Entertainment
24 October, 2025
Tales of spirit and fortitude
AFTER 21 years in the making ‘Voices of Port Douglas and Shire – A Piece of History Volume 1’ written by local author Cherylene Brooke-Turner is hot off the press after 21 years in the making.
Ms Brooke-Turner’s Book celebrates the 20th anniversary of her Affirmations Project, a unique initiative that has 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 tranquillity with reef adventure,” she said.
“Through positive affirmations, the playful vision of local children and the artistry of professional photographers, the Affirmations Project has become a living archive of that time and place.”
Two decades later, Ms Brooke-Turner has transformed her vision into print.
One thousand copies of the colourful publication have been printed.
The A4, 216-page, hard cover book covers stories of many renowned local people, plus children’s art and work from professional photographers.
“More than a book, it is a pathway to lateral thinking, a record of resilience and a tribute to the power of perseverance,” Ms Brooke-Turner said.
“This is a work for dreamers, creators and anyone who understands the beauty of never giving up,” she said.
Other than her current volunteer work, Ms Brooke-Turner is now retired, having been a registered nurse, army veteran, financial auditor and now published author.
“The Affirmations Project, is close to my heart,” she said.
“This publication took me 21 years to finally go to print, however I never gave up on this project and kept my faith that one day my work would be recognised.”
Ms Brooke-Turner regards the publication as an actual piece of history.
“I am grateful I had the insight to do this work in my early 30s while living and working on the marina in Port Douglas and, even more so, to have the insight to have kept all the material, safe and preserved for 21 years,” she said.
Ms Brooke-Turner has been a two-time successful recipient of the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) for this project, supported by Douglas Shire Council.
Read More: Port Douglas
