General News
18 March, 2026
Kerr challenges Cairns Post tourism funding report
CAIRNS businessman Gary Kerr has written to The Cairns Post disputing allegations published in a report about tourism funding in the city.
The letter relates to an article titled “Secret recording reveals alleged Cairns tourism funding plot”, written by Samuel Davis and published on 5 March 2026.
In the correspondence, Mr Kerr states the article contains allegations concerning himself and Cairns Mayor Amy Eden, which he says are “false, unfounded and damaging”.
Mr Kerr rejected the claims made in the article which convey imputations that he engaged in improper political influence over public funding decisions, sought personal financial benefit from the council as a result of campaign involvement and was involved in an arrangement to redirect tourism funding.
The correspondence also states the article cast “serious and unjustified aspersions” on Mayor Amy Eden by implying improper campaign inducements and misuse of council funds.
Mr Kerr’s letter claims there was no meaningful attempt to verify the allegations with him before publication.
“The publication of these allegations without verification represents grossly irresponsible journalism and has caused significant reputational harm,” the letter states.
The correspondence says Mr Kerr has documentary and witness evidence he believes shows the allegations are without foundation.
The letter calls on The Cairns Post to retract the article from digital platforms and publish an apology to Mr Kerr and Mayor Eden.
It also states that the matter may be referred to the Australian Press Council and that Mr Kerr reserves the right to pursue defamation proceedings.
