Natural wonder nominated for United Nation champions’ award
Great(est) Barrier Reef
l GREAT BARRIER REEF
| Nick Dalton
THE Great Barrier Reef has been nominated for a lifetime achievement award in the United Nations environment program’s highly regarded ‘Champions of the Earth’ environmental awards.
The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority’s Reef Guardian councils have collaborated with the communities of the Great Barrier Reef, including Traditional Owners, marine biologists, the tourism industry and Reef Guardian schools to nominate the World Heritage Area as the first non-human recipient of the award.
Announcing the nomination on World Earth Day (April 22), Reef Guardian Council’s chairman Jeff Baines said the Great Barrier Reef inspired greatness and had a profound impact on both the environment and on the people who visited it.
“The Great Barrier Reef is hands-down the best candidate for a lifetime achievement award,” he said.
“A catalyst for environmental initiatives, the Great Barrier Reef supports First Nations communities, protects marine life and teaches future generations.
“We are using the voices of the communities of the Great Barrier Reef to persuade the United Nations environment program to crown the Great Barrier Reef as the first non-human recipient of the lifetime achievement award in recognition of almost 10,000 years of positive environmental impact.
“Sir David Attenborough is among the environmental titans to previously win this award, which is given to a living individual who has demonstrated decades of impact in protecting the earth and its inhabitants.
“Only living individuals can
win and an individual is defined as a distinct entity, so using UNESCO’s definition of the Great Barrier Reef as a globally outstanding and significant entity, we argue that the Great Barrier Reef meets the entry requirements.”
Tourism Tropical North Queensland chief executive officer Mark Olsen said the tourism industry had thrown its weight behind the nomination “because we see the impact the Great Barrier Reef has on individuals every day – it really is life changing for many people who visit and finally understand how important this World Heritage area is for biodiversity, Indigenous culture and jobs”.
Great Barrier Reef Foundation managing director Anna Marsden said the Reef wasn’t just an environmental icon – “it’s a living entity that has quietly nurtured life for millennia”.
“This is our moment to give back and honour its contribution with the recognition it deserves while also raising awareness of the ongoing work being done to protect its beauty and biodiversity,” she said.
“By nominating the Great Barrier Reef for this award, we are inviting the world to celebrate how it connects people from across the globe, from schoolchildren and scientists to Traditional Owners and international visitors – and the power it holds to drive change.”
Tourism and Events Queensland chief executive officer Craig Davidson said the Reef was “a worthy candidate for this prestigious award’.
“As the world’s largest coral reef system, stretching over 2300km along the Queensland coast and home to a staggering diversity of marine life, it is the Earth’s most extraordinary living entity,” he said.
Subsidised training program on offer to parents
l PORT DOUGLAS
| Gary ‘Gazza’ McIlroy
A SIX-week parent training program is being offered to residents of the Douglas Shire at a much-reduced cost.
‘Circle of Security Parenting’ is an online, 90 minute, once a week course which is being subsidised by the Port Douglas
Community Service Network Child and Parent Support Program.
Parents and carers of children up to 12 years of age are invited to get involved. The program will focus on strengthening parent-child relationships by guiding them through new ways to understand and respond to their children’s behaviour.
“Heavily subsidised, the
Circle of Security Parenting Program supports both parents and carers in understanding and responding to their child’s emotional needs, helping to foster strong and trusting relationships that last a lifetime,” said Port Douglas Neighbourhood Centre child and parent support worker Erin Easton.
The training, facilitated by Manon van der Lee from FNQ
Family Therapy, will assist in supporting a child’s ability to successfully manage emotions, develop self-esteem and ultimately help them feel secure.
The reduced cost is $50, with the first session starting at 9 am on Tuesday, May 13.
For more information or to make a booking, contact Manon van der Lee directly via info@fnqfamilytherapy.com.au
A snorkeller enjoys the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef. Picture: Tourism Tropical North Queensland
Support worker Erin Easton.
Adding splash of colourful style to main street
l MOSSMAN
| Gary ‘Gazza’ McIlroy
MOSAICS are now delighting both locals and visitors to Front Street in Mossman.
In May, the Douglas Shire Council contracted Sam Matthews and Leanne Emmitt to deliver a community art mosaic project for the town.
“The ‘canvas’ for the project was the pedestrian traffic control walls on the corners of Front and William streets,” Ms Emmitt said.
“The project involved two walls, one approximately 15m long and the other roughly 18m m long,” she said.
The chosen theme for the mosaic was the ‘abundance of insects in our tropical environment’, which is a continuation of the theme that inspired the mosaics for the Front Street planter boxes, created by Douglas Arts Base (DAB) mosaicists several years ago to help enliven the town.
These new mosaics also followed on from ‘Life Amongst the Trees’, a celebration of birds mosaic that adorns the toilet block at the Rex Smeal Park in Port Douglas.
“The theme of this recent Mossman project aims to encourage positive interaction and appreciation of the insects that play such a vital role in our environment,” Ms Emmitt said.
Contributors to the project include 69 ceramic decorators collectively decorating about 700 hand-made ceramic pieces, 46 mosaic artists, 24 Haiku poets, five ceramic artists/makers, seven installation helpers and 11 Kuku Yalanji language helpers.
The Douglas Shire Council will now install wooden slats in the spaces between the mosaic sections to match with the mosaic planter boxes on the opposite side of Front Street.
Support for solar farm
Shire councillors back energy project on highway agricultural land
l KILLALOE
| Nick Dalton
A PROPOSED new 7ha solar farm between Port Douglas and Mossman is being supported by Douglas shire councillors after officers initially recommended rejecting the application.
Councillors at last week’s monthly meeting eventually voted to support the farm after Mayor Lisa Scomazzon tabled a new motion.
The venture is earmarked on the corner of the Captain Cook Highway and Killaloe Dump Rd between Port Douglas and Mossman on land next to Vic’s Nursery.
Cr Scomazzon and Cr Mi-
chael Rees spoke in favour of the solar farm.
She said with uncertainty over the cane industry, the Shire had to open up to new industries, even though the proposal fell outside the town plan.
“Everything’s up in the air at the moment,” Cr Scomazzon said.
“We don’t know if we’ve got an industry here at the moment with agriculture, so we need to maybe open up a little bit to allow new industry in the Shire,” she said.
“So I think we need to keep that in mind.”
Cr Rees said at first he had doubts about the project, especially considering its effect on the scenic beauty of the Shire.
“The applicant’s got a lot of hoops to jump through,” he said.
“(But) I like it because it’s light on the earth and, instead of harvesting cane, we’re harvesting the sun,” he said.
Council officers earlier wrote to landowners J and V Noli raising concerns about the solar farm on the main road between the two towns when tourism was critical to the region.
“The development is considered a visual intrusion on the landscape,” the letter said.
“Even with vegetation screening to all boundaries, the vistas of the area will be imposed upon.
“Any development of a large solar panel installation on the
ground needs to be away from scenic vistas and mapped scenic routes.
“The Shire has a very limited, narrow strip of agricultural land, generally sited between the coastal systems and the foothills of the Great Dividing Range.
“With the recent closure of the Mossman Mill concern is held with the agriculture futures for local farmers.”
Cr Scomazzon said the council should back the solar farm proposal, subject to certain conditions, including screening the panels from the highway and continuing to back farming
in the region.
The new motion also wants the site to have the least impact on good quality agricultural land and demonstrate a need for the development.
The applicants told the council that there were plans to plant shrubs and trees to help hide the panels from the highway and some of the adjacent land on the 88ha site was already being used for higher value crops, such as taro and ginger.
Cr Abigail Noli (above), who said she was related to the applicants, declared a conflict of interest and left the meeting during the debate and decision-making.
New operators sought for island
l PALM COVE
| Nick Dalton
EXPERIENCED tourism operators have just two days to respond to expressions of interest to transform run-down Double Island, off the coast of Palm Cove.
The 16.2ha site was recently converted to state-owned freehold land to allow for the island’s revival, which will create hundreds of jobs and add another tourism drawcard to stimulate the Far North Queensland economy.
The previous leaseholder Fortune Island Holding Company was stripped of its $5.68 million lease in May last year. The island’s resort building and other structures have deteriorated.
International commercial real estate firm CBRE has been given exclusive rights to find a new operator and expressions of interest close on May 9.
Natural Resources and Mines Minister Dale Last said the Crisafulli government was “determined to see Double Island become a vibrant tourism asset to support hundreds of jobs across the Far North once more”.
“With the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games around the corner, this is a unique opportunity for a tourism operator who has the vision to transform Double Island into a world class destination once again,” he said.
“We need the right operator with a bold and forward-looking vision to ensure this gem in the Far North’s tourism crown lives up to its full potential.
“Iconic destinations like Double Island should be vibrant tourism hot spots that support quality jobs for locals and the Crisafulli government is delivering just that.”
Member for Barron River and assistant tourism minister Bree James said the expressions of interest would be promoted across Australia.
“Double Island is a local icon and once revitalised it will play an important role in our region’s vital tourism economy,” she said.
“We’re looking for a visionary operator who will transform Double Island for locals and visitors and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for our local island paradise.”
The mosaic team and volunteer assistants (from left) Kay Pike, Samantha Matthews, Pat Lane, Glenda Gordon and Ellen Terrell. Picture: Supplied
HYPNOTIC CONFIDENCE
Do you love yourself?
Self-esteem, the value we place on ourselves, plays a crucial role in our overall well-being and mental health.
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Relationship Diffi culties
Interpersonal relationships can suffer greatly when one has low self-esteem. People with low self-esteem may struggle with trust issues, fear of rejection, and excessive need for validation. This can manifest as clinginess, jealousy, or withdrawal, putting a strain on relationships with partners, family, and friends. Moreover, they may tolerate unhealthy or abusive relationships, believing they do not deserve better, which can further erode their self-worth.
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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: www.confidencecontrol.com.au
New focus on Cenotaph
l MOSSMAN
A MAJOR upgrade of the Mossman Cenotaph was completed just in time for the ANZAC Day service on April 25.
The RSL has described the $150,000 upgrade as a “tremendous” improvement ahead of the ANZAC Day service.
The revered Front Street site now has a larger paved area, a stone wall circling the monument, new lighting and landscaping. Mossman RSL SubBranch president John
Grime said he was pleased with the upgrade.
“It looks tremendous, not just the paving, but the landscaping to the left and right of it really blends in and draws people’s focus to it (the Cenotaph),” he said.
“I know there is some floor-mounted lights that shine up at both the flagpole and the memorial itself.
“To me it’s a reflection of what’s gone on over at least the last 20 years where the council and RSL have worked together on projects. We are very grateful to the council to
committing to this.”
Douglas Shire Mayor Lisa Scomazzon said the upgrade was important given the community support for ANZAC Day.
“We have a large crowd attend the dawn service in Mossman each year. The new layout is more inclusive and a more fitting environment to honour those who have served our country,” she said.
“(The) council was pleased to work with the Mossman RSL Sub-Branch in upgrading the site, with a hope it will be enjoyed for years to come.”
Ferry project Shire council awards landside contract
FROM PAGE 1
“We need to improve the road infrastructure both north and south of the river to accommodate the eventual larger four-lane ferry,” Cr Scomazzon said.
published at some point so the community can see what we are talking about and it is not just abstract.’’
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“An $8.8 million contract has been awarded to Durack Civil to develop the new infrastructure which will contain dual waiting and exits lanes, reducing waiting times for locals and tourists.
“Work will hopefully be started after the wet season, next year.”
During the meeting Cr Scomazzon said: “It’s finally starting, we’re moving forward, it’s been awhile.”
She said it would be “nice and shiny”.
“I’m looking forward to it,”
Cr Scomazzon said
Cr Michael Rees, who moved the motion to award the contract, said it was “exciting” and described the project as a “ginormous body of work”.
He said it was being done simultaneously with the ferry contract.
“We can’t afford to wait,’’ Cr Rees said.
“We are hoping that the new ferry will transport 30 per cent more traffic. It sounds like there will be work done on both sides simultaneously and I am very happy to hear that some of the concept drawings will be
Cr Abigail Noli said it was hoped the ferry contract would come before councillors “in the very near future”.
She said the landside works were “a big sum of money” which was being spread over four years.
She said there would be a “smick new entrance to the World Heritage-listed Daintree rainforest”.
A council report said the ferry provided a critical transport link for about 950 residents and hundreds of thousands of annual visitors a year on whom the businesses north of the river depend.
“The tourism season sees a large influx of tourist vehicles to the area. During peak periods, the population swells significantly due to tourism,” the report said.
“Over 100 small businesses operate in the region, including 43 active tourism operators, most of which rely on uninterrupted access for guests, deliveries and staff.
“In peak times, traffic can extend towards the Mossman Daintree Rd (highway) some 2km with wait times up to two hours.
“The Daintree River ferry upgrade and associated land-
side civil works will provide quicker access for locals and tourists across the Daintree River and reduce queueing congestion and potential blockages during peak tourism season.”
The report said the new ferry would have the capacity to transport 30 per cent more vehicles every crossing and also cross more frequently due to the design of dual loading and unloading ferry ramps and onshore concrete ramps.
“This design initiative requires the landside infrastructure be designed to enable the dual loading and unloading of vehicles through wider landside concrete entry ramps,” the report said.
The contract involves $8.8m for the works plus $880,000 for provisions. The budget would be allocated over 2024-25, 2025-26, 2026-27 and 2027-28 financial years with $385,000 for the design this financial year and sums of $2m, $3.77m and $3.5m for subsequent works in the following years.
The report said council officers worked with the contractor “to remove design and methodology uncertainty, hence removing almost $900,000 from the lump sum price, with provisional costs only to be realised as required”.
The new ferry is expected to arrive in November, 2027.
Mossman RSL president John Grime and Mayor Lisa Scomazzon at the Cenotaph. Picture: Dougas Shire Council
Letters to the Editor
WANT TO BE HEARD? send your text to 0473 424 877 or email letters@douglasgazette.com.au Housing dilemma
be a
David Kempton, Member for Cook Climate grants
THIS WEEK’S QUESTION What do you think about the revival of the Mossman Show Ball and will you be going?
@douglasgazette
Katherine Hunter, Mossman Amazing rescue
Sarah Matthee, climate solutions portfolio lead at FRRR
Local skills park coaching sessions and jump and pump track competition,sponsored by the event with merchant stalls, music and free sausage sizzle.
- Don Wright, Facebook
None. All these events already cause enough disturbance to a lot of local small businesses who lose a day’s work every time there is an event closing the roads. Some larger businesses may profit but the little guys lose out.
- Doug Herrington, Facebook
Put it on at the Outback roads.
- Jay N Port, Facebook
I think there should be an event around the streets of
In the last edition we asked: What other events should be added to the Port Douglas Gran Fondo to make it more comprehensive? Here are some of your comments. Locally Snapped
Port Douglas for wheelies to make it more accessible for the disabled.
- John Nicholas, Facebook
What about some sort of water event such as parasailing, jet ski races or kayaking?
- Sheila Smith, Facebook
What happned to the criterium or ‘crit’ around the Port Douglas CBD and waterfront which used to be part of the Port Douglas Gran Fondo?
- Tom Reed, Facebook
Just have it somewhere else.
- Gary Lee, Facebook
Up Kuranda to Mareeba.
- Jeff Read, Facebook
Cow Bay | 5:00 AM Mossman | 5:15 AM Port Douglas | 10 AM Daintree River Ferry begins operations from 4:00 AM
Two ospreys, which have their nest on a power pole just south of the Mowbray River, survey the landscape below them. Picture: Joanne Lis
His 40 years behind the mic
l DOUGLAS SHIRE
IN over four years of producing the weekly Gazza’s Goss column, I’ve managed to avoid writing about myself.
That is quite an achievement for a radio jock, as we are generally renowned for having loud voices and large egos.
One radio station manager in New Zealand actually described my ego as “large enough to stroke”.
On this occasion, however, I am going to allow myself a little leeway, as Monday, May 5, was the 40th anniversary of my very first radio show back in 1985. This by no means compares with the longevity of, say John Laws, but it is a decent effort.
It is also quite a relevant story after being on air for the last six years in the Douglas Shire and, prior to this, having enjoyed a few years broadcasting to the Cassowary Coast on both 4KZ and Kool FM. These are both areas covered by Cairns Local News.
Like many budding radio presenters in the UK, before the days of Walkmans and iPods, the journey began for me on hospital radio.
With few other options of entertainment, while lying in bed getting well, listening to the hospital radio station through some small plastic headphones was extremely popular.
My station, Radio St Helier in South London, actually broadcast to three hospitals which meant a possible listenership of around 3000
people. Around this time in the 1980s, the UK saw its second wave of pirate radio stations, but this time on FM as opposed to the AM pirate ships of the 1960s. This was a great chance to break out and get heard right across London.
After many adventures working in dubious tower blocks in Central London and stations occasionally getting raided, the authorities saw the people’s desire to have alternative radio options, different to the likes of the BBC.
As a result, a small number of new legal stations hit the airwaves, so my radio career headed in a more legitimate direction on stations like WNK 103.3FM in North London.
Fast forwarding to the mid 2000s, I took on a breakfast show in Christchurch, NZ, surviving earthquakes to entertain folk across Canterbury.
Keen to enjoy a warmer climate, however, the next destination was Mount Isa with Hot FM. Hot it certainly was.
Life in the Outback was a sudden shock to the system, but the mining town became the birth place of the ‘Gazza Challenge’ which was ultimately even more popular than I ever imagined, especially after then moving east, heading to Innisfail with 4KZ and Kool FM.
This is where the story becomes more relevant to readers of Cairns Local News and eventually the Douglas Gazette.
With the ‘KZ Connection’ on air during the afternoons on 4KZ and the Gazza Challenge
broadcast during the breakfast shows on both 4KZ and Kool FM, it wasn’t long before locals along the Cassowary Coast acclimatised to the cockney accent on their wireless.
Features like the Googly and the Gadget attracted many callers every weekday afternoon, but it was the Gazza Challenge that really caught people’s imagination.
Each morning, listeners on the street would be encouraged to dress up and take on some tasks, with a prize to be won if completed successfully. Every Friday, the ‘Reverse Challenge’ involved me donning some weird outfit.
After four years of broadcasting along the Great Green Way, the opportunity came to move a little further north to Fab FM, transmitting across the Douglas Shire. With a show initially on in the afternoons, this allowed the Douglas locals to have a taste of the Gazza Challenge as well as the Googlies and Gadgets. This station eventually became Douglas FM, which, after 40 years, takes me up to where the story currently sits, with Breakfast Gazzamataz, on weekdays from 6 am to 9am.
I’m off to get ready for another 40 years, so for now it’s Gazza signing out.
Send your stories to gazza@cairnslocalnews.com.au
With Katter candidates Duan Amos and Robbie Katter.
Gazza with Angela Whittaker and Andrea Cameron of the Clink Theatre and muso Glenn Shorrock.
Gary ‘Gazza’ McIlroy currently on Douglas FM. Pictures: Supplied
Gazza with Billy Slayter.
Gazza dons a wacky costume.
Entertainment Guide
Fun events for all the family
l CAIRNS CBD
IT’S a day of creativity, music, laughter, and a touch of magic as the Cairns Children’s Festival takes over Cairns Performing Arts Centre (CPAC) and the Court House Gallery on Saturday, May 17.
At CPAC, the day kicks off with A Bee Story — a buzzing circus adventure full of acrobatics, live music, and a heartwarming tale about friendship, teamwork, and the importance of bees.
This family-friendly show will have little ones wideeyed with wonder and adults charmed by its uplifting message and stunning performances.
The fun continues with Ratburger, the stage adaptation of David Walliams’ bestselling and hilariously cheeky book.
Packed with clever characters, laugh-out-loud moments, and a few surprises along the way, Ratburger promises to be a wild and wonderful ride for kids and parents alike.
Across at the Court House Gallery, the precinct will be alive with a full day of free entertainment.
Bring a picnic and settle in on the lawn for Picnic on the Lawn, starring Box Jelly
Theatre Company with playful pop-up performances, roving entertainers, and an energetic silent disco that will have everyone dancing.
Inside the gallery, discover colourful art exhibitions created by young local artists, offering a glimpse into the imaginative world of kids – through the eyes of kids themselves.
Plus, live music on the lawn will feature Cairns’ own Grace Jones, treating audiences to a sparkling set of Disney favourites guaranteed to get the whole family singing along.
Later in the day, the festival’s energy lifts again with the Pierce Brothers hitting the stage.
Fresh from a performance at Bluesfest in Byron Bay, these high-energy folk-pop favourites are set to deliver a concert that’s as exciting for parents as it is for kids.
And when the stars come out, it’s time to don your robes and wave your wands for The Hogwarts Experience.
Enjoy live Hogwartsthemed entertainment followed by an open-air screening of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone - a magical end to an unforgettable day. Visit https://bit.ly/4jDztoP
Ratburger will delight and surprise the youngster on Saturday, May 17. Picture: Supplied
Quentin Blake
SATURDAY 17 MAY
Become a Lego master
SUNDAY 18 MAY AT
Vibrant
festival to inspire creativity
l EDGE HILL
It’ll be a jam-packed Sunday of creativity and family fun at this year’s Cairns Children’s Festival (May 17 and 18), with the Tanks Arts Centre coming alive with activities, entertainment, and plenty of hands-on adventures.
One of the biggest highlights of the full day of free entertainment for our littlest creatives is Brickmania – a celebration of imagination, engineering, and all things Lego.
Budding builders and curious creators will get the chance to meet special guest Damian Hinds, a familiar face from Lego Masters Australia.
As one-half of last year’s incredible runner-up team, Damian’s passion for Lego stretches well beyond the television screen.
Since his time on the show, Damian has launched a business dedicated to spreading the joy of Lego through workshops, community events, and school programs across Australia.
At Brickmania, Damian will be on hand to share insider stories from his time on Lego Masters, offer building tips and tricks, and inspire the next generation of master builders.
Whether you’re a seasoned Lego fan or just getting started, there’s plenty of opportunity to get creative, build something amazing, and maybe even learn a few competition secrets along the way.
But the fun doesn’t stop there.
Sunday at the Cairns Children’s Festival is packed with exciting activities – from live performances and interactive arts workshops to storytelling sessions and roving entertainers.
The lush surrounds of the Tanks provide the perfect backdrop for families to explore, discover, and create unforgettable memories together.
Whether you’re crafting your own colourful masterpiece, joining in a musical adventure, or simply soaking up the festival atmosphere, there’s something magical waiting for kids of all ages.
Best of all, the majority of activities are free – making it the perfect family day out.
Mark your calendars, gather the family and get ready to let imaginations run wild at Tanks Arts Centre on Sunday May 18.
The Cairns Children’s Festival promises a day bursting with colour, creativity, and community.
For the full program and ticket information, visit: https://bit.ly/4jDztoP
Create something colourful with Lego at the Cairns Children’s Festival. Picture: Supplied
Lego Master Damian will help everyone create a masterpiece at the Cairns Children’s Festival. Picture: Supplied
Mind your manners at shows
Tips on etiquette during theatre performances shared by Port thespian stalwart
l PORT DOUGLAS
| Gary ‘Gazza’ McIlroy
MIND your manners may sound more like the next stage performance at Port Douglas’s Clink Theatre, but it is actually a request from Douglas Theatre Arts Group president Michael Kerr, who describes his request as a ‘guide to theatre etiquette for patrons’.
“The theatre is a place of magic, where stories come to life and audiences are transported to worlds of drama, joy and wonder,” he said.
“However, creating this enchantment is a delicate collaboration between performers and spectators.
“Just as actors rehearse and refine their craft, audiences, too, have a role to play.”
Following the recent success of Mamma Mia! at the Clink Theatre, Mr Kerr believed that, while the energy of full houses and enthusiastic audiences was exhilarating, it was evident there were some common breaches of theatre etiquette that warranted discussion.
“These behaviours can disrupt both the performers and fellow attendees, detracting from the shared experience of live performance,” he said.
To ensure that every theatregoer has the best possible experi-
ence, Mr Kerr has offered some simple guidelines to keep in mind, including arriving on time.
“Theatre doors typically open well before the curtain rises. Arriving early allows patrons to find their seats, settle in and browse the program without rushing or disturbing others,” he said.
“Late arrivals, not only disrupt the performance, but can also break the spell of the story unfolding on stage.”
Mr Kerr also asked future audience members to keep conversations to a minimum and let the dialogue on stage be the focus, saving thoughts for the intermission or the car ride home.
Because performances such as Mamma Mia! are licensed products, recording video or audio during the show is actually illegal.
Other requests from Mr Kerr are for patrons to silence mobile phones, remain seated during performances, unless it is an emergency, and not to arrive at the theatre heavily intoxicated.
“The Clink Theatre is immensely proud of its vibrant community and the role it plays in bringing productions to life,” he said.
“By working together, we can ensure that our shared love of the arts is accompanied by a commitment to courtesy and respect.
“As the curtain rises on future performances, let’s all do our part to keep the magic alive.”
Alina Polishuk and Nathan Vorerk during the recent Mamma Mia! production which was marred by spectator disturbances. Picture: Supplied
Chelsea Skerri
Raine & Horne Port Douglas
Motoring Guide
Skyrail adds electric coach
FNQ tourism operator partners with bus company to reduce carbon emissions
l EV LAUNCH
SKYRAIL is taking its green credentials up a notch by adding a 57-seater electric bus in partnership with The CaPTA Group and Tropic Wings to take guests to and from the iconic attraction’s front door.
Skyrail Rainforest Cableway general manager Richard Berman-Hardman said with larger seating capacity and streamlined pick up locations from Cairns city, there were several benefits to the switch underpinned by a significant reduction in carbon emissions annually.
“Travelling approximately 140km per day, by replacing a traditional diesel-powered vehicle with a state-of-the-art Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV), it will save around 142kg of CO2 emissions daily, which is equivalent to 6.5 trees.
“Beyond the environmental benefits, the electric bus promises to enrich the guest experience. Passengers will enjoy a quieter, smoother ride, free from the noise and vibrations of conventional engines and will arrive knowing they are travelling responsibly.
“We’re excited to offer our guests a truly sustainable rainforest experience.
“By adding an electric bus to
our expanding EV fleet, we’re not just reducing our environmental impact, we’re raising the standard for responsible tourism in the Wet Tropics World Heritage area and Tropical North Queensland region – the ecotourism capital of Australia.”
Tropic Wings general manager Colin Anderson said he believed The CaPTA Group was leading the way by using electric coaches.
“It is partnerships like this, between two of Cairns’ biggest ecotourism operators, that make this region so special,” he said.
“Together, we’re proving that sustainability and exceptional guest experiences go hand in hand.”
Member for Barron River Bree James said the LNP Queensland government was committed to ensuring “our state remains a leader in ecotourism, hence we combined the tourism and environment portfolios under one ministry”.
“As a Cairns local, I am incredibly honoured to present Skyrail Rainforest Cableway’s new electric bus, delivered by their logistics partner Tropic Wings,” she said.
“It shows what can be done when big players in the tourism sector work together and our government is keen to highlight these sorts of initiatives.”
Skyrail’s Richard Berman-Hardman (left), Barron River MP Bree James and Colin Anderson of Tropic Wings with the new coach. Picture: Supplied
Driving for more women golfers
l GOLF
| Gary ‘Gazza’ McIlroy
MOSSMAN Golf Club
has received a grant from Queensland ‘Active Women and Girls Funding’ to help provide four golf clinics during May and June.
While men and younger male players, beginners through to experienced, are encouraged to get involved, one key objective is also to promote the game of golf to ladies and young female potential players.
“The number of women players has dropped in recent years, so we are hoping to reverse that trend,” said Mossman Golf Club president John Carney.
The golf clinics will cost $10 per session, with PGA professional golfers Graham Bolton and Rob Dean providing instruction on chipping, putting and driving with woods on the fairway.
Each session will commence at 4.30pm on Monday, May 12, Sunday, May 18, Sunday, May 25 and Monday, June 2.
“We’ve tried to pick dates to suit everyone and people are welcome to come along to just one or all of the sessions, if they wish,” said golf club women’s captain Sherrie Abel.
Registration is available by emailing Mossman Golf Club via info@mossmangolfclub. com.au or by calling the club on 4098 2089.
Mixed fortunes for Sharks
Mossman league teams score two wins, two losses in southern away games
l RUGBY LEAGUE
| Jake Black
THE Mossman Sharks continued their hot start during the ANZAC round with a mixture of results across their four teams.
The Sharks made the trip down to Smithfield to try continue their current form and continue their hunt for a finals berth in games against Ivanhoe Knights.
The day started off with the women’s side searching to get their first win of the year.
The Sharkettes started the game hot, scoring the first try of the game, but unfortunately the experience of the Edmonton Storm showed as they struck back guard, running away with a 46-4 win.
The U19s were up next, who were in red hot form entering this round with only one loss.
The U19s came out the gates quickly, running away with a very convincing 32-12 victory over the Ivanhoe Knights.
The U19s now sit equal second on the table.
The reserve grade side was up next who have had a bumpy start to their
year but were looking to find their form with a much-needed win over Ivanhoes.
Ivanhoe’s hit the paddock firing, scoring twice in the first 10 minutes, putting the Sharks’ backs against the wall.
The reserves showed great resilience fighting back and securing the much needed 24-18 win.
This win currently puts the Sharks in eighth spot but only one win away from third place.
The day finished up with the A grade squad coming off a tough match-up the week before against Mareeba that ended in a draw.
Ivanhoes stormed onto the field, putting the Sharks on the back foot very early in the game.
The game became an arm wrestle before Ivanhoe’s ran away with a 42-20 victory.
A Sharks spokesman said they were “disappointed with this loss but all it does is add fuel to the fire and will make us train harder moving forward”.
The Sharks now look to their next match-up against competition powerhouse Cairns Kangaroos on Mother’s Day (Sunday), when all teams look to find the win and find their way back into the top four.
Mossman Golf Club women’s captain Sherrie Abel teeing up for the golf clinics later this month. Picture: Gary ‘Gazza’ McIlroy
Mossman Sharks in action against Ivanhoe Knights at Smithfield over the ANZAC long weekend. Picture: Supplied
Launch pad for fresh talent
How Crankworx is nurturing the next FNQ world mountain bike champions
l MOUNTAIN BIKING
THE next generation of world champion mountain bikers could emerge from Tropical North Queensland as part of the legacy of Crankworx Cairns, according to the Cairns Mountain Bike Club.
Club president Rachael White said local interest in mountain biking had surged with the club’s numbers growing by about one-third since Crankworx landed in Cairns in 2022.
“The growth of the Cairns Mountain Bike Club means that we can contribute more volunteer hours at Crankworx and over the past three years our club has reinvested almost $54,000 earned through volunteering and course building back into improving the Smithfield trails network for the community,” she said.
“More families are getting involved and this increases the competitiveness, so we are seeing a greater number of kids competing at a higher level. This year we have a cohort of at least 10 juniors travelling to national and inter-
Reef Raiders fall short against NB Mud Crabs
l RUGBY UNION
| Jake Black
AFTER two weeks of close wins in grit and grind matches, the Reef Raiders just fell short of their third straight against the Northern Beaches Mud Crabs in the ANZAC round.
The Reef Raiders recently found themselves riding a momentum wave after winning two straight games in tremendous fashion.
The Raiders looked to carry this momentum into their game against the league leading Mud Crabs who are in red hot form.
Coach Richard Johnston said he knew they had their work cut out “but we’re up for the challenge”.
The Mud Crabs stormed out the gates, gaining a very early 17-0 lead testing the Raiders’ resilience.
The Raiders weren’t going to quit that easily though, clawing back to tie things up at 17-17, but unfortunately the Mud Crabs proved too good getting the 24-17 victory.
In the reserve grade, the Tablelands district side has started their inaugural season off in tremendous fashion winning three out of their first four games and sitting in third on the table, with their only loss being to first place Barron Trinity Bulls.
The Tablelands had a comfortable win in the ANZAC round, winning 24-7 over the Cairns Penrhyn Sharks 24-7.
With their recent form, the Tablelands side is looking towards a finals berth in their first season, and they look to compete for a premiership in their inaugural season.
Both teams now look towards their next home game against the competition juggernauts JCU Mariners.
This is a huge match-up for both teams, with the Tablelands side trying to continue to show their muscle, and the A grade side trying to get a win over the four-time defending premiers.
All action kicks off at 3.15pm on Saturday (May 10), where both sides look to secure wins in front of their home crowd.
national level competitions for downhill including Crankworx and Thredbo Cannonball Festival.
“The sport is also gaining more female participants with mentors like our Cairns-born world champion Tracey Hannah inspiring the next generation of world champions here in our backyard.”
Crankworx Cairns 2024 U15 downhill champion Kara Elepfandt lives minutes away from the Smithfield Mountain Bike Park and at just 14 is already heavily involved in all aspects of mountain biking including working at a local bike shop and giving back to the younger girls as an assistant coach.
She started riding with her father Peter for fun when he bought her first mountain bike for her eighth birthday.
“I did my first enduro race at 10 and I just loved racing. I have three girls in my age group and two of us went to the state competition last year. I hope to compete at a national level this year,” she said.
“I have been a spectator at every
Crankworx Cairns and did Kidsworx until I was old enough to compete in Crankworx last year. It is really cool for all the local kids to see world-class riders, especially the female riders. Tracey Hannah grew up in Cairns and she rode these trails and maybe I can be like her.”
Ms Hannah has helped Kara with skills training and says she respects the 14-year-old’s commitment to wanting to improve her riding.
“It takes a lot of hard work, dedication and the right people around you to become a professional, especially in mountain biking, so to have up and coming girls like Kara is special,” she said
“Being a mentor means a lot to me because I was lucky to have opportunities while I was growing up in the mountain biking community and I want to pass it forward. I would be honoured if I’m able to help Kara achieve her dreams.”
Cairns Mayor Amy Eden said Crankworx wasn’t just a world-class event – it was a launchpad for local talent.
Reef Raiders were disappointed with their 24-17 loss against Northern Beaches Mud Crabs. Picture: Supplied
At the Crankworx ground from left world mountain bike champion Tracey Hannah, Tourism Tropical North Queensland CEO Mark Olsen, Cairns Mayor Amy Eden and Crankworx Cairns 2024 U15 downhill champion Kara Elepfandt. Picture: Supplied