Entertainment
18 December, 2025
Club members turn the pages over
A CLUB of book lovers, which was created when it was impossible to join another, is celebrating its fifth year.
The Page Turners Club in Port Douglas currently has 19 members.
The club was the inspiration of Margot Wainman, who arrived in Port Douglas with her husband in early 2020.
“My husband and I moved to Port Douglas in April 2020, not knowing a sole in town,” she said.
“Stuart started volunteering for the Port Douglas Community Service Network as soon as it opened again after the COVID closure.
“I heard that they ran a book club, so called to join, but was told there was a waiting list.
“I phoned so many times. I was eventually told that if I wanted to be in the club so much, I should start one myself. So, I did.
“It was initially made up of four of the ladies on the waiting list, with our first meeting in January 2021.”
Ms Wainman said the group was different to others, with members taking it in turn to select the book for the month and then, whoever selects the book, also chooses the venue for lunch.
“It is up to each member to get a copy of the book, but I send out a newsletter each month listing where the book is available. The local library is amazing,” she said.
“If someone has a copy and has finished reading it, it is passed on. Some of us like eBooks, or audio books, some just like the actual book.”
Over the last three years, the club has held annual fund raisers to assist the Port Douglas Community Service Network Christmas hamper appeal.
This year, the occasion was held it at St Andrews Community Hall with everyone paying $60 for lunch and drinks. The event included raffles, with everyone going home with a prize.
“Stuart and I pay for the food and drinks, that is our donation, so every dollar taken on the day goes towards Christmas hampers,” Ms Wainman said.
Details of club membership can be obtained by contacting the Port Douglas Community Service Network on 4099 5518.
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