VOICES OF PORT DOUGLAS & SHIRE:
A PIECE OF HISTORY, VOLUME 1
Capturing the voices
of a community
Photo credit: Wix
Despription: Four Mile Beach
ABOUT THE BOOK
Voices of Port Douglas and Shire: A Piece of History, Volume 1 celebrates the 20th anniversary of the Affirmations Project, a unique initiative that captured the energy, imagination, and heart of a community unlike any other.
In the early 2000s, Port Douglas was buzzing—a town alive with colourful personalities, creative ventures, and a spirit that blended rainforest tranquility with reef adventure. Through positive affirmations, the playful vision of local children, and the artistry of professional photographers, the Affirmations Project became a living archive of that time and place.
Two decades later, Cherylene Brooke-Turner brings this vision into print. More than a book, it is a pathway to lateral thinking, a record of resilience, and a tribute to the power of perseverance. This is a work for dreamers, creators, and anyone who understands the beauty of never giving up.
This project is supported by the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland.
A TRIBUTE TO
COMMUNITY & CREATIVITY
WORDS THAT SHAPED A COMMUNITY
Individuals are strong, but teamwork is powerful. Be prepared to share knowledge in the hope that others will share theirs with you. If outlets for your creativity don't exist, create them.
ORGANISERS OF 2004 PORT SHORTS FILM FESTIVAL
Never fear to turn the key of your imagination and free your genius.
JEFF WHITEHILL, ARTIST
There's nothing worth doing except the impossible.
DIANNE CILENTO, KARNAK THEATRE
THE AUTHOR'S STORY
MEET CHERYLENE BROOKE-TURNER
Visionary - Dreamer - Creator of the Affirmations Project
Cherylene began this journey in her early 30s, determined to preserve the voices and spirit of her community. Two decades later, her persistence and passion have brought this vision into reality.
Photo credit: John de Rooy