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l Time Out

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Team Eden makes pitch for your vote

Packed agenda for tropical writers festival

AFL Cairns season ﬁxtures revealed

Page 3

Page 15

Page 26

Unsung hero of Cairns

Queen Elizabeth II is due back in Cairns in March, October and November as part of a bumper cruise ship schedule this year. Picture: Ports North

Citizen of year Jacqui Backhouse.

l CAIRNS REGION A TORRES Strait Islander woman passionate about improving the outcomes for children is the 2024 Cairns citizen of the year. Jacqui Backhouse was given the honour yesterday in recognition of more than 30 years of helping at-risk children. At a time when most people are enjoying retirement, Ms Backhouse has continued to commit her time and efforts to supporting students and their families, primarily through her role as a teacher aide. Engaged in the role at several schools in Cairns for the past 30 years, she guides and mentors troubled and high-risk youths, including some who display anti-social behaviours and struggle with long-term issues at home and at school. She was one of several honoured at yesterday’s Cairns citizen of the year awards. CONTINUED PAGE 6

No.1 for cruises Aussies rate Far North as best place to visit on coastal liners

l FAR NORTH CAIRNS and Port Douglas are rated the two top destinations in Australia where Australians plan to cruise to this year. One in four Australians will go on a cruise this year, according to new research from the Tourism and Transport

Forum (TTF) Australia, with figures more than tripling since last year. A national survey of 2000 Australians, conducted by Pure Profile, reveals the percentage of Australians surveyed who plan to cruise in 2024 has risen from seven per cent to 26 per cent in the past 12 months, despite cost-of-living pressures.

TTF CEO Margy Osmond said it was welcome news for the tourism industry, with cruise ships increasing tourism spending onshore. North Queensland was number 1 at 25 per cent (Cairns nine per cent, Port Douglas eight per cent and Airlie Beach eight per cent), followed by Tasmania

(17 per cent), Sydney (12 per cent). Brisbane rated just four per cent. “It’s a great result for north Queensland tourism operators, who lost revenue from the devastating floods and cyclone over the Christmas and New Year period,” Ms Osmond said.

CONTINUED PAGE 2

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New cruise ships to Cairns marking exciting future for tourism l CAIRNS REGION | Nick Dalton

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THE visit for the first time of a Virgin Voyages cruise ship to Cairns marked a turning point for the city’s industry in more ways than one with the Resilient Lady set to return three times this year. Ports North chief executive officer Richard Stevenson said it was “a special moment” for Cairns when the vessel spent the day in the city late last year. “It’s a new customer, it’s the Virgin brand which is very vibrant and a different product (adults-only),” he said. “To see it in Cairns was pretty spectacular and it’s bright red stern.” Mr Stevenson said Virgin Voyages were making a “pretty big statement” by bringing the ship to Australia and Cairns. “It reinforces Cairns and Australia as a very desirable cruise destination and for Virgin to put a toe in the water,” he said. Mr Stevenson said it was also the widest cruise ship to enter the port, with a beam of 38m. “The marine pilots did a lot of work to assist and make the

Scenie Eclipse 2 makes its maiden voyage to Cairns in April, with well-heeled passengers.

operation comfortable for the captain,” he said. The ship with 2700 passengers is due back in April and twice in December this year. Mr Stevenson said it was a busy November for the port, with 15 visits, the most of any month in 2023. In one week – November 2730 – six ships docked, includ-

ing Resilient Lady. On November 27 the Coral Princess and Carnival Luminosa – totalling 600m long and with more than 4000 passengers – docked and the following day there was Pacific Encounter, Viking Orion and Coral Discoverer in port with more than 4000 guests. Next year 93 visits are on the schedule, including maiden

voyages of Brilliance of the Seas on February 19, Viking Sky, Azamara Onward, Costa Deliziosa and Scenic Eclipse 2. Mr Stevenson said Costa Deliziosa – scheduled for March 16 with 2826 passengers – was a sister ship to Carnival Luminosa, also visiting five times next year. He said Viking Sky (930

passengers on February 21) and Azamara Onward (670 on March 7) drew well-heeled customers who were big spenders on products and tours. Mr Stevenson said Scenic Eclipse 2 (228 on April 30) was “quite spectacular, while the unique The World was returning in September after a few years. It was privately-owned with individuals having their own apartments, administered by a body corporate which decided where the vessel visited. He said the last time The World came to Cairns for one overnighter it stayed for three days. Mr Stevenson said Queen Elizabeth was due to make three stops but that could change with alterations to itineraries. He said January, February and March were busy with 11 stops in the first month, 11 in the second and 20 in March – the biggest month of the year. Regular visitor, Pacific Encounter, was back on Tuesday this week, returning six more times this year. Ship visits off Yorkeys Knob total 16 this year and off Port Douglas, 26 times.

Cairns and Port Douglas top of pops for Aussie cruisers FROM PAGE 1

“The region is well and truly open for business and still the most appealing destination for cruise holidays. “Cruises offer great value for money, which Australians care about now more than ever. “Combined with all the ex-

citing new experiences available in Australia’s cruise sector, that’s why we’re seeing cruising take off. “We need government to work with industry to further support the cruise sector, to make sure the increased appetite for cruise holidays can be met and to help boost the

economy.” Millennials and Gen Z passengers are driving the increased demand, with 35 per cent of Australians under-35 planning to cruise this year, versus 18 per cent of over 65s. More than a quarter of Australians are also ‘cruise curious’, meaning they have never

been on a cruise before but are now considering it. The most ‘cruise curious’ Australians are those under age 35, and residents in the Northern Territory, followed by New South Wales. “Any misconception cruises are only for retirees and families is outdated. This year,

more young Australians will enjoy a cruise catered to their preferences,” Ms Osmond said. “From Michelin-star restaurants and yoga, to tattoo parlours, free Wi-Fi and other services for remote workers, there’s something for everyone,” she said.

PAGE 2 Cairns Local News, Friday, February 2, 2024

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Team Eden makes its pitch to voters at campaign launch today

City needs to ‘mature’

l CAIRNS REGION | Nick Dalton CAIRNS regional mayoral hopeful Cr Amy Eden wants the city to “mature” and become a destination that never sleeps. At her Team Eden campaign launch this morning, she reveals her vision of Cairns opening longer and embracing a true nightlife. “Ever wonder why two Australians in three live in our capital cities?,” she said. “It’s all about jobs. Jobs that pay serious money, with serious career paths and mouth-watering opportunities for promotion. “After 12 years of a Unitycontrolled Cairns council, it’s clear our tourism and retail sectors cannot alone fuel the growth we need to become a truly great Australian city. “Team Eden – our six divisional candidates, plus me as mayor – believe it’s time for Cairns to mature. “We have too few 21st century jobs, Some – but never enough – high-powered businesses in cutting edge, big growth areas of the future economy we need to have. “Many of our restaurants are closed by 9pm – even in our tourist mecca northern beaches. “Much of our CBD is deserted by nightfall. Safety, is a part of that, which I’ll talk about in more detail over the coming weeks. “So, what are we going to do? Everything possible to ensure museums, galleries and

Local

Briefs

l CHINA FLIGHT

THE first China Eastern Airlines flight MU571 from Shanghai arrived at Cairns Airport shortly before 11.30am yesterday, kicking off a series of seasonal flights during the Chinese New Year period. Thousands of Chinese tourists are expected to welcome the Year of the Dragon in Tropical North Queensland this year.

l PARK CLOSED

BARLOW Park at Parramatta Park is temporarily closed to the public due to urgent repairs to the athletics track. A Cairns Regional Council spokesman said staff had started repairing the track, which is expected to reopen by March 1, weather permitting. “We apologise for any inconvenience,” he said. Check the Barlow Park Cairns Facebook Page for updates on the repair progress and for the latest information on reopening.

l SHIRE RELIEF Team Eden candidates are (from left) Emma Gelling (division 5), Ian Moller-Nielsen (division 7), Kesa Strieby (division 2), Shane Trimby (division 6), Amy Eden (mayoralty), Jo Piggott (division 8) and Trevor Tim (division 4). Picture: Supplied

tourist venues, for example, are open until much later at night. Ditto for bars and restaurants. “We’re going to look at night-time childcare to make it easier for key front line hospitality, health, transport and other shift workers to actually work at night. “We’re also going to pull out all stops to attract exciting

start-ups to Cairns.” Cr Eden said it would involve venture capitalists – whose core business and survival – depended on finding young businesses that can produce substantial and rapid growth. “If those ventures were looking to set up in Cairns, we’ll entice them with appropriate incentives,” she said.

“We’ll also work to partner with our universities and others to turbocharge this exciting coinvestment business model. “Cairns official growth forecasts are about one quarter more residents in the next quarter of a century. “Not enough, we say. A much bigger Cairns has its challenges – infrastructure amongst them

– but we’ll also be a more vibrant, more exciting city, bustling with successful businesses and nightlife. “A true regional capital. I and my team believe it’s time for Cairns to mature. Time for a fresh, new team. Time for fresh, new ideas. Time for change.” MORE ELECTION COVERAGE PAGES 8-9

Flood appeal for Degarra folk raises $20,000 l DOUGLAS SHIRE | Isabella Guzman Gonzalez BUSINESSES across the Douglas shire, led by The Tin Shed Port Douglas, have come together to support the devastated community of Degarra with a flood appeal that has fundraised over $20,000 to help its residents get a new start. As residents of the small community of Degarra continue to be in dire conditions after Cyclone Jasper, The Tin Shed decided to call on businesses and support

the community, launching a flood appeal that has garnered the backing of Mossman Bowls Club, Great Northern Brewing Company, Treasury Wine Estates and more. “We’re roughly at $22,000 but I’m still waiting on some businesses to get back to me with what they’ve been able to fundraise,” said Tin Shed’s general manager Kyle Livingston. “We just want to raise as much as possible as quick as possible so we can distribute what we can to that area,” he said. “Right now, we’re trying to get Harvey Norman on board to be able to provide

the community with white goods that will be essential when the recovery starts. We just want to do what we can for the community.” Partnering with the bowls club, the two organisations held a Bowl for Degarra event at the club last Friday, with giveaways, raffles and a main prize draw that raised $3300 for the appeal. “Kyle Livingston emailed me proposing to do a bowling event to raise funds and we organised in a week,” said bowls club president Greg Potter. “We know that bowls can be a good way to raise money, so we had raffles, do-

nations from Mossman Meat House and Mossman Boat and Fishing Club to raffle off. We had about 30 people bowling and another 30-40 in the club buying tickets for the raffles and we raised $3300. “We’ve been using our grants and raising funds to support the communities affected by the floods as much as we can so it’s excellent that we were able to do this.” Mr Livingston said the appeal would probably close at the end of next week. To support the appeal contact Kyle Livingston at info@thetinshed-portdouglas.com.au or phone the Tin Shed.

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 measures will include rent relief, refund of all venue hires as well as the refund of caravan park fees, and ferry travel where cancellation has occurred. Residents and businesses should receive their half-yearly rate notices in the post by early next week. For more information, visit the Douglas Shire website at https://douglas.qld.gov.au

l MISSION BEACH

A $15 million construction contract will progress to negotiations with a preferred tenderer for the Mission Beach Town Centre Revitalisation endorsed by Cassowary Coast Regional Council at its January monthly meeting. Following contract negotiations with the preferred tenderer, a schedule of works will be announced as the next significant step.

Transparency | Accountability | Engagement A Cairns worth fighting for In our vision for Cairns, every voice matters, and every resident should have the opportunity to actively shape the future of our City. We’re not about promises; we’re about meaningful action and a commitment to working towards a Cairns that’s not just stronger, but safer, more resilient, and future-ready. Authorised by Gary Kerr, 5-7 Arlington Esplanade, Clifton Beach

www.cairnslocalnews.com.au

Our plan to deliver

teameden.com.au Cairns Local News, Friday, February 2, 2024 PAGE 3

Warning after Role model for Reef tourism disease death l CAIRNS REGION

Spike in soil and water contaminations l FAR NORTH | Nick Dalton A DEADLY tropical disease has claimed its first victim in the Far North and a warning from health authorities about melioidosis. A Cairns Hospital and Health Service spokesman said one person had died in the the Cairns region from melioidosis. “No further details can be provided due to patient confidentiality,” he said. Health officials are urging residents to be cautious when coming into contact with soil and muddy water, following a spike in cases of melioidosis after recent heavy rain and flooding. “There has been nine confirmed melioidosis cases reported since the beginning of January. This is a high number of cases for the time of year,” the spokesman said. “Melioidosis is a serious disease found in ground water and soil. It causes death in up to 50 per cent or more of untreated cases and up to 20 per cent of treated cases.

Dr Richard Gair.

“Early recognition and treatment is important.” Tropical Public Health Services Cairns director Dr Richard Gair said the disease occurred when skin abrasions or wounds came into contact with wet soil or water contaminated by the bacteria Burkholderia pseudomallei. “Melioidosis is very uncommon in healthy adults, and rarely seen in children, but can occasionally occur in people with diabetes, kidney problems, lung problems and people on medication that lowers their immune system,” he said. “Symptoms of acute melioidosis may include fever, cough

and difficulty breathing. The effects can be very severe and often require hospitalisation for antibiotic treatment. Sometimes the disease presents as superficial skin infections or abscesses in various part of the body. “If anyone has noticed nonhealing wounds or persistent fevers over several weeks, then they should be seen by their GP and checked for this infection, as it can require prolonged antibiotic treatment.” There is no vaccine to prevent melioidosis. During the wet season, northern Queensland residents, particularly those with an underlying medical condition, should take the following precautions: • Wear protective footwear when outdoors • Wear gloves while working in the garden, on the farm etc. • Cover abrasions and sores with waterproof dressings • Wash thoroughly (preferably shower) after exposure to soil or muddy water, and after working outdoors • Diabetics should maintain optimal foot care, with help from a podiatrist if necessary.

Council News Update New name for Kenrick Park

Barlow Park closure

The community is being invited to suggest a new name for Kenrick Street Park in Gordonvale.

Barlow Park is temporarily closed to the public due to urgent repairs to the athletics track.

The park is being transformed into a fun, family oriented parkland for the community of Gordonvale and the wider area. Stage 1 of the redevelopment is jointly funded by Council and the Queensland Government, which has committed $3 million to the project.

It is expected to re-open by 1 March, weather permitting.

In accordance with Council policy, parks are to be dual named with a name chosen by the public and one by Traditional Owners.

Hasell St, Portsmith: Stormwater renewal between Hartley St and Knight St from Saturday 3 February. Full closure of Hasell St on Saturday.

In this instance, the Traditional Owners have chosen “Gujura Park”, which refers to the very bushy or leafy trees which will adorn the park. Residents can submit a name for the park at Council’s website. Submissions are open until 5pm Thursday 22 February.

Check the Barlow Park Cairns Facebook Page for updates on the repair progress and for the latest information on reopening.

Improvement works

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PAGE 4 Cairns Local News, Friday, February 2, 2024

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Southside Business women’s club celebrating 40 years since foundation $1.3m keno win

Decades of networking

l EDMONTON AN Edmonton man has won more than $1.2 million in Keno. He has confessed he wasn’t watching the draw and didn’t give himself a ‘hope in hell’ of winning before he discovered he’d bagged more than $1.2 million in a Keno draw bought at Fuller Sports Club on Thursday last week. The Queenslander scored the Keno Classic 10 Spot jackpot in draw 170, and took home a total prize of $1,263,863.80. “Mate, I’ve been playing these numbers for five years and I just believed I had to stick with them,” he said when a Keno official called him to confirm the win. “It really was a run-of-themill Thursday for me. I’d just headed down to catch up with a mate and put on a couple of games,” he said. “We weren’t even watching the Keno draw. Then we noticed a bit of a commotion, and someone told us there’d been a big win of 10 numbers. “I thought, ‘Oh, I’ve got 10 numbers. So, I waited until it had all calmed down and checked my ticket. “I think I nearly passed out. “I can’t tell you what the future holds but I know I want to go on an overseas holiday and then set myself up as much as I can. It’s amazing. Thanks so much.”

l CAIRNS REGION | Isabella Guzman Gonzalez THE Far North’s first club for women in business and female entrepreneurs – Cairns Business Women’s Club – is launching ruby jubilee celebrations for the year with a cocktail party at Dundee’s at the Aquarium to celebrate 40 years of creating a network for businesswomen. From 6pm on Friday, February 9, hundreds of current and past members, presidents and board members are expected to gather at partner venue Dundee’s at the Aquarium for a cocktail party with a lot of history involved. CBWC president Kearley Dent said it was a momentous occasion for the club and one that should be celebrated throughout the year. “It’s massively exciting to be celebrating this because the fact that a not-for-profit organisation can last 40 years is impressive and that for that whole time CBWC has been supporting women in business,” she said. “This cocktail party kicks off the celebration for the year, we’ll run our standard events and, of course, our awards this year we’ll be a super special one to celebrate 40 years.” It was formed in October, 1984 by founding president Margaret Gill, who discovered a gap for

CBWC past president Sally Mlikota, founding president Margaret Gill, president Kearley Dent and life member Jill Morris, at Dundee’s at the Aquarium, are encouraging women in business to celebrate 40 years of CBWC. Picture: Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

spaces exclusively for women looking to go into business in the Far North. “I’d been in Cairns for two years in 1984 and going along to tourism events I noticed it was 90 per cent men and 10 per cent women, so I thought, ‘Why don’t I start something focused on

women and give back to women in business?’,”she said. “So I put an ad in the paper and thought, ‘If I get 25 women I’ll go ahead with it’. Fifty-eight women attended that first meeting, two months later it became something permanent and it blossomed from there. “Celebrating 40 years now al-

lows young women in business or even just young girls still in school to see how far women have come and that you don’t have to be old and grey to be successful in business but a young and vibrant woman.” CBWC life member Jill Morris encouraged people to join in

the celebrations. “CBWC has helped me overcome my dislike of networking and connected me to a network of very open businesses that share and help each other,” she said. To buy tickets, visit the CBWC website, via https://bit.ly/3SDOhbZ

We are seeking motivated individuals to join our world class centre in the heart of Redlynch. Whether you’re just starting your career or looking to take your experience to the next level, we have a range of casual and full positions available. POSITIONS AVAILABLE: • Assistant Director • Early Childhood Teacher • Lead Educators • Educators

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Cairns Local News, Friday, February 2, 2024 PAGE 5

Citizens of the year

Elder held in highest esteem

Head of Indigenous justice group contributes profoundly to shire communities l DOUGLAS SHIRE | Nick Dalton THE coordinator of Mossman’s Elders Justice Group, Christine Lynch, is Douglas Shire Council’s citizen of the year for 2024. Douglas Shire Mayor Michael Kerr said Ms Lynch had a passion for people and contributing to the health and wellbeing of the community. “The Elders Justice Group is a safe, inclusive centre that offers help and support for anyone who walks through the door,” he said. “She contributes in many ways, helping families with child safety, youth justice, the family relationship commission, family reunification,

stolen wages, mediation as well as simple things like putting credit on phones, or offering advice on understanding Centrelink.” Elders Justice Group colleague Reuben Dwyer accepted the award on behalf of Ms Lynch at a ceremony in Port Douglas last week. He said Ms Lynch displayed great determination to re-open the service after the floods that ravaged the shire last month. “Her number one reason for doing so was to get those doors open again for people who needed our service,” he said. “She’s really looking forward to a new year of supporting people. She’s committed as ever.”

Other citizen of year award winners include: junior sports – Caitlyn Butland, senior sports – Rod Johnson, environmental achievement – Sid Murthy, arts and culture – Eliza Eggins, civil recognition courage and mateship – Dan Cherpillod, Marlin Ketteringham and Dakota Santarossa, volunteer of the year – Walter Gray, young citizen of the year – Amber Yendle, senior citizen of the year – Wendy ‘LuLu’ Cowan and citizen of the year – Christine Lynch. Mayor Kerr said every nominee should be proud of their work. “To have your name put forward by your peers is an achievement in itself and every nominee should be congratulated,” he said.

Douglas Shire Mayor Michael Kerr with junior citizen of the year Amber Yendle Picture: Supplied

Teacher aide, who goes beyond the call of duty, is citizen of year FROM PAGE 1

Affectionately called Auntie Jacqui by some, Miss Jacqui by others, and sometimes simply Jacqui, she is a proud Torres Strait Islander woman who generously shares her culture and knowledge, and who has demonstrated an ability to connect with these young people. Her journey with Education Queensland started in 1993, as

a volunteer at the former Cairns North State School. Since then, Ms Backhouse has been involved in numerous activities across many schools, including Cairns West, Whitfield and Edge Hill state schools. Her dedication to children extends well beyond the remit of teacher aide. Yazmin Rivett was named Cairns young citizen of the year, acknowledging her commitment

to addressing the educational disparities experienced by some school students. The volunteer of the year is Carol Mills, who has been a driving force for positive change in the Cairns community through her extensive volunteer work and influential leadership within the public housing sector, her commitments extend across various organisations, including FNQ

Legacy, Cairns RSL Sub-Branch, the Naval Graves Project, Access Housing, and as chairman of Queensland Housing Commission. Australian softball representative Hirari Kurihara was named sportsperson of the year, acknowledging her success on the field, as well as her dedication to coaching and developing junior participants.

Junior sportsperson of the year was Rhiannon Forbes, who has made outstanding contributions to young women in sport, in particular through hockey. Kalan Gosper was presented with a highly commended award in the young sportsperson of the year category. Born with cerebral palsy, he has competed with able bodied students in many sports, such as soccer, touch football,

and cricket, and has enjoyed success in track and field as well as cross country. Recipient of the cultural award of the year was Maureen Cameron for her contribution over the past 20 years to the local music community, while Joyce Swinton was given a lifetime achievement award for her philanthropy, which has helped to improve healthcare in the Far North.

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PAGE 6 Cairns Local News, Friday, February 2, 2024

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Citizens of the year

Ten get national awards

Mayor says high school principal has done so much for community

‘True leader’ honoured

l FAR NORTH

l CASSOWARY COAST

TEN Far Northern people received Australia Day honours.

| Nick Dalton

Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the General Division

• Nicholas Stephen Moore, Cardwell, for significant service to the aquaculture sector.

Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the General Division

• Raymond Valentine Byrnes, Yungaburra, for service to Yungaburra. • David John Chalk, Gordonvale, for service to veterans and their families, and to the community. • John Francis Compton, Yungaburra, for service to Yungaburra. • Colin Sidney Sparkes, Brinsmead, for service to surf lifesaving, and to rugby league. Public Service Medal (PSM)

• Darren Cleland, Biboohra, for outstanding public service to regional and rural communities in Queensland. • Tracey Leanne Graham, Cairns, for outstanding public service to Pormpuraaw.

Conspicuous Service Cross (CSC)

• Navy Petty Officer Gillian Louise Bryant, for outstanding achievement as a member of the Royal Australian Navy Sea Training Group Defence Co-operation Program. Australian (ACM)

Corrections

Medal

• Geoffrey Phillip Robins, Queensland Corrective Services.

Cassowary Coast Mayor Mark Nolan with citizen of the year Richard Graham. Picture: Supplied

www.cairnslocalnews.com.au

TULLY State High School principal Richard Graham is the Cassowary Coast’s citizen of the year for 2024. Mayor Mark Nolan said Mr Graham’s leading roles in both school and community organisations made him a leader in every sense of the word. “Richard has taken on countless leading roles in both school and community organisations, including the Innisfail Community Band, Innisfail Young Performers Committee, Far North Queensland Instrumental Music Working Party and Combined Sports Association to name just a few,” he said. “Words can’t adequately describe what he has done for the Cassowary Coast’s sporting, cultural and educational landscape.” Mr Graham said he was hesitant to take full credit for his achievements. “To be nominated alongside such high achieving community members was an honour, and I attribute much of this award to my colleagues who do the hard yards behind the scenes,” he said. “I might be the face of some of these organisations and activities but I’m just communicating the work and effort of the good people in the Cassowary Coast who’ve helped along the way.”

Young citizen of the year was council employee and Miss Riverfest Queen Rikki-Lee Broccardo, who was recognised for her exceptional contributions to the community as a youth advisory committee member, and devotion to the Innisfail Rotary Club, among other achievements. Twenty-three of the Cassowary Coast’s most dedicated and accomplished community members received awards. Cr Nolan said the award recipients represented an inspiring group with many talents and qualities that formed the foundations of the community. “The Australia Day awards provide a significant opportunity to publicly recognise and celebrate our local heroes,” he said. “Each and every recipient has made substantial contributions to improve our region. “We are better as a community for their efforts and thank them for their continued dedication and service.” 2024 is the first year that the council’s youth sports bursary was included in the Australia Day Awards ceremony. The recipients were Elle Gracie (junior sports female 8-12), Shaun Riley (junior sports m, 8-12), Mia Wilson (senior sports female 13-18) and Kai Greven (senior sports male 13-18). For the full list of awards go to www.cairnslocalnews.com.au

Cairns Local News, Friday, February 2, 2024 PAGE 7

2024 council election s

Connect police to CCTV l CAIRNS REGION

MAYORAL aspirant Cr Amy Eden wants Queensland Police to be given direct access to the Cairns’ CCTV network in a bid to tackle crime more effectively. She said now was not the time for more talkfests but for action. In response to recent pledges made by fellow candidate Paul Taylor, a former senior police officer, Cr Eden said there was a need for tangible action over mere rhetoric. “Mr Taylor’s proposal for a community forum to understand the complexities of our safety concerns is simply inadequate. We cannot afford to delay action while our city grapples with rising crime rates,” she said. “Mr Taylor spent a career in the police force and was operating at its highest level when crime and safety issues in Cairns reached their peak. For him to now say he needs to have a community forum to understand the issue defies belief. “Our city is equipped with extensive camera networks, yet they remain underutilised in preventing crimes before they occur. It’s time to empower our police force to actively monitor these resources and deploy preventive measures.” She said there were plenty of cameras throughout the city to help the police.

Candidates are oﬀ and

Big ﬁeld lines up for mayoral and councillor positions with three

l CAIRNS REGION | Nick Dalton THE race for Spence St Cairns Regional Council headquarters is on. The local government election campaign has officially started as councils throughout Queensland entered their caretaker periods on Monday. Nominations for mayoralties and councillor roles have also opened and close on February 13 for the election on March 16. To date there are five people seeking election as mayor of Cairns – three team leaders and two independent candidates. Cr Terry James is currently mayor after been appointed to the role in November after the resignation of Bob Manning. He heads the Unity Team, also formerly headed by Mr Manning Division 5 councillor and leader of Team Eden, Amy Eden, is seeking the top job after just one term in council. Community first leader and long-time environmentalist Denis Walls is having a tilt at the mayoralty for the first time. Former senior police officer Paul Taylor, whose decadeslong police career ended suddenly in 2022, now wants to take on the region’s top civic role.

Businessman and independent John Kelly is running as leader of the Common Sense Party which has yet to announce candidates. In division 1, incumbent and deputy mayor Brett Moller starts his campaign for re-election unchallenged. In division 2, incumbent Rob Pyne is contesting division 5, leaving a competitive field of six candidates, including former division 2 councillor John Schilling, Cairns Chamber of Commerce vice-president Matthew Tickner and high school teacher Stephen Lippingwell as independents. Unity has put forward businesswoman Nikki Giumelli, Team Eden’s candidate is community advocate Kesa Strieby and Community First has nominated Indigenous community facilitator Patricia Courtenay. In division 3, popular incumbent Cathy Zeiger has no independent competition but faces Unity’s business woman Heidi Healy and small business owner Marisa Seden for Community First. In division 4, Unity’s Cr Jeremy Neal fills the vacancy left by Cr James who was elevated to mayor. The paramedic was controversially elected to the spot last month using the majority held

Team Eden leader Amy Eden.

by Unity councillors. Other candidates are Team Eden’s radio host Trevor Tim and independent Shane Cuthbert. In division 5, Rob Pyne is having a third go at a division, having served in divisions 2 and 3. He is up against Unity candidate Nathan Lee Long, who is a professional project manager

Mayor Terry James heads the Unity Team.

and former Urban Development Institute of Australia Far Northern president, and local business owner Emma Gelling for Team Eden. In division 6, incumbent Kristy Vallely represents Unity. She is up against local business owner and independent Alan Benn, Team Eden’s candidate,

and real estate agent Shane Trimby, and GP Nicole Sleeman for Community First. In division 7, retiring threetermer Max O’Halloran (Unity) departs with pharmacist Matthew Calanna representing Unity. Also contesting the seat is physiotherapist and business-

CONTINUED NEXT PAGE

Cowley Street, Kamerunga, QLD, 4870 P: 07 4039 9000 | E: enrolments@plc.qld.edu.au

PAGE 8 Cairns Local News, Friday, February 2, 2024

www.cairnslocalnews.com.au

2024 council election s

racing for coveted roles teams and many independents eyeing off nine divisional seats

Common Sense Party leader John Kelly. FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

woman Anna Middleton as an independent, Community First’s Renee Lees, who is a lawyer and former federal senate candidate, and Ian Moller Nielsen, the Cairns Show Association secretary-manager. In division 8, incumbent councillor Rhonda Coghlan

Independent mayoral candidate Paul Taylor.

(Unity) comes up against independent and last year’s volunteer of the year, Hannah Boon and 2023 woman of the year Jo Piggott (Team Eden), and Community First’s Phillip Musumeci, who was the 2022 Greens’ federal candidate for Leichhardt. In division 9, it will be a tough

www.cairnslocalnews.com.au

task to roll fiercely independent Brett Olds. Both Unity and Eden teams are not fielding candidates while Community First has put up Carine Visschers, who has lived in the northern beaches for 28 years and has had a long professional career in the Department of Housing and community organisations.

Community First leader Denis Walls.

The Electoral Commission of Queensland has launched the 2024 Queensland local government elections advertising campaign – Vote Local. About 3.7 million Queenslanders will head to the polls on Saturday, March 16, to vote for the mayors and councillors who will represent them in 77 local

government areas throughout Queensland. Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen said the ECQ’s campaign would run state-wide in the lead up to the elections and is aimed at connecting electors to the things that matter to them in their local communities.

Visit www.ecq.qld.gov.au

Team launch ‘a success’ l CAIRNS CBD

COMMUNITY First launched their campaign last weekend. “The Community First campaign launch at Crate 59 last weekend was a rip-roaring success,” said team leader and mayoral candidate Denis Walls. “Thanks to the superb organisation and emceeing skills of our team, everyone had a great evening,” he said. “There was a crowd of over 60 people packed into the premises and spilling on to the street. “They heard, to loud applause, from all the registered candidates – what they stood for and why they were standing. “It was a terrific opportunity to network, make new friends, and inform new supporters of the work needed for the eight weeks of the campaign before voting day on March 16. “Community First would like to thank everyone who attended and encourages them to pass their enthusiasm on to friends, family, acquaintances and colleagues who may be interested in getting involved in helping our transformative team of committed and progressive people who want to make Cairns and the region a better place. The team is fielding candidates in divisions 2, 3, 6, 7, 8 and 9.

Cairns Local News, Friday, February 2, 2024 PAGE 9

Lettersto the editor

WANT TO BE HEARD? send your text to 0473 424 877 or email letters@cairnslocalnews.com.au GP wants to be regional councillor

be a

Cyclone review is questioned

Donald Trump in with good chance

Local body elections start

Vocal Local join our online debate There was no response to our Chinese New Year question last week but there was to the story about Cairns Regional Council’s review of its handling of Cyclone Jasper and the subsequent floods. Here are some of your comments. Between BOM, and the Local Disaster Management team, it was handled atrociously. Lack of warnings, and the inability of BOM to use its technology to issue timely warnings, needs a serious look at. But this ‘review’ will achieve nothing, and just pat those on the back that did a terrible job through this disaster. - Andrew Lee, Facebook

THIS WEEK’S QUESTION Which Cairns mayoral candidate will you be voting for and why?

@cairnslocalnews

¡ ¢ £

They might want to look into the ridiculous price to insure up here too. Soon no-one will be able to insure their property. - Sam Sam, Facebook

be paid hundreds of thousands of dollars to write a piece of paper that most people won’t see and no-one is obliged to follow the advice anyway. Like every royal commission. Waste of money. Rates poorly spent. -Cam Wan, Facebook If done correctly, it’s an opportunity to learn from the experience of this disaster and learn lessons which inform improvements to strategy and response in future. This needs to include the experiences of people involved, impacted and responding in the community. - Nic Wright, Facebook

Unnecessary expense for an already broke council. Why pay an independent consultant when there are so many other desperate needs in the community? They will

Without accountability the goodwill and ethics of our politicians are relied upon for improvement. - Michele Leiminer, Facebook

¢ ¤

Driving tips to prevent crashes, especially in wet weather IF you drive too close to the vehicle in front of you, you will likely crash if they brake suddenly. Keep far enough back so that if they do something you are not expecting, you can still stop in time. In clear weather conditions, you should drive at least two seconds behind the vehicle in front of you. In wet weather, you need to double your stopping time, so you must travel at least four

Jane’s view seconds behind the vehicle in front of you. If you have a trailer or caravan attached, allow at

least four seconds for your car and two seconds or each 3m of your trailer/caravan. Heavy vehicles should drive at least eight seconds behind the vehicle in front of you. To work out how many seconds you are behind the vehicle in front of you: 1. Pick a mark on the road or an object close to the left side of the road (such as a power pole). 2. When the back of the vehicle in front of you passes the mark or object, count “one-

thousand-one, one-thousandtwo, one-thousand-three, onethousand-four”. This takes about four seconds. 3. If the front of your vehicle reaches the mark or object before you finish counting, you are too close and need to drop back. When you find yourself in unexpected wet weather, follow these safety tips. • Drive slower – to avoid aquaplaning and skidding. • Drive with your lights on

Know your zone at the Cairns Disaster Dashboard . Road conditions

. Power outages

. Flood cameras

low beam, not parking lights. • Use your airconditioner or demister to keep your windscreen clear of condensation. • Double the distance between you and the car in front. • Avoid braking suddenly, accelerating, or turning quickly – to reduce your chances of skidding. • Use road line markings to stay in the middle of your lane. • Do not drive on roads covered with water, even partially covered.

• Watch out for landslides – heavy rain can cause layers of rock and soil to move. You may need to drive slower in wet weather. Always remember- the signed speed limit is the maximum safe speed in ideal driving conditions. Slow down and drive according to weather and road conditions. Remember, if it’s flooded, forget it. Jane Moran is a senior constable based in Innisfail

Cairns Alert

disaster.cairns.qld.gov.au PAGE 10 Cairns Local News, Friday, February 2, 2024

www.cairnslocalnews.com.au

Cairns Local News, Friday, February 2, 2024 PAGE 11

Wining and Dining

Duo established food and drink venue in honour of four travelling mates

Restaurant forever Italian l CAIRNS CBD

take the leap into their own restaurant. Paolo said they both knew exactly where they wanted to settle – Cairns. “We are so honoured to call Cairns home, and to be able to transport our guests to Italy with every bite,” he said. Their dreams came true when they opened Pist4cchi in 2021. Pronounced ‘pistakki,’ which is of course Italian for pistachios. The A is replaced with a 4 to honour the lifelong friendship, now family, of the foursome. The menu combines recipes from their southern Italian mothers and nonnas, along with favourites from northern Italy they have gathered on their travels, all recreated with a modern ‘pistacchi’ twist. In keeping with traditional methods they make everything they can by hand, just like Nonna did back in the old country. Handmade pastas and breads and sauces, using fresh and local ingredients as well as adding the magical ingredient to any Italian dish – that extra dash of love. Delicacies such as prosciutto, salami and cheeses are brought in from only the best Italian delis, stored and only sliced when you order so can genuinely enjoy the freshness and fullness of their rich flavours. No Italian meal is complete without wine. Pist4cchi has every palate covered with over 100 Italian wines and some select Australian labels to complement your meal, or simply enjoy with something light from their tapas menu at the cocktail bar.

| Elaine Deane, FNQ FOOD MIDWAY along Shields Street is where you will find Pist4cchi Restaurant and Cocktail Bar, Cairn’s very own slice of Italy where two Italian chaps are sharing the warmth of their Nonna’s love and inspiration with us all. From the welcoming greeting, the chill vibe with undertones of a Nonna’s hug, exciting cocktail choices, and the delicious authentic Italian cuisine on offer, get ready for a ‘Bellissima Esperienza’. For owners Paolo and Francesco, Pistacchi truly is their dream come true. A culmination of their life-long friendship, love of family, food and fun. A meeting of four teenagers starting their careers in hospitality industry in Italy, led to a great friendship between the four with their collective passion for travel and food saw the foursome adventure together worldwide for over 20 years. The time came for the foursome to divide, with two friends having to return to Italy for family reasons. Their final evening together wound up with the four lifelong friends reminiscing over a bag of pistachios, which led to quick late night dash to a tattooist for a last group tattoo – of a pistachio, of course. Paolo and Francesco continued with the foursome’s dream, to combine their knowledge and love of Italian cuisine and finally

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Paolo and Francesco are the founders of Pist4cchi Restaurant and Cocktail Bar. Picture: FNQ Food

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Valentines Day Love is in the air at resort

Month of romance with packed menu of entertainment, wining and dining l PORT DOUGLAS A MONTH of love is being celebrated at the Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort at Port Douglas until February 29. General manager Steve Molnar said the heat was getting turned all the way up. “Hold onto your heart-shaped hats because this love affair isn’t confined to red roses and heart-shaped chocolate boxes,” he said. “It’s a pulse-quickening lineup of events and guests that will make you fall head over heels for the love of food, your squad and community.” Harrison’s annual girls’ night out on Saturday, February 10 is an evening of laughter, love, and the kind of memories that are born when fabulous women come together. Liv Downing, a registered psychologist, mindfulness educator, meditation guru, and mother will provide a free, family-friendly book reading on Thursday, February 15, followed by a guided family meditation. “This special event is open to both resort guests and the ge-

Guests enjoy food, drink and atmosphere at the Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort at Port Douglas. Picture: Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort

neral public, because spreading love knows no boundaries,” Mr Molnar said. “Fostering resilience and wellbeing, Liv will discuss the power of community connection

and share a brief meditation on Friday, February 16. “Grab your tiaras, darling, and get ready to sashay into the fabulous world of the drag queen high tea at the Daintree Bar on

Friday, February 23. “Sheraton’s classic high tea is getting a glammed-up makeover with sequins, feathers, and a generous swipe of hot pink lippy. “Brace yourself for gourmet

finger sandwiches, dainty petit fours, fluffy scones, and performances that will make your heart race, courtesy of Cairns’ very own dazzling diva, Donna Perignonn. Fan the flames of your

passion for rum on February 24 at the resort’s exclusive ‘Raise a Glass to the Past’ Rum Masterclass, led by none other than the maestro of spirits, Mark Watkins from FNQ Rum Co. “Get ready for a journey through three award-winning rums expertly paired with delectable light bites. “But the love affair with food doesn’t end there. Brace your taste buds for an epicurean adventure as renowned chefs Jerry Mai, a Taste Port Douglas favourite and Melbourne restaurateur, and Sarah Tiong, a MasterChef AU alum and Ogni co-owner, take command of the kitchen at Harrison’s restaurant on the very same Saturday, February 24. Get ready for a modern taste of Southeast Asia that will transport your palate straight to tropical paradise. “To wind down the month of love, there’s a hot and spicy Sheraton sunset session like no other on Sunday, February 25, featuring fabulous DJ sets from premier party hostess Jimi the Kween, elevated entertainment, cool tropical cocktails and delicious Mediterranean bites.”

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Cairns Local News, Friday, February 2, 2024 PAGE 13

Gazza’s Gossip

Breakfast from 6am on Douglas FM 101.5FM

Recovery needs more dough l MOSSMAN NOW into month two of the year, much conversation remains around the recovery from last year’s cyclone and subsequent rain. I am pleased to report on one Mossman business, that experienced the full rigours of the floods along Front Street, has bounced back to reopen its doors. Duke’s Donuts, owned and run by Sally and Mike Miller, opened only last year in March after much hard work setting up. Homemade donuts together with coffees and other bakery items have become increasingly popular with both locals and visitors, right up to the point when Jasper paid a visit and hung around for the Christmas festivities far too long. Having seen at least 30cm of flood water, Sally and Mike, with the help of friends, immediately mucked out under their own steam with the hope of getting back open as quickly as possible. It was evident from very early on that significant damage had been done to vital equipment, essential for their normal opera-

tion. Another local business kindly loaned some equipment which at least allowed them to trade over the holiday period. Like many others, our local donut experts have been awaiting a hydrologist report for insurance purposes. They have also considered the lengthy process of applying for a government grant, or should I say loan. As previously discussed in the ‘Goss’, the loan application nearly requires a firstclass honours degree in English literature, plus business and personal records from the last three years. Not really what you need at this stage after a major disaster. For Dukes it was, in fact, a double whammy, as the heavy rain also came in through the ceiling. Thus far, Sally and Mike have self-funded the replacement equipment required to get back on track, with the hope that an insurance payout will come soon. The good news is that the hydrologist has now made the visit and they wait with bated breath for an insurance company decision. Duke’s is not just about the coffee and donuts, as the bakery at the rear produces all sorts of delights that are not only sold in

store, but also at the Port Douglas market on Sundays. On the face of it, the store looks in pretty good shape, but in reality, a new floor is likely to be required costing around $10,000, the ceiling will need to be repaired and walls painted. In addition, slowly swelling cabinetry will need replacement and a refrigerated display cabinet sits in darkness, a replacement for which is something in the order of $7000. They are, of course, hoping that the they will eventually get the financial support they deserve and their insurance company will do the right thing. As we know already know, other organisations are still in the same boat, if you’ll excuse the rather unfortunate term, so we wish them all a positive resolution, sooner rather than later. I’m off to support local businesses and have a cinnamon donut, so now it’s Gazza signing out.

Mike gets back to work in the kitchen.

Send your stories to gazza@ cairnslocalnews.com.au

Above, and right: Duke’s Donuts staff mucking out after the ﬂoods.

Sally pleased to be serving again.

One-year trial of free entry to Mossman pool’s splash pad l MOSSMAN USERS will get free entry to Mossman pool’s new splash pad after it is finished. Last week Douglas Shire Council agreed to a one-year trial of an honour system to allow free entry to use the splash pad only. In December councillors deferred a decision on free use to

discuss the implications. The pad, and one for Port Douglas, has been funded by the Queensland Government to the tune of $1.5 million. Cr Abigal Noli told last week’s council monthly meeting that, while it was “unusual” to offer free use of the splash pad but not the rest of the pool’s facilities, it made “a lot of sense” and she

was “happy”. “I hope it’s up and running very soon,” she said. Deputy mayor Lisa Scomazzon said she had not been able to find one council that charged people to use splash pads. She said the complimentary visits would draw more people to the pool. In a report, shire people and community services manager

Lisa Golding said the splash pad was built within the fenced precinct of the Mossman pool for security and amenity, but the location was challenging for the provision of free entry to the splash pad. “Various options have been explored to enable free entry for families utilising the splash pad, including fencing the splash

pad from the rest of the venue, changing the fees and charges schedule to allow free entry to the pool precinct for all Douglas residents, or to allow free entry to the precinct for those only using the splash pad,” she said. “Each of these options would result in reduced services to patrons of the pool precinct or a negative financial impact to

council, or both. “Of the options explored, the implementation of an honour system allowing free entry to the facility for those only utilising the splash pad, will have the least negative impacts for council.” But Ms Golding warned that extra staff would be needed to monitor patrons’ use of the various play areas.

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cairnslocalnews.com.au PAGE 14 Cairns Local News, Friday, February 2, 2024

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TimeOut Cairns Tropical Writers’ Festival returns bigger and better than last year’s event

Stories will fascinate fans l CAIRNS CBD | Isabella Guzman Gonzalez ATTRACTING thousands of storytelling fanatics to Cairns, the Cairns Tropical Writers’ Festival is back with a remarkable line-up of over 100 of Australia’s best writers, dozens of workshops and book launches and even a comedy cabaret about endometriosis this March. After an incredibly successful run in 2023, with over 4114 tickets sold and 120 speakers across the three days, the Cairns Tropical Writers’ Festival is looking to outdo itself in 2024 launching the theme “True lies” which explores fake news and misinformation across three days of storytelling bliss from March 8-10. Crystalbrook Flynn will be the hub of the festival with most events taking place there, some workshops at the Cairns City Library and the awaited Endo Days cabaret at the Cairns Performing Arts Centre. Festival director Jules Steer said this year a line-up of over 100 amazing writers and storytellers would honour Cairns with their presence, including a headlining poet from New York. “We have some fantastic talent coming, we have over 100 authors and storytellers participating, we’ll have 10 local authors launching their books, about 16 workshops with everything from writing, illustrating and the business of publishing,” she said. “The line-up includes some fantastic names like Julia Baird,

the anchor for ABC Lisa Miller, Lisa Wilkinson and Peter FitzSimons, we’ll have Hedley Thomas from the Teacher’s Pet podcast, Chris Hammer who’s had two of his books become Netflix movies and more. “We’ll have some fantastic panels curated including a true crime panel, lots of First Nation authors and we have an amazing line up of local authors like Kerstin Pilz, Caroline de Costa a very well-known author, we have ARC Disability Services, they’re called the ARC creatives and six of them have written children’s books, and Debra Gavranich writer of The Girl Who Left. “And on Friday night, March 8, on International Women’s Day we’ll have a fantastic event with Endo Days and hilarious cabaret on endometriosis at CPAC.” Ms Steer called on the Far North’s bibliophiles and storytellers to harness the excitement of the growing festival. “The Cairns Tropical Writers’ Festival celebrates storytelling in all its forms, we’ve got workshops and panels on how storytelling is presented in film, poetry, hip hop, slam poetry, music, comedy, there’s something for everybody,” she said. “This is a wet season event that has great traction across Australia with storytellers from across Australia and as far as New York coming to Cairns for the festival and we want to cement our festival among the international writers festivals so come along.” More information and ticket are available at https://ctwf.com.au/

www.cairnslocalnews.com.au

Creator of Australia’s most downloaded podcast Teacher’s Pet, Hedley Thomas, will be launching his book at the writers’ festival. Picture: Supplied

Libby Trainor Parker’s Endo Days, a comedy cabaret on endometriosis, is one of the headlining events at the festival. Picture: Supplied

Local author Debra Gavranich has published The Girl Who Left and will be taking part in the festival. Picture: Supplied

Cairns Local News, Friday, February 2, 2024 PAGE 15

Time Out

Festival ‘whopping’ success

Annual event draws 140,000 people and generates nearly $2m in spending l CAIRNS REGION | Nick Dalton THE 2023 Cairns Festival has set a record attendance of about 140,000 people and generated nearly $2 million. A Cairns Regional Council report said the program delivered 210 performances, featuring 776 performers and artists, of which about 77 per cent were local. It said most of the money was spent by 6047 interstate visitors on accommodation, food and drink ($1.8m). The report said the festival “once again showcased a diverse and successful array of events with the highest ever audience attendance”. “The Cairns Festival programming team maintains a strong focus on creating a curated program whilst building partnerships with major and emerging local talent, state performing arts organisations and touring companies,” it said. “This year’s festival also provided outstanding opportunities for local artists and performers. The 2023 program featured music, physical theatre, comedy, roving performances, puppetry, high end projection and laser work, dance, film, cabaret, multimedia installations and visual arts, activating venues in the city and throughout the region. “The programming team committed to the festival vision of delivering a vibrant, progres-

sive and collaborative arts and cultural festival that reflects the region’s unique stories and celebrates the distinctive colours and hues of our tropical lifestyle. “Furthermore, to ensure Cairns Festival is accessible to audiences across the region, there was a continued focus on programming free events. In 2023, 91 per cent of the 210 performances were free to public. “Cairns Festival’s success each year is dependent upon ongoing engagement from the Cairns community. “From people participating in activities, to volunteering and attending as audiences, the unique energy and feel of our distinctly ‘Cairns’ festival comes from this. “As such, the team would like to thank the community for another safe and successful Cairns Festival.” Cr Kristy Valley told the December 21 council meeting it was “an amazing event”. She described it as a “whopping event” despite no grand parade, because of the weather, and thanked all those involved in its organisation. Carnival on Collins was the most popular event on the program with an estimated audience of 27,000 people. Other popular events were Reef Lights: Where the Rainforest Meets the Reef light and the laser installation at the Esplanade Lagoon (25,000).

The Sassy Catz at Carnival on Collins, which was the most popular event at last year’s Cairns Festival. Picture: Cairns Regional Council

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Time Out

COMING SOON TO CPAC

SAT 10 FEB MORNING MELODIES

Indie rock band and string quartet FourPlay are coming to the Tanks tomorrow. Picture: Supplied

Full February entertainment program

Lots of music to our ears l CAIRNS CITY

| Isaballa Guzman Gonzalez CAIRNS’ entertainment scene has hit the ground running in 2024, and with an array of unique musical experiences in store at the Tanks Arts Centre and Cairns Performing Arts Centre this February, it’s time to celebrate musical excellence in the tropics. There’s something for all music lovers in Cairns this month as a diversity of genres, styles and artists are taking the stage at CPAC and the Tanks, from funk and soul with 90s legends Skunkhour, unorthodox indie rock on classic strings with FourPlay, a much-needed Taylor Swift tribute with Taylor Made, to an exciting new album tour with singer songwriter Mia Dyson all in the coming weeks. Kicking off the month is the string quartet FourPlay returning to the Tanks Arts Centre after 18 years tomorrow, February 3, at the Tank 5 from 9am.

“If you’re expecting a string quartet you won’t be getting what you expect because it won’t be classical music at all, it’ll be everything from rock music to jazz, written by the band,” FourPlay cellist Peter Hollo said. “It’s been quite a long time since we played at the Tanks, we first performed there in 2006, and we’re excited to return to Far North Queensland and experience the beautiful architecture and feel of the place and sharing what we do with the audience. “We are really looking forward to inserting into our set our collaborative work with Neil Gailman the lovely British author and TV show writer, so it’ll be lovely to play it to the audience. “We’ve always had this strong desire of playing outside the classical and it’s how we formed, so anybody who’s interested in living a great musical experience and be swept up in really good music should come along.”

On Friday, February 9, the funk is heading north as Australian funk rock legends Skunkhour will take the stage at Tank 5 from 7.30pm as part of their Australian tour so prepare to dance to the rhythm of a bassline so chunky you could eat it. For the Cairns Swifties that missed on those Eras Tour tickets, Australian performers Alex The Astronaut, Charley, Clare Bowditch, Clementine Ford and Lisa Mitchell have got your back with Taylor Made, a tribute to Taylor Swift on Saturday, February 10 at CPAC. It might not be Eras but it’s still a ‘Love Story’ you’ll want to be a part of. Bringing the month to a closure is multiple ARIA and APRA award-winning guitarist and singer songwriter Mia Dyson who’s bringing her Tender Heart Tour to the tropics on February 23 at the Tanks Arts Centre. Don’t miss out on experiencing live one of Australia’s top 25 guitarists of all time. Visit Tanks Arts Centre and CPAC websites.

OF CAT STEVENS

MON 12 FEB

KATE CEBERANO SAT 16 MAR

THU 28 MAR MORNING MELODIES

MON 22 APR

SAT 27 APR

9-11 Florence Street, Cairns | cairnsperformingartscentre.com.au

ARIA and APRA award-winning guitarist and singer songwriter Mia Dyson Picture: Supplied

www.cairnslocalnews.com.au

Cairns Local News, Friday, February 2, 2024 PAGE 17

Time Out

More than 8000 people watched Cairns Choral Society’s 10 performances

Les Miz enthralls audiences

l CAIRNS CBD | Isabella Guzman Gonzalez WITH a full house the Cairns Choral Society brought its 2024 production of Les Misérables to an end with a bang last weekend after 10 performances, more than 8000 spectators across all performances and “night after night” standing ovations. First presented to the Cairns audiences in 1993 as an amateur production, the Cairns Choral Society brought Les Misérables back to life for the fourth time bigger and more stunning than ever before with amazing costumes and stage production that had more than 800 spectators nightly for the closing weekend. Les Misérables director Venera Walsh said the community’s response to the production was overwhelming. “With full houses for both opening and closing weekends, and in between, we are over the moon and grateful to the people of Cairns and FNQ for stepping up and showing out,” she said. “For our cast of 63 performers and 16-strong orchestra, it’s so wonderful to have this support from our community. “Closing night was bittersweet. We were sad it was ending but also relieved since it had been a very busy four to five months and, like in all productions, cast, crew, and orchestra have formed strong bonds and friendships. “We have been overwhelmed by the response, and to receive a standing

ovation night after night is so humbling and a validation for all the hard work, long hours and talent, and I am so so proud.” As an original cast member of Les Miz in 2003 Ms Walsh said she was proud to have brought back the popular production to Cairns now as director. “I was in the last staging of Les Misérables back in 2003 where I played Madame Thenardier. Never in my wildest dreams did I think 20 years later that I would be directing a return of the show,” she said. “And I’ve felt very proud to be the director to conclude the society’s 100th year celebrations with Les Miz, alongside musical directors Joanne Wright and Emma Baker and the rest of the talented production team.” Ms Walsh thanked the Cairns community for breathing new life into the arts by showing so much love to Les Miz. “We are just so incredibly proud of everyone involved in bringing this epic production to life and we are so thankful to the Cairns community for all their tremendous support,” she said. “What this says to me is that the arts are alive and well. That people want some escapism so they come to the theatre and immerse themselves in such iconic productions as Les Misérables and get to see the wonderous talent we have to offer here in Cairns.”

To keep up to date with the Cairns Choral Society’s program for 2024, visit www.cairnschoralsociety.com.au

A moving scene in Les Miserables performed by the Cairns Choral Society. Picture: Paul Furse, Frontrow Foto

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FEB 23 - MAR 2 20241.3opm PAGE 18 Cairns Local News, Friday, February 2, 2024

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WHAT’S ON

For more events visit cairnscalendar.com.au

SPORTS SIGN ON 2024 @ MT SHERIDAN PLAZA l SAT FEB 3 - SUN FEB 4, 9:00AM-1:00PM

Would you or someone in your family like to play a sport or join a club this year for fitness or fun? Meet with our local sporting and club representatives to find out what’s on offer, view timetables, membership fees and other useful information. You can even sign up if you’re ready to join! For more information visit Mount Sheridan Plaza website.

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

FRIDAY Dunwoody’s Hotel Eddie Skiba, 4:00pm L’Unico Sax Man, 4:30pm The Benson Hotel Troy Stevens, 6:30pm

SUNRISE TRIVIA NIGHT @ BROTHERS CAIRNS l SAT FEB 3, 6:00PM-9:30PM

The Rotary Club of Cairns Sunrise would like to invite you to its first fundraising event for 2024. Come join us at our Trivia Night at Brothers Cairns. Compete for some great prizes, have loads of fun, and show off your smarts! Bring your friends and family and your brain power for an unforgettable night of trivia! Your MC for the evening is Dave James from DJ Entertainment. All profits from the evening will be donated to the homeless of Cairns. Cost: Tickets are only $20 per person. Book your tickets through trybooking.

Mayhem at Machans Two Dogs Music, 6:00pm Cazaly’s Cairns Carrizma, 6:30pm Brothers Leagues Club Cairns No more No Less, 6:30pm Bingil Bay Café Carinda Christie, 6:30pm Brothers Leagues Club Innisfail Infinity Duo, 7:00pm Elixir Music House Pelicana, 7:30pm Bar36 Reef Hotel Casino Fingerprint, 9:00pm

UNSEEN CINEMA @ CAIRNS CENTRAL l SUN FEB 4, 4:30PM-6:30PM

PARIS MEMORIES – REVOIR PARIS (M) France One Saturday evening in autumn, Mia is caught in a terrorist attack on a Parisian bistro. Three months later, still unable to pick her life back up and remembering only fragments of that night, Mia decides to investigate her memories to find a way back to happiness. Despite the tragedy, “Revoir Paris” is a hopeful film about the healing power of human connection and mutual comfort. Language: In French (M) 103min For more information and to Book your tickets visit End Credits website.

WIZARD HIGH TEA @ COCO’S KITCHEN + BAR l SAT FEB 3, 11:00AM-1:00PM

Attention, aspiring witches and wizards! Your acceptance letter has arrived from Pullman Cairns International’s School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Gather your robes and wield your wands, for an enchanting adventure awaits! Step into the realm of Wizards and embrace this enchanting high tea experience. When: Running from January 2nd to 29th February Cost: Prices start at $70 - For more information and to secure your spot and immerse yourself in the enchantment visit Pullman Cairns International website.

SATURDAY Surf Club Palm Cove Anais Campbell, 2:00pm Yorkeys Knob Boating Club Carinda Christie, 3:00pm Strait on the Beach No more No Less, 3:00pm NOA Edge Hill Chistina Ukulele, 3:00pm Ten 06 Yorkeys Knob Two Dogs Music, 5:30pm Fratelli’s at Brothers Leagues Club Bad Boys of Uke, 6:30pm Cazaly’s Cairns Kick Start, 6:30pm Bosca’s Mareeba Infinity Duo, 7:00pm Tanks Arts Centre Fourplay String Quartet, 8:00pm Bar36 Reef Hotel Casino Fingerprint, 9:00pm

SUNDAY Tolga Hotel Two Dogs Music, 12:00pm O’Donnells Palm Cove Sax Man, 2:00pm

HOSPO GAMES NIGHT @ HEMINGWAY’S CAIRNS l MON FEB 5, 6:00PM-9:00PM

Come along with your mates and have fun at our games night! We have food and drink specials, prizes, and games include pool, air hockey, giant Jenga, tinny slide and more.

Dunwoody’s Hotel Cinnamon Sun, 2:00pm Yorkeys Knob Boating Club Barbary Coasters, 3:00pm Bar36 Reef Hotel Casino Coconut Kiss, 7:30pm

See your name in lights on our leaderboard. A great way to kick off your Hopso Night. For more info visit Hemingway’s Brewery Cairns Wharf website.

SUNDAY SESH @ THE AQUARIUM l SUN 4 FEB, 11:30AM-6:30PM

Treat yourself to a fun lunch experience at our Sunday Sesh at Dundee’s at the Cairns Aquarium. Our fab DJ Glenn will be playing some awesome tunes from 2pm – 5pm. Our special Sunday Seafood & Wine deal is not to be missed - our seafood platter plus a bottle of wine – all for only $130. New two bites menu (available from 3:00pm – 6:30pm). Enjoy a selection of yummy dishes at $14/per plate. Book your table though Dundees at the Cairns Aquarium. www.cairnslocalnews.com.au

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

Cairns Local News, Friday, February 2, 2024 PAGE 19

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TERMS & CONDITIONS: To be eligible for the Current Pricing and Bonus Offer, an Expression of Interest form must be signed on a prospective villa at Casa Mia Living on Stage One by 29th of February, 2024 with $5,000 deposit received in full. Bonus Offer includes no weekly general service fees for first 6 months from the date of settlement. Offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Offers are not exchangeable for cash or transferable. RLS Developments NQ Pty Ltd reserves the right to remove or alter offer at any time. Pricing is subject to change at any time without notice. Promotion starts 07.10.2023.

www.cairnslocalnews.com.au

Real Estate

Pools are wise investments

Research shows that swimming structures greatly increase the value of homes l SPECIAL REPORT

This property at 35 Granadilla Drive, Earlville, has a stunning pool. It goes to auction on site at 9.30am on February 10. Contact agent Nadine Edwards on 0423 602 606. Picture: LJ Hooker Cairns Edge Hill

ANALYSIS of properties show most of those with swimming pools are close to the coast. Ray White Group data analyst Jemima White properties said one might think that the suburbs with the most swimming pools would be in warm climates, and far from the coast. “Out of the top 10 suburbs with the most swimming pools, eight of these are coastal suburbs, 20 minutes from the coast, and two are located inland,” she said. “It begs the question: Why are homeowners spending an average of $35,000 to $100,000 to install a swimming pool when they could travel 20 minutes to the coast and access free amenities? Wouldn’t their money be better spent on adding other features to their property, such as a granny flat? “Swimming pools generally increase the value of a home at a minimum by the amount they cost to build. “So, if you install a swimming pool for $50,000 you can expect your house price to increase by a minimum $50,000. House price growth beyond that is hard to quantify. “Attempting to deduce the reasons

for differing sale prices in homes on the same street or repeat sales of the same home proves too difficult to explain solely by the addition of a swimming pool. “There are many factors that impact values such as sales in different economic environments, changing demographics of interested buyers, climate, location, renovations to other areas of the house and so on. “Therefore, analysis is unable to show whether adding a swimming pool will boost your house’s value more than its cost of construction or more than an alternative improvement such as a granny flat. “However, the popularity of swimming pools continues to grow with nearly 300,000 additional Australians living with a swimming pool since 2018, according to Roy Morgan. “‘Swimming pool’ has been the highest ranked search term in many property listing websites for the past four years, reinforcing their high demand from many prospective buyers. “So while some may live 20 minutes from the coast, adding a swimming pool to your backyard may be the key to making your property more attractive to a larger number of buyers.”

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Cairns Local News, Friday, February 2, 2024 PAGE 21

Motoring

Driver’s licences go digital Personal information secured on mobile phone through government app l NEWS | Nick Dalton QUEENSLANDERS can now store their driver’s licences digitally on their phone. The government has also assured the community that their personal information will be secure if they switch to the new Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) digital licence. TMR customer services, safety and regulation deputy director-general Geoff Magoffin said Queenslanders could now carry their driver licence, marine licence or photo identification on a mobile device. “This will provide convenience for the thousands of Queenslanders who already have everything else in their phone, including their loyalty cards, bank and credit cards,” he said. “Queenslanders can leave their wallet at home and enjoy the benefits of carrying their digital licence on their phone, safe in the knowledge their personal information is secure and private.” Mr Magoffin said the Queensland digital licence met international standards for verifying, authenticating, and keeping personal information safe, secure and private. “You can choose how much information you share and with whom you share it,”

he said. “This means your private data remains safe and secure while sharing only the necessary information to meet specific requirements. “Additionally, the app incorporates robust security protocols which have been rigorously tested. “These security measures safeguard your private information from identity theft and fraud.” “The digital licence is optional and all Queenslanders will still receive their physical cards in the mail, even if they choose to go digital. “TMR recognises people have different preferences and not everyone may be ready to embrace the digital licence. “So physical driver licences and other photo cards will continue to be issued.” The digital licence is free and accessible by downloading the Queensland Digital Licence app from the app store. “You don’t need to wait for your physical licence to expire before getting the digital licence,” Mr Magoffin said. “One of the big advantages of the digital licence is that information updates instantly,” he said. “So, if you change your address or upgrade your licence class, you will see that information straight away.”

Queensland driver’s licences can now be stored securely on a mobile phone via an app.

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Motoring Guide

GTI and R high performance models selling up a storm for German car maker

Turbo models rev up VW l NEWS | Nick Dalton

Volkswagen’s GTI and R hatches, wagons and SUVS are increasing in popularity in Australia.

www.cairnslocalnews.com.au

VOLKSWAGEN high performance sales have hit the redline with GTI and R models increasing by 264 per cent year on year to 5499 sales last year. Australia is the number one market for Tiguan R and T-Roc R in the world. The $70,000-plus drive-away, 235kW turbo all-wheel drive Tiguan R performance medium SUV led with 2227 sales in 2023 – up from 284 in 2022. The heroic compact performance SUV duo of T-Roc R and T-Roc R Grid Edition more than tripled sales to 1846 – up from 566 in 2022. The lauded new-generation Golf R, even with supply restrictions, moved from 151 deliveries in 2022, 37 deliveries in the first half of 2023, to a resurgent 309 deliveries in the second half of 2023 for a 346 full-year total. The 4.8-second 0-100km/h Golf R now returns to being available to order in Volkswagen showrooms, with next deliveries expected from June 2024. This means that every GTI and R model is now back on-sale for customers. Volkswagen’s iconic Golf GTI hot hatchback almost doubled volume from 370 deliveries in 2022 to 693 in 2023, with much higher volumes expected had supply eased earlier during last year.

As Volkswagen remains the only brand in Australia committed to both light and small segment hot hatchbacks, the Polo GTI more than doubled sales from 139 in 2022 to 387 in 2023. Likewise, the potential for the smallest fast GTI to sell in even higher volumes continues to be limited only by supply. Volkswagen passenger vehicles head of product Michelle Rowney said the sales increases for the GTI and R performance vehicles emphasised how much love the respected German brand held in the eyes of Australians. “Volkswagen’s performance GTI and R models are unrivalled in the Australian market for their blend of class, speed and dynamics, and they are more highly sought after than the limited sports models offered by mainstream brands,” she said. “Australians understand that the Polo GTI, Golf GTI, Golf R, T-Roc R and Tiguan R are attainable performance vehicles, yet they challenge a more expensive cohort in terms of interior and driving feel, and overall ability. “The fact that Volkswagen’s most premium positioned models are among the most popular in this country simply illustrates the affinity that Australians have for the brand, and how they value quality and engineering expertise.” The R range is complete in April with the Touareg R large SUV at $129,990, plus on-roads.

Cairns Local News, Friday, February 2, 2024 PAGE 23

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POOL SERVICES

PAGE 24 Cairns Local News, Friday, February 2, 2024

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