From day one of the floods Lahtinen Electrical & Refrigeration had one primary focus, coordinating with the Council, local Disaster Management, Ergon Energy and the Army to maintain the town’s water.

Although it was challenging, thankfully they were able to successfully maintain the district’s supply throughout the entire flood.

Other priorities in the early days included connecting and maintaining the generators to the hospital, Woolworths and fuel stations. This involved helicopter trips into town, being ferried around town by Swift Water Rescue as well as midnight truck trips through floodwaters.

Karen Lahtinen said it was an incredibly challenging time.

“Flood recovery has also been extremely busy, working long days and through the weekends making hundreds of businesses and homes electrically safe for power restoration,” she added.

Customer of Lahtinen Electrical Nathan Adcock praised their work during the flooding event.

“Lahtinen Electrical installed 11kW of batteries, a 7.5kW inverter and 10kW of solar panels to our home three years ago and during the recent flood and subsequent power outage, our system performed beyond our expectations," he said.

"Even during the heaviest of rainy days (Sunday and Monday) our system supplied power for lights, fans, tv, two fridges and freezers and a hot water system. As well as seeing a 40% battery charge to supply our nighttime power usage.

"By Tuesday, we were seeing slightly more sunlight and were able to run our air-conditioners.

"Lahtinen Electrical were great to deal with and able to help with any questions we had regarding system performance. There is also peace of mind knowing they are a local contractor you can contact if there is ever a problem with the system.”

Generators

Customers who had had generator inlets installed in their main switchboard were easily able to switch over to generator supply when the power went out. Depending on the generator size you could run your whole house or choose to easily turn separate circuits on and off.

A 2.5kVA generator is good to keep fridges and lights running ensuring essentials stay powered, however larger houses or those looking to run larger loads such as a bedroom aircon or additional appliances should look for 5kVA or larger.

Batteries

Some people in the region had solar and a battery system installed.

These people were able to run large loads, cooking appliances, and also had the benefit of not having to rely on petrol to keep the house running, many people experienced that fuel was in very short supply.

Batteries automatically switch on when the power goes off so if you are not home, there is no need to worry. Karen also noted that people are pleasantly surprised to find their batteries charged even in overcast conditions.

Contributed with thanks to Karen Lahtinen

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Sans Souci Apartments has been restored to boutique heritage accommodation which offers guests an unparalleled accommodation experience.

Originally built in the mid-20th century, this historic building once provided a welcoming first home for newly arrived migrants seeking a fresh start in the region. Over time, the building fell into disrepair—until its current owners saw an opportunity to breathe new life into this cherished landmark.

With a deep appreciation for history and a vision for the future, the owners embarked on a meticulous restoration, preserving the building’s unique character while thoughtfully enhancing it for today’s travellers. The name "Sans Souci," meaning "without worries," perfectly embodies the experience offered here - a place where guests can truly unwind, free from the stresses of the outside world.

Sans Souci Apartment's careful restoration highlights original features, while incorporating contemporary luxuries to ensure a seamless blend of old-world charm and modern convenience. Each apartment has been carefully curated with decor that honours the building’s past while providing a warm and inviting atmosphere.

What truly sets Sans Souci Apartments apart is the passion and hospitality of its owners, they bring a distinctive flair to their approach, creating an experience that goes beyond accommodation.

Their commitment extends beyond the walls of the apartments — they are dedicated to contributing to the region’s economic growth, fostering local employment, and strengthening community connections.

From the moment you arrive, you’ll experience a level of warmth and attentiveness that turns a simple stay into something truly special.

For bookings visit www.sanssouciapartments.com.au

Contributed with thanks to Adam Rowland

Local farmers and industry representatives are continuing their fight for increased disaster relief funding as they struggle with the severe impacts of recent weather events.

At a recent meeting, concerns were raised about the urgent need to move from Category C to Category D assistance, which would provide greater financial support to those affected.

One major issue is the definition of a 'farmer' under the scheme. An example is if a business derives 51% of its gross income from its harvesting business and 49% from the farming business, it is deemed not eligible for farm business assistance. This has left some primary producers without financial aid, despite suffering significant damage to their farm. Many farming businesses undertake multiple activities to service debt and to make ends meet.

Representatives have been actively lobbying government officials at both state and federal levels to escalate the disaster classification. However, the process requires a recommendation from the state government before it can be approved by the Prime Minister. So far, despite four weeks passing since the disaster, no Category D funding has been granted, leaving affected farmers in a precarious situation.

QCAR Herbert District Manager Lawrence Di Bella said all farmers should apply for the current grant and they will continue to try and achieve Category D funding.

“This is some of the worst impact we have seen, especially on infrastructure, washouts, roads, and lands,” he added.

AgForce North Regional Director Michael Penna noted that during Cyclone Jasper north of Ingham received Category D funding within a week, but here in the Herbert District this disaster has been listed as Category C for four weeks.

AgForce North East Regional Manager Katie Malouf said if the grant does get upgraded to a Category D it will require additional paperwork, but a new grant will not be needed.

“They can start up their application now and then they can upgrade,” she said.

“They only get paid for what they spend. They've got to spend the money, then you give the receipts. It gets quantified that that is a receipt that you've spent on damage, and then you get the money back.”

Local resident, Moiya Finocchiaro contacted the paper to let us know about two individuals in the community that she feels deserve to be acknowledged for their selfless actions during the floods.

When floodwaters rose around a community of elderly residents in Ingham, two women stepped forward to offer much-needed assistance, providing support that has left a lasting impact on those they helped.

Moiya Finocchiaro, a 79-year-old resident at the Apex Units recalls how Lea Vincenzi and Carina Chesson went out of their way to ensure the safety and well-being of her and her neighbours, many of whom were left isolated and without power during the crisis.

Moiya said that Lea drove through flood waters and announced “Excuse me, is there anything I can do to assist you?”

Moiya said that Carina allowed residents to charge their phones and even watch the news on a tablet.

“It was just something from the outside world, and we could see what other people were suffering too,” explained Moiya.

“We then realised that we were quite happy here - we all assisted each other as much as we could."

Almost four weeks later and Moiya says the residents of the Apex Units are still talking about the selfless acts of the two women helpers.

“I would like to thank them. This is the future of Ingham. Ingham will never die while we have these type of women to carry on and that's the truth of it," expressed Moiya.

“They had their own problems, but they took their time out to come to 22 people that they didn't know.”

Hinchinbrook Shire Council has advised that Wallaman Falls Road will remain closed until further notice due to significant damage caused by recent heavy rainfall.

The extent of the damage has made the road impassable, and authorities are urging travellers to avoid the area until repairs can be completed.

Council has stressed that there is no access to Wallaman Falls at this time, and visitors planning a trip to the popular natural attraction will need to make alternative arrangements.

Safety remains a top priority, and engineers will assess the extent of the damage before any timelines for reopening can be provided.

Wallaman Falls is Australia’s tallest single-drop waterfall and it is a key tourist destination in the Hinchinbrook region, drawing visitors from across the country.

Located 51 kilometres south-west of Ingham this stunning waterfall is a highly popular destination for locals and travellers alike.

Whilst repairs to the road are pending, the council encourages travellers to explore other attractions in the area.

Stay updated by going to Queensland National Parks website and visiting the Park Alerts page.

During the recent floods, Optimise Health and Wellness played a critical role in ensuring vulnerable community members received the care they needed. Despite widespread disruptions, the organisation remained operational, implementing emergency management strategies and strategically positioning staff across affected areas to provide continuous healthcare services.

Director and Mental Health Occupational Therapist Kara Christopher highlighted their efforts in supporting isolated individuals.

“One of our participants with Parkinson’s was alone and cut off from services, but our team maintained regular phone check-ins and worked with local stakeholders to ensure he was safe and supported. Knowing someone was checking in on him made all the difference,” she said.

Beyond direct client care, Kara was also involved in the Community Recovery Centre, to be able to offer mental health services to more people, not just clients of Optimise Health and Wellness.

Kara provided mental health support to residents processing the emotional toll of the disaster. She noted that people experienced lots of loss and a sense of being trapped.

“Having the opportunity to sit and normalise and discuss, that helps. And it's been kind of humbling to be able to sit and be part of that process and work through with people and to work within the broader team."

Despite the trauma of the event, Kara also said that Ingham residents are resilient and there are always people that believe someone is worse off than them. As a local Kara says she had heard about how caring the Ingham community is, but to witness it first-hand during the floods was incredibly uplifting.

In addition to crisis response, Optimise Health and Wellness provides a range of essential healthcare services year-round. They have been operational since 2018 and offer allied health support, including occupational therapy, psychology, exercise physiology, and therapy assistance. Their team works closely with NDIS and aged care, they mostly work with vulnerable people in the community.

With a strong focus on accessibility and person-centred care, Optimise Health and Wellness continues to be a pillar of support for the community, ensuring that healthcare services are available when and where they are needed.

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The Ingham Palliative Care Group received a substantial donation this week thanks to the broader community and one kind local man who selflessly decided to pay it forward.

During the flooding event Halifax local Jason Valastro travelled into Ingham via helicopter every day for work at a local retail store.

This enormous commitment to work did not go unnoticed by the local community with many personally donating money to Jason to help with any additional costs he incurred during this time.

Jason appreciated the kind donations but, instead of putting it in his back pocket, this kind man decided to pass the money forward, donating instead to another worthwhile charity.

Jason has donated the funds, $515.05, to Ingham Palliative Care.

“I believe it's a good cause,” explained Jason.

Juliene Collins accepted the money on behalf of her daughter Tammy. Along with others, the pair actively fundraise for Ingham Palliative Care and ensure every dollar is put towards helping those suffering in the community.

“Thank you, Jason, for your kind donation. It's greatly appreciated and it will be put to very good use to our local Ingham Palliative Care,” she said.

"Just recently, palliative care have bought a bus, the Hurley Bus and my daughter, Tammy, and myself and our little crew have pledged to Palliative Care that we will keep fundraising to keep the Hurley Bus running."

The Hurley Bus has been running since December, and is used to transport frail and palliative pateinets to and from medical appointments. But the bus is not only to be used for medical appointments, it can be used for absolutely anything.

Nick Dametto MP Member for Hinchinbrook said the gesture was a fantastic contribution and that Ingham Palliative Care do a great job in our region.

Simon Hood
Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

February was a positive month for prices with growers using the rally to tidy up 2024 season Target and GMPRS pricing.

Additionally, with 2025 season prices breaking through $650/t, there has been increased scale up selling from Target price growers. There is, however, still plenty of 2025 pricing to go with only about 25 per cent of Target prices locked in at this point.

The rally has also allowed our 2024 season pools to be forecasting higher returns. We have incrementally locked in prices on the rising market to ensure any potential correction will have less impact on final returns for the 2024 season. Likewise, we have initiated hedging on the #11 sugar contract to put a floor under a portion of the new Managed Pool Plus for the 2025 season.

This initial positioning combined with some sub 62 cent currency is providing a good foundation for that pool return. However, there is still a long way to go for 2025 season pool valuations to be finalised. With the focus on 2025 season and beyond, let’s have a quick review of the current outlook.

Most analysts are currently forecasting a small production surplus (Wilmar 3.5m tonnes) for the 2025-26 season based on a large Brazilian and Indian crop. Brazilian forecasts are starting to be scaled back as continued dry weather through February downgrade yield expectations. On the flip side, Indian forecasts are being maintained as high domestic prices encourage crop expansion and a very good monsoon filled storage and moisture profiles.

Nominations for our 2025 season GMPRS pricing mechanism are now open. This remains a popular choice among Target price growers due the flexibility of being able to price all GEI sugar exposure – excluding the US quota proportion – from mid-May in each season. Typically, growers are cautious about pricing too much of the final proportion early in the season as price risk is replaced with production shortfall risk.

During March we will be holding a series of shed meetings to update growers with the latest analysis from Wilmar on the outlook for 2025 season and beyond. Get in touch with your local Wilmar Grower Marketing consultant to find your closest meeting.

The local community felt the full force of support from around the state when Clubs Queensland presented a cheque for $75K at a special event held at Herbert River Sub Branch RSL last Friday afternoon.

Money had been raised by community clubs across the state and kindly donated to the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre to help instigate flood recovery and enable local services to get back up and running.

Mayor of Hinchinbrook Shire Council Mayor Ramon Jayo attended the event where good cheer and merriment was shared with the community with the 'Have a beer on us!' initiative hosted by XXXX.

The Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre is a well-known establishment in Ingham and their work has been recognised.

At the ‘Have a Beer on Us’ event at the Herbert River Sub Branch RSL – Ingham the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre received a donation of $75,000, donated from clubs around Queensland.

The Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre CEO Linda McClelland said she was delighted with the donation.

“It makes my heart lighten at the fact that in the moment of need and when we are faced with this adversity, that the generosity of clubs, who in some instances have suffered themselves, step up and say it's really important that we get services back running to support community,” she said.

“We will be utilising the funds to restore some of our services that have taken a bit of a hit from the flooding, so hopefully we will get back to business as we were before.

“With this generous donation, hopefully we will be able to not only restore our services but rebuild them and make them stronger.”

CEO of Clubs Queensland Kelly Egan said he understands the work that they do and knows that the donation will benefit the community.

“We like to think it will make a significant difference to Linda and the team out there, we know what they do,” he said.

“They support in any way, shape or form, as part of this community, 365, days a year.

"The club industry relies on the community to come in its front doors, and we value that. So, this is just our little way of giving back.”

XXXX were also present at the ‘Have a Beer on Us’ event, they contributed to the donation and also kindly covered the bar tab.

“Putting on an event today, putting on beers and drinks, we just hope, through something like that, we can share a cheer across the community. I just think it's the least we can we can do,” said XXXX State Manager Marc Woolnough.

“The spirit that we have seen here with the flood recovery is something that we really appreciate, and we felt strongly enough about it to be here today and contribute in a very small way.”

Two clubs from Townsville also contributed to the donation.

Operations Manager of Brothers Leagues Club Barrett Wherry said it made sense to help the Ingham and Hinchinbrook community.

“The Ingham community is really close to Townsville, and it just makes sense to help out, we have already made a donation to the local rugby league club, and we're just happy to help out the people in the community and help them get back on their feet,” said Barrett Wherry.

General Manager from the Cowboys Leagues Club Clint Williams said after the flooding that hit Townsville in 2019, he understands what the Ingham community have gone through.

“Having gone through the floods in 2019 in Townsville we knew what it was like and we got plenty of support from the community and Ingham is right in our backyard. So we wanted to make sure we could support it as much as possible,” he said.

“Clubs are all about supporting the community, there's a pretty big cheque being presented today, and that's from clubs all over Queensland.

“Whilst Ingham is in our backyard, clubs from the south east corner of Central Queensland, they've also contributed and I think that's what clubs are all about, making sure we're here for our community and supporting them as much as possible.”

I recently had the privilege of attending school leader induction ceremonies at Ingham State School, Our lady of Lourdes and Gilroy Santa Maria College. Following the events of the past few weeks, it was wonderful to see all the smiling and happy students as they were preparing to be inducted as the 2025 School Leaders for their respective schools.

Congratulations to you all on your achievements and I wish you all the best for the year ahead as you enter your final year of primary and secondary schooling. I believe the schools are in good hands.

Late last week we received a briefing from the Department of National Parks and Wildlife concerning the present state of parks in the Hinchinbrook Shire. Unfortunately, roads into the parks have been significantly damaged and substantial earthwork and bridge infrastructure repairs are required. Access to the Jourama Falls day area has been achieved but the access track to the falls remains closed. Council is endeavouring to remediate Wallaman Falls Road as quickly as possible, but vegetation and slippage is problematic at present. The road into Broadwater will require bridge repairs, and at this stage it is not expected that this road will re-open in the near future.

Council has been in discussion with the Insurance Council of Australia and has been informed that home restoration and repair work for homes damaged in the recent flood events is well underway throughout the district. Demolition waste will be shredded to pulp as much as possible to ensure that the remaining life of the Warrens Hill waste facility is not compromised significantly by space wastage. The Insurance Council has informed that for the present, most work is able to be performed whilst residents remain in situ, thus alleviating the need for temporary accommodation requirements. This situation will be monitored as work progresses.

For any residents that may have a need for assistance, please remember that the Recovery Hubs are still in operation at Ingham and Halifax and that much information on the services to assist can be obtained at such locations.

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Pelorus Island, also known as North Palm Island, is a pristine paradise nestled within the Great Palm Island group. Pelorus Island boasts magnificent fringing reefs, making it a haven for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts. You can explore breathtaking underwater views of marine life right off the beach. Soft corals like sea whips and fans coexist with plate and boulder corals. The changing currents ensure that every day brings new marine wonders. In winter, keep an eye out for colourful tropical reef fish, leopard rays, guitar sharks, turtles, and manta rays. The northern part of the island is a hotspot for spotting dolphins and whales between mid-July and early November.  The island is managed by the Hinchinbrook Shire Council, with its fragile environment protected by both state and federal environmental provisions. Permission from Parks Australia is not needed for camping, but there are no facilities or freshwater on the island, so all provisions need to be taken there.

The Herbert River catchment is the largest in the Wet Tropics region and the longest coastal river in North Queensland. The Herbert River Improvement Trust (HRIT) area is on the lower catchment flood plain which experiences regular flooding events due to the significant local rainfall, as well as the impacts of rain in the Upper Herbert catchment which extends approximately 200km north of the Hinchinbrook Shire with an area of over 10,000 km2. The river’s substantial historic shifts and mobility across the lower floodplain present unique management challenges, with legacy wetlands, flood channels and tributaries, and groundwater flows creating a river system unlike any other connected to the Great Barrier Reef lagoon.

The HRIT was established in 1942 under the River Improvement Trust Act 1940 in response to recurring major flood events. As a statutory body, it operates with public funding to provide vital flood mitigation and river management services, often at no cost or significantly reduced rates. The Hinchinbrook Shire Council remains the primary fund provider, with funding indirectly levied across the community. The Queensland Flood Risk Management Framework recognises the crucial role of River Improvement Trusts in both flood risk management and disaster recovery efforts.

The primary role of the HRIT is to plan, design, finance, undertake and maintain improvement works to benefit the community within its ‘river improvement area’ – the Hinchinbrook Local Government Area. Today, HRITs role has expanded beyond flood response to include preventive and restorative actions, aligning with the State’s emerging focus on climate resilience and coastal hazard adaptation, in coordination with local government and the Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG).

HRIT’s mission is clear; to improve water flow in rivers and tributaries within the Hinchinbrook Shire, correct erosion, and provide effective flood mitigation. Since its inception, the Trust has undertaken river improvement works at over 500 sites, including major flood mitigation projects such as the Ripple and Catherina Creeks’ flood gates, the Foresthome flood channel, and the Halifax Town Levee. Additional projects have focused on streambank repair, stabilisation, and revegetation, from major river systems like the Herbert and Stone Rivers to smaller creeks throughout the region.

The recent flooding event in the Hinchinbrook District has once again highlighted the importance of HRIT’s work. The Trust is currently inspecting and assessing widespread damage to rivers and streams, with plans to secure grant funding from relevant State Government departments, potentially under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

If you have any concerns or questions, please contact the HRIT Secretary via email admin@hrit.com.au. A  list of HRIT members and their contact details is available on the Hinchinbrook Shire Council website.

Recovery will take time, but as a community, we will rebuild. Please take care of yourselves listen to each other and do not suffer in silence.

Wednesday 5 March
Morning Melodies: Billy and Barry in Concert
Wednesday 10:30am
Thomas Armstrong-Robley starring in: Two of the greatest piano men of all time, Billy Joel and Barry Manilow come together in a unique and spectacular celebration of their beloved music & lyrics.
JL Kelly Theatre

Saturday 8 March
Ingham Conroy Hall Markets
Saturday 7:30am
Come one, come all to one of Hinchinbrook’s longest running market events, Conroy Hall Markets! Browse a selection of stalls retailing plants, antiques, clothes, handmade delights, and more!
Conroy Hall

Saturday 15 March
International Soprano Sensation Mirusia in Celebration
Saturday 5pm
International Soprano Sensation MIRUSIA in 40th Birthday Celebration Concert by Andre Rieu's Star Soprano!
JL Kelly Theatre

Sunday 16 March
Ingham Raintree Community Markets
Sunday 7am
A morning of Sunday market fun awaits at Ingham’s Rotary Park with the Ingham Raintree Community Markets!
Rotary Park, Ingham

Saturday 22 March
Ingham Up Town Markets
Saturday 8am
Enjoy a morning browsing the talents of the Hinchinbrook community at the Ingham Up Town Markets from 8am to midday!
Lannercost Street

Saturday 22 March
Baby Welcoming Ceremony
Saturday 9am
Each new baby that has arrived in the community over the past twelve months will receive a Welcoming Certificate, Sapling and a Gift Bag. Parents can plant their sapling to commemorate their new baby and watch as they both grow, providing for the future prosperity of the Hinchinbrook Shire. Enjoy a fun filled morning of yummy food, sensory play, arts and crafts for the whole family.
Hinchinbrook Shire Library

Tuesday 25 March
‘In Good Audience’
Tuesday 6:30pm
The Ingham Theatre Group is excited to present ‘In Good Audience’ at the JL Kelly Theatre in March 2024.
JL Kelly Theatre

Wednesday 26 March
‘In Good Audience’
Wednesday 6:30pm
The Ingham Theatre Group is excited to present ‘In Good Audience’ at the JL Kelly Theatre in March 2024.
JL Kelly Theatre

While many natural tourist spots are closed due to inaccessibility caused by recently flooding, Hinchinbrook Island remains open.

Hinchinbrook Island is a breathtaking haven of unspoiled natural beauty, it offers an unparalleled escape into the wild, boasting rugged mountains, lush rainforests, beautiful waterfalls and secluded beaches.

Thorsborne Trail
The Thorsborne Trail is Hinchinbrook Islands main attraction, the 32-kilometre long hike takes adventurers anywhere between three to five days to complete. During the hot summer months 1 January – 28 February the trail is closed. The Thorsborne Trail attracts avid hikers from across the country. On the trail adventures catch glimpse of mangroves, forests, beaches, waterfalls and mountains. The 32-kilometre long trail is not for the average walker either, it is difficult trail and is categorised as a Class 5 hiking experience.

Currently only 40 people are able to walk the Thorsborne Trail at the same time, but upgrades to come will allow 60 people to do the walk. With the limited number allowed to access the trail at one time, it makes it an extremely popular and sought after attraction. But if you don’t fancy a three-to-five-day hike, day trips are also available.

Zoe Falls
Day trips are available to Hinchinbrook Island too, and Zoe Falls is the most recognisable places on Hinchinbrook Island. Spend time at the waterfall and jump into the refreshing waters, or venture a bit further to catch one of the best views on the island. Sit back in one of the rock pools and look out at the view before you.

Mulligan falls
Mulligan Falls is also a popular destination on the island for day trippers, the picturesque waterfall has a deep swimming hole, perfect for a quick dip. However although the pool is safe to swim in, anything further is restricted.

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Zoefalls - Nearby Zoe Falls is this breathtaking view
thorsbornetrail - The Thorsborne Trail is a 32 kilometre long hike that takes you across beaches, forests and waterfalls