Mayor’s
l MOSSMAN/ PORT DOUGLAS
RESIDENTS of Douglas Shire are being invited to sit down with Mayor Lisa Scomazzon and her councillors for an hour-long question and answer session next month.
A council spokesman said the com-
munity was to be given one hour at the sessions at Mossman and Port Douglas.
“Are you passionate about our community?,” he said.
“Do you have questions, ideas, or feedback you’d like to share?
“Now’s your chance to make your voice heard.
“This is a fantastic opportunity to en-
Mossman businesses fed up with crime
l
MOSSMAN
| Gary ‘Gazza’ McIlroy
A SPATE of vandalism to shop fronts, property break-ins and verbal abuse hurled at business owners in Mossman has reached breaking point.
In just the last couple of weeks there have been a number of cases of smashed windows and other damage to businesses in Front St, including the Post Office, the Exchange Hotel, the old Print Shop location, Cignall Mossman, Western Road Clothing and Tack, Mossman Hotel, Beechwoods Café and the recently refurbished Services Australia building.
Beechwoods Café Owner Sharon Beechey arrives for work about 4am each day and has recently had windows broken while on the premises and being verbally abused outside the front of her business.
“When we get ready to open each morning, which is about 4am, there are small groups of people along Front
gage directly with our mayor and councillors.
“Whether you want to ask questions, find out more about local initiatives or provide valuable feedback, your participation is crucial in shaping the future of our community.
St clearly under the influence of alcohol,” she said.
“While we are setting up, certain individuals have attempted to break our windows with chairs and have then given me threatening verbal abuse when I have asked them to stop. I have replaced several windows recently.
“Like other businesses, we have had a gutful. We need a bigger police presence in Mossman.”
Mossman Hotel and Hughie’s Wine Bar owner Paul McMahon has also experienced damage to his properties.
“It seems to be mainly kids causing the problems. Enough is enough,” Mr McMahon said.
Police have been called several times, but business owners say officers have not always been available.
“After asking for police help, officers were unable to attend, apparently needing a higher authority. I’m not sure why this would be the case,” Ms Beechey said.
CONTINUED PAGE 3
The sessions are:
• Mossman Library on Tuesday, February 4 at 10am-11am
• Port Douglas Community Hall on Tuesday, February 4 at 1-2pm. Book by email: executiveoffice@douglas.qld.gov.au
“Come along, bring your friends and family and let’s work together to make our community even better. We look forward to seeing you there.”
Paul McMahon of Mossman Hotel (left), Simone Bohm of Western Road Clothing and Tack and Sharon Beechey of Beechwoods Café want more police on the streets of Mossman. Picture: Gary ‘Gazza’ McIlroy
ENTERTAINMENT
Pacific drive to emulate Route 66 from Coolangatta to Daintree
Road trip draws tourists
| Nick Dalton
TOURISM bosses have launched a campaign to drive an extra $3 billion into the state’s economy by showcasing the state by road from the Gold Coast to the Daintree.
The ‘Discover Queensland –TEQ’s Drive Tourism Marketing Strategy 2032’ aims to boost revenue from drive holidays from $9bn a year to $12bn by the 2032 Olympics.
The Sunshine State road trip aims to emulate the famous Route 66 in the US.
It comes as both the Albanese and Crisafulli governments promise $10bn to bring the Bruce Highway up to an acceptable safety standard.
The aim is for visitors to drive along the east coast and visit the many regional towns and locations with wacky Route 66-like roadside attractions, such as the giant golden gumboot at Tully, as well as making roads such as the spectacular Captain Cook Highway and the Bloomfield Track destinations in their own right.
Tourism and Events Queensland acting chief executive officer Ollie Philpot said he wanted travellers to make the 2000km-lomg ‘Pacific Coast Way’ synonymous with Queensland.
“When people think of a road trip, we want them to think of Queensland – our very own version of Route 66,” he said.
“Like Route 66 we want the Pacific Coast Way to become an iconic road trip that captivates travellers, not only in Australia, but all over the world.
“We’re not just promoting a trip, we’re creating a new way to experience Queensland. The Pacific Coast Way links coastal
havens, hinterland towns and major cities all along the east coast from the Gold Coast to Cairns, promising unforgettable adventures around every bend.
“It’s our stunning and diverse natural environment, coupled with hero tourism experiences and iconic events throughout the year that makes this road trip one to remember.
“Drive holidays are already popular in Queensland generating $9bn last year but we want
to grow that number to $12bn by 2032 and the release of our ‘Discover Queensland - Drive Tourism Marketing Strategy’ will be our road map to get there.
“We’re championing the Pacific Coast Way as our hero route, spanning 10 of our 13 tourism regions.
“Think of it as Queensland’s answer to Route 66 — a legendary drive that promises unforgettable adventures around
every bend. As well as championing the Pacific Coast Way, we’re also working on promoting the Matilda Way and Great Inland Way.
“Between the three arterial routes, they connect 90 per cent of Queensland’s key destinations. “
In February/March 2025, TEQ will launch the ‘Too Great to Wait’ campaign, part of which will include a focus on promoting driving holidays.
The campaign will be nationwide, with a key focus on Queenslanders taking a driving trip in their own state. Campaign activity will also extend in to the key interstate markets of New South Wales and Victoria, in partnership with the Qantas Group to offer exclusive deals, Luxury Escapes to offer exclusive packages and with Booking.com for the first time to deliver compelling hotel offers.
A Luxury Car Hire Ford Mustang passes the famed Rex lookout on the Captain Cook Highway at Wangetti.
Picture: Tourism Tropical North Queensland
She’s music to our ears
Much-loved instrument teacher is Douglas’ citizen of the year
l PORT DOUGLAS
| Nick Dalton
MOSSMAN music teacher Jenny Guyatt has been named the Douglas Shire’s citizen of the year for 2025.
Ms Guyatt was presented with the award by Mayor Lisa Scomazzon at the council’s Australia Day awards ceremony at Port Douglas Community Hall last Friday night.
The Mossman resident will mark 49 years of teaching brass, woodwind, string and percussion instruments to students across the Douglas Shire in April.
“Teaching instrumental music is really wonderful,” Ms Guyatt said.
“The kids enjoy playing music and they get such joy out of the music camps and the band.
“By the time they leave grade 12, I’ve been teaching many of them for a long time, more than half of their lives, so I am a constant in their lives.”
Cr Scomazzon said Ms Guyatt was a deserved recipient.
“Jenny Guyatt is a dedicated and inspiring music teacher who nurtures and encourages students, promotes the value of teamwork, comradery and the importance of voluntary service and contribution to community,” she said.
“She encourages students to focus on the qualities of a smaller community, rather than the disadvantages – we are very lucky to have her in our shire.”
Other award recipients included:
• Junior sports: Nate Martinelli
• Senior sports: Harry Cobb
• Environmental achievement: Monika Prins
• Arts and cultural: Alison George and Port Shorts
• Volunteer of the year: John Scott
• Young citizen of the year: Nikita McDonald
• Senior citizen of the year: Joan Vico
• Civic recognition award: Pam Willis Burden.
Nate Martinelli is an up-andcoming boxer. He is 15 and is training for the national championships later this year. Read about him on P23.
Harry Cobb is vice-president of Mossman Junior Rugby League and a community education counsellor at Mossman State High School.
Monika Prins helped established the Circle of Plenty community garden at Mossman. She is also the founder of Open Gardens Douglas Shire.
Alison George is the director of the Port Shorts Film Festival and owns Catseye Productions at Port Douglas.
Nikita McDonald is a Mossman State High School student and best all-rounder for 2024, a top judo player, and a Mossman Show rural ambassador runnerup.
Joan Vico is the coordinator of the Mossman markets and a life member of the Queensland Vigoro Association.
Pam Willis Burden is a member of the Douglas Shire Historical Society and an author.
John Scott is a computer guru and offers free technical advice at the Mossman Library weekly.
New Probus club doing much better than expected
l PORT DOUGLAS
| Gary ‘Gazza’ McIlroy
THE newly-formed Port Douglas and District Probus Club, which was reformed after popular demand, is flourishing.
Since its inception in October 2024, the club has gone from strength to strength, with membership numbers and general interest increasing each month.
“The popularity of the Probus Club has already surpassed our expectations,” club secretary
Chris Saint said.
On Friday, January 17, the club hosted its first outing with a cruise up Dickson Inlet on Lady Douglas.
“The occasion provided an excellent opportunity for members and prospective new members aboard to mix in an informal setting, have a chat, drink, plus eat and generally have a great time,” club publicity officer Dusty Howman said,
“It was a lovely sunny day with very calm water, even out
the front. “And yes, there was a sighting of one small crocodile which disappeared pretty quickly when it spotted the Lady Douglas heading towards it.”
The next Port Douglas and District Probus Club meeting will be held at the Port Douglas Neighbourhood Centre in Mowbray Street at 10am on February 24. For any membership inquiries or more information contact Susan Stafford via mcsusan2000@ yahoo.com
Mossman CBD crime angers township
FROM PAGE 1
The new ‘State Flying Squad’, with an increased number of full-time police officers, has been in the Far North but has been concentrating on Cairns and the Tablelands.
Both Douglas Shire Mayor Lisa Scomazzon and Member for Cook Peter Kempton are concerned.
“I am disappointed to hear about the criminal damage occurring at businesses in Mossman,” Cr Scomazzon said.
“The past 12 months has been a challenging time for many business owners and I am sure this is another frustrating setback for them,” she said.
“While crime is a police matter, I would encourage people to continue sharing their concerns with me and the other elected members. Council is always open to discussion on how to make our community safer.”
Mr Kempton said residents and businesses in Mossman had faced a spate of break-ins and smashed shop windows and were fed up with the situation.
“I have been talking to businesses and locals and, in conjunction with the Mayor Lisa Scomazzon, I am in the process of organising a public forum to develop a response to the youth crime issue to take to government.”
Police have charged an 18-year-old Kowanyama man following an alleged wilful damage incident in Mossman, on January 6.
It will be alleged in the early morning, the man caused damage to doors and windows at four businesses on Front Street.
Later that morning he was arrested and charged with four counts of wilful damage.
He was due to appear in the Mossman Magistrates Court on January 8.
About 4.30am on January 9, a 20-year-old Kowanyama woman allegedly caused damage to the window of a Front Street business. She was charged with one count each of wilful damage and commit public nuisance and received an adult caution.
Mossman police do not believe the isolated incidents are linked and encourage the public to report any suspicious behaviour.
Dougas Shire Mayor Lisa Scomazzon with citizen of the year Jenny Guyatt.
Douglas Shire Australia Day award winners and new Australian citizens. Pictures: Douglas Shire Council
Probus club members (from left) Chris Saint, Lorraine Potter, Toni Hickey, Julie Borbiro, Stafford, David Campbell and Dusty Howman on board Lady Douglas. Picture: Supplied
Proposal to be decided upon
at
future Shire council meeting
Centre for at-risk youth
l DAINTREE
| Andree Stephens
SUBMISSIONS have closed on a land use application to develop a training centre for at-risk youth near the Daintree River.
The Material Change of Use (MCU) application, submitted to the Douglas Shire Council by the Jabalbina Yalanji Aboriginal Corporation, requests 200 hectares of land, known as Daintree River Station, have its rural status changed to enable the development.
In an outline of the proposal sent to the council, the plan said the development would include accommodation and facilities which would provide “agriculturally-based vocational training and other cultural and therapeutic programs”.
“The village will include various facilities to support youth development, family reconnection and the restoration of cultural identity,” the application said.
Plans for the development were submitted to the shire council in December and a notice was published on January 6 inviting public response, which closed on January 24.
The application will be considered at a future council meeting.
The centre would include 12 accommodation units (two of which are for staff) an education centre, a chillout refuge building and facilities such as a laundry, outdoor amenities block, and storage building, to be delivered over four construction stages.
The land is on a peninsula formed by a bend in the river and the development is proposed for the northern bank, opposite the Daintree Village.
Access for participants and staff would be by barge from Upper Daintree Rd to the west side of the property.
The application said the training village would support the delivery of the Queensland Government-funded ‘Intensive on Country’ (IOC) program.
Jabalbina was selected by the former Labor government to conduct the IOC trial program from 2019.
Following extensive auditing and review of the program, it was given further funding of $7 million in August, for three years from 2024 to 2026.
Ten redacted submissions against the proposal have been submitted, mainly concerning flooding and safety and security concerns.
Jabalbina and the Department of Justice did not respond to requests for comment.
l FAR NORTH
MORE than $80 million has been spent on emergency and critical stabilisation works throughout the Far North following Tropical Cyclone Jasper a year ago.
A Department of Transport and Main Roads spokesman said while that work was being done, the department planned and designed the permanent reconstruction works detailed in January 15’s Douglas Gazette.
TMR is focused on repairing priority routes: Kennedy Highway on the Kuranda Range, Palmerston Highway, Captain Cook Highway, MossmanMount Molloy Rd and Mossman-Daintree Rd.
All work is on target to be completed by mid-2026, weather permitting.
The spokesman said the program cost was subject to further review as funding submissions were prepared and lodged with the Queensland Reconstruction Authority and following procurement with confirmed tender prices for all projects.
“The allocation of funding is determined based on where damage is incurred and to reinstate damaged sites to their predisaster function,” he said.
“Recovery works will support regional jobs at numerous damage sites across Far North Queensland.”
An artist’s impression of the aerial view of the proposed training centre from the south east in the Daintree. Picture: Hunt Design
Waterfall safety warning
l FAR NORTH
A JAMES Cook University scientist is warning of the drowning danger posed by waterfalls as people head outdoors and look to cool off.
Richard Franklin, professor of public health at JCU, said a surprising number of people had died at waterfalls and waterholes, which could contain hidden dangers from slippery rocks to unexpected currents to turbulent water.
He said the deaths of two teenagers at a waterfall on the Sunshine Coast recently, the death of a 30-year-old man at a waterfall near Cairns on January 13, and the death of a 55-year-old man at a waterfall also near Cairns on December 29 only serve to underscore the dangers.
“While many of us know about the risks of drowning in the ocean, rivers are actually more deadly. Over the past 22 years, slightly more people have drowned in rivers and creeks than any other body of water. The drowning figures from 2022–23 show 76 people died in rivers and creeks, compared to 75 at beaches,” said Professor Franklin. He said waterfalls were particularly dangerous because when water cascaded it often carved out a deep pool, known as a plunge pool. “Where the waterfall hits the pool, it creates turbulence and currents. If large volumes of water are falling, the pressure can be enough to push people underneath.”
Walking street concept
Business owners want Grant St to become pedestrian-only zone
l
| Gary ‘Gazza’ McIlroy
A CAMPAIGN is underway to persuade authorities to turn Grant St, or fondly known as ‘Eat St’, in Port Douglas into a pedestriansonly precinct.
The street is popular for both locals and visitors to grab lunch, an evening meal or just a takeaway. The intention is to close the street to traffic except for deliveries.
Business owners Johnny Wilson and his wife Nittaya Bokboon, of It’s Up To You Thai restaurant in Grant St, believe closure of the road to traffic would enhance the dining experience for customers and would allow the grassed area on one side of the street to be used for musical entertainment, possibly small markets or simply just a peaceful view.
“It just makes so much sense to make this area pedestrian-only and utilise the beautiful green area opposite,” Mr Wilson said.
“They’ve done this sort of thing in Cairns and it has worked. Maybe we could give the idea a threemonth trial and, if it doesn’t work, then fair enough,” he said.
Regular Grant St users are also keen to see improved toilets in the area. Currently, there is only one serving the busy area.
On the downside, it would mean the closure of the street to traffic and the loss of about 15 parking spaces.
Those keen on the proposal don’t believe it should really make a huge difference to this area of Port Douglas with other nearby routes available and alternative parking options.
Port Douglas local and regular Grant Street user Bob Francis said “people often leave their cars running when picking up a takeaway, so the road closure would certainly mean less pollution for people eating”.
Business owner Joyce Coyle, from the nearby Port Cosmetic Clinic, also felt the idea made sense.
“It seems such a great idea for one of Port’s most popular eating areas to be more private,” she said. Douglas Shire Council said a community engagement survey was held on the topic in 2020.
“Some concerns raised at that time included the loss of car parking spaces and potential objections from Macrossan St operators, however, a key concern is that any construction to create a dining precinct and either fully or partially close the road would disrupt traders,” Mayor Lisa Scomazzon said.
“(The) council is already investing in Grant St, with plans to upgrade its public amenities,” she said.
“The single toilet in Rotary Park will be replaced with four toilets – two unisex toilets, one ambulant unisex toilet and one unisex accessible toilet.”
Grant St business owners Nittaya Bokboon (left) and Johnny Wilson Picture: Gary ‘Gazza” McIlroy
Local Indigenous earrings produced from natural products Local Briefs
Made by hand with love
l MOSSMAN
| Dave Lornie
INDIGENOUS artist Nikisha Missionary has been tapping into her family’s culture to produce earrings from natural materials.
Ms Missionary describes herself as “a proud KuKu Yalanji woman from Mossman Gorge/ Daintree (rainforest people).”
“I grew up in many places and had great experiences and friendship along the way but my home is Mossman Gorge community – population 248 – a small community 10-minutes’ drive from the Mossman township,” she said.
“One of my grandmothers taught me how to weave earrings about a year ago and I kept going as the inspiration came to me,” she said.
“I also teach others to weave to share my culture. I use natural raffia grass and sometimes pandas leaves.”
The process of weaving and teaching the process is enjoyable for Ms Missionary and is a good way to connect with her culture.
“I love the enjoyment of sitting and learning about each other’s experiences and journeys while learning about my culture at the same time,” she said.
“Sharing a piece of my crea-
tion through my weaving is the best thing ever I get to see people wearing them and promoting my beautiful artwork,” she said
The creative process was hard at first but became easier with practice.
“At first, when I started learning how to weave, it was a little hard,” Ms Missionary said.
“(Though) over time I kept going and then I started weaving. Since then I’ve learnt that patience is the key to weaving.”
The earrings are popular and bought by mostly Indigenous people from all over the country.
“I promote all my hand-woven earrings on my Instagram page @KRM Weaving91.
“Sometimes my grandma Irene and other family members will promote my earrings on their own Facebook pages and sometimes in person,” she said.
“I have always wanted to learn how to weave to teach and pass this unique skill and experience onto our families and next generations,” Ms Missionary
said. “I know weaving has been in our lives and culture from our ancestors and elders who have been teaching and passing it on for years,” she said.
“Sadly it has died out as we have lost our ancestors and elders, I want to start working with my community and others to regain this unique skills.”
l PLAYGROUND
AAA Playscapes has been awarded a contract to upgrade Bruno Reidwig Park in Port Douglas. Work on the project started on Monday. A Douglas Shire Council spokesman said the project involved replacing the existing junior playground equipment, which had reached the end of its life.
“Additionally, all sand soft fall will be removed and replaced with Australian standards rubber soft fall to ensure a safer and more durable play surface,” he said. The junior playground will be closed until February 10.
l ROAD WORKS
MORE than $7 million will be spent fixing dozens of unsealed roads across the Douglas Shire which were damaged in the December 2023 flooding event. Douglas Shire split the work into two contracts, awarding MC Group the contract for all roads south of Daintree River, and Gulf Civil Pty Ltd the contract for the repair of unsealed roads between Daintree River and Cape Tribulation. The work is being funded jointly by the Australian and Queensland governments through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA). The contract awarded to the Gulf Civil Pty Ltd was for $4,325,344. This will be claimed back from Queensland Reconstruction Authority.
Nikisha Missionary models some of the earrings she has made from natural materials. Pictures: Supplied
Cemetery now spic and span
l PORT DOUGLAS
IN RESPONSE to concerns raised by the public, Douglas Shire Council has cleaned up the Port Douglas cemetery.
A council spokesman said the cemetery (above) “has been mowed, sprayed and brush cut. Herbicide has been used on any weeds still present.”
This is a win for concerned locals who were upset that Mossman Cemetery had been well-maintained over the festive season, while Port Douglas had become overgrown with weeds.
After complaints were made via this newspaper recently the council confirmed the Port Douglas cemetery had been thoroughly cleaned and maintained prior to the council’s shutdown period over Christmas and New Year.
This resulted in some natural regrowth occurring over the holidays.
After the holidays, a council officer inspected the site and arranged for the open spaces team to conduct a clean-up. This work was recently completed and the cemetery is back to looking its best.
Farmer fears dingo kill
Wild dogs have taken a prized rooster and ducks on local holding
l CRAIGLIE
| Dave Lornie
DINGOES have killed a prized rooster and some special ducks on a Douglas Shire farm.
Barney McBride of the Tara Hill Stud said he recently lost a valued pure-bred rooster to a wild dingo.
“This latest attack on our poultry occurred in broad daylight with traffic and humans only 20m away,” he told the Gazette.
“We have lost several domesticallybred Cayuga and Musgrave ducks and are down to about 10 per cent of the original flock of Cayugas.
“Our cows are due to calve and now we have a greater concern that the newborn calves may become a target for these four-legged predators, particularly if they hunt in packs.”
Mr McBride said he would be grateful if the dingoes were relocated away from people and valuable livestock, including “poor defenceless chickens and ducks”.
Homeless Animal Society and Boarding Kennels Inc treasurer Pauline Halsall said there was public talk of eliminating natural predators like dingoes and wild dogs.
“This raises significant concerns about the potential use of 1080 poison, a method that poses serious risks to local wildlife and the environment,” she said.
“Historically, dingoes and wild dogs served as natural regulators of rodent populations in sugar cane fields, contributing to a balanced ecosystem.
“However, as property owners decide to transition away from sugar cane and seek to diversify their agricultural practices, the perceived need to eliminate dingoes, wild dogs, and other natural pests becomes a pressing issue.
“This has led to discussions about reintroducing 1080 as a pest control method – an approach that warrants careful scrutiny.”
Ms Halsall said the belief that 1080 was a target-specific solution was a dangerous myth.
“Research indicates that the poison can indiscriminately harm various nontarget species, leading to significant collateral damage among local wildlife,” she said.
“With evidence showing that up to 99 per cent of baits can be consumed by non-target animals, the environmental impact of 1080 could be devastating. This poses a severe risk to the delicate balance of Douglas Shire’s ecosystems, which property owners may inadvertently jeopardise.”
The council has been contacted about the attacks on Mr McBride’s farm.
Earlier this month the council installed temporary warning signs at the Port Douglas Sports Complex and permanent education signs would be erected as well.
“Residents and visitors are encouraged to visit (the) council’s website to learn about how to be dingo safe, Queensland laws and regulations, and community responsibility when it comes to dingoes,” he said.
A petition to save the dingoes by resident Rosie Wang has garnered 1322 signatures.
Barney McBride fears a newly-born calf on his property will be attacked and killed by dingoes.
Picture: Supplied
HYPNOTIC CONFIDENCE
What lies behind your thoughts?
Hi there and welcome to my second Hypnotic Confi dence column. I’m Dave, a Cairns-based Certifi ed Clinical Hypnotherapist and Hypnotic Life Coach. I’m the lead therapist at Confi-denceControl, where I blend hypnotherapy with life coaching to help people break the destruc-tive habits and thought patterns which are holding them back.
This week, I’ll talk a bit about your subconscious mind. You may not realise it, but your conscious mind – or your thinking mind – only accounts for five percent of your mental capacity.
The other 95 percent is your subconscious mind, and that’s the part which takes care of all the important stuff keeping you alive – heart rate, breathing, digestion etc. And let’s face it, if we consciously had to think about doing all that, we’d be in trouble!
Your subconscious mind is also where your feelings are generated and your memories are stored. It holds all your beliefs about yourself and how you perceive yourself – in other words, the type of person you believe you are.
These beliefs stored in your subconscious mind have a huge impact on how you experience your life. If you hold negative beliefs about yourself at the subconscious level, you will tend to experience negative realities in your life. (If you think you’re no good, guess what, you will live your life like you’re no good.)
So, here’s an example of the power of your subconscious mind. Imagine that you’re four or five years old, you’re in the kitchen and a spider runs out. Mum screams and jumps on a chair, and your subconscious mind says “that’s the appropriate response to those things because mum just did it and that’s who we’re learning from”. That goes into your mind and onto your map of reality – how you navigate the World.
Then, for every spider you see for the rest of your life, your mind produces a fear response. You tense up, your heart beats faster and you start to sweat, even though your logical mind is now saying “that’s tiny, it can’t possibly harm me”. However, all of that logical stuff is being
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rejected by your subconscious mind because it doesn’t match up with what you already know: Spiders are scary!
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Dave is a Cairns-based Clinical Hypnotherapist and Hypnotic Life Coach who works online. He is university educated and vocationally trained in delivering evidence-based psychoeducation, including CBT and Solution-Focused Therapy. He is a clinical member of the Australian Guild of Hypnotherapists (GoAH) and the Hypnotherapy Council of Australia (HCA). His website is: https://www.confidencecontrol.com.au/
$50m power renovations Mossman electricity substation works
l MOSSMAN
| Nick Dalton
WORK is well underway on a $50 million upgrade of the Mossman electricity substation and other works in the Douglas Shire.
locked in,” he said.
“Planned outages are sometimes necessary to give crews safe access to the electricity network and to help them to get the job done more efficiently.”
powerline network, as well as on the area’s associated underground communications networks.”
Ergon is aiming to commission the new works by the middle of the year.
Hypnotherapy is a powerful, proven method that can change your negative thought patterns and subconscious beliefs which are disrupting your mental wellbeing. It works by communicating directly with the most powerful and creative part of your mind, putting you back in charge of your own thoughts and responses. With hypnotherapy, you can change almost any current behaviour that you are unhappy with. Hypnotherapy can help with the following:
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Ergon Energy’s Far North area manager Charlie Casa said the upgrade, which would have long term benefits including a new transformer, control building and other equipment, was designed to support future growth in the area.
“The Mossman substation supplies more than 3300 homes and businesses, so it’s a key piece of community infrastructure and a cornerstone of development that we’re making a significant investment in,” he said.
The Douglas Shire network upgrade includes the installation of overhead fibre-optic cable on the electricity transmission network, establishing critical communication links between three substations at Mossman, Turkinje and Craiglie. The substations supply more than 30,000 customers.
“This upgrade will help us improve fault response and reduce the impact of unplanned outages on our customers in these areas,” Mr Casa said.
“The Douglas Shire network upgrade is a major project with a lot of moving parts, so we’ll be keeping our customers and communities updated with all the details whenever work is
The Mossman Substation, at the base of the Rex Range (near Shannonvale/Cassowary), is being upgraded from 66/22kV to 132/22kV substation.
“This investment, along with the associated works at Yalkula substation, near Mount Molloy, and at the Craiglie substation, near Port Douglas, will address both power reliability and safety risks associated with the age of the Mossman substation and support the growing the demand for electricity in the area,” Ergon said.
“The substation supplies the Mossman township and surrounding communities through the local 22kV electricity network. It is currently supplied from Turkinje zone substation, near Mareeba, via two 66kV feeder lines that travel to Mount Molloy and then down the Rex Range.
“In the future, it will be supplied by a new connection to the Turkinje zone substation (through the 132kV transmission lines).
“As part of the upgrade, works have been undertaken on these lines, with some work still ongoing.
“As part of the substation upgrade, works have also been undertaken across the local 22kV
“We are committed to minimising the impact on the community while we manage the transition to the upgraded network,” it said.
“We recognise the community has experienced several major outages over the storm season.
“Once the new arrangements are in place, some sections of the 66kV lines will be removed, between Mount Molloy and Mossman where the line crosses the Rex Range and Wet Tropics area.”
Douglas Shire Mayor Cr Lisa Scomazzon said the council was pleased that Ergon continued to invest in the region’s power network.
“Reducing the frequency of unplanned outages and upgrading infrastructure to improve response times will be welcomed by the entire community,” she said.
Ergon said it always notified affected customers with the details by mail and they could register for free SMS or email outage notifications at https://bit.ly/42qQYTM Members of the community can also see more information about the upgrades at https://bit.ly/3PLOkjL
A crane lifts a transformer off a semi-trailer at Mossman. Picture: Ergon Energy
Rob Barnett, Port Douglas
Katherina Hunter, Port Douglas
THIS WEEK’S QUESTION Has crime affected you at Mossman? If so, give us some details. @thedouglasgazette
Leave them alone and stop the drama of this question. People roaming around are a problem, not the dingoes.
- Rosemary Aquilina, Facebook
Leaving them alone will sadly lead to exactly what happens on Fraser Island.
- Daniel McCarthy, Facebook
Leave them be and put signs up just like the crocodile warning signs – Croc Wise/Dingo Wise.
- Ninetta Campagna Fornera, Facebook
- John Nicholas, Facebook In the last edition we asked: What should be done about the dingoes in Port Douglas? Here are some of your submissions.
Same as with roaming kids, house them, feed them and send them on their merry way. - Ernst
Leave them be.
They need to be managed to ensure they don’t attack children, people, domestic animals or farm animals such as calves, chickens or ducks. If they do, they must be caught and taken far away from the Port Douglas area. The backpackers who have been feeding them should be fined and sent on their way out of town too.
by:
Send your snapped memories of the Douglas Shire to us –
Sahm, Facebook
- Katrina Johnston, Janine Slater, Jenni Walker, Valerie Mandall and Maggie Hards, Facebook
Flagsta Hill walking trail.
Picture
Tourism Tropical North Queensland
Gazza’sGossip
Douglas stars shine in Cairns
l PORT DOUGLAS
TWO Douglas Shire residents, Narelle Spencer and Stephen Bigby, have recently played key roles in ‘Come From Away’ a Cairns Choral Society musical production that started earlier in January at the Cairns Performing Arts Centre and ended on January 18.
Narelle has lived in Cooya Beach for 18 years and Stephen, for a number of years in Mossman.
Both are well known in the Douglas Shire, having appeared in many performances at the Clink Theatre and, outside of their acting interests, they are both valued workers at Mossman Hospital.
I was privileged to have both of these talented people on my radio show recently and saw signs for the musical around Port Douglas.
I was intrigued to know where the name ‘Come From Away’ originated from, what it meant and what the musical was all about.
To help explain, it is probably easier to start with a description of the musical itself, which was inspired by the extraordinary events of September 11, 2001.
The story itself is more related to the following day, September 12, after 38 planes were forced out of US air space the day before and were unexpectedly diverted to the small town of Gander in Canada’s most easterly province, Newfoundland.
Overnight, the town’s population doubled following the unexpected arrival of 7000 stranded passengers.
Nicknamed ‘come from aways’, the plane people found themselves welcomed
into the open arms of the ‘Islander’ locals who rallied together, providing shelter, food and comfort in the wake of the global tragedy and one of the 21st century’s darkest days.
Newfoundland originally got its name from New Finland. Locals would refer to visitors as people who had ‘come from away’.
Another question I had for my guests was how such a tragic event, arguably one of the world’s worst, could result in an upbeat musical?
Being more about the events of September 12, Narelle explained, than the tragic events of 9/11, the story demonstrates the resilience of the human spirit, highlighting how kindness and compassion shines brightest in adversity.
This is a quality every Far North Queenslander has experienced, most recently following the catastrophic floods in the aftermath of Tropical Cyclone Jasper.
To further enhance this, apart from the superb acting, the onstage band has also been hitting its high notes with a musical score that blends traditional musical theatre styles with Newfoundland-inspired orchestrations that echo the region’s Irish influences.
The shows were a great success.
I’m off to break a leg or as they say Down Under in the theatrical world, chookas, so for now it’s Gazza signing out.
Send your stories to gazza@ cairnslocalnews.com.au
Douglas Shire performers Narelle Spencer and Stephen Bigby. Picture: Gary ‘Gazza’ McIlroy Top and above: The cast on stage at the Cairns Performing Arts Centre. Pictures: Supplied
Entertainment
Douglas Shire to host first literary event to showcase authors and their books
Festival to lure wordsmiths
l MOSSMAN/ PORT DOUGLAS
| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez
A WORLD of literature and local writing prowess is within reach for Douglas’ bookworms with the announcement of the inaugural Douglas Shire Book Festival coming to Mossman and Port Douglas this August.
The dream of hundreds of book lovers in the Douglas Shire of having a festival right at their doorstep has become a reality as the first Douglas Shire Book Festival, aiming to showcase local authors, great market stalls, entertainment, panels and author talks, is coming on August 2 and 3. Festival president, author and founder of Bowerbird Publishing Crystal Leonardi said this had been a project in the making since 2023.
“2023 was the first year I attended the Cairns Tropical Writers Festival and I came away from it wishing we had an event like that north of Cairns, some-
thing closer to home,” she said.
“In 2024, with some Bowerbird authors and friends we said: ‘Wouldn’t it be incredible if we could do something on a smaller scale with just our local authors’, rather than headliners and international authors – which is what CTWF does best – and find a happy middle ground, something relaxed.
“As a small business owner, I wasn’t prepared to fund this brand-new venture myself but I did apply for some funding through grants and we finally received the Douglas Shire RADF grant in August or September of last year.”
The first Douglas Shire Book Festival will take place at the Mossman Community Hall on Saturday, August 2 and at the Port Douglas Community Centre on Sunday, August 3 to make the most of the people coming out of the Mossman and Port Douglas markets.
“We’re hoping to get the extra traffic through the halls before and after the markets. The halls will be filled with market stalls, we’ll have entertainers, food and
beverage vans and a very casual and laid-back atmosphere where people can come and speak to the authors,” Ms Leonardi said.
“We will have panels and author talks approximately six for the whole day and we just want to keep it casual and it will be a free event for the community, which is really exciting, because it means people can go on both days and we’re really focusing on local talent.
“We are accepting expressions of interest from authors across Australia, but we ideally would like to keep it Queensland, if not North Queensland authors.
“I can’t reveal yet who are some of the authors coming but what I can tell you is that we’ve been contacted by internationally award-winning authors from our region who don’t enjoy the big festival atmosphere and want to be a part of something local.”
For more information, visit https://bit.ly/4anc9Yu, for expressions of interest email douglasshirebookfestival@ gmail.com
The Douglas Shire Book Festival committee at the RADF grant recipient ceremony last month. Accepting the certificate (from left) Sam Woodgarth, Chantal Munro, Jancy-Leigh Marrinon, Douglas Shire Mayor Lisa Scomazzon, Rob Hubbard, Robyn Ross and Georgie Montague. Absent: Crystal Leonardi. Picture: Supplied
Author and Douglas Shire Book Festival president Crystal Leonardi is looking forward to the first event later this year. Picture: Supplied
Entertainment Guide
Fresh faces for carnival
Italian Festival unveils exciting program
l
CAIRNS REGION
| Andree Stephens
FROM pasta making demonstrations, to a female accordionist performing hot off her European tour, this year’s Cairns Italian festival promises to have “more of everything”, according to festival president Claudio Di Bartolomeo.
On top of the usual famous bands that are now part of the Cairns Italian Festival family, this year’s week-long event brings in some new faces to build the festival’s entertainment reputation.
Bringing some MC flair to the festival events are Simone Barbieri and Marco Petta, from Radio Italiana, which airs in Brisbane and Adelaide.
Also new to the event will be Melbourne-based Nikki Dagostino, one of Australia’s most entertaining piano accordionists.
“Nikki will be touring in Europe but is coming back just to be at our festival,” Mr Di Bartolomeo said.
And this year the festival introduces Viva la Diva, three Italian female vocalists who have joined forces for the festival.
“The singers formed just for us, and we’ll launch them, just as we did the Italian Stallions last year,” Mr Di Bartolomeo said.
Other new events to debut this year are Opera in the Rainforest and the long lunch, La Dolce Vita.
The popular Festa Day would also be bigger and better with “more entertainment, more food, and more interactive stalls” Mr Di Bartolomeo said.
Aiming to top last year’s 36 food stalls, 2025 stalls made up of local and family businesses will feature authentic Italian dishes from arancini and wood-fired pizza, to the classic desserts of cannoli, gelato and tiramisu. All of which will be complemented by the best Italian wines and other beverages.
People can also watch and learn as interactive demonstrations are delivered in the art of
making pasta, mozzarella, burrata and sausage.
Now in its third year, the Cairns Italian Festival will run from Thursday, July 24 to Sunday, August 3, and Cairns Regional Council and the state government have added their support to the many sponsors in 2025.
Festival favourites such as the spaghetti eating competition, Tastes of Italy, Italian speaking contest, theatre, the gala ball, and Mareeba’s Salami Sausage Festa will also make their return.
“There is so much work done in the background, it doesn’t really stop year-round,” Mr Di Bartolomeo said.
“But the best thing about festival week is festival week. You get to see what you have achieved,” he said.
“What I love about it is it brings the community together. Everyone is happy, our old people are happy.
“We are keeping our traditions and culture alive.”
MORNING MELODIES
The Great British Songbook
Craig Martin performs some of the greatest hits from the UK. This is a musical Brit-Pop feast not to be missed!
MONDAY 3 MARCH
Great Women of Country
Melinda Schneider, six-time Golden Guitar Award winner, performs songs from country music’s greatest female singers.
MONDAY 31 MARCH
From Stage to Screen
Jonathon Welch AM, award winning singer and conductor, lends his voice to favourite songs from the stage and screen.
MONDAY 2 JUNE
For the Love of Tony & Friends
Chris Lloyds sings Tony Bennet
MONDAY 11 AUGUST
Wonder
From award-winning creators, comes a brand-new show celebrating some of the greatest hit singles in the world!
MONDAY 13 OCTOBER
Home for Christmas
Darren Coggan celebrates the festive spirit of Christmas in Australia through a collection of songs and stories.
MONDAY 1 DECEMBER
Melbourne-based accordionist Nikki Dagostino. Picture: Supplied
What's on
COMMUNITY GRANTS INFO @ TIN SHED
l TUE FEB 4 & THU FEB 13
Are you interested in applying for a grant or would like to learn more about grant opportunities?
Douglas Shire Council are holding two sessions to help with that:
The Tin Shed: Tuesday February 4th from 9:30am–11:30am.
Mossman Shire Hall: Thursday February 13th from 4pm–6pm
For further information, email enquiries@ douglas.qld.gov.au or call 4099 9444
STEPPING FORWARDS @ MOSSMAN SUPPORT SERVICES
l WED FEB 19, 1:00PM-3:00PM
Is someone in your family or a friend using drugs and/or alcohol? Are you looking for practical, down-to-earth information and support? This workshop covers - effective communication, strategies on how to communicate with people using substances, discussion on what works and what doesn’t, plus some practical and simple tips that will make a difference. Everyone is welcome. For information call Shammah on 0490 799 180 or email: shammah@fds.org.au
GRANT WRITING WORKSHOPS @ MOSSMAN LIBRARY
l WED FEB 5 & FRI FEB 14
If you are interested in gaining some extra skills to improve your success with grant opportunities, then sign up now!
Douglas Shire Council is hosting two workshops: Mossman Library: Wednesday February 5th from 9am–11:30am.
Port Douglas Community Hall: Friday February 14th from 9am–11:30am.
Limited spaces are available. To book email enquiries@douglas.qld.gov.au or call 4099 9444
SAVANNAH EXPEDITIONS @ PORT DOUGLAS
l BOOK VIA THE WEBSITE
Embark on the ultimate luxury expedition adventure, aboard Australia’s exclusive super yacht Savannah. Equipped to reach the most remote and pristine locations in absolute comfort, Savannah offers a truly unparalleled experience in exploring the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef and the Coral Sea.
Find our more at https://bit.ly/4hv6tOO
GIRLS NIGHT OUT @ SHERATON GRAND MIRAGE
l SAT FEB 15
Our epic annual, Girl’s Night Out is back as a featured event in our Month of Love at the Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, Port Douglas. Enjoy a night of food, live music and fabulous company in the air-conditioned comfort of Harrisons. Once again we are partnering with Mossman Support Services to raise funds to support the important work they do. Book your tickets at: www.eventbrite.com.au or follow this link: https://bit.ly/3E8rYq8
SEE YOUR EVENT HERE @ DOUGLAS GAZETTE
l EVERYDAY
Do you have an event coming up? Sport, theatre, music, or special event - don’t forget to let us know and we can list your event in our What’s On section in the paper. It’s free and every fortnight.
Send your event or activity to admin@douglasgazette.com.au or phone Kath or Amelie on 4031 7678 to find out more.
*Please check with the Venues regarding any cancellations or entry requirements.
Friday 31st
Paddy’s Irish Pub
Live Music, 8:00pm (estimated)
Friday 7th
Paddy’s Irish Pub
Live Music, 8:00pm (estimated)
Rattle’N’Hum Palm Cove
Andrea & Louie, 8:00pm
Saturday 1st
Paddy’s Irish Pub
Live Music, 8:00pm (estimated)
Rattle’N’Hum Palm Cove
Liam Sciacca, 8:00pm
Saturday 8th
Paddy’s Irish Pub
Live Music, 8:00pm (estimated)
Rattle’N’Hum Palm Cove
Bourban Gorillas, 8:00pm
www.douglasgazette.com.au/gig-guide
Sunday 2nd
Paddy’s Irish Pub
Live Music, 5:00pm (estimated)
Rattle’N’Hum Palm Cove
Cam Kettle, 3:00pm
Sunday 9th
Paddy’s Irish Pub
Live Music, 5:00pm (estimated)
Rattle’N’Hum Palm Cove
Janna Mercedes, 3:00pm
Puzzles in Paradise
SUDOKU
Solutions
Enter digits from 1 to 9 into the blank spaces. Every row must contain one of each digit. So must every column, as must every 3x3 square.
WORD SEARCH
Weekly Horoscopes
Pamper yourself; the boost in selfesteem will be deeply rewarding. Minor health issues could arise from exhaustion, so take care of yourself. Support others but prioritise your own needs. Ensure proper safety checks before heading out. Business or leisure travel will prove enlightening.
Keep in mind that your budget is limited right now. Females might place extra demands or responsibilities on you. Avoid confrontations unless you fully understand the situation. While your intuition is sharp, it could land you in trouble if you speak too bluntly.
Small business ideas can bring in extra income. You’ll seek creative ways to boost your earnings. Be honest to resolve issues effectively. You might find yourself caught in the middle of a disagreement unrelated to you.
Avoid meddling in other people’s problems to prevent misinterpretation. Consider starting a small part-time business with trusted friends or relatives. Strengthen your reputation by treating loved ones with respect. Be cautious about committing your time or finances.
Opportunities for new and exciting relationships will come your way if you join groups. Things are looking bright, so seize the
Don’t seek revenge without knowing all the facts. Remember, you can’t help everyone. Discussing your concerns with trusted individuals will help resolve any issues. Be cautious about giving your heart to someone who might not meet your standards.
There may be issues involving a will or insurance policy. Elderly family members might test your patience this week. Romantic opportunities could arise, but ensure your intentions are genuine before pursuing them. Watch for heightened emotions with your partner.
You’ll take an interest in foreign cultures. Focus on dealing with institutional matters, government agencies, and private concerns this week. Joining groups will present opportunities for fresh and exciting relationships. Shopping for bargains will lift your spirits.
Think carefully before engaging with someone who refuses to see reason. Attend social activities or sporting events to meet interesting people. Enjoy some socialising this week. If possible, dedicate time to home improvements.
CROSSWORD
Romance may spark through social events or short trips. Family interactions could be challenging this week. Avoid being too quick to cut ties with those who disappoint you. Double-check your information before making statements to avoid mistakes.
You might feel frustrated with those you live with. Recognise the value you bring to others. Avoid overspending just to impress. You could discover someone has been less than truthful with you.
Unexpected events may be unsettling. Travel will bring opportunities for new romantic connections. Look into selfimprovement through better dietary habits and daily routines. Be mindful of overspending to avoid difficulties.
ACROSS
1. a tube or channel for conveying substances such as air or fluid (4)
3. a large, thick, flat piece of material (4)
6. relating to the nose or its functions (5)
10. the outermost layer of skin that provides a protective barrier (9)
11. a trembling or vibration of the earth, typically caused by an earthquake (5)
12. the organ where food is digested (7)
13. an exclamation of surprise or emphasis, derived from “God’s truth” (7)
14. to remove an article of clothing, especially a hat, as a gesture of respect (4)
16. relating to the skin (6)
18. the organ responsible for hearing and maintaining balance in the body (3)
21. a dance step or movement, or a way of moving in a particular style (3)
22. to become less severe, intense, or harsh; to give in or yield after initially resisting (6)
23. the outer layer of a living being that acts as a protective barrier (4)
25. the tube through which eggs pass from
the ovary to the uterus in female animals (7)
27. relating to the adrenal glands (7)
29. the joint connecting the foot to the leg (5)
30. the long, tube-like organ in the digestive system (9)
31. traditional, portable, circular tents used by nomadic people (5)
32. the part of the body at the end of the arm, used for gripping, touching, and manipulating objects (4)
33. a blood vessel that carries blood toward the heart (4) DOWN
1. wearing formal clothes (7,2)
2. a cotton twill fabric (5)
4. a type of white blood cell involved in the immune response (5,4)
5. the underlying support for an idea (5)
6. the two openings in the nose (8)
7. the destruction or sinking of a ship (9)
8. a clear fluid that circulates through the lymphatic system (5)
9. relating to the kidneys (5)
15. a person who searches for gold, minerals, or precious stones (9)
17. a borough of New York City known for its iconic skyline and Central Park (9)
19. a blood vessel that carries deoxygenated blood from the kidneys back to the inferior vena cava, which returns it to the heart (5,4)
20. a piece of clothing worn on the lower part of the body (8)
24. the joint connecting the hand to the forearm (5)
25. the female reproductive organ that produces eggs (5)
26. the part of the body between the hip and the knee (5)
28. a sound, especially one that is loud, unpleasant, or disrupts normal conditions (5)
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l MOSSMAN GORGE
Motoring
BMW tops luxury segment
German importer hits No.1 – well ahead of arch rivals Mercedes Benz and Audi
l SALES REPORT
| Nick Dalton
BMW has reaffirmed its leadership as Australia’s top-selling premium automotive brand for the second consecutive year, recording 26,341 new vehicle registrations in 2024 – the second best year for the brand.
Sales were up 0.6 per cent by 157 units. Second place Mercedes-Benz was 17.8 per cent down (4326 units) to 19,989. Audi was third on 15,333 – a fall of 19.65 per cent (3706). In fourth was Lexus, a decrease of 10.2 per cent (1550) to 13,642. Volvo was fifth on 8898, a drop of 20 per cent (2230). Sixth-place Porsche had healthy growth of 16.1 per cent (977) to 7029.
A BMW Australia spokeswoman said the brand outperformed its closest competitor by more than 6000 vehicles.
“BMW’s positive results, not only secure its premium leadership position, but also underscores the brand’s enduring appeal in the market,” she said.
“A key driver in this success was the X sports activity vehicle (SAV) model range, which accounted for 62 per cent of total sales, with 16,491 registrations.
“The BMW X1 was the brand’s best-selling model for the second year running, with 4536 vehicles delivered to customers. This was followed by the X3 with 3374 units and the X5 with 3157 units. It was also a year that saw a record achievement for BMW’s X7 and 7 Series flagship models.
“The brand’s BEV line-up saw significant growth in 2024, accounting for 29.6 per cent of total BMW sales. A recordbreaking 7787 BEVs were registered, marking the highest EV sales since BMW began selling EVs in Australia in 2014, securing an 8.5 per cent share of the EV market.
“The iX1 was the top-selling electric vehicle with 2618 units sold, followed by the i4 with 2062 units, the iX2 with 1280 units and the iX3 with 1092.
“Australia also remains one of
the strongest markets for BMW M performance models, further emphasising the brand’s diverse product appeal.”
A total of 5631 M models sold, an increase of 15 per cent compared with 2024 and representing a 21.4 per cent sales share of total BMW sales compared with the previous year.
Chief executive officer Wolfgang Buechel said “a company’s success doesn’t rely on just one factor, but rather a combination of responsible actions and a dedicated team driving progress”.
“While our product range is central to what we sell, our success also hinges on the innovation that defines our brand,” he said.
“This ensures that we continually evolve and transform our business.
“Equally important are the people who make it all possible – my team, our dealer network and our valued customers – and the way we position and promote our brand, all while acting as a responsible corporate citizen.”.
BMW Australia chief executive officer Wolfgang Buechel. Picture: BMW Australia
Motoring Guide
Interest rates and high cost of living to take its toll on vehicle sales in 2025
Tough outlook after record
l SALES REPORT
| Nick Dalton
A NEW record for vehicle sales in 2024 is receiving a subdued reaction from the industry as consumers face a tough start to 2025 caused by economic and political challenges.
The monthly December VFACTS result showed that 95,895 new vehicles were sold during the month, 2.7 per cent lower than the same period in 2023. This resulted in 1,220,607 new vehicle sales for the full year, an increase of 0.3 per cent on 2024 and the best result recorded in Australia.
Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries chief executive Tony Weber said that, while very strong sales in the first half of 2024 set up the fullyear result, the momentum in the market was lost as the year progressed.
“The second half of the year showed a concerning trend with sales in the private segment falling to very low levels as interest rates and general cost of living pressures impacted Australian families,” he said.
“Customers are also increasingly making choices regarding environmental outcomes and the associated total cost of ownership of moving to low emissions technologies.
“So, while the sales of battery electric vehicles are lower than expected, this is offset to a degree by an increasing number of buyers turning to hybrid and plug-in hybrid models which make up 14.1 per cent and 1.9 per cent of the total market respectively.
“While overall consumer preferences remain clear with SUVs and light commercial vehicles continuing to dominate the market and, especially the top 10 sales, many vehicles in these segments are either difficult or expensive to decarbonise. This will prove to be a significant challenge in meeting the extremely ambitious targets of the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES) which began on January 1.
“The industry is responding to NVES by increasing the range of zero and low emission vehicles on offer. However, a continuation of current customer buying preferences will inevitably lead to the accrual of substantial penalties under the government’s new scheme, which will create price inflation within the new vehicle market.”
Mr Weber said lower than expected sales results for battery electric vehicles were being replicated in a number of major markets around the world.
“Manufacturers in the UK, Europe and the USA are under pressure because they have made huge investments to manufacture EVs, but customers are not buying them in the numbers needed to meet emission targets and to provide a return on investment,” he said.
For the calendar year 2024, Toyota was the biggest selling brand with sales of 241,296 and 19.8 per cent market share followed by Ford (100,170/8.2 per cent) and Mazda (95,987/7.9 per cent) in third place.
Mazda’s CX-5 was once again its top seller with 22,835 buyers last year. Picture: Supplied
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Rulings by the Trade Practices Commission require that all advertisements relating to alcoholic beverages, therapeutic goods, weight loss/slimming clinics and products or programmes must carry an APB Clearance Number. All advertisements that do not carry the APB Number first must be submitted for clearance and the issue
Friday January 31st
Cairns Night Markets: 54-60 Abbott St, 16:30-23:30
Kuranda Heritage Markets: Rob Veivers Dr, 10:00-15:30
Kuranda Rainforest Markets: 13 Therwine St, 10:00-15:00
Rusty’s Markets: Grafton St, Cairns, 05:00-16:00
FNQ Markets
Saturday February 1st
Cairns Night Markets: 54-60 Abbott St, 16:30-23:30
Kuranda Heritage Markets: Rob Veivers Dr, 10:00-15:30
Kuranda Rainforest Markets: 13 Therwine St, 10:00-15:00
Rusty’s Markets: Grafton St, Cairns, 05:00-16:00
Sunday February 2nd
Cairns Night Markets: 54-60 Abbott St, 16:30-23:30
Kuranda Heritage Markets: Rob Veivers Dr, 10:00-15:30
Kuranda Rainforest Markets: 13 Therwine St, 10:00-15:00
Mission Beach Markets: Ulysses Park, 07:00-12:00
Port Douglas Markets: Wharf St, 08:00-13:00
Rusty’s Markets: Grafton St, Cairns, 05:00-15:00
Crocs train hard for first match
Club’s men and women’s teams ready to go
l AFL
| Jake Black
WITH the warm weather slowly departing, the Port Douglas Crocs have wasted no time returning to action.
The Crocs have a culture heavily influenced by success and look to find themselves back on top of the mountain in season 2025.
With 2024 coming to heartbreaking finish in the qualifying final, the Crocs went straight to work recruiting.
Reserves coach Matt Laskey said coaches Lee Staple and Nick Salter had done “an exceptional job recruiting some very high-level players”.
“We haven’t seen numbers this great since our 2020 campaign, the amount of depth we have through both teams is the best I’ve seen in years,” he said.
Mr Laskey said, even through the peak of the heatwave, the players had been training hard and the overall vibe throughout the club was “great, everyone is loving being back around the club”.
The first home game of the season is on April 12 against Cairns City.
“It will be an extremely competitive game as everyone wants to start their season strong and set the tone early,” he said.
The women have been very busy as well after their inaugural campaign in season 2025.
Crocs star Caity McPhee has taken on a player and coaching role this year. After an up and down 2024 campaign the women are super keen to get started and chase premiership glory.
“The group is thrilled to be back and super keen to improve from last season,” she said.
With the strength and competitiveness of AFL Cairns growing across the board, all Crocs’ sides know that they must work extremely hard to reach the bar that they originally set so high.
“All clubs have chased recruits and all teams continue to hunt for more depth around their clubs.”
Training sessions are on Monday and Wednesday starting at 5.30pm.
Yachting event draws 15 entries and healthy crowds
l SAILING
| Gary ‘Gazza’ McIlroy
THE return of the Port Douglas to Low Isles Launch Rally after 11 years drew 15 crews and vessels as part of the Australia Day celebrations last Sunday.
The overall winner, being just four seconds off their predicted time, was Indigo 2. Line honours (the quickest overall time of the day) went to Allora.
The best dressed crew and best decorated yacht was awarded to Windswell and Skye 2 won the prize for departing nearest to their allocated time.
Having not been run for the last 11 years, due to insurance issues back in 2014, this year’s event was made available to motor launches, motor yachts and sailing yachts.
The rally can actually trace its origins back to 1962, well before the Port Douglas Yacht Club itself was opened. Back then, a couple of
launch owners had a race around Low Island and subsequently, each year after that, the idea grew and finally became an important part of the laidback lifestyle
and returned.
Sunday’s event was actually the 50th running of the Launch Rally and organisers were pleased to see 15 crews set off from the start line and over
60 members of the Port Douglas Yacht Club turn out to support them at the start and finish.
As part of the day, vessel skippers were encouraged
to decorate their yachts and dress up their crews to add to the atmosphere.
Multiple prizes were up for grabs, including the overall winner, best dressed crew and best decorated yacht.
The occasion was not actually a race but more of a time trial event, where skippers were given the distance to Low Isles (in kilometres) and the expected weather conditions.
They then nominated the speed they will average for the event (in knots), plus their preferred starting time. All yachts starting times were recorded, to the second, and there was even a prize for whoever started closest to their allocated time.
“It’s great to get this day up and running again” said the yacht club rear commodore Peter Cooper.
“Hopefully Sunday’s event will encourage even more entries next year and beyond, returning the Launch Rally to its former glory,” he said.
in Port Douglas. In past years, crowds would line the banks of Dickson Inlet to cheer on the boats as they departed
The Queensland Fire Department provided an apt starting line as WindSwell sails past. Picture: Gary ‘Gazza’ McIlroy
Coach Nick Salter (left), new recruit Tom Cantwell and coach Shannon Gleeson.
Picture: Jake Black
Young fighter training hard for 2025 national championships later this year
Teen boxer aiming for gold
l BOXING
| Jake Black
THE Douglas Shire consistently punches above their weight when it comes to producing elite level athletes.
Young boxing prodigy Nate Martinelli is no exception to that.
Last June he competed in the national championships in Perth where he was runner-up in the 52kg weight class.
His dad, Armen Martinelli, said his son was “a very humble young athlete, but also a fierce competitor”.
“We were both incredibly proud of his achievements, but we’ll continue to train hard and win gold,” he said.
Since the 2024 national championships, the 15-year-old has continued to work extremely hard, using the narrow defeat as constant motivation.
Mr Martinelli senior also applauded his coaching staff, giving a special shout-out to Aaron Wellman at Evolve Boxing and Fitness Machans Beach and the boys from Newell Beach Boxing.
“Nate’s training plans haven’t changed much. We’ve worked more on his technique,” he said.
“We’ll be focusing on turning his current fighting style into more
of an Olympic-style of boxing.”
Mr Martinelli snr said there were some special preparations being done leading into this year’s championships.
“Cardio is king,” he said.
“Rounds on the bag, skipping and focus pads. It’s important he trains longer than he fights so that he’s got the upper hand in competitions.”
While he is not eligible for the novice titles in March, he is setting his sights on the national championships.
Mr Martinelli snr said his training would lift even more to reach the high standards of the nationals.
The junior has a 6:4-win record at high level competitions with all his losses being extremely narrow.
Master Martinelli said he was well prepared for the novice titles.
“I try not to think too far ahead,” he said.
“I prepare for every fight the same way and just stick to my basics.”
He is now training four days a week between his boxing sessions and at Port Douglas Gym, one of his sponsors.
He is looking to improve his record and send out some warning shots leading into this year’s national championships where he aims to win gold.
Raiders ‘in a good place’
l RUGBY UNION
| Dave Lornie
PORT Douglas Reef Raiders
Rugby Union Club is currently recruiting players for this season which starts on March 22.
The Raiders last year celebrated their 25-year anniversary.
“We had a successful year last year,” said head coach Richard Johnston.
“Reaching the semi-finals and going on an eight-game winning streak.”
Mr Johnston said the club has been going hard on its current recruitment drive and there had already been a lot of interest.
“Some players are already here and looking forward to a good pre-season, starting on January 28,” he said.
“Others are on their way and we look forward to their arrival. The ambitions for the club are to go one better and make it to the grand final.
“The club is in a really good place and we are very excited for what the year will bring.
“As for myself I will be looking to grow as a coach and look forward to the challenges we will face together,” Mr Johnston said.
The team is comprised of local players and backpackers and the club is able to help travellers with jobs if they move here for a while.
“As Port Douglas is considered a ‘remote’ town almost any type of work counts towards visa extension including hospitality. The club has some contacts and can help committed players with finding jobs and accommodation,” Mr Johnston said,
“If you’re a front row, second row, scrum half, fly half in particular we’d love to have you join. The rugby is also relaxed and we have a great social scene at the club.” The Raiders train every Tuesday and Thursday at 5.30pm, at Port Douglas Sports Complex. Interested players can email the head coach on johnormj@gmail.com
Reef Raiders Rugby Union Club is preparing for the March start of the season. Picture: Supplied
Nate Martinelli (centre) with Dad Armen Bacalso Martinelli (left) and coach Aaron Wellman. Picture: Supplied
Young boxing prodigy Nate Martinelli, 15, is aiming for gold at the national championships later this year.
Picture: Supplied