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

Monday February 18, 2002 53rd Edition

After more hot and humid weather the rain has finally arrived, bringing with it some respite from the dry heat experienced for the last few months. Chinese New Year has been celebrated in Cairns as has Valentines Day.

Cairns celebrates Chinese New Year
Chinese New Year has been bigger than ever this year with thousands of tourists flocking to the city from Hong Kong, Taipei and mainland China. Whilst the actual New Year was the 12th of February celebrations were held
3-4 days either side of this period. Local Chinese restaurants did an excellent trade, all being booked to capacity. Dragon Dancers and fireworks were common sights on the streets of Cairns, providing a lively atmosphere for tourists and local residents alike.

Quarantine officers confiscate food from Chinese visitors
With the influx of Chinese New Years holidaymakers came the annual confiscation of over 500 kilogram's of banned foodstuffs collected at Cairns Airport by local quarantine staff. Confiscated foods included deer antlers, chicken feet and other meat products were all collected along with numerous products of unknown but suspicious origin.

Global environmental group considers setting up in Cairns
International research group, Earthwatch, is considering the establishment of a research institution on the Atherton Tablelands, west of Cairns. The group currently operates two research centres in the USA and the Atherton Tablelands. The proposed centre could attract up to 200 volunteers to conduct research every year.

Barramundi season opens with big catches
Every year there is a closed season from the end of November to the beginning of February. This is the breeding season for the mature fish. The keeping of any Barramundi caught (outside of freshwater catchment areas), can result in large fines. The annual closed season is believed to be working well to bring the numbers of Barramundi back to the high levels of 20 years ago. There is also a strong conservation movement amongst recreational fisherman, to catch and release Barramundi, especially the larger species that can grow to lengths of over 1.5 metres and weigh in excess of 50 kg.

Steve Bradbury becomes an instant hero in Cairns
Speed Skater, Steve Bradbury has been instantly elevated to celebrity status throughout Australia, following his Gold Medal victory at the Winter Olympics over the weekend. Whilst the victory has been considered extremely fortunate due to the collision that saw all of the other competitors forced out of the race, Mr Bradbury is happy to take the medal. This is the first Gold Medal at the Salt Lake 2002 Olympic Games.

Valentines Day brings out the City's romantic streak
Lovers of all ages celebrate their devotion to each other this Valentines Day. Florists reported booming trade with roses topping the most favourite Valentines Day gift, but closely followed by chocolates.

Taipans suffer mixed fortunes over weekend
The Cairns Taipans had the upset of the NBL season on Friday night by defeating the Wollongong Hawks 85-80 on Friday night. The Hawks are the current champions of the league premiership. Following this confidence boosting victory, the Taipans were soundly beaten by the Canberra Cannons on Saturday night, 105-74. Coach Guy Molloy has been a long time advocate calling for the elimination of road trips due to the increased demands on the players, resulting in less than perfect performances.