Hinchinbrook’s Kylee Frankee has been awarded the Exceptional Tradeswoman, Technician, and Operator Award at the 2025 BMA Mitsubishi Alliance Queensland Resources Council (QRC) and Women in Mining and Resources Queensland (WIMARQ) Awards. With 16 years of experience as an Electrical and Instrument Technician, Kylee has earned a reputation for her expertise, leadership, and dedication to supporting apprentices and advocating for mental health in the workplace. A passionate mentor, she also champi
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If your child was born after March 2024, the Hinchinbrook Shire Council warmly invites your family to attend the 2025 Baby Welcoming Ceremony at the Hinchinbrook Shire Library. At this special event, your little one will be officially welcomed as a member of the Hinchinbrook community by the Mayor. Each family will receive a gift bag, a personalised certificate, and a commemorative sapling to symbolise the setting down of new roots and the special new bud added to your family tree. Parents and
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This year, Ingham Post Office is celebrating 90 years of service and keeping regional Queensland connected. Built in 1935, the post office has become one of the region’s most prominent community hubs and was added to the Australian Commonwealth Heritage List in 2012. Over the decades, it has connected generations of locals through letters, telegrams, phone calls, and now digital services. The region’s postal history dates back to 1871, when services began with a steamer mail run from Cardwell a
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Dawn Service - Ingham 4:15am the DAWN PARADE will assemble at Mafeking Tree, opposite the Police Station. At the service conclusion all those attending are invited to the RSL Club for breakfast. RSL Remembrance Ceremony - Ingham 6:00am a ceremony will be conducted at the Ingham War Cemetery by the Herbert River Sub-branch of the Returned Service League of Australia. Commemoration Ceremony - Forrest Beach 7:00am a commemoration ceremony will be conducted at the Forrest Beach Memorial. Parade a
Read the full storyQueensland’s waterways are home to one of nature’s most formidable predators: the crocodile. Since gaining protection in 1971, crocodile populations have steadily increased, making these prehistoric creatures a vital part of the ecosystem. However, they also pose risks to residents and visitors, especially in areas like Hinchinbrook.
Crocodiles are an iconic part of Far North Queensland's identity, but their presence often sparks divisive debates. Sightings along the coast highlight the challenge of balancing coexistence with managing their potential dangers. Federal Member for Kennedy, Bob Katter MP, has advocated for crocodile culls, arguing that rising populations put human lives at risk. Others stress education and responsible behaviour, noting that some attacks may be caused by human actions, such as feeding crocodiles or getting too close to the water’s edge.
Regardless of one’s stance on crocodile culling, statistics show a growing number of crocodile sightings across Queensland.
Hinchinbrook, renowned for its natural beauty and outdoor adventures, is no stranger to the challenges posed by crocodiles. As a popular destination for fishing, camping, and eco-tourism, the region requires heightened awareness and vigilance.
Recent reports from the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science, and Innovation highlight the urgent need for both residents and visitors to stay cautious and follow safety guidelines.
In Hinchinbrook alone, eight sightings have been reported recently, while Cairns and Townsville recorded 43 and 31 sightings, respectively, in the past 30 days, according to the crocodile sighting dashboard.
Stay Croc-safe
The Queensland Government’s "Be Croc-wise" initiative provides important guidelines to reduce the risk of crocodile attacks:
• Stay at least five meters from the water’s edge and use barriers like logs or eskies if needed.
• Properly dispose of food scraps and bait to avoid attracting crocodiles.
• Keep pets on a leash and away from the water.
• Avoid small watercraft in crocodile-prone areas.
• Swim only at patrolled beaches where crocodiles are less likely.
Crocodiles can be found in all waterways and oceans in Croc country and just because you can’t see it, it doesn’t mean there isn’t one nearby and it can’t see you.
With the right education and knowledge, Croc country is still a wonder and a great place for adventuring.
To report a sighting, use the QWildlife app, visit the website, or call 1300 130 372. In emergencies, dial 000 or 112. Your vigilance can contribute to the safe management of crocodile populations.
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