General News
30 May, 2025
Carnivale captivates people
CARNIVALE weekend in Port Douglas came and went like a flash, similar to the amazing fireworks on Friday night. It was definite proof that time flies when you are having fun.
After speaking to numerous Carnivale regulars, the general impression seemed to be that this year was a particularly well attended weekend and overall, the attractions were as good, if not better than before.
This is most likely due to new attractions such as the Maho Magic Bar from Japan and three nights of music, with Savannah Sounds at Rex Smeal Park. Amazingly, it has been estimated that over 10,000 people were in attendance during the weekend.
Two highlights for me personally were the Friday street parade and the final act of Savannah Sounds, that being the legendary Glenn Shorrock. I was privileged to MC the Sunday evening, so was therefore lucky enough to see him perform various classics from backstage.
I caught up with the great man for a quiet chat after his performance and, although the veteran singer/songwriter admitted a little tiredness after the flawless performance, he was pleased to say “the voice is still there” and it certainly was.
“It’s very special to perform in my part-time home of Port Douglas” he said.
The Macrossan Street parade, as always, was a key attraction for the weekend and drew crowds in their thousands on Friday night, with this year’s ‘Tropical Treasures’ theme setting the tone for a colourful night of floats, dancers and costumes.
This was coupled with the buzzing pubs, restaurants and firework finale which provided a fun night for all.
The winning float went to Port Douglas State School for best overall, with Windswell Adventures and Sea Circus Productions taking out best business, Port Douglas Surf Life Saving Club named best community and Back Country Bliss Adventures awarded best eco themed.
Carnivale weekend also included the usual beach day antics with The Tin Shed family beach day, involving sandcastle competitions, giant kites, beach games, live music and water sports by Windswell.
The popular longest lunch at Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort Port Douglas treated guests to a long table feast beneath the palms, complete with cocktails, a seven-course meal and sweeping views of the 9th fairway. The event also raised $18,000 for Douglas Shire charity KIND.
Other weekend highlights included the high-energy Temple of Fire pool party at Pullman Sea Temple, Café del Mar at Sheraton Sunset Sessions, the new Makers tropic lights projection trail turning Macrossan St and the sugar wharf into a glowing marine dreamscape.
The quirky Maho Magic Bar served up cocktails and close-up illusions at Dixie Park, while Sea Circus Treasured Tales brought aerial performers, fire dancers and circus magic to the Surf Club. Sunday eased into a slower pace with the poolside fiesta at Oaks Resort, Port Douglas Markets, and art exhibitions including Go Troppo and the Tropical Destinations Photography showcase. The pooch party raised over $3000 funds for Paws and Claws and trail runners wrapped up the weekend with the Douglas dash.
Mayor Lisa Scomazzon said early feedback from businesses and the community had been overwhelmingly positive.
“Everywhere you went, there were smiling faces. That’s what Carnivale is all about. A great weekend of food, fun and entertainment while also giving our local businesses and tour operators a well-needed boost ahead of season,” she said. “Last year’s event delivered more than $5 million in direct economic value for the Douglas Shire and we are hopeful this year’s numbers will be just as strong, if not better.”
I can’t wait for next year already, but for now it’s Gazza signing out.
Send your stories to gazza@cairnslocalnews.com.au
