Scientists start cancer probe

Friday, April 18, 2008

ENVIRONMENTAL testing has begun at Atherton Fire Station as part of the cancer cluster investigation.

Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency scientists arrived from Melbourne yesterday to measure extremely low frequency magnetic fields, ionising radiation, gamma rays and radio frequency electro-magnetic radiation.

Dr Lindsay Martin said testing should be completed today.

"Extremely low frequency radiation fields are not known to cause cancer but have been linked to childhood leukemia," he said.

"Ionising radiation at high levels is a known cause of some cancers but we have no reason to believe any of these are too high at the station."

Queensland Fire and Rescue Mareeba inspector Denis McKinley said the arrival of the scientists had provided staff with some comfort.

<strong>Sensitive gear: </strong>Dr Stuart Henderson and Dr Lindsay Martin begin testing at the Atherton Fire Station.

Sensitive gear: Dr Stuart Henderson and Dr Lindsay Martin begin testing at the Atherton Fire Station.

Blitz on binge drinking

PUBS will slash happy hours and cheap drink promotions in a bid to curb violent assaults and alcohol-fuelled problems in the Cairns CBD. more

Attempted murder charge

A 38-year-old man from Mooroobool appeared in the Cairns Magistrates' Court today charged with attempted murder and attempt to injure by explosive. more

Forum vows to fight crime

HUNDREDS of people crowded into a little hall in North Cairns last night to plead for more police and tougher sentencing to stop rising violence in their suburbs. more

Kids dumped shocks Premier

QUEENSLAND Premier Anna Bligh was "appalled" yesterday by revelations a baby and two young children were dumped at Atherton McDonald's while their parents drank at a local pub. more

JCU should move medical school: Boyle

JAMES Cook University has been asked to move its medical school to a new hospital on the south side of the city. more

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