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Cairns commits to inclusion
The Cairns Convention Centre has made an ongoing commitment to accessibility and inclusion through its building design , as well as various programs and partnerships , and its selection as a finalist for the Cairns Business Excellence Awards in People Management .
Globally , one in seven people live with a disability and the unemployment rate for people with disabilities is more than double that of those without disabilities . To address this disparity , the centre has implemented innovative strategies to foster a more inclusive and accessible workplace .
These include revising job postings to be more accessible and screen reader-friendly , having an inclusion statement in job postings , ongoing education and training . There are also reasonable workplace adjustments , like reduced working hours , workfrom-home arrangements and personal emergency evacuation plans .
The centre has forged strong relationships with disability employment providers through initiatives like the federally funded Tourism Taster program . This program connects Cairns ’ tourism businesses with employees with disabilities , promoting disability inclusion and refining hiring processes . Already , several people with disabilities have been placed into roles at the convention centre in kitchen , AV , events , venue presentation and research teams .
A further commitment to accessibility The Cairns Convention Centre has also launched the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program , an initiative that allows patrons and delegates to voluntarily share that they have a hidden disability and may need extra assistance .
Participants can wear Sunflower Program identification , such as lanyards , pins or wristbands , to discreetly signal their need for help . All full-time team members at the centre have received training on the Hidden Disability Program to ensure they provide the necessary care and consideration . Casual team members are currently being trained .
Additionally , the centre ’ s design has been guided by a profound commitment to accessibility . This approach ensures all guests , regardless of physical ability , can enjoy a seamless and inclusive experience . Key accessibility features include comprehensive wheelchair accessibility throughout the centre , advanced hearing augmentation systems and thoughtfully designed accessible changing facilities , including restrooms and public spaces .
Cairns Convention Centre ’ s general manager Janet Hamilton said the venue ’ s commitment to inclusivity drives the team to ensure their practices are accessible and supportive : “ Our aim is to provide a venue where accessibility is inherent , not an afterthought . We want all our guests , regardless of ability , to have an exceptional and equal experience at our centre .” S
The Calile Noosa gets the green light
Noosa Shire Council has approved the final plans for the development of The Calile Noosa following a two-year process with construction due to start early this year . The Calile co-owner Michael Malouf said the company worked collaboratively with the Noosa Council and fine-tuned the design to ensure they addressed the planning scheme and community expectations .
Michael explains : “ Resort sites are often at risk of being ceded to multinational hotel companies who impose incongruous designs and standards upon the local community . By contrast , The Calile is a homegrown Southeast Queensland brand with an implicit understanding of the local culture , climate , community , demographic and attributes .”
The integrated new resort will feature 153 rooms , 29 suites and four villas . All hotel rooms will be generous with the standard room being a minimum of 45 square metres . There will also be threebedroom villas for group bookings .
Embedded in a bushland setting , the large site allows for spacious , proportioned facilities , including a 50-metre main swimming pool plus a second quiet pool in a private garden setting . There are also comprehensive wellness facilities and function spaces . The Calile will no doubt embed its signature style into the new build . Its Brisbane property was last year recognised in the World ’ s 50 Best Hotels and named Best Hotel in Oceania for two consecutive years . S
Summer Issue 2025 | Executive PA 37