Reality in question

A HALLUCINOGEN may have distorted a defendant’s grip on reality, a court has heard. Jasmine Jewel Veivers was due to be sentenced in Cairns District Court for charges relating to drugs and wounding but her barrister noted her recollection of events did not line up with his summary of facts. James Sheridan, defending, told the court his client had consumed a hallucinogen the night of the alleged offences.

“At the watchhouse she gave instructions that were significantly different to the statement of facts,” Mr Sheridan said. “She objectively believes a state of affairs that did not exist.” The matter was adjourned for mention today.

Ramsay cuts plastic

RAMSAY Health Care has pledged to ban a range of single-use plastic items from its Australian hospitals, day surgeries and clinics including its facilities in Cairns.

The company will remove 24 million plastic items from the environment each year, and replace them with eco-friendly options. This list includes items such as drinking cups, plates, forks, knives, medication cups, plates, spoons, stirrers, straws and kidney dishes. Ramsay owns and operates Cairns Private Hospital, Cairns Day Surgery, and the Cairns Clinic.

Jury still deliberating

A CAIRNS jury will enter its second day of deliberation today over the fate of a stepfather accused of child abuse. The man has been tried for rape and indecently dealing with a child in Cairns and the Tablelands. It is alleged the abuse lasted until the girl, now aged in her 20s, was 17.

Genesis’ giving trees

GENESIS Health and Fitness clubs across Cairns are putting up special Christmas trees this year and invite local community members to place a wrapped gift underneath them for someone less fortunate. Gifts will be donated to Vinnies.