Cairns showed signs it was finally ready to emerge as an NBL force after moving into the top four with two impressive road wins in round 10.

The Taipans have struggled for success since joining the league in the 1999-00 season, boasting just one finals appearance to date from their six years in the league.

But the club added some significant new pieces in the off-season, including former Olympian Martin Cattalini, two-time NBL championship winner Darnell Mee and experienced coach Alan Black.

Former rookie of the year Gary Boodnikoff has become an offensive force, while Chris Burgess and Melvin Thomas add experience in the paint.

After a strong start to the season, Cairns went 2-4 in October to slip down the ladder, but the Snakes recaptured their best form over the weekend.

They proved too strong for the Bullets in Brisbane on Friday night, snapping a three-game losing streak with a 129-115 victory behind a 38-point haul from Cattalini.

"I was due for a good game," he said.

"The team had a flat October, so it was good."

Cairns then headed south to face the Pirates the following night and recorded a 98-90 win for a vital road double that left the team 7-5 for the season and firmly entrenched in the top four.

Townsville's woes reached epic proportions in round 10 after a 99-95 home defeat to Melbourne (3rd; 10-4) left it 10th with a 4-9 record.

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