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Living in Cairns Volume 2, 28 May 2015

From the Mayor...

Yesterday, we were able to provide the good news that there won't be any increase to Council’s fees and charges next financial year and that we will be removing the credit card surcharge.

Credit cards, for many, are the most efficient and convenient payment method. To remove the surcharge helps us to better meet the needs of our residents and ratepayers.

Three years of solid financial management by the organisation has led us to a strong position where we can confidently embark on major infrastructure projects. Among others, I look forward to the start of the Shields Street Heart project in October and the completion of the Chinese Friendship Gardens later this year. Tobruk Pool is also making excellent progress and will be completed in the next budget cycle. And there will be some more big announcements in the very near future, so stay tuned!

Mayor Bob Manning
 
 

to remove the surcharge helps us to better meet the needs of our residents and ratepayers
 
 
 

Join the ECOfiesta

Cairns will "roll out the green carpet" in a celebration of all things sustainable at the inaugural Cairns ECOfiesta this Sunday, 31 May at the Cairns Cruise Liner It's a free community festival combining environmentally-friendly products and sustainable living ideas with fun, fashion, food and entertainment – a one-stop-shop for eco-inspiration.

More than 80 exhibitors will showcase products and services to help residents save on energy and water bills, reduce waste and make the most of our tropical lifestyle. Also music, fashion, cooking, circus buskers, kids' activities and team events, plus loads of great prizes to win.

This will be just one of more than 40 events taking place across the region for ECOweek, which runs from 29 May to 7 June. Many events require bookings, so get it quick. See what's on
 
 

New  look for Shields Street

Creation of an urban park, public art showcasing Indigenous culture and contemporary lighting will be highlights in an overhaul of Shields Street to start later this year.

The Shields Street Heart is the second phase of the City Centre Alive program, which aims to revitalise the Cairns CBD through pedestrian-friendly, tropical urban design. Landscaping will be inspired by the surrounding rainforest and bring green, shady walkways and turfed mounds. By night, the street will come to life with coloured light displays.

The upgrade will be staged over two years, starting this October. The section of Shields Street between Grafton and Lake streets to be first in line for the refurbishment. Stage 1 is due for completion in March 2016, in time for the peak tourist season. Stage 2 will extend the project from Lake Street to the Cairns Esplanade, with a scheduled start date of October 2016. Read more
 
 

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Coming up...
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Credit card surcharge scrapped

There will be no increase to Council's fees and charges when the new financial year dawns on 1 July and the credit card surcharge will be removed from all transactions.

The Fees and Charges schedule was tabled at yesterday's Ordinary Meeting and will come into effect with the 2015-16 Budget, which is due to be handed down on 29 June.

Council has chosen to absorb costs associated with credit card transactions, as it is an efficient and convenient payment method for both the customer and for Council. Read more
 
 

Countdown to Adventure Fest

The Cairns Airport Adventure Festival starts on 7 June, with a host of challenging sporting event culminating with the prestigious Ironman Cairns. Road closures and changed traffic conditions will apply during the festival around Cairns, the Northern Beaches and Port Douglas. See details on our website
 
 
 

Masters Games

Registrations are now open for the 2015 Great Barrier Reef Masters Games, to be held in Cairns in August. Whether you are a team or individual athlete, avoid disappointment and book now while the early bird rate is available (ends 30 June). Registration for both athletes and non-playing officials and supporters includes an official Games pack along with entry access to all official social functions.
 
 

Mayor's golf day success

A big thanks to everyone who took part in the 2015 Mayor's Charity Golf Day earlier this month. With your help, we managed to raise about $6000 for the Salvation Army. If you haven't seen the photo gallery yet, check it out on our Facebook page.
 
 
 

Cultural Diversity Awards

Nominations are now open in an awards program that celebrates the cultural diversity of the Cairns region. The Cultural Diversity Awards highlight the actions by individuals and organisations that promote positive community interaction and resilience. More information on the awards and how to submit a nomination are available on Council's website. Nominations close on 30 June.
 
 
 
Cairns Regional Council
119 - 145 Spence St, Cairns
PO Box 359 
Cairns Q 4870
Cairns: +61 7 4044 304
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