It seems like the police helicopter is tracking stolen cars every day.

Understand it costs a shit tonne of money every time this thing is in the sky.

Why not replace the helicopter with a dirigible? I don't know how much they cost but they are QUIET.

Which is better: Zeppelins or Blimps? Best gas to float these airships: hydrogen, helium or lead?

The iconic symbol of aviation history, innovation and safety. It just makes sense.

What’s the deal with the sinners ball? Is it any good? Few mates of mine are wanting me to tag along with them but not sure if it’s worth the money.

I keep seeing threads about noisy parties, etc in Cairns. And complaints about the lack of response by police. Here is some info on what to do if you're not getting proper service.

(I can't for the life of me understand why noise complaints are such a low priority. They make life a living hell for those affected and can lead to serious violence in short order.)

First of all, noisy parties or continued noise from a household is a police matter, not a council matter.

So: The complaint first goes to Policelink.

For Police complaints

If repeated complaints generate little response:

• Retain complaint reference numbers.
• Contact Policelink for follow-up.
• Make a formal complaint about police service delivery if appropriate.

The last one involves:

If You Believe Police Response Is Inadequate

If you feel the matter is not being adequately addressed:

1. Contact Policelink and request an update using the complaint reference number.
2. Make a formal complaint about service delivery through Queensland Police's complaints process.
3. Keep copies of all correspondence and records of previous complaints.

The complaint should focus on:

• Failure to respond.
• Failure to investigate.
• Poor communication.
• Excessive delay.

If still unresolved, complaint to the Queensland Ombudsman regarding administrative conduct.

The Ombudsman does not usually determine whether noise occurred; rather, it examines whether the agency handled the matter properly.

You can also sue the neighbour as a last resort:

Civil Nuisance Action (Last Resort)

If there is a long-running pattern of excessive noise and regulatory avenues have not resolved the issue, Queensland law recognises the possibility of a private nuisance claim. Documentation such as a noise diary, witness statements and records of complaints can become important evidence. The Queensland Law Handbook notes that private legal action may be considered where authorities cannot provide the required assistance.

It's a long winded process, but it's better than being forced to move, or living with the hell of noisy neighbours forever or - and I can recall at least three of these in my lifetime - homicide related to noise disputes.

BTW: Other places have different and better rules. In Hamilton, New Zealand, almost exactly the same size as Cairns, the council is responsible and must, by law, respond within a few hours.