Kim Hurley of Port Douglas Radio hits the big time

PORT Douglas songwriter and radio identity Kim Hurley will be able to tick one off the bucket list when she records her debut EP album with renowned producer Nigel Pegrum.

Hers was one of nine local arts projects that received a share of $75,000 in Regional Arts Development Funding, presented this week by Cairns Regional Council.

An "overwhelmed" Ms Hurley will use the $12,476 grant to help produce a five to six track taster album that is inspired by elements of the north Queensland lifestyle.

The Radio Port Douglas morning show host has written about 10 songs to take to Mr Pegrum, who is based in Cairns, and she will also work closely with other local musicians.

"I’m trying to write some more at the moment and I’ll workshop with Nigel and see which ones are going to carry the best," she said.

"Nigel has wonderful experience working with strings … the whole bottom of his house is wall-to-wall instruments and gear. I can’t wait - it’s going to be mind blowing."

The former Melbournian, who has been living in Port Douglas for more than 10 years, has a vision to promote local musicians through tourism platforms available.