General News
3 August, 2025
A colourful July in Douglas
IT’S been a colourful couple of weeks in the Douglas Shire with the NAIDOC celebrations, Jeanie Haydon’s glamourous clothing sale and the Mossman Show.
Apart from a celebration of all things agricultural, the show weekend was an opportunity to crown this year’s Young Rural Ambassador.
Among a strong field of contenders, it was Mia Scomazzon who was eventually awarded the prestigious title for 2025, this announcement and presentation being part of the Mossman Show’s final day on July 21.
Events such as the recent Mossman Show Ball have aided in recognising and celebrating the Shire’s talented, dedicated and motivated young people who represent the next generation of rural leaders.
With the agricultural industry evolving, these young front runners will play a crucial role in shaping the future and ensure that the region’s agricultural heritage is not forgotten. It will encourage younger generations to take an active role in shaping what comes next.
During past months those vying for the coveted title have had the opportunity to highlight their achievements, aspirations and commitment to rural industries, while reinforcing the importance of leadership and community service.
Ms Scomazzon, although confident, was surprised to be the eventual winner. She now hopes more young people will join local volunteer groups, as she believes young minds bring new ideas that can help the community flourish.
Jeanie Haydon got more than she bargained for when over 80 prospective purchasers made their way to the SheShed, at the Mossman Support Services, all keen to pick up a bargain of their own.
Ms Haydon, a well-known and colourful character in the Douglas Shire, with a vast selection of outfits, recently decided it was time for a change of wardrobe, so therefore put her many outfits up for sale, at an event entitled Jeanie La’More, on Thursday, July 24.
In true community spirit, all proceeds from the sales will be donated to Pink in the Tropics Breast Cancer Support Group and, apart from the larger than expected attendance for the afternoon tea, the overall clothing sales raised in excess of $1500.
Ms Haydon has a particularly special reason for parting with some of her treasured clothing, having lost her younger sister, Rosie, to breast cancer in 2018.
The self-confessed colourful clothing fanatic did put out a warning, however, saying, “beware all local op-shops, as I will now be looking to re stock my wardrobe and will be paying you a visit soon.
“I may be looking for something other than pink this time,” she said.
This year’s Douglas Shire NAIDOC celebrations started two weeks after the official National NAIDOC Week, between July 6 and 13, during the school holidays.
The reason for this time change was to allow school groups to take part after their recent break.
As with many local events, this colourful week of activities was made possible through the dedication of local community groups, Elders, artists and educators who came together to share culture, knowledge, and connection.
With this year’s NAIDOC Week theme being ‘The Next Generation: Strength, Vision and Legacy’, day one began with a flag raising ceremony by Elders and students.
The morning also included a ‘Welcome To Country’, words from the mayor and Elders, a cake cutting, plus locals coming together from all sides of the community to honour the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Those attending also reflected on their commitment to cultural continuity, youth engagement and enduring contributions in the community.
The Monday activities also included the traditional community street parade along Front St in Mossman, starting at Mossman State High School and finishing at George Davis Park, where people could further enjoy ‘NAIDOC in the Park’ with market stalls, entertainment, activities and a community barbecue.
I’m off to take a breather after all this action, so for now it’s Gazza signing out.
Send your stories to gazza@cairnslocalnews.com.au
