Monday 01 June

Seafood Extravaganza lives up to it's name once more !

Record crowds filled the sun soaked boardwalk of the Meridien Marina on the last day of Carnivale 2009. General Manager, Jason Roles and his Meridien Marina team succesfully organised more food stalls, more people, bigger variety of menus and a welcome return to the Seafood Extravaganzas that only a few long time residents can remember.

The boardwalk was rockin' and rollin' to both the chatter and laughter of the massive crowds as well as local entertainers, Eagle and Jov "Santana" Rossa partying from the Calypso Tours Boat tied up at the quayside.

The Seafood Extravaganza is such a brilliant family day to bring the festivities of Carnivale to a close. In recent years it had faltered but with the re-introduction of both the local commercial fishermen and the Marina restaurants working together, the whole event has come alive.

Many of the kids received Carnivale showbags organised by the Port Douglas Chamber of Commerce and all the mums, dads, grand parents and family undoubtedly had their fill from the widest range of seafood ever put together within this event.

A fitting climax to this years Port Douglas Carnivale 2009. And just a gentle reminder to all those who may be nursing sore heads from over indulging.... next year we can do it all again ! See you all at Port Douglas Carnivale 2010.

Chandon Lunch Images

Monday 01 June

Champagne all round at Zinc Chandon Lunch

A superb set luncheon was laid on for a fully booked Zinc Restaurant from midday on the last Friday of Carnivale 2009.

The weather once again smiled on the gathering of approximately one hundred and twenty guests made up of a wonderful blend of locals, visitors from Cairns and a whole raft of lucky tourists here on the right day and the right time.

All sections of the restaurant were comfortably filled and each and every guest enjoyed four fabulous courses with many special culinary requirements satisfied for those who needed special attention. Each course was accompanied by a wonderful selection of fine wines specially selected by owner Angelo Marras and his wine merchants, Chandon who were sponsoring the event.

The well thought out seating plan made interaction between the tables and guests very easy and it wasn't long before everyone was mixing and making new friends. The wines were of exceptional quality, the Head Chef and his staff delivered a consistently high standard of dishes and the wait staff worked tirelessly to make sure everyones needs were catered for.

Angelo, Marco and their team should be congratulated on creating another new mainstay for Carnivale week.

For bookings at Zinc Restaurant and Lounge Bar call 07 4099 4419

Food & Wine Images

Monday 01 June

Biggest attendance ever at Food and Wine and a Taste of Port 2009

Organisers took a calculated gamble and didn't erect the marquees to cover this years Quicksilver Food and Wine and a Taste of Port event at Rex Smeal Park on the Final Saturday of Carnivale 2009. It gave this traditional event an atmosphere of freedom that the record crowd seemed to thrive within.

Mind you the weather didn't look promising at around 5pm but the light winds did their job and the stars came out to play on this beautiful setting along the Dickson Inlet.

Many of the tables were decorated with care and creativity, many of the crowd came in fancy dress and much of the rest were dressed to impress. The plentiful wines and beers flowed and the amazingly varied menus were enjoyed with great gusto by all the party animals.

Meeting old friends and making new ones is always the order of the night and with a record turnout it felt like the party could never end. The early bands including local legend "Sonny Boy' Forbes set the scene for those who wanted to dance the night away and when Hip To Soul ramped up the tempo and took the crowds to fever pitch the park was rockin' and rollin'' like never before !

I don't know whether it was my imagination or not but the crowds this year seemed more determined than ever to have a great time at this now traditional climax to the Carnivale week. perhaps it stemmed from the fact that we nearly didn't have our Carnivale !

Well if that is the case, then well done Events NQ for organising this fantastic event and well done the Port Douglas Chamber of Commerce in pulling all the pieces together in such a short space of time to make sure Carnivale 2009 went ahead.

Now we look forward to partying at Port Douglas Carnivale 2010.

Monday 01 June

Local Songwriter's Challenge for top honours at Court House Grand Final

Eleven of the top talents from Julatten, Mossman and Port Douglas gathered together to showcase their original compositions in front of four judges and a massive audience at the Court House Hotel in Port Douglas for the Grand Final of the Songwriter's Challenge 2009 on the last Friday of Carnivale Week.

Organiser Drew Weyand from Livewire Music held an independent draw to ensure that the order of play was completely random and had no bearing on the performers performances in the earlier heats held in their local areas. The judges were given strict instructions on the structure of marking.

Marking was purely to be on lyrics, melody, structure and arrangement and originality and creativity. It was not to be the performance that mattered it was to be the song. Each finalist played a warm up song and then straight into their winning entry.

The nervous energy and excitement was just like that of a big city theatre opening night. The enthusiastic audience cheered and clapped each performance and the songs were of such a high standard that the judges all agreed it was one of the most difficult things that they had ever been asked to do.

However the winning song as voted by the judges seemed to get unilateral agreement from the crowds. Danny Ross and his excellent composition entitled "Ever present" took top honours with the People's Choice, voted by the audience on the night going to Josh Adams for his poignant composition entitled 'Some of us".

It had been a long journey through the three heats with forty five entrants this year, so congratulations must go to not only the winners but to all the other entrants. The judges were encouraging in their comments about each and every one of them.

There wasn't a bad song among them, which just confirms what everyone who lives here already knows, "The Douglas Region's got talent".

Can't wait for next year's competition, well done the sponsors and well done Drew Weyand for organising the whole contest and Larry Cash for making everyone sound great.

Gourmet Gladiators Images

Friday 29 May

Gourmet Gladiators battle at the Grand Final

 

A packed Central Hotel ‘Coliseum’ in Port Douglas witnessed a monumental battle of culinary skills between three top Chefs from three of Ports finest Establishments. 

The starting line-up read like a who’s who of Port Douglas with Michelin Star trained Head Chef from Peppers Beach Club, Jeremy Sneddon , Swiss French cuisine dynamo Clement Wurthrich from Clement’s Restaurant and young superstar, Matthew ‘Is there anywhere in the world this man has not cooked’ Maslak from the Sheraton. 

Immediately the starting signal was given the knives started cutting, thrusting and chopping and the flames burst from the hot plates as the crowd roared on their favourites to bigger and greater efforts.  It soon became obvious that as the Chefs poured over there imaginative creations their celebrity guests Port Douglas Radio’s ‘Super’ Sal Streeter, Chamber President Ken Dobbs and Gary ‘Lord Waterfront’  Hunt were dead set on surpassing their own records in wine consumption. 

Prior to commencing the competition, Steve Grainger from major event sponsors, Pantacchini's Seafood Suppliers delivered his surprise ingredients which included a real ‘curve ball’ asking the Culinary Gladiators to include Emu on the menu !  With three other seafood surprise ingredients with which to create their selection of masterpieces, hosts Micka and the Gusman, (or Gourmet as his friends now call him), took the unprecedented step of increasing the allotted cooking time from just 30 minutes to 45 minutes. 

It is believed that the boys took this step to ensure that there would be enough food delivered to satisfy their own almost insatiable appetites, when it came time for tasting and judging. The four judges took over 30 minutes to reach their final decision, which according to their spokesman, Australian and Queensland Cricket legend, Michael Kasprowitz, was the closest and hardest decision they have had to make during this years competition. 

However after much debate they finally reached agreement and Jeremy Sneddon from Peppers Beach Club with his trusty celebrity guest assistant Ken Dobbs were declared worthy 2009 winners. The stage was reminiscent of the aftermath of a world title boxing with contestants, celebrities and sponsors all milling around the stage congratulating the winners. 

And sponsors Yalumba Wines and James Squire beers delighted to see so much of their products being consumed.

Organisers Byron and Vicki Kurth thanked all the sponsors and in time honoured Olympic fashion invited everyone to congregate once again in one years time to witness the Gourmet Gladiators 2010.  

All Hail to the Gladiators !

Friday 29 May

Port Douglas IGA Locks up the Boss !

This morning from 9am Cornett’s IGA Manager Paul Scott was handcuffed to his desk at the front of the store by his staff and will not be released until at least $500 has been raised for the “Little Miracles” Appeal for the Mater Hospital in Brisbane.  

The staff dressed in Surgeons Gowns succeeded in incarcerating Mr Scott as bewildered shoppers looked on, but as it very quickly became apparent their actions were all in a charitable cause, the shoppers soon joined in the fun.

It is expected he will be handcuffed until at least 4pm, so there’s plenty of time to get in on the action and run out to make a donation.  Just one question was left unanswered, when the staff were quizzed about toilet breaks, no one seemed to want to answer the question !

For further details please call 07 4099 5533

Australian Muster Images

Friday 29 May

Australian Muster Experience Opens its gates
 
One of Australia's finest new tourist attractions opend it's gates last night to an invited audience of tourism industry VIPs.  And what a show the Muster crew put on.  Amazing horsemanship, traditional mustering skills for both horse and cattle and just a little comedy to keep the audience smiling. 

This purpose built venue is situated in the rainforest hills about 20 minutes from Port Douglas and Mossman with regular buses available to bring the tourists in for each performance. Every thing at the venue is themed, with excellent uninterupted viewing areas, seating, bar and well presented restrooms. 

Many of the crew meet and greet you on arrival to get you merging into the whole experience.  If you are so inspired by the show you can even try your hand on the mechanical bull ride.

The muster station was officially opened by Owner Gordon Pringle with a helping hand from State Minister Steve Wettenhall.  Among the guests in attendance included newly re-elected State MP Jason O'Brien, Cairns Regional Councillor for Division 10, Julia Leu, Tourism Tropical North Queensland Chief Executive Rob Giason and TPDD Executive Officer Doug Ryan. All agreed this was a wonderful addition to Far North Queensland's tourism attraction and would undoubtedly make even even harder for travellers to resist the attraction of the Far North.

For full details and booking Tel: (07) 4098 1149  or visit www.australianmusterexperience.com

Thursday 28 May

SuperSal and Clement take the Laurels at Gourmet Gladiators Heat 3
 

According to Aussie Cricket Legend, Michael Kasprowitz, spokesman for the judges at last nights third and final heat for Gourmet Gladiators “The contest was the closest yet !”  Head Chef Clement Wurtrich from Clement’s Restaurant assisted by local Radio Celebrity SuperSal just pipped to the winning post, the formidable duo of Luxury Super Yacht Galaxy 1, Head Chef, Dean Lewis and Douglas Region, CRC Councillor Julia Leu. 

The winning margin was just half a point.  Micka and the Gusman co-hosted the frantic evening in their own madcap way helping the crowd to appreciate all the culinary skills of the contestants. 

As the competition heated up, so did the contestants over their hotplates.  At the end of the evening the eager audience was left with their mouths watering but sadly their was no sampling of the dishes that the two chefs and their assistants had prepared.  

When quizzed about the fate of the food, Micka could not comment ‘cos his mouth was full and “Perks of the Job” was all The Gusman could manage between mouthfuls.  The Grand Final starts at 6.30pm tonight at the Central “Gladiators Arena” .

Thursday 28 May

Cruise Ship awaits results before confirming arrival in Port

Following discussions with the Queensland Government, P&O cruises has changed the itinerary of the Pacific Dawn cruise ship currently sailing in Queensland waters.

Queensland Health has reported that the P&O is now on route to Willis Island, 440km off the Queensland Coast, allowing authorities more time to determine the health status of those on board the ship.

The Pacific Dawn departed for Willis Island after leaving Gladstone yesterday.

"Because nobody disembarks on the island, this extra time at sea allows us to test those who have developed symptoms and to monitor for the development of any further cases" said Queensland Health

"Three people on the ship have tested positive to influenza. Swabs have been taken to determine if they test positive for H1N1 (swine) influenza. Results are expected to be released today after noon"

Once the results are in, Queensland Health will be in discussion with P&O to determine the best course of action.

The care of the passengers and crew and that of the broader Queensland community is a key priority at this time and all these factors will be considered when making decisions with regard to the cruise" says Queensland Heath.

Thursday 28 May

The 2009 Port Douglas Golf Challenge

Port Douglas Golf Challenge Day One - wrap up

A very successful first day of the Port Douglas Golf Challenge was played on Monday 25th under perfect skies and serious golf was enjoyed by all, including ‘Lonely’ the Crocodile who came out to judge the Longest Drives on the 10th. 

The winners of Day 1 were a team called the Heineken Hagglers who included local lads Rhys Bawden (Salsa Bar and Grill) and Chris Buse (Coldwell Banker Real Estate). 

Channel 7 identity John Riordan managed to take out the golf buggy drivers award.

The competition is perfectly poised for day 2 at The Sea Temple Golf Club (Tuesday May 26th)

Port Douglas Golf Challenge Day Two - wrap up

A field of 104 tee off on time at 1100 Tuesday morning to contest the second day of the annual challenge for Port Douglas Carnivale, amidst scattered showers and some scattered rains after a hectic Monday evening watching music at the Courthouse, playing pool at Rattle 'N' Hum, or other wise enjoying the Carnivale week!

Whilst maybe half the players were happy to enjoy the day and lap up the shier beauty of the Sea Temple Golf Course, others were there to win and the battle was close.

In fact the eventual winners were determined by count-back. A secret golfing term meaning scoring backwards to see which team finished the round with few shots.

A net result of 120 by the Heineken Hagglers won the competition on count back from Mossman Pro-Shop/Pages Book Shop with Team Eagle coming in third.

120 net of 36 holes which is a fine display of golf by the 4 gents.

Manager of Sea Temple Golf & Country Club Peter Douglas said, "I would recommend to all readers to email the Sea Temple today to ensure your team is secured for 2010!"

The Final Results

CARNIVALE PRIZES
25 AND 26 MAY 2009.

DAY ONE……….MIRAGE COUNTRY CLUB

BEST NETT DAY ONE……58.5 HEINEKIN HAGGLERS

RUNNER UP DAY ONE…60 TEAM EAGLE

THIRD PLACE DAY ONE…60 3/8 SEA TEMPLE STAFF TEAM

MENS NTP …2 PETER CHRISFEILD

MENS NTP…18 TY SLATER

LADIES NTP…8   JAN THOMPSON

LADIES NTP…JENNIFER HIBBERT

MENS LONG DRIVE…TEAM MANDALAY

MENS LONG DRIVE…BRYANT LUNG

LADIES LONG DRIVE…TEAM EAGLE………………………………….

LADIES LONG DRIVE…ADDI  BUTORAC…………………………………


.

DAY TWO……….SEA TEMPLE GOLF CLUB

BEST NETT DAY TWO…DINNER FOR 4 STGCC & 4 X POLO SHIRT
 MOSSMAN PROSHOP AND PAGES BOOK SHOP

1………PETER CHRISFIELD
 2………JOHN AXTENS
3………KAREN AXTENS
4……….JOHN PETHERBRIDGE



RUNNER UP DAY TWO…18 HOLES FOR 4 STGCC
HEINEKEN HAGGLERS

1………..RYHS BAWDEN
2……….CHRIS BUSE
3……….LACHLAN LEISHMAN
4………..CHRISTIAN KNOWLES

THIRD PLACE DAY TWO…4 X SUNDAY BREAKFAST AT STGCC
                                                 VALUED TO $35 PER PERSON
TEAM EAGLE
1………….MARION WRIGHT
2………….PAUL WRIGHT
3………….ERINA WILLIAMS
4……………NIKKI BRUCE

MENS NTP …HOLE 3……HEINKEN ESKY…
PETER CHRISFIELD…………………………

MENS NTP…HOLE 15…… ONE HOUR MASSAGE   STG&CC

CLINT G…………….

LADIES NTP…HOLE 6…STPC 30 MIN FACIAL /30 MIN PEDICURE…
………
TRAVEEN PAGE

LADIES NTP…HOLE 11…… JOSEPHINES……………
MARION WRIGHT

…………………… .
MENS LONG DRIVE…HOLE 4…… CHANNEL 7 GIFT PACK…………………
PAUL WRIGHT

MENS LONG DRIVE…HOLE 17……CHANNEL 7 GIFT PACK………………
BRYANT LUNG……………….

LADIES LONG DRIVE…HOLE 5…… JOSEPHINES…………………………….
NIKKI BRUCE………………..

LADIES LONG DRIVE…HOLE 12…STGC POLO  ………………………………
JENNIFER HIBBERT…………………….


GOLF WORLD MENS LONG DRIVE PETER CHRISFIELD
LADIES LONG DRIVE …JENNY HIBBERT 

OVERALL BEST NETT OVER TWO DAYS AND 2009 WINNERS

HEINEKIN HAGGLERS


1…RYHS BOWDEN

2…CHRIS BUSE

3…LACHLAN LEISHMAN

4…CHRISTIAN KNOWLWES

OVERALL RUNNERS UP BOTH DAYS……………

MOSSMAN PRO-SHOP/PAGES BOOK SHOP

1 PETER CHRISFIELD
2 JOHN AXTENS
3 KAREN AXTENS
4 JOHN PETHERBRIDGE

http://www.seatemplegolf.com.au

Sea Temple Golf & Country Club

More sports stories here: Port Douglas Sports

Wednesday 27 May

Aerial Surveillance praised for it's role in protecting the Great Barrier Reef

Following a case in the Cairns Magistrates Court  on 14th May, Border Protection Command has been praised for its role in helping to protect the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park with it's aerial surveillance. 'The Great Barrier Reef stretches over 1500km along the Queensland coast and their role in helping to protect it has proved highly successful.  

Their role has produced a string of convictions at Cairns Magistrates Court for illegal fishing activities including the collecting of marine animals in a protected area at the Swains Reefs last year and the collecting of beche-de-mer (sea cucumber) in the Green Zone.  

Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority Chairman Russell Reichelt said illegal collecting and fishing could have a serious impact on the entire ecosystem and those who depend on it.

He said - 'Sustainable use of the Marine Park is critically important to the future of the marine environment and the many communities and industries that depend on the Reef for their livelihoods. 'A healthy reef is very important for the economy - Great Barrier Reef industries generate $5.4billion to the Australian economy each year.

Dr Reichelt said Border Protection Command is among a range of important partners working together to help oversee the Reef.

'The Great Barrier Reef stretches for 1500 kms along the Queensland Coast and this co-operative approach is essential to maintain surveillance over the whole area.

The zoning rules are enforced to ensure protected areas can continue to benefit the plants, animals and habitats in the Reef and allow the natural functions of the ecosystem to operate in an undisturbed way.

All current indications are that zoning is working and monitoring reports show fish are increasing in both size and number. North Queensland scientists found a spectacular recovery in Coral Trout numbers on the rested reefs following the introduction of protected, no-take areas in 2004.

www.gbrmpa.gov.au

Wednesday 27 May

Audi Centre Cairns Clipper Cup 2009

Port Douglas Yacht Club Audi Centre Cairns Clipper Cup 2009 eased into the first three races at the weekend.  Saturday morning’s mill pond conditions delayed the start of Race One providing crews with time to swap stories from Friday night’s exciting Carnivale Parade in which the PDYC participated in Audi Centre Cairns cars including the sporty TT convertible and the luxurious Audi S8.

The Start Boat dropped the flag and sounded the hooter for Races One at 11.10am and skippers strategized to find the patches of the three knot breeze to beat their way to the windward marker.  Light conditions still provided close racing and tactics proved even more critical as yachts rounded the buoy in clusters.  A very light spinnaker run to the bottom marker allowed Magic Sea FM’s skipper Doug Ryan to overtake Groove’s skipper Belinda Cooper and Southern Hustler’s skipper John Jamieson with enough lead to cross the finish line of the one lap shortened race to win the race with handicap time adjustment.  Race One results were Magic Sea FM 1st, Southern Hustler 2nd, and Brian Cleland’s Sundowner in third.

By 2 pm the light breezes strengthened to a solid five knots for Race Two with competitors racing two laps of the four nautical mile windward leeward course. Very close racing from start to finish provided many close encounters of the yachting kind.  Whilst John Jamison’s Southern Hustler wrestled with Belinda Cooper’s Groove in the lead, Bob Cleland’s Sundowner, John Gould’s Farr Better, and Doug Ryan’s Magic Sea FM battled mere centimetres apart.  The fleet striving to out strategise and bluff for the entire race with Helen & Mick Gwilliams Ice, Vic Petris Cirro, Chris Mitchell’s Lady Bubbly, Tim Preuss’ Ann-Sea, and Marco Plannagger’s Berroca Daze all battling tactics and jostling positions.  Race Two line honours and race victory went to John Jamieson’s Southern Hustler edging out a charging Belinda Cooper on Groove, with Mr Consistent Doug Ryan’s Magic Sea FM taking third.

Sunday morning greeted the fleet with eight to ten knot breezes for the epic thirty four nautical mile course set from Four Mile Beach around Snapper Island and Low Isles and back to Four Mile Beach.  The Start began as a reach before the anticipated wind change forced yachts to work around the windward marker in a tight bunch and set course for Snapper Island.  Southern Hustler forced their way around the windward marker ahead of Groove as they again engaged in close battle with Lady Bubbly and Farr Better rounding safely behind them.  The twelve mile reach and spinnaker run to Snapper Island, Magic Sea FM passed the lead group on a lower course rounding Snapper Island with the field hot on their stern headed by Ice, Sundowner, Southern Hustler and Groove all within two boat lengths with the remainder of the field spread out.  Beating from Snapper Island to Low Isles, Magic took the initiative to tack to Port with the majority of the Fleeting following suit. Farr Better and Groove worked up the left outer side of the course proving advantageous with Groove rounding Low Isles in the lead followed by Magic Sea FM and Sundowner with Farr Better hot on their heels.  A tight spinnaker reach back to the Four Mile Beach finish line saw Groove taking Line Honours with a photo finish second place with Magic Sea FM snubbing out Sundowner whilst Farr Better edged out Ice for fourth..

“With three of six races complete, the series remains wide open with six yachts within five points.  Out on the water yachts are so close that even over a long course they are battling to the finish line finishing within seconds.  This weekend’s final three races are set off Four Mile Beach with two windward / leeward races Saturday and a Four Mile Beach to Low Isles loop for the final race this coming  Sunday.  This year’s racing is very close and great fun, which is all thanks to the hard work and donated time of dedicated Port Douglas Yacht Club members, the competitors, and the generous sponsors such as Audi Cairns Centre, Sheraton Mirage, and Quicksilver.” Luke Robins PDYC Rear Commodore

For a full schedule of Carnivale events visit www.carnivale.com.au

Monday 25 May

The Great Aussie Arvo lived up to its name !

It’s not often you can say that you are part of history in the making but 1500 Port Douglas residents and visitors experienced just that last Saturday afternoon.  In years to come they will be able to say “I was there’ at Carnivale’s  inaugural “Great Aussie Arvo” concert held in Jalunbu Park right next door to the Life Saving Club on Four Mile Beach .

The massive crowd that came along to witness this unique event laid out their blankets and chairs and soaked in the entertainment amongst the Eucalyptus trees in a perfect picturesque setting for such a unique  occasion.  The glorious mature trees generously offered their welcome shade to the gathering on this gorgeous tropical sunny  Saturday afternoon. 

The music was amazing, each performer gave it everything they had and the atmosphere generated by the audience  just got more and more exciting as the line-up worked its way towards the climax when Aussie legend Nick Barker hit the stage.

All afternoon the crowds kept coming in from their family beach day activities swelling the crowd to a peak in time for Mike Berwick to say a few words and encourage the crowd to continue the local and environmental fight against ignorance and politics. 

Willy Joe and the Swamp dust set the scene and Nick Barker supplied the icing on the cake with a superb relaxed half hour set of his originals illustrating just why he is considered one of Australia’s finest talents.

Grand Theft Audio rocked  the afternoon out with a superb array of covers that generated a ‘Woodstock festival’ feel as the ‘mosh pit’ danced  the arvo away.

Josh McConnell and Sam Cullen, the organizers of this amazing event drew the raffles and said their thank you’s and volunteer acknowledgements with the crowd rightfully cheering every word.

Sam Cullen’s final words were to remind everyone that this fabulous tree lined venue was just recently threatened  to become a car park – It brings to mind the lyrics of Joni Mitchell’s famous song ‘Big Yellow Taxi’ – “Don’t it always seem to go, that you don’t know what you’ve got till it’s gone. They paved Paradise and put up a parking lot…”  I don’t think so – not while there’s  this type of irresistible event to stage.  Can’t wait for Sunset in the Park this coming October !

More photos from the Great Aussie Arvo wil be available on tourismportdouglas.com.au soon.

For a full schedule of Carnivale events visit www.carnivale.com.au 

Monday 25 May

Record Crowds enjoy biggest Street Parade Ever !

What a night and what a beginning to Carnivale 2009.  The biggest crowds ever seen in Port Douglas flocked to see a record number of float entrants drive, ride, walk and in Micka and the Gusmans’ case, bicycle along the Street Parade route through the main streets of Port Douglas. 

The Port Douglas Chamber of Commerce should enjoy the fruits of their brave decision to make the Street Parade a ‘free to enter’ event.  The Chamber with the willing participation of all concerned from the main organisation committee to the volunteers and the good natured crowds produced a night to remember for all the right reasons. 

It must have been thrilling for the organising committee to see such a success bearing in mind that just a few short weeks ago, the whole 2009 Carnivale looked like having to be cancelled through circumstances way beyond their control.  It's at times like this that leaders step forward and that is exactly what Port Douglas has witnessed from their Chamber.  The pubs were full and fun, the crowds were enjoying the family entertainment laid on as well the food stalls with their wide variety of cuisine. 

This year the atmosphere generated around Port Douglas and surrounding areas was one of a region that wanted to demonstrate to the whole watching world that their unique identity is very much alive and kicking.  The effort put into the 55 of floats by every participant was exceptional. 

Special mention, of course, should go to the winning float of Carnivale 2009 from Port Douglas Neighbourhood Centre.  Click on Social Photos on this site to see a full range of photos from the Street Parade and set up. 

The Street Parade launched Carnivale 2009 in sensational form.  With this much excitement generated the Saturday Family Beach Day is going to be fantastic fun.  It starts with the Court House Hotel Beach Cricket competition, then onto the Sand Castle competition and "A Come and Try it, you'll like it' session for the Outriggers and even a sky diving demonstration from the Sky Safari helicopter ! 

Just as the Beach activities are completed, The Great Aussie Arvo opens it's gates at Jalunba Park next to the Surf Life Saving Club and plays host to a wealth of local talent and is headlined by Aussie Superstar Nick Barker. 

No early nights for anyone this week !!  For full schedule of events visit www.carnivale.com.au  

Monday 25 May

Port Douglas Muddies win Inaugural Court House Hotel Beach Cricket Competition

Not a cloud in the sky, the azure blue sky smiled down on the eager participants who had gathered on Four Mile Beach, as the tide dutifully receded to allow the Inaugural Court House Hotel Beach Cricket Competition to get under way.

A record Ten teams had been entered and as soon as the first game got under way, it was obvious no prisoners were gong to be taken !  Special mention should go to the lads n’ dads who battled their way through to the semi finals before meeting their match against finalists ‘The Tenacious Teens’ led by Sammy “Hollywood” Evans and his merry men !  If only the Dads had pulled their weight the Lads would have made it all the way !  The Reef Raiders were narrowly beaten on the last ball of the semi final by ‘The Muddies’ to set up a gripping Inaugural Grand Final for the impressive trophy kindly sponsored by The Court House Hotel”.

Could the Muddies make the trophy theirs or was “Hollywood” Evans and his uniquely selected team of specialists drawn from every pub in the area going to spring a surprise. 

Throughout the tournament the surprise package for the Muddies had been the dazzling skills of Jesse, from ‘Taste on Macrossan’ with her incredible over, taking two wickets for no runs, in an earlier round against ‘The Top Spinners’.   Could she repeat this feat ?  The answer was yes, she could, but with The Muddies top scorer “Goodo” damaging his foot  rendering unable to run , some breathtaking fielding from both sides, the game still came down to the last ball with Evans bowling to the mighty Drago with just one run for victory !  The ball was bowled like lightning, the bat flashed like a blur and the ball raced across the boundary even faster for a ‘Muddies’ victory.  The Tenacious teens had been vanquished !  What a fitting climax to a well fought competition by all teams entered.

And for those who fought the fight, hey, there’s always next year !
For full selection photos from the competition click on tourismportdouglas.com.au and click on social photos.

For a full schedule of Carnivale events visit www.carnivale.com.au 

Tuesday 26 May

Three Days of Fun, Fitness and Fund - Raising

Saturday Afternoon May 30th at 2.30pm at the Rydges pool the Latitude 16 sponsored Kidz Triathlon takes place for 7 – 17yrs with various distances for different age groups; individuals and teams (2 or 3 kids per team), medals and certificates will be presented.

 
Late Saturday Afternoon is the Tri-Port Race the BALLY HOOLEY steam railyway fun run. This is a great novelty event that will raise funds for local childrens charity KIND. It will be a 4.5 km cross country course and is open to everyone, and the organisers are encouraging everyone to have a go and remember someone has to come last !  Even if you are not competing bring the kids down for a ride on the Bally Hooley Railway (kids under 6 are free). It sounds like it will be a lot of fun… Be at the Balley Hooley Station at the Marina at 4.00pm for registration, race start is 4.30pm sharp.

 
Sunday morning it’s the ‘Big’ one.  The Tri-Port Hahn Super Dry sprint distance triathlon. This is open to individuals and teams, with a focus on participation and the corporate teams. There is a perpetual trophy for the corporate teams (how good would it look in your shop front ?). Registration for this event is from 9.00am at the Port Douglas Surf Club. Race start is 10.00 am.

 
So whether you are a fitness fanatic, a fun runner or part of the support team all these NON PROFIT events are community based activities designed to showcase Port Douglas and the KIND charity and by just coming along and cheering the participants on, the events generate an excitement that helps to define Carnivale 2009  .

If you have any questions please ask, guy@latitude16.com.au

Tuesday 26 May

Locals asked to keep an eye out for stolen vehicle

One of SkySafari vehicles was stolen from Port Douglas last week in a break & enter at their Craiglie base. Below are the details for the vehicle. It has been seen in the Cairns & Palm Cove area over the last couple of days but it hasn’t been found yet.

TOYOTA CAMRY ALTISE SEDAN – 007 HXT – WHITE – SKYSAFARI WRITTEN ALL OVER IT

To assist in it’s recovery, if anyone sees this very recognisable vehicle please give Za Harricharan a call on 07 4099 3666.

Tuesday 26 May

Douglas United U7s Soccer Carnival

Back row – Douglas United Coaches – Jess, Jenny and Jason. Middle Row – Nicholas Raynor, Ethan Crees, Bailey Morrison, Connor White, Jake Read, Brennen Jones. Front row – Kai Pendlebury, Charlie Dowling, Jack Carr, Jack Cox.

On Sunday, May 24th, Douglas United sent two teams of under 7’s to Petersen Park Edmonton for a Soccer Carnival with other local soccer clubs.

The boys performed really well winning all their games, scoring lots of goals and using the skills that they have been learning on Thursday afternoons at soccer practice and on Saturday morning training sessions when they have small-sided games.

Thursday 21 May

Songwriter’s Challenge heat 2 – Four go through at the Courty

A wealth of talent gathered at the Court House Hotel for Round 2 of the 2009 Songwriter’s Challenge organised by Livewire Music’s Drew Weyand.  Eighteen acts set out from 7.00pm and performed a breathtaking array of their incredible original compositions. 

After the fantastic support for Heat 1 held at The Highlander in Julatten on Monday, the competition just got fiercer and fiercer as the quality of music got better and better.

The three judges, Cameron Walton from Port Douglas Catering, Frank Frikker from Wellness in Port, and Roy Weavers from Newsport Daily oversaw proceedings at the Courty and confessed that it was extremely hard to chose between the songs but a winner had to be found and tough choices had to be made. Four winning acts finally emerged after a close good natured but mighty battle. 

Eagle bubbled to top as the heat winner with last year’s winner Rob Hart coming in a close second.  The other two performers who won through were Josh Adams and Rick Brown who got fourth place on count back.  These four join the three winners from Julatten and will be completed by three more on Friday May 22nd with the winners of Heat 3 taking place at the Mossman Golf Club. 

All ten finalists will then perform at the Grand Final being presented at the Court House Hotel on Friday May 29th from at 7.00pm

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Friday 22 May

Here we go, here we go, here we go !!!

It’s here !!  Today marks the Official start of Carnivale 2009.  Macrossan Street is already closed between Owen Street down to Wharf Street so that preparations can be made for the Main Stage construction at the junction of Grant Street and Macrossan Street where The Ku Ku Yalanji people will open this years’ community activities with their ‘Our People Our Culture’ presentation at 4.30pm.

The Street Parade follows at 7.00pm so for the best view you’d better be in position by latest 6.30pm, there’s going to a massive crowd cheering on the participants and their floats.

IMPORTANT MESSAGE from the organisers of the Great Aussie Arvo – The on line ticket service has closed but you can purchase tickets at the gate on the day – NO PROBLEM !

Carnivale Event Organisers support the responsible drinking campaign and are very keen to see everyone enjoying themselves and having a safe and fun time throughout the entire duration of the Carnivale.

Let’s Party !!!!

Wednesday 20 May

Miss Port Douglas Carnivale crowned

Photo: Martine Cotton

‘Pageants are dead’ was the lone cry from the Douglas, after it was announced that this year the Chamber of Commerce Carnivale Committee would hold a Miss Carnivale and Miss Charity competition for the first time in an effort to help raise funds for this years under sponsored event.

Last nights audience at the ‘SOLD OUT’ event held at The Port Douglas Combined Club, The Tin Shed watched 18yr old, local, Sarah Pegler-Bumstead crowned as Miss Carnivale 2009.

She pipped, not only, the other seven girl entrants at the post but also three Port Douglas lads. That’s right Mr Carnivale’s entrants.  Peter Ryan was crowned Mr Carnivale and he said he was ‘stoked’ at his win.

Corrine Durey the Pageant Manager said “ We had to have Mr Carnivale because the first 3 entrants to Miss Carnivale were blokes !  Joshua Bowie, Brian Woolley and & Peter Ryan.  The lads gave it away on the night that their original motivation to enter was Corrine’s persistence, ‘Go Corrine’, but in the end they admitted they had thoroughly enjoyed raising money for their causes and surprisingly found themselves quite comfortable treading the red carpet and on the mic in front of the audience.

Michael Jones, President of the Tin Shed (Combined Club) Port Douglas, Carnivale’s Major sponsor was elated at not only the significant turnout impressed by his club’s new overwater ‘deck’ but at the Douglas enthusiasm and mighty ground swell of support for this worthy cause.

The night also saw Miss Charity crowned, with over $2,200 raised by Samantha Wolfe. The entrants raised monies for individually nominated charities including Beyond Blue, Prostate Awareness, Starlight Foundation, Jane McGrath Foundation, The Australian Medical Fire Unit and the Mossman Hospital (Miss Carnivale’s selected Charity)

Total amounts are yet to finalized (in excess of $7,000) but it is clear that this event has now firmly etched itself into the Carnivale program for the years to come.

Thursday 20 May

Getaway takes a stroll down Four Mile Beach

Four Mile Beach will be the focus of tomorrow evenings Channel 9 Getaway program at 7pm as they look at our world famous beach and what makes it so attractive to holiday makers the world over.

Managing Director of tourismportdouglas.com.au, Sam Cullen said he was contacted about 6 weeks ago with regard to the show after their researcher had spent considerable time using the tourismportdouglas.com.au website to contact operators in the region.

They asked us to submit what we thought were the best things about the beach.

Four mile Beach is the unsung hero of Port Douglas' world famous destination reputation and will undoubtedly be compared favourably to some of the other world famous beaches in tomorrow's show, he said.

The team were up here about two weeks ago and Port dutifully laid on good weather so we are looking forward to seeing the show.

Grub's Personalized Trike Tours were their host for most of their very short time here.

This type of exposure is a great sign for the industry up here even with slow times that Port Douglas is still regarded as one the most sought after destinations in Australia, appealing to a very diverse visitor market.

Thursday 21 May

What's in a name at Clement's

On Wednesday evening May 20th, the popular balcony restaurant “Le Sixieme Sens” changed it’s name to “Clement’s Restaurant and Bar”. 

A large congregation of friends and delighted customers were invited to celebrate the name change and celebrate they did !   Head Chef and owner Clement Wurtrich and his partner Marianne were delighted at the huge support for the re-opening and name change for this fine French cuisine establishment. 

Whilst the canapés, champagne and fine wines flowed Clement commented that “Everyone seems happy that they can now pronounce the name of the restaurant”.  For Bookings ph: 07 4099 6338 or email clementsrestaurant@bigpond.com  

Wednesday 20 May

3 days to go - The Countdown to Port Douglas Carnivale

Just THREE days to go before the 2009 Carnivale takes over our live !  On Friday May 22nd festivities will start on the main stage at the junction of Grant Street and Macrossan street with a new event entitled " Our People Our Culture” presented by the ku Ku Yalanji people.   

The Kuku Yalanji people are the traditional owners and custodians of the Douglas region.  With this event, ‘Our People Our Culture’, they express their traditions through weaving song and dance.  The event begins with a ‘Welcome to Country’.   

This is monologue acknowledges the unique position of Aboriginal people in Australian culture and history as the original custodians of the land by an elder of the Kuku Yalanji people, which is protocol for special events taking place in their traditional lands. It follows with an invitation to the wider community to share in the Kuku Yalanji culture and heritage.

The Walker Brothers Band are presenting modern indigenous music, plus a set of traditional song and dance. This free event is not to be missed.

The Street Parade follows at 7pm and the word is out that there going to be plenty of fun and frolics on the floats this year.  Naturally the floats are a closely guarded secret but rumours suggest the Friends of Douglas and Radio Port Douglas floats will be ones to watch !

The Court House Hotel Beach Cricket Competition has reported that all team places are filled but with the weather forecast predicting a good one, if players want to come along, many of the teams will be happy to have extra players as subs.

Of course even before the Cricket is finished and the trophy presented at 1pm (ish), the sand castle building competition will be in full flow.  Reports are coming in that some families are getting pretty serious about this years competition.  Local architects have been recruited to create detailed construction  plans in an attempt to beat the innovative design of the cow dressed in a hula hula skirt that won it last year !

On this opening day of Carnivale 2009 there is no time to draw breath !  At midday the newest event for the Carnivale, The Great Aussie Arvo concert opens it’s gates at Janbulu Park next to the Surf Club.  Whether you were at last years ‘Sunset in the Park’ or not you will know you just cannot miss The Great Aussie Arvo. What a line-up of superstars !  With Nick Barker headlining and Grand Theft Audio taken us to the close, it promises to be another Port Douglas Legend.   (Tickets available from www.tourismportdouglas.com.au, click on Events and Ticket sales.

Saturday evening after The Great Aussie Arvo continues with a full itinerary of activities.  The Songwriter’s Competition, a free event, is being held at the Mossman Golf Club from 8 pm where local song writer’s will compete in Heat 3 to present their own song compositions for a chance to reach the  Grand Final at the Court House on Friday May 29th fro 7.30pm.  The Masquerade Party is being held from 7pm at the Port Douglas Community Hall starts at 7pm. This years Sole Charity beneficiary is KIND.  Dress code is cocktail wear and masks are a must.  Cost $50 per person and tickets are available from www.tourismportdouglas.com.au or 4099 4540 OR Oceanic Art Gallery 4099 4490.

Other weekend events running over the two days include The Tin Shed Kids Fishing Competition (Sat 8.00 to 11.30am and Sun 1.00 to 3.30pm, The Airing of the Quilts in Mossman (Sat 9am to 5pm and Sun 9am to 3pm).  The Clink Theatre are also presenting “Celtic Roots” a celebration of Celtic Music and Dance from 6.30pm .  For FULL details of ALL the events being held over the Carnivale period go onto www.carnivale.com.au

Thursday 21 May

Drink wine not water

Cairns Regional Council once again demonstrated how out of touch they are with the Douglas Region by announcing that they are to chlorinate the Port Douglas water supply starting as from Monday May 25th. 

Carnivale events and activities will be in full swing by Monday and the locals and visitors will be wining and dining their way through record quantities of beer and wine with not the slightest mention of water passing their lips. 

Do the Council even know the Carnivale is on ? or call us cynical but maybe they were just trying to slip another broken election promise through without anyone noticing until the Douglas residents were nursing their aching heads the following week when everything would taste disgusting !

Thursday 20 May

Treetops Resort gets the Mercure makover

The Treetops Resort & Spa, is joining Accor’s Mercure Hotel network after the completion of a major refurbishment. The hotel is to be rebranded as Mercure Port Douglas Treetops Resort from today, 20 May 2009.

Tropical North Queensland’s Port Douglas has been one of Australia’s fastest growing resort destinations with its easy access to World Heritage listed Daintree Rainforest and the incomparable Great Barrier Reef.

The 224 room resort has been extensively renovated during the last six months, including upgrading of rooms, the restaurant and public areas and a new colour scheme throughout the entire complex.

Within the hotel’s attractive rainforest setting is a spectacular lagoon pool and waterfall, adjacent to an open-air restaurant (Tree Bar & Grill) with a swim-up pool bar and rainforest trees literally growing through the roof. This natural ecosystem is a habitat for native wildlife, including large barramundi in the ponds, countless breeds of native birds and spectacular Ulysses butterflies.

The hotel also offers The Wharf restaurant overlooking the lily ponds and the Cockatoo Lounge (where the resort’s resident cockatoo, Bozo, holds court).

The hotel guest facilities include the Treetops Spa, which offers the latest health and beauty therapies in nine treatment rooms housed within a unique tree house-styled building linked by walkways.

With its joining of the Mercure network, Treetops is anticipating major growth in its conference and incentive business. The purpose-built conference centre accommodates up to 160 guests (theatre style) in a spacious area bathed in natural light. The Events Centre also makes the most of its location, with the large decking area overlooking a creek. The deck is capable of hosting up to 100 guests for a breakout session or cocktail party.

Bridget Catterall, General Manager of the Best Management Group, said that the completion of the upgrading and the partnership with Mercure signaled a new era for the resort.

“Our guests have responded very encouragingly to the hotel’s new look and feel, and we believe that with Mercure branding we will be able to expose the resort to an even wider domestic and international market,” she said.

Accor Vice President Australia, Simon McGrath, said the addition of Mercure Port Douglas Treetops was a significant milestone for Accor.

“The addition of Treetops marks a very special occasion for Accor as it will take our Australian network to over 20,000 rooms – the first hotel group to achieve such a mark in Australia,” McGrath said.

Thursday 19 May

Countdown to Port Douglas Carnivale

Just FOUR more days to go before the 2009 Carnivale comes alive on Friday May 22nd at 7pm with what promises to be the best ever Street Parade down and around Port Douglas’ Main Street. This opening event always attracts a big crowd and reports from the organisers indicate that the Parade has attracted a record number of floats.  Looks like it’s going to be a wonderful opener !

On Saturday’s Beach Day, the fun begins with the Court House Hotel Beach Cricket Competition where eight teams will challenge for the annual bragging rights for this fun-filled event.

Immediately following the Cricket, the whole family can set their imaginations alight for the sand castle building competition.  As an indication of the creativity of this event it should be remembered that a cow dressed in a hula hula skirt won it last year !

At midday the biggest and newest event for the Carnivale will kick off at Janbulu Park next to the Surf Club.  The Great Aussie Arvo concert has a sensational line-up of local talent with Aussie Superstar, Nick Barker to headline.  This afternoon of music, fun, food, family and friends has been organised by the group who brought Port Douglas the Sunset in the Park last October where over 2,000 locals had the time of their lives. With ticket sales rocketing, this concert shows all the signs of rocking the town in just the same way ! (Tickets available from www.tourismportdouglas.com.au, click on Events and Ticket sales.

If, after the Great Aussie Arvo Concert, any proof is still needed that this area has so much local talent it could burst, then get along to the Songwriter’s Competition being held at the Mossman Golf Club from 8 pm where local song writer’s will compete in Heat 3 to present their own song compositions for a chance to win the 2009 Trophy and a whole bunch of time in studio to make a recording of their winning song.  Heat 2 is being held on Wednesday evening at the Court House Hotel with the Grand Final for the selected 9 finalists being held at the Courty on Sat 29th.

Other weekend events running over the two days include The Tin Shed Kids Fishing Competition (Sat 8 to 11.30am and Sun1 to 3.30pm, The Airing of the Quilts in Mossman (Sat 9am to 5pm and Sun 9am to 3pm).  For FULL details of ALL the events being held over the Carnivale period go onto www.carnivale.com.au

Wednesday 13 May

Carnivale's Street Parade tapped with entertaiment

Port Douglas, 12 May 2009… The theme for this year’s Port Douglas Carnivale is ‘Icons of Douglas’ and the 10,000 visitors who line up along Macrossan Street to watch the Street Parade every year will be rewarded with some very unique floats and entertainers on Friday 22rd May, the organisers promise.

Macrossan Street will be closed to traffic and street stalls will commence operating from 4.30pm.

First up is a new event to launch the festivities: Our People Our Culture from the Kuku Yalanji, the region’s traditional owners. The event begins with a ‘Welcome to Country’ which acknowledges the unique position of Aboriginal people in Australian culture and history as the original custodians of the land. It follows with an invitation to the wider community to share in the Kuku Yalanji culture and heritage. The Walker family, widely known throughout the Kuku Yalanji lands, will lead the experience of Our People Our Country, with the Walker Brothers Band presenting modern indigenous music, plus a set of traditional song and dance. 

Kicking the fun along will be some talented tapping from Brisbane based dancers, Those Tap Guys. Their tailored show combines heart stopping music, hip hop infused tap dancing and acrobatics. “Those Tap Guys are high energy, captivating performers who look the part and will really wow the audience,” said organiser Susie Marr. The five performers present a set which goes from street infused tap dance through an oldfashioned swing format and back again to street tap, all presented with creative flair energy and a cheeky, fun approach. Those Tap Guys have been performing to corporate and private events for over ten years and will bring their memorable talents to the Macrossan Street Parade.

The entertainment continues for young and old. There’s the Rhythms of The Hillbilly Goats, Captain Smartypants will be entertaining the kids with magic tricks, giant bubbles and balloon animals; The Black Mountain Rogues will play a rocking set, and Miss Molly's Street Show and roving circus performers will move through the crowds.

All night long, fun can be had for everyone at the amusement park set up at the seafront end of Macrossan Street. After the parade comes everyone’s favourite, the fireworks display, scheduled for around 8.30pm.

For more info visit www.carnivale.com.au

Monday 11 May

Court House Hotel Inaugural Annual Beach Cricket Competition

A reminder to anyone who is looking to put a team together for this exciting Carnivale event on the Beach Family Fun Day down at the Surf Club end of Four Mile Beach from 9.30am.

Please phone 4015 3923 to register your team (minimum 6 players needed but you can have more as subs through the competition. Boys, girls, kids and adults all welcome) plus your team name. This will ensure you are one of the eight teams in the heated competition.

Don’t panic if you would like to play but can’t get a full team of six players organised, just phone in to register your interest and you will be grouped together with other interested players to create a couple of teams before the big day.

With the Court House Hotel Perpetual Trophy to play for, which will be on display at the Courty for the whole year with full bragging rights for the winners before they have to defend it again the following year, this a not to be missed event for any cricket lover.

Don’t delay phone today !

Wednesday 7 May

Carnivale's Celebrity Lovin Mascot - Henry Cock-a-Three

The earlybirds were out this morning on the Cairns Esplanade for Seven’s
Sunrise weather crosses. 

Making an impact with the network’s celebrity weather presenter, Fifi Box, was a local cocky by the name of Henry Cockathree.

Henry is a 40 year old bird that knows a few tricks. He can speak, play dead and ‘eagle’ (flare his wings up) on command. His filmography is growing; this is his second appearance on the Seven Network in as many days – last week he met Andrew Gaze, the new presenter for the upcoming network lifestyle show The Good Life.

Although he loves meeting celebrities, Henry is a working cockatoo and his significant gig is being the official mascot for Port Douglas Carnivale. He’ll ride on the shoulder of master Davvyd Brown when he leads the festival’s flagship event, the Macrossan Street Parade, along Port Douglas’ high street on Friday 23rd May.

Visitors to Carnivale (May 22-31st) can look out for Henry making more guest appearances at other Carnivale favourites such as the Meridien Marinas Seafood Extravaganza and the Four Mile Beach Family Day. Port
Douglas Carnivale is a 10 day celebration of tropical culture where the seaside village becomes a living postcard of tropical culture with 28 free and ticketed events.

For more visit www.carnivale.com.au

Tuesday 5 May

First Cairns Bluesfest goes off

2000 people packed into the Cairns Blues Festival on Sunday 3 May for the first festival of its kind in Cairns.

Dallas Frasca and guitarist Jeff at the Cairns Blues Festival 2009

With local star Danny Ross kicking off on the solo stage at 11am, it really set the scene for what was in store for the rest of the day.

The Flamin Canetoads hit the main stage with loud base and even louder vocals from Fox. The band has been together about 3 years and are really starting to make some headway in the blues music scene. The Flamin Canetoad's play there next gig at The Cowbay Hotel on May the 30 and it certainly is something to check out.

Dallas Frasca fresh off the plane from Canada turned the crowd from a listening crowd into a dancing crowd with her passionate booming voice which resonated throughout the park area. Before that Mal Eastick the amazing guitarist, returned to Cairns after a hiatus of a few years and showed everyone what we have all been missing for many years with his amazing rhythm.

Johno's Blues Band, Jesse Dean-Freeman, 8-Ball Aitken and Chain rounded out the spectacular night.

These events are great for the North Queensland music scene as it gives talented musicians a place to ply their trade. So make sure you get along and support these festivals so that we can keep having such great performers in our local region.

Friday 1 May
Port Douglas Carnivale 2009 is launched

The Sea Temple Golf & Country Club hosted the launch of Port Douglas Carnivale 2009 yesterday with Carnivale Event Organiser Susie Marr saying it was a great afternoon for all.

"It was great to have the sponsors and the event organisers mingling together and getting excited about the fast coming 22 May Street Parade which kicks off the Carnivale for 2009"

After a great start with some beautiful ambient music, cold beverages and some elegant canapes, the guest were treated to a great display of low level flying by Brad from Skysafari and then landing in front of the club house on the 10th tee.

Spectators thought that was amazing but when two people ran out of the crowd and said they were going to skydive from 4000 feet, everyone was on the edge. All went smoothly and they landed on the 18th green, much to the amazement of two golfers waiting to finish their round.

This year's Port Douglas Carnivale runs from May 22 – 31st 31 and among popular favourites like the Macrossan Street Parade and Quicksilver's Food, Wine & A Taste of Port are new events such as the Australian Muster Experience's Bull Ride Spectacular, The Great Aussie Arvo Concert and the Tin Shed Fashion Awards.

Organised by the Port Douglas Chamber of Commerce, the event brings around 20,000 people into the seaside village during the 10 day program of sports, culture, music, food, fashion, films, concerts and family activities.   This year's theme is 'Icons of Douglas', best expressed in the spectacular float entries in the opening night’s street parade along Macrossan Street. 

President Ken Dobbs said the festival brought approximately 2 million dollars into the region.  "There's a great many event options to suit all styles and budgets.  Many of the most popular ones are free such as the Macrossan Street Parade, the Meridien Marina Seafood Extravaganza and the Four Mile Beach Family Day."

Tourism Port Douglas & Daintree boss Doug Ryan said accommodation houses had already reported good forward bookings, with the most popular being 3-5 day packages.  "Port Douglas Carnivale is always held late May during the shoulder period and is designed to kick off the visitor season for the region.  Our surveys show the spend is approx $250 - $500 per person and we anticipate around 95% occupancy during the two main weekends of the Carnivale program."

For more info visit www.carnivale.com.au or contact Ken Dobbs Tel: 0447624348

To find out more on Carnivale go to www.carnivale.com.au or or contact Ken Dobbs Tel: 0447624348

Events & tickets here: http://www.tourismportdouglas.com.au/events-ticket-sales.2104.0.html

Wednesday 29 April

Locals raise money for Jeremy Doble Memorial

A bitter sweet day was had last Sunday with spectacular weather met over 400 people in Rex Smeal Park for the Family Fun Day aimed at raising money for a permanent memorial for crocodile attack victim young Jeremy Doble.

Ditch and Michelle Vladich with some of their closest friends helped bring the day together which included jumping castles, face painting, arts and crafts, fire engine rides and live entertainment.

the organisers said they were amazed at the turnout and congratulated everyone for helping them raise over $1,500. They said all proceeds from the day will be returned to the community via a practical utility marking a permanent memorial for Jeremy.

The organisers wanted to make special thanks to their friends, the community at large, Reloaded Design, DJ Postie, Tropical Bounce, The Port Douglas Fire Brigade, IGA, Woolworths and Coles for contributing to the success of the day.

Monday 27 April

Helicopter in Mossman Gorge

Although helicopters are a regular occurrence form local air tour company's The Department of Environment and Resource Management apologises for any inconvenience caused by a contracted helicopter.

On Wednesday 29 from 8.44am there will be a helicopter in operation at Mossman Gorge for a couple of hours.

It is needed to sling in gravel and barrier fencing to a lookout just past the Rex Ck bridge on the loop track. There will be some unavoidable noise within the Gorge while to helicopter is in operation.

The Department of Environment and Resource Management apologises for any inconvenience.

Sunday 26 April

AME Bullride blows local crowd away

Round 2 of the Defence Jobs Bullride Spectacular rolled into the new look AME Stadium out in Whynbeel, last night with 2,000 people there to witness the event. Pre sold tickets were the flavour as hundreds missed out by not pre booking.

10 of Australia's best Bull Riders fought with Australia's most athletic Bucking Bulls making for a night that most locals will remember for a long time and revisit when given the next opportunity. Bodies usually followed hats into the air as these brave riders tested their courage against the mighty beasts. On more than one occassion the call went out for the medics.

All of the hard work and preparation of local AME Stadium owner Gordon Pringle, came to fruition on the night. This event has been a long term vision of his and his wife Nella.

The venue was truly breathtaking, entirely flood lite and readied for the massive event. Every aspect of the events management was professional. Crowds were well feed and watered with an abundance of quality food and drink whilst being thrilled by Australia's best rodeo action.

The night was also a success for with the families with plenty of grassed areas for rugs and prams with the immediate surrounding 'bullride ring' area set up for a dedicated children's gallery and 'hoe down'.

AME Stadium and the AME team has served up a great time for all and have launched the spectacular venue in true style. All this writer can say is bring on the next bucking event. I'm there.

Friday 24 April

Murder arrests in Cairns

Following an intensive three month investigation by Cairns detectives, the State Homicide Squad and the State Flying Squad from State Crime Operations Command, a Mareeba man and woman, aged 29 and 39, have been charged with murder.
 
Police commenced an investigation, conducted under the operation name Hotel Tennant, following the disappearance of Cairns man Lance Sobieralski on January 17, 2009.

Mr Sobieralski was reported missing to police on January 25 and since this time officers have conducted numerous inquiries, interviewed in excess of 200 witnesses and conducted a number of forensic examinations.

Police remain interested in talking to any person who has any information regarding the disappearance and suspected death of Mr Sobieralski and urge anyone with information to contact Cairns CIB or CrimeStoppers on 1800 333 000. To date, his remains have not been located.

Wednesday 22 April

Rate rise for tourism marketing

Cairns Regional Council has been working on a plan to double the contribution it makes to Tourism Tropical North Queensland each year. The increase is believed to be about $600,000, taking its contribution to over $1 million by raising commercial rates. It was reported yesterday that general rates will not increase.

Tourism Tropical North Queensland has now said that it will be left short by about $2 million of what it says it needs to increase marketing because of the financial crisis.

Council’s finance committee chairman Cr Alan Blake caused a stir by saying all ratepayers should foot the bill. General rate payers have responded by saying that marketers for the tourism industry should change the way they are marketing the region instead of spending more money doing the same tired campaigns.

Monday 20 April

Macrossan St to be trimmed

No trees will be removed as part of this maintenance. Works will begin on Monday 27 April 2009 during the hours of 7am to 4pm and will take one week to complete, weather permitting.

There will be temporary noise disruptions and some loss of parking while the works are carried out. Any inconvenience will be kept to a minimum.

For further information please contact Council on 4099 9444 or 1800 070 444.

Monday 20 April

Daintree River dredging

Annual dredging is vital to ensure a safe and reliable river crossing service for residents, tourists and essential service providers.

Norris Earthmoving contractors are scheduled to conduct work at night for an estimated two weeks beginning later this month (when tides are favourable).

There will be no interruption to the regular ferry service. For further information call Council on 4044 3303.

Thursday 16 April

Australia's Got Talent finalist turns out to be a local

His 59-year-old father taught him everything he knows.

Danik lives out of a caravan. Born in Russia, he started performing at the age of five with his circus family (mum, dad and two sisters). The family travelled all around Russia and China to perform before landing an 11-month performing contract in Australia. They never returned.

You may be thinking how is Danik to be considered a local ? Well he featured in the Great Siberian Circus that visited Port Douglas during the 2006 Carnivale performing nightly at Reynolds Park. It was a genuine family show with Mum and Dad and the kids all showcasing their circus skills. But it was Danik who stole the show when he performed incredible acrobatics dressed as a giant Green Tree Frog. And we should not forget he also performed on the Funkey Monkey Float along the Street Parade wowing the crowds with his fantastic feats of acrobatics on and off the back of the float.

He has gone on to prove he is truly the star of the show reaching the 2009 final of ‘Australia’s Got Talent’ so why shouldn’t we claim him as a local !!

Tuesday 14 April

Mossman Gorge Bridge closed

The Mossman Gorge, Rex Creek Bridge has been closed since the 9 April due to major repairs being needed on the suspension bridge.

Daintree Discovery Tours have reconstructed some of their Mossman Gorge tours, as no one will be able access the 2.7km walking track which can only be accessed via the bridge.

The Tourism & Visitor Services Branch of Queensland Parks & Wildlife Division is putting together a media release with times and dates of the closure's as they are expected to carry on for a number of months.

For further information please contact Wolf Sievers, Regional Manager, Wet Tropics Region, on (07) 4046 6657.

Monday 6 April

Glider crashes at Rex Lookout

When the 60 year old man crashed at about 5pm yesterday afternoon there were 20 to 30 vehicles all parked up watching him move through the air above the mountains at the Rex Lookout on the Captain Cook Highway.

Initial reports to rescuers was that the crash victim was stuck up a tree about 5m off the ground, but he managed to release himself from his harness and make his way back to the Highway. A motorist picked him up and drove him to the Wangatti school were the control centre was set up.

The man got caught out by a sudden change of weather and could not find a safe landing place and ended up crashing near Hartley's Creek.

 Monday 23 March

More deaths on north Queensland roads

It was reported in the Cairns Post today that there were another two deaths on North Queensland roads on Saturday 21 March, taking the road toll 13 in the north Queensland region.

A motorcyclist was believed to be speeding and crossed over white lines when he hit an on coming car on Captain Cook Highway on Saturday afternoon. Police say the motor bike rider died at the crash site with a passenger in the car suffering minor injuries. 

A Mossman Gorge man was hit on Johnston St in Mossman on Saturday at 11.40pm after he was found to be lying in the middle of the road. The motorist is said to have not seen the man lying on the road. The 43 year old man was taken to the Douglas Shire Multi Purpose Health Facilities by the paramedics but died a short time after arrival. 

With the road toll 10 more than this time last year, police are urging everyone to be extra vigilant on the roads.

Friday 20 March

Another threatening virus warning given by Norton and Microsoft

The following message has been distributed for your benefit. Please be warned 
especially if using internet mail such as Yahoo,  Hotmail, AOL and so on. 

This information arrived this morning direct from both Microsoft and Norton. 

You may  receive an apparently harmless email with a Power Point  presentation -  'Life  is beautiful.'

If you  receive it DO NOT OPEN THE FILE UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES ,  and delete  it immediately .

If  you open this file, a message will appear on your screen  saying: 'It is too late now, your life is no longer  beautiful.' 

Subsequently you will LOSE EVERYTHING IN YOUR PC and the person who sent it  to you will gain access to your name, e-mail and  password. 

This is  a new virus which started to circulate on Saturday  afternoon. 

AOL  has already confirmed the severity, and the antivirus software's are not capable of destroying it.

The  virus has been created by a hacker  who calls himself 'life owner.' 

Thursday 12 March

Trivia starts at Plantation

What a great start to this years competition with 5 teams taking part on the first night of the year.

Congratulations to the Lovely 3 on a terrific come from behind win on Wednesday Night. Coming in Second were The Orphans by 1 point on 42.

Remember before next months Trivia night each team has to prepare two, geography questions these questions can be handed to John on the night.
The easier the questions are, the more average points your team will score.

The low score round will be omitted after round five.

This means that any team that didn't make it to the first round hasn't lost any ground on the pack.

So if anyone still wants to enter a team, "it's not too late" and you can call Michael on (07) 4099 3522

Friday 6 May

Chamber hosts heated networking night

The Port Douglas Chamber of Commerce held its quarterly networking evening at Rydges Sabaya Resort last night attracting over 35 key business members. Chamber President Ken Dobbs expressed there was a very positive response to the general issue survey the Chamber had conducted with over 50% of the memberships opinions gathered thus far.

The most compelling responses were those involving the Port Douglas Waterfront and Amalgamation, generating at times a heated debate. Mr Dobbs indicated however that the networking evening was not the forum for this debate and the members responded well leaving it to another date to roll up the sleeves and really articulate their arguments.

Tony Dickinson of the Chamber reported the findings from the most recent CRC Water Board meetings where they expressed concerns about the state of the current water practices of the previous Council in order to fight future Ecoli outbreaks in the regions reservoirs. Mr Dickinson comments were met with dissent by a number of members saying the regions water storage and filtration systems are fine and that the push for chlorine or chemical additives are just a classic government policy initiative.

Mr Dickinson explained that it was not the job of the Chamber at this meeting to debate the scientific elements of the CRC's research with regard to Ecoli but to report to the membership the CRC outcomes from their research. Mr Dobbs invited motivated members to conduct their own research and forward it to the Chamber to assist in the Chambers next action regarding Water and the Douglas region.

Port Douglas Carnivale was also discussed with the Chamber reporting to its members a detailed update of where the new Carnivale Management Committee is up to. The membership expressed its support for the Chamber with all the members satisfied that the Committee was doing everything it could to overcome the mammoth job of running Carnivale.

The reports were finalised and the evening was turned over to the members and a broad based evening of networking was enjoyed.

Thursday 5 March

Swing sent home with clothes on

It has been reported in the Courier Mail that a tourist at The White Cockatoo Nudist Resort has caused a mini riot after being ask to take his cloths off in front of other naked guests.

Police had to be called to the "anything goes" sex party after the alleged man threatened violence. The man and his wife were ordered off the property.

The owner Tony Fox said the "mini-riot" started when four naked females protested when the fully-clothed man confronted.

"They felt uncomfortable with him eyeing them off and I asked him to show some respect and take his clothes off,"

"He then threatened to bash me, there was some argy-bargy and I ordered him off the premises and police were called." said the nudist colony manager in the Courier Mail today.

Friday 27 February

Muddies in the semis

The Court House Hotel Port Douglas Mudcrabs will travel down to Tully for their game against Mission Beach in the semi-final of the Cairns Cricket Competition this weekend.

After a display of cricket so bad by the Port Douglas players in the One Day semi-final, they are looking to go down and show the form that has seen them undefeated in the two day competition this season and who bowled Mission Beach out for under 70 runs when they first met in the two day competition before Christmas.

With the rain looking like it could be a problem, only a win for the Muddies will see them move into the Grand Final on the 8 March. Tully grounds keeper has had trouble all week trying to prepare the pitch due to the rain this week in the well publicised wettest town in Australia.

With only Daryl Mison unavailable the Muddies have a full side to pick from. The squad for the semi-final is from:

Nathan King, Keith Taylor, Haig Varcoe, Dale Arnell, Ryan Thwaite, Josh McConnell (c), Dave Marks, Tony Gooding (vc), Marty Tranter, Matt Schiesser, Sam Evans, Neil Weavers.

Wednesday 18 February

Local Port Douglas Accommodation Operator tells of family farm drama

These photo's below tell the story of just how close John Haymes of The Meridian at Port Douglas' family farm in Devon North, near Yarram in South Gippsland came to being destroyed when last weeks firestorms ravaged Country Victoria.


Mr Haymes says "it was very dramatic as we couldn’t raise my Mother or Brother and his family for 24 hours"

Monday 16 February

Beauty Around the World in Mossman

It has been reported in the Cairns Post that after Tahlia Burchill's segment on the TV show Beauty Around the World, which was filmed in Mossman in November 2008, has impressed Oprah Winfrey so much she wants to come out to the Douglas region to meet the new star.

                                                         Tahlia Burchill

Tahlia Burchill was one of three women from the Kuku Yalanji Tribe to be interviewed for the segment on Oprah Winfrey's show, and was "blown away by her".

So taken by Tahlia and the Kuku Yanlaji Tribe, Winfery is thinking of coming here to film a more in-depth segment about the Aboriginal rainforest tribe.Tahlia learned the exciting news on Friday and said "I'm up for it. I guess she's just such a role model in so many ways, shes a powerful person".

Tahlia is Captain of Mossman Sate High School, chair of the Leukaemia Foundation Mossman youth committee, in the school band, a cheerleader, representative athlete, exhibiting artist and dancer.

Thursday 12 February

Morning tea for the Mexicans in Port Douglas

After Innisfail received great support after Cyclone Larry, they have started raising for the Victorian Bushfire victims with Morning tea for the Mexicans, our own Kim Hurley from Radio Port Douglas thought this was great idea and organised for Port Douglas to support the event also, by hosting a morning tea at the Marina Mirage Port Douglas this morning.

        Andrea Campbell form Quicksliver, Doug Ryan from PDDT and Andrea Gibson

                                               from Poseidon join the people at Lure

Lure Restaurant at the Marina Mirage graciously hosted the event, and Bidvest Australia kindly donated cakes & muffins. Radio Port Douglas also hosted an Outside broadcast from 9.30 - 11am at Lure.

Over 100 people generously donated $2,321.05 in the hour and half to go directly to the Bushfire Appeal. If you missed the chance to get down there you can call Radio Port Douglas on 4099 4083 to donate some much needed funds.

As Southern tourist generate around 50% of our tourism industry it is great to see the Port Douglas community supporting them in their time of need.

Saturday 7 February

Farmers angry over lack of coverage about devastating flooding in their regions

Below are e-mails that were sent in:

These photos are disturbing, unfortunately they are real.  Too often we forget about the struggles the men on the land face every day of their lives, and yet even in a time where they are experiencing such devestation – none of these sorts of images make it to the TV or newspapers, let alone does the government step in and help out or even start a flood relief fund for these people!  Like the heartfelt letter from a farmer below points out, we send BILLIONS of dollars over seas to help, but ignore the farmers struggling in our own back yards!  Do your part, without farmers – we have nothing!


Dear Bob,

 

The Gulf is a disaster zone, yet nobody seems to know or wants to know about it.

From all local reports this is the longest, largest and most severe flooding this region has endured in living memory.

It is not something we could have ever planned for or insured ourselves against.  Approximately 100 000 acres of Cowan Downs has been subjected to prolonged and extreme flood waters resulting in unknown stock and infastructure losses.  We have begun our own relief effort hiring a jet ranger helicopter to drop fodder to stranded and starving stock, no government assistance was offered.

We keep seeing the media reports of flooding, emergency responses and concern over our coastal regions but the same attention and protocols apparently do not apply to the Gulf.

It was reported to me yesterday that last year during the Central Qld floods helicopter operators were paid by the Government to conduct fodder drops and to generally help out the flood affected producers in that area.  The Gulf flood makes these floods seem minor in scale and longevity, yet we have had no government intervention or even any acknowledgement of the extent of this disaster.

We as long term primary producers need help.  We wern't gambling our money or taking unnecessary business risks, we have just been dealt un unfair card by mother nature.  As well as the stock losses (only some of which can be seen in the attached photos), it will be a significant expense to restore damaged infastructure to bring the property back to being operational.  And now in the meantime we have to pay the day to day costs of the business, continue to employ our staff and service a loan.

We collect and remit to the government, on time, substantial taxes, and are left wondering why we are neglected when the Federal Government is spending our tax payer dollars on natural disaster relief in FIJI !! ?

Thursday 5 February

Port Douglas and Daintree still open for tourists

With a low in the Coral Sea near Cairns, there is a possibly of a small cyclone forming. This could happen as earlier as Friday, but as all locals and tourism industry insiders know, the weather at this time of year can consist of the most glorious morning and then have a very wet afternoon.

Former Cyclone Ellie is now in the southeast Gulf of Carpentaria and could re-form. Geoff Doueall a forecaster with BOM, said on News.com.au that Ellie was a more intense system than the small low off Cairns.

"The lows are very unorganised at the moment," he said. "We're saying there's only a small chance of something forming until Friday when it becomes a moderate chance that a cyclone will develop."

If the cyclones form, he said they would more than likely only be category 1.

"Ironically, the low off Cairns has dragged some of the rain out to sea so it's actually alleviating things," Mr Doueall said.

The rain that caused all the flash flooding has eased along the north Queensland coast although heavy falls are expected to continue between Bowen and Townsville.

Although 60% of Queensland is flood, Port Douglas has had some heavy rain over the last week, but not enough to cause any major flooding.

All tour operators, at this stage are running as normal for the wet season.

Monday 2 February

Oak Beach lashed by wind and rain

Saturday an Sunday, Oak Beach 10 minutes south of Port Douglas got lashed by wind and rain causing many tress to come down.

One resident reported that a 40 meter tree fall across the Captain Cook Hwy at about 4pm on Saturday. 15 motorists traveling to and from Cairns, had to stop and remove the tree from the road before it caused an accident.

5.30am Sunday saw palm trees nearly touching the ground with the amount of wind sucking around the Oak Beach valley. This caused another tree to fall on the Highway at Pebble Beach. This was cleared by 10.30am.

The same area also produced a number of small mudslides.

With more wind and rain over the coming days, Main Roads has urged all motorists to be careful on the North Queensland roads.

Sunday 1 February

February brings the regions first Cyclone of 2009

At 6:00 am AEST Tropical Cyclone Ellie, Category 1 was estimated to be
165 kilometres east of Cairns and 205 kilometres northeast of Cardwell and
moving slowly southwest towards the coast.

TROPICAL CYCLONE ELLIE, CATEGORY 1, with gusts up to 100 km/h may be close to the coast by Monday morning.

STRONG GALES may develop on the coast during this afternoon between Cairns and Ayr.

Higher than normal tides are expected, but the sea level should not exceed the highest tide of the year. Large waves are likely along the beachfront.

Flooding is likely in the warning area due to heavy rain. 

Details of Tropical Cyclone Ellie at 3:00 am AEST:
.Centre located near...... 17.2 degrees South 147.3 degrees East
.Location accuracy........ within 55 kilometres
.Recent movement.......... southwest at 9 kilometres per hour
.Wind gusts near centre... 100 kilometres per hour
.Severity category........ 1
.Central pressure......... 990 hectoPascals

People between Cairns and Ayr should take precautions and listen to the next advice at 10 am. If you are unsure of precautions to be taken information is available from your local government or local SES.   

The next advice will be issued by 10:00 am AEST Sunday 01 February.

This warning is also available through TV and Radio Broadcasts; the Bureau's website at www.bom.gov.au or call 1300 659 212.  The Bureau and the State Emergency Service would appreciate this warning being broadcast regularly.

Saturday 31 January

Mai Tai Resort takes out Trip Advisors 'Best Bargain'

World renowned website Trip Advisor has released its Travelers' Choice Awards where one of the Douglas' prize properties Mai Tai Resort takes out Best Bargain for the giant region of the South Pacific.

Other Best Bargain results:

    *
      Europe - Hotel Vecchio Asilo, San Gimignano, Italy
    *
      Asia - Oriental Kwai Resort, Kanchanaburi, Thailand
    *
      South Pacific - Mai Tai Resort, Port Douglas, Australia
    *
      Caribbean and Mexico -- Posada Luna del Sur - Tulum, Mexico
    *
      Central and South America - West Bay Lodge, West Bay, Honduras
    *
      Africa - Riad Zolah, Marrakech, Morocco
    *
      Canada - Elizabeth Lake Lodge, Cranbrook, British Columbia
    *
      India - Jas Vilas, Jaipur, India

Wednesday 28 January

Continental Airlines plans additional flights

CEO of Tourism Tropical North Queensland Rob Gaison has said "TTNQ welcomes Wednesday's announcement of additional flights into Cairns from Guam by Continental Airlines".

Continental Airlines have said from March they increase flights on Wednesday and Saturday to co-inside with the Thursday and Sunday flights.

"We would like to thank the Australian and Queensland Government and the Cairns Airport as this will bring around 10,000 additional seats to into Cairns."

"The US Defence Department is relocating its military base from Japan to Guam over the next 5 years, which will increase the population by around 25,000" Mr Giason said.

Wednesday 28 January

Port smashed in first loss

Mission Beach made the long drive up to Port Douglas look very easy when they stepped on to Port Douglas Sporting Complex on Saturday 27 January in the Semi Final of the Cairns Cricket Association One Day Competition looking fresh and ready to play.

Port Douglas won the toss and batted first with the thought of a long drive and having the runs on the board, to help get a leg up on Mission Beach. This proved not the best decision as Mission Beach's opening bowlers had their line and length from the very first ball.

Court House Hotel Mudcrabs lost early wickets due to some good bowling and bad shot decisions. Most of the top order had good intensions and good starts to the innings, but let their wicket go without a fight.

The first wicket to fall at one for 12 was when King again had an inside edge onto the stumps and was bowled for 11. Taylor, Arnell, McConnell and Thwaite all came and went with out too much trouble for the scores leaving a lot of hard work for talenders to try and make the Port Douglas total respectable.

Unfortunately, for the talenders they worked very hard to help the top order but only managed to get the total to 62 with Sammy 'Hollywood' Evans smashing two fours in a row before being bowled on nine.

Port Douglas's bowling in the One Day Series has again, like last season, been a bit wide with over 10 extras each game. The bowling on to the bat has been very good with lots of dot balls, but there are always one or two balls an over that stray to wide or a bit short letting the pressure ease.

Mission Beach finished at 4 for 63, winning the game by 6 wickets.

Mission Beach then went on to the Grand Final against United on Monday 26 January and won by one wicket at Griffiths Park in Cairns

Scorecard

Tuesday 27 January - sent in by Andrea Gibson

Proud parents, proud region

Well what a proud day it was on Australia day for parents and friends to see the 3 boys Sam Gibson, Matthew Werner and Alex White awarded for their courage last August 17 for their rescue of their mate Reece Nesbit from Devils Thumb.

Parents of the boys were very honoured to be invited to the Cairns Regional Council Australia Day Awards at the Cairns Civic Theatre. The boys Parents thanked Julia Lieu, who originally pushed for the Australia Day Council to include a new category - The Youth Courage Award, whose first recipients were the three boys for their amazing recovery of their mate.

Each boy received a certificate and commemorative coin to recognise them of their courage at such a terrifying moment in their life. They exhibited the examples of what makes a great Australian, courage in the time of adversity and mateship!!

The parents again wanted to thank Division 10 Councillor Julia Lieu, The Australia day council, the emergency services and everyone involved in the rescue.

Sent in by Pam Willis Burden

Also awarded at the Cairns Regional Council Australia Day Awards was Douglas Shire Historical Society’s archivist and founding President, Noel Weare. He was awarded the 'Volunteer of the Year' award.

A big congratulations to all of our nominated and selected award winners.

Tuesday 27 January

Port Police happy on Australia Day

A Port Douglas Police spokesperson said that, although there were 3 incidents of drink driving, most Australia Day Weekend revelers were well behaved.

With one drink driver on the Friday, Saturday and Monday nights the police still want to get the message across that, this is still three to many risking other roads users safety. The record alcohol limits on each offender was over .100 with the highest being .145, nearly 3 times the legal limit.

In other incidents, the Police have asked that with the wet weather season here please slow down and be more careful on the roads as there have been several traffic accidents caused by the wet roads in the last week.

Port Douglas Police have also asked that tourist and locals please lock up your apartments, as there was another Break & Enter over the weekend. The police spokesperson said that it is not the criminals breaking in, it is criminals taking advantage of unlocked doors and windows.

Tuesday 27 January

CRC gives latest news for the Douglas Region

These temporary works will offer better protection for private properties in Dulku Close this wet season for flooding that has taken place this wet and last years wet season.

Council work crews have begun maintenance work on the Noah Creek Bridge, Cape Tribulation Road, north of Thornton Beach. These nesassary works should becomplete by 30 January 2009, weather permitting. You can expect delays of an hour so all motorists should factor in delay times into their trip and drive carefully through the work site. For further information contact Council on 4099 9444 or 1800 070 444.


Hydromulching was completed on Murphy St Port Douglas prior to Christmas but heavy rain has caused some erosion. Regular maintenance is being carried out and minor drainage work will be completed when the weather permits.


The large mango tree east of the main walkway in Anzac Park is suffering extensive decay, posing a safety risk to the large numbers of shoppers that gather for the weekly markets. An independent arborist has reported that there is no known way to improve the tree's health or salvage it. The tree will be removed and replaced this week. Council has also warned that the noise and dust created by cutting down and chipping the mango tree may cause temporary inconvenience to nearby businesses.


Council would also like to invite the region's young to get involved with local government through its new Youth Advisory Group (YAG). Comprising 20 members aged between 12 and 25 years, YAG will provide input into Council projects such as Youth Week, Battle of the Bands, skate and volleyball competitions.

Nominations will close 13 February, with candidate interviews to be held on 23 February. For more information or an application package, contact Council's Youth Development Officer Tanya Brooks-Cooper on 4044 3016 or 1800 070 444 (toll free), or email t.brooks@cairns.qld.gov.au.

Thursday 22 January

Port Douglas Muddies in semi's for one day series

The Court House Hotel Port Douglas Mudcrabs Cricket Club finished top place for Pool A and Pool B for the One Day Series in the Cairns Cricket Association Competition which has been played over the last three weeks.

The Muddies have now gained the advantage of playing the Semi Final on home soil against Mission Beach on Saturday. Mission Beach finished second in the Pool A side of the competition.

The other Semi Final is being played between Innisfail and Atherton in Innisfail.

If Port win on Saturday they move into the Grand Final on Australia Day at Griffith's Park No.2 against the winner of the match between Innisfail and Atherton.

Port Douglas and Mission Beach play at Port Douglas Sporting Complex at 10am on Saturday 24 January.

Court House Hotel Port Douglas Mudcrabs squad from:

Dale Arnell, Tony Gooding (VC), Sam Evans, Ben Jenkins, Nathan King, Dave Marks, Josh McConnell (capt), Daryl Mison, Mat Scheisser, Keith Taylor, Ryan Thwaite, Neil Weavers

Tuesday 20 January

The Carnivale continues



Photo caption:  Port Douglas Carnivale will go ahead in May 2009, along with all its popular events such as Quicksilver’s Food, Wine & A Taste of Port.  Photo Credit:  Alison George

Port Douglas, 16 January 2009…  The popular celebration of life in the tropics, Port Douglas Carnivale, will definitely proceed this year with The Port Douglas Chamber of Commerce announcing they are managing this year’s 10 day festival from May 22 to May 31st.

Late last year, the organising contract in place with Events Cairns was voided by mutual arrangement when the event management company advised it could not meet its obligations under the agreement.  

Chamber president Ken Dobbs said a sub-committee had been formed and they would take a hands on role to work with locally sourced managers for specific events such as the street parade and the family beach day held on Four Mile Beach.


“All the most popular events of Carnivale will be in the 2009 program including the Macrossan Street Parade, the Seafood Extravaganza, Gourmet Gladiators, Longest Lunch and Quicksilver’s Food, Wine & A Taste of Port,” said Mr Dobbs.

Events NQ, who produce the food and wine festival and the longest lunch each year, have confirmed they are again on board for 2009.   

“We are delighted to announce we have a new name sponsor for the luncheon and this year’s event will be the Sheraton Mirage Longest Lunch,” said Donna Anderson of Events NQ.   “Last year, we moved the location of the lunch to the Mirage Country Club and this proved a huge success so it will again take place beside the lake across one long, winding table.”

The Quicksilver Group are confirmed as naming sponsor for the Quicksilver Food, Wine & A Taste of Port event which will be held this year on Saturday 30th May.

The Carnivale program will carry many other events including a new, yet to be announced event planned for the first weekend of the festival, partially supported financially from the cash grant Carnivale organisers expect to receive from Queensland Events.  However, Mr Dobbs said this event and others still required sponsorship to fulfil budget requirements.

“We are currently seeking major and minor event sponsors, including a name sponsor for Carnivale 09, and we hope to be able to make an announcement on this very soon,” said Mr Dobbs.

For further information on sponsorship and events for Carnivale 09, Tel:   40153923

Tuesday 20 January

Pre Travel Visitors on the hunt for Port Douglas information

tourismportdouglas.com.au reports an increase in Pre Travel Visitor traffic to the site. Director Josh McConnell confirmed a return to over 7,000 Absolute Unique Visitors thus far for January.

Figures reduced to about 5,000 for December as we expected with many people actually on holidays.  We recorded over 8,000 unique visitors in August and September planning for the Christmas break said Mr McConnell

When asked when is the most popular time for Pre Travel Research Mr McConnell says "its a bit hard to get a totally accurate indication of when exactly the most PTV's will visit the site as the website is becoming far more accessible with higher Google rankings, but it appears between now and April and August to September at this stage"

The site is producing reports for its Website Partners to best prepare them for when the pre travel direct booking market is looking.

Tuesday 20 January

Health of the Great Barrier Reef - You are invited to help

The ARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies has reported through Powerboat-World.com that they want tourists, holidaymakers, divers and tour operators to become ‘citizen scientists’ and help with a major health check-up for Australia’s Great Barrier Reef.

There have been some Coral diseases along the reef in recent years, and researchers say that they may be triggered by human disturbances and climate changes.

Now the ARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies (CoECRS) and the Coral Reef Targeted Research & Capacity Building for Management (CRTR) have combined to produce a guide to coral health and diseases for use both by scientists and by lay people with an interest in the reef and its future.

If you work on or with the Great Barrier Reef, you can purchase the waterproof Coral Disease Cards at a cost of $24.20 a set from the University of Queensland online shop. This way you can start to help with preventing any new diseases starting.

The CRTR has made up an advice booklet consisting of 24 waterproof pages as a guide to the coral reef diseases and their symptoms, for easy use underwater. This also comes with 120 pages on how to assess the problems of the reef.

'Extensive underwater surveys by researchers have given us a fair idea where the main outbreaks of disease are along 1500 kms of the GBR – but a handful of scientists can only cover so much ground,' explains CoECRS coral disease authority Dr Bette Willis.

'Most people who dive the Reef care deeply about what happens to the corals, and we’re hoping that our ‘citizen scientists’ will help supplement our knowledge of what is going on by reporting any outbreaks which they happen to see – as there are tens of thousands of visitors who, potentially, can cover hundreds of different sites.'

CRTR Program executive officer Melanie King said 'People can download a sample from the website prior to purchasing – but the waterproof handbook is designed to refer to underwater,'.

'We will be most appreciative of well-informed reports from the public of coral disease outbreaks, based on the information provided in the guide.'

If you are a frequent visitor to the reef, and a member of the public, and want to log a report on a possible coral disease sighting, you can do so in the interim by logging onto GBRMPA’s Bleachwatch site.

Click below websites for more info:

www.gefcoral.org

www.gbrmpa.gov.au

Tuesday 20 January   12.00pm

Latest road conditions for Douglas region

The Captain Cook Hwy from Cairns to Port Douglas is open but with a land slip at Buchans Point and alot of water running across the road at Pebbly Beach

The Mossman to Mt Molloy Rex Range Road is closed at Bushy Creek Julatten, due to river rising and flooding the road. Road slips can also occur on the Rex range due to rain.

The Cape Tribulation Rd at the Bloomfield Causeway in Wujal Wujal is closed to all vehicles due to flooding of the Bloomfield River. An alternative route is via Cooktown.

Monday January 19

Lucky escape for Lady and her passenger

Police have confirmed the driver and passenger heading southbound before the Mowbray Bridge this morning have suffered only minor injuries after careering off the Captain Cook Highway into a field. The car is likely to be a right off said Port Douglas police and was carried away from the scene.

The accident is the second this week and adds to an overall Queensland post holiday count far exceeding the accidents occuring over the Christmas period.

Police urge drivers to remain vigilant at all times on the roads over the wet season.

Friday 16 January

Captain Cook Highway closed - single car accident

The Captain Cook Highway is now open but earlier a single vehicle traffic incident occurred on the Captain Cook Highway Wangetti Beach near the Hartleys Creek Zoo turn off at about 11.30am today. 

A man (unknown age or address) was extricated from the vehicle and transported to Cairns Base Hospital by emergency helicopter with suspected back injuries. Police are still at the scene.

More details not available until they head back to the station. Smithfield police are currently investigating.

Friday 16 January

Mayor and CRC help correct sensationlised national media disaster reporting of the Far North

Mayor Val Shier has come to the aid of concerned Local Tourism Operators in helping reduce the national media outlets sensationalising of recent Far North Queensland's rain and flooding dramas.

National media outlets such as Channel 7's Sunrise show and Channel 9's Today show ealier this week reported significant long term destruction and damage to the Far North with regard to the heavy rain we received.

It all started with a letter written by local Tourism Operator and community volunteer Lisa- Jean Brough to local media outlets including the Mayor Val Shier highlighting another damning report by the south with regard to the north.  After some initial coments by the Mayor with regard to not being able to control the Nations Media programs finally the CRC has stood up and taken control of the loose reporting by the influential morning shows.

"Reports sensationalising events like this are devastating to our economy" said Mission Beach Operator Lisa - Jean Brough. 

Locals are reporting receiving phone calls from loved ones in the south worried about the safety of their northern family members.  It was only a couple of years ago that the southern media outlets ramped up reports of the crossing of a cyclone in North Queensland showing footage of Darwins Cyclone Tracy resulting in thousands of distressed phone calls and again considerable damage to the Tourism industry.

The North like any high demand destination needs a Critical Media Management Plan for distributing correct information when the National or World media outlets (reporting of Cyclone Larry in North America was that Queensland had been destroyed) swing off their sensational stories.

When Sunrise interviewers crossed back to the Far North yesterday for more disaster reports, they were met by CRC Disaster Management boss Ross McKin who very quickly corrected the Sunrise hosts that the continuing disaster reports were in fact not true with Cairns and the Far North enjoying  many perfect sunny weather days since the day of heavy rain. 

"The weather came and the weather went" said Ross.

Sunrise presenters didn't know where to go with the sharpness of Mr Ross' comments expecting the cross to reveal more disaster and despair for this region but instead getting, why it is a great time to visit Cairns and the Far North during this period.

It appears Mayor Val Shier has answered the call of concerned operators with diligence.

Wednesday 14 January

Accommodation managers pleased with post Christmas visitation

Port Douglas accommodation managers are this week looking to take a break after a very busy festive season.

Many businesses have recorded increases in turnover compared to previous years in the same period.

This was a boost for local business owners in light of the well reported potential economic downturn.

Comment on this article

Monday 12 January

Cyclone Charlotte crosses Queensland coast

EMERGENCY crews have begun sandbagging homes as Tropical Cyclone Charlotte moves across far north Queensland.

The Bureau of Meteorology said Charlotte made land at about 4am (AEST) near the mouth of the Gilbert River, 305km north-west of Georgetown.

The category one cyclone, Queensland's first of the season, is expected to continue moving east-southeast over land while weakening.

Heavy rain, flooding

Significant rainfall has already been recorded, with 168mm falling at Babinda, 132mm at Mt Sophia and 117mm at Normanton between 9am (AEST) on Sunday and 5am on Monday.

Monday 12 January

Mud slide on Captain Cook Hwy

         Photo sent in via SMS by local John S

A mud slide on Captain Cook Hwy at Pebbly Beach, between Oak Beach and Craiglie slowed traffic to a stand still early this morning.

Road crews were called in after 401mm of rain fell between 12 and 9am today, to clean up mud and trees after the bank came away and spewed on to the Highway.

The record amount of rain was on the 12 of January 1981 when 470mm fell.

Traffic was halted for about 1 hour while crews cleaned the road with truck and backhoe. Both lanes of traffic are now open, but Main Roads are urging people to take notice on the roads with the rain looking like it will be here for the rest of the week.

Friday 9 January

Locals call for more of the 'old school' Carnivale feel

Locals are voicing their opinion of Carnivale. The Gazette has published a letter to their editor asking for more of the old village feel back in Carnivale.

From all reports the Port Douglas Chamber of Commerce is listening to local appeals and will be revisiting many of the last 10 years of Carnivale to pick out what is the essence of Carnivale.

Keep the comments coming in.

What do you want out of Carnivale?     reader comments

Tuesday 6 January 

Chamber of Commerce forms Carnivale Management Plan

With the withdrawal of the selected Port Douglas Carnivale Co-ordinator Event Cairns, Carnivale proprietor, the Port Douglas Chamber of Commerce has been forced to co-ordinate the Carnivale proceedings it's self.

Ken Dobbs, of the Chamber confirmed today that the Chamber has employed a Marketing and Media professional to begin servicing National and International requests for Carnivale dates and events. Carnivale will be held from Friday 22 May through to Sunday 31 May.

Carnivale previously co-ordinated by Event Company, Managing Australian Destinations will still operate most of the same events locals will expect from last year. Although sponsors for some Carnivale events may be harder to find with the current economic climate.

Major events such as The Macrossan Street Parade and The 4 Mile Beach Day and another Major Event will all be on the cards for the first weekend of Carnivale 2009, with Food, Wine and Taste of Port and the Seafood Extravaganza to be held on the second weekend.

More details will be made available via the Port Douglas & Mossman Gazette later this week.

Tuesday 6 January

Bale does not impress guest

The Cairns Post has today reported that a guest at Port Douglas' newest 6 star Peppers Bale Resort was well unimpressed.

Mr Brummitt said that on their arrival their "honeymoon suit" was not cleaned, the spa did not work, the pool was dirty and the staff did not seem to care.

Mr Brummitt has contacted Office of Fair Trading and Peppers Resorts over state of his room and the attitude of staff. He also mentioned that if he were not reimbursed his money, he would seek legal advice.

GM of Bale Resort Mr Oliver said the complaints had been taken very seriously. “We get very few complaints, and I am happy to speak with Mr Brummitt about the situation".

Sunday 4 January

Tourism industry needs fresh strategies to find new incentives

The Sunday Mail reports the Tourism Industry Council's CEO Daniel Gschwind confirming a tough year for the States Tourism Industry.

"Operators will have to double their efforts to attract visitors to their regions if they want to compete" he said

It appears the State Government has allocated all it will with its contribution topping $52 million.

This report confirms the need for individual regions to compete as individual destinations and expose to holidaymakers their distinguishing assets of leisure.

The Council offered a warning to the Tourism Industry that it will need to find. fresh incentives for visitors

Sunday 4 January

Boy lucky to survive Josephine Falls drama

The popular Douglas resident waterhole escape was host to an over night rescue.

A 12 year boy was washed downstream from the visitor area by heavy water surges late yesterday afternoon, its reported.

The boy managed to swim to a rock where he stayed for 3 hours until rescued by emergency services.

This marks yet another fresh waterhole incident surfacing the argument for better warnings and regulations by Government bodies to ensure our visitors and locals alike are not exposed to these dangers when visiting these special areas.

Saturday 3 January

Is Paris Hilton in Port Douglas?

Local's are dashing into town to get a glimpe of hotel heiress Paris Hilton after romours of another post Sydney News Years Eve, Port Douglas visit.

Last year Paris Hilton was confirmed holidaying in the region after appearing at a number of high profile Sydney New Years Eve parties.

Let us know if you see Paris Hilton

Friday 2 January

Australia's capital cities put on shows to remember

Australia's leading cities Sydney and Melbourne have recorded their best fireworks exhibitions ever.

Sydney habour attracting record numbers for their now world renowned fireworks displays.

Sydney

Melbourne

Thursday 1 January

Port Douglas fireworks go off under threat of thunder storms

Fireworks experts Xpolsive Arts performed 2 spectacular fireworks displays last night at 8pm and 12 midnight as planned.

With the threat of local rolling thunderstorms organisers the Port Douglas Chamber of Commerce and the pyrotechics nervously watched the sky as the first of the two shows was to occur.

We were very lucky said Chamber spokesperson Sam Cullen, the skies just opened up 10 minutes to 8 pm the first show.  Prior this Port Douglas experienced one of its heavliest downpours this season making things look very shaky for the earlier display.

The night is always such a success says the Chamber of Commerce who will be looking to sure up next years contributors by August next year with an exciting format in store that is sweeping the North.

Businesses will benefit from the exposure and goodwill that contributing to this event brings, says the Chamber.

Contact the Chamber of Commerce about conributing to 2009 NYE fireworks

Thursday 1 January

Serious New Year assault on bus

A man has been charged with 'grevious bodily harm' after an assault on a bus on route out of Port Douglas.

The man has allegedly assaulted another passenger.

No official Police Reports have been released as yet.

Thursday 1 January

Liquor licencing legislation now mandatory

Douglas businesses should now be aware that new legislation is officially mandatory for a range of liquor reforms in Queensland.

New employees have 30 days to undertake QLD LLD approved RSA training and the Responsible Management of Licensed Venues (RMLV) is also now mandatory. more . .

Wednesday 31 December - updated 3pm

Port Douglas New Years Eve Fireworks still on

Organisers of this years fireworks say that the 2 shows are still set to operate at their times of 8pm and 12MN.

We are leaving it in the hands of the professionals said Sam Cullen of the Port Douglas Chamber of Commerce. If they can they will.

The fireworks will be delayed if required until 30-60 mins after their original times to give the weather time to ease.

Cairns meteorology have indicated that the weather is likely to be scattered squalls giving firework specialists Xplosive Arts time to shoot the 10 minute shows.

 Monday 29 December

More than the smell of Pizza in Port Douglas

      Locals and tourists check out the scene at Porto’s' Pizza on Saturday

Porto's Pizzeria on Macrossan Street Port Douglas caught on fire at 11.30am on Saturday the 27 December. At around 12.20pm officers were called to attend. People from shops, restaurants and pubs surrounded the pizza shop as smoke came billowing out of the roof vents.

EJ's Takeaway and Port Douglas Information Centre remain closed today, as they have also been damaged from smoke and fire.

From early reports, it looks like the fire was started by electrical faults near an air-conditioning unit.

There was no one on the premises at the time of the fire and there were no injuries.

                              Porto's Pizza still closed up on Monday

Wednesday 24 December

Santa pulls into Meridien Marina

A real family affair was had Tuesday when Meridien Marina's GM Jason Roles invited Santa Claus to the Marina.

Santa was in fine form as he joked and posed with the kids of the Douglas.

The Parasie Birdman was also on had to take photographs for parents of their little ones.

Mr Roles confirmed Santa was a success and will be doing it again next year.

Residents welcomed this news as they too thought the day was a great addition to the Marina and the overall Douglas Christmas Spirit.

Wednesday 24 December

Port Douglas Cubby puts on 'Super Cute' Concert

Parents of Port Douglas Cubby students came in droves to watch their kids perform an number of Christmas and stage classics.

Sue from Cubby said that the kids had been rehearsing the concert since June. The show was short and sweet and their wasn't an unimpressed patron in the audience.

Next year it looks like these kids may have to join the ranks in the Sunset in the Park Concert with the quality of the performance.

Friday December 19

Lagoon style pool included in Waterfront plan

Artist impression: The plan showing Rex Smeal Park, is to be part of a master plan for the Port Douglas waterfront on Dickson Inlet.

Cairns Regional Council has released documents that include the above plan for the Port Douglas Waterfront.

Councilor Julia Leu has indicated that although the pool is a welcomed investment, it is paramount that the development is not tacky.

Wednesday 17 December

Port Douglas Chamber of Commerce confirms 2 fireworks shows for News Years Eve

Yesterday President Ken Dobbs confirmed that 2 fireworks shows would be on the cards again this year even though finding sponsors was a little difficult.

Special contributions by Cairns Regional Council, The Court House Hotel and Hibiscus Resort & Spa have enabled the traditional annual event to consist of the 2 shows - 8pm & 12 midnight.

Without the additional contributions Port Douglas like Palm Cove and Cairns would be forced to feature only one show. Debate as to which fireworks time slot should be featured opened a can of worms says the Chamber.

Many businesses who contributed to the event requested the fireworks be held at the 8pm while many other contributors requested the traditional 12 midnight time slot.

Another major beneficiary of the 8 pm fireworks is the local families who attend in large numbers. With many businesses and traditional 12 midnight fireworks supporters, families will need to voice their wants to local council to ensure their interests are being looked after.

Wednesday 10 December

Mossman Christmas Street Party is on again

The Mossman Christmas Street Party is up and running again on the 19 December 2008. This year’s party is looking as if it’s going to be a great event for everyone in the community to enjoy.

The Christmas Market Stalls are an important aspect of the party. Local businesses and not-for-profit organisations in the local area are participate.  We are expecting over 1000 members of our community to attend so this is a great opportunity to feature your service or organisation.

The street will be closed at 5.30pm with the Christmas Street Party starting at 6pm. Entertainment will be provided by Choreography by Nelle and Ward Benedict Productions from 6.30pm until 9pm.

There will also be face painting and children’s activities - Santa will arrive at 8pm. Local hotels are providing a range of entertainment after 9pm. . .

Tuesday 9 December

Port Douglas hosts two Passenger Liners with great success

Sunday marked a special day in the history of Port Douglas' Cruise Liner participation with two ships mooring off Island Point and ferrying their passengers into Meridien Marina.

Meridien's GM Jason Roles was very happy with the success of the day with Meridien Marina tenants seeing thousands of customers pour through the iconic shopping precinct.

Over 3,500 passengers disembarked the two ships with the entire 2,200 passengers coming off the Diamond Princess, holding mostly Australian passengers.

Tour Operators, Meridien Marina, The Sunday Markets, Court House Hotel & Central Hotel were the biggest beneficiaries with some four mile beach end Macrossan Street retail stores blaming the heat for lack of street traffic down that end.

Councilor Julia Leu visited Rhapsody of the Seas as the regions dignitary presenting the Ships Captain with a plaque from the region.

Port Douglas will be addressing a Cruise Liner Initiative early in the year driven by Meridien Marinas in partnership with tourismportdouglas.com.au, The Chamber of Commerce and ex GM of Marina Mirage Kerrie Jamieson.

Tuesday 9 December

Travel League, tourismportdouglas.com.au & Chamber of Commerce celebrate at Salsa for Christmas

Themed as Christmas characters and colours, the guests turned out in everything from a Christmas present (best female dressed Kirsten Taylor) & Joseph, Mary and Jesus (best couple Craig & Tess Walker) to a Christmas tree itself (best group - Quicksilver Helicopters)

Around 130 local businesses and their staff attended on Salsa for the annual Christmas party with all reports being the night was the best so far, networking business from all over the Port Douglas region.

Santa Claus, flanked by his own helpers, arrived upon a horse and carriage this year compliments of D and her business Andalusian Horse & Carriage who then took willing Christmas Party guests on a quick trip around the block.

The Chamber of Commerce debriefed yesterday saying the event was a great success from their perspective flagging interest already for next year to be the same.

Other prize winners included Toni McNamara (Perrin Clarke framed Photograph) Jan & Norm Thompson (Salsa voucher) Anne Weavers (Davvyd Brown Painting) Neil Weavers (2 day Jeep Hire - Paradise Wheels for Rent)

25 November

Joe Hutchinson wears the Oakleys at Mirage's Inaugural Golf Championship

The hot humid weather did not deter the small but enthusiastic crowd of golfers at the inaugural mirage monthly medal sponsored by Oakley last Thursday.  

Joe Hutchinson was delighted with his Oakley sunglasses as the winner of the first competition with Wayne Baxter nearest the pin on the 8th and Julian Harrold nearest the pin on the 18th. Joe Hutchinson, Wayne Baxter and Gunter Schmidtke go forward for the six monthly prize.

After the golf the competitors enjoyed traditional mirage hospitality in the sprig bar, rounding off a wonderful afternoon. A special mention must go out to Leslie Hutchinson the only lady to enter the comp, for keeping all the guys in control and on their best behavior.

Nominations are already coming in for the next medal on the 18th December and this month’s golfers are already planning their strategy for the next game.

Tuesday 16 June

Douglas win at home against Souths

After a very tough opening half, the game between Douglas United Football Club and Cairns Souths Football was standing very even at half time after a great performance from both teams.

To Douglas's credit they kept on fighting throughout the hard physical game created by the great defence of Souths who never let up.

Douglas United managed to send on passed the keeper with for 1 to 0 win.

The next game for the Douglas Dragons is on the 19 June at Dimbula at 8pm.

Tuesday 16 June

Junior Sharks Rugby League Weekend Round Up

The Under 7’s had a great game of football this week against Edmonton Lightning at Mann Street. All of the boys are continually improving each week and should be great little footballers by the end of the season. Keep up the great work boys. This weeks Man of the Match awards went to Lafe Hatfield and Heath Barry for their great team work.

The Under 8’s took on Central Scorpions and Edmonton.
The first games against Central Scorpions ended up with a loss to the Sharkies but all of the boys played fantastically and did the team proud. Payton and Odie came along and really got involved in the game which was great to see. Payton Adams and Josh Cranswick scored tries and Payton kicked a goal. The final score didn’t do the boys justice 24-10. For his great effort in attack and defense Man of the Match went to Lamar Enoch.

In the second game against Edmonton the boys were geared up for the match of the season. The boys played absolutely fantastically and showed Edmonton that Mossman boys can play footy. With a score of 32 to 4, it was a great match. Try scorers were the legendary Tom Walker with 4, brilliant runner Scotty Bowen with 3, and never ending worker Zecklyn Ryan with 1. All of the boys tackled and ran the ball all over the paddock. Lachlan Buzzer came into his own with his great tackle count and fantastic run ups and earned his man of the match award. Well done Lachlan.

The U9’s took on the Edmonton Storm and despite their best efforts they went down 4-18. Riley Bell pushed through Storm’s defence right on the try line to score the Sharks only try of the game. Man of the Match went to Callum Mather for great defence, Melakai Williams’ tackling earned him the Most Improved Player and the Coaches Award went to Zachary Osborne for his never tiring defence.

U10 Sharks played some exceptional footy on the weekend against Edmonton and Central's dominating both games with a 42-0 win in their first game,and then 42-0 again in their second game.With hard running forwards, and quick passing of the ball through the halves out to the backs,saw some great tries being scored. Defense levels were solid which showed in the scoreline.Try scorers were Lachlan 7,Angus 3,Joe 2,Jake 1,Kyle 1,Tyrell 1,Tully 1.Man of the Match awards went to Harry Goodman and Damien Fischer.

In the U11's game it was a very classy display by the Sharks which saw them win by 44-4 against a very good team on their home turf. Attitude to training, commitment to each other and improvement in some of the new players to the team was a major reason for the win. Coach again reluctant to single out any one player but Jack Dickson was awarded Man of the Match for a true front rowers’ performance. Special mention to Tom Henley's ball handling skills from kick off in which he was constantly targeted and Levi William’s outstanding game in his first run on game of the year and also team welcomed back representative players, Quinn Cannon and Travis Gulliver who had a major impact off the bench.

The under 12's sharks had a strong performance again on the weekend against Central Scorpions winning 38-16. The boys ran in 8 tries. The forwards did some great off loads which led to tries and our back line was too strong in attack. Try scorers were Bacho 4, Louie 2, Curtis 1, and Matthew 1. Man of the match went to Bacho Salam and coach’s award goes to Connor Zealand and Hayden D'Addona.

The under 13's came up against a very committed Scorpions side on the weekend and although they had opportunities to grab the lead in the second half , were not able to get the points. Scorpions ran out winners 24-8. Man of the match and players' player went to Ben Pascoe.

Monday 25 May

Douglas win against bottom side

The Douglas United Football Club Went 1-0 down early in the game away from their home ground in Mossman, when the team failed to deal with a free kick.

Leichhardt scored from a rebound off the goalkeeper. To the Douglas Dragons credit they did not drop their heads and equalised 10 mins from the end of the first half. The Douglas Dragons should have gone into halftime break 2-1 up but for the heroics from Leichhardt goalkeeper who pulled off a string of outlandish saves at the end of the half, some even from point blank range.

The Second half saw Leichhardt threw everything at the Dragons, with great defending the momentum gradually turned and Dragons pummelled them towards the end of game, scoring the winning goal with 2 minutes remaining. The goal scorers for the Douglas Dragons were, Max Taylor and Ben Syrett.

The next game for the Dragons will be on the 29th May at home against Innisfail. Game starts at 8pm.

Monday 18 May

Reserves have their second win for 09

With an average age of around 35 to 40 playing in the reserves against City Cobras on the weekend, anyone can be excused for thinking they were watching a veterans game with first time AFL player Keith Taylor starting at the ripe old age of 48 starting in the centre.

Heff's chargers did a great job of staying in front throughout the first and second quarters. In the third quarter the Cobras came back with a bit of a fight but the Crocs pulled away early in the last and had a great win 64 to 44.

The seniors started off well, but still with out some major players showed that they lack a bit of depth. Delaney and Beetham again showed their class as they have all year but unfortunately did not have to much support.

The senior Crocs went down 89 to 63.

The Port Douglas Crocs have bye next week due to Port Douglas Carnivale 2009 celebrations.

Monday 11 May

Sharks win over Edmonton

Mitch Mahon the coach of the Mossman Sharks Rugby league club was very happy with the win against Edmonton over weekend when it is that close.

Finishing the game 32 to 28 shows great fighting spirit after Mossman were down 0 to 18 late in the first half.

The second half showed them fight back with some great team play gelling together and strong hard tackling.

Mossman Sharks will be very happy with their second win of the season with their new coach who arrived from Cronulla over the off season.

Coach Mahon said, "We won't beat the world but we are starting to string some good plays together and it is a really good start to build the club up for the future".

Monday 11 May

Crocs crushed by South's

The Port Douglas Croc's Seniors and Reserves have had another demoralizing loss in their match's over the weekend against South Cairns.

After the seniors great effort last week at home, they could not back it up this and were beaten 161 to 22.

The best players this week were Beetham, Harris, Liddell, B Lawlor, J Lawlor and the goal kicker week in week out Gareth Delaney.

The Reserves did not fair much better in their match, which from all reports they fielded a full team this week but could not match South's and lost 102 to 10.

Monday 27 April

The Under 18 Crocs off to a winning start

Not only did winning last years title make them the team to beat, but many of the young Crocs are already playing senior football on a regular basis.

Premiership winning players are awarded their jumpers by the club, many of which don’t come off for days! So after a grand final win the club has to find a new jumper sponsor.

This year Doug and Michelle Hall from Port Douglas Video stepped forward to offer their support. Junior Crocs President Matthew Hurley expressed his thanks saying, “It is great to see such willing support from the local community for our club. In these tough economic times we really appreciate the support Port Douglas Video has given the boys.”

Doug Hall said, “He was more than willing to offer financial support to a club that was so important to the community.” He went on to say that he would be more than happy to do it again next year if the boys can win it again!

Monday 27 April

Junior Crocs win 3 out of 4

The Port Douglas Junior Crocs played some big games on the weekend starting with the u18's playing the Cairns Cutters on Wednesday night at Cazalys Stadium.

What started out as a close encounter very quickly drifted away from the Cutters. With great players all over the ground, The Crocs were to strong an ran out big winners, 126 to 34.

The u16's also had an impressive win against Centrals on Friday night at Cazalys Stadium, one which they were looking for for some time. Coach Leon Baker said it was a great win with players all over the ground standing up and showing they can play some great footy. Crocs won 85 to 13

Port Douglas u14's played North Cairns at Watsons Oval on Sunday and despite a spirited effort from the team the Crocs had a disappointing loss. North Cairns won 105 to 6.

The u12's Crocs had a every good win against South Cairns, winning 59 to 16.

With the senior Crocs not doing so well it is great to see the junior chargers winning 3 out of 4 games over the weekend.

Next week u18's play Norths at Cazalys Stadium on Wednesday 29 April at 7.30pm. U16's play Pyramid Power at Cazalys Stadium on the 1 May at 7.15pm. U14's play South Cairns at Port Douglas Sporting Complex on Sunday 3 May at 1.30pm. The u12's play at Watson Oval at 11am on Sunday 3 May against South Cairns Reds.

Monday 20 April

Boham holds his own

Reports from my man at The GABBA on Friday, tell me that Jye Boham certainly held his own in his first match in the AFL Reserves for the Brisbane Lions against Northern Territory.

Boham, was named to start on the half forward line in the lead up game to the Lions and Collingwood game, and that he did.

Danny Handly was at the game and said that Jye held his own in the forward line for the first 3 quarters and when they moved him on the wing in the fourth quarter he carved up the ground and his opponent.

The Lions ended running away with the game and won 164 to 76.

It was said that the coach had his arm around Jye at the end of the game and said that he will be playing again next week, which normally does not happen to top up players.

Monday 20 April

Raiders leave Wanderers wondering

The Court House Port Douglas Raiders Rugby union club played the Wanderers on Saturday night in their first official game of the season in Cairns.

The Wanderers were the last team to beat the Raiders in round 2 last year when the Port Douglas Raiders went on to win the Grand Final in 2008.

This time however the Court House Raiders were far to good and ran out winners 45 to 10.

From the side lines it was a very impressive win. It will be hard for injured players, like club stalwart Shane Branch to come back into the side as the team at this stage looks very good.

Thursday 16 April

Port local playing for Brisbane Lions

It is a great feat for Jye Bohm to be playing in the Reserves Grade for the Brisbane Lions as he will be the youngest player ever to be invited to play for this team at the age of 16.

Bohm started his AFL career with the Junior Port Douglas Crocs where he was still playing up to the end of last season. He also played a number of games in the reserves and senior Crocs sides during last season and went very well.

He is now contracted to the Redlands Football Club in Brisbane this year and has been playing very well, and obviously turning some heads.

The Brisbane Lions are playing Collingwood at the GABBA before the main game on Friday 17 May being televised on Channel 10 from 7.30pm.

Monday 4 April

Sharks beaten in Tully

The Mossman Sharks Rugby League team traveled down to Tully for their game at the Tully Showgrounds on Saturday, and started the game very well.

With some hard contest to start the game, The Mossman Sharks battled away and was the first to put some points on the board giving Tully a nice scare early.

The Sharks went into the half time break well clear at 18 points to 0.

To Tully's credit they fought back extremely hard in the second half, creating many scoring chance's to get back into the game.

Tully ended up over coming The Sharks and went onto win 24 to 18 and not letting Mossman score in the second half.

With two losses in a row The Mossman Sharks will be looking for solid win in next weeks round.

Monday 4 April

Crocs fall at home

For new coach Shaun Valenta's first game at home with his new club, The Port Douglas Crocs was not one that he will remember with fond memories.

The Cairns Cobras came up form Cairns on a beautiful hot Saturday afternoon to take on the new look Crocs at The Port Douglas Sporting Club in front of a couple of hundred people in magical sunshine.

All looked good to start the game after the Reserves had a great game with some old timers Nicky G and Muffy filling up the side. Things were looking great when Muffy setup a new player in front of goal for Port's 3rd goal in a row in the first 10 minuets of the third quarter.

Unfortunately the senior side was not so lucky when they kicked off their game. The Cairns Cobras got off to a great start in the first quarter and were very hard to pull back there after.

With the Crocs players trying their best in the 30 plus heat, nothing could stop the Cobras from slithering ahead. Valenta said it was a very disappointing loss as the same problems and issues occurred in this game as they did in the Crocs 97 point loss in the first round. He also mentioned the accountability of his players is no where near were it should be.

The Cairns Cobras finished the game 22.17 (149) to Port Douglas Crocs 7.11(53).

After two losses in the first two rounds, Port will have to dig deep when they resume after this weekends Easter break.

Monday 30 March

Crocs go down to Trinity

The Port Douglas Crocs Senior side played Trinity Beach on Saturday down in Cairns in a very warm environment.

Heath Barnett from Centrals Trinity put on a display of goal kicking when he ended up with 10 goals for the game. Port Crocs player Garth Delaney manage 3 goals in return after some very close checking from Trinity defence.

The Crocs had some very straight kickers when they had a chance to have a shot on goal but could only manage 11 shot at goal for the game, compared to 34 to Trinity.

The Crocs went down 25.9 (159) to 9.2 (56). Best players for the Crocs where: Gareth Delany, Matthew Manns, Brad Cooper, Jordan Butterss, Luke Bloom, Sam Sandford.

The Port Douglas Crocs play their first home game for the season on the 4 April and would love the whole region down at the Port Douglas Sporting Complex from 1pm.

 Friday 27 March

Monthly medal at Sheraton Country Club

With another magic day out on the Sheraton Golf course for the March Monthly Medal, a close field of 28 competed in the event and enjoyed their day. 

Monday 23 March

Junior Crocs kick off season

Port Douglas Juniors Crocs kicked off their season in the Junior Cairns AFL competition on Sunday with teams from under 8's to under 16's playing.

The under 8's and 10's started off the day at Watson Oval and had a very strong match against their opponents in a game were no results is recored but everyone has fun. All the kids play very well.

Dave 'Double O' Evans is looking after the under 12's this year and would haveunately they lost there first game. liked a better start for his little chargers. Unfort

The under 14 Croc's took on Redlynch in their opening game of the season and had a resounding win with multible goal scores. The Crocs ran out winners 139 to 24. The best players were, Alex Forbes, Jacob Hurley, Josh Harris, Zac Stewart an Ashley Davidson.

Port ouglas under 16 Crocs ha avery tough opening game against a strong North Cairns team. After a tough battle Port Douglas went down by a couple of goals.

The Port Douglas Junior Crocs host their first home game of the season this coming weekend and welcome to the Port Douglas Sporting Complex to support all the teams.

Monday 23 March

Mossvegas holds Triathlon

Mossman Pool saw about 40 adult and 5 children competitors competing in a long and short triathlon course on Saturday afternoon.

The long course included 500m swim to start, followed by a 40km bike ride and an 8km run. The short course was only 300m swim, 20km bike ride and 4 km run.

The swimming was completed in the Mossman Swimming Pool, with the ride and run following Mossman Daintree Rd and all the way to the end of Syndicate Rd.

The quickest time from the short course category was 1 hour and 8 minutes with Port Douglas's Sarah McConnell finishing the womens short course in fourth place with a time of 1 hour 13 minuets.

Tuesday 17 March

Dropped catches lose Muddies the Grand Final

The Court House Hotel Port Douglas Cricket Club fell at the final hurdle to United Cairns Cricket Club in the Grand Final of the Cairns Cricket Two Day Competition by just 17 runs.

At the start of Day One The ‘Port Douglas ‘Muddies’ won the toss and decided to bowl on one of the greenest wickets that they have enjoyed this season

All looked like it was on track as opening bowlers, Arnell and Varcoe held the opposition to just 22 runs off the first 20 overs but without knowing it at that stage the stage was being set for the way the game was going to unfold.  In the unexpectedly beautiful weather, the heat was taking it’s toll on the bowlers and slowly but surely United pulled the game back with two well timed batting partnerships in their middle order and ground their way to a respectable 159 all out by 2.30pm, leaving them over two hours to see what the sunbaked Muddies had got left.

Muddies Openers King and Taylor looked comfortable on a wicket that seemed like it was getting easier as the United pacemen went about their task.
King fell to a superb catch in the slips and Port quickly found themselves two wickets down after Marks was again caught behind off Oliver.

Captain McConnell and Keith Taylor again looked set to consolidate the innings but as so often has happened this season Josh McConnell was caught just as he looked like making a big score. And by close of play on day One, Port Douglas were struggling on six down for just 83 runs. 

The good news for day two was that because of earlier bowling duties the two batters at the crease were Haigh Varcoe and Tony ‘Goodo’ Gooding who have so regularly contributed to Muddies victories during the season.

Day two started with great promise as Gooding and Varcoe carefully accumulated their runs and hope began to shine through on the Muddies camp.  Even when Gooding was caught behind and Darrell Mison joined Varcoe the momentum stayed with Port as the runs slowly mounted up.

Unfortunately the fine line the Muddies were treading fell apart as top scorer Varcoe played an uppish drive to mid on and despite a memorable juggling act by the young opposition fielder the ball somehow stayed in his hands and Varcoe was on his way back to the pavilion. 

Despite a gutsy effort  for the last wicket by Matty Schiesser and Sammy Evans the Muddies fell just 17 runs short and first innings lead went to United.

The mood in the Muddies camp was still very positive and it was felt that the poor catching display in the first innings could not revisit them and this match could still be won. 

Dale Arnell’s bowling was inspirational.  His devastating speed and accuracy ripped through the United top order and it looked like the Muddies were going to pull this game out of the fire when at the break United were 6 for 45 with the last session still to play. Alas, the catching gremlins returned and as time slipped away the other Port Douglas bowlers could not clean up the last four wickets. 

All credit to the United batters, they stuck to their task and kept control the wicket like a miser guards his money and thus the Muddies never a chance to reply.  Port Douglas never gave in and continued to work hard to finally get United all out in their second innings but time had run out at 4.45pm and the Game and Championship went to United on first innings victory.

When reflecting on this season, Team Manager Roy Weavers, would like it noted that the Muddies got to the Semi Finals of the One day competition and the Grand Finals of the Two day competition. Not bad for a club that was very nearly a lost cause just two seasons ago. Josh McConnell and his players should feel very pleased with themselves on how far they have come in such a short time.

This season has demonstrated to the Competition administration that Port Douglas should be back in their proper position in the B Grade competition for next season to challenge for even higher honours and who knows we may even be able to attract enough players to field a C grade side as well giving our youth players a route into successful club cricket.

Congratulations on a great season.
‘Go the Muddies’ !

Tuesday 10 March

Mirage monthly medal

Another bumper crowd is expected again at this months Monthly Medal Golf Challenge at the Mirage Golf & Country Club.

With 30 people teeing off in February after a beautiful BBQ, Mirage boss Kerry Jamieson is expecting even more people to challenge last months winners, with all competitors able to enjoy a bevy of sandwiches before play starts.

The Monthly Medal will be held on the 19 March at the Mirage Golf & Country Club. Make sure you make a booking earlier to get yourself a good tee time.

Competitors are asked to call Pro Shop on 07 4099 5537 to book.

Tuesday 10 March

Muddies prep for Final

The Court House Hotel Port Douglas Mudcrabs Cricket Club have prepared well in the week off between the Semi Final and the Grand Final when there were grounds available to play on over last weekend.

All the niggling injuries to players have now been ironed out, with all players ready to go on the 14 & 15 of March at Griffith's Park #2 against United Cricket Club from Cairns.

The Muddies will be training on the centre wicket at the Port Douglas Sporting Club Tuesday & Thursday nights. All supporters are welcome to watch the sessions.

With a nearly a full squad of players to pick from, the Grand Final team will be picked from the following players:

Josh McConnell(c) Tony Gooding(vc) Dale Arnell, Sam Evans, Nathan King, Dave Marks, Darryl Mison, Matt Schiesser, Keith Taylor, Ryan Thwaite, Marty Tranter, Haig Varcoe, Neil Weavers.

Monday 2 March

Muddies make the Grand Final  

The Court House Port Douglas Mudcrabs Cricket Club made the pilgrimage down to Mission Beach on Friday night for the early start in Tully at 10am on Saturday morning for the Semi-Final of the Two Day Cairns Cricket Competition.  

On the drive to the Tully Cricket Ground they were all lucky to see a cassowary which as they area as rare as hens teeth, the boys new it was going to be a good day ahead, or so they hoped. 

On arriving at the ground in magnificent sunshine in the wettest town of Australia, both teams were concerned about the condition of the pitch, and wanting to bowl first. The toss of the coin was won by Mission Beach's captain who sent the Court House Hotel Muddies into bat on the worst pitch of the year.

In all fairness to the grounds keeper, the pitch was a meter underwater only 2 weeks ago and he did a great job to even get a game of cricket played on it. 

With no bounce in the wicket their were only a couple of Port Douglas batsman to adjust to the new conditions. The first wicket fell in only the fourth over when Keith Taylor did not offer a shot to a ball looking to miss the stumps and was given out LBW.

Haig Varcoe then came to the wicket and seemed to adjust to the conditions better then most. Unfortunately Nathan King was looking set, but again the ball kept low and he was judged LBW. Varcoe stayed at the crease the longest and watched some bad shot selections by Arnell, Thwaite, McConnell and Gooding.

Dave Marks came in and steady the ship with Varcoe before Varcoe's bat got caught in the ground before the crease, and was run out for 19, the highest score of the innings. Port Douglas finished the first innings all out for 60. This brought Dale Arnell on to open the bowling and carry on with his great form from Atherton in the last game.

In partnership with Varcoe, the opening pair produced the first Mission Beach wicket in the third over with Arnell taking his first of 6 wickets. With Mission Beach on 1 for 2 Varcoe took two quick wickets in the fourth over putting The Beach on 3 for 2. 

Varcoe and Arnell bowled exceptional line and length and were very well backed up in the field by all players with a very sharp catch in close to Taylor off Arnell. Varcoe finished with figures of 10 overs, 2 maidens, 2 wickets for 16 runs. Dale Arnell stared, bowling 13 overs in a row finishing with 6 maidens 6 wickets for 15 runs.  

Matt Schiesser then continued with more straight bowling with a quick sharp spell of 2 wickets for 3 runs off 3 overs. The Beach were all out for 37 in their first innings. With 2.5 hours left of play on the first day, The Court House Hotel Port Douglas Cricket Club started there second innings in a similar fashion as the first, with an early wicket falling in the fourth over.  

King was looking solid on 13 when a mistimed off drive went straight to a short mid-off fielder. Unfortunately Marks and Thwaite did not put up to much resistance and the third and forth wickets fell on 20 and 23. 

Again Varcoe put in a solid defense with a few well timed shots, stemming the flow of wickets. When Varcoe went for 22 another 3 quick wickets fell for 4 runs. With only 10 minuets left in the days play Tranter and Schiesser defended like true top order batsman should do and gave Port the chance to bat on in the morning. Port Douglas were 9 for 68 overnight. 

On the second days play Tranter and Schiesser faced off another four overs giving the Muddies an easier start to the days play. Port Douglas finished their second innings all out for 70, giving them a lead of 93. With the highest score of the game to chase, Mission Beach were set a hard task when Arnell and Varcoe kept bowling line and length, making the Beaches batsman do all the work of trying to score the runs.

Again four early wickets fell with a sharp catch at second slip by King putting Mission Beach on 4 for 18 of 12 overs.  Zimmer and Dyson from Mission Beach came to the wicket and put on the best partnership of the game getting 24 and 23 respectfully and batting for over an hour and half.

This partnership put some real pressure on all the bowlers and fielders from Port Douglas, and when lunch was called a great game was certainly on with Mission Beach needing 28 runs with 6 wickets in hand. After lunch Port needed something special as everyone looked a little flat from the score line as well as the heat.

On came Tony Gooding, who has bowled some truly magical spells this year.

When a partnership needs to be broken with some hard work, there is no other man you want with the ball in his hands. In the space of 9 balls he took 3 for none which sparked the rest of the team into believing this game was still in reach. 

Arnell came back for another spell of bowling with immediate success taking a wicket with his first ball, leaving Mission Beach needing 18 runs with 2 wickets in hand. Varcoe came back and cleaned up the tail with very tight frustrating bowling, taking 2 wickets for 6 runs. 

Arnell finished with 3 wickets for 9 runs off 11 overs, Varcoe finished with 4 wickets for 23 runs off 13 overs and Gooding had 3 wickets for 14 runs off 10 overs. Mission Beach were all out for 80. 

Court House Hotel Port Douglas Mudcrabs won by 13 runs and play in the Grand Final in Cairns on March 14 & 15 against United Cricket Club at Griffiths Park #2.

Scorecard Mission Beach v Port Douglas

Supporters can enquire about a supporters bus here . .

Monday 23 February

30 hit off at the Mirage

The overall winner was Adam Rust followed by John Caswell on a count back with Keith "Brumbies" Jensen third. 

Despite the hot humid weather golfers played some good rounds and John Caswell also took out both nearest the pins.

The next medal will be held on 19th March and bookings are already being taken for this event.

Monday 23 February

Port cricket washed out again on the Tablelands

After another long drive up to Atherton on the Tablelands, the players from both teams had a wait of an hour before play could start due to rain.

When play resumed Dale Arnell and Haig Varcoe from the Court House Hotel Port Douglas Mudcrabs Cricket club, bowled very good line and length putting the Atherton batters on the back foot from the start which is something that has not happened for a number of weeks, after Tony Gooding's and Matt Schiesser's great form before Christmas.

With lots of rain around, play only continued for 1.5 hours when a heavy rain storm swept across ground. Varcoe and Arnell had each bowled 8 overs when the rain came for the second time making the ground unplayable.

With great fielding to back up the bowlers, Arnell finished with 2 for 20 and Varcoe finished with 2 for 12, leaving Atherton on 6 for 81 cashing Port Douglas's 106 for first innings points leaving the game in the balance when the rain came.

So another disappointing finish to the last game of the season but Port Douglas finished the home and away season unbeaten heading into the semi finals this weekend.

Tuesday 17 February

Muddies long drive to Atherton

Court House Hotel's Port Douglas Cricket Club had a long drive out to Atherton on Sunday for the last 2 day game for the home and away fixture.

The Port Douglas Muddies won the toss and decided to bat first on what looked like a good batting wicket under blue sky's. With the ball coming on slower than anticipated, the top order again failed to play to the conditions losing Taylor to an unlucky dismissal when the ball came off the bottom of his bat on the follow through and landed on top of the stumps. The next ball then got through Varcoe's normally solid defence giving the young bowler from Atherton a chance for a hat-trick.

Fortunately for the Muddies it was not to be with McConnell fending away the hat-trick ball, but then not putting up a fight he played a terrible shot to get himself out in the next over.

So with most of the top order out, a couple of good cameo's from Thwaite, Mison and Hollywood Evans, who finished on 23 not out of 15 balls with a massive 6, gave the skipper a chance to declared with a better total of 8 for 106 after a very bad batting display.

With only 10 fielders, the bowlers were looking to ball straight and produce some early wickets. With a few hard chance's dropped in the last hour of play and bit of way-wood bowling Port let Atherton get 2 for 47 at stumps on the first day.

With opening bowler Dale Arnell coming back into the side for the second week, Port Douglas are very confident of finishing the season with out losing a game in the 2 day series.

Tuesday 10 February

Muddies and United washed out on second day

Court House Hotel Port Douglas Mudcrabs Cricket Club were looking for a great come back win after losing the One Day Series semi final a few weeks ago, against top side United Cricket Club on home soil on Saturday.

After the Muddies bowled and fielded well in the wet conditions, they hold United to 6 for 79 off 50 overs and were looking for a relatively easy run chase on day 2.

Unfortunately mother nature decided there was to be no play in the Cairns Cricket competition on Saturday 7 February due to the monsoonal troff dropping a huge amount of rain.

Port Douglas now plays its last game of the season against the 7th placed Atherton at Loader Park on Sunday 15 & 22 February at 1pm.

With the top four sides looking settled, only a debacle will see any of them dropping out of the finals. click here for points table

Monday 02 February

Muddies tight in the wet

Court House Hotel Port Douglas Mudcrabs Cricket Club played United Cricket Club on Saturday as the winds and rain of Cyclone Ellie grow.

Fortunately for both sides it was the only game of cricket played in the whole competition. After winning the toss, Port Douglas sent United into bat on a dry pitch and damp out field.

Tony Gooding and Dale Arnell opened the bowling with ten overs each of tight straight bowling. At the first drinks break they ha kept united 1 for 12 of 17 overs.

This trend continued when Sam Evans came on with some magic leg spin, claming his first wicket in a couple of games.

The fielding again was exceptional along with the bowling keeping United to 6 for 77 when the rain came in and closed the end of play at 4.15pm.

Court House Hotel Muddies will take the crease next Saturday looking for a good solid start from King and Taylor at the top of the order. With 50 overs to reach 78, the top order has vowed to redeem last weeks batting debacle.

Play start at 1pm at Port Douglas Sporting Complex.

Thursday 29 January

Muddies in top 4

The Court House Hotel Port Douglas Cricket Club resumes the 2 Day Competition against top placed United Cricket Club this Saturday at the Port Douglas Sporting Complex at 1pm.

Port and United played each other in the One Day Competition at Port a few weeks ago and it proved to be a tough game for both sides as United didn't have the numbers to play to their full potential and the Muddies played one of their average games at home after losing early wickets and leaving it upto the tail enders to make sure the win was achievable.

With this a small hoodoo at playing on home soil, all the players are looking for a really solid performance over the next two Saturday's to make sure the Muddies beat the top side gain a top two position going into the final series.

Port Douglas v United - 1pm 31 January & 7 February - 1pm Start.

Court House Hotel Port Douglas Mudcrabs likely team from:

Dale Arnell, Tony Gooding (VC), Sam Evans, Ben Jenkins, Nathan King, Dave Marks, Josh McConnell (capt), Daryl Mison, Mat Scheisser, Keith Taylor, Ryan Thwaite, Neil Weavers, Martin Trantor

8/12/2008

KING SCORES CENTURY AS MUDDIES MARCH ON

Captain Josh McConnell won the toss and without hesitation put his faith in the Court House Port Douglas Mudcrabs batting line-up on Day One of this two day game versus Baron River at Trinity Beach. 

That faith was fully rewarded when Opener Nathan King consolidated his recent good form with the bat by striking a rich vein of runs to celebrate his first Muddies century (103) which included 14 boundaries. The superb confidence of King was ably supported by Ryan Thwaite (23) moving up to help open the innings whilst Keith Taylor is recovering from his shoulder injury and the Captain, himself contributing a dominant 38 to justifiably boost his confidence for the rest of the season.

The Muddies unbeaten so far this season declared at 206 for 8 leaving about 20 minutes to see if their bowlers could inflict a little bit more pain before the day ended. The Baron River openers didn’t take the bait and finished the day at just 8 runs without loss after 7 overs.

On day 2, the Baron River openers resumed their innings but were in immediate trouble as Schiesser had Mathews caught behind in his first over without adding to his first day total. Just as in their last game, the powerful Muddies pace attack kept up the pressure and despite a gutsy fight back for the second wicket, the pressure was kept on all day and Baron River didn’t have the defence against Daryl Mison who picked up 3 wickets for 10 runs.

After some very tight bowling and great fielding, Barron were all out for just 78 runs giving the Muddies another First innings victory. With only an hour left and an outright win just out of reach, McConnell decided to give his top order batters some more batting practice out in the centre and Thwaite responded again with a powerful 48 with 3 big 6’s. 

That makes five straight wins out of five and puts the Court House Muddies in joint first place with United from Cairns. There are just two matches in the 2 day competition left before the Finals but these are not played until the end of January next year. The 50 over One Day competition now starts at 1pm this Saturday (Dec 20) at The Port Douglas Sports Ground.

Come and join us on ‘Chardonnay Hill’ at the Oval and support the mighty Muddies to help ensure they keep their unbeaten record in both competitions this season.

SCORECARD

Sunday 7 December 2008 - Two Dayer

Barron River v Port Douglas

Port Douglas - First Innings

3/12/2008

MUDDIES MAUL MISSION BEACH TO TAKE TOP SPOT

On day two of this 2 day match versus, Mission Beach, the Court House Port Douglas Mudcrabs were going to have to stamp their authority on the match and take a couple of early wickets.

The Muddies had only scored 116 in their first innings and Mission Beach, previously unbeaten this season  were poised on 2 for 29 at the close of play on Day One. So often, well laid plans go wrong very easily and very quickly but not on this day.

Stand-in Captain Tony ‘Goodo’ Gooding wanted quick wickets and didn’t shirk any of the responsibility in getting them. He immediately showed the way by taking two wickets within his first 3 balls of his opening over. This had Mission Beach on the back foot from their very first over.

And the pressure was relentless with Brad Lawlor generating some awesome pace. In fact his 7overs, which included 5 maidens , 2 wickets for just 9 runs were way too fast and way too good for anyone of the opposition batters to cope with.  In the meantime, during his ten over opening spell ‘Goodo’ was consistently bowling dangerously straight with cleverly disguised varied pace and Mission beach quickly fell to 6 for 46 runs. 

So when Haigh Varcoe came into the attack and applied even more pressure on the gutsy stream of opposition batters, the writing was on the wall for the previously unbeaten Mission Beach Senior Eleven. Varcoe bowled 5 overs with 3 maidens and took one vital wicket for just 5 runs.

The fielding display was excellent with the vital catches of the day all being held and when Keith Taylor ran out their eight wicket it fell to Varcoe and Arnell to clean up the tail and maintain the Muddies unbeaten record for the season.  First innings points went to the Muddies when Mission Beach crumbled to 67 all out within the first 2 hours of play .

Port Douglas went back into bat and continued to dominate the day. TaylorKing continued to improve their successful opening partnership before Taylor fell with the score on 44. Julian Harold came to the crease for what could be his last game for the Muddies before he moves up country with his partner for new jobs.  ‘Jules’ so easily could have left us with a memorable innings having hit 12 off his first 5 balls but the fates had other ideas and he was well caught from a skier that could have come down with snow on it !  We’ll miss him very much ! and

Haigh Varcoe joined Nathan King to see the match out with King scoring a well deserved  and unbeaten 52. The Muddies finished on 3 for 99 to sweep up a few bonus batting points to cement their position at the top of the League table.

The last 2 day match of the year starts next Sunday Dec  7 at Trinity Beach at 8.30am vs Barron River.

SCORECARD

Sunday 23 & 30 November 2008 - Two Dayer

Port Douglas v Mission Beach

Port Douglas - First Innings