CNS armed & ready

POLICE officers patrolling Cairns Airport will now carry highpowered rifles as part of a major upgrade of the facility’s counterterrorism measures.

Assistant Commissioner of the Australian Federal Police, Lesa Gale, said the move was designed to bring the aviation hub up to world’s best practice before the resumption of overseas travel.

“It is vital we are equipped to respond immediately with the appropriate resources to any situation in Australian airports,” Gale said.