of his previous novel, Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone, and how he has continued to pioneer this genre in his latest deliciously witty novel, Everyone on this Train is a Suspect.

2:00pm-3:00pm - Sunbirds: A Story of Love and War

Mirandi Riwoe is concerned with recreating histories too few of us know. Her new novel Sunbirds, depicts the intricate web of identities and loyalties created by war and imperialism, and the heartbreaking compromises that so often ensue. Mirandi joins Gail Sedorkin in conversation as they journey through time to West Java in 1941 when love and revolution are in the air - and war is on its way - to discuss colonialism and its reverberations.

2:00pm-3:00pm - Sidelines: When Parents Are Not Good Sports

Children’s sport can bring out the best in some kids, and the worst in some parents. Karen Viggers’ newest novel ‘Sidelines’ follows a talented, young football player as she grapples with anxiety and pressures from her overbearing father. Join Karen in conversation with Tara Diversi as they delve into the fraught family and team politics in the pressure cooker of teen sports.

2:00pm-3:00pm - Praiseworthy

Alexis Wright, the internationally acclaimed, award-winning author joins Jack Wilkie Jans

explore this mysterious but necessary human quality.

3:15pm-4:15pm - The Missionaries, the Mercenaries, the Murderers, and the Madmen

Join Aaron Smith in conversation with ABC Far North’s Amanda Cranston, as he unpacks his journey as a nonfiction storyteller. From the high cortisol addiction of journalism’s endless pursuit of the now that churns the 24-hour news cycle, to the stillness of the moment that long-form first-person prose allows - join Aaron as he explores the frontier of our understanding and comfort zone, stepping off into the void and being in the palpable now.

4:30pm-5:15pm - The Last Daughter

to discuss her latest offering, Praiseworthy, an epic set in the north of Australia, told with the richness of language and scale of imagery for which the author has become renowned.

2:30pm-3:00pm - Book Launch: Rise: Become Who You Were Born To Be by Tegan Rein

3:15pm-4:15pm - Bright Shining: How Grace Changes Everything

We live in an era when grace is an increasingly rare currency. The silos in which we consume information dot the media landscape like skyscrapers, and our growing distrust of the media, politicians and public figures has choked our ability to cut each other slack, to allow each other to stumble, to forgive one another. Join Amy Turnbull in conversation with the critically acclaimed, bestselling and multi-award-winning author of Phosphorescence, Julia Baird, as they

Brenda Matthews, a proud Wiradjuri woman, co-directed the feature documentary The Last Daughter, based on her book of the same name, which was released to critical acclaim in Australian cinemas and on Netflix in mid-2023. Join Brenda as she reveals her journey from being part of the stolen generation to becoming an Author, Speaker, Film Director and Storyteller in an inspiring testament to the power of healing and reconciliation.

4:30pm-5:15pm - Courting: An Intimate History of Love and the Law

Join FNQ Law Association President, Jerry Tucker in conversation with award-winning author Alecia Simmonds, as they uncover the hidden history of love and heartbreak in the archives of Australian law.

4:30pm-5:15pm - The Hummingbird Effect

Join Juanita Soper in conversation with author Kate Mildenhall to discuss this epic kaleidoscopic tale of four women connected across time and place by an invisible thread and their determination to shape their own stories.

Julia Baird

YEAR 7 INFORMATION

EVENING AT PEACE LUTHERAN COLLEGE

Tuesday 5th March 2024 |6pm Register at www.plc.qld.edu.au

Learn about the progressive steps that will support your child’s transition from primary into secondary school at Peace Lutheran College.

Open Classrooms | Introduction to Curriculum | Meet our Teachers

Why do we believe the transition process is so important?

✓ It supports the development of independence and organisation.

✓ It has a positive impact on achievement, engagement, and belonging.

✓ It creates solid foundations for future success.

The Peace Lutheran College transition process focuses on…

✓ It nurtures and supports students’ social and emotional development.

✓ Nurturing students whilst they navigate changes –new routines, different teachers, increased homework expectations.

✓ Cultivating independence through organisational skills.

✓ Supporting greater autonomy to motivate students to be responsible for their own learning.

✓ Student-staff connections via a dedicated team of experienced transition years specialists.

Businesswoman’s pitch for Douglas

Shire’s future in her heart

l MOSSMAN

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

THIRD generation business owner and active community member Pia McKeown has her eyes set on a Douglas Shire Council spot looking to improve water security, advocate for affordable housing and support small local businesses.

Born and raised in Mossman, Ms McKeown is a third-generation business owner, mother of three, and former vice president of the Douglas Chamber of Commerce.

Having grown up in the region and worked across retail and hospitality she says her deep connection and knowledge of the region gives her an advantage over other candidates.

“With my wealth of knowledge of this area, together with my business experience, I know I can make a difference,” she said.

“With Cyclone Jasper and its subsequent floods taking a huge toll on the shire, Ms McKeown said if elected she

would prioritise water security, disaster preparedness and affordable housing.

“With the recent cyclone and flooding in our shire and the ongoing issues with Cape Tribulation Road, we require council to address the problems in a timely manner and actively lobby the state government to get services back on track,” she said.

“The loss of water during the recent floods has made it obvious that there’s a need to improve our water infrastructure and treatment plant to avoid further issues in the future.

“And as we navigate through uncertainties with the potential closure of the Mossman Mill and face unforeseen challenges, it’s important that we work together as a community to find a great outcome for the survival of all businesses in the shire.

“There is a need for affordable housing and ensuring housing options are available for all income levels. Council should consider options to provide additional housing and should actively lobby the state government.”

Ms McKeown said transparency was at the core of her mission if elected for council.

“One of my key priorities is to enhance communication and transparency between the council and our residents. I will work tirelessly to keep you updated on important matters, listen to your feedback, and involve you in the decision-making processes that will shape our community’s future,” she said.

“I am confident that, with your support, we can build a community that thrives and prospers for generations to come.”

Experienced council leader

l MOSSMAN

WITH an extensive resume in the public and private sector, Mossman resident Terry Melchert believes he has what it takes to join the Douglas Shire Council.

Having resided in the shire for 31 years, Mr Telchert has strived to participate in everything that concerns residents, from being a member of the Mossman Rotary Club, working in accounting, audit and management within local government, to working with the Mossman sugar mill, he believes his experience makes him a standout among the 12 candidates.

“It’s time for a positive and professional change in council with a new team that will properly consult with the community on the services it wants and deliver them on time and in a cost effective and efficient manner,” he said.

“The shire simply cannot continue to have the delay and reduction in service provision, and the increasing council costs it has endured for the past four to seven years, especially with increasing cost-of-living pressures.”

Mr Telchert said his key priorities were water security and infrastructure, promotion of local tourism,

supporting the sugar industry and disaster preparedness.

“We need to ensure a reliable and resilient water supply and sewerage system which will provide reliable services through all types of weather events,” he said.

“We need a continuing high level of funding from council for tourism promotion. A while ago I had the privilege of working with tourism leader Kerrie Jamison in developing a

strategy which encouraged council to increase funding for tourism promotion by over 100 per cent.

“It’s important to support the sugar industry continuing in the shire, as far as is possible, and if not possible, support them into other agricultural production.

“We need to review disaster planning to identify the many things that need to be improved after the recent cyclone event ..."

Former Douglas shire chief executive Terry Melchert.

Businesswoman Pia McKeown.

supported by division 6 candidate Alan Benn, following weather concerns and lack of support.

Identified as the most important missing link in the city’s bike strategy several years ago, the proposed bikeway has been the subject of procrastination and stalling between the council and the Queensland Government.

Mr Benn said that he would not commit to supporting the project.

“The siting of the proposed pathway down along the creek on a cane headland does not meet the long-suffering community’s expectations of an all-weather, safe corridor for both the students and bikers in general,” he said.

“In its current form and lacking the support of many of the people involved right from the beginning of the project, I will not commit to supporting this project. What is the reasoning behind building a pathway along the banks of a creek that regularly floods for extended periods and involves the proposed construction of yet another bridge across Freshwater Creek which the current councillor herself describes as ‘prohibitably expensive’?”

Listening to residents

Independent division 7 candidate focused on community desires

l WHITFIELD

| Nick Dalton

INDEPENDENT candidate Anna Middleton wants the people of division 7 to tell her what they want done in the area.

She said instead of telling the people of division 7 what they needed, she would listen to the people.

Ms Middleton said people in her community wanted a strong and independent voice whose primary responsibility was to deliver for their division.

She said she was a strong community advocate with “passion, focus, and an ear to the ground”.

In her first tilt at local government, Ms Middleton said she had worked tirelessly to canvas, talk with, and listen to the people of division 7, an area that spanned Edge Hill, Whitfield, and parts of Manoora, Manunda, and Brinsmead.

She said, while the beautification of Edge Hill’s botanical precinct was exceptional, it did not wholly represent division 7, and she would work to create a more liveable community for all residents.

“From Centenary Lakes and Gardens through to Whitfield’s Springfield Crescent, Pease Street shops and services and industrial, Anderson Street, the

areas that make up Division 7 are as distinct as they are diverse,” Ms Middleton said.

She said her campaign was based on delivering a series of outcomes that fitted within three independent, albeit interconnecting pillars of infrastructure, liveability and crime.

“From overhauling division 7’s system of pathways for better connectivity to beautifying streetscapes and introducing lighting, security cameras and infrastructure that improves safety, there are many areas currently lacking and where urgent action is required,” she said.

If elected, Ms Middleton plans to be an on-the-ground councillor and meet the community monthly at Piccones IGA Pease St.

“It is this important grassroots, nuts and bolts engagement that will deliver on promises and tangible returns on rates’ investment that Division 7 deserves,” she said.

Ms Middleton once lived in a quaint canecutter’s cottage on Clarke Street, Manunda, and now has a family home in Whitfield, establishing a physio practice 15 years ago while involving herself in community work.

She will be available Saturday mornings outside Edge Hill Newsagency on March 2 and 9.

Division 7 candidiate Anna Middleton chats to resident Eve Elliott-Smith about the drain problems outside Whitfield State School. Picture: Supplied

Cr

Noli moved a motion at Tuesday’s monthly meeting for the urgent help, saying the road, especially through Noah’s Range, was not open safely for long enough.

She said the geotechnical work required was beyond the council’s capacity, council staff were weary and didn’t have the capabilities to do the job.

Cr Noli said the road was es-

sential for residents and was “the jewel in the Douglas crown”.

Mayor Michael Kerr said the council had been working with other councils and the state and federal governments to recover from the Cyclone Jasper flooding disaster.

He said the “exponential disaster” had caused enormous damage to the community and infrastructure and it was not simple to fix.

Cr Kerr said there were 30 slips upstream of the Rex Creek water intake which caused havoc with the infiltration systems whenever it rained.

He said a geotechnical firm specialising in mines had been hired to advise on the slip at Noah’s Range where there was a 40m crack above the road.

Cr Kerr said hundreds of workers could not be on site as the

slip was dangerous and could fall causing deaths. The hill had to be stabilised before any road works underneath could be completed.

A council report said Jasper had caused extensive damage to the landscape and left communities devastated in its wake.

“The landslips also caused major damage to both Whyanbeel water intake and Rex Creek water intake, which is used as the raw water supply for Mossman/Port Douglas water scheme.”

The report said the road network would not be fully functional until well into 2026 while the water issues across the shire would continue throughout 2024.

“The cost of repairs and recovery were to date at least $20 million,” it said. The figure will increase.

Read the full report on the Douglas Shire Council website via: https://bit.ly/3IcBqaP

The hill above Cape Tribulation Rd at the large Noah Range slip is not stable. Picture: Douglas Shire Council

Mountain of work still ahead for DSC

“MUD ARMY” SALUTES JUSTICE GROUP

MOSSMAN Elders Justice Group manager

Christine Lynch says it took a “mud army” to clean-up their Front Street office following the devastating flooding in December.

“We had my family, we had friends, colleagues, other service providers and our landlord came in with some helpers as well,” Christine recalled.

“We were very fortunate that we could get in and clean as soon as we could.

“I called them my mud army and it was an amazing mud army.”

Christine said the Mossman Elders Justice Group became a vital meeting place with so many other service providers closed down because of flood damage.

“Our mob knew they could come in here, knowing we could direct them for support,” she said.

“We also had a group of ladies from our women’s group that wanted to come in here, catch up and just hang out or have a cup of tea.

“They needed that support and friendly face given the trauma many had experienced.”

Christine’s can-do attitude following the floods epitomised why she was named the Douglas Shire Citizen of the Year.

“If I could, I would have taken my name off that certificate and put everyone else’s name on there as well because this is a team effort,” she said.

“I work with amazing elders and colleagues who’ve supported me from the day I started with the justice group. It’s like a family in here.”

The Mossman Elders Justice Group provides its clients with cultural support for court matters.

This includes presenting cultural reports at sentencing and bail applications, assistance to the courts in managing community-based offences, and networking to implement crime prevention initiatives.

Douglas Shire Citizen of the Year Christine Lynch received plenty of assistance in cleaning up the Mossman Elders Justice Group office following the flooding on Front Street in December.

Whether it’s restoring safe access to Noah Range (pictured), finding ways to improve water security or providing support for isolated communities, the Douglas Shire Council continues to lead the recovery process following TC Jasper and the floods that followed.

amount of work to do but we’re committed to rejuvenating our Shire.

with the latest information by visiting the Douglas Shire Council website or following us on social media.

Douglas residents changing water habits but Level 4 restrictions remain

WATER consumption in Port Douglas and Mossman has dropped by 26 per cent since Level 4 water restrictions were introduced across the Douglas Shire.

Douglas Shire Mayor Michael Kerr said residents should be congratulated for their community-minded approach to water following TC Jasper and the flooding that followed in December.

” A big thank you to those of you who’ve made small changes to your daily routines to ensure our reserves of drinking water remain as high as possible,” Mayor Kerr said.

“By taking shorter showers, packing away the garden hose and sprinklers and generally using water more sparingly, our community is making a big difference to water consumption.”

Level 4 water restrictions will remain in place for the foreseeable future as we take steps towards improving the Shire’s water security.

• Council, with the support of external engineers and water experts, has recently finalised a plan featuring options to reduce issues within the intakes and treatment plants

• An Adelaide University water analysis has confirmed the need to upgrade the network’s filtering cartridges

• Government officials will be undertaking field visits this week to assess and better understand the challenges facing our water network

• Ongoing pipe replacement and repairing of leaks

Overall, water production rates at the Mossman and Whyanbeel treatment plants have reduced due to an increased level of mud and debris in our water catchment.

WATER SECURITY FAQs

Why are there still problems?

“Whenever it rains the amount of sediment in the water catchment rises and our treatment plants have to work hard to produce clean drinking water,” Mayor Kerr said.

“We only have a few days’ worth of water in reserve so your ongoing help in following the restrictions makes an enormous difference.”

Creative Recovery Space set to

open

DOUGLAS Shire Council is set to open a new bi-weekly ‘Creative Recovery Space’ at the CWA Hall in Mossman from March 11.

The aim of this space is to provide community members with a range of creative activities and support services that foster connection, wellbeing, resilience building and healing in the aftermath of TC Jasper and the associated flooding event.

Arts, culture and creativity have a profound role to play in responding to the challenges raised when communities face adversity.

The creative recovery program will operate for six months and aligns to the broader objectives and aims of the human and social recovery principals of disaster recovery and resilience.

Activities will include a music program for kinder kids, placemaking art workshops, creative mending, weaving workshops, adult music jams, theatre sports, circus skills as well as off-site satellite events across the region.

Stay tuned via the Douglas Shire Council website or Facebook page as activities are announced or to find out more!

The record 4.2 metres of rainfall that has fallen since Tropical Cyclone Jasper has had a dramatic impact on our natural environment. The weather caused extensive landslips and as a result there is more mud and debris slipping into the water catchment than ever before. This is causing high turbidity which means the water treatment plants cannot run at normal production rates.

High levels of sediment in raw water has affected the water treatment processes by blocking filtration units, resulting in more frequent cleaning.

Although clean drinking water is still produced, the production is slowed

down or periodically shut down. During these events, the treated water reservoir levels drop, and if not addressed quickly, can lead to a complete water outage.

What is Council doing to improve water security?

Council has a greater emphasis on protecting the treatment plants’ filters from further damage

We have increased programs to include more regular cleaning of debris and silt from intakes and treatment plants

Investigations and works are underway for additional treatment processes, alternate water supplies and improvements to the water network

Why can’t untreated water be sent through the pipes when the treatment plants shut down?

Sending untreated water to the network would require prolonged boil water notices for the whole water supply. Additionally, this has potential to cause damage to water network and household appliances.

Why are Level 4 water restrictions still in place?

Water production rates at the treatment plants have reduced (because of the increased mud and debris). If the treatment plants are forced to shut down, the Council’s treated water storage will only last for a few days. Water restrictions are in place to prolong the treated water reservoir levels.

Council understands the pressure water restrictions put on our community and they will be lifted once the Shire’s water security has improved.

Are resorts and commercial operations facing the same water restrictions as households?

Yes. Council is regularly monitoring the water consumption of resorts and will be fining operators who are continually ignoring the restrictions in place.

A water treatment plant filtration unit affected with sediment from landslips

One of the landslips affecting Rex Creek intake Mud and debris clogging water treatment filters

Sediment build-up at the Whyanbeel intake.

A Creative Recovery Space will open in Mossman on March 11.

Native rescue heroics from Mossman sparky

BRYDIE Maro remains determined to open an emergency wildlife clinic after witnessing firsthand how TC Jasper, and the flooding that followed, impacted on local animals.

The Mossman rehabilitation volunteer was busy caring for exhausted, injured and displaced birds, snakes, bandicoots and other animals for weeks after the disaster struck.

“Initially we had a lot of birds in that had blown out of trees and then we had a run of seabirds that came in,” she recalled.

“I think they were all blown off course and they were just exhausted.

“Then there were the snakes as well.

“I think they’d just been washed out and then slid into people’s homes to try and find a dry spot.”

Brydie’s acts of kindness were not confined to the animal kingdom.

The electrician was also lending a hand around Mossman, even though her own home had been damaged.

“I knew my house had flooded but I thought, ‘Well there’s not much I can do about that now so I just left it for a couple of days,” she said.

“So, I went into town and did all electrical safety checks with a few of the businesses and the CWA to get them back up and running.”

Even before TC Jasper, Brydie saw the need for an emergency clinic for injured wildlife. To donate money towards the clinic, head to Brydie’s the GoFundMe page.

Head

https://www.carnivale.com.au

Mossman’s Brydie Maro is raising funds for an emergency wildlife clinic.

LAND SECURED FOR COW BAY

A NEW primary health care centre for residents north of the Daintree River is a step closer thanks to a land transfer agreement between Douglas Shire Council and Queensland Health.

The 10,000sqm site at Diwan, near the current Cow Bay Primary Health Care Centre, will be home to the new modern health facility, helicopter landing pad and staff accommodation.

The new centre will feature improved clinical spaces for visiting specialised staff, as well as the latest in medical technology so that health care workers can continue to deliver the best care possible.

Tender for the new primary health centre’s builder closed last month, with construction expected to begin later this year, finishing in early 2025.

The State Government remains committed to replacing and upgrading ageing health infrastructure across the state.

Health Minister Shannon Fentiman said she was pleased the government had this excellent news to share.

“The existing Cow Bay PHC does an incredible job serving its community, but we know it’s ageing, and the time is right to replace it and build a brandnew one,” Minister Fentiman said.

“These new works will ensure the new centre can meet modern clinical standards and together with new staff accommodation, help attract and retain key heath staff.

“It will also provide our hardworking health staff with the modern facility they deserve, to continue meeting the health needs of the Cow Bay community.”

Douglas Shire Council Mayor Michael Kerr the land settlement occurred on 31 January.

“The Cow Bay Health Care Centre currently provides a number of vital services to the community north of the Daintree River and we are pleased to have supported Queensland Health on this vital infrastructure upgrade.”

Cow Bay Primary Health Centre Director of Nursing Michele Lamond said the new centre will be delivered from a much more comfortable, larger and more modern facility that is wheelchair friendly.

“We have a close connection with our community, and we will continue to offer the same healthcare services to residents, but from a much nicer space with all the conveniences,” she said.

DEGARRA RECOVERY CONTINUES

DEGARRA’S new fleet of caravans are a symbol of resilience as the Douglas Shire continues to recover and heal following TC Jasper.

The Bloomfield River community was devastated by flooding in midDecember; the rapidly rising water leaving a staggering trail of mud and debris.

The survival story of Bill and Michelle Dunn made national headlines and understandably left the couple traumatised. When the river broke its banks, the pair swam out of their kitchen window, were clinging onto trees for hours, before being saved by a neighbour in a tinnie. A sense of relief was soon replaced by despair as the community was left isolated and with no support. The breaking point came when caravans, earmarked for Degarra, were delivered to Bloomfield, three hours walk from where flood victims were trying to salvage what they could from their destroyed

Rates are due but we are here to lend a hand

HOME and business owners have until next Wednesday (March 6) to pay their accounts.

Douglas Shire Council has endorsed a range of financial relief measures including rates assistance to support ratepayers who have been impacted by Cyclone Jasper and the subsequent flooding disaster event.

The financial relief measures for the year ending June 30, 2024, include:

1. Promote the Rates Financial Hardship Policy and provide assistance to affected ratepayers in completing the application for assistance.

2. Waived rates dishonour admin fees from 11 December 2023 to 31 January 2024 for Douglas Shire residential ratepayers.

3. Refund all venue hire fees, caravan park fees and ferry travel where cancellation is due to Cyclone Jasper flood disaster event for the period of 11 December 2023 to 31 January 2024.

4. Rent relief – may be provided, on request, for Council commercial

tenants suffering financial stress or hardship due to the effects of Cyclone Jasper flood disaster event, upon provision of sufficient evidence of this hardship (excluding peppercorn leases, Government entities) for the period 11 December 2023 to 10 January 2024.

5. Waive special refuse for commercial properties north of Daintree River from 11 December 2023 to 31 March 2024.

6. Waive roadside waste collection fees for commercial properties north of Daintree River from 11 December 2023 to 31 March 2024.

Water notices have also been issued and they have until March 26 to pay their accounts.

Anyone in the Douglas Shire who has not received their Rate or Water notices, or is having difficulty paying their account, is asked to contact Council immediately on Ph: 4099 9444.

Payments can be made via various methods, outlined on Council’s website.

properties.

Due to advocacy by Douglas Shire Council, the caravans were finally relocated to Degarra in mid-January. Finally, residents had a roof over their head and a place to

call home!

While Degarra is no longer grabbing headlines, it is still a priority for Council.

Over the past month we’ve ensured the vans are connected to

power and rainwater tanks. We’ve provided essential supplies to residents, continue to coordinate the removal of debris and the cleanup of the homes that survived the disaster.

GIVIT has partnered with the Queensland Government to manage donations of essential goods and services for people impacted by Ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper through the GIVIT Queensland Storms and Flooding Appeal.

100%

GIVIT is a national not-for-profit platform working in the Douglas Shire Community to facilitate the donation of essential items for people still doing it tough.

Douglas Shire Mayor Michael Kerr with Queensland Premier Steven Miles and Minister for Disaster Recovery Nikki Boyd.

But developer invited to make new application under current planning scheme ‘No’ to Fairmont extension

l PORT DOUGLAS

| Nick Dalton

A $300 million resort proposed for Port Douglas has hit another roadblock after Douglas Shire Council refused an application for an extension of four years for a material change of use on the Port Douglas Rd site.

The current extension lapsed on January 30 and follows the Planning and Environment Court throwing out Chiodo Corporation’s appeal for the Fairmont Resort on the old Havana site in November last year.

In September 2021, the council rejected the proposal by Chiodo due to the development being inconsistent with development outcomes sought by the planning scheme.

The appeal against council’s decision to refuse the development application was dismissed by the court on November 14.

However, the door hasn’t been closed to Chiodo.

A council report said that the developer could lodge a new application for the new development under the current 2018 co-

uncil planning scheme. All shire councillors accepted a council officer’s report rejecting the extension at the monthly meeting on Tuesday.

A council report said the council did not agree with the applicant’s contentions that the deve-

lopment approval was consistent with the current planning scheme.

“The inconsistencies with the 2018 scheme include, but are not limited to,

• a lack of disability access

• a lack of disability parking

• insufficient provision for par-

king

• insufficient private open space

• inappropriate utilisation of the public road verge of landscaping

• insufficient consideration of infrastructure services.

The Planning and Environ-

ment Court described the proposed development as “not inappropriate because of a modern design, but because that design is wildly discordant with the character of Port Douglas”.

“It has the potential to dimi-

nish the experience of those visiting Port Douglas. What rings through with great finality is the importance of protecting what is unique and special to Port Douglas’ character.”

At the time Douglas Shire

Mayor Michael Kerr said he was pleased with the decision.

“This is a landmark case that reinforces the type and form of development that is appropriate,” he said.

“The refusal of the development application reinforces the importance of the character and sense of place. We remain committed to improving and enhancing the shire and have already approved a number of developments that fit within the requirements of council’s planning scheme.”

Developer Paul Chiodo’s plans for the Fairmont Resort included a First Nations design element which would have been underpinned by “modern Indigenous characteristics”. It included several restaurants and bars, a decadent day spa, a treetop walk, panoramic conference and wedding facilities – all designed around resort-style pools.

An artist’s impression of the $300m Fairmont Resort at Port Douglas which has had a planning extension refused. Picture: Supplied

Cheers to new city brewery

Boutique beer outlet named after crystal clear waters of Copperlode Dam

l EDMONTON

COPPERLODE Brewery has been officially christened.

Brewery chief executive officer and head brewer Morgan Hind said he was pleased the brewery was officially opened on Wednesday last week, “especially considering the current state of independent beer in Australia”.

“Our industry is going through an upheaval at the moment. Many of the best-known independent breweries are going into administration or closing down permanently,” he said.

“There’s a multitude of reasons why that could happen but we are not experiencing any of them.

“The ‘only brewery southside’ is happy to say they have been welcomed by locals looking for a place to call their own for knock-offs Thursday and Fridays and weekend catch ups.”

Mr Hind said the name was a nod to Copperlode Dam, a local identifier and icon in the region.

“Copperlode Brewery sourced fresh ingredients, including the crystal-clear water from the dam to make the finest quality craft beer,” he said.

“One of the biggest compliments received from opening a few weeks ago is that the live music scene fills a massive void on the southside. People

also enjoy the fact there are no TVs and no pokies which means they can reconnect, sit and catch up and have a conversation and socialise over great beverage offerings for all palettes.”

Leichhardt MP Warren Entsch, who co-opened the brewery with Mulgrave MP Curtis Pitt, said Mr Hind and his team had a lot of courage and confidence to open a craft brewery.

“Opening a boutique brewery when so many are shutting down … but you’re smart in what you’re doing. This is the only one on the south side,” he said.

“The atmosphere, the character of the venue, the nod to Copperlode, where the water comes from, is so crystal clear without needing to be filtered.”

Mr Pitt said it was “a terrific investment into the south side”.

“As you have heard, this is the growing part of Far North Queensland and is the place to be,” he said.

Mr Pitt said after visiting the brewery for the first time “I was just blown away. Not only is the beer obviously fantastic but the combination of having trivia nights, the food vans, live music, genuinely lovely people I look around and see so many local southsiders that I’ve known for a long time, so it’s really a great opportunity to do this.”

Mayor Terry James, Mulgrave MP Curtis Pitt and Leichhardt MP Warren Entsch toast the new Copperlode Brewery.

l

FOLLOWING the reveal of the State Government’s Homes for Queenslanders plan, the Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ) is eager to see the missing details now the announcement dust has settled. While the detail to date is light, the REIQ understands that the $3.1 billion-dollar five-pillar plan includes:

• Building more homes, faster

• $350m incentivising infill fund, pilot ground lease model, state facilitated development team, inclusionary planning pilot program

• Supporting Queensland renters

• $160m renters relief package, more RentConnect officers, portable bond scheme, code of conduct

• Law changes regarding rent bidding, installing modifications, entry notice periods, application forms/ platforms, reletting costs,

fee-free payment options

• Help first homeowners into the market

• Support for First Nations people, Queensland home finance loan pilot program, administering Federal Government’s Help to Buy Scheme

• Boost social housing Big Build

• $1.25bn plan to deliver 53,500 social homes by 2046

• Work towards ending homelessness

• $390m in additional funding for homelessness services, two-worker model, independent sector review, eight new youth foyers.

REIQ chief executive officer Antonia Mercorella said the institute was supportive of the overarching principles of the plan but it was still unclear on how the ambitious social housing build goal would be reached.

“The principles are very sound, especially the points that are focused on ramping up su-

pply, and if it can be delivered there’s no doubt it would put Queensland in a much better position than it is in today,” she said.

“Construction of more social housing is fundamentally important and I think we all want to see our woeful social housing build and growing social housing waitlist turned around.

“However, we’re calling the government to reveal the detail – the roadmap that will take us from here to there, because we’re struggling to understand how it will be different from past targets that have fallen short.

“Yes, we want to be ‘ambitious’, we want to remain hopeful, but without the ‘how’ it’s hard to see these targets being hit.”

Ms Mercorella said the REIQ welcomed the announcements relating to the renters’ relief package, additional staff support, additional funding for homelessness services, the independent sector review and the youth foyers.

RACQ 2023 report finds most regional Queenslanders paid more for petrol

Fuel not so costly

l COST-OF-LIVING

| Nick Dalton MOTORISTS across most regional Queensland towns paid more for unleaded petrol in 2023 than ever before, according to RACQ’s Annual Fuel Price Report.

The club’s analysis revealed eight out of the 10 largest regional centres posted record high average unleaded prices for 2023, with Toowoomba emerging as the most expensive, charging 187 cents per litre (cpl).

RACQ’s principal economic and affordability specialist Dr Ian Jeffreys said Bundaberg motorists got the best deal for fuel.

“Despite reaching a record price for unleaded petrol, Bundaberg was still the cheapest large regional centre with drivers paying 178.6cpl in 2023,” Dr Jeffreys said.

“Only Cairns and Mackay didn’t break records for average unleaded prices in 2023.”

Cairns was 182.3 for unleaded and 202 for diesel.

Dr Jeffreys said international

factors were the biggest contributor to higher prices. “The war in Ukraine, OPEC+ production cuts and conflict in the Middle East pushed up global oil prices. That, paired with a weaker Australian dollar, saw petrol prices surge across Queensland in 2023,” he said.

Interestingly, Dr Jeffreys said the average indicative retail margins were significantly low across regional Queensland.

“The indicative retail margin estimates how much service stations charged motorists on top of the wholesale price they purchased the fuel for,” Dr Jeffreys said.

“Across nearly all of Queensland’s large regional centres, motorists were paying around 5cpl or less in indicative retail margins.

“It’s encouraging to see that fuel companies did not use international factors as an excuse to boost profits from regional motorists.”

For more details read RACQ’s full 2023 Annual Fuel Price Report on RACQ’s website at https://bit.ly/3wD99Yc

Regional Queenslanders paid more for fuel last year except for those in Cairns. Picture: Julia Gomina/iStock

Guide

Mazda revs up rotary engine

Japanese car maker brings 36 engineers together to develop unique powerplant

l NEWS

| Nick Dalton

MAZDA is accelerating its research and development of rotary engines (RE).

The ‘RE Development Group’ has been reinstated at Mazda’s powertrain development division with the aim of continuing to evolve REs to be used as generators, and will conduct research and development in areas such as regulatory compliance in major markets as well as the application of carbon-neutral fuels.

Chief technology officer Ichiro Hirose said in Mazda’s history, the rotary engine was a special symbol of ‘our challenger spirit’.

“We are deeply grateful to all those who have supported RE to date, and are pleased to announce the rebirth of the organisation that develops RE, the engine that has been loved by customers around the world,” he said.

“For the last six years, RE engineers have been part of the engine development organisation where they engaged in the development of state-of-theart internal combustion engine functions as well as the ultimate improvement in efficiency.

“Those engineers have broadened their perspective

beyond the boundaries of engine systems, and have trained themselves to master the ‘model-based development,’ which is one of Mazda’s engineering strengths.

“This time, 36 engineers will gather in one group to make a breakthrough in the research and development of RE. In the age of electrification and in a carbon-neutral society, we promise to keep delivering attractive cars that excite customers with our ‘challenger spirit’.”

The rotary engine is a powerplant with a unique structure that generates power by rotating a triangular rotor.

Mazda first installed a rotary engine in the Cosmo Sport in 1967, and for many years since then, Mazda has been working to improve performance in terms of output, exhaust-gas purification, fuel economy, and durability as the only automobile manufacturer to mass-produce rotary engines.

In June 2023, the company resumed mass production of vehicles with rotary engines for the first time in about 11 years since the end of production of the Mazda RX-8 in 2012.

Currently, the Mazda MX30 e-SKYACTIV R-EV, the 12th model that mounts a rotary engine, has been introduced in Japan and Europe.

The Mazda MX-30 e-SKYACTIV R-EV is only available in Japan and Europe. Insets: The electric drive and rotary unit of the MX-30 e-SKYACTIV R-EV.

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

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Call Lisa on 07 4031 7678 or email admin@cairnslocalnews.com.au

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Friday March 1st

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

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

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

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

FNQ Markets

Saturday March 2nd

Atherton: Our Saviour Lutheran Church, 6:00-12:00

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

Gordonvale Cottage Markets: Norman Park, 07:00-12:00

Koah: Koah Hall, Koah Rd, 09:00-13:00

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

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

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

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

Sunday March 3rd

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

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

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

Mission Beach Markets: Opposite Hideaways, 07:00-12:00

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

Rusty’s

Brothers start kicking goals

l RUGBY LEAGUE

| Nick Dalton

AN $11 million transformation of Brothers Cairns’ Manunda rugby league clubhouse and ground is paving the way forward for the sporting code.

Demolition of the 40-year-old clubhouse and facilities started last week at Stan Williams Park.

Club chairman Stephen Widt said the project had been on the books since 2019 but attempts to secure government funding had been unsuccessful.

He said the club was going it alone for stage one of the development using savings and loans.

Mr Widt said on the ground floor would be four changing rooms (doubling capacity), indoor and outdoor seating of about 500 seats, conference and meeting rooms, a gym, rooms for referees and first-aid as well as a bar and kitchen. Upstairs would also be a bar and kitchen and more viewing areas.

He said hopefully the second stage of about $6m, including more changing rooms, more lighting and seating, plus ground improvements, could be funded by government grants.

The club submitted an application for a $15m upgrade to the Federal Governments Growing Regions Program but was unsuccessful in obtaining any funds.

“It was hard at the time, but it strengthened our resolve to proceed. The project has had some items removed due to budgetary constraints, but we will continue to work hard with all stakeholders including govern-

ment to continue to improve on what will be a first-rate facility for the football community at large including all the schools and various other sports that utilise our grounds,” Mr Widt said.

“We are a community club committed to using locals in Kier constructions and this project has such wider benefits at a time when Cairns is doing it tough,” he said.

Construction is expected to start early next month for completion in March next year.

Temporary facilities, including changing rooms and temporary lights for training, have been established on the Behan St grounds.

Keir Queensland Design and Construct are the main contractors.

Director Royce Slade said at the peak there would be 40 workers employed on site.

“We are engaging 15-20 local subbies,” he said.

Mr Slade said the firm had also involved sub-contractors who had a long association with Brothers.

Club stalwart Stan Williams, who spearheaded the original building opened in 1983, said it was “sad’ to see demolition start.

He said the original clubhouse and facilities cost $150,000 in materials with club members and volunteers, such as carpenters, tilers, plumbers, painters and roofers, providing their labour for free.

“It’s sad to see it being knocked down but it’s going to be really good (the new building),” Mr Williams said.

Sport Results

WEST CAIRNS MEN

Tuesday, February 20th.

Jackpot bowls. Winners; Wayne Vella, George, Johno. R/U; L. Indiens, R. McCallum, J.

Bent. Thursday, February 22nd.

Thirsty Thursday. Best players; Dawn, Gavin Nicholls, Leon King. Friday, February 23rd. Friday night scroungers. Winner; Terry. R/U; Irene. Club Championship. A Pairs. George

A, Yakka def. Wally E, John Bent 24-12. F. Clarke, K. Rich-

ardson def. B. Myles, A. Paraha 26-24.

MOSSMAN MEMORIAL BOWLS

Saturday, February 24th. Jackpot bowls. Winners; Bruce Lester, Richard Anderson, Bill Allison def. Terry Richards, Daryl Hoskins, David Johnson + 20. R/U; Bill Smith, Troy Churchill def. John Hopkins, Bob Carroll + 9. Sas, David White, Derek Franklin def.

Ron North, Peter Worley, Brian King + 9. Col Widdows, Steve Hudson, Joe Girgenti def. Ted Holmes, Peter McGrory, Mike Sims + 3. Dave Blain, Steve Fuller, Nev Fletcher def. Ranald Edwards, Wayne Parks, Peter Gorsuch + 3.

EDGE HILL BOWLS

Thursday, February 22nd. Social bowls. Ladies B Singles final. Winner; Deb Dall’ Alba. R/U; Lorraine King. Consistency Singles. Winner; Elaine Whitehead. R/U; Lorraine King. Mixed Social Bowls. Jill Alexander-Sachse, Steve Hen-

son def. Elaine Whitehead, Peter Whitehead 19-10. Tuesday, February 20th. No games due to heat. Wednesday February 21st. Washed Out. Saturday, February 24th. Winners; Jill Alexander Sachse, Elaine Whitehead, Lou Pomroy def. Peter Whitehead, Bruce Moseley, Gary Pomroy.

BROTHERS EDMONTON BOWLS

Ladies section, results Thurs, Feb 22 champion pairs: Populin, L. Ceely def. C. Morris, S. Bates. Winners of the day C. Populin, L. Ceely. R/up : N. Kina, M. Girardi, L. Hoskins.

Men’s section, results Sat, Feb 24, winners: A. Crittenden, R. Moody, D. Quinn. R/up: Q. Bates,K. O’Halloran, M. O’Halloran.

MARLIN COAST BOWLS

Tuesday, February 20th. Tuesday morning bowls. Winners; Robyn, Christine. R/U; Peter, Barb. Tuesday afternoon Men’s triples. Winners; rags, Danny, Ross. R/U; Greg, Bob, Eddie. Tuesday night bowls. Spider. Winners; Hamish, Keith, Deb, Jason, Paper, Mick, Chriss, Ross. Wednesday, February 21st. Wednesday

mixed bowls. Winners; Colleen, Rick. R/U; Valena, Jean. Thursday, February 22nd. Thursday Mixed triples. Winners; Bernie, Eddie, Clive. R/U; Olga, Val, Christine. Saturday, February 24th. Saturday Morning Scroungers. Winner; Brad L. R/U; Olga. Club Championships. Ladies Pairs. L Roberts, L McCarthy def. C Scott, G Andersen 21-20.

GORDONVALE BOWLS

Thursday, February 22nd. Winners; J Jackson, R Moody, L Sonter. R/U; G Spicer, F Rich, M Buckler.

Artist impressions of the new Cairns Brothers Rugby League Club’s $11 million upgrade at Stan Williams Park. Pictures: TPG Architects

Pitching for more players

Pathways open for junior baseballers with special training program tomorrow

Supercars race in Townsville

l MOTOR RACING

TICKETS for the 2024 NTI Townsville 500 have gone on sale, enabling fans to book their seats for the Repco Supercars Championship’s visit to far north Queensland in July.

This year marks the 15th anniversary of the inaugural Townsville Supercars event in 2009, and will include the 40th Supercars race on the streets around Reid Park.

The NTI Townsville 500 will feature two 250km races across the July 5-7 weekend, with the Sunday race being the 40th Supercars race held at the venue.

Last year’s event saw two first-time Townsville winners split the weekend’s honours, with Toowoomba’s Will Brown winning the Saturday race

followed by Dick Johnson Racing’s Anton De Pasquale taking the top step on Sunday.

“The NTI Townsville 500 is a favourite stop on the calendar for teams and fans, and serves as one of the marquee events of our season,” said Supercars chief strategy and revenue officer Mark Pejic.

“The stunning street circuit at Reid Park is one of the best in the world and always produces fantastic doorto-door racing. Couple that with the thrilling attractions and activations around the circuit and add in Townsville’s beautiful July weather, and it’s no surprise why the NTI Townsville 500 is the biggest sporting event in north Queensland,” he said.

The NTI Townsville 500 has the impressive status of being run con-

tinuously since its inaugural event in 2009, held on a 2.86km hybrid circuit which is part permanent and part city streets.

The championship’s visit to far north Queensland is part of its usual mid-season northern swing, and this year marks the midway point of the 2024 Supercars season.

“We are excited to continue our support of the NTI Townsville 500 in 2024,” said NTI head of marketing Jason Kibsgaard.

The NTI Townsville 500 takes place July 5-7 on streets around Townsville’s Reid Park. Tickets to the highly-anticipated event can be found via the Repco Supercars Championship website via https://bit. ly/42RsK39 or through Ticketek at https://bit.ly/3uNrBwR

l BASEBALL

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

MORE opportunities are in store in 2024 for young baseballers in Far North Queensland as the latest round of the Emerging Athlete Program (EAP) is heading to Cairns this weekend for its first session of the year to create more professional pathways for junior athletes into baseball.

Ahead of the beginning of the season in April, the first EAP session of the year for Cairns’ baseball clubs is kicking off this March 3, at Bear Park in Brinsmead, to develop basic skills for young baseball players ages 10-18 and introduce them into more opportunities within the game.

After a successful season of baseball for the junior baseball clubs, the Cairns CubS, the Reds and the Cairns Dodgers, Anthony Van Fleet, regional director of coaching for NQ Baseball, said he hoped to see more juniors joining the EAP.

“The program will have 10 sessions throughout the year.

EAP is developed by Baseball Queensland in Brisbane and we deliver it locally for our juniors to develop and hopefully represent the north in state finals and further in the future,” he said.

“We have no participant limit, the more players the merrier, as

long as you’re part of a baseball club and you’re between ages 10-18, no minimum skillset is required.

“We use our early sessions to develop baseline skills and over the 8-10 weeks of the program we work on the specific skillset for the new athletes, and for those who have been in baseball for a number of years, working towards a higher level.”

Mr Van Fleet said programs like EAP were critical in regional areas like the Far North to provide better outcomes for athletes looking at a future in baseball.

“EAP is very important because regional baseball has a lot of challenges being a niche sport and being far from Brisbane, so it gives our players a connection to that higher skill and better coaching so that we develop as a region but also they get more opportunities at a higher level of baseball,” he said. “This is a great opportunity to build their skills, whether you’re a new player or an experienced one and make connections with Baseball Queensland and other development programs to aim for higher baseball goals and develop more opportunities, so try out.”

Cairns Junior Baseball League are still holding ‘come and try’ sessions for those interested in trying out ahead of the beginning of the season in April 20, for more information visit their Facebook page

Sports funding available

l COUNCIL GRANTS

CASSOWARY Coast community and sporting organisations are invited to apply for up to $5000 in funding support with a new round of regional council grants open for application.

The newest support stream, ‘The Sports Club and Active Recreation Insurance Support Program,’ has been introduced to support eligible clubs with public liability insurance costs.

A council spokesman said the program was designed to accept ongoing

applications of $250, offering responsive support throughout the year.

“Applicants under this program are also eligible to explore additional funding streams within the comprehensive community grants and support program,” he said.

“Up to $5000 is available to successful applicants of the community and economy grant program stream to support both minor and major community and economic projects.

“The flexible structure allows for projects ranging from sporting events

and physical activity classes to economic development initiatives like workshops and strategic plan development to be eligible for support.”

To assist local organisations with understanding their eligibility for this grant round, the council is hosting community information sessions at the at Mission Beach Library on March 6 10am-2pm and Tully Civic Centre on March 13 10am-2pm. For further information about call 1300 763 903 or go to https://bit.ly/4bWS7EU

Cairns Junior Baseball League cohort of the 2023 emerging athlete program with NQ Baseball coach Anthony Van Fleet. Picture: Supplied

Cairns Brothers Rugby League chairman Stephen Widt (left), Keir Queensland director Royce Slade and Brothers’ stalwart Stan Williams on

clubhouse upgrade. Picture: Nick Dalton