A weekly re-cap of the events that have made news in Cairns over the past week.

Monday July 1, 2002 72nd Edition

Cairns has joined the rest of the world in a sporting frenzy with the World Cup being the main focus of all news and most coffee shop discussions in the past week. Adding to this is the State of Origin Rugby League clash adding to the sporting atmosphere. As a nation that absolutely loves its sport, it only stands to reason that some weeks the local news will be filled with sporting related news.

Brazil and German tourists come out in numbers
Cairns attracts a lot of German tourists and they were out in force for the soccer World Cup finals. Whilst there are far fewer Brazilian tourists visiting Cairns, those that were out celebrated loud and long. Most of the main clubs and bars featured large screens to allow patrons to watch the match in comfort and with friends. The soccer frenzy has now carried over to the streets and parks of Cairns with soccer balls being seen in greater numbers than ever before in this traditionally rugby league orientated city.

Queensland retains the State of Origin Cup
In what has been described as one of the best State of Origin matches ever, both teams battled away for 80 minutes, finally settling at an 18 all draw. As Queensland one the Cup last year, the draw means that they retain it until next year's rematch. The final played was played at Stadium Australia in Sydney, with an almost capacity crowd.

Wallaby's teach the French a lesson
The third and by no means the final significant sporting event that was eagerly watched throughout Cairns was the Rugby Union match between the Australian and French teams. The Wallaby's convincingly won this match, however there were a few moments when the French team started to shine, but they could not follow through.

Japanese culture celebrated during Japan Week
The people of Cairns get the opportunity to experience the Japanese lifestyle each year with during Japan Week. Ms Rebecca Littlewood, Japan Week
Co-Coordinator explained "the event lets the Australians have a taste of traditional Japanese cultures they don't normally see. They have probably heard of karate but things like Japanese flower arranging they might not have been seen before". Money raised during Japan Week is used to send Cairns high school students on exchange trips to Japan.

Record price for Port Douglas property
A plain, simple beachfront property is expected to be sold for a record $1 million in Port Douglas later this month. Described as a shack, the sale is reflecting the buoyancy of the Port Douglas property market. The low set house is described as being "no prize" but the view is as good at it gets. The property is one of a limited number sitting on absolute beachfront at the world famous Four Mile Beach.

Giant bird strolls the streets
Cairns is one of the few remaining habitats for the Cassowary, a large (up to 2 metres) and heavy (up to 60 kg) flightless bird that lives in the rainforest of north Queensland. Last week one of the birds was seen walking through a Cairns suburb, casually pecking around for food. There are only an estimated 1200 Cassowary's left in the wild, generally in the more remote areas, making this a rare treat for those people lucky enough to see the bird.

Festival Cairns takes shape
The new look Festival Cairns is only about three months and preparations are well underway to make this the event bigger and brighter than the old format, Reef Festival. Festival Cairns will incorporate the Spring Racing Carnival, Street Parade, Gold Tournament, Beach Party and numerous other celebrations and events, all aimed at showcasing life in Cairns.