Cairns FM89.1 Radio

31/07/2025

The Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation has announced a leadership update, reflecting both continuity and renewal in its commitment to improving health care across the region.

Chairman Dr Ken Chapman has been reappointed as chair, maintaining his longstanding role at the helm.

His dedication since the Foundation’s inception in 1997 has been instrumental in driving initiatives that enhance health care services in Far North Queensland.

Board members Pat Bailey and Professor John McBride have stepped down from their board positions.

Mrs Bailey, who joined the board in May 2000, has contributed 25 years of outstanding service. “That’s an incredible contribution to the community over many years, aside from her many other voluntary roles,” Dr Chapman said.

Professor John McBride will continue to serve as a member of the Foundation’s Research and Education Committee, ensuring continuity in the Foundation’s strategic focus on medical research and professional development.

“His contributions have been instrumental in setting up our research support program – he has been the driving force behind that,” Dr Chapman said.

Joining the board is Lesley Ray, a highly experienced fundraiser with a distinguished background at the Mater Foundation. Her expertise in philanthropic strategy and donor engagement is expected to strengthen the Foundation’s fundraising efforts and community outreach. Originally from Mareeba, Ms Ray holds a Master of Business Research, is a Certified Fundraising Executive and has previously been on
the board of CFRE International as well as being a Fellow and past national Chairman of the Fundraising Institute of Australia.

Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service Chief Executive Leena Singh also has joined the Foundation’s board. Chief Executive Officer Gina Hogan expressed appreciation for the outgoing members and welcomed the new appointment.

“Pat and John have made invaluable contributions to our goals. We’re grateful for their service and pleased that John will continue to guide our research and education efforts. We’re also excited to welcome Lesley Ray, whose fundraising experience will be a tremendous asset to the Foundation.”

The Foundation remains focused on delivering superior health care outcomes for Far North Queensland, supported by a passionate team of staff, volunteers, and board members.

Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation

31/07/2025

0349 DZ 300
Spartans and All That – Plataea – The Battle – To Battle, the Spartans Avenge Thermopylae - Part 45

Battle of Plataea - David Chas
The Big Battle - Johnny Cash.
Long Promised Road - The Beach Boys.
When the Battle Is Over - Aretha Franklin
Stand by Me - Elvis Presley.
Paths of Victory - Bob Dylan
Battle Symphony- Linkin Park.
Danger Zone – Kenny Loggins.

2pm today, don't miss it!
www.cairnsfm891.org.au
or stream at
https://radio1AK2.shoutcast.net.au:2020/public/8008
or download the App!
Also available as a podcast.

30/07/2025

New Children’s Book Series Brings Torres Strait Islander Language and Culture into Classrooms
Cairns, Australia – On Sunday 3 August, one day before Indigenous Children's Day, Ilan Style will officially launch the first six books in the Meriam Mir Learning Set—a series of vibrant children’s books that bring Torres Strait Islander language and culture into Australian classrooms in an engaging and accessible way.
Developed by Ilan Style, a 100% Indigenous woman-owned initiative, the Meriam Mir Learning Set introduces 34 Meriam Mir keywords and 10 short phrases across six beautifully illustrated storybooks. While written primarily in English, the books embed important Meriam Mir vocabulary—covering themes like nature, sea animals, and family—supported by pronunciation guides, English translations, and videos featuring Elder Adimabo.
Each book is enhanced with original songs and multi-sensory learning tools to ensure a culturally rich and immersive experience for students and educators alike. The project was developed in collaboration with linguists, educators, and community Elders to ensure authenticity and accuracy.
“This project is about more than language learning,” said Ilan Style founder, Kerry Arabena. “It’s about creating meaningful cultural connections and empowering future generations to learn, speak, and celebrate Meriam Mir and Torres Strait Islander identity.”

Launch Event Details:
Date: Sunday 3 August 2025
Time: 2:00pm – 3:00pm
Location: Golden Palm Room, Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns 209–217 Abbott St, Cairns City QLD 4870
Dress Code: Casual / Smart Casual

What to Expect:
● Meet the creators and cultural contributors
● Light refreshments
● Limited capacity — Book your spot

Explore Torres Strait culture with stories, art & Meriam Mir words. Celebrate and share First Nations heritage with your community.

30/07/2025

Each year the Australian Government publishes a discussion paper to inform and seek the views of the Australian public on the management and composition of the Humanitarian Program (the Program).

The Department of Home Affairs acknowledges the importance of engaging with the community to ensure continued support for the Program and appreciates your feedback.

The Australia’s Humanitarian Program 2025-26 Discussion Paper is now available on the department’s website: https://www.homeaffairs.gov.au/reports-and-publications/submissions-and-discussion-papers
We have also attached the document for your convenience.

We invite all interested people and organisations to make a written submission to [email protected] by 5pm, Wednesday 6 August 2025.

Department of Home Affairs

Home Affairs brings together Australia's federal law enforcement, national and transport security, criminal justice, emergency management, multicultural affairs, settlement services and immigration and border-related functions, working together to keep Australia safe.

29/07/2025

0323 CYKIAE
What’s Your Purpose, Your Meaning – A Surprising Present for the Sick

Are You Gonna Go My Way - Lenny Kravitz.
Opposite Tables - John Denver.
Best Friend - Johnny Cash
A Lot of Soul - Bobby Bare.
You Got the Love - Candi Station.
Raging Sea - Michael W Smith.
Ballad of John and Yoko – John Lennon

2pm today, don't miss it!
www.cairnsfm891.org.au
or stream at
https://radio1AK2.shoutcast.net.au:2020/public/8008
or download the App!
Also available as a podcast.

28/07/2025

The Department of Home Affairs invites you to attend an online information session hosted by the Immigration Status Resolution team. The Immigration Status Resolution Team is broadening its engagement across Australia to better reach those who need assistance from the Immigration Status Resolution Service.

The sessions will seek input and feedback from community leaders on how best to effectively engage with their communities, and provide information on:

• the role of the Home Affairs’ Immigration Status Resolution Service;
• why the support of community leaders is so important; and
• how we intend to continue to engage with community leaders going forward.

What is Status Resolution?
The Immigration Status Resolution Service assists non-citizens who have become unlawful or who hold a Bridging Visa E, to regularise their immigration status while they await the outcome of a substantive visa application or make plans to depart Australia. The team can also connect individuals to other programs and organisations that can assist individuals to return home voluntarily if they so choose.

Session 1:
When: Tuesday 5 August 2025 from 5.30pm (AEDT)
Where: Online (link below)
Microsoft Teams Need help?
Join the meeting now
Meeting ID: 467 789 114 071 6
Passcode: Km9WT2os

Session 2:
When: Wednesday 6 August 2025 from 7.00pm (AEDT)
Where: Online (link below)

Microsoft Teams Need help?
Join the meeting now
Meeting ID: 490 921 898 204 4
Passcode: qm9qd3Q9

Department of Home Affairs

27/07/2025

A powerful partnership between JCU and QIMR

James Cook University will partner with fellow research powerhouse QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute to leverage their combined strengths and advance research and health outcomes.

The two institutions this week signed a formal Strategic Partnership Agreement to explore opportunities for collaboration across tropical health and medicine, and other areas of mutual interest.

The landmark agreement will lead to collaboration on medical research, clinical trials, workforce development, regional healthcare innovation, medical manufacturing and more.

JCU’s Deputy Vice Chancellor Research Professor Jenny Seddon said she’s excited to see this partnership leverage the complementary strengths of both organisations, to support the university’s goal of creating a brighter future for life in the Tropics and beyond.

“Our research focuses on advancing health and well-being for people in Northern Australia and the broader Tropics by addressing key challenges in health and health care,” Prof Seddon said.

“By partnering with a leading medical research institute like QIMR, we can benefit from joint funding and opportunities for researcher engagement to extend JCU’s critical research and accelerate health solutions reaching our communities.

“JCU’s Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine (AITHM) has world-leading research activities in many of these key areas, including diseases carried by mosquitoes, melioidosis, tuberculosis and vaccine development.

“Working with QIMR’s 1000 plus scientists and professional staff can help us to transform innovative ideas into lifesaving health outcomes.”

Prof Seddon and QIMR Director, Prof Fabienne Mackay signed the agreement on JCU’s Bebegu Yumba Campus in Townsville on Monday, with both parties excited at the opportunities ahead.

QIMR Berghofer’s Director and CEO, Professor Fabienne Mackay said this partnership is a valuable opportunity to harness the world-class expertise of both institutions.

“By combining QIMR Berghofer’s strengths in translational health research with JCU’s deep local expertise in tropical medicine, we can accelerate the development of innovative treatments, diagnostics, and prevention strategies,” Prof Mackay said.

JCU: James Cook University, Australia

27/07/2025

Credits Film Club

26/07/2025

End Credits Film Club

26/07/2025

JOIN LA FESTA - FOGARTY PARK from 10am to 10pm. 🥳

https://cairnsitalianfestival.com.au/events/la-festa-food-wine-2025/

Italian Festival

Eat, drink and be Italian! La Festa is the centerpiece of the Cairns Italian Festival, a joyous celebration of Italian culture, cuisine, and community spirit. This lively event features authentic Italian food, live music, cultural performances, and fun activities for all ages, creating a vibrant atm...

25/07/2025

AMA welcomes report showing teenage va**ng has ‘turned a corner’ in Australia

The Australian Medical Association has welcomed new data showing a significant decline in va**ng rates among Australian teenagers, describing the findings as a “turning point in youth health” and a testament to the power of strong policy, education, and community awareness.

Data released by Health Minister Mark Butler on Wednesday shows va**ng rates among children aged 14–17 years have fallen from 17.5 per cent at the start of 2023 to 14.6 per cent in April this year.

The figures are drawn from the Cancer Council’s latest Generation V**e research, which is considered the most comprehensive survey on va**ng in Australia. The “eighth wave” of data includes responses from about 3,000 young people and shows a broader decline in va**ng across all age groups.

AMA Vice President Associate Professor Julian Rait described the findings as “deeply encouraging”.

“We’re witnessing a real shift in behaviour and attitudes, and these results mark a significant step forward in protecting young Australians from the harms of va**ng,” Associate Professor Rait said.

“We’re seeing fewer teens picking up vapes, less curiosity about va**ng, and a growing sense of embarrassment around being a ‘vaper’. That signals a real cultural change — and that’s a win for families, schools, and communities.”

Among the most promising findings are:

• Va**ng rates among Australians aged over 15 have reduced by more than a third.
• Va**ng among adults aged 30–59 has halved.
• Exposure to va**ng content on major social media platforms has dramatically decreased.
• Fewer teens are purchasing vapes themselves, and curiosity about va**ng continues to decline — with fewer than one-third expressing any interest in va**ng.

“The message is getting through,” Associate Professor Rait said.

“Teens are telling us va**ng is no longer seen as cool or aspirational; that it’s not something ‘everyone does’ anymore. It’s a turning point in how young Australians view va**ng — and a major stride for public health.”

The AMA reaffirmed its commitment to supporting evidence-based strategies to reduce youth va**ng and smoking, and called for continued vigilance as new products and marketing tactics emerge.

“This is not the time to take our foot off the pedal,” Associate Professor Rait said.

“We’ve made significant progress, but we must keep pushing forward to protect the health of the next generation.”

Australian Medical Association