Hundreds of high school students attended James Cook University’s Nguma-bada campus for the 2025 Cairns open day. The event offered students a chance to experience university life through campus tours, interactive activities, and direct interactions with academics. Professor Stewart Lockie emphasized the importance of the open day in helping students envision their future at university.
Australia's top para swimmers have begun a week-long training camp in Cairns ahead of the 2025 World Para Swimming Championships in Singapore. The 25-member Australian Para Dolphins squad aims to acclimatize to conditions similar to those expected in Singapore, with coach Mel Tantrum emphasizing the importance of the training environment.
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli announced that sugarcane from Mossman farms will continue to be trucked to the Mulgrave mill for at least five years, ensuring stability for local growers. The state government plans to repurpose nearly $6 million previously allocated for transitioning away from sugarcane to support the industry. This arrangement includes the use of purpose-built trailers to improve transportation efficiency.
Local scientists will perform stand-up comedy at the Cairns Festival, showcasing their talents in a unique blend of science and humor. The event, part of the Future Science Talks series, aims to engage the community and entertain audiences across Australia.
The Queensland Symphony Orchestra will perform a unique concert in Far North Queensland on August 2, 2025. This event aims to enhance community understanding and imagination through classical and chamber music.
A block party titled "Crank up the volume" will take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on August 2, 2025. The event will feature a dance party with disc jockeys and is expected to attract music enthusiasts.
The Northern Territory parliament reconvened this week with a law and order report from the Chief Minister. Meanwhile, US, Australian, and New Zealand defense forces conducted their first joint cyber warfare exercise to safeguard critical infrastructure. A series of local incidents, including a fatal truck collision and a home invasion, highlight ongoing safety concerns in the region.
Cairns is shifting towards multigenerational living, a trend expected to become common in Far North Queensland. Experts suggest that higher density housing developments are emerging as a solution to the region's affordable housing crisis, driven by rising prices and increased demand for sustainable growth.
A Top End couple mourns their 22-month-old daughter who died in a tragic incident at a childcare center. They released a photo of her ahead of a coronial inquest into the fatal medical event. Meanwhile, about 34,000 students returned to the NT’s government schools as a popular preschool trial faces cancellation.
The chief executive of a Cape York council will not have her contract renewed amid an investigation into inflated overtime claims. In related news, over 70,000 attendees enjoyed this year's Cairns Show, showcasing the region's vibrant community spirit. Meanwhile, a federal court ruled that the government does not owe a duty of care to protect Torres Strait Islander people from climate change.
A Victorian woman who killed her infant daughter obtained a Working with Children Check due to a loophole, prompting outrage from child safety advocates. In other news, a violent altercation at a building site in Greenvale led to the arrest of a Taylors Hill man following a three-month investigation. Additionally, a $130 million Cadbury distribution center is set to create over 200 jobs in Truganina.
Cairns Regional Council's car park on Bunda St became largely inaccessible after the Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service took over a significant portion of the site. Regular users now face challenges in finding alternative parking solutions. The shift raises concerns about local access to essential services.
Monster Energy will host a bull riding event in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on July 14, 2025. The event, part of the sports and cycling categories, promises to deliver thrilling entertainment for attendees. It will feature notable performances and attractions related to bull riding and the Monster Energy brand.
The Cairns Netball Association plans to utilize a Woolworths’ 2025 netball grant to enhance programs and broaden access for local children, with a focus on First Nations players. This initiative follows the damage caused by Cyclone Jasper.
Magic Men Australia will perform at Cazalys Cairns, promising an electrifying night for attendees. The event is expected to draw a significant crowd, adding excitement to the local entertainment scene.
The Australian Defence Force will conduct Exercise Talisman Sabre, a major military exercise, in Far North Queensland starting July 12, 2025. The event will involve military personnel from Papua New Guinea and Australia. This exercise aims to enhance amphibious warfare capabilities in the region.
Premier David Crisafulli announced plans to combat youth crime in Cairns, including a $35 million upgrade to the Edmonton Police Station and the establishment of a new youth justice school. The initiatives will be funded through the 2025-26 budget, aiming to enhance police resources and support for at-risk youth.
Cairns Mayor Amy Eden supports enhanced access to affordable Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) testing in Far North Queensland. The call for improved testing aligns with growing concerns over childcare safety and health in the region. Childcare advocates also welcome Labor's plans to expand childcare centers and reduce costs for parents.
Australians face rising insurance premiums for electric vehicles, with comprehensive coverage averaging $2,134 for full EVs and $1,649 for hybrids. The Tesla Model Y RWD costs $3,109.81 to insure, while the BYD Dolphin Essential is the cheapest at $1,425.13.
A recent cycling tour raised $2 million for local charities in Cairns, showcasing community support. The event drew participants from various regions, emphasizing the area's commitment to charitable causes and community engagement.
The MaraWay's Skill Up Program empowers women over 25, like Filipino migrant Mary Jade Taguchi, to re-enter the workforce. Taguchi, who dreams of working with children, found support and training through the program, which offers a nationally recognized qualification at no cost. She is now pursuing a career as an early childhood educator in Australia.
Bob Katter criticized the recent decision regarding Sunday trading in the Cairns Region, expressing concerns about its impact on local supermarkets. The event is scheduled for June 25, 2025, highlighting ongoing discussions about economic policies in the area.
Smithfield shopping mall will host an entertainment event from June 25 to July 12, 2025. The event features family-friendly activities, including a photo booth and live performances. This competition aims to attract visitors and enhance community engagement.
A new bus service connects Yarrabah residents to the Portsmith marine precinct, enhancing employment access. Kinetic operates the trial service, which runs three times weekly to Mt Sheridan and Edmonton for errands. The initiative involves multiple local partners and aims to improve transport links for First Nations communities.
