BETTER TIMES AHEAD

ANOTHER interest rate cut of 0.25 per cent is an attempt by the Federal Government to kick-start the housing and retail sectors of the economy.

This might not have a profound effect on the Cairns economy as we are highly geared towards good tourist numbers.

I believe Cairns is in a “waiting period” at the moment – waiting for the effects of the influx of Chinese tourists, courtesy of the Southern and Eastern China flights into this region.

Adding to this, we’re waiting for an increase in cruise ships visiting our city due to dredging the harbour, plus for the government and council construction projects to take effect.

Confidence is a huge factor in this city and once increased construction (which is a by-product of the above factors) occurs, we

Investment is happening but not yet of any real consequence.

could see a quick turnaround.

At the moment real estate activity is confined mainly to local trading of upgrading/downgrading, first home buyers or people moving to the city.

Investment is happening but not yet of any real consequence.

You do feel though, with these projects unfolding, that better times are ahead of us and the market changes even before we see it.