THE AUTHOR'S STORY
Photograph taken at Rex Smeal Park, Port Douglas by the Conductor of the Queensland Symphony Orchestra. Symphony Under the Stars, Port Douglas Carnivale 2025.
Photographer: John de Rooy
Photographer: John de Rooy
Photograph taken at Rex Smeal Park, Port Douglas by the Conductor of the Queensland Symphony Orchestra. Symphony Under the Stars, Port Douglas Carnivale 2025.
MEET CHERYLENE BROOKE-TURNER
Cherylene Brooke-Turner is the creator and owner of the Affirmations Project, a pathway to lateral thinking that captured a real-time snapshot of history during her early 30s while living and working in Port Douglas. Despite facing enormous personal adversities—including Breast Cancer, Major Depression, and CPTSD—Cherylene never gave up on her vision. Her resilience and determination saw the project finally come to life in print, more than 21 years after its inception.
For Cherylene, this publication is more than a creative achievement—it is a testament to the importance of staying positive, looking after mental health, and always choosing to “look on the bright side.” Her work celebrates the vibrant community spirit of Port Douglas and the Shire while inspiring others never to give up on their dreams, no matter how long the journey may take.
She was a two-time successful recipient of the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) for this project, proudly supported by Douglas Shire Council.
Photo taken at Rex Smeal Park, Port Douglas by the Conductor of the Queensland Symphony Orchestra. Symphony Under the Stars,
Port Douglas Carnivale 2025.
WORDS THAT SHAPED A COMMUNITY
The boat chooses the people.
A. MATEER
Never give up on your dreams, or they'll give up on you.
ANTHONY HAINES, STUDENT
Shine on, your spirit is your essence.
LUCI PETRUS, TEACHER
Description: Bill Conway, Chief & Co-owner of Salsa Bar & Grill
Title: Great Barrier Reef
Title: Daintree
Description: Bill Conway, Chief & Co-owner of Salsa Bar & Grill
