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    <title>Cairns News</title>
    <link>http://www.cairnsinfo.com//cairns-accommodation/Absolute Beachfront/1626/news</link>
    <description>Latest tourism news for Cairns and surrounding areas direct from the industry.</description>
    <copyright>Copyright 2008 Travstar.com Pty Ltd. All rights reserved.</copyright>    
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        <title>Chef's search for local produce</title>
        <link>http://www.cairnsinfo.com//cairns-accommodation/Absolute Beachfront/1626/news#3450</link>
        <description><![CDATA[
        A recent Chefs Tour of the Cassowary Coast saw 16 chefs from Tropical North Queenslands top restaurants searching for great local food products. The full-day tour travelled from Cairns to Silkwood visiting an organic vanilla plantation, bio-dynamic poultry farm, exotic fruit orchard, tea plantation, pepper and spice farm, eco banana plantation, winery and various other properties. 
The chefs tour is part of a project initiated by Advance Cairns, and funded by the Queensland Government Department of Education Economic Development &amp;amp; Innovation, to raise awareness of the diversity of the TNQ regions food and get more local produce onto menus in restaurants in Cairns, Palm Cove and Port Douglas.        ]]></description>
        <pubDate>Wednesday, February 24 2010</pubDate>
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        <title>Many reasons to visit FNQ in Green Season!</title>
        <link>http://www.cairnsinfo.com//cairns-accommodation/Absolute Beachfront/1626/news#3398</link>
        <description><![CDATA[
        As locals, we all know that the weather is beautiful here year round and when the rain comes we all love it!!&amp;nbsp; Our rainforest animals all wander about, our rainforests come alive and our nights are a symphony of frog songs.&amp;nbsp; Rivers and waterfalls go wild and life is great!Sure, there may be a slightly higher chance of rain but it's fun wandering around in the warm rain.&amp;nbsp; Take yourself out of your comfort zone!
People have called me to tell me about the size of the raindrops that bounced off the pavement.&amp;nbsp; It creates a memorable experience and a sense of adventure. You have never experienced rain until you experience it in the wet tropics and hey World Heritage Rainforest needs torrential rain to keep it growing! We need our beautiful rainforests to remain lush and alive.
Staying in the rainforest in wet weather is brilliant!&amp;nbsp; It's absolutely beautiful, not to mention the numerous waterfalls that appear during this time.
All activities take place year round in FNQ, we love playing in the rain!

Activities such as ATV &amp;amp; Bungy are great fun!
Spectacular heli rides over the Barron Falls.
View the clouds and mist as you journey on the Skyrail Cableway to Kuranda.
Awesome rafting adventures on the Barron and Tully River.
Great accommodation &amp;amp; tour deals to be had!
Despite the travel information you may reading in planning your holiday to Far North Queensland, not every day is a wet weather day. We have some beautiful days and quite often the rain only passes through at night, which is a relief to calm the humidity.
This time of year is the best time to snap up some superb tour and accommodation deals, so what are you waiting for?!        ]]></description>
        <pubDate>Friday, February 05 2010</pubDate>
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        <title>Queensland Scoops National Awards</title>
        <link>http://www.cairnsinfo.com//cairns-accommodation/Absolute Beachfront/1626/news#2836</link>
        <description><![CDATA[
        Tropical North Queensland was recently crowned as the region offering Queenslands best travel experiences. Securing the Sunshine States only wins in Australias 20 Best Experiences Awards; four local businesses have been counted among the nations best of the best.
Although yet another accolade for Daintree Eco Lodge &amp;amp; Spa will be of no surprise to anyone who likes being pampered, relative newcomers Jungle Surf Canopy Tours (in the Daintree) represented emerging demand by environmentally-aware travellers for authentic adventure experiences.
A favourite among the international dive community is the Great Barrier Reefs Cod Hole. Mike Ball Dive Expeditions dive trips to the popular site secured a win as Australias Best Dive Experience.
The fourth winner from the region was Cairns Tropical Zoo, who even trumped Australia Zoo when it came to the nations wildlife park. 
This is the second year that global magazine Travelling in Australia has staged the awards and nominations flooded in for each of the 20 categories. Although competition among the States was fierce, Queensland companies shone brightly when it came to securing Runners Up placements as well. 
Awards were secured by: Guurrbi Tours (Indigenous), Wilderness Wanders and Back Country Bliss Adventures (New Product), Palm Cove and Tropical North Queensland (Destination), Qualia on Hamilton Island (Island), Reef Encounter (Cruise), Whitsunday Sailing Adventures (Backpacker), Rainforest Habitat (Theme Park/ Wildlife Park), Wrotham Park Lodge (Outback), Reef to Outback Drive (Touring Route), Floating Images Hot Air Balloon Flights (Air).
The success of Tropical North Queensland operators in this years event shows how one of Australias most mature tourism destinations has managed to stay focussed on what travellers want, said Chantal Dunbar, Editor of Travelling in Australia Magazine. Rather than resting on their laurels, the region has developed an increasing number of products that demonstrate a commitment to both environmental and cultural sustainability. This is where Australias future lies as our nature-based and Indigenous experiences cannot be replicated by other countries.
Unlike other awards run by travel magazines, Australias 20 Best Experiences were determined by an international panel of Premier Aussie Specialist travel agents. Theyve been treated to more plush digs and fancy meals than most of us would ever dare dream of and as such, are in a unique position to say what each State has to offer.        ]]></description>
        <pubDate>Friday, August 28 2009</pubDate>
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        <title>Dengue Facts</title>
        <link>http://www.cairnsinfo.com//cairns-accommodation/Absolute Beachfront/1626/news#2335</link>
        <description><![CDATA[
        In Australia, dengue only occurs in north Queensland. Dengue is not endemic (ie. naturally occurring in north Queensland). The dengue mosquito is common in north Queensland and outbreaks can occur when the virus is transmitted to the local mosquito population in north Queensland by infected international travellers or residents returning home from overseas.
The only precaution visitors need to take is to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes. In particular, visitors should:

wear insect repellent, particularly during the day when the dengue mosquito is most active
wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing
use flying insect spray to kill any mosquitoes in rooms
use mosquito coils or plug-in insecticide mats in rooms.
The dengue virus can be easily introduced by dengue-infected visitors to north Queensland from countries where dengue fever occurs.
Since dengue fever mosquitoes breed in urban environments, the usual tourist activities in north Queensland such as reef and rainforest trips carry a low risk. The risk can be further minimised by staying in screened or air-conditioned accommodation.
Key Facts for visitors to Cairns:-

There are no dengue mosquitoes on the Great Barrier Reef or in the Daintree Rainforest  the major tourist destinations of Tropical North Queensland.&amp;nbsp; However Cairns has seen an increase cases of dengue fever this green season.
Dengue fever incubates in stagnant water in suburban backyards in low-lying residential areas of Cairns that are well away from the CBD, hotels, restaurants and other main tourist spots.
The defense against mosquito bites is insect repellant.
In the highly unlikely event that a tourist should contract dengue fever, Cairns Base Hospital is a first-class medical facility staffed by experts in dengue treatment.
Fur further information on Dengue Fever please click here        ]]></description>
        <pubDate>Friday, February 13 2009</pubDate>
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        <title>The Wet Season</title>
        <link>http://www.cairnsinfo.com//cairns-accommodation/Absolute Beachfront/1626/news#2325</link>
        <description><![CDATA[
        The wet season is roughly between December and April each year. The majority of North Queensland residents welcome this time of year. The rivers, creeks and waterfalls are in their prime and the rainforest comes alive. When the first heavy rain hits Cairns City you can see the steam rise from the concrete and bitumen roads as it cools and cleans the streets. 
Just because it's raining in or around Cairns doesn't mean the sun won't be shining at the Great Barrier Reef. You may find the sun is shining brightly and the wind is so low that you have chosen the perfect day for snorkeling and diving on the Barrier Reef.If you happen to visit Cairns while a low is crossing the coast though, you will see the rain come down in all its glory, the sun will disappear for a few days and you may have to reschedule your Reef trip until it passes.
Traditionally the wet season means low visitor numbers to our region. North Queensland has a lot to offer this time of year. Below I have listed 5 reasons to visit during the wet season!:
Low Season Pricing:Because of the low visitor numbers accommodation pricing drops and there are are always huge savings to be made.&amp;nbsp;No Crowds:In the peak of July and August, as well as paying full price for everything you may find it difficult to find the ideal accommodation or day trips for your dates even if you do book in advance. Because everything fills up so quickly (sometimes popular properties will fill up months in advance) people often end up compromising and won't end up with their ideal package. Although we still recommend you book at least 3 weeks in advance the Low Season will give you many more options and flexibility to re-arrange your itinerary.
The Rainforest:This is the ideal time to see the Rainforest come alive either on a Self drive expedition or one of the fantastic Rainforest Day Trips on offer to the daintree or Southern tablelands.
Low Wind and Water Clarity:With the low winds comes water clarity on the Barrier Reef. If you have been to the reef on a day trip where the water is like glass you will know what a difference it makes. Some of the most perfect days on the reef are during the wet season.
Waterfalls &amp;amp; Fresh Water Swimming:For me this is one of the most over looked activities available in North Queensland. Spending a hot day at one of our wonderful swimming holes is an activity not to be missed. There are many to choose from and Day Trips such as Uncle Brians - Fun Falls &amp;amp; Forest generate some of the very best feedback we hear.
Activities for Rainy Days:-
If it's raining outside your Cairns accommodation it doesn't mean you have to stay put and wait for the sun to come out. There are quite a few activities which are actually enhanced by the wet season. Below I have listed a few ideas:

Visit Kuranda Markets by Skyrail &amp;amp; Train
White Water Rafting on the Tully River
Visit the Great Barrier Reef (&amp;nbsp;you're going to get wet anyway!&amp;nbsp;)
Visit the rainforest
Visit our beautiful waterfalls
Swim at Crystal Cascades
Go White water rafting
Go ATV riding
Browse boutiques
Meet the locals at the brewery
Take a cooking class
Do some Yoga
Go Salsa dancing at Casa de Meze
Blissful spa treatments 
Cable Ski Park
Go Bungy Jumping
Take a Food Trail tour
Have a cocktail on the verandah
Stay in bed for the day
Go Jungle surfing
Take a drive through stunning moutain scenery
Visit the Rainforest Dome        ]]></description>
        <pubDate>Thursday, February 12 2009</pubDate>
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        <title>Cairns Open For Business!</title>
        <link>http://www.cairnsinfo.com//cairns-accommodation/Absolute Beachfront/1626/news#2313</link>
        <description><![CDATA[
        There is no flooding in Cairns - the flooding is 3 hours drive south of Cairns. Currently the weather is overcast with some showers which is nothing unusual for this time of year.Please visit our Live Webcam! to take a look at todays weather.
Heres the latest information on weather conditions and tourism operations in Cairns brought to you by Tourism Tropical North Queensland:-

Cairns is open for business. More than 650 day tours operated today showing visitors the Tropical North Queensland rainforest, hinterland and reef.
Its business as usual for Cairns - the reef boats are operating along with Skyrail and the Kuranda Scenic Rail. Day trippers are enjoying the spectacular waterfalls, lush rainforests and exciting white water rapids Tropical North Queenslands green season is famous for.
While floods and a heat wave savage other parts of the country, Cairns is the cool place to be at the moment with average daily temperatures of 30 degrees Celsius about 10 degrees cooler than those being experienced in southern states.
The Bureau of Meteorology reports the tropical low pressure system in the Coral Sea is not influencing Queensland's weather. It predicts there may be some heavy rainfall along the coast between Townsville and Mackay over the weekend as the low drifts back towards the coast.
According to road reports, on the morning of Friday February 6 the Bruce Highway was closed about 200km south of Cairns, but the rest of the highway was open to Cairns as was the Captain Cook Highway to the north of Cairns.
The major touring routes of the Tropical Highlands are flood-free, vehicles can access Cooktown via the inland road, Port Douglas is unaffected by the weather and Mission Beach had only minimal damage to vegetation from Cyclone Charlotte which dumped the heavy rains further south this week.
Cairns Airport is fully operational with 34,171 seats per week into the city on domestic routes. The airlines are offering some fantastic specials at the moment.
TTNQ is not the only organisation with confidence in the region. Capacity into the city increased by 1062 seats only this week with the addition of Jetstars new services from both Perth and the Gold Coast three times a week.- Rob Giason, Tourism Tropical North Queensland CEO        ]]></description>
        <pubDate>Monday, February 09 2009</pubDate>
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        <title>Our Wonderful Weather!</title>
        <link>http://www.cairnsinfo.com//cairns-accommodation/Absolute Beachfront/1626/news#2225</link>
        <description><![CDATA[
        Far north residents woke to blue skies on Tuesday morning, a huge contrast from the rain we received the day prior. The heavy rain which hit Cairns&amp;nbsp;on Monday&amp;nbsp;has moved south. Cairns received 139mm of rain in 21 hours, Bellenden Ker received the Far North Queensland region's most rain with 372mm.
&amp;nbsp;
&quot;We are a tropical destination, rain is what makes it special,&quot; said Tourism Tropical North Queensland chief Rob Giason. &quot;It's intriguing to have so much rain in a few hours and then to see it disappear so quickly is phenomenal.&quot;
&amp;nbsp;
Skyrail general manager Max Shepherd said 1800 tourists travelled up to Kuranda Range to witness the Barron River Falls in flood. &quot;We've got to get the message out there 'we're well and truly open for business'. &quot;It's lush, green, fresh, moist, waterfall at its best ... it is really the best time of the year to visit. &quot;The falls are thundering and shaking the ground and creating its own cloud, and just two hours up the road the waterfall circuit of the Tablelands is at its peak.&amp;nbsp; &quot;It's that true tropical rainforest experience.&quot;Click Here for&amp;nbsp;Cairns Live Webcam!         ]]></description>
        <pubDate>Thursday, January 15 2009</pubDate>
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        <title>Blue Sky Brews in Cairns</title>
        <link>http://www.cairnsinfo.com//cairns-accommodation/Absolute Beachfront/1626/news#1743</link>
        <description><![CDATA[
        Is a Reef Blonde really low carb? Youll have to do a tour of Cairns new Blue Sky Brewery to discover the answer to that one! Opened in August this year, the brewery is located in the heart of Cairns on Lake Street. Their six premium beers created onsite are preservative free and made using the purest of Cairns waters from Copperloade Dam. Regular brewery tours take guests inside the brew house workings to sample hops and see the great copper stills at work. Outside in the restaurant and bar theres a wide choice of beers and wine, plus a menu that highlights some of Cairns best produce including local scallops, Black Angus beef from the Atherton Tableland and local fish battered with Blue Sky beer- delish! And yes - Reef Blonde is not just another blonde joke, it really is low carb. More information: www.blueskybrewery.com.au         ]]></description>
        <pubDate>Wednesday, October 22 2008</pubDate>
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        <title>Postcards from the Team!</title>
        <link>http://www.cairnsinfo.com//cairns-accommodation/Absolute Beachfront/1626/news#1135</link>
        <description><![CDATA[
        Just returned from a romantic weekend in the Tablelands. Winter is a great time stay in the Cairns Highlands as it is one of the few area that offer accommodation with open fireplaces, potbelly stove and spa baths!Immensly enjoyed our stay at Rosegums, had the fire going all day, went for a walk down to the creek through fields and rainforest, beautiful! and no other person in sight! Relaxed&amp;nbsp; in the large spa bath, watch DVD's and didn't do much at all apart from keeping the fire going!        ]]></description>
        <pubDate>Friday, July 18 2008</pubDate>
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        <title>FREE SEMI SUB TOURS!</title>
        <link>http://www.cairnsinfo.com//cairns-accommodation/Absolute Beachfront/1626/news#1117</link>
        <description><![CDATA[
        

The semi submersible tours allow you to view the spectacular coral formations and the masses of brilliantly coloured fish without getting wet. A full reef commentary and fish feeding is provided, along with the specially designed scenic reef excursion. The semi sub travels below the water level to enable you a diver's view of the best parts of the Great Barrier Reef. 

Semi-submersible options will not need to be pre-booked. Passsengers will arrange their tour onboard the boat on the day of travel.
To view further details on the Osprey outer barrier reef cruise please click here.&amp;nbsp;        ]]></description>
        <pubDate>Tuesday, July 15 2008</pubDate>
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        <title>Fuel Levy</title>
        <link>http://www.cairnsinfo.com//cairns-accommodation/Absolute Beachfront/1626/news#1082</link>
        <description><![CDATA[
        Due to the huge increase in the cost of fuel many tour operators have had to introduce a fuel levy as they can no longer absorb these costs into their current pricing. Unfortunately it is not feasible to build the fuel levy into the ticket price as many pricing structures are set up to two years in advance.
When the first fuel levies were introduced in August 2006 the cost of fuel was $1.20 per litre. Today the fuel price has increased to $1.88 per litre.&amp;nbsp; Like the airlines, fuel represents a major and unavoidable part of daily operating costs. 
Fuel levies are a 'pay on day' requirement direct to the tour operator. Not all tour operators have imposed the levy as yet, please check the Extras section in the rates table to see if a levy applies or enquire for a quote from one of our friendly travel consultants.
We apologise for this mandatory levy but trust that you appreciate the current fuel price crisis is out of operators control. We live in hope the price of fuel may one day decrease in which case the levy can be removed.        ]]></description>
        <pubDate>Thursday, July 10 2008</pubDate>
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        <title>Festival Cairns 2008</title>
        <link>http://www.cairnsinfo.com//cairns-accommodation/Absolute Beachfront/1626/news#1070</link>
        <description><![CDATA[
        FESTIVAL CAIRNS 2008 THEME ANNOUNCED 
The love theme for Festival Cairns 07 will live on with confirmation it is being retained in 2008, albeit expanded to celebrate the city and its rather special relationship with the environment. 
The event program, which kids off on Wednesday 27 August and runs for 25 days, will feature a choice of 48 free and ticketed events spanning music, art, sport, entertainment and culture. 
Highlights at this years event include: Ergon Energys Busking Festival, Cairns Amateurs Spring Racing Carnival, Carnival on Collins Fathers Day Festival, QLD cup NBL Tournament, Food, Wine and all that Jazz  all culminating in the finale Parade of Lights grand parade procession, now in its 41st year. 
For further information please visit www.festivalcairns.com.au        ]]></description>
        <pubDate>Wednesday, July 02 2008</pubDate>
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        <title>Lagoon Now Open!</title>
        <link>http://www.cairnsinfo.com//cairns-accommodation/Absolute Beachfront/1626/news#1071</link>
        <description><![CDATA[
        The Cairns Esplanade lagoon is once again ready for swimming - just in time for the school holidays.
Maintenance work on the 4000 square metre lagoon has been completed right on schedule.
The lagoon is looking wonderful and also features a new sandy bottom on one side, and replenished beach.
Also on hand to help provide a boost for the school holiday entertainment program presented by Cairns Regional Council is a giant swing attraction adjacent to the lagoon area.        ]]></description>
        <pubDate>Wednesday, July 02 2008</pubDate>
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        <title>Top Coffee Crop</title>
        <link>http://www.cairnsinfo.com//cairns-accommodation/Absolute Beachfront/1626/news#1057</link>
        <description><![CDATA[
        Coffee plantation owners at Mareeba in Tropical North Queensland expect their best ever harvest this year making the self-drive Mareeba Coffee Trail an even more attractive option for visitors. 
The regions oldest coffee estate, Skybury Coffee, is currently harvesting a crop which is anticipated to top 50 tonnes. Managing director Ian MacLaughlin, who is also chairman of the Australian Coffee Growers Association, says this years regional yield will be the best ever and predicts up to a 200 tonne harvest for the entire Mareeba region. Last years Mareeba coffee harvest was almost 100 tonnes. 
The coffee harvesting period is June/July and approximately 25 percent of the harvested coffee will be sold internationally to coffee distributors and wholesalers in Europe and the USA. 
There are regular day tours which visit Skybury Coffee Plantation, to view further details of the Tropical Horizons Kuranda &amp;amp; Highlands tour&amp;nbsp;including lunch at Skybury please click here        ]]></description>
        <pubDate>Friday, June 27 2008</pubDate>
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        <title>Team Talkback</title>
        <link>http://www.cairnsinfo.com//cairns-accommodation/Absolute Beachfront/1626/news#998</link>
        <description><![CDATA[
        Wheres your favourite place in the Far North? Bedarra Island without question.
Why do you love it? It is the total escape.&amp;nbsp; Completely private, pristine waters, tropical hibiscus lined paths, perfect beach, interesting rock formations, breath taking views!&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp; &amp;nbsp;Wheres your favourite place to eat?&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp; Nu Nu's at Palm Cove&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp; Nautilus restaurant in Port Douglas&amp;nbsp;Where do you like to go shopping?&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp; Port Douglas, Macrossan St - Mermaids&amp;nbsp; Cairns, Grafton St - Lime Homeware and Tea Lily&amp;nbsp; The weekend Rustys markets on Grafton St for my vegetables and fresh foods. &amp;nbsp;Whats your ideal weekend?&amp;nbsp; Wrotham Park Lodge was an unbelievable experience and I would love to take my husband there to show him how amazing it is.&amp;nbsp; Flying into a dirt airstrip in the outback and seeing the working cattle station.&amp;nbsp; The setting with the sun changing the landscape and the architecture as well as the food and wine were out of this world.&amp;nbsp; 
The service was so professional but very easy going, a little like staying with friends except you were surrounded with all of the extra special touches that made this one of the most memorable weekends ever for me.&amp;nbsp; Now I want to book out the whole lodge and stay there with a group of friends.&amp;nbsp; The perfect location for a long lunch on a special occassion.&amp;nbsp;         ]]></description>
        <pubDate>Friday, June 06 2008</pubDate>
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        <title>Regional News!</title>
        <link>http://www.cairnsinfo.com//cairns-accommodation/Absolute Beachfront/1626/news#953</link>
        <description><![CDATA[
        Fun, free activities for all at Cairns Esplanade during Lagoon temporary closure 
The Esplanade Lagoon will be closed for scheduled maintenance from 19 May 2008 for up to six weeks. The Lagoon will be drained to enable essential repair works on the pool surface. A host of other fun, free activities are on offer on the Esplanade during the Lagoon closure period, so why not:

bring the kids to Muddys playground 
try out the world class skatepark and beach volleyball court 
take a stroll along the stunning waterfront boardwalk 
have a BBQ or picnic in the parklands 
enjoy live entertainment across the precinct 
Foreshore Fridays light up the Esplanade 7pm-9pm on Fridays, with entertainment for the whole family - drumming workshops, Bree and the Bopstars Karoke, and Marks Aussie Animal show.
On Saturdays from 8am to 5pm, the Cairns Esplanade comes alive with market day and live bands 11am-2pm and 3pm-6pm.
The Esplanade's popular Fun Free Fitness program will continue during the lagoon closure period, with 12 free activities every week (excluding aqua aerobics). Get fit, have fun and do it for free!        ]]></description>
        <pubDate>Tuesday, May 27 2008</pubDate>
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        <title>Regional News!</title>
        <link>http://www.cairnsinfo.com//cairns-accommodation/Absolute Beachfront/1626/news#948</link>
        <description><![CDATA[
        The weather is changing and we are beginning to feel a nip in the air. Early mornings sees most of our Zookeepers arriving in jumpers while the park has been covered in a blanket of fog until 9.00am most mornings.
Work is almost complete on our Zulu Bar, which will be used for our new dining experience Dinner on the Edge. Guests will have welcome drinks and canapés on the deck of the Zulu Bar overlooking our large lion enclosure. They are then escorted into an airlock inside our lion enclosure where a chef will prepare dinner, all under the gaze of our three large male lions. If thats not enough excitement, just as dinner is served, we will release the largest pride of lions in Australasia. Fifteen lions will come pounding towards the airlock where their dinner is also waiting (on the outside, of course!) Listen to the roar of the lions as you complete your dinner with the Pride.This is truly a unique experience. Dinner on the Edge commences 1st June 2008.        ]]></description>
        <pubDate>Friday, May 23 2008</pubDate>
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        <title>Reef Report</title>
        <link>http://www.cairnsinfo.com//cairns-accommodation/Absolute Beachfront/1626/news#944</link>
        <description><![CDATA[
        What another great day we had at Marine World! The marine biologist conducted a fish feed at the northern end of Marine World. The biologist identified all the fish species and explained about their natural habits. The Semi Sub glided over colourful corals, tropical reef fish and an array of garden eels, whilst a school of spinner dolphins played along side the vessel. The water clarity was brilliant and all the guests could see the marine life on the bottom of the ocean. The divers spotted a large green turtle, moray eel and a magnificent lion fish; they could also hear the spinner dolphins at the pinnacles. The guests snorkelling were amazed at the giant clams, neon damsels, brightly coloured parrot fish, angel fish and surgeon fish. Water Temperature: 26 CUnderwater Visibility:&amp;nbsp; 20 metres
3 DAY OUTLOOKAs per Bureau of Meteorology-Cooktown to Cardwell at 3pm
Wednesday:&amp;nbsp;S/SE winds 10-15 knotsThursday:&amp;nbsp;S/SE winds 10-15 knots Friday:&amp;nbsp;S/SE winds 10-15 knots        ]]></description>
        <pubDate>Thursday, May 22 2008</pubDate>
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        <title>Reef Report</title>
        <link>http://www.cairnsinfo.com//cairns-accommodation/Absolute Beachfront/1626/news#924</link>
        <description><![CDATA[
        Good reef conditions continued today at Marine World with sunny skies and an excellent 20m underwater visibility.&amp;nbsp; 
Our spacious main deck and large upper sundeck is your stable base from which to do as little or much as you like&amp;nbsp; snorkel, dive, take a semi-submersible tour, view fish and corals through our walk-through underwater observatory, grab a birds eye view of the reef on a Scenic Helicopter Flight, relax on the sundeck with a plate of prawns and a glass of chardy. Make sure you keep you energy up with a visit to our delicious hot/cold buffet for lunch, served under the shade on the main deck (includes vegetarian options and seafood!). 
With 5 FULL HOURS at the reef you have the time to do it all!!&amp;nbsp; 
When booking with Reef Magic ask for more information on our wonderful Heli special!!Water Temperature: 26 CUnderwater Visibility:&amp;nbsp; 25 metres3 DAY OUTLOOKAs per Bureau of Meteorology-Cooktown to Cardwell at 3pm
Sunday:&amp;nbsp;S/SW winds 10-15 knotsMonday:&amp;nbsp;S/SE winds 10-15 knots Tuesday:&amp;nbsp;SE winds 10-15 knots        ]]></description>
        <pubDate>Sunday, May 18 2008</pubDate>
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        <title>Reef Report</title>
        <link>http://www.cairnsinfo.com//cairns-accommodation/Absolute Beachfront/1626/news#913</link>
        <description><![CDATA[
        WOW, WHAT A DAY! Is s typical reaction from a guest travelling to the Outer Barrier Reef with Reef Magic to our spacious pontoon Marine World. We spend a full 5hrs at the Moore Reef site so you have all the time to take part in all the activities; snorkel (with guided tours available), dive (intro or certified), visit the Underwater Observatory, enjoy the Fish Feeding Displays, learn lots from our Marine Biology Presentation and marvel at the sites without even getting your feet wet aboard the Semi Sub Tours! What are you waiting for book now to secure your ticket to adventure.* * * * * E X C E L L E N T&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp; R E E F&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp; W E A T H E R * * * * *
When booking with Reef Magic ask for more information on&amp;nbsp;the wonderful Heli special!!Water Temperature: 26 CUnderwater Visibility:&amp;nbsp; 15 metres3 DAY OUTLOOKAs per Bureau of Meteorology-Cooktown to Cardwell at 3pm
Wednesday:&amp;nbsp;SE winds 15-20 knotsThursday:&amp;nbsp;SE winds 15-20 knots Friday:&amp;nbsp;SE winds 15-20 knots        ]]></description>
        <pubDate>Wednesday, May 14 2008</pubDate>
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        <title>Regional News!</title>
        <link>http://www.cairnsinfo.com//cairns-accommodation/Absolute Beachfront/1626/news#914</link>
        <description><![CDATA[
        CAIRNS IS TOPS IN TRAVELERS CHOICE AWARDCongratulations! Cairns has won a 2008 Travelers' Choice Destinations Award in the following categories:
Top 100 World DestinationsTop 25 South Pacific Destinations
Also included were Port Douglas and Cape Tribulation. These awards honor select places that have earned their distinction from those who know them best - millions of real travelers. Winners were determined by a combination of travelers' favorite places and overall popularity.        ]]></description>
        <pubDate>Wednesday, May 14 2008</pubDate>
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    <item>
        <title>Focus on Feedback</title>
        <link>http://www.cairnsinfo.com//cairns-accommodation/Absolute Beachfront/1626/news#884</link>
        <description><![CDATA[
        &quot;Cannot recommend this trip highly enough! The North Johnstone River is untouched and breath-takingly stunning and rafting and camping is the best way to experience this paradise. The rafting guides were awesome, the food was great and the rapids are exhilerating and the helicopter ride to the put-in is amazing. I would have to rate this as one of the best trips I have ever done!&quot; Katie Slee, AustraliaKatie travelled on the North Johnstone Rafting trip on the 2nd May '08. The 4 Day Expedition is rated one of the Top 10 wilderness adventures in the world, and is a once-in-a-lifetime experience! 
With limited frequency of departures, restricted group sizes and stringent National Park permits, the North Johnstone River and surrounding ancient rainforests are preserved for all time, enabling rafters a rare glimpse of a very precious and untouched part of North Queenslands World Heritage Rainforests.Next Departures:
May: 16-19June: 6-9July: 4-7For further details and video on this exciting trip please click here        ]]></description>
        <pubDate>Thursday, May 08 2008</pubDate>
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    <item>
        <title>Team Feedback</title>
        <link>http://www.cairnsinfo.com//cairns-accommodation/Absolute Beachfront/1626/news#888</link>
        <description><![CDATA[
        The travstar team escaped the office last Thursday for a night of adventures at Flames of the Forest...
We were kept guessing as to the whereabouts of our dining location as we took a dirt track off the highway to a special clearing in the rainforest lit up by candles and tiki flares. A huge candelabra and lit up trees added to the mystical atmosphere. We enjoyed a welcome glass of champagne plus really tasty oysters before being surprisingly greeted by a local Indigenous fella who chatted to us very lively in his native language before showing us to our beautiful dining location.

Set beside a flowing creek the location was magic. Candles were lit up along the stream and it was awesome to have this as our backdrop to such a wonderful dinner. The dishes served were out of this world! Pumpkin &amp;amp; wattleseed bush damper, crocodile &amp;amp; mango on coral lettuce, rocket &amp;amp; toasted macadamia nut salad, locally caught tiger prawns with jackfruit remoulade, it was weird but wonderful at the same time!&amp;nbsp; 
During dinner two local Aboriginal brothers Bilgamu (crocodile)&amp;nbsp;and Gurrba (fish)&amp;nbsp;a.k.a Gary and Robert introduced us to some Aboriginal culture with a Dreamtime story about the duck, water rat and platypus. I don't want to give the story away so you'll have to visit Flames of the Forest if you want to hear how the platypus was created. It was a true cultural experience and even more so to be listening to the story in such untouched and significant surroundings. The atmosphere was just beautiful as the lights and power turned off for a few moments so we could enjoy the sounds of the rainforest at night and the peaceful running of the stream nearby.... To view further information about Flames of the Forest please&amp;nbsp;click here
        ]]></description>
        <pubDate>Thursday, May 08 2008</pubDate>
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        <title>Spotlight on Skyrail</title>
        <link>http://www.cairnsinfo.com//cairns-accommodation/Absolute Beachfront/1626/news#867</link>
        <description><![CDATA[
        The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway is a must do for touring option for all visitors to Cairns. Whether you have just a half day or a full day to visit the rainforest, Skyrail can take you deep into the heart of the rainforest in just over an hour.Where is Skyrail located?Skyrails Caravonica Terminal is located 15 minutes north of Cairns city and 50 minutes south of Port Douglas. 
How long is Skyrail?The Skyrail cableway is 7.5 kilometres long and has two rainforest mid-stations. 
How many people does a gondola carry?Each gondola seats up to 6 people (including infants). 
How long does a Skyrail experience take?To maximise your Skyrail experience, allow up to 1½ hours to complete a one-way journey, this includes spending time at the two rainforest mid-stations. Skyrail has two rainforest mid-stations, Red Peak and Barron Falls, which allow you to disembark from the gondola and explore the forest on boardwalks and easy access walkways. Complimentary Ranger guided boardwalk tours operate regularly at Red Peak Station and Barron Falls Station houses a fascinating Rainforest Interpretation Centre and spectacular look-outs. 
Is there much walking involved? You can walk as much or as little as you choose at Skyrails rainforest mid-stations. Red Peak has a 175 metre rainforest boardwalk and there is approximately 400 metres of gentle walkways at Barron Falls Station. 
What if its raining, can I still experience Skyrail and the rainforest?The rainforest is at its best in the rain! Skyrail is spectacular on a fine day and amazing in the wet. Travelling through the mist in your fully enclosed gondola cabin, you will see the rainforest come to life in the rain, and there are complimentary umbrellas available at the mid-stations. 
Do I need to have a certain level of fitness to enjoy Skyrail?No. Skyrail is suitable for, and caters to, people of all ages and abilities. 
Can the Skyrail gondolas accommodate wheelchairs?Yes, Skyrail gondola cabins can accommodate most standard type wheelchairs. However, due to size restrictions and loading requirements, some types of wheelchairs can not be carried on the cableway.
For further information on Kuranda day trips including the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway please click here        ]]></description>
        <pubDate>Wednesday, May 07 2008</pubDate>
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        <title>A Great Reason to Visit</title>
        <link>http://www.cairnsinfo.com//cairns-accommodation/Absolute Beachfront/1626/news#804</link>
        <description><![CDATA[
        Tropical North Queensland is like another world. It's one of those must-do holidays and if you've never seen it, then you're in for a pleasant surprise. It's home to the World Heritage-listed Wet Tropics Rainforests and the magnificent Great Barrier Reef.&amp;nbsp; 
Cairns city is a laid-back, yet cosmopolitan-style escape, offering access to exotic tropical cuisine, shopping, a taste of Aboriginal culture, and a range of adventure touring options. With hundreds of day tours operating out of Cairns each day, you will never be short of something to do. You can learn to snorkel or dive, go white water rafting, reef fishing, or take the bungee jump plunge. Or you can indulge in more laid-back pleasures like floating over the lush rainforest of the Atherton Tablelands in a hot air balloon or teeing off amid swaying palm trees overlooking the Coral Sea. 
The palm tree-studded Esplanade overlooking Trinity Harbour simply buzzes. The choice and quality of restaurants and cafés is amazing. You will find everything from coffee shops and ice creameries to bistros, wine bars, seafood restaurants and colourful night markets.
The drive from Cairns to Port Douglas affords some of the best coastal scenery in Australia. En route you will discover Cairns' idyllic northern beaches. Drop into Yorkey's Knob, Machans, Trinity, Holloways and Ellis Beaches, or the stylish village of Palm Cove for a paddle, a cold ale and freshly cooked fish and chips overlooking the water. If you feel like a few quiet days of relaxation on the beach, accommodation ranges from well-appointed, self-contained beach front or beachside units and apartments, to comfy cabins and caravans with uninterrupted water views.         ]]></description>
        <pubDate>Sunday, April 20 2008</pubDate>
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        <title>Latest Launches!</title>
        <link>http://www.cairnsinfo.com//cairns-accommodation/Absolute Beachfront/1626/news#807</link>
        <description><![CDATA[
        Edit our Region Guide!
We need some help in the Travstar office to keep our region guide up to date. Its a big job and with so many beautiful areas and hidden spots we need the help of locals and tourists alike to ensure the information we provide is accurate and up to date.
For those who love the region as much as we do, polish up on your creative writing skills and hit the edit button on the category you would like to update. Your contribution will be sent through to us where we will check to ensure it is suitable before publishing on our website.
Share your ideas and experiences with the world!
Just click on the &quot;edit this page&quot; button at the bottom of each page.
Click here to&amp;nbsp;go to&amp;nbsp;the Cairns Region Guide        ]]></description>
        <pubDate>Sunday, April 20 2008</pubDate>
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        <title>Focus on Feedback</title>
        <link>http://www.cairnsinfo.com//cairns-accommodation/Absolute Beachfront/1626/news#799</link>
        <description><![CDATA[
        Just writing to say a huge THANK YOU for the wonderful holiday we just had. It was so easy and went like a dream. There was not one hitch and we had a ball. I will certainly use you and recommend your service as all your suggestions were spot on.&amp;nbsp;Feedback on our day tours:-The Tablelands was the best value for money and fun filled amazing tour day. This is well worth recommending if people want heaps of food beautiful waterfalsls and the castle park was unreal.&amp;nbsp;The Quicksilver was the best value for seeing the reef and excellent treatment and fussing over , very impressed with the level of professionalism. They did not try to constantly get more money and suggested eating after we snorkelled as there was plenty of time. They also included a free guided tour so we knew what we were looking at. If people are in Port Douglas the outer reef with this company would probably be of the same standard and better to do than the one we did from Cairns.&amp;nbsp;We did have a great time and the helicopter was unreal. The reef is unbelievable and we could not have had a better time. We spent the whole time in the water so we swam for almost 2 hours and just made the 2.30 cutoff. I wouldnt have cared if I did miss lunch.&amp;nbsp;I really loved the way you had it so easy for me and the most I had to do was walk out the door and hand over a voucher.&amp;nbsp;You live in a fantastic diverse place and I we were thrilled to experience all you had to offer.&amp;nbsp;It was&amp;nbsp; a pleasure to put a face to our phone calls. &amp;nbsp;Thank you again for a memorable holiday.&amp;nbsp;Leanne and Barry Sharp         ]]></description>
        <pubDate>Thursday, April 17 2008</pubDate>
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        <title>Latest Launches!</title>
        <link>http://www.cairnsinfo.com//cairns-accommodation/Absolute Beachfront/1626/news#785</link>
        <description><![CDATA[
        Welcome to Travstar and the official launch of our NEW Travstar news! We aim to keep you updated on the latest tourism news in Cairns from regional updates to new launches, press releases and the latest advice. We also aim to keep you updated on the latest events here at travstar.com. We will feature our new incentives, new package deals, focus on the latest feeback from our clients and spotlight on our favourite tours and accommodation giving you our real thoughts and experiences.
Did you know Travstar is located right here in Cairns? We are Cairns' biggest and longest running online travel specialist servicing the whole of the Far North Region. Our team consists of 7 friendly Cairns locals all budding holiday enthusiasts, who are excited to share with you what our special region has to offer.
We want to make your holiday an experience of a lifetime and we can offer you the latest advice and recommendations to tailor make your holiday to your personal needs.
We are proud to be members of the Travel Compensation Fund, Australian Federation of Travel Agents, International Air Transport Association and Tropical Tourism North Queensland, so you can be assured your holiday is in safe hands!
Our office is open 7 days a week from 7:00am - 6:00pm. If you need some holiday advice just give us a call on 1800 663 396.
Happy Travels!
Travstar Team        ]]></description>
        <pubDate>Friday, April 11 2008</pubDate>
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