General News
26 October, 2026
Cairns woman stranded
A CAIRNS-born woman is appealing for help after a breakdown left her stranded on the Gold Coast and at risk of sleeping rough.
Melinda Laidlaw, 51, has lived in her Toyota HiAce van between house-sitting arrangements since 2023, when her Holloways Beach rent rose from $400 to $750 a week.
She travelled south to support her daughter and meet her newborn granddaughter, but her van developed a blown head gasket shortly after her arrival.
Ms Laidlaw said repairs could cost between $7000 and $12000, with a formal quote pending.
Currently staying in a hostel, she fears that accommodation costs rising to $75-$120 a night next month will leave her homeless.
Despite her circumstances, Ms Laidlaw has used a makeshift kitchen in her van to prepare meals for homeless people in Cairns and Port Douglas.
A GoFundMe appeal has been established to help cover repairs.
For donations visit www.gofund.me/6d8481efe
