A remarkable region like ours requires broad participation and input and it is going to be vital to engage people in the many different suburbs, beach and rural communities and those in the diverse groups which flourish in our community.

We know our wonderful environment is important, that we need to diversify our economy, and how critical it is that we keep the character of Cairns and the region and enable our residents to connect.

No doubt there will be proposals that are outside the direct control of Council and our challenge is going to be to take the steps - both small and large - that will enable us to advocate, lobby and invest the dollars that will enable the vision to be achieved. It promises to be an exciting exercise and I will keep you informed on how we will proceed over the coming months.