The Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre (HCSC) is back to business after being severely impacted by last month's devastating flood. Volunteers and staff have worked tirelessly to ensure all services are up and running.  Despite the flood wiping out the Centre building on Townsville Road, the Social Enterprise Maintenance shed and the loss of several vehicles, HCSC was able to bounce back ensuring minimal disruption to our programs and services.

All services are being delivered from the HUB and, thanks to the generous support from SES, the Social Enterprise boys have moved back into their shed after an enormous clean up.

At its core, HCSC offers a comprehensive range of programs designed to uplift and support the community. Among the key services are:
• Domestic and Family Violence
• Youth Service
• Community Support Service
• Community Grants Officer
• Community Recovery
• Housing & Homelessness Service
• Emergency Relief Program
• Home & Yard Maintenance Service

The Hinchinbrook Community Support centre offers opportunity for connections through a range of activities and volunteering. It’s a place where lifelong friendships are formed and where a sense of community thrives.  They value the generosity of their volunteers, local businesses, and the community. For more information, please call 4776 1822 or visit their website www.hcsc.org.au.  Keep up with activities and programs on their Facebook.

Contributed with thanks to Carmon Martin

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A long-running NRL tipping competition in Ingham is celebrating its 25th year. Originally founded in 2000 by local businessmen George Croton and Grant Cartwright, the competition has evolved from a manual system reliant on paper entries and faxes to a modern, app-based format.

The competition, now known as IGC NRL Tipping, has continued to thrive under the stewardship of its current organiser, Geoff Gianotti, who took over four years ago. The transition to the NRL app has made the process more efficient. Despite the shift in format, the competition remains as strong as ever, including 59 participants this year.

Since it is the 25th anniversary, Geoff approached the North Queensland Cowboys, who have provided promotional packs containing merchandise such as footballs, caps, and jerseys. These items will be used as prizes.

One of the highlights of this milestone year is a special competition within the main event, titled ‘Simply the Best.’ This contest brings together 14 previous winners, in a unique challenge to determine the best of the best. The organiser hopes to secure a special prize from the Cowboys for this competition.

Another notable addition of this year's event is a charity raffle for a framed, signed ‘Maroon Commanders’ photograph featuring Queensland Origin legends, valued at $750. The raffle is open exclusively to competition participants, and all proceeds will be donated to a local charity, Meals on Wheels. The donation will be presented during the competition’s presentation night on September 13 at the Ingham RSL, where ticket sales will also take place.

Anyone can enter this competition and Geoff said someone that enters today can still win. This year, three young football enthusiasts have joined, with their grandfather proudly registering them.

The tipping competition, which costs $65 to join, is a non-profit initiative, with all funds going towards food, drinks, prizes, and a courtesy bus to ensure participants can enjoy the event safely. Each week, participants receive an email filled with witty commentary on team performances, adding an element of fun to the experience.

With strong community support and ongoing partnerships, the IGC NRL Tipping competition continues to bring locals together through their shared passion for rugby league, ensuring its legacy well beyond this milestone year.

Almost a decade has passed since Chris Holland and Craig Menegon took ownership of
Terry White Chemmart on July 1, 2015. In that time, the business has undergone significant changes, not only in its physical appearance but also in the services it provides to the community.

One of the biggest shifts in the pharmacy industry has been the expansion of services, particularly in vaccinations. Craig said almost all vaccinations can be done inside Terry White Chemist by the pharmacy team. He added that it has been a catalyst for further growth and increasing more services within the pharmacy.

Since taking over the pharmacy, the owners have also undertaken a rebranding. In September 2021, they transitioned to the current brand, which provided access to a wider range of products while also modernising the store’s appearance.

Both co-owners have long-standing ties to the pharmacy, having worked under the previous owner, which Craig said allowed himself and Chris to maintain the relationships they had built with customers,

Customer service remains at the heart of the business. Before Chris and Craig owned the chemist they worked under the slogan ‘Personal Service, Professional Care’, which is now echoed in Terry White Chemmart’s slogan ‘Dedicated to Care’.

The two of them learned that customers service is the most important part of the business, and they strive to maintain those strong relationships.

Craig said that moving to employee to ownership was a big change, they are still learning everyday, and its challenging but satisfying to be both a business owner and a pharmacist at the same time.

As flu season approaches, the pharmacy is preparing to meet the demand for vaccinations. The vaccines have arrived and they are ready to be distributed, by scanning the QR code on this page you can schedule your spot.

The business has also faced challenges, including operating through a power outage during a major flood event.

"We were fortunate that we didn’t have floodwater enter the store, but we had no power for a week," Craig recalled.

With nearly ten years in business, the pharmacy continues to evolve, ensuring it remains a trusted healthcare provider for the community. Craig said the best part of the job is having relationships with customers, and moving forward, he is looking forward to offering even more care to the people of the region.

My Katter’s Australian Party colleague Shane Knuth MP recently introduced a Crocodile Management Bill into Queensland Parliament, and it couldn’t have come at a better time. With the recent floods, crocs are turning up in places they weren’t before, making our waterways even more dangerous. For too long, we’ve been losing our pristine swimming holes and favourite recreational spots to these apex predators whose population goes completely uncontrolled.

Here in Hinchinbrook, we love fishing and the outdoors. It’s frustrating to be constantly told to be “croc wise” and to watch our behaviour. It feels like the government is more concerned with managing humans than managing crocs. That’s why I strongly support Shane Knuth’s bill. It puts the safety of humans first by calling for practical measures to reduce crocodile numbers in populated areas.

Crocodile control isn’t about wiping them out, it’s about restoring balance. The bill proposes targeted removals and common-sense management strategies that protect our right to safely enjoy our waterways. This includes the establishment of the Queensland Crocodile Authority, a local body based in Cairns, which would take full responsibility for crocodile management across the state.

I’d like to see the State Government get behind this bill and start listening to the communities that live with this problem every day. It’s easy when a majority of our politicians live in the south-east to ignore important issues like this in the North. It’s not an unreasonable request to just want the freedom to swim, fish, and relax without constantly looking over our shoulders.

Submissions on the bill are currently open until the 3rd of April 2025. For anyone wishing to make a submission, you can do so through the Queensland Parliament website. A public briefing will be held on the 2nd of April in Brisbane with a public hearing to follow on the 21st of May 2025.

Contributed with thanks to Nick Dametto MP Member for Hinchinbrook

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Since the flooding event, the Herbert River Improvement Trust has been dealing with increasing expectations from landowners and community while facing difficulties in securing adequate funding to carry out essential works.

With limited annual budget allocations and a reliance on grant funding, the Trust is struggling to meet demand for riverbank stabilisation, flood mitigation, and infrastructure protection.

The Trust's primary funding comes from an annual budget of approximately $280,000, supplemented by grants. However, securing grant funding has become increasingly difficult, as competition with other organisations intensifies.

In an effort to stretch resources, the Herbert River Improvement Trust follows a cost-sharing model with landowners, typically requiring a 50-50 financial contribution. However, when projects are funded through government grants, often under disaster recovery programs, landowners are not required to contribute.

Since the flood, the Trust is seeing a surge in requests from landowners, but the reality is they cannot fix everything immediately, and some landowners are unaware of the 50/50 contribution needed.

The prioritisation of projects is based on multiple factors, including financial contributions from landowners. Those willing to invest in their own properties often receive higher priority in the Trust's work program. Essential infrastructure projects, such as those that benefit entire communities, also take priority.

Securing government grants is a complex process, involving negotiations with multiple levels of government. More recently, a state grant of $400,000 helped raise the levee in Halifax, preventing severe flooding in the area. While such funding is vital, it is not guaranteed, and the Trust must continually push for financial support.

Getting a grant can take a serious amount of time which can in turn make landowners frustrated, but despite this, the Herbert River Improvement Trust is positive that they will see government grant support to help in this region.

Beaumont Tiles and Bathroomware in Ingham has been a cornerstone of the local building and renovation and building repair industry, providing expert advice, quality products, and unwavering community support. Owned and operated by Helen and Eric Shoubridge, this family business is more than just a tile and bathroom ware supplier, it is a trusted resource for homeowners and builders alike.

The store serves both residential and commercial customers, providing tiles and flooring, walls, kitchens, and bathrooms and assisting in designing and creating beautiful bathrooms and laundries with fixtures and fittings.

Helen emphasises that tiles are more than just a functional product, they can also be a statement piece in home design.

“Tiles are not just a barrier product, they are pieces of art and it comes down to the skill and design,” she said.

A significant part of their work involves collaborating with homeowners, contractors, and insurance companies to ensure seamless renovations.

People go into Beaumont Tiles with plans, and they can recommend tiles to work within different price ranges, all whilst finding what the customer had envisioned.

Helen and Eric moved to the district in 2004 to become motel owners and operators, and the experience they have gained since living in the region has allowed them to prepare for future disasters.

They have faced significant flooding and cyclone events whilst living in Ingham, and they quickly learnt the importance of quality materials and expert advice. This understanding led them to join Beaumont Tiles, a company known for its extensive range and reliable supply chain.

“We’ve been through these challenges ourselves,” Helen explained.

“Every flood has taught us something valuable, and that knowledge allows us to guide our customers on how to make the best choices for their homes and businesses.”

The recent floods brought unexpected challenges, with the store’s warehouse experiencing flooding for the first time. Despite taking precautions by storing materials on pallets, some stock was damaged. However, due to Beaumont Tiles being Australia-wide with locations throughout the country, they were able to work successfully to fulfil orders.

Helen said that Beaumont Tiles was and continues to be incredibly supportive, assisting in the recovery process and ensuring that supply remains consistent despite logistical difficulties.

Community support remains at the heart of Helen and Eric’s business philosophy.

“One of the reasons we chose to stay in Ingham was the incredible community spirit,” Helen said.

“When we first moved here, people would come by and ask if we needed help after a flood.”

Helen continues to thank everyone for their support in the early years by actively volunteering with Life Long Supports and The Abergowrie Long Pocket QCWA.

While Beaumont Tiles does not handle installations directly, Eric and Helen provide customers with the names of local businesses and assist customers in navigating current building challenges in the area.

As design trends evolve, the store ensures that customers have access to the latest styles and materials.

“We are always removing a certain style and putting in a new one,” said Helen.

“It’s quite exciting to collaborate with people to make their flooring, bathrooms, kitchens and laundries satisfying.”

Helen and Eric’s commitment to the community, combined with their deep industry knowledge has made Beaumont Tiles in Ingham an invaluable resource for homeowners and businesses alike.

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Forrest Beach is open again!

On Thursday 6th March, the Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC) stinger net was returned to the water, opening the beach to swimmers.

Member of the Forrest Beach SLSC and stinger net supervisor, Bill Johnson said the beach had been cleaned up since the flood. Bill acknowledged that the conditions were good, and quickly seized the opportunity to reinstall the net.

Bill advises to swim in the early morning or late afternoon for the best tide and water temperature.

Swimmers are advised to stay within the safety of the stinger net and between the red and yellow flags at all times. For added protection, wearing a lycra stinger suit is recommended.

“This weekend will see big tides at 6-7 o’clock in the morning, so this weekend will be absolutely beautiful for swimming,” said Bill.

The lifesavers patrol the beach, Saturdays - 1.00-5:00pm and Sundays & Public Holidays - 9:00am-5:00pm.

The stinger net has been out for at least a month, and now is a great time to get back in the water.

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An Australian-first initiative to improve fatigue management on farms has heard directly from busy primary producers about how they prioritise rest, safety and productivity.

CQUniversity researchers are compiling the practical advice for farmers, with farmers – with input from across dairy, cotton, eggs and grains sectors.

Now the project is creating useful guides to highlight causes, impacts and management strategies for fatigue on farms – and launching a new survey to grow understanding of farmers’ experiences.

Fatigue on-farm has been identified as an industry-wide priority for the Rural Safety & Health Alliance (RSHA), a collaborative partnership between AgriFutures Australia, Australian Eggs, Australian Wool Innovation, Australian Pork Ltd, Cotton Research and Development Corporation, Dairy Australia and Grains Research and Development Corporation.

In collaboration with the RSHA, the Farming and Fatigue: Growing Sensible Solutions project aims to help industry measure and manage fatigue on-farm.

Amy Cosby is part of the project team from CQUniversity’s Agri-tech Education and Extension team as well as a dairy farmer and busy mum.

She says the research is a first for the Australian agriculture sector, and importantly works with farmers to highlight effective habits for rest and wellbeing.

“What farmers have told us so far is that managing fatigue on farms is about more than hours in bed – it’s impacted by stress, and seasons, and weather, and of course the huge workloads involved with life on the land,” she said.

“But what we’ve also found, and what is certainly my personal experience, is that farmers also consider what they eat, how they exercise, how they schedule employee shifts, and even how they socialise, to try to get better rest, balance their life and avoid fatigue.

“We want producers to have a clear understanding of how their current working patterns can be tweaked to better manage the real risks of fatigue on farms,” Amy said.

Farmers can learn more about the Farming and Fatigue project and complete the anonymous survey online: https://bit.ly/FarmingFatigueSurvey

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Biosecurity Queensland is advising of the preliminary identification of varroa mite (Varroa destructor) for the first time in Queensland.

Initial samples from a recreational apiary in the Lockyer Valley have returned a positive diagnostic result for Varroa destructor.

Further samples from recreational and commercial apiaries have been collected and are currently undergoing testing to confirm the presence of Varroa destructor and also check for other exotic pests and diseases.

Department of Primary Industries Deputy Director-General and Chief Biosecurity Officer Dr Rachel Chay said increased detections into Queensland’s border regions were expected in the coming months due to natural spread from New South Wales.

“Biosecurity Queensland has been preparing for this event and is working closely with the affected beekeepers to slow the spread of varroa mite and help guide management practices,” Dr Chay said.

“We’ve joined all other states and territories in shifting our focus from eradication to management to safeguard Queensland’s valuable honeybee industry and recreational beekeeping.

“Queensland's Varroa Mite Biosecurity Zone remains in place, which restricts the movement of bees, beehives and beekeeping equipment from states and territories with varroa mite.

“We remain committed to supporting the beekeeping industry by working alongside individual beekeepers, peak industry bodies and a dedicated biosecurity champion network.”

Queensland Beekeepers’ Association President Jacob Stevens said the first detection of Varroa destructor in Queensland had been expected “for some time now”.

“Thank you to the Queensland beekeepers who have reported varroa mite. Unfortunately, these reports come as no surprise,” Mr Stevens said.

All beekeepers are urged to remain vigilant and undertake monthly hive health checks to determine varroa mite presence.

All results should be reported to the Bee 123 online form, even if no mites are found.
Immediately report unexpected hive deaths, deformed bees, bees with parasites, poor brood patterns and dead brood to Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23.

Varroa development officers (VDOs) are available to provide advice to all Queensland beekeepers in early detection and integrated pest management principles. VDOs can be contacted at varroa@daf.qld.gov.au.

All beekeepers should:
• monitor for mites monthly using the alcohol wash method
• report all hive checks using the quick and easy Bee 123 form, even if no mites are found
• immediately report any suspect mites, unexpected hive deaths, deformed bees, bees with parasites, poor brood patterns and dead brood to Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23
• stay up to date with the latest information by subscribing to the bee e-alert
• attend a training workshop to learn how to best manage varroa mite in your hives
• register as a biosecurity entity, whether you have one hive or 100
• use decontamination practices between apiaries and always come clean and leave clean
• keep up to date on movement restrictions for your intended destination before moving bees or equipment.

The Queensland Government is inspiring young minds with science programs to promote agricultural science as a rewarding, long-term career choice.

Thousands of students will explore the role of ‘insects in agriculture’ as they take part in a national school plant science competition.

Registrations are now open for the Department of Primary Industries’ 29th annual Hermitage Research Facility Schools Plant Science Competition.

This year, students will focus on the world of insects, gaining insights into biology, ecology and the environment while contributing to sustainable agricultural practices.

Interest is soaring so far this year with almost 3,000 students from 93 schools across the country already registered to take part.

Students can enter all three award categories: Plant Science Project Awards, Art in AgRiculTure Awards, or the Guardians of Earth Global BioQuest.

Registrations for school students to enter this year’s competition are open until 30 May 2025, with entries closing on Friday 27 June 2025. All entrants will be in the running for a selection of fantastic awards and prizes.

Winners will be announced on 21 August 2025 at the Hermitage Research Facility's annual Awards Day and Agricultural Science Expo in Warwick.

Client Services Officer, Kerrie Rubie said this year's competition will give students the opportunity to learn all about insects and the role they play in Australian agriculture and global food security.

“It is incredibly important that our younger generation are educated about the different types of insects, animals, and fungi, as well as the weeds and diseases that pose a threat to our environment and agricultural industries,” she said.

Students can get their creativity flowing in the Art in AgRiculTure Awards competition and get outdoors into nature with Guardians of Earth April Global BioQuest.

“Exciting competitions like this one are critical for sparking passion for our industry. I encourage students to get involved and have some fun while also learning about the importance of insects and their impact on agriculture and food security,” Ms Rubie said.

For more information and to enter, visit Hermitage Schools Plant Science Competition online or call 13 25 23.

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Floodwaters may have receded, but for North Queensland’s sugarcane farmers, the road to recovery is only just beginning. Damaged crops, washed-out paddocks, and ongoing uncertainty over disaster funding have left many wondering how they’ll rebuild in time for next season.

CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens has called on the Queensland Government to urgently amend disaster recovery grants to cover the cost of replanting—something current funding does not allow.

“Getting crops back in the ground is just as critical as repairing fences or sheds,” Mr Menkens said. “Other states recognise this and allow replanting costs to be covered under disaster funding. Queensland needs to do the same.”

Many farmers across the Burdekin and Herbert River regions have been forced to start from scratch after floodwaters lingered, destroying young cane plants. Adding to the challenge, some growers may be locked out of assistance altogether due to outdated definitions of a ‘primary producer.’

Under current rules, those who supplement their income through harvesting contracts—an essential part of the industry—could be deemed ineligible for disaster grants. Mr Menkens argues this must change.

“These growers aren’t just running farms; they’re providing vital services that keep the industry moving. When you shut them out of support, you don’t just hurt individual farmers—you hurt the whole supply chain.”

The issue has sparked a strong response from Kennedy MP Bob Katter, who has demanded immediate action from the state government, calling the delay in securing Category D funding unacceptable.

“It’s been a month since record-breaking floods hit, and we’re still waiting for the state government to do its job,” Mr Katter said.

“In past disasters, this process was immediate—yet here we are, left high and dry while our farmers struggle to survive.”

A cartoon by renowned illustrator Harry Bruce has summed up Mr Katter’s frustration, capturing his determination to fight for the region.

“This is a fight we won’t walk away from,” Mr Katter said.

“If we don’t get what we need in North Queensland, then God help you, Mr ALP/LNP.”

Mr Katter also extended his thanks to AgForce North, CANEGROWERS, Queensland Cane Agriculture & Renewables, Nick Dametto MP, and Hinchinbrook Shire Council Mayor Ramon Jayo for their ongoing advocacy on behalf of farmers.

QCAR is also backing the push, joining forces with CANEGROWERS and AgForce Queensland to demand that Prime Minister Anthony Albanese declare Category D funding.

QCAR Chairman Christian Lago stressed that financial relief wouldn’t just support farmers but entire regional economies.

“For every dollar the government spends on recovery assistance funding, it has a multiplier effect, lifting up everyone from the quarry operators to the mum and dad cafe owners,” Mr Lago said.

With pressure mounting from industry groups, politicians, and affected communities, the message is clear: Queensland farmers need real support, and they need it now.

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It was wonderful to see the many local business managers and owners who turned up at the meet and greet to see the Small Business Commissioner, Dominique Lamb that was held last Wednesday night at Lee’s Hotel. Unfortunately, due to the impending cyclone Alfred looming off the Brisbane coast, her trip was cut short. But the evening proved to be a valuable source of connection, as she heard stories and hardship from the attendees, while exchanging contact details and words of sympathy.

The Hinchinbrook Shire Council organised a wonderful night, where after the formal speeches and introductions, there was chatter and story swapping, while other leading organisations such as Rural Financial Counselling Services and the Department of Small and Family Business were introduced once again.

On the Chamber side of operations, 1-on-1 sessions with QRIDA representatives Sam Spina and Bill Fletcher are booked out at full capacity. More interest is being shown from businesses in the local community, and more sessions are currently being organised as a result.

Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce is also working closely with Officers from Rural Financial Counselling Services (RFCS) to organise 1-on-1 sessions, allowing business owners the chance to have their conversations in a private and discreet setting. RFCS work hand in hand with your already allocated financial advisors and accountants, while also offering the services of a Business Wellness Coach, who will assist where there is overwhelming stress and angst. More details of these sessions will come once preparations have been finalised. If you are interested in attending these sessions, please contact the Chamber to express your interest.

The Hinchinbrook community is now coming up to 6 weeks post flood, and it’s been fantastic to see, from Chamber’s side the determination and resilience radiating from the business community. Striving to not give up, and open those doors no matter what, to once again serve their community. Chamber commend you all! With each passing day, more and more shops are reopening; and with Easter fast approaching, getting the word out that Ingham is “open for business” has never been so important. Chamber has recently taken on a tourism based social media campaign stating these details, as they try to invite tourists back to our town.

Contributed with thanks to Chamber President Mary Brown

The Recovery Hub is closing on Saturday 15 March, this is because the Emergency Hardship Assistance and Essential Services Hardship Assistance grants will be closing at 11.59pm on Friday 14 March 2025.

Chair of Recovery Mary Brown said, although it is closing, it does not mean demand is not still there. While the immediate emergency response is winding down, the need for assistance remains, prompting discussions on how to ensure continued access to vital services.

As part of the Disaster Management Group there are two phases, response and recovery.

The recovery phase includes four specialised subgroups: Human and Social, Infrastructure, Environment, and Economic. Each subgroup is chaired by a council member and includes relevant stakeholders.

The recovery process began with an initial meeting on February 14, shortly after the disaster, to assess the impact on the community. These findings were then relayed to the Master Recovery Group and they are responsible for developing a comprehensive Recovery Action Plan, setting short, medium, and long-term goals.

A proposed ‘Recovery Hub’ has been named as all short, medium and a long-term goals.

The proposed hub would act as a permanent point of contact for both the community and visiting agencies, allowing for better coordination of resources. The aim is not to replace existing services but to provide a centralised location where government agencies, financial counsellors, and wellness coaches can operate when they visit the area. This approach ensures continued connectivity between those in need and the organisations that can assist them.

A key issue identified is the lack of a dedicated meeting space for agencies providing assistance. Many organisations visit the area to offer support but operate without a clear, accessible location. As a result, people in need may struggle to find them. The proposed hub aims to bring these services under one roof, ensuring that the community knows exactly where to go for help.

While an official name is still being determined to avoid confusion with the existing community recovery hub at TAFE, the initiative aims to provide a much needed centralised location for information, resources, and support services.

On Tuesday, dependent upon what happens with Ex-Cyclone Alfred, I will be attending the Local Government Association of Queensland Civic Leaders Summit in Brisbane. The Summit is an informative platform that brings together all the Mayors in Queensland, politicians and specialist advisers enabling insight into emerging issues, innovative solutions to issues and exchange of ideas through networking with colleagues and government.

Matters that will be discussed include the agenda for making insurance more affordable and a funding increase for Local Governments through the Australian Federal Government Assistance Grants.

Tragic stories emanating from the recent floods endured in our district are confirming the fact that more and more people are forgoing insurance on their properties, due to significant cost increases over recent years and also as a means of cutting costs for household budgets with the current cost of living crisis. Issues to be examined include greater transparency in how prices, particularly for flood insurance, are set by insurers and accounting for resilience and natural hazard mitigation processes.

In relation to the Federal Assistance Grants, did you know that local government only receives around three cents in every dollar of taxation revenue, compared to around eighty cents for the federal government and around seventeen cents for the state. The percentage payable to local government has not increased in the past twenty years despite local government, as the government closest to the people, enduring more and more responsibility for delivery of essential services to their communities through continuous state and federal cost shifting practices.

In a report released only last year by the Local Government Association of Queensland, it was identified that in 2002, the financial impact of services shifted onto ratepayers by upper levels of government over a period of twelve months was estimated to be $47 million. Two decades on, this has increased by a whopping 378 percent to around $360 million over one year. Communities cannot afford for this cost shift to continue. Cuts and cost shifts to local Council’s are cuts to the community.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of southeast Queensland whom have been impacted by Ex-Cyclone Alfred. We are fully aware of what you are going through and sympathise with your current situation. We hope that you remain as safe as possible and wish you a speedy recovery.

Edith
I think maybe something similar to the Strand in Townsville would be more suitable for the young ones. I know there are a lot of sports or whatever they can get into, and even on weekends, they can go down the beach. Maybe something similar to the Strand in Townsville would be better, with slippery slides and water things the kids can play in. But I haven’t the faintest idea how to get this.

Lynette Croton
I'd like to see a playground for the kids in the park there, with a water feature. I was only talking about that the other day. It'd be nice to have something in the park where the kids could just run through beside their swings.

Jenny Christiansen
Probably more things to do for the young people and keep them in town,
more employment and then some sort of entertainment, just something to keep kids in town, would be good. I’m not sure how that could happen, but maybe it could be government funding.

Shaun Jones
I’m pretty new here, but as is the case anywhere, I’d like to see more things for young people. But I find it pretty good at the moment, it’s casual, family feel, and pretty laid back. The rain sucked but it’s a good little place, good position, nice and warm, and plenty of work.

Joe Pennisi
I think David Crisafulli is probably doing the right thing, but maybe getting people to lift all the air conditioning and stuff like that would be good. I think we're never going to get away from floods. So let's just make it easier for people to clean up and get started again.

Brian Newman
Obviously, there's quite a lot for aged care. I think we're going pretty well as far as I’m concerned. There's definitely a need for things for young people; sporting facilities are finding it hard to find committee members. But I think the Council and lots of groups have been trying to get more things for the local area, but it all costs money.

Gina Parr
I love Ingham. The people are great, there’s lots of help, and it's not busy. I don't have any complaints about Ingham whatsoever. Absolutely not. My grandson goes to the local school, which is absolutely amazing, but I have no complaints other than being flooded the other day, where we're not supposed to have been flooded. Otherwise, I've got no complaints, absolutely none.

Allan Colquhoun
A place for the old folks to get together, they do get together here, but a lot of them haven't got the money to buy a cup of coffee, see where that house is, there, that's ideally placed. Somebody owns it, but if a charity got together and they own that, the old folks could get downstairs and sort of have a yak.