Amy Eden | Public figure

Amy Eden

Phone: +61 477 990 216

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25.01.2022 UPDATE #10 Esplanade Dining Precinct It’s the Esplanade like we’ve never seen it!! It’s worth a look, grab a coffee or an ice cream + come see for yourself! Progressive installation of safety fences Inspections + demolition works of outside structures beginning from the Shields Street end (Rattle N Hum) Roadworks, trenching + civil works

25.01.2022 Tune in TONIGHT at 6:30pm to our 'Carols in Cairns 2020' broadcast, our movie length pre-recorded production filmed and presented from some of our region’s most beautiful and iconic locations showcasing the diversity of our talented Cairns-based artists and performers.

25.01.2022 Storytime Funtime Yesterday I read ‘My dog is as smelly as dirty socks’ by Hanoch Piven and Marie-Jo read ‘The very hungry caterpillar’ by Eric Carle. First 5 Forever is an initiative of the Queensland Government, coordinated by State Library of Queensland and delivered in partnership with local government, in our case Cairns Regional Council. In their first years of life your child's brain forms over one million new connections every second. Research shows the first five... years last a lifetime and that simple, everyday activities with you help to make these connections strong. Talk, read, sing and play together every day to build a strong foundation for your child’s future development. #first5forever #read #readtoyourkids #theveryhungrycaterpillar #mydogisassmellyasdirtysocks #strongfoundation #cairns #library #amyeden

25.01.2022 BUSTED! I thought I’d pop down the the Esplanade after the gym this morning to check on the works thinking it’s early + no one will see me! BUT when I spotted some of the artwork had been installed I was just soo EXCITED I had to ask a tradie to take my photo!! My heart is bursting with happiness to see the art installed + we’ve got more to come! It took a bit of extra work, hot + sweaty trips in the old HR ute (that has no air con) to pick up the the panels but seeing... them up makes it all very worth while!! A MASSIVE thank you to Brad Martin + his team for supporting me with this little project!!! St Gerard Majella School, Woree Saint Augustine's College Parramatta State School

24.01.2022 End the silence on sexual violence Cairns Sexual Assault Service organised a well attended Reclaim the Night in the city yesterday. It was educational + empowering. ‘Yes means YES! No means NO!’

24.01.2022 It was an absolute honour to present the the Australian Resuscitation Club (ARC) Medal to Corey Cox, Amandine Fertel + Sam Woodcock yesterday afternoon. The ARC Medal is awarded for saving a person’s life using CPR + 5 ARC medals have been awarded in Australia this year three of the recipients are lifeguards here at Tobruk Memorial Pool.... The man who had blacked out was 55-year-old Tony Forsyth, a husband, a father of five, and a valuable member of the Cairns Regional Council workforce. Tony is a logistics + events officer with the Marketing + Communications. Despite being pulled lifeless + unconscious from the pool that day, Tony went straight back to work when discharged from hospital. When Tony shared some words I can tell you there wasn’t a dry eye in the room. Council + certainly Tony’s family + friends will be forever thankful for the efforts + professionalism shown by Corey Cox, Amandine Fertel + Sam Woodcock who said I was just doing my job. Humble lifesaving humans!

24.01.2022 As we head into the holiday season many of us go on ‘illumination drives’ checking out all the Christmas lights. While you are out be sure to check out the fairy lights installed recently on Shields Street; they are magical And they are not just here for Christmas - they are here to stay!! Here is a fantastic short video with drone footage from the team at @Phaze Solutions Cakes Annietime HONEY Tan & Wax Jimmys Burger & Co. Bellocale Italian & Seafood Restaurant Making Whoopie Slap and Pickle Low And Slow Smokehouse Theo's Shoe Hospital The Crown Hotel Fasta Pasta Frydays Cairns The Woolshed The Cotton Club P.J.O'Brien's Cairns La Fettuccina Restaurant Wild Thyme Restaurant Suan Suan Restaurant Odyssey Kitchen McGinty's Cairns Waffle On So Unforgettable NightOwl Convenience Singapore Charlie Costume Shop

24.01.2022 True belonging doesn’t require you to change who you are; it requires you to be who you are - Brenè Brown. Have a great week

24.01.2022 Merry Christmas one and all It’s been a roller coaster of a year with challenges for us all (albeit it in different ways). I personally struggled with home learning (teachers are my new heroes) + our family being apart for 75% of the year due to hard boarder closures (fly in fly out life; including this Christmas + New Years) but I have throughly enjoyed being more active + involved in our community. ... Thank you for your support!! If this year has shown us anything it is the generosity + resilience of this amazing tropical community!! Looking forward to working with + for you in 2021! The holiday season isn’t full of fun + laughter for everyone.... if you need someone to talk to the team at Lifeline are always a call away 13 11 24. For all Council related queries + emergencies over the festive season call 1300 69 22 47 - available 24/7. Cool breezes + tropical wishes Xx Amy

23.01.2022 Today was special, it was the first time we had Traditional Owners to do a Welcome to Country, share song, sentiment + stories about NAIDOC + an inclusive future together in a council meeting #bettertogether Thank you Janet Singleton, Carl Fourmile, Daniel Rosendale + Yodie Batzke for what you bought to this special event. First time Council have had a NAIDOC polo + it’s been awesome to see soo many staff wearing it this week. I’ll be wearing mine all the time! Thanks to th...e council officers for organising + coordinating our ‘wall of hands’. #NAIDOC2020 #alwayswasalwayswillbe Dawul Wuru Aboriginal Corporation Minjil DIYDG - Deadly Inspiring Youth Doing Good Pastor Yodie Batzke

22.01.2022 A very special day today as we celebrated the Staff Excellence Awards I’ve said it before (I’ll say it again) the staff do an amazing job at delivering services to our community; they make us councillors look good Congratulations to all the incredible nominees + winners 10 awards grouped line with Council’s Core Principles... o Go home safe + well today + every day o Doing what I did well today, better tomorrow o Serving the Community 3 new (or combined awards) o Most Resourceful Initiative o Young Achiever o Outstanding Morale Builder 220 people took the time to make a nomination 190 people or teams nominated across all categories Record number of people nominated for Outstanding Team Member 65 Some categories so hard to judge we’ve also awarded Highly Recommended 393 people voted in the People’s Choice categories See more

22.01.2022 A field trip to the pound last week really pulled at the heartstrings. We met Annie + Tina who clearly have hearts as big as Phar Lap.... they are amazing with the animals + the owners With the heat well + truly here an air conditioned shipping container has been bought in to house the cats (as the tin shed cattery gets incredibly hot ). The pound can take 43 dogs + 12 cats... and often this is not enough. A new purpose built pound facility is on the cards, which will ensure staff + animal safety.

22.01.2022 Born in Cairns on 28 April 1947, Mr Norman spent most of his life in the region, working in several industries before moving into property development in 1984. A life member of the Cairns Chamber of Commerce, he served as its president from 2000-2007. Bob chaired the Cairns Hospital + Health Service board from 2012-2016, and served on various boards and taskforces including, Freemasons Aged Care + JCU: James Cook University.... The son of Australian aviator Sir Robert Norman, unsurprisingly Bob was an active member of the local aviation community + was a helicopter pilot. The prominent business leader + developer, who served the Cairns community in many roles for decades, passed away suddenly in 2018 at his Redlynch home, aged 71. Mr Norman is survived by his wife Diane and their five children. Council endorsed a general business motion proposing the renaming of the Redlynch Connector Road to Bob Norman Drive. The enduring legacy of one of the city’s renowned + most respected business leaders could be immortalised with renaming one of Council’s largest roads in his honour. The renaming of the road to reflect + honour Bob’s contribution will add to the tapestry of our city’s history. The Redlynch Connector Road is a four lane, median divided sub-arterial road between Cairns Western Arterial Road and Redlynch Intake Road. Renaming the road will remove the confusion associated with the Redlynch Connector/Connection Road and the Redlynch Intake Road. @... ( ). *Photo of the late Bob Norman at the old ambulance building in the city that was originally bought by his dad. The building is still proudly in the family today, tenanted by Chezest Cafe.

22.01.2022 Ok folks, just over a week to go! #chopchop This is an interesting result so far... is it true for you? Do the survey. The bigger the response rate, the more accurate the data. #haveyoursay #ourcairns #ourcairnssurvey

22.01.2022 I’m late in posting this, but it’s still valid + worthy of recognition. Cairns Poppy On are a group of volunteers making + distributing crochet poppy banners, badges + projects. Cairns Poppy On are the Cairns + FNQ chapter of the now retired 5000 Poppies Project created by Lyn Berry + Margaret Knight. A massive thank you to GFM for supporting the Poppy crew to install + deinstall poppies at the Tobruk Memorial Pool Anzac Memorial Sculpture with their cherry picker. What a generous act of kindness #cairnscares #cairnspoppyon #cairns

21.01.2022 In what has been a very tough week at the office... I was happy to hit the road to do ‘Run 3’ for Meals On Wheels (MOW) with John + Donna It was a privilege + inspiring to spend time with John, who has been volunteering with MOW for 10 years + Donna, who has been joining John for the past 7 years. What hearts they have + what champions they are!! MOW was founded in 1968, operational the following year. MOW first operated out of YAL (Young Australian’s League) Centre ...on Martyn St. MOW now operate out of Barlow Park + receive support from Cairns Regional Council MOW delivers over 1,000 meals a week, do 10 runs a day, have 30 volunteers daily, 20 on the streets (driving) + 10 in the kitchen plus they employe 6 administration staff. This was a happy + positive experience with the residents (all division 5) friendly + delighted to have nutritious + delicious meals delivered. My heart is full

21.01.2022 Months ago a resident reached out to me to share concerns + ideas for vehicle, cyclist + pedestrian safety. I replied.... the communication continued. TODAY WE MET! We chatted over a well-worn map + shared stories for 2 hours. In parting the resident said today was their must joyous in years... WOW! AND they gave me their special probably 50 year old pen At a wise age of 82 they spend 50% of their time on dialysis... but they are mentally sharp, knowledgeable + have much to offer. I feel very privileged to have held space + time with them *gift registered on gift register

21.01.2022 What a glorious Saturday... grab a cuppa, kick back + see what’s been happening the last month in Division 5. After watching this is there anything you want to know more about?

21.01.2022 Now how’s this for a partnership?! Council’s Cairns Libraries are so proud to be partnering with Queensland Police Service (QPS) to support their new trial program "Backseat Book Boxes". Cairns Libraries have donated 200 children’s books which will be made available in QPS vehicles for children who have been removed from traumatic situations. These books will be used as a calming influence + can then be kept by the child afterwards. Book ownership has been directly link...ed with improved mental health amongst children + a greater propensity to read for pleasure, whilst reading fluency itself has a significant impact on children’s successful progression through education. The trial is being undertaken by the Cairns Police across Cairns, the Tablelands, Cape Tribulation + the Cassowary Coast.

21.01.2022 Today we visited the ‘Re-Discovery Centre’ at the materials recovery facility (MRF). The re-discovery education room is fantastic + a testament to our desire to be the clean green capital of northern Australia (growing + inspiring our next generation of environmental ambassadors) Our waste education program saw 1,400 students visit last year + the new education room which is part of the new MRF can accommodate some 3,000 students to visit, ...learn + grow. This is where our leaders of tomorrow can learn that 60% of red bin waste is good / organic waste (let’s compost!) + 20% is recyclable!! If we become better at recycling + composting we will save money on all the processing of our waste. FACT: Old MRF saw 25 tun a day as residual waste into landfill. New MRF sees 7 tun a day FACT: sorting results - old MRF 90% quality 10% contamination of sorting, new MRF has 98% quality 2% contamination FACT: Waste levies are increasing! The less waste to landfill the less financial impact PLUS environmental benefits #watchthisspace as the offical opening of the MRF (including the re-discovery centre) is penciled in for the 12th March 2021.

21.01.2022 It’s the little big things. Parramatta State School and A/Principal Michael Patane are working hard to beautify their school and asked if we could help by installing a bin cover on the Mulgrave Road side. What do you reckon? I reckon it looks great!! Have you got a little thing that would make a big difference that you’d like to see happen?

21.01.2022 Open air, star-lit movie night at the lush Munro Martin Parklands... sounds good!! FREE ticketed (to comply with Covid) event

20.01.2022 UPDATE #14 Esplanade Dining Precinct Removal of asbestos Gantry/scaffolding installation at Oasis Kebab Roadworks, trenching + civil works (LOTS) Inspection works at Bavarian Beerhouse Cairns... Construction of footings/retaining walls + shared paths See more

20.01.2022 I delivered food hampers to families + seniors in need last year. This is such a worthy cause. It makes a difference. If you can, please donate

20.01.2022 SNEAK PEEK inside the

20.01.2022 The wet season is (finally) here 6 days between photos (current as of Saturday 2.1.21) at the Barron Gorge. See link below for a really handy flyer with information on everything you need to know + do when preparing for a cyclone including planning, what to pack in your emergency kit + where to get up to date information from. ... https://www.cairns.qld.gov.au//Preparing-for-Cyclones,-Eng More information available at Cairns Disaster Centre.

20.01.2022 UPDATE #6 Esplanade Dining Precinct Granite paving progressing *grout started* Bridges installed to assist with trade Stormwater drainage + electrical systems installation across Esplanade NB: Esplanade will be closed from Monday 7th Sept from Spence to Aplin Street.

20.01.2022 ’ Firework displays will be held at the Cairns Esplanade + Palm Cove to draw the curtain on a challenging year + celebrate the coming year with a renewed sense of optimism. At the Esplanade, family friendly fireworks will be held at 8.30pm with a second display at midnight to welcome the New Year. The Palm Cove fireworks display will be at 8.30pm.... The firework displays had been pared back this year due to a lack of sponsorship + the high costs of staging the events to maintain COVID compliance. Our NYE Resolution 4km Fun Run along the northern section of the esplanade is on again this year! All ages welcome and the first 300 runners over the finish line will receive a delicious Jackley’s Bakehouse cupcake for their efforts! To honour the superheroes in our community such as frontline workers, medical staff, firefighters, police, teachers etc, this year's theme is ! Not all heroes wear capes but make sure to dress up as your favourite superhero! Prizes will be awarded to best dressed human + dog! Fun Run registration link in comments. Pic of last year’s fun run ‘the roaring 20’s’

19.01.2022 The weather is crap! So now is the perfect time to get cosy on the couch and reflect on what you love about Cairns and what could make it better. Does having a wine or a cold beer with takeaway on the Esplanade sound good to you? Let us know, survey link in comments

19.01.2022 A recent visit to St Frannie’s was fun + inspiring.... curious children keen to learn Then when I received the below article I was blown away; we are in safe hands with our leaders of tomorrow - they are amazing!! They submitted the below article to The Cairns Post to be featured in the ‘aspire section’, naturally the students were disappointed it didn’t go to print, so I offered to share it for them. The students will be checking this post so if you could do me a favour....Continue reading

19.01.2022 UPDATE #12 Esplanade Dining Precinct The road + pavements are starting to take shape... looking good!! demolition works of outside structures beginning from the Shields Street end Installation of scaffold Roadworks, trenching + civil works... construction of footings/retaining walls + shared paths See more

19.01.2022 3 years ago today I did my first public speech... it was an amazing experience that well and truly pushed me out of my comfort zone. To this day still so grateful to Jennifer McHugh for the opportunity + to the entire TEDxJCUCairns crew for their support I am proud to say I still open + close the Manoora Community Garden gate almost daily + that John + Dre (featured in talk) have ‘out grown’ the garden with employment commitments - which is fantastic for them!

18.01.2022 HAVE YOUR SAY || The time is now Ok Cairns if you haven’t already jumped on Council’s website to complete the once every 4 years survey... it’s time. We want to know your thoughts on housing density.... do you want duplexes + triplexes in your suburb?? What about multi-story buildings, where do you want them? Do survey now, https://www.cairns.qld.gov.au/counc/have-say/open/ourcairns

18.01.2022 UPDATE #7 Esplanade Dining Precinct Much of the same... ‘groundhog day’ Granite paving progressing Bridges installed to assist with trade Stormwater drainage + electrical systems installation across Esplanade

18.01.2022 And just like that the mental health ward is gooone! Inpatient mental health services to the community during construction will be met with an interim unit of 20 beds inside the hospital in D Block.

17.01.2022 Many hands make light work, we’d love your help If you can’t help by attending, please do your bit by tagging + sharing

17.01.2022 It’s been a real curveball of a year... and Christmas is only 15 weeks away Council’s Christmas tree, usually erected on the Cairns Esplanade is moving to Shields Street this year to accommodate works associated with the Esplanade Dining Precinct and the Lagoon Plaza renewal. What do you reckon, is this a good location??

17.01.2022 Who else has noticed the heat? Summer is here Keep hydrated

17.01.2022 A few hours volunteering at the Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation gift wrapping station. My little helper said she would take the donations because she didn’t know how to wrap.... by the end she was serving shoppers + wrapping on her own! It was a lovely way to chat to people, support a very worthy cause + grow my daughter’s value of giving back to community. #cairnscares #foragoodcause #fnqhf #volunteer #giftwrapping #christmas #veryproud #rolemodel #givingback #communityservice #cairns #amyeden

16.01.2022 Pottering around the house this morning & ticking jobs off my list... registered for postal voting Top tip: CAPS for name

16.01.2022 Humans are hardwired for connection; we need it just like we need food + water. There is no need to be alone this Christmas. Please join volunteers + other ‘Christmas orphans’ for a tasty meal, conversation + a feeling of belonging #cairnscares #localssupportinglocals #bettertogether

16.01.2022 I’ve been heard saying Cairns cares for years.... because we do!! #cairnscares In what can only be described as a bloody tough year (emotionally + financially) the people of Cairns have opened your hearts + wallets ! This year a record $107,000 was raised for Council’s Mayor Christmas Cheer Appeal The Christmas hampers are not fancy; staples such as rice, pasta + flour with treats such as chips, cordial + of course a Lions Christmas cake. These h...ampers are a physical symbol of hope + love for the people who receive them. Lovingly packed by Rotary Club of Cairns Sunrise + other volunteers And to add weight to the fact that GoFundMe have just reported !! Picture of my daughter helping me deliver a Hillux load of hampers to families + seniors last year

15.01.2022 UPDATE #20 Esplanade Dining Precinct Check out the before + after shots Tools down for two week holiday season Head on down to the Esplanade + be sure to check out the artwork + support the traders

15.01.2022 It’s NAIDOC week; it goes all week (it’s not just a single event). Acknowledging + celebrating the history, culture + achievements of Australia’s First Nations peoples is a lifetime thing. I am very thankful to have the love, frankness, honesty + guidance of Rita from Pryce Centre for Culture and Arts. A quick catch up yesterday with Rita resulted in a quick time check only to realise we’d been chatting for 2 hours The collection of photos were taken from Rita’s off...ice at Bulmba-ja. The photos of ‘Stages to Success’ students were taken while on a study tour in the US, the quote was written in a similar style on Rita’s whiteboard, the Aboriginal flag was made by her grandson + resonates deeply with Rita as the coloured paper is torn + represents the experience of First Nations people being torn apart... but they are . A proud Torres Strait woman the Dhari (headdress) is symbolic of Rita’s roots. And the cute Noriwasabi dolls holding hands represents that we are better together #onelove #NAIDOC2020 #alwayswasalwayswillbe #firstnations #cairns

15.01.2022 Happy World Teacher’s Day QLD Cairns Regional Council are thanking + honouring our teachers this year by lighting up Munro Martin Parklands in blue, green + purple It’s been an extremely tough year for teachers + students + we really appreciate all the love + dedication you put into educating our leaders of tomorrow (Pic of teacher present from last year) Parramatta State School St Joseph's School, Cairns St Augustine's College St Monica's College, Cairns Cairns State High School Mother of Good Counsel School, North Cairns

15.01.2022 As we wrap up the year and bring in the new, let’s just skip the part where we beat ourselves up with negative self talk, resolutions that eat away at our self-worth, the 'shouldas' and 'couldas'. It was a pretty woeful year, let’s be honest. Lockdowns and loss. Loss of security, income, toliet paper, health, freedoms.... loss of life as we knew it. But with storms come rainbows, darkness.. light. However, this crappy covid course has delivered us a ‘collective effervescence...’ - an experience of connection, communal emotion, and a sensation of sacredness that happens when we are part of something bigger than us. (Emile Durkheim) This is the time to lift each other up, give yourself and those around you a pat on the back. We did it! And we are continuing to do it. Let’s now make this time of year one where we live in the moment. Where we resolve to choose kindness to ourselves and to others. This year has shown us that we are resilient, generous and better together!! You did well. Well done to us all. Each and every one. No one knows what next year will bring, so remember we did it before and together we can do it again. Let’s take the strengths and new skills we've gained from 2020, including our sourdough recipe, (let's leave the term pivot behind though) and rise stronger in 2021. #newyear #bye2020 #hello2021 #kindness #bettertogether #rise #amyeden #cairns

15.01.2022 A lovely morning out visiting residents of Mercy Health Coral Sea Gardens, Westcourt. Barry, the gentleman in the top photo between Mayor Bob Manning and I reached out to me on Facebook a few months ago... and today we met!! Stories shared, a very tasty spread for morning tea (thanks to Julie + others from the residents social club & Mama Coco’s) plus a tour of the village.

14.01.2022 UPDATE #18 Esplanade Dining Precinct

13.01.2022 Feel Good Friday Last week we had a group of volunteers from YWAM (youth with a mission) paint primer onto sheets of ply that will be painted by community (all sheets are allocated to schools + community members). The painted ply will then be hung up on the gantry in the esplanade dining precinct construction area, do #WatchThisSpace It will brighten up the area, make it interesting + hopefully encourage family, friends + fellow students of the painters to come down to the esplanade + check their work.

13.01.2022 Tune into our movie length ‘Carols in Cairns’ on Sunday 6th Dec + let’s light up Cairns from the comfort of the couch as we all turn our lights on

12.01.2022 A grassroots community NAIDOC celebration that bought ‘all colours’ of the community together with First Nations people celebrating + sharing their culture with language, prayer, song, kai kai (food) cooked traditionally (kup murri), weaving + fun face painting for the children. Being asked by Carl Fourmile from Minjil to help light the fire was an honour + seeing an opportunity to help by serving sop sop (a rich yellow root vegetable coconut stew) was a lovely way to individually connect with everyone. Thanks for the invite Yolonde Entsch + congratulations to all the people that contributed to make this event happen. Cairns Villa and Leisure Park Merindi Schrieber Wheels of Wellness Ngamumu + thank you Cairns Local News Cairns Post for your coverage of the event

12.01.2022 Calling all Mindcrafters Minecraft Build Competition // 20/21 bought to you by Council’s Cultural Services Let the games begin!! ... Calling all kids, Mums, Dads, Builders + Architects! It's time to compete against each other and players across the region for a share of $1,500 worth of prizes and the coveted crown of FNQ's top Minecraft architect! Open to people of all ages, located in the Cairns Regional Council, Mareeba Shire Council, Tablelands Regional Council, Cassowary Coast Regional Council, Douglas Shire Council and Etheridge Shire Council local government areas. , Find out all the details + how to enter here >> www.cairnsminecraft.com

12.01.2022 Honestly Council’s Cairns Libraries just keep on delivering to our community!! First5Forever team has been working with a local speech therapy business to develop information sessions for parents/carers of children 0-5 years. How good is this? These sessions aim to educate parents/carers on the typical development of a child’s speech, language + literacy skill.... See event for full details.

12.01.2022 Work Christmas party last night I worked the bar (yes I had to get my RSA - responsible service of alcohol) + it was fun!! It was a really great way to thank the many people who do so much to make our city awesome! A few of the crew who see me filming the Esplanade dining precinct said I looked different without my camera + asked if I was going to whip my camera out... but they were too quick for me! Max O'Halloran - Div. 7

11.01.2022 Very happy to be part of making this happen!

10.01.2022 APPRECIATION POST || A shoutout to all the crew working on the Esplanade Dining Precinct project! They are working long hours, in constrained conditions + getting it done. Legends! And how awesome is this lunch spot?

10.01.2022 On Friday night Max O'Halloran - Div. 7 + I attended Cairns Regional Council’s very special dinner to honour + celebrate staff of the ‘25 Year Club’. The 25 year club is for staff who have served 25+ years to community! We have 119 members of the 25 Year Club, a true testament to Council being a great place to work, with great colleagues + opportunities. Friday night 17 new members were inducted into the club; such a wonderful achievement! 25 years ago I was starting high school... what were you doing in 1995? #cairnsregionalcouncil #25yearclub #quarterofacentury #congratulations #proud #1995 #amyeden #cairns

10.01.2022 UPDATE #17 Esplanade Dining Precinct

10.01.2022 Friday 20th Nov was White Ribbon Day. , . In Australia, women have experienced being sexual harassed, and women are almost than men to have experienced violence inflicted by a partner since the age of fifteen...Continue reading

10.01.2022 Tools down for the tradies it’s time for cheers + beers with our traders. The Esplanade Dining Precinct project is large, multilayered + complex project with everyone involved contributing to bringing it all together #manyhandsmakelightwork #bettertogether Here are some of the names + faces involved in the project. Some are still learning their trade while others are the leaders in their field; regardless they are all proud of being involved in this project + delivering a first class result to their community #localssupportinglocals #connectingcommunities #legacy *Unfortunately not everyone involved in project is captured in this short video.

09.01.2022 Planting trees + growing leaders of tomorrow Parramatta State School grade 6 students put down their pens and exercise books to help plant trees and shrubs, which will enhance the front of the school. Cairns Regional Council supplied about 180 plants for the project, assisted with soil preparations and landscaping, and helped install an automated irrigation system. This is a wonderful project that helps to create pride of place, which is so important in building a sen...se of community and belonging. Getting young people involved in tree planting activities helps to plant the seed of the rich benefits of a green and sustainable community and it also ties in well with the school’s education program. In a year that these students have lost a lot due to Covid (their end of school camp, ANZAC celebrations etc) this was a relished opportunity.

09.01.2022 HAPPY FATHER’S DAY We usually spend Father’s Day morning at Cultural Services Carnival On Collins... no event this year due to covid. We know it will be bigger + better than ever next year! So we are heading to the beach + mixing things up! To all the dads + father figures out there, have an ace day + know you are the world to your loved ones

09.01.2022 If I had teens I would certainly send them to this camp! I whole heartedly trust + respect Laurie + Dan and know they would have a positively profound impact on any teens they spend time with. Brilliant that we have this opportunity here in Cairns

09.01.2022 A drizzly, cool Sunday morning is perfect for grabbing some books + getting comfy on the couch. Last week I had the absolute pleasure of reading one of my favourite books ‘The Highway Rat’ at our beautiful Stratford Cairns Libraries. Plus tomorrow at 10am in partnership with OzHarvest Cairns First 5 Forever story time will be under the big shady trees at Harold Falge Park (formally Lennon St Park).

09.01.2022 A little late getting this monthly update to you... as you will see things have not slowed down as we travel towards Christmas What’s great about these videos is it means I am not stuck in the office, I’m actively out + about. Thanks to all the people who’ve chatted with me while I’m out filming. A N D a very big thank you to the viewers who provide feedback + ask questions

09.01.2022 The festive season isn’t full of joy + laughter for everyone... the holiday closure period is tough when you are doing it tough! Although many of us are separated from loved ones this holiday season, you are not alone! A very useful support guide below, click on photo to zoom in for full details.

09.01.2022 Each year Council partners with Clean Up Australia to run a series of community clean-ups as part of the Great Northern Clean Up. On Saturday at the Parramatta Park clean up we picked up a total of 26 bags of rubbish plus 3 bike frames, a shopping trolley, a pram and a few other bits of metal + concrete waste. A great effort by all the volunteers (not all pictured here)! Many hands make light work! There is still opportunities to get involved with clean ups on Saturday + Sunday this weekend and the following weekend. Full details on Council’s website.

08.01.2022 Whose been into the city to check out the lights on Shields St? Soo pretty! A big thank you to Bruce Gardiner for making this happen.... I know I pestered you a lot + it took longer than anticipated but the result is wonderful + very much appreciated by the traders Cakes Annietime Jimmys Burger & Co. Bellocale Italian & Seafood Restaurant Making Whoopie Slap and Pickle Low And Slow Smokehouse Theo's Shoe Hospital The Crown Hotel Fasta Pasta Frydays The Woolshed The Cotton Club P.J.O'Brien's Cairns La Fettuccina Restaurant Wild Thyme Restaurant Suan Suan Odyssey Kitchen McGinty's Waffle On So Unforgettable NightOwl Convenience Singapore Charlie Costume Shop

08.01.2022 UPDATE #19 Esplanade Dining Precinct

08.01.2022 NAIDOC Week 8 - 15 Nov NAIDOC is about celebrating the history, culture + achievements of Aboriginal + Torres Strait Islander peoples; our First Nations people. This years theme ‘always was and always will be’ recognises that First Nations people have occupied + cared for this continent for over 65,000 years!! ... Aboriginal + Torres Strait Islander people were Australia’s first explorers, first navigators, first engineers, first farmers, first botanists, first scientists, first diplomats, first astronomers + first artists. To acknowledge + celebrate the contribution of First Nations people in our lives this week at Cairns Regional Council we have new polo tops (which are just as beautiful to wear as they are to look at - you can order from Bundarra Brand ) + we are creating a ‘wall of hands’ displaying messages from all 1,200 staff members. #watchthisspace for the pic of the hands #onelove A very big eso (thank you) to one of my sissys, friend, cultural mentor + guide for the message for my hand card. My card reads ‘Walk with us - Ngalpa kaymel mab uzaari ‘ in Kala Lagaw Ya language. Personally I acknowledge the wisdom of our First Nations people in my everyday - as mentioned above First Nations people were the first experts at everything + I have learned soo much + am still learning soo much. I am blessed to have so many talented, generous + patient First Nation brothers + sisters in my life. Everyday I thank you!!! I’d love to hear what you are doing to celebrate NAIDOC Week. Don’t be shy. Nothing is gammon. Let’s share + grow together. #naidocweek #naidoc #naidoc2020 #alwayswasandalwayswillbe #firstnations #aboriginal #torresstraitislander #acknowledge #celebrate #getinvolved #bethechange #culture #cairns #walkwithus #bettertogether #positivebroadcaster #amyeden #deadly #actionsspeaklouderthanwords Cairns Naidoc

07.01.2022 UPDATE #11 Esplanade Dining Precinct WOW! Check out the progress this week... Progressive installation of safety fences Inspections + demolition works of outside structures beginning from the Shields Street end (Rattle N Hum) Installation of gantry and scaffold from Rattle N Hum Night Markets.... Roadworks, trenching + civil works removal of some pathway pavers, the construction of footings/retaining walls See more

07.01.2022 UPDATE #13 Esplanade Dining Precinct It’s been a hot week It looks like a digger + truck lovers dream... busy, busy! Cairns Night Markets sign removed Continuation of scaffold installation Roadworks, trenching + civil works (LOTS)... Inspection works at La Pizza Trattoria Construction of footings/retaining walls + shared paths See more

07.01.2022 UPDATE #9 Esplanade Dining Precinct Progressive installation of safety fences Inspections + demolition works of outside structures beginning from the Shields Street end (Rattle N Hum) Roadworks, trenching + civil works

06.01.2022 When my trusty hilux tray wasn’t big enough.... I got back up! A shameless shoutout to these two; Ivan + Rob They helped me deliver 20 x large ply sheets today to schools + community members who are going to paint them. They’ll be displayed in the Esplanade Dining Project construction area to brighten it up + make it interesting. Think colour + flavour Also a huge thank you to Bruce, Brad, Dion + Paul in the infrastructure team for supporting this community engagement initiative Honestly, these council officers make me look good. Thank you, thank you, thank you!! #ittakesavillage #communityengagement #positivemovement #getinvolved #bettertogether #thankyou

05.01.2022 Did another pick up of painted panels to spruce up the construction area of the Esplanade Dining Precinct. Totally blown away by this amazing piece by young aspiring artist Amber Grossmann!! Install today, so make sure you get down to the Esplanade to check it out

05.01.2022 This years Council NYE Fun Run was themed 'superheroes'. I dressed up as an A+ teacher.... not all heroes wear capes! With the covid lockdowns home schooling was a thing... and it turns out I don't make a great teacher I have a renewed appreciation for all the teachers out there! What an incredibly challenging year it was for you all - and you all did it soo impressively!! If my 'teacher' badge didn't give people a clue what I dressed up as I was sure my apple prop would give it away.... after all apples are a symbol of knowledge. Hope you had a lovely New Years Eve + wishing you all the very best for 2021! FrontRow Foto

05.01.2022 UPDATE #15 Esplanade Dining Precinct

04.01.2022 UPDATE #8 Esplanade Dining Precinct On that home stretch for Ironman now... Granite paving, grouting + sealing Bridges installed to assist with trade Stormwater drainage + electrical systems installation across Esplanade

04.01.2022 Annie + Tina have hearts as big as Phar Lap and do an amazing job looking after dogs + cats that come into Council’s care (pound). They’ve been running reading with dogs in the park activities this year + to celebrate the year’s end they organised a casual + fun Christmas party in the park. #locallegends

03.01.2022 Well this is a bit exciting!! Check out the artwork by the very talented students from Parramatta State School that will be displayed along the Esplanade construction to give it some colour, personality + local connection. I put the call out and the staff + students at Parramatta put their hands up + delivered! I’ll post once the artworks are installed so you can go down + check it out!

03.01.2022 **** UPDATE****** All allocated, with waitlist. Thank you for your interest ******** THANK YOU *******... FREE FRANGIPANIS As part of the Esplanade Dining Precinct project you may recall a few months ago we lost a few trees (being replaced by almost double the amount removed) that had to be removed as they were planted in + around service pipes which were being upgraded. Well.... I managed to save some of the 18 year old frangipanis Our A M A Z A I N G Council crew did more than save them... they’ve potted the cuttings, loved (watered) them + made sure they ‘striked’ - ! Details: 1 x plant per person Pick up - at Council, 119-145 Spence St, Cairns You will be asked for your your full name on collection Plant could be any colour (we have a mix of colours available) Secure a plant: , 40 plants available Text ‘Frangipani please’ along with your first + last name + suburb to 0477990216

03.01.2022 Today we visited our Martyn Street Depot The crews here are legends, repairing everything from our roads, paths, council vehicles + machinery etc! With over 300 staff on 9.5ha site they sure have made the best use of the space. Thanks Martyn Street team for all you do

03.01.2022 Last week’s field trip to Council’s Water Laboratory + Freshwater Treatment Plant Council’s Laboratory Service is a National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA) accredited laboratory providing a range of chemistry and microbiology testing services for public + private customers across Far North Queensland. A typical Cairns resident uses 284 litres of drinking water per day. Only 1% of water used per person per day is used for drinking! Tips on how to save water can... be found on the Council’s website, search ‘water saving’. Thanks to all the staff that made us feel welcome, answered all our questions + shared so much about what you do, how you do it + why you do it. It was inspiring to witness the commitment of high quality water supply from everyone

03.01.2022 Today we visited the Cairns Disaster Centre + learnt about the amazing work the team do during disasters but also activities, programs + supports to build community resilience to prepare for such events. Get Ready Week is a chance to get your home ready for the wet season + the chance of heavy rain, flooding and cyclones. Things to think about:... Check your household emergency kit, replace food + batteries that may be out of date and refresh your water supplies Clean out your gutters Check your roof + organise repairs if needed Clean up green waste around your home that could contribute to flooding or become a projectile in strong winds Cut back trees + remove damaged limbs that could fall on your or a neighbour’s home in strong winds Stock up on sandbags. If you have sandbags from previous years, check they are still sound (the bag may deteriorate over time) Ensure your plan includes your pets. You’ll need to make sure they’re secure if sheltering at home or that you can take them with you when evacuating to another household

02.01.2022 The Christmas spirit is alive + well at Cairns Regional Council Yesterday my fellow councillors Cathy Zeiger - Div. 3, Kristy Vallely - Div.6, Rhonda Coghlan - Div. 8 + I had the very important job of judging the Christmas decorations + best bribes #seriousbusiness We have such an amazing team here at Council!! The staff strive to serve their community + that same level of commitment was definitely put into their Christmas decorating! Many teams crafted for months, up cycl...ing, repurposing, baking, planning... impressive!! It was FUN!! It was a lovely way to get to know the staff a bit better + hear what the holiday seasons means for them. The camaraderie + care amongst the workgroups was evident through the sharing of food, stories + teamwork. I was particularly touched by the different ways that workgroups acknowledged + included the different meanings of Christmas + the holiday season within their teams. One group have had themed morning teas this month to acknowledge + celebrate the different cultures in their team.

02.01.2022 UPDATE #16 Esplanade Dining Precinct Watch till the end *late in posting - sorry!

02.01.2022 Over 7,000 people have told Cairns Regional Council what they think - have you? Last chance Cairns, survey finishes on Friday. https://www.cairns.qld.gov.au/counc/have-say/open/ourcairns #ourcairns #haveyoursay #make2020count

01.01.2022 The buzz of IRONMAN in Cairns is on us! It’s super exciting!! We are so happy to have this event here in Cairns, especially this year!! A huge thank you to all the crews who have been working under pressure to get the Esplanade ready. For maps + information about the event + road closures checkout https://www.ironman.com/im-cairns-course

01.01.2022 Hammering this sign in bought back ‘trauma’ of the campaign trail An afternoon of banana harvesting at Manoora Community Garden #growingourcommunity