Guide to prep students for Cairns study

The popularity of Cairns as a study destination will be highlighted as part of tomorrow’s International Day of Peace celebrations.

More than 350 international students currently studying in Cairns will be formally welcomed by Mayor Bob Manning on the Cairns Esplanade.

“These students have come from across the globe and have chosen to study and live in Cairns,” Cr Manning said.

“Our tropical climate, laidback lifestyle, level of services and activities, combined with quality education facilities – most notably James Cook University – make Cairns an ideal place to study.

“I’m sure the rest of Cairns will join me in offering a warm welcome to these young people who are making a valuable contribution to our community.”

Cr Manning will launch an online guide designed to assist international students looking to study in Cairns.

The Guide to Studying and Living in Cairns provides information on everything from organising insurance and finding accommodation or transport, to cyclone preparedness, personal health and acceptable public behaviour.

“It answers the questions a lot of people have when they arrive in Australia for the first time,” Cr Manning said.

“Because it is available online, students can obtain the guide before they arrive so they can be prepared.

“It can be daunting to move to a new country, particularly when you are young and embarking on your direction in life. This guide will help students settle in quickly so they can concentrate on their studies and enjoying their time in Cairns.”

The online guide includes links to various government and informational websites that may be required, as well as basic Australian etiquette and localised information on transport and medical facilities.

The guide is available via Council’s website www.cairns.qld.gov.au and a modified version will soon be available for download through both iTunes and Google Play.

The student welcome and guide launch will take place on the Eastern Events Lawn of the Cairns Esplanade at 1pm and will be followed by the RUTHLESS Youth for Peace music festival.

The events are part of the annual Peace Week program, which continues this weekend.