The St Rita’s Gala Ball was held on Friday night. Photos supplied  

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Current and former students of St Rita’s School Babinda, alongside the wider community from near and far, came together over the weekend to celebrate 100 years of faith, connection and education.

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Celebrations kicked off on Friday night with a special Gala Ball, attracting more than 100 guests.

Dressed in formal attire, attendees marked the significant milestone with an evening of music, food and friendship.

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Local band Riff Raff kept the dancefloor busy, while a three-course dinner catered by Roscoes was a highlight of the night.

School Principal Michael Rowe said it was an honour to bring the community together to celebrate such a special occasion.

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“People from all walks of life attended,” he said.

“A lot of past alumni, and we even had some from our sister school, St Rita’s South Johnstone.

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“It was a special time to reflect and celebrate how far we’ve come over the years, and a time to think about the future as well.

“It’s great to see so many people proud of their schooling here.”

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The celebrations continued on Saturday, beginning with a 10am Mass, followed by a special roll call and ceremonial cake cutting.

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Families then enjoyed an afternoon of festivities, with a jumping castle, face painting and food trucks adding to the fun for younger attendees.

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More coverage of the centenary celebrations will appear in next week’s paper.

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The Mt Fox community rally members holding their protest banners. Signs about the project are prevalent in the Mt Fox area. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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By Victoria Velton

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Residents, wildlife carers and environmental advocates gathered at Mt Fox last Saturday to voice concerns about the proposed Gawara Baya wind farm, warning that the development, located just 4.8 kilometres from the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area, could permanently alter a landscape they say is critical to local wildlife and the survival of vulnerable species.

The concerns voiced by attendees who live and work among the surrounding bushland include the clearing of habitat, potential increased traffic on narrow rural roads, noise and disturbance to wildlife and the spread of feral predators.

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Mt Fox Community Progress Association president Kim Armstrong said the community was facing a significant decision about the future of its environment.

“This is a very significant moment in our area. Do we stand up and protect our natural environment or do we stand by and allow it to be destroyed?” Ms Armstrong asked.

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One of the most immediate concerns raised at the rally came from local wildlife carer Brandie Becke, who said the area had provided a relatively safe environment for releasing rehabilitated animals back into the wild.

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Ms Becke said she had chosen Mt Fox because of its quiet roads, surrounding national park and extensive Crown land.

She fears the proposed wind farm's construction and operation could undermine those conditions, particularly if traffic increases substantially on the region's gravel roads.

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“We might have around 50 cars at a really busy time, but we're going to end up with around 250, 300 vehicles travelling around on our roads,” Ms Becke alleged.

She described the roads as potholed and narrow, with limited separation between roadways, private properties and protected areas. She said increased traffic could pose a serious risk to animals accustomed to moving freely through the area, particularly if drivers unfamiliar with the roads were travelling through more frequently and at greater speed.

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Ms Becke also stressed that land clearing could remove important habitat and leave animals with fewer safe places to move.

“I brought [the animals] up here so I could release our animals into a safe environment,” she said.

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“What am I doing now? I'm just putting them back in the exact same situation that they came from in the beginning.”

Noise and disturbance were also raised as concerns, with Ms Becke arguing that the effects of industrial development on wildlife could extend well beyond what people are able to hear.

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She said she feared the impacts would not be limited to mammals and marsupials, but could also affect frogs, lizards, birds and other wildlife, including through disruption to breeding.

The potential effects of low-frequency noise on animal communication were another focus of the rally. Dr Roger Martin, a wildlife ecologist and biologist who has studied koalas since 1977, spoke extensively on the noise effects of the turbines, arguing that wind turbine noise could mask calls used by native animals to communicate.

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These concerns were raised alongside broader questions about habitat fragmentation and whether wildlife would continue to be able to move safely through the landscape if development expanded across the ranges.

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Other speakers included photographer and bushwalker Steven Nowakowski, who spoke about development planned for the region, and poet and carpenter Ardi Arda, who attended to show support and love for the community. Mr Nowakowski also read a letter from Jeanette Kemp, a former Queensland Government principal botanist.

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The rally also drew support from Martine Shephard, who travelled from Western Australia, where she is involved in campaigns concerning proposed developments at Geographe Bay and Kalbarri. She spoke about the experience of communities confronting large-scale industrial projects and brought a message of solidarity to the Mt Fox residents.

Ms Shephard was credited with the slogan “Vikings Go Home”, which appeared on banners held by protesters.

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Beyond the immediate footprint of the proposed Gawara Baya project, speakers expressed concern about the cumulative effects of wind farm developments across mountain ranges, arguing that individual projects should not be considered in isolation when assessing their potential effects on wildlife corridors and connected ecosystems.

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They also questioned the arrangements for rehabilitating land after construction and decommissioning turbines at the end of their operational lives. Speakers raised concerns about what would happen to infrastructure left behind and whether adequate restoration and rewilding plans would be in place.

The potential attraction of feral predators to construction and maintenance roads was another issue raised. Speakers warned that increased roadkill could provide an additional food source for predators such as cats, adding pressure to rare and endangered wildlife already affected by habitat disturbance.

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According to Windlab, the company behind the proposal, biodiversity will be a key consideration throughout the project.  

“Gawara Baya has been designed to preserve almost 99% of potential habitat across its host cattle property for the life of the project,” their resources state.  

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“More than that, Gawara Baya will be the first renewable energy project in Australia to be delivered with a robust, measurable program for achieving biodiversity net-gain. 

“This is part of our long-term, beyond compliance commitment to doing more for nature. Our approach is informed by more than 8,000 hours of detailed ecology studies and four years’ in-depth stakeholder consultation, collaboration and codesign.

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“In Australia, Australia’s energy generation sector is by far our nation’s biggest source of greenhouse gases emissions. Decarbonising our energy system is the clear action we must take to address the compounding effects of climate change, including biodiversity decline.

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“At the same time, Windlab has committed to leading practice ecological restoration and threat abatement programs that not only address the local scale impacts of the project, but support overall better outcomes for regional biodiversity at a landscape scale.”

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Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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‍By Victoria Velton

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Welcome to the Cutting The Cane, a column where we have a chat with those supporting the backbone of the local economy: the farmers behind the sugar. This week Dave Perkins, a farmer of 63 years, answered our questions on his trial tissue culture operations.

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What stage are your paddocks at now?

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The paddock, the normal plant, was planted about two and a half months ago, and the tissue culture was planted about five weeks ago.

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What varieties of tissue culture are you trialling?

I've planted all the new varieties that SRA give us. But I still keep going on with the old ones. I went back to a few Q 96 this year. That's not tissue culture, but that was some plants I bought just to see how they would perform. We used to grow a lot of Q 96 here before.

So, I’ve got a mix of old variety and the new variety that's come out this year. I don't trust the new varieties too much. So, I always have a fallback one.

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Why have you chosen the varieties that you've growing?

Because I know they grow well here. I got Q 96 this year because even though it's an old variety, our farm here used to grow about 60% Q 96. Though I might only have one trailer for next year. That's about it. It’s a very sweet variety.

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When you look to buy or trial new cane varieties, what are your priorities?

I like to get a variety that's smut resistant. Other than that, I asked my friend Darrin Harrigan, who started me on tissue culture about four years ago and he hasn't led me astray. I like a variety that's going to ratoon well, that's the main thing: ratooning well. If it doesn't ratoon, it's not worth it.

And smut is like a virus on the cane. It gets a black sooty smudge on the leaf, and then the centre of the cane, and then it ends up killing it. The varieties that are not resistant to it, they will eventually get it.

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Tumeric Photo sourced: Shutterstock

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By Joe Bond — The Honest Garden, Forrest Beach

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From a little piece of rhizome to a beautiful harvest - There is something pretty amazing about growing ginger and turmeric - you plant what looks like a rather unimpressive little piece of root into the ground, wait patiently, and months later you can dig it up to discover a whole collection of beautiful new rhizomes underneath the soil. Here at The Honest Garden in Forrest Beach, ginger and turmeric have become part of our tropical garden.

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Ginger and turmeric aren’t technically roots, classified as rhizomes, which are underground stems. When you buy fresh ginger or turmeric, you can often see little buds or “eyes” on the rhizome. These are the growing points. Rather than planting the whole piece, you can cut a healthy rhizome into sections, making sure each piece has at least one or two good growing buds. Allow freshly cut pieces to dry for a day or two before planting. This can help reduce the chance of the cut surface rotting once it is in the soil.

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Our North Queensland climate is particularly suited to growing ginger. Ginger loves warmth, moisture and rich, well-drained soil. It doesn’t want to sit in waterlogged ground, but it also doesn’t like being allowed to dry out completely. Choose a warm position with good light. Ginger can tolerate some shade and, in our hot tropical climate, some protection from the harshest afternoon sun can be beneficial. Plant the rhizomes only a few centimetres below the surface, with the growing buds facing upwards. Then comes the hard part… Be patient!

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Turmeric enjoys very similar conditions to ginger. Plant healthy turmeric rhizomes in rich, well-drained soil, with the buds facing upwards. Keep the soil consistently moist while the plant is actively growing. Turmeric produces beautiful green foliage and, given enough time, develops a lovely underground crop. It can also be grown in containers, provided the container is large enough to allow the rhizomes to spread and has good drainage.

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One of the most important things we have learnt at The Honest Garden is that healthy plants start with healthy soil. Adding well-made compost or other suitable organic matter to the soil before planting can help improve its structure and provide nutrients. This is where composting and gardening really come together.  

It is a wonderful natural cycle — from garden, to kitchen, back to garden again.

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This is probably the hardest part of growing ginger and turmeric. You have to wait. Both plants spend a lot of their growing season developing their underground rhizomes while the foliage grows above the ground. As the growing season comes to an end, the leaves will naturally start to yellow and die back. This is a good indication that the plant is moving towards dormancy and the rhizomes may be ready to harvest. You can harvest younger ginger earlier if you prefer tender ginger, while allowing it to mature for longer produces a stronger, more developed rhizome. Turmeric is generally left to mature before harvesting.

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Harvesting is like opening a little treasure chest. Carefully loosen the soil around the plant and lift the rhizomes from the ground. Brush away the excess soil and separate what you want to use immediately from healthy pieces that you might like to keep for planting the following season.

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And this is one of the best things about growing ginger and turmeric — you can save some of your harvest to grow your next crop.

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A Few Simple Tips

• Choose healthy rhizomes with firm flesh and visible growing buds

• Use good-quality, well-drained soil. These plants enjoy moisture but don’t like sitting in stagnant water

• Keep them watered while they are actively growing, particularly during hot, dry periods

• Feed the soil with compost or suitable organic matter

• Give them room to grow. The rhizomes will spread underground

• Be patient. Much of the action is happening where you can’t see it!

• Save some healthy rhizomes from your current harvest to plant again

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Growing ginger and turmeric is a great example of how gardening doesn’t always have to be complicated. You don’t need a huge garden. You don’t need expensive equipment. You only need a healthy piece of rhizome, good soil, warmth, water and a little patience. And when you finally dig beneath those leaves and uncover a beautiful crop of fresh ginger or turmeric, there is something incredibly satisfying about knowing you grew it yourself. So, if you’ve got a spare corner of your garden, why not give ginger or turmeric a go? You might just dig up a little tropical treasure of your own.

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A 6-month-old kitten with such a big heart! Lily knows how to share the things that really matter: she loves cuddles and she loves her food. She’s at that wonderful age where she’s playful and curious, but also ready to build a strong bond with their forever family.  

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Lily is a calm and gentle cat, she’s sweet, affectionate, and loves taking things at her own pace. Give her a comfy spot, some tasty food and a good cuddle, and she’s a very happy girl. Raised with other cats, she knows how to be a good playmate and friend to any other feline companions your household might already have.

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Included in adoption fee of $225 DESEXED, MICRO-CHIPPED, up to date VACCINATIONS, FLEA/TICK/INTESTINAL WORM treated. Enquire today at angelpawsinc.com.au/pets-for-adoption/cats/

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Sex: Female
Breed: Domestic Short Hair
Colour: Grey Tabby
DOB: 01/03/2026
Cat Friendly: Yes
Dog Friendly: Unsure
Kid Friendly: Mostly

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Contributed with thanks by the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre

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For many of us, maintaining our homes and gardens is simply another part of everyday life.

Mowing the lawn, trimming overgrown gardens, clearing pathways and keeping up with general property maintenance are tasks we often take for granted.

But what happens when those everyday jobs become too difficult to manage?

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For older residents, people living with disability, those experiencing health challenges or individuals juggling the demands of everyday life, maintaining a home and yard can become overwhelming.

And it's about much more than appearances.

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An overgrown yard, uneven access or neglected maintenance can create safety concerns, reduce accessibility and affect a person's ability to feel comfortable and secure in their own home.

For some, the physical demands of maintaining a property are simply no longer manageable.

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For others, finding the time, equipment or expertise to complete maintenance tasks can be challenging.

At Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre (HCSC), we recognise that practical assistance can make a meaningful difference to people's wellbeing, independence and quality of life.

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Through our Home & Yard Maintenance Social Enterprise, HCSC provides property maintenance services throughout the Hinchinbrook region.

The service supports Community Housing Providers, local welfare and community organisations, and householders who may be older, frail or living with disability. Importantly, the Social Enterprise also provides services to the general public, making practical home and yard maintenance available to the wider community.

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From general yard maintenance to practical property upkeep, the service helps create safer, more manageable living environments while supporting people to maintain their independence.

For someone who can no longer manage their garden, assistance with outdoor maintenance can mean being able to safely access their home and enjoy their surroundings again.

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For busy households, having someone take care of maintenance tasks can free up valuable time and provide peace of mind.

And for community housing providers and local organisations, reliable property maintenance contributes to safer, more welcoming environments for the people who rely on those spaces.

Having a safe and comfortable place to call home is fundamental to our wellbeing.

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When essential maintenance becomes difficult to manage, the impact can extend beyond the physical environment. It can affect confidence, independence, social connection and a person's sense of dignity.

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Practical support is not always about doing everything for someone. Sometimes it's about providing the assistance they need to continue living safely and independently.

HCSC's Home & Yard Maintenance Social Enterprise is one example of how community-based services can respond to everyday challenges and make a positive difference in people's lives.

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It also reflects the broader role of HCSC in supporting community members through practical services that contribute to safer, healthier and more connected communities.

Need a Helping Hand? Contact Us for a Quote

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Whether you're a homeowner looking for assistance with your yard, a community organisation requiring property maintenance or someone finding it difficult to keep up with

everyday tasks around the home, our team would be happy to discuss your needs.

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Home & Yard Maintenance is a fee-for-service Social Enterprise available to the general public, community organisations and housing providers.

To find out more about the services available or request a quote, contact Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre (the Hub) on 4776 1822.

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Sometimes, making life a little easier starts with something as simple as a helping hand around the home.

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Because everyone deserves to feel safe, comfortable and supported in the place they call Home.

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Mayor Ramon Jayo with Ingham local Maria Giliberto. Photo supplied

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One of the things I value most about our community is the way people come together, whether it's around the dinner table, at community events or through the traditions that are passed from one generation to the next.

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Earlier this year, I put a call out to the community to help showcase a taste of Hinchinbrook as part of the Local Government Association of Queensland's A Shared Table cookbook project. The response reminded me just how rich our region is in culture, history and family traditions, and I thank everyone who took the time to share their recipes and stories.

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A special thank you goes to long-term Ingham local Maria Giliberto, whose family recipe, Svelto Sano con Pasta – Tonno e Pomodoro, was selected to represent Hinchinbrook.

When Maria shared the recipe, she wasn't simply sharing a pasta dish. She was sharing a treasured piece of local history. The recipe originally belonged to her late mother, Grace Licciardello, whose cooking talents were recognised when the dish won the Senior Section of the Great Italian Bake-Off at the 2000 Australian Italian Festival.

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Like many great family recipes, it proves that simple ingredients can create something special. Combining tomato, basil, olives, capers and tuna, the dish has brought family and friends together around the table for generations.

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What I love most about Maria's contribution is that it captures exactly what A Shared Table is all about. Behind every recipe is a story, and behind every story are the people, traditions and memories that help shape our community.  

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By sharing her family's recipe, Maria has helped preserve an important piece of Hinchinbrook's history while showcasing the strong Italian heritage that continues to be part of our region today.

Last week, it was fantastic to attend the 130th LGAQ Annual Conference in Cairns alongside mayors, councillors and local government leaders from across Queensland. The conference provided an important opportunity to share ideas, discuss the challenges facing our communities and learn from one another.  

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One of the highlights for me was taking part in a panel discussion with the Mayor of Lismore.  

Having the opportunity to speak openly about our flood experiences and recovery journeys reinforced the value of local government working together.  

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While every community's circumstances are different, sharing lessons learned helps us better prepare, respond and recover when disasters strike.

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What I enjoyed most about this project was seeing the stories behind the recipes. They remind us that our community is built on the people who came before us, the traditions they passed on and the memories we continue to share.  

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Thank you to everyone who contributed, and especially to Maria for sharing a piece of her family's story with all of Queensland.

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See Maria’s contribution below which is now shared across the State:  

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Svelto Sano con Pasta – Tonno e Pomodoro

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Ingredients

• Extra virgin olive oil

• 410g can tomato purée

• 185g can tuna, or fresh local fish

• 1–2 tbsp capers

• Approximately 24 Kalamata olives, pitted

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• Fresh basil leaves

• 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Pinch of sugar

• Spaghetti, to serve

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Method

1. Heat a little olive oil in a large frying pan.

2. If using fresh fish, add it to the pan and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until just cooked through. Remove and set aside.

3. Add a little more olive oil if required, then sauté the onion, garlic, basil, capers and olives for a few minutes, or until softened and fragrant.

4. If using canned tuna, add it at this stage and gently stir through.

5. Add the tomato purée and a pinch of sugar. Season with salt and pepper and simmer gently while the spaghetti cooks.

6. If using fresh fish, return it to the sauce and gently stir through until heated.

7. Serve over cooked spaghetti and garnish with fresh basil

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For decades, people across the Herbert River district have been calling for improvements to the Bruce Highway at Gairloch.

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Anyone who has lived through a North Queensland wet season knows just how frustrating it is when the highway goes underwater, cutting communities off and disrupting families, businesses and our local industries.

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That's why it was particularly pleasing to stand alongside Premier David Crisafulli and Transport Minister Brent Mickelberg this week to announce that work is now underway on these long-awaited upgrades.

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And I know plenty of locals will be thinking the same thing – it's about time!

During the Hinchinbrook by-election, I committed to fighting for the infrastructure our region deserves, and improving the safety and reliability of the Bruce Highway has remained a priority.

The works between Gairloch and Ripple Creek will include road widening, improved drainage and other upgrades designed to reduce flood-related disruptions.

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Further safety improvements are also underway between the Ingham-Halifax-Bemerside Road intersection and the Cardwell Range.

These projects form part of a broader investment in the Bruce Highway, jointly supported by the Queensland and Australian Governments.

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For our community, this isn't just about upgrading a road.

It's about families getting home safely, people making it to work or medical appointments, and our farmers and businesses being able to move their produce and freight without unnecessary disruptions.

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We can't stop the rain, but we can build better infrastructure to help our communities withstand it.

There is still plenty of work ahead, including the broader floodway improvements needed at Gairloch, but seeing construction underway is an important step forward.

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Next week, I will also be back in Parliament for another issue I have continued to advocate strongly for – Breach Bail, Go to Jail.

During the by-election, people across Hinchinbrook made it clear they were tired of repeat offenders being released on bail and going on to commit more crimes.

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I listened, and I have continued fighting for stronger consequences.

The proposed legislation will introduce tougher bail requirements and mandatory minimum detention or imprisonment for certain serious offences committed while on bail.

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Following the parliamentary committee process, these laws are now expected to be debated and passed next week.

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Bail is a privilege, and there must be consequences when that privilege is abused.

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Whether it's delivering long-awaited road improvements or fighting for stronger laws to make our communities safer, my focus remains on getting practical results for Hinchinbrook.

There is more work to do, but we're making progress on the issues that matter to our community.

As the end of another membership year for Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Tourism Inc. wrapped up on September 30th, it is the time of year where the business community come together to acknowledge and celebrate Chamber’s achievements over the past year.  It is also a time where members may consider stepping up to become involved in an executive role, as all current positions of president, vice president, secretary and treasurer will be declared vacant and nominations are now being accepted.

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Chamber has once again had another incredibly busy year supporting and advocating for the local business community.  Some of the key priorities of focus this year has been advocating for business priorities such as increased insurance policy impacts; informing and supporting business owners with grant opportunities; collaborating and supporting with HSC Community Recovery events; once again hosting and managing the delivery of Markets at the Mosaic and the Shop & Win Campaign; marketing the Shire through the Hinchinbrook Festival of Events and Whole of Shire radio campaign; collaborating with Hinchinbrook Shire Council to deliver two Christmas in Hinchinbrook events in 2025; submission of three Chamber grant funding applications (one successful to date), and the executive believe it is important to share and celebrate Chamber’s contributions and thank the members for their continued ongoing support.

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This year’s event will be held at Lee’s Hotel in Beer Garden, commencing at 5:30pm on Monday 16^th November, 2026.  All members and interested businesses owners are welcomed to attend the AGM.  

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What? Chamber of Commerce AGM  
When? Monday 16^th November, 5:30pm
Where? Lee’s Hotel Beer Garden

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Dr Cockburn is pictured (centre) with RDAA President, Professor Sarah Chalmers (left) and Rural Doctors Foundation Board Member, Dr Jean Little1wood (right). Photo source: RDAA

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Dr Carmel Cockburn, a Rural Generalist doctor who has been a driving force behind the return of maternity services to Ingham, has received the Rural Doctors Association of Australia’s (RDAA) Rural Doctor of the Year Award for 2026.

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Born and raised in Yungaburra, Carmel studied Medicine at James Cook University in Townsville before launching her medical career, training across hospitals in Mackay and Cairns.  

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During her studies Carmel met her future husband Damon – an electrician who is Ingham ‘born and bred’ – which eventually sparked a move to the town in 2015.

She has been a Rural Generalist Obstetrician at Ingham Hospital since then, and this year was also appointed as the hospital’s Medical Superintendent.

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When asked what the Doctor of the Year award meant to her, Dr Cockburn said:  

“It means a great deal. I love my community and my hospital, and I have long-term plans in Ingham.  It has meant a lot, and it's been wonderful to share it with all of the staff at the Ingham Hospital - we work together as a great team.”

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That team is, according to Carmel, a tight knit and hardworking one.  

“The nursing and midwifery staff, many of whom are also Ingham born and bred, we are very bonded in that we work some pretty long hours in some sometimes difficult situations… I guess being in it together and looking after each other, that'swhat makes it so special.”  

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Dr Carmel believes that in rural medicine it’s vital to understand your community’s needs.  

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“A top rural doctor for me is someone who is really trying to meet the needs of the community they live in,” said.  

“All rural little towns across Australia have different needs, and doctors need to be willing to advocate for their community and listen to the people in the community, to meet their needs and work hard meeting their needs.  

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“To me, that's that's the special thing about rural doctors.”

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When asked whether she had any advice for future healthcare providers, Dr Carmel’s answer was simple.  

“Go to a rural place to find out what it's like.

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“You can't put into words what it's like working in a rural hospital. Actually going and experiencing that face to face and hands on, as well as getting yourself a really good mentor – that would be my advice.”

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RDAA President, Professor Sarah Chalmers said Carmel’s colleagues have described her as an excellent, dedicated clinician who provides top-level care.

“She was integral in re-establishing the maternity service at Ingham Hospital, which has just celebrated ten years…” Professor Chalmers said.  

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“Across that decade, she has spent countless hours working in the maternity unit – at all hours of the day and night...

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“Fittingly, three of Carmel and Damon’s four children have been born in the re-opened maternity unit, with their oldest son one of the first babies to be delivered there.

“Carmel is widely respected for her calm and cohesive leadership, and is described as an unstoppable force of nature who is available 24/7 for her colleagues.

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“Most of all, she applies her kindness in everything she does.”

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Outside Medicine, Dr Cockburn said she enjoys fishing, boating and spending time at the beach “with my beautiful family”. All six members of the Cockburn family are part of the Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club.

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Photo source: Premier of Queensland David Crisafulli  

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Works are starting on new Bruce Highway upgrades at Gairloch, designed to help reduce the severity of flooding across this section of highway and the occurrence of head-on crashes.

Construction is now underway on two key sections. The Gairloch to Ripple Creek section will widen the road and improve drainage, while the Ingham-Halifax-Bemerside Road and Cardwell Range section will widen the road, with both projects delivering critical safety improvements.

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Under the $9 billion Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program which began last year, 18 projects have been completed, 20 are underway, and 7 are expected to start construction this year, delivering a pipeline of upgrades along the highway between Gympie and Cairns.

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In total, 150 projects are in planning, design, construction or have been completed through the $9 billion investment in the Bruce Highway.

The first stage of works between Gairloch and Ripple Creek is using efficiencies realised under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, while the other works are part of the $1 billion Bruce Highway Safety Package and funded on an 80:20 basis.

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Queensland Premier David Crisafulli said the government was getting on with fixing the Bruce.

“We’re serious about bringing it up to the standard it should be and we’ve got shovels in the ground,” Premier Crisafulli said.

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“Upgrading the Bruce at Gairloch has been spoken about for decades, and finally now work is being done.

“We’ve secured a funding deal that respects your money and means more upgrades to make the Bruce safer, stronger and more reliable.”  

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Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said the Bruce Highway was vital for local passengers.

“The Bruce Highway is a critical connection for North Queensland communities, freight operators, businesses and visitors.

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“The works north of Ingham will help strengthen a section of highway that is frequently impacted by wet weather, providing better connections for local communities and the industries that rely on this important corridor.

“Investing in resilience means investing before disaster strikes, helping communities stay connected to essential services, supporting recovery efforts and reducing the impacts of future natural hazards.”

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Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Road Brent Mickelberg said the start of construction across the Bruce marked an important step towards delivering safer and more reliable journeys.

“With further projects progressing from Gympie to Cairns, a significant program of work is gathering pace across the Bruce Highway,” Minister Mickelberg said.

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“Under the 80:20 funding deal we struck with the Commonwealth – which we were told couldn’t be done – every cent of the $9 billion is being spent upgrading the Bruce Highway between Gympie and Cairns.”  

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State Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa said the funding would make the Bruce safer for locals and visitors.

"This announcement shows exactly what can be achieved when Hinchinbrook has a strong voice at the Government table. I committed to fighting for the infrastructure our region deserves, and today we're seeing that commitment translate into real investment for North Queensland,” Mr Chiesa said.  

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“Locals know better than anyone just how often this section of road goes underwater. Every wet season, families, businesses and transport operators face uncertainty when this vital link is cut. This investment is about building a safer, more resilient road network that keeps our communities connected when it matters most."

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"This road is among the most flood-prone stretches of highway in Queensland, and the people who live and work here know the challenges that come with that reality. Today's investment demonstrates the Crisafulli Government's commitment to North Queensland and to delivering practical projects that improve safety and reliability for local communities."  

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This month, I want to share some positive news with our community about two important achievements for the Cassowary Coast and encourage everyone to have their say through Council’s 2026 Community Scorecard.

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Firstly, I am very pleased to advise that Council has won the Projects over $10 million category at the 2026 Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia, Queensland & Northern Territory (IPWEA-QNT) Excellence Awards for the Mission Beach CBD Revitalisation, earning statewide recognition for one of our region’s most significant public infrastructure projects.

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This state award recognises the quality of a major public infrastructure project delivered here in the Cassowary Coast.

The project has transformed the heart of Mission Beach through upgraded public spaces, improved drainage, road and footpath reconstruction, landscaping, lighting, public art and better beach access, while preserving the relaxed tropical character valued by the community.

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I thank the Mission Beach community, local businesses, Council staff, contractors and consultants who all contributed to this significant project.

Secondly, Council has also been recognised for its work in strengthening flood risk management through our Flash Flood Sensor Network and Disaster Dashboard Integration project.

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The Cassowary Coast is highly vulnerable to intense rainfall and flash flooding, and this project is helping Council improve the way we monitor and respond to rapidly changing conditions.

Council has now installed 21 real-time flash flood sensors at key high-risk locations as part of a three-year trial. These sensors feed live information into Council’s Disaster Dashboard, improving situational awareness for Council, emergency services and the community.

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This means Council is less reliant on delayed reporting, regional data or sending staff into hazardous conditions to inspect known trouble spots during severe weather. Instead, we have better local intelligence to support faster, more informed decisions about road conditions, warnings, response actions and community safety.

The project is also helping strengthen coordination with emergency services and response agencies by providing more timely and reliable local information when conditions are changing quickly. It is a practical investment in community safety and a strong example of how innovation can improve disaster preparedness and response in a regional area.

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As we head into the wet season, I encourage all residents to take practical steps now to Get Ready. Forecasts may be pointing to a drier and warmer than average start to the season, but that does not mean severe weather will not occur. Heavy rain, flooding and tropical cyclones can still develop quickly, and preparing early means you are ready if conditions change.

Residential ratepayers will have received a waste voucher with their latest rate notice, which can be used to dispose of a load of eligible dry household waste. I encourage residents to use this opportunity to clean up around the home and yard, clear gutters, secure loose outdoor items, check emergency kits and make sure household plans are in place.

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Please also remember that Council’s Disaster Dashboard is the best place to find local weather warnings, road closures, power outage information and emergency updates when severe weather affects our region.

Finally, I want to strongly encourage everyone across the Cassowary Coast to take part in the 2026 Community Scorecard.

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If you receive the Scorecard in your letterbox or inbox, or access it online, please take a few minutes to complete it before 6 November 2026. This is your opportunity to rate Council services, tell us what matters most to you, and help shape Council priorities, community outcomes and advocacy.

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The Community Scorecard is one of the most important ways we hear directly from our residents. Your feedback helps Council understand what we are doing well, where we need to improve, and what matters most to our communities now and into the future. I strongly encourage everyone to take part.

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Council will continue working to deliver practical outcomes for our communities and to ensure the Cassowary Coast remains the most liveable tropical community.

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Enjoying a taste of Italy around the table at Plenty, Mission Beach. From left, Giuseppe and Toni Santomingo, Lois Dawes and Veronica Papenga. Photo credit: Helen Cook

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Fancy learning something new, making a few friends and giving your brain a workout?

Tully resident Veronica Papenga is inviting locals to pull up a chair and try their hand at Scopa, a traditional Italian card game that brings people together for fun, friendship and a taste of Italian culture.

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Veronica grew up in Brisbane, learning Scopa from her father and grandfather, or Nonno, and watching family members gather around the card table. But her family's connections to Far North Queensland run deep. Her Italian grandparents emigrated from Italy and worked as sugarcane cutters in the Innisfail district, while her parents first knew each other as children through a family friendship that began at the Silkwood Hotel.

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Eighteen months ago, Veronica and her husband relocated from Brisbane when he secured a job at Tully Sugar Mill. Now, with their first baby due any day, her parents are considering moving back to the Far North to be closer to family. And Veronica is keeping family traditions alive by sharing them with her new community.

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Scopa, meaning 'to sweep' in Italian, is played with a special deck of 40 cards featuring four suits – coins, cups, clubs and swords. It's a game of numbers, memory and strategy, where players collect cards by matching values or adding them together.

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There's also Briscola, another popular Italian card game using the same deck, but with different rules, scoring and a trump suit, offering another challenge for those keen to learn.

For Veronica, these games are much more than entertainment.

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"I've grown up playing Scopa. It means a lot to me because it's part of my family," she said.  

“I still play every week.”

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She's even used the game to help children learn English while working as an au pair in Italy.

Veronica has already introduced Scopa to a small group at Nonna Angelina's in Innisfail and recently organised a gathering at Plenty in Mission Beach.

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Even with a newborn imminent, she's planning more opportunities for locals to get together and learn the games, with dates and venues to be announced. Young or old, Italian or not, everyone's welcome to pull up a chair and try their hand!

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To find out about upcoming gatherings, follow Scopa Club on Facebook or call Veronica on 0449 149 700 – but perhaps leave a message, as she might have her hands full with a new arrival!

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Celebrating a successful first year in business The Professionals office on Edith St, Innisfail. From left: Segrid, Lynne, Barb, Terri, Taylah and Annette. Photo credit: Helen Cook

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For Annette Swaine, celebrating the first anniversary of Professionals Innisfail is about more than business success. It's about building a team, creating opportunities and contributing to the community she calls home.

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Annette and husband David opened Professionals Innisfail on 1 October 2025, transforming a building purchased as an investment into a thriving real estate agency. Twelve months later, the agency has grown from two staff to a busy team servicing properties from Babinda to Cardwell.

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Annette specialises in residential property and land, while David focuses on commercial property and business sales.

The agency has expanded its property management portfolio, acquiring rent rolls from First National and Babinda Real Estate.

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Today, the team includes three full-time property managers, administration support and salesperson Segrid, who recently joined the agency.

For Annette, building the right team has been as important as growing the business.

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“The biggest thing for me has been to build a culture within our office,” she said.

Receptionist Taylah is a perfect example of that commitment.  

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“She's now undertaking real estate qualifications and preparing to move into property management,” Annette said.  

“It's good to help staff grow into what they want to do.”  

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Annette’s approach reflects a colourful career spanning more than 20 years in the Queensland Police Service, retiring as a sergeant, before operating a fishing charter and boat hire businesses in Cardwell and Mission Beach.  

Fishing remains her greatest passion to this day.

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“When I retired, I said I was retiring to go fishing. And literally I was!”

But with those businesses behind her, these days, she's happiest escaping onto the water for recreation whenever the weather and workload allows.

“I suppose it's more therapy than anything,” she said.

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But Annette's community involvement doesn't stop at real estate. Having previously stood for state parliament, she's now spearheading the revival of the Innisfail Chamber of Commerce after years of inactivity.

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With more than 20 members already involved and an annual general meeting planned for January, she's optimistic about rebuilding a strong voice for local businesses.  

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For Annette, whether mentoring staff, helping people find homes or supporting fellow business owners, it's about creating opportunities – and hopefully finding the occasional weekend to go fishing.

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Dr Valerie Keenan’s passion for preserving Tully’s rich Indigenous cultural heritage is central to her vision for a permanent arts and cultural precinct in the town

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After three years of exhibitions, workshops and fundraising, Tully Arts and Cultural Precinct Inc is making a determined bid to secure a permanent home in the former Visitor Information Centre.

At the heart of the campaign is local artist, researcher and cultural advocate Dr Valerie Keenan, whose lifelong passion for art, history and Indigenous culture has helped inspire the community initiative.

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The vision is to transform the Bruce Highway premises into a year-round cultural hub, featuring a public gallery, heritage displays, creative workshops and a Keeping Place for Aboriginal cultural objects.

The organisation has occupied part of the building for nearly two years and has lodged an expression of interest with Cassowary Coast Regional Council to secure its future.

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For committee chair Valerie, it's an opportunity to create something she believes Tully has needed for decades. Born and raised in the district, Valerie remembers a thriving local arts community, including her mother, Gladys Henry, the first female councillor for the Cardwell Shire Council and an artist with a deep interest in local Aboriginal culture.  

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“There were more opportunities for artists in my mother’s day, but by the time I left school, there were very few pathways into the arts,” Valerie recalled.

It wasn't until her 40s, when she was living in the Torres Strait, that she began formal arts studies, initially through Flying Arts, which delivered workshops to regional and remote communities. She subsequently studied visual arts, museum studies and ethnography, completing a PhD exploring historical correspondence, collecting practices and connections to country.

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Her academic interests were deeply personal. James Cook University's Objects of Possession research project documents her mother's collection of 588 Aboriginal cultural objects, acquired by the Aboriginal Arts Board in 1979. Developed through relationships with Jirrbal, Girramay and Gulngay people, the collection represents an important record of the region's cultural heritage.

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Valerie's professional career strengthened those connections. For 11 years she worked with Girringun Aboriginal Art Centre in Cardwell, supporting First Nations artists and bringing their work to national and international audiences.

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Her contribution was recognised with a Museums & Galleries Queensland Achievement Award in 2019. Her research also took her to Norway to investigate nineteenth-century naturalist Carl Lumholtz's collections from the Herbert River region, culminating in an exhibition and publication.

Yet despite these international experiences, Valerie's focus has always returned to Tully.

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"My work, my life has always been about this place," she said.

In 2023, with encouragement from Shane Greenwood, then manager of the Tully Support Centre, Valerie brought together local artists and community members to explore establishing a dedicated arts precinct.

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Around 70 people attended the first public meeting, leading to the establishment of an incorporated organisation. Early supporters included respected Gulngay Traditional Owner and artist Clarence Kinjun, whom Valerie has known since childhood. Since that first meeting, the committee and members have worked tirelessly to build support and demonstrate what's possible.

Two major exhibitions, About Sugar Tully and Tradition, Ritual, Community, each attracted around 40 artists, while three book fairs, children's activities and printmaking workshops have engaged the community and raised funds.

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But without a permanent home, the organisation's ambitions remain constrained.

The proposed centre would offer rotating exhibitions, a gallery shop, workshops, movie nights, oral history projects and heritage displays. Importantly, it would provide dedicated spaces for Gulngay Traditional Owners, including a future Keeping Place Museum for rainforest culture and repatriated cultural material.

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Valerie said people had already offered significant cultural objects and historical memorabilia for safekeeping.

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"They want things to stay locally," she said. "But we can't accept any of the offers at the moment because we don't have anywhere to put them."

The registered charity has developed a comprehensive business plan, three-year arts program and governance framework, supported by arts grants, community donations and fundraising.

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For Valerie, the vision is about much more than an art gallery. It's about celebrating Tully's creativity, preserving its cultural heritage and opening doors for future generations.

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"What drives me is that other people are interested as well," she said.

Having once left Tully to pursue her own artistic ambitions, Valerie hopes the community's shared enthusiasm will help create a place where local talent can flourish, stories can be preserved and the arts can become an enduring part of the town's future.

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With council expected to consider the building's future at its October meeting, Valerie is encouraging residents to voice their support.

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For more information: visit tullyartsandculture.org.au or email tullyprecinct@gmail.com.

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Detectives from the Tully Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB) are appealing for public information following an incident in Tully on Friday, 16 October.

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Initial information indicates between 2.30am and 3.10am, a woman in her twenties was assaulted by a male on a nature strip at Murray Street.

Police are appealing for anyone with dashcam vision on Murray Street north of Cook Street between 2.30am and 3.10am, or anyone who saw two people walking north on Murray Street.

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Investigations are ongoing, anyone with relevant information or vision is urged to come forward.

Quote this reference number: QP2602047863.

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If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting.

Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.

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If you’ve experienced sexual assault, it is not your fault and you are not alone. There are multiple ways to report what has happened to you depending on your situation.

If there’s an immediate danger, call Triple Zero (000). You can also report online via: https://forms.police.qld.gov.au/launch/SexualAssault, over the phone or face to face at a police station.

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There are also Alternative Reporting Options available depending on your situation.

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For confidential information, counselling and support, call the State-wide Sexual Assault Helpline on 1800 010 120 or 1800 RESPECT for 24-hour help.

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Young sailors travelled from across Far North Queensland to compete in the regatta

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Colourful sails filled the horizon at South Mission Beach over the weekend as around 40 boats and competitors from across North Queensland gathered for the 44th annual Mission Beach Regatta.

With sailors travelling from as far afield as Mackay, the Whitsundays, Bowen, Townsville, Cairns and the Tablelands and from all corners of the Cassowary Coast, the two-day event brought together generations of sailing enthusiasts for some friendly competition and camaraderie, in spectacular conditions.

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Fair Winds And Good Times At Mission Beach

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There was plenty of colour, camaraderie and good old-fashioned fun at South Mission Beach over the weekend as around 40 boats took to the water for the annual Mission Beach Regatta.

With a beautiful northeasterly breeze and spectacular views of Dunk Island, conditions were near-perfect for the two-day event, hosted by the Mission Beach Sailing Club.

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Sailors travelled from as far as Mackay, the Whitsundays, Bowen, Townsville, Cairns and the Tablelands, joining local competitors from across the Cassowary Coast. The fleet included catamarans, monohulls and dinghies, with sailors of all ages and abilities enjoying some friendly competition.

"They had a beautiful northeasterly breeze, about 15 to 17 knots, perfect conditions," club secretary Carmen Walker said.

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For Carmen, the regatta is about much more than racing.

"A lot of the Far North Queenslanders, we're like a big family up here, and these regattas are a gathering of our extended sailing family," she said.

"We love hosting the event and people love coming here because it's more of a laid-back regatta."

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Among those enjoying the weekend was Clifton Beach sailor Brad Rees, returning after several years away through illness.

"This is like VIP weather. We've got a decent breeze blowing. It's just beautiful conditions here," he said.

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Airlie Beach sailor Jacob McConaghy is preparing to compete in the International Moth World Championships in Perth, but the Mission Beach Regatta offered a chance for some relaxed racing aboard a Tasar with fellow sailor Emily Wells.

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"It's just so much fun," Emily said, with the pair enjoying the beachside camping and opportunity to catch up with sailing friends.

Another highlight was the return of the club's junior Green Fleet for the first time in around 15 years.

"We had seven Green Fleeters," Carmen said, explaining that the young sailors, aged seven to 12, were developing the skills and confidence needed to progress into competitive racing.

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Meanwhile, Mission Beach sailor Luke McMullern and crew member Giles Richardson, from Port Douglas, claimed line honours in the race around Dunk Island, completing the course aboard their Nacra 5.8 catamaran in one hour, 18 minutes and 10 seconds.

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Carmen thanked the club's sponsors, particularly major supporter Tuskers, and encouraged anyone interested in sailing to come along to one of the club's three remaining sailing days before the season finishes in November.

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"We can figure out what is suitable for their ability and skill level," she said.

For sailing dates and further information, visit www.missionbeachsailingclub.org.au.

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Photo source: Shutterstock

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Pest advice for the month across the Shire is Singapore Daisy. Singapore Daisy is a restricted invasive plant under the Biosecurity Act 2014. Even though Singapore Daisy is a pretty looking flower, it has the ability to quickly invade drainage systems, lawns and the natural environment, destroying its biodiversity by smothering native vegetation and pasture. Council is currently undertaking the annual inspection program.  

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If Singapore Daisy is suspected or observed around your property, please contact Council’s Biosecurity Team for further investigation and advice.

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nbn technicians have been busy laying fibre in Ingham. Photo credit: nbn

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With the wet season approaching, nbn is encouraging residents and businesses across Ingham to check whether a full fibre connection is available to them and act before the weather arrives.  

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Where available, a nbn full fibre via Fibre to the Premises (FTTP) can provide more reliable connectivity than a legacy copper-based connection and is less vulnerable to environmental damage or water ingress.  

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nbn technicians have been busy laying fibre in Ingham, and many homes and businesses across Ingham are already eligible to upgrade now to nbn’s most reliable, resilient and fastest residential connection.

Kylie Lindsay, Head of nbn Local Queensland, said reliable and resilient communications were particularly important in the lead-up to, during and after the natural disasters the region faces.

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“Queenslanders are familiar with preparing their homes, emergency kits and evacuation plans ahead of the wet season, but it is equally important to think about what you can do to stay connected to emergency information, essential services and loved ones.”

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“Fibre offers the most reliable nbn connection and is helping our network to become more resilient to the effects of extreme weather. This means fewer faults, faster restoration times and more consistent connectivity in more places.”

“We know from experience that reliable connectivity is essential before, during and after severe weather. It helps people receive emergency warnings, access important information and services, check on family and friends, and keep local businesses operating.

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“I encourage residents and businesses not to wait until a cyclone or flood is on the horizon. Preparing early could be invaluable to help families, businesses and the wider community stay informed and connected when conditions deteriorate.”

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To check whether your address is eligible to upgrade to a more resilient full fibre connection, visit www.nbnco.com.au/checkregional

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Hi Everyone,

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Exciting news from the Life Publishing Group team this week – we’ve won this year’s Local Government Association of Queensland Journalism Award!

We’re particularly humbled by this achievement, especially given the competition with The Australian coming in second and the ABC third.

This state award recognises excellence in regional journalism, and our positive, community-focused, hyperlocal coverage across the group took out the top accolade.

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I travelled to Cairns on Tuesday to accept the award on behalf of our team, and I would like to acknowledge all our journalists for the exceptional work they do every day across all the regions we serve.

A big round of applause goes to Hannah McNamara, Victoria Velton, Jacob Casha, Zach Houtenville and our Editorial Team Leader Suzanna McLoughlin.

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As some of you may know, most of our journalists come to the regions as cadets, embarking on their first jobs in journalism. They are thrown into a new community and often become the only on-the-ground journalists covering local news.

They are then supported by our fantastic team of professionals, and together we produce the papers our communities read every week.

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Every page is a team effort, from the advertising booked by our Sales Managers to the pages created by our designers, the production team bringing it all together and our journalists delivering the content.

Thank you to the whole team for everything you do and well done to each journalist for collectively producing a body of work of such a high standard that we received this top gong.

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I would also like to mention the origins of this award, which are particularly meaningful.

The LGAQ established it in honour of ABC cameraman John Bean, journalist Paul Lockyer and helicopter pilot Gary Ticehurst, who tragically died in a crash while on assignment in 2011.

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They were a well-liked and deeply respected crew who spent much of their time working in regional areas. Their loss sparked an outpouring of grief from regional leaders who understood the enormous contribution they made to ensuring regional Queensland was given a voice and its contribution to public life was recognised.

It is an honour to continue their legacy in our own small way, ensuring regional Queensland communities remain connected and have a strong voice through positive, local free newspapers every week.

The awards night was spectacular, with more than 500 Mayors, Councillors and local government staff in attendance and I was thrilled to meet up with five of the local Mayors from the regions we serve.  

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When I was called up on stage to accept the award on behalf of the team, it was a moment that made all our dedication to regional journalism feel worthwhile.

To my surprise, when I came off the stage, all our local Mayors came over to congratulate us.

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I was greeted by Mayor Greg Williamson from Mackay, Mayor Ry Collins from the Whitsundays, Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort from the Burdekin and Mayor Ramon Jayo from Hinchinbrook.

I have to confess, I had tears in my eyes at that moment!

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I later found out that Mayor Ramon Jayo had nominated us for the award and that every Mayor had received a phone call from the judging committee, with each vouching for the incredible work our team does every day in their regions.

Thank you to all the Mayors, including Mayor Teresa Millwood from Cassowary Coast, where we have recently expanded. It was a delight to share your table on the night!

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And finally, thank you to our incredible team, our Publisher Bec Douthwaite, the LGAQ for this significant recognition, and our wonderful readers and local businesses who are part of the Life community.

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Rach

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Local electrician Adrian Cammeleri offered the RSL some guidance on how to use their brand new back up generator. Photo supplied

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Cardwell RSL Sub Branch’s new back up generator is up and running!

The generator was secured through FRRR funding, and will give the sub branch peace of mind and a contingency plan should extreme weather cause any outages come storm season.  

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Electrician Adrian Cammeleri visited the branch this week to give RSL Members a tutorial on how to run the back up generator.  

“The Cardwell RSL is extremely grateful for the generous support given by the Foundation for Rural Regional Renewal (FRRR),” said Cardwell RSL Sub Branch President Robert Lang.  

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“Without their grant funding this Gen Set compound & electrical connection would not be possible.”

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FRRR works with local organisations and community groups to help address regional needs, recognising the importance of locally led projects in building stronger, more resilient communities. Its funding supports a range of initiatives, from community infrastructure to disaster preparedness. 

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Tully State High School was delighted to welcome 162 students from Ohori Junior High School in Fukuoka, Japan, for a memorable day of cultural exchange and friendship.

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The visiting students spent the day getting to know our school community, sharing insights into their own school experiences, daily routines and interests. Tully SHS Year 8 students acted as buddies, proudly showing their Japanese visitors around the school and helping them feel welcome.

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A highlight of the visit was a range of Indigenous cultural activities facilitated by the Girringun Rangers. Students had the opportunity to try spear and boomerang throwing, hand painting and beading, providing a valuable insight into Indigenous culture and traditions.

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The day was filled with opportunities to learn from one another, celebrate cultural differences and build connections between the two school communities. A friendly game of dodgeball and Just Dance also brought plenty of fun and laughter!

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Tully State High School extends a heartfelt thank you to all the students, teachers, staff and the Girringun Rangers who contributed to making the visit such a wonderful and memorable experience.

The visit was a fantastic opportunity to strengthen international connections, celebrate cultural diversity and create lasting memories for everyone involved.

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Photo credit: Helen Cook

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From copyright concerns to smarter booking systems, artificial intelligence is presenting both opportunities and challenges for Cassowary Coast businesses.

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Members of the Cassowary Coast Businesswomen’s Network (CCBWN) explored the rapidly evolving technology at an informative evening with Cairns-based digital specialist Nicky Jurd at the Mt Tyson Hotel in Tully on Tuesday 13th October.

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Under the theme Human vs AI, Nicky introduced participants to the growing range of artificial intelligence platforms, explaining how they differ, their practical applications and how dramatically their capabilities have improved in recent months.

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With technology advancing at remarkable speed, keeping up with developments is becoming a challenge in itself. The presentation explored how businesses can harness AI to improve productivity, streamline everyday tasks and work more efficiently, while also considering the risks and responsibilities associated with its use.

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Nicky, who established her digital business Precedence in 2000, has more than 25 years' experience helping businesses navigate technological change.

CCBWN President Kerry Chow said the evening reflected the network's commitment to supporting local business women through learning, networking and shared experiences.

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"The Human vs AI event was exactly the kind of evening the Cassowary Coast Business Women's Network is here to create," she said.

"An opportunity to connect, learn, share ideas, support one another and explore a business topic that is becoming increasingly relevant to all of us.

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"It was a terrific example of professional development that was practical, engaging and genuinely useful."

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Beyond the presentations, the network provides valuable opportunities for local businesswomen to build connections, exchange experiences, learn from one another – and enjoy a fun night out.

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Next month, CCBWN is supporting the ‘growHer Long Lunch’ event organised by the Tully Women in Ag group, which is an initiative focused on building awareness and understanding around wellbeing in our rural communities - Saturday 7th November at the Tully Country Club. Members and guests are welcome. Visit www.ccbwn.org.au for more information on this and future events.

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The Cassowary Coast's 2026 Australia Day Award recipients, recognised for their outstanding contributions to the community. Photo source: CCRC

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Every community has its quiet achievers – the volunteers, sporting champions, environmental advocates and community leaders who give their time and energy to make the Cassowary Coast a better place to live.

Now Cassowary Coast Regional Council is calling on residents to nominate those deserving of recognition in the 2027 Australia Day Awards.

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This year's awards celebrated an inspiring range of local achievements, with Cardwell Coast Guard Commander Ken English named 2026 Citizen of the Year for his outstanding voluntary service.

Ken played a pivotal role in rebuilding the Cardwell Coast Guard flotilla into a fully operational emergency service, contributing thousands of volunteer hours to maintenance, marine rescues, training and fundraising.

“I believe this award really reflects Cardwell and the people of the Coast Guard, past and present,” Ken said.

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Young Citizen of the Year Caleb Wodzislawski was recognised for his volunteer work in Innisfail, particularly with Riverfest, and his involvement in Council's Youth Advisory Committee.

Other recipients included Lifetime Contribution Award winner Margaret Dineen, Sportsperson of the Year Kodi Worth and the Cardwell RSL Sub Branch, recognised with the Community Group Award.

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The Tully Mill 100 Celebration was named Community Event/Project of the Year, recognising the efforts of those who helped celebrate a century of local sugar industry history.

Mayor Teresa Millwood said the awards provided an opportunity to thank those making a difference.

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“These awards are about recognising dedication, community spirit and service. They remind us of the extraordinary contributions being made across the Cassowary Coast and give us the chance to say thank you to the people and groups helping our region thrive,” Cr Millwood said.

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The 2027 awards feature seven categories recognising community service, sporting achievement, environmental stewardship and outstanding local initiatives.

Council is encouraging residents to nominate, with just one to five short written responses required, depending on the category. No lengthy submissions or fancy writing are needed – simply explain why your nominee deserves recognition.

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Nominations close at 5pm on Friday 27th November 2026, with the awards ceremony at Mission Beach Resort on Friday 22nd January 2027.

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To nominate, visit cassowarycoast.smartygrants.com.au or contact Council on 1300 763 903.

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Photos supplied  

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From morning teas and trivia to therapy dogs and plenty of laughter, seniors across the Cassowary Coast have been making the most of Queensland Seniors Month this October.

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This year's theme, Connect and Celebrate, has been brought to life through a range of activities at libraries across the region, providing opportunities to catch up with old friends, make new ones and enjoy some light-hearted fun.

Celebrations in Cardwell, Mission Beach and Tully have brought plenty of smiles, with participants sharing their appreciation for the chance to get together.

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"Lovely morning, everybody enjoyed themselves," was one happy response.

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Another participant summed up the occasion: "Was a fun morning. Thank you. We did have lots of fun and laughter. Stan's jokes were a hoot."

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And the celebrations aren't over yet!

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Innisfail Library will host a special Seniors Month gathering this Wednesday 21st October, from 10am to noon.

The event begins with morning tea at 10am, followed by games and activities from 10.30am, including intergenerational interviews with Cassowary Coast youth, trivia, Name the Song and Name the Famous Australian Sports Star.

It's another chance to enjoy some friendly competition, share a few stories and celebrate the valuable connections between generations.

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And while Seniors Month officially wraps up on 31st October, the opportunities to stay connected continue throughout the year, with local libraries offering regular activities including Scrabble, Mahjong, Craft & Laugh, Conversation Caféand Tech Help.

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See more photos here: www.hinchinbrooklife.com/social-pics/seniors-month-brings-fun-across-the-cassowary-coast

Volunteers removed over 100 kilograms of rubbish from Clump Point during two clean-ups last year Images supplied: Tangaroa Blue Foundation

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A few hours of volunteering can make a big difference to our marine environment, and Cassowary Coast residents are being encouraged to roll up their sleeves for the Clump Point beach clean-up on Sunday 25th October.

Organised by the Tangaroa Blue Foundation through its Great Barrier Reef Clean-up program, the afternoon event will bring volunteers together to remove marine debris from the Clump Point headland and nearby historic fish traps.

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Local coordinator Attie Willy, who has been organising clean-ups across the Cassowary Coast for around five years, says every piece of rubbish collected helps protect the region's precious coastal environment and marine life.

"It's not only an important traditional owners' site, but the southeasterly trade winds often put lots of marine debris onto the Clump Point headland," Attie explained.

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With larger tides approaching and the turtle breeding season underway, removing marine debris is particularly important.

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Last year, volunteers removed 110 kilograms of marine debris during two clean-ups at Clump Point and the Fish Traps. A further 76 kilograms was collected in March this year.

The upcoming event follows a successful clean-up at Kennedy Bay earlier this month, where volunteers removed an impressive 187 kilograms of rubbish, supported by the Girringun Land and Sea Rangers and Cassowary Coast Regional Council.

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Importantly, the collected debris is weighed and identified, with information entered into the Australian Marine Debris Initiative database. This national monitoring program helps identify pollution sources and trends, contributing to long-term strategies to reduce marine debris.

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THE DETAILS

Everyone is welcome to participate, with gloves and rubbish bags provided. Volunteers should wear sturdy enclosed shoes, bring sun protection, suitable weather gear and drinking water, preferably in a reusable bottle.

The clean-up runs from 2.00 pm to 4.30 pm on Sunday 25th October, meeting at the amenities block at the northern end of Porter Promenade, Mission Beach.

Register at atalanta@tangaroablue.org  

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Jacob Cassady and Kurt Harlow, represented here by Chamber President Mary Brown, took home top individual awards. Photo source: Mary Brown

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Two Hinchinbrook tourism operators swept up top honours at the North Queensland Tourism and Events Awards in Townsville on Friday 16^th October  

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Managing Director of Mungalla Aboriginal Tours Jacob Cassady won the Richard Power Award for Outstanding Contribution by an Individual, while Kurt Harlow of Hidden Valley Cabins and Tours received the Graham Jackson Young Achiever Award.  

Hinchinbrook Visitor Information Centre team are also celebrating recognition as finalists in two categories.

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Hinchinbrook Tourism Operators Recognised At North Queensland Awards

Two Hinchinbrook tourism operators have been recognised for their contributions to the region’s tourism industry, taking home top honours at the North Queensland Tourism and Events Awards.

Managing Director of Mungalla Aboriginal Tours Jacob Cassady won the Richard Power Award for Outstanding Contribution by an Individual, while Kurt Harlow of Hidden Valley Cabins and Tours received the Graham Jackson Young Achiever Award.

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Mungalla Aboriginal Tours are operated at Mungalla Station, approximately 12 kilometres east of Ingham, conducting tours and experiences that blend Nywaigi Aboriginal culture with pioneering history.  

According to the company’s mission statement, the homestead is a resource owned by Nywaigi Traditional Owners for the purpose of fostering Aboriginal cultural values by building economic and cultural opportunities for future generations through the careful use of Country, inviting visitors to experience ancient lands through ancient hands.

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“Indigenous-led tourism is an incredible way to create a genuine connection between visitors and Country,” Mr. Cassady recently told Townsville Enterprise.

"We’ve seen first-hand people don’t just want to see the landscape - they want to understand its history and hear its stories from the people who have cared for it for thousands of years.” 

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Hidden Valley Cabins & Tours is an eco-retreat venue which has been family owned and operated near the Paluma Range for over 35 years.  

The team praised Tour Guide Kurt Harlow on his recent win for the company.

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“For those who know Kurt, you know just how much heart, passion, knowledge and dedication he pours into everything he does,” a spokesperson shared.  

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“Kurt is so much more than a tour guide. His genuine love and respect for the natural world, his passion for conservation, sustainability and education, and his ability to share that knowledge with people from all walks of life is something truly special.

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“But behind all of that is also a husband, father, friend and one of the driving forces behind our little family business.”

President of the Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Tourism Mary Brown attended the awards, congratulating both winners on their achievements.

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“It was a privilege to be present to witness two of Hinchinbrook’s tourism operators announced as winners,” Ms Brown said.

She also acknowledged the Hinchinbrook Visitor Information Centre team, who were finalists in two categories.

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“Wonderful to acknowledge the many talented and committed people who support and deliver the diverse tourism experiences into the Hinchinbrook Shire,” Ms Brown said.

The North Queensland Tourism and Events Awards recognise excellence across the region’s tourism industry, celebrating the people, places, organisations and events that go above and beyond to deliver outstanding visitor experiences throughout Townsville North Queensland.

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One of the most common concerns I hear from residents across the Hinchinbrook Shire is the rising cost of insurance.

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Whether it's homeowners, families, retirees, farmers or small business owners, more people are telling us that insurance is becoming increasingly difficult to afford. For some, it is no longer just a financial inconvenience. It is becoming a significant source of stress and uncertainty.

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To better understand the challenges facing our community, Council recently undertook the Hinchinbrook Insurance Affordability and Availability Survey 2026. More than 300 residents took the time to share their experiences, providing valuable insight into the real impacts insurance costs are having across our region.

The findings paint a concerning picture.

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More than three-quarters of respondents reported insurance premiums are unaffordable, while many also identified high excesses, limited insurer choice and concerns surrounding flood insurance as major issues. Many residents indicated they have reduced their level of cover, increased their excesses or are considering going without certain insurance products altogether to manage rising household costs.

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The survey also highlighted widespread concern that insurance pricing does not always reflect the individual circumstances of a property. Many residents believe resilience measures such as raising homes, improving drainage, strengthening buildings and undertaking flood mitigation works should be better recognised when premiums are calculated.

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Importantly, this survey was undertaken as part of Council's ongoing recovery and advocacy efforts following the February 2025 flooding event. As our community continues to rebuild and strengthen its resilience, access to affordable and appropriate insurance remains a critical issue.

Council recognises that affordable insurance is about more than protecting buildings. It is about supporting confidence, financial security and the long-term resilience of our communities.

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On behalf of Council, I would like to sincerely thank everyone who took the time to complete the survey. The strong response from across the Shire demonstrates how important this issue is to our community. Your feedback has provided Council with valuable information that will strengthen our advocacy efforts and help ensure the experiences of Hinchinbrook residents are heard in discussions with governments, regulators and the insurance industry.

The findings of the Hinchinbrook Insurance Affordability and Availability Survey 2026 will be formally noted by Council at next week's Ordinary Meeting of Council and will help guide our ongoing advocacy with governments, industry stakeholders and insurance providers.

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The message from our community is clear: regional residents want fairer insurance outcomes, greater transparency and pricing that recognises individual property risk and resilience measures.

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Council will continue advocating strongly on behalf of our residents to ensure the voices of Hinchinbrook are heard and considered in future discussions around insurance affordability, availability and reform.

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Teaching Principal Laura-Beth Martin outside Abergowrie State School. Photo supplied

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Abergowrie State School Teaching Principal Laura-Beth Martin has been recognised for her outstanding contribution to education, receiving the Dr John Dwyer Excellent Leadership in Teaching and Learning Award at the 2026 Queensland College of Teachers (QCT) TEACHX Awards.

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The Queensland-wide awards celebrate excellence across the teaching profession, recognising educators who make a meaningful difference to students, colleagues and their wider school communities.

This year, the QCT received 375 nominations across all categories, with 84 shortlisted candidates and 26 award recipients recognised for their achievements across Queensland.

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For Laura-Beth, receiving the prestigious honour while leading a small rural school is a particularly meaningful achievement, reflecting her commitment to ensuring every child has access to quality learning opportunities, regardless of where they live.

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“I feel incredibly honoured and humbled to receive this award. To be recognised alongside so many inspiring educators from across Queensland is something I never imagined,” Laura-Beth said.

“Being a Teaching Principal in a small rural school means wearing many hats, but it also provides the wonderful opportunity to really know every child, their family and their individual strengths.

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“I have always believed that a child's postcode or the size of their school should never determine the opportunities available to them. Every child deserves to feel seen, valued and connected, and to have access to meaningful learning experiences that help them thrive.”

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Beginning her career in rural North Queensland, Laura-Beth has built a strong culture of belonging at Abergowrie State School through meaningful relationships with students, families and the wider community.

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Her leadership has extended beyond the classroom, with a commitment to reconciliation and cultural awareness strengthened through collaboration with Warrgamay Elders. This work contributed to Abergowrie State School receiving the 2024 Queensland Reconciliation Education Award.

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She has also championed nature-based and play-focused learning initiatives, creating opportunities for students to explore, develop new skills and learn beyond traditional classroom settings.

The Dr John Dwyer Excellent Leadership in Teaching and Learning Award recognises educators who demonstrate exceptional leadership, empower colleagues, positively influence their school communitiesand make an outstanding contribution to the teaching profession.

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Laura-Beth acknowledged that the recognition extended beyond her individual efforts, highlighting the collective work of the school community in supporting students and creating an environment where they can thrive.

“This award is not just about me. It reflects the dedication of our wonderful staff, the support of our families and the strong relationships we have built with our wider community,” she said.

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“At Abergowrie State School, we often say ‘Small School, Big Heart’, and I think this award is a lovely reminder that exceptional educational leadership isn't determined by the size of a school, but by the difference we make in the lives of children.

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“I am incredibly proud of our little school and what we continue to achieve together.”

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The 2026 TEACHX Awards recognised educators from metropolitan and regional settings, including Mossman, Abergowrie, Cloncurry, Rockhampton and Toowoomba, highlighting the important work being undertaken in schools across Queensland.

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Laura-Beth’s achievement will be celebrated with her students, colleagues and the broader Abergowrie community, alongside Hinchinbrook MP Wayde Chiesa. A date for the local celebration is yet to be confirmed.

Her recognition is a proud moment for Abergowrie State School and the wider Hinchinbrook community, demonstrating that the impact of strong educational leadership is not measured by the size of a school, but by the opportunities and impact created for its students.

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‍Students preparing for the 2026 Maraka Street Parade. Photos supplied

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Contributed with thanks by Gilroy Santa Maria College

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As this year’s Ingham Maraka Festival bursts to life with the vibrant energy and rhythm of Rio Carnivale, students from Gilroy Santa Maria College are stepping out in a Walk of Gratitude dedicated to the true heartbeat of our community: our local service groups and sporting clubs.

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Every weekend, match day, and late afternoon, these volunteer organisations and sports clubs quietly uplift Hinchinbrook. They mentor our youth, support our families, and fuel our unstoppable local spirit. They are the driving force that elevates Ingham, and they deserve nothing less than our entire town lining the streets in their honour.

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Channelling the colourful celebration of Carnivale while carrying messages of deep appreciation, GSMC students will march to salute these unsung heroes who give so tirelessly without ever asking for recognition.

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We invite every resident to crowd the footpaths, cheer with pride, and join the Carnivale celebration as we applaud the volunteers and clubs who make our region extraordinary. Come along to the MarakaFestival and let’s give our local champions the grand tribute they truly deserve!

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Our Lady of Lourdes Year 5 students enjoyed an unforgettable Leadership Camp at Echo Creek. Photos supplied: Our Lady of Lourdes

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Contributed with thanks by Our Lady of Lourdes

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Last week, our Year 5 students enjoyed an unforgettable Leadership Camp at Echo Creek, embracing adventure, challenging themselves and developing the skills they will need to become confident and capable leaders in 2027.

Our experience began with a visit to the Cardwell Historical Museum, where students explored the rich history of our local region. They learnt about significant cyclones, discovered how people communicated before modern technology and explored the fascinating world of Morse code. Students impressed us with their ability to recall and share interesting facts, bringing local history to life and deepening their understanding of our community.

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Upon arrival at Echo Creek, the adventure continued with an action-packed program delivered by Wildside Adventures. From muddy obstacle courses and challenging climbs to balancing, abseiling and rock climbing, students were encouraged to step outside their comfort zones. Throughout each activity, they demonstrated courage, resilience and determination, supporting one another and celebrating each other's achievements.

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Teamwork was a key focus, particularly during the raft-building challenge. Students collaborated to design and construct rafts capable of carrying their entire team across the dam. The challenge tested their communication, creativity and problem-solving skills, highlighting the importance of listening, sharing ideas and working towards a common goal.

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There were plenty of laughs and some creative designs along the way!

The fun continued after the day's activities, with an outdoor movie under the stars, card and board games, and entertaining rounds of charades. These relaxed moments provided wonderful opportunities to strengthen friendships, connect with peers and create lasting memories.

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One of the most rewarding aspects of the camp was witnessing the growth in students' confidence and independence. Whether encouraging a friend, contributing ideas during a team challenge or demonstrating kindness towards others, our Year 5 students displayed many of the qualities of effective leaders.

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We extend a heartfelt thank you to our dedicated staff and supportive families for helping make this experience possible. We are especially grateful to Allan and the wonderful teams at Echo Creek and Wildside Adventures for their hospitality, encouragement and the outstanding opportunities provided to our students.

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Filled with adventure, teamwork, laughter and personal growth, the camp was a valuable opportunity for students to discover their strengths and learn the importance of supporting others.

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Our Year 5 students have returned with wonderful memories, stronger friendships and growing confidence. We look forward to seeing them put these skills into practice as they step into their leadership roles in 2027!

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Students enjoyed their lessons in the pool. Photos supplied: Halifax State School

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Contributed with thanks by Halifax State School

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As the weather warms and the school year enters its final term, students at Halifax State School are diving into an exciting and valuable component of the Health and Physical Education (HPE) curriculum through the school's annual swimming program.

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Swimming is a vital life skill for all Australian children, particularly in Queensland, where waterways, beaches, and pools are a significant part of everyday life. Throughout Term 4, students have been participating in structured swimming lessons designed to build water confidence, improve swimming techniques, and develop essential water safety knowledge.

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The program caters to students of varying abilities, ensuring every child has the opportunity to learn and progress at their own level. From beginners gaining confidence in the water to more experienced swimmers refining their strokes, each lesson provides a supportive environment where students can challenge themselves and celebrate personal achievements.

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Teachers have been pleased to see the enthusiasm and determination shown by students. Beyond physical skill development, swimming lessons encourage resilience, perseverance, and self-confidence. Many students have demonstrated significant growth as they overcome fears, master new techniques, and support their peers throughout the program.

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The benefits of swimming extend well beyond the pool. Regular participation in aquatic activities promotes fitness, coordination, strength, and overall wellbeing. Just as importantly, students learn potentially life-saving water safety skills that can help them make safe decisions around aquatic environments.

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Halifax State School values opportunities that provide meaningful, real-world learning experiences, and the Term 4 swimming program continues to be a highlight of the HPE curriculum. The success of the program would not be possible without the support of dedicated staff, swimming instructors, and families who help ensure students can participate and thrive.

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As students continue making waves throughout the term, the school community is proud of their efforts and looks forward to seeing them build confidence and skills that will benefit them both in and out of the water for years to come.

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Photos supplied Ingham State High School

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Ingham State High School is proud to recognise the exceptional accomplishments of the following students, who have achieved a perfect score of 100% in all Internal Assessments this year.  

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This remarkable achievement reflects not only their diligence and determination but also their passion for learning and commitment to excellence.  

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Congratulations to Year 12 students:  

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Harry Flood who excelled in both Specialist Mathematics and Chemistry;  

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Nalini Schofield, Olivia Bishop and Keldon Fletcher who all achieved a perfect score in both Mathematical Methods and Chemistry; and

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Lucas Fallea who attained full marks in Biology.  

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Behind every successful student is a strong team. We proudly acknowledge the expertise and dedication of our teachers, the encouragement and support of families, and the contribution of our wider school community in helping our students reach their potential.

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At Ingham High, we believe in ‘𝗨𝗻𝗹𝗼𝗰𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗼𝗳 𝗘𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝗦𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁’, and the achievements of our Class of 2026 demonstrate what is possible when students are supported to aim high and believe in themselves.  

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Contributed with thanks by Ingham State High School

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Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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By Victoria Velton

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Welcome to the Cutting The Cane, a column where we have a chat with those supporting the backbone of the local economy: the farmers behind the sugar. This week Sam Torrisi, the current Director of CANEGROWERS Herbert River, who has been growing cane in the region for over 40 years, answered our questions with his multi-farm operation in mind. His paddocks span Upper Stone, Fairford, Cordelia and Sunnybank Sub-Districts.

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What stage are your paddocks at now?
With only around 4 weeks left of the crushing season, 2 of our 4 farms are cut out with around 10% of our total crop left to be harvested. The recent rain in the Lower Herbert and Central farms has allowed young ratoons and plant cane to grow nicely. But the Upper Stone farm, which missed out on those heavier showers, is looking for a drink. Sugar content has been very good this year, the best since 2019, but overall yield is down again.  

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This is very disappointing, with the Herbert district recording its fourth consecutive year crushing below four million tonnes of cane, despite having the capacity to crush nearly five million tonnes. Maximising the value of our crops must be a priority, and starting the season too early or finishing too late is not the answer. The focus must be on harvesting the majority of the crop between early July and late October.

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Consistently returning crushing rates to more than 200,000 tonnes per week is also essential, and this is an achievable target.

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What varieties of cane are you growing?
I try and spread the risk by planting a couple of varieties. Depending on soil type, the main varieties I’ve planted are Q253, Q200, Q208, SRA 28, SRA 6 and SRA 26. Unfortunately, SRA 26 which was showing promise, is now underperforming in older ratoons in heavy clay soils.  

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This year I am trying some of the newer varieties such as SRA 40 and SRA 43 to see how they will perform, but I also planted the older varieties like Q200 and Q253, which I’ve been able to still rely on. I also tried some tissue culture seedlings of SRA 32 and hope this variety will perform well.

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What challenges have faced your crops this year?
The Upper Stone farm is by far the driest of all the farms, not only dry ground conditions but cane grub damage this year has affected a lot of plants causing them to die out and not ratoon there. SRA is currently doing trials to see how effective the current insecticides are performing and what possible new insecticides could be effective against controlling cane grubs.

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With the wet season looming, how are you preparing to face the seasonal change?
With the possible wet season not far off, as a grower, I am very mindful of the potential flooding that can occur. If I know for certain that a ploughed-out block will be subjected to high waterflow across it, I will take the option to spray the ratoons out leaving it uncultivated with a trash blanket.  

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This is to preserve the topsoil from washing away, which was evident in the 2025 floods where many cultivated fallows blocks were badly eroded. Once that topsoil is gone it’s gone forever.  

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All the Senior Leaders of the school with Principal Johanna Smith Photos supplied: GSMC

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Contributed with thanks by Gilroy Santa Maria College

Term 4 has started with much momentum and excitement at Gilroy Santa Maria College, especially for Year 11 and 12 students.  

The Year 12 cohort has been truly shining with their academic achievements. Queensland Curriculum Authority (QCAA) have confirmed that multiple students have achieved 100% in their recent internal assessments. This success is the result of countless hours of effort by the students and is shaping bright futures for 2027 and beyond.

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These students are currently in their final week of classes, with Year 12 external exam block commencing from Monday 26th October.  

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While this chapter is coming to a close, another is just beginning for the current Year 11 GSMC students. Recently, students with aspirations of leading the College in 2027 experienced the process of applying for a leadership position. From their written application, through to speaking in front of the entire student body and sitting through interviews with Senior Leaders of the school, the students demonstrated courage, passion and resilience.  

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Leading GSMC in 2027 will be;

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College Captains: Joel Accornero, Ciera Fichera and Summer Christopher.  

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Pillar Captains: Daniel Winstone, Chloe Bradd and Kaitlyn Rapista.  

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House Captains:
Rice - Sofia Inunciaga and Ben Poggio.  
O’Meara - Molly-Rose Gaggiano and Liam Swarbrick.  
McAuley - Allie Gaggiano and Maximo Lenzo.

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The 2027 elected leaders will commence their duties across Term 4, with the current Student Leaders completing their duties at the GSMC Awards Night this Thursday.

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Introducing Speckles, a delightful cat whose unique speckled coat is as charming as her personality! This young feline mother was discovered on the goldfields, living under a container, and has now stepped into town life to find a new, loving place she can truly call home. With her tabby stripes interspersed with flecks of gold, it's as though her fur is sprinkled with tiny treasures, adding to her distinct and captivating appearance.

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Speckles is not just a pretty face; she has a friendly disposition that suggests she was once a cherished companion. While Speckles is yet to be introduced to other animals, her amiable nature indicates she could adjust well, given a gentle and patient introduction.  

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With Speckles in your life, you'll gain not just a pet, but a little piece of gold. She is ready to fill a special place in your heart and home with her warmth and grace. If you're ready to embrace the joys of sharing your life with this endearing and unique companion, she could be the perfect addition to your home.

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Included in adoption fee of $225 DESEXED, MICRO-CHIPPED, up to date VACCINATIONS, FLEA/TICK/INTESTINAL WORM treated. Enquire today at angelpawsinc.com.au/pets-for-adoption/cats/

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Sex: Female
Breed: Domestic Short Hair
Colour: Brown-Orange Tabby
DOB: 01/09/2025
Cat Friendly: Yes
Dog Friendly: Unsure
Kid Friendly: Unsure

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Nicole Chiesa, one of the two recipients of the 2026 Tim Fischer Fellowship. Photo supplied

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North Queensland agricultural business owner and Link 2 Country co-founder Nicole Chiesa has been named one of the 2026 Tim Fischer Fellows, receiving access to a national CEF support network to bring ambitious education projects with the potential to create lasting change across rural and regional Australia to life.  

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Established in honour of former Deputy Prime Minister and CEF founding Patron Tim Fischer AC, the Fellowship backs people with the vision, passion and practical ideas to create meaningful opportunities for rural and regional communities.

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CEF CEO Wendy Mason said the decision reflected both the strength of this year’s applications and the enormous potential of Nicole's project.

“The Tim Fischer Fellowship was created to back people who understand regional Australia, who see an opportunity to make a difference and have the determination to turn an idea into something practical,” Ms Mason said.  

This year the panel was presented with two exceptional projects addressing very different, but equally important, challenges facing regional communities. Rather than choose between them, they invested in both.  

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“Nicole and Erin [the other recipient] share the qualities this Fellowship is designed to support — strong connections to rural and regional communities, a genuine commitment to education and a clear vision for creating change that can extend well beyond the life of the Fellowship.”  

Nicole Chiesa, from Ingham, will use her Fellowship to expand the Agri Life Skills Program developed through social enterprise Link 2 Country, creating a repeatable model that can be delivered through agricultural shows, field days, careers expos and community events across rural and regional Australia.  

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Drawing on a career with experience across cattle stations, agricultural education, rural merchandise and her family’s sugarcane harvesting business, Nicole has seen first-hand the difficulties regional businesses can face attracting the next generation of workers.  

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The Agri Life Skills Program gives young people hands-on exposure to agriculture and other regional industries while connecting them directly with employers, education providers and training pathways. More than 1,000 young people have already participated in Link 2 Country initiatives, developing practical and employability skills while discovering careers they may otherwise never have considered.  

Nicole will use the Fellowship to develop a digital platform supporting school registrations, compliance, resources and communication, together with a repeatable program model that communities can adapt to their own industries, workforce needs and opportunities.  

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“For me, this is about giving young people the chance to have a go, discover what interests them and meet the people who can help open doors for their future,” Ms Chiesa said.  

“There are incredible careers and opportunities in rural and regional Australia, but young people need the chance to see and experience them. By bringing education, industry and community together, we can help young people make informed choices about their future while building stronger, more connected regional communities.”  

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CEF Chair Nick Burton Taylor said both projects reflected Tim Fischer’s belief in the transformative power of education and opportunity for people living outside Australia’s major cities.  

“Tim understood that where you live should never determine the opportunities available to you,” Mr Burton Taylor said.

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Tim Fischer’s wife Judy Brewer said she believed her late husband would have been immensely proud to see the Fellowship supporting two projects with such strong connections to regional people and communities.  

“Tim was passionate about regional Australia and particularly about giving people, wherever they live, the education, confidence and opportunities they needed to build their futures,” Ms Brewer said.  

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“He believed strongly in people who were prepared to have a go and turn good ideas into practical action."

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After recently attending the locally initiated Spotlight on Seafood opening, congratulations to the organisers, I was reminded of the increasing pressures facing two industries fundamental to our region: fishing and agriculture.

Sensible regulation is necessary. Our farmers and professional fishers understand the importance of protecting the environment because their livelihoods depend on healthy land and waterways. But there must be balance.

Commercial fishers now face the phase-out of inshore net fishing by mid-2027, affecting traditional methods used to catch species including barramundi and king salmon. After decades of adapting to changing regulations, we must ask whether the cumulative impact is threatening the viability of local professional fishing.

Do we want to become increasingly reliant on seafood sourced from elsewhere while reducing the ability of generational local fishers to supply fresh wild-caught seafood?

Sugarcane farmers are facing similar challenges. Regulatory decisions have removed or restricted important agricultural chemicals, including chlorpyrifos, known as Suscon, to control the cane grubs, whose immediate effects we are seeing now, with cane grub damage reducing crop yield and crop cycles. Whilst paraquat use in sugarcane to control certain invasive weeds is also being phased out under new regulatory arrangements.

Health and environmental protection are important, but so too are food production, regional employment and viable family businesses.

The issue is not whether we should have regulation. The issue is whether we have achieved the right balance between environmental protection and maintaining sustainable, productive local industries.

Once professional fishers, farmers, infrastructure and generations of knowledge disappear, they will be difficult to replace.

Our fishing and agricultural industries provide food, employment and economic activity while forming an important part of the identity of regional communities.

We must ensure regulation supports responsible primary production rather than making it increasingly difficult to continue.

Our primary industries helped build regional Australia and we must make sure they remain part of its future. We should protect our environment, but we must also protect the responsible primary producers who feed us and sustain regional Australia.

Until next time Hinchinbrook residents, take care, stay safe and be kind.

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Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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Kaiti-Rae Beatts | 24

Service Club Sponsor: Apex Club of Herbert River

Hobbies & Interests

Kaiti-Rae loves photography, capturing Hinchinbrook’s landscapes, wildlife and people, as well as spending time outdoors with her dogs. At home, she enjoys cooking for loved ones, crocheting gifts and writing her fantasy adventure novel. She is passionate about supporting her community, serving as Youth Co-Ordinator for the Purple Bucket Foundation and helping organise local fundraisers, including Ronald McDonald McHappy Day. She is also an active member of the Hinchinbrook Agricultural Show Committee.

Life Goals

Kaiti-Rae hopes to publish her fantasy novel and see it available in local shops or the community library. As a young homeowner, she also dreams of growing her family, continuing to support local eventsand one day organising her own community events in Hinchinbrook.

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Paige Williamson | 23

Service Club Sponsor: Lions Club of Ingham

Hobbies & Interests

Paige enjoys photography, camping and heading out on new adventures. Whether she is exploring the outdoors or capturing special moments behind the camera, she loves making memories along the way. Spending quality time with her family is also important to her, and she enjoys sharing life's experiences with the people closest to her.

Life Goals

Paige dreams of travelling the world, discovering new places and experiencing different cultures. She hopes to explore as much of the world as possible, embracing new adventures and making lasting memories along the way.

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Janae Pearce | 20

Service Club Sponsor: Lions Club of Lower Herbert Halifax

Hobbies & Interests

Janae has a passion for musical theatre, sport and content creation. She enjoys playing touch football and netball, while her interest in Indigenous studies reflects her commitment to learning more about culture, identity and community. Janae is enthusiastic about developing her creative talents and expanding her knowledge both on and off the stage.

Life Goals

Janae hopes to complete university, strengthen and support local Indigenous communities, and continue developing her skills and knowledge in musical theatre. She also dreams of travelling, exploring new places and broadening her experiences along the way.

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Brianna Lamari | 24

Service Club Sponsor: Rotary Club of Hinchinbrook

Hobbies & Interests

Brianna enjoys keeping active through squash and has achieved her second-degree black belt in taekwondo. A passionate football fan, she also loves spending time with family and friends. Whether she is pursuing her sporting interests or enjoying time with loved ones, Brianna values staying connected to the people and activities she enjoys.

Life Goals

Brianna hopes to put down roots in Hinchinbrook, own her own home with a large backyard and raise a family in the community she loves. She also dreams of sharing her home with a few adopted animals, creating a happy and welcoming place for her family to grow.

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Jacob Cassidy of Mungalla Aboriginal Tours won the Richard Power Award for Outstanding Contribution by an Individual, while Kurt Harlow of Hidden Valley Cabins and Tours received the Graham Jackson Young Achiever Award. Chamber President Mary Brown seen here holding Kurt’s award. Photo source: Mary Brown

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Two Hinchinbrook tourism operators have been recognised for their contributions to the region’s tourism industry, taking home top honours at the North Queensland Tourism and Events Awards on Friday October 16th.

Jacob Cassidy of Mungalla Aboriginal Tours won the Richard Power Award for Outstanding Contribution by an Individual, while Kurt Harlow of Hidden Valley Cabins and Tours received the Graham Jackson Young Achiever Award.

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President of the Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Tourism Mary Brown attended the awards, congratulating both winners on their achievements.

“It was a privilege to be present to witness two of Hinchinbrook’s tourism operators announced as winners,” Ms Brown said.

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She also acknowledged the Hinchinbrook Visitor Information Centre team, who were finalists in two categories.

“Wonderful to acknowledge the many talented and committed people who support and deliver the diverse tourism experiences into the Hinchinbrook Shire,” Ms Brown said.

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The North Queensland Tourism and Events Awards recognise excellence across the region’s tourism industry, celebrating the people, places, organisations and events that go above and beyond to deliver outstanding visitor experiences throughout Townsville North Queensland.

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Hinchinbrook Cup Races 2025, Fashions in the Fields Classic Lady of the Track Winner & Runner-up. Photo credit: Donna Marbelli

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The race that brings the region together is back, with the Herbert River Jockey Club preparing for a day of country racing, trackside fashion and live music when the NQIB Country Cups Challenge Qualifier and Hinchinbrook Cup Race Day returns on Saturday, 14th November 2026.  

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With five local races on the card, punters can enjoy a full day trackside before the celebrations continue into the evening with local band SuperSweet taking to the stage from 6pm.  

Gates at the Herbert River Jockey Club, 67-69 Marina Parade, Ingham, will open at 11am, with local and southern bookmakers, Sky Racing and the ever-popular Fashions on the Field adding to the race day atmosphere.  

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This year's Fashions on the Field, will embrace the theme Country Glamour, inviting racegoers to put their own spin on trackside style.  

Categories include Contemporary Lady of the Track, Classic Lady of the Track, Best Dressed Man of the Track, Millinery, Spotter's Choice and Kids categories.  

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With prizes supported by local and surrounding businesses, the competition offers racegoers an opportunity to showcase their personal style while adding a splash of glamour to the day's festivities. Judging takes place between races, giving spectators the chance to watch the fashion proceedings trackside.  

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General admission is $15 per person, with tickets available online in advance or at the gate on race day. Tables seating 10 people can be reserved online for $100 per table.  

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Food will be available from the race day canteen, operated by Marian and Piera Catering as patrons are reminded that eskies, glass, BYO alcohol, containers of liquid, tables and chairs are not permitted through the gate.  

For tickets and table bookings scan the QR code below, and for further information, visit www.hrjc.com.au

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WHAT: HRJC Country Cups Challenge and Hinchinbrook Cup Race Day
WHEN: 11am, Saturday, 14th November 2026
WHERE: Herbert River Jockey Club, 67-69 Marina Parade, Ingham

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Representatives from local services and providers at the disaster preparedness display, including Casie Scott, Jane Carne, Councillor Donna Marbelli, Josie Pickering and Dan Cordner Photo credit: Sherie Hensler-Adams

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Hinchinbrook residents had the opportunity to speak directly with local emergency services and telecommunications providers at a disaster preparedness pop-up display held at the Woolworths Complex in Ingham on Wednesday 14th October.

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Hosted by the Hinchinbrook Local Disaster Management Group, the event aimed to help residents prepare for the upcoming wet season by providing practical advice, answering questions and highlighting the importance of being ready for cyclones, floods and severe storms.

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Representatives from the State Emergency Service (SES) Halifax and Ingham Groups, Queensland Police Service, Hinchinbrook Shire Council, Telstra and NBN Australia were on hand throughout the day to share information and discuss simple steps households can take to improve their preparedness.

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Topics included preparing emergency kits, maintaining adequate food and drinking water supplies, planning for power outages, ensuring access to essential medications and developing a household emergency plan.

With the 2025 February weather event still a fresh memory, residents were also encouraged to consider whether their households could remain self-sufficient for seven to 10 days if a similar severe weather cut road access and prevented essential supplies from reaching the region.

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Knowing where to find important documents, emergency contacts and essential medications was also highlighted as an important part of preparing for an emergency.

With the wet season approaching, the display provided an opportunity for community members to seek advice directly from local services and better understand the resources available to help protect themselves, their families, pets and properties.

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Residents can access local disaster warnings, updates and preparedness information through the Hinchinbrook Disaster Information website at disaster.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au

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Jane from the Hinchinbrook Local Disaster Management Group, Jenna from Queensland Health, Chloe from Australian Red Cross and members of the Ingham Lions Club worked together to put on a BBQ at Anzac Memorial Park. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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A sausage sizzle, a cool drink and a friendly conversation brought locals together at Anzac Memorial Park as the Australian Red Cross teamed up with the Hinchinbrook Local Disaster Management Group, Queensland Health and the Ingham Lions Club to promote wet season preparedness, mental health support and community connection, particularly for Ingham’s most vulnerable residents.

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Held on Tuesday 13th October, the free community event aimed to help residents, particularly those experiencing housing instability, prepare for the months ahead. The event provided practical advice, answered questions and highlighted the importance of being ready for cyclones, floods and severe storms, especially for people who may have limited access to resources or support.

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Representatives from the Australian Red Cross and Queensland Health also set up information tables, sharing useful resources and goodie bags while offering advice.

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The event demonstrated the value of community support in its simplest form.

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Sometimes, looking after one another starts with a snag in the park.

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It is time to get ready people as we start to enter our high risk weather season, our well regarded wet season.

The key to getting ready revolves around three key elements. Know the risk that you may face. Make a plan on how you will deal with those risks and then make preparations to fit your plan including getting an emergency kit together.

There is a lot of information available both in digital format or hard copy if you need assistance with knowing your risks or how to prepare. Hard copy information is available at Council’s main office on Lannercost Street, and digitally you can find information on Council's website, Disaster Support & Preparedness page www.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au/Community-and-Events/Disaster-Support-Preparedness

A Get Ready Queensland stall will be held at the Woolworths complex, 29 Ann Street, Ingham, on Wednesday 14th October between 8.30am and 2.30pm. The display is being hosted by our Hinchinbrook Local Disaster Management Group and will bring together representatives from Council, SES, Queensland Police and NBN. It will be a great opportunity to learn more about disaster preparedness, ask questions and access practical information ahead of the upcoming wet and cyclone season.

So it will be great to see you there.

And talking about Telstra, are you aware of the new Temporary Disaster Roaming (TDR) capability. If your mobile network is affected during an extreme weather event, such as a bushfire, flood or cyclone, your phone may be able to connect to another participating carrier's mobile network, where available, to help you make essential calls and texts. If Telstra is the only network operating in the affected area, Optus and TPG customers may also be able to connect through Telstra network where safe to do so. This new capability is already online and ready in time for this disaster season. It’s designed to help customers stay connected, with access to essential calls, texts and basic data where possible and there is no extra cost.

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Mayor Jayo was part of a mayoral delegation standing up against proposed changes to disaster relief funding. Photo source: LGAQ

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The Federal Government has scrapped proposed changes to disaster recovery funding following strong opposition from Queensland councils and the State Government.  

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Hinchinbrook Mayor Ramon Jayo had previously shared warnings that the changes would have placed an unsustainable financial burden on the region.

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Hinchinbrook Welcomes Disaster Funding Reversal

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By Victoria Velton

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The Federal Government’s decision to abandon proposed changes to disaster recovery funding has been welcomed by all levels of local and state government, who warned a shift to a 50:50 funding split would have placed significant financial pressure on the region’s disaster-prone communities.

The announcement, made on Friday 9th October, follows strong opposition from Queensland councils, mayors and the State Government, who argued the proposed changes would leave local authorities struggling to cover the additional costs of rebuilding after natural disasters.

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Under the proposal, the Federal Government would have reduced its disaster recovery contribution from up to 75 per cent to a flat 50 per cent, increasing the financial burden on state and local governments.

Mayor of Hinchinbrook said the decision to rescind the changes was a relief for the region, which regularly faces flooding and other natural disasters.

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“We're thankful for the government listening to our concerns,” Mayor Ramon Jayo said.

“It was going to be a significant cost to our community, a cost that our community cannot afford. So we're very grateful to the government for listening.”

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The Mayor said Hinchinbrook’s geography made the region particularly vulnerable to flooding, with the Herbert River draining nearly 70 per cent of all rainfall in the Wet Tropics area.

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The potential financial implications were a significant concern for the local authority, which has limited resources to absorb additional disaster recovery costs.

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“I'll start sleeping at night now,” Mayor Ramon Jayo said.

“It was very concerning because we tend to have a disaster every year. If not, every second year.”

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Over the past decade, Hinchinbrook has been impacted by natural disasters to the extent of approximately $70 million, averaging between $3 million and $3.5 million annually.

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“We're only a small council, a small local authority area,” the Mayor said.

“In the current climate, that's just about impossible to find without significantly impacting our community.”

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Queensland Premier David Crisafulli also welcomed the Federal Government’s decision, thanking the Prime Minister for listening to concerns raised by the State Government and councils across Queensland.

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“We now wait to see further details, and ensure this is delivered and funding arrangements are maintained in full, so Queenslanders can have certainty and confidence in their hour of need during disaster season,” Mr Crisafulli said.

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The Premier said the State Government had stood alongside mayors, the Local Government Association of Queensland and councils to oppose the proposed changes, adding that the decision would help protect the state’s disaster recovery arrangements ahead of the upcoming season.

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Hinchinbrook MP Wayde Chiesa described the announcement as “great news for Queensland and particularly our communities across Hinchinbrook”.

Mr Chiesa said North Queensland’s history of cyclones and flooding demonstrated why reliable disaster recovery funding was essential.

“Our coastline between Townsville and Cairns is one of the most disaster-prone regions in Australia,” he said.

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“Who could forget Cyclone Larry, Cyclone Yasi, Cyclone Kirrily, the devastating Townsville floods in 2019 or the floods that swept through our region again in 2025?”

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“For North Queenslanders, natural disasters aren’t once-in-a-generation events. They’re a reality of where we live.”

Mr Chiesa said regional councils and communities could not afford to shoulder additional rebuilding costs every time disaster struck, acknowledging the collective advocacy of Queensland’s 77 mayors in opposing the proposal.

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“The devil will be in the detail, but today’s announcement is a positive step,” he said.

“I’ll continue fighting to ensure Hinchinbrook gets its fair share of disaster recovery funding. It’s simply too important not to get it right.”

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While the decision to abandon the proposed changes has provided relief for councils and communities, further details are still needed to confirm the arrangements will be maintained in full.

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For Hinchinbrook, where disaster recovery costs place ongoing pressure on a small council’s budget, maintaining the existing funding arrangements will be critical to ensuring the region can recover when the next disaster strikes.

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The Riverfest Queen competition attracted five entrants, with Amity Stewart crowned Riverfest Queen and Sofia Xiong receiving the Community Spirit Award. Photo credit: Vince Sofia

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Innisfail turned on the party, with record crowds flocking to Riverfest for a huge celebration of music, machinery and community spirit.

An estimated 10,000 people attended over the weekend, filling the riverfront for Innisfail’s biggest Riverfest yet. Australian rock favourites Eskimo Joe brought the festival to a spectacular close, capping off an unforgettable weekend.

Among the highlights was the Riverfest Queen competition, with five local contestants stepping into the spotlight. With attractions for all ages, sold-out food stalls and outstanding community support, Riverfest once again proved Innisfail knows how to put on a show.

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Riverfest Rocks Innisfail With Record Crowds

By Helen Cook

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Innisfail's Riverfest has delivered its biggest celebration yet, with thousands flocking to the riverfront at the weekend for an afternoon and evening packed with entertainment, attractions and community spirit.

Committee member Vince Sofia described this year's event as a resounding success, with crowds believed to have exceeded last year's estimated 10,000 visitors.

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"It was fantastic. It was so well supported by the community. It was definitely the largest crowd we've ever pulled," Vince said.

Australian rock favourites Eskimo Joe brought the celebrations to a spectacular close, while local band Beer Body proved a huge hit, warming up the crowd ahead of the headline act.

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Throughout the afternoon, families enjoyed reptile displays, roving entertainment, vintage and new car displays, and an impressive collection of sugar industry machinery, including locomotives, a steam engine and cane harvesting equipment.

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An aerobatic display by pilot Bob Harris added excitement overhead, while television personality Paul Burt returned as event ambassador and MC.

The Riverfest Queen competition attracted five entrants, with Amity Stewart crowned Riverfest Queen and Sofia Xiong receiving the Community Spirit Award.

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With food stalls reportedly selling out and glowing feedback flooding social media, Vince said the response had been overwhelming.

He paid tribute to the local businesses, sponsors, volunteers and community organisations whose contributions made the event possible.

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"Without them, this event would not happen," he said.

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For Innisfail, Riverfest was another shining example of what a community can achieve when everyone gets behind a great local celebration.

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Ingham Wholelife Pharmacy & Healthfoods stocks a large range of protein options. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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Protein Packs A Punch!

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When we think of protein, it is easy to picture gym-goers reaching for a shake before a workout. But protein plays an important role in everyone’s diet, helping the body build and repair muscles, supporting healthy bones, and maintainingtissues throughout the body.

Getting enough protein can also help you feel fuller for longer, making it an important part of a balanced diet and a healthy approach to maintaining energy throughout the day.

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Protein is found naturally in a wide range of foods, including meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, beans, lentils, nuts and seeds. However, busy lifestyles can sometimes make it difficult to get enough through meals alone.

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That is where convenient protein products can help. Ingham Wholelife Pharmacy & Healthfoods stocks a variety of protein options to suit different tastes, routines and dietary needs, including ready-to-drink shakes, grab-and-go protein bars, and suit-to-size options for powders and cordials.

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Whether you are looking for a convenient breakfast option, something to keep you going between meals or nutritional support when exercising, there are plenty of ways to incorporate protein into your daily routine.

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Ingham Wholelife Pharmacy & Healthfoods is running a huge 40 per cent off on select protein products, so now’s the time to pop in and explore their vast range and find an option that suits you.

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Hinchinbrook residents will have the opportunity to learn more about staying connected during emergencies when the nbn team visits Ingham for this week’s Get Set For the Wet event.

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The nbn team will be available to answer questions about emergency connectivity, network resilience and the Fibre to the Premises upgrades being rolled out in Ingham.

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Residents can also learn how nbn emergency messaging helps keep communities informed about network impacts during emergency events, providing important information when severe weather and other disruptions affect telecommunications services.

The visit will give locals the chance to discuss connectivity options available for their individual properties and find out whether their address may be eligible for an upgrade.

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With the wet season approaching, understanding how to stay informed and connected during an emergency is an important part of household preparedness.

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Community members are encouraged to drop by, ask questions and speak directly with the nbn team about their connectivity needs.

Residents can also check their eligibility for regional connectivity upgrades online at www.nbn.com.au/CheckRegional

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WHAT: nbn team public connect Get Set For the Wet
WHEN: 8:30am – 2:30pm, Wednesday 14th October 2026
WHERE: Woolworths Complex, 29 Ann Street, Ingham

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There are some places that will always hold a special place in your heart, and for me, Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club is one of them. It is the club I grew up in, and over the weekend it was wonderful to return for the annual surf lifesaving carnival and catch up with so many familiar faces.

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On Saturday, I was pleased to support the club's Life Members function, recognising the people who have dedicated so much of their lives to surf lifesaving and our local community.

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These clubs are built on generations of volunteers, families and members who give their time to keep our beaches safe and create opportunities for young people. Forrest Beach is a wonderful example of that community spirit.

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Sunday morning was particularly special, as we gathered with family, friends and club members to remember former Patron and Life Member Kauko Kaurila, following his recent passing.

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Kauk was a remarkable man whose contribution to surf lifesaving spanned generations. He became a Life Member in 1955–56, served as Patron for 70 years and was an accomplished champion in surf and belt swimming.

In 1954, he also won the inaugural Magnetic Island to Townsville Swim.

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It was a privilege to join his family and the club in laying a wreath into the ocean he loved so much. People like Kauk helped build the club I was fortunate enough to grow up in, and his legacy will live on through the generations who follow.

My thoughts remain with his family and everyone at Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club.

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There has also been encouraging progress on another important commitment for our region, the revitalisation of Port Hinchinbrook.

The latest update confirms that the assessment of dredging tenders has progressed, site preparation is underway and environmental approval processes continue.

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There is still plenty of work ahead, but each step brings us closer to restoring this important asset and unlocking new opportunities for Cardwell and the broader region.

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This week, I am back in Brisbane for Parliament, continuing to raise the issues that matter to our communities.

Whether it is community safety, supporting our local industries, improving infrastructure or delivering on commitments like Port Hinchinbrook, I remain focused on making sure Hinchinbrook's voice is heard.

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And weekends like the one at Forrest Beach are a reminder of exactly why that work matters - our people, our communities and the generations who have helped make Hinchinbrook such a special place to call home.

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Celebrations were hosted at the Upper Stone CWA hall, with a cutting of a ribbon to signify the opening of the new mobile base station. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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By Victoria Velton

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Residents and visitors to Upper Stone are now better connected following the installation of a new mobile base station funded by the Federal Government and Telstra through the Mobile Black Spot Program.

The improved mobile coverage is expected to benefit the small community west of Ingham, supporting local sugar-cane farming operations, businesses and visitors exploring the walking trails and camping areas near Girringun National Park.

Hinchinbrook Shire Deputy Mayor Mary Brown said the improved connectivity would make a significant difference to everyday life in the community.

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“You only have to look at the community here to understand what connectivity means to them. Speaking with Lorna, the Australia Post contractor, she explained that without Telstra coverage, she couldn’t scan parcels to drop them off. There was no coverage, so she couldn’t do her job.

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“Connectivity changes people’s lives, even in ordinary circumstances, let alone during emergencies. People in cities and urban areas often take electricity and communications for granted, but almost everything we do now relies on connectivity.

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“When you don’t have those basics, it limits what you can do in your everyday life. The locals are immensely appreciative to have this connectivity where previously they had none.”

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Federal Minister for Communications Anika Wells said the new infrastructure was part of the Government’s broader investment in regional telecommunications.

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“No Australian should be left behind when it comes to connectivity and we are investing heavily in telecommunications infrastructure in partnership with industry to keep places like Upper Stone connected.”

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Telstra Regional General Manager Rachel Cliffe said the tower would strengthen the community’s connectivity and resilience, particularly during emergencies.

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“The new tower at Upper Stone is a significant investment in the connectivity and resilience of the local community. Reliable mobile coverage is essential during times of disaster and emergency, helping residents stay informed, contact emergency services, and keep in touch with family and friends when it matters most.

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“Beyond emergencies, this new infrastructure will support day-to-day life and economic activity in the region, including improved connectivity for local farming operations and businesses that increasingly rely on digital technology to remain productive and competitive.

“It has been wonderful to partner with the Australian Government to deliver this crucial technology, ensuring communities like Upper Stone can access the connectivity they need to live, work and thrive.”

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The Mobile Black Spot Program has supported funding for more than 1,400 new mobile base stations nationwide, representing a combined investment of more than $1 billion.

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Recent rounds of the program form part of the Better Connectivity Plan for Regional and Rural Australia, which aims to improve telecommunications access across the country.

The Ogilvie family took out first prize for the most fish caught by a family, reeling in an impressive 103 tilapia. Cr Jeff Baines presented the winning prize. Photo: Cassowary Coast Regional Council

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Young anglers and families have reeled in some impressive results at the 2026 Tilapia Tournament at Warrina Lakes, with the winners announced following another successful community event.

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Over two and a half days, 444 participants caught an incredible 2,163 tilapia, helping reduce the number of invasive pest fish threatening local waterways.

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Among the standout competitors was Lucian Di Carlo, who dominated the 13–18 years category, catching an impressive 212 fish and landing the longest at 31cm.

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In the 6–12 years category, Spencer Torrisi topped the boys' tally with 144 fish, while Jamine Zupp led the girls with 33. Riley Guerra caught the longest boys' fish at 30cm, while Jessika Tammiku landed the longest girls' catch at 29cm.

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The youngest anglers also showed plenty of enthusiasm. In the five years and under category, Elani De Maria caught 54 fish and recorded the longest girls' catch at 29cm, while Brody McSwan reeled in 48 fish. William Scarfe landed the longest boys' fish at 29.5cm.

In the teenage girls' category, Amber Carita took out both prizes, catching one fish measuring 25cm.

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Families also got into the competitive spirit, with the Ogilvie family taking first place in Saturday's family competition with 103 fish, followed by the Torrisi family with 87, Higgins family with 83 and Lysons family with 33.

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Good Counsel Primary School claimed the Best School award.

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Beyond the prizes, the tournament gave young people an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, develop their fishing skills and learn about protecting local waterways.

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With the weather warming up the pool is calling, and Mission Beach Aquatic Centre lifeguard Danny Foersfrank is keeping an eye on swimmers and catching up on what's happening around the region in Cassowary Coast Life.

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The Year 12 student at Tully State High School works part-time at the pool, where he has a pretty cool spot to spend the warmer months. With graduation just around the corner, Danny is looking forward to finishing school and considering his next adventure.

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He plans to stay in the area initially, working at the pool for a while before heading off to travel – preferably “somewhere with a very different, cooler, climate,” he says.

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For now, you'll find Danny poolside, catching up on the news and helping everyone stay safe in the water.

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Julie Dean in her Tully salon where she employs seven staff and trains the next generation of local beauty therapists. Photo credit: Helen Cook

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What began as a small home-based beauty business while raising two young children has blossomed into a thriving Tully salon, employing seven staff and offering an extensive range of beauty treatments.

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For local businesswoman Julie Dean, the growth of Julie’s Beauty Spot has been an unexpected journey since she first opened her doors in 1998.

“I started from home first because I had two little babies, and it was only ever meant to be just a couple of days a week, just to keep my hand in,” Julie said.  

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“It was never meant to be what it's become!”

After seven years working from home, Julie moved into premises in Still Street, where the business expanded and she began employing and training local young women.

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“I’ve trained a lot of young girls over the years, and loved it,” she said.

Through school-based and other traineeships, Julie has helped young women gain qualifications and practical experience in beauty therapy, including makeup, lashes and brows.

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Her commitment to her team is reflected in the loyalty of long-serving therapists Narelle and Haylee, who have each been with her for 18 years.

The business is also a family affair. Daughter Jessica returned to Tully after five years in Canada, where she worked in the film industry as a special effects makeup artist. Today, she helps manage the salon and its social media.

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Two years ago, Julie and husband Ando completed their biggest project yet transforming a former shed into a purpose-built beauty salon.

“While both of us were running our businesses, we did this after work and weekends to build what we've got. We're very proud of what we've created in here.”

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Today, the salon offers everything from facials, massage and waxing to manicures, pedicures, gel and acrylic nails, lash extensions, brow treatments, spray tanning, massage and special-occasion makeup.

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With Christmas parties, graduations and summer celebrations just around the corner, Julie and her team are gearing up for a busy season. Book early to secure your preferred appointment at Julie’s Beauty Spot, 8 Watkins Street, Tully. Phone 4068 2788 or visit www.juliesbeautyspot.com.

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Jules celebrates 10 years in her Mission Beach boutique with new eye-catching signage. Photo credit: Helen Cook

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With a love of colour, an eye for something different and a passion for helping women look and feel their best, Jules Fashions is celebrating 10 years in its current Mission Beach premises, complete with a bright new look.

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Owner Ilonka Julie Whitsed, known to everyone as Jules, has marked the milestone with new signage that's hard to miss.

Having previously worked in the health industry, Jules came to Mission Beach for a sea change and discovered a new passion in fashion retail. Her business journey began in 2014, when she took over a small, recycled clothing store on the Village Green before moving to her current premises two years later.

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Today, Jules Fashions offers affordable women's clothing, jewellery, handbags, accessories and homewares, including colourful pieces from Mexico and India.

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"I love clothes. I love colour. It's my passion," Jules said.

Her philosophy is simple: offer something different, keep prices affordable and provide good old-fashioned personal service.

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"Affordability more than anything," she said. "I have a few ladies who come in, and they're wanting consultations on what to wear, so I provide that as well."

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Jules isn't afraid to give an honest opinion, preferring customers to leave with something that genuinely suits them rather than simply making a sale.

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She also takes pride in choosing labels that complement, rather than duplicate, those stocked by other Mission Beach boutiques. It's this individuality that attracts shoppers from Cairns, Townsville and surrounding communities looking for something different.

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Among her loyal customers are grey nomads who return each year, sometimes wearing outfits purchased on previous visits. While she might not always remember their faces, Jules often recognises the garments they're wearing.

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And it's those relationships that make running the business so rewarding.

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"I like people who walk away happy with what they've got and excited and come back and say, I've had so many comments about the clothes I'm wearing."

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Visit Jules Fashions at Shop 6, The Hub Shopping Centre, Porter Promenade, Mission Beach, or phone 0477 470 449. Open from 9.30am to 3pm, six days a week, closed Tuesdays.

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U12 North Qld team with Mr Gino Paris (left) at the Cairns Carnival in the early 1980s. Photo supplied

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It's time to get the old teams back together, as former FNQ Crocs, Marlins and NQ Canecutters players join generations of young footballers from across Queensland for a special reunion celebrating 70 years of the Gino Paris Carnival.

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The anniversary celebration will be held in Townsville this Saturday 17th October, bringing together former players, coaches, managers, referees and supporters to reconnect, reminisce and celebrate one of Queensland's longest-running junior football competitions.

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Established in 1956 through the generosity of Ingham businessman Gino Paris, who donated a trophy to encourage junior representative soccer, the Under-12 carnival became a much-anticipated event on Queensland's football calendar.

For seven days, young players from across the state came together to compete, develop their skills and form friendships that often lasted long after the final whistle.

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The Cassowary Coast has a proud connection to that history, with the Johnstone River Soccer Association hosting the carnival at Silkwood in 1985 and 2005. In 2005, the NQ Canecutters took home the coveted cup, under manager Geoff Green and coach John Frost.

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Among those representing Far North Queensland in the green and gold jerseys of the FNQ Crocs were players from Mission Beach, Tully, Silkwood, Innisfail and surrounding districts.

The 2005 team included Ben Murray, James Orr, Scott Dellaway, Grayson Pedroni, Luke Brown, Matthew Moran and Dylan Bettini, under coach Danny Schmidt, assistant coach Jason Jia and manager Michael Plunkett.

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Two decades on, organisers are hoping the anniversary will bring back plenty of familiar faces, rekindle old friendships and revive memories of those junior football days.

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A special guest will be Australian football legend Les Scheinflug AM, a former Socceroos captain and national coach who dedicated much of his career to developing young footballers. Inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame, Scheinflug is widely regarded as a pioneer of Australian youth football.

The reunion will also recognise the countless volunteers, coaches and families who made the carnival possible, often travelling hundreds of kilometres and giving up a week of their time to support their teams.

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For more information, contact Carla Dal Santo on 0438 832 622 or Adriane Paris on (07) 4776 6612, or visit the Gino Paris Carnival 70 Year Anniversary Facebook page.

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WHAT: Gino Paris Carnival 70 Year Anniversary Reunion

WHERE: MA Olympic Football Club in Townsville

WHEN: Saturday 17th October

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An upcoming country and western night is set to fundraise for the future of Garradunga Hall. Photo supplied

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A night of country music, dancing, food and fundraising is set to help bring Garradunga Hall back to life, with locals invited to dust off their cowboy boots and celebrate the historic venue.

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The Save the Garradunga Hall Country and Western Night will take place on Saturday 17th October, featuring live local bands, line dancing, a food van serving up meals, a bar, soft drinks and raffle prizes.

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Organised by the Garradunga Progress Association, the event comes as a renewed committee works to secure the future of the hall, which has been a gathering place for the farming community since it officially opened in 1930.

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Over the decades, the hall has hosted dances, parties, weddings, birthday celebrations and community gatherings. Earlier this year, its future looked uncertain after years of reduced activity, prompting committee members to step up efforts to raise awareness, attract support and cover ongoing expenses.

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Those efforts have already seen association membership grow from eight to 88, alongside fundraising initiatives, generous donations and support from local businesses.

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“In an era of uncertainty, economic challenges and rush and stress, we need places to gather where time slows down while we meet for recreation, classes, new activities or good old fashioned fun,” shared a spokesperson from the Garradunga Progress Association.  

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“This is what the Garradunga Hall, with its high ceilings, corrugated iron walls, hatch windows and timber floors, still provides – a glimpse and a feel of quieter, more peaceful times past, when we were more focussed on personal connection than the internet, phones and tv.  

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“We want to preserve this treasure - this atmosphere and this venue for our young people and their children! As canefields are being replaced by bananas, galangal and taro, we want to welcome our new residents. Many Hmong and Indian families have now made this area home, and we would love the hall to become a place where they too can forge new friendships and make precious memories.”

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Entry is free for association members, $10 for adults, and free for children under 16. To RSVP or find out more, contact the Garradunga Progress Association at garradungaprogress@gmail.com or Ian on 0437 474 488.

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What: Save Garradunga Hall Fundraiser
When: October 17^th, 5:30pm-11pm
Where: Garradunga Hall

Daryl Dickson in her studio. Photo supplied

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For Cardwell wildlife artist Daryl Dickson, the endangered mahogany glider is much more than a subject for her paintings. It has shaped her life and decades of dedication to protecting North Queensland’s wildlife.

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This evening, Daryl will share her knowledge and experiences at C4’s Science in the Pub at Shanti Café in Mission Beach, introducing audiences to one of Australia’s rarest and least-known marsupials.

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Rediscovered in 1989 after being lost to science for more than a century, the mahogany glider survives in a limited area of North Queensland, where habitat loss and fragmentation threaten its future.

“It’s still a very unknown species,” Daryl said. “The more people know about it, the better chance they’ve got of making good decisions that don’t harm the landscape or the animals that rely on it.”

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Her presentation will explore the glider’s remarkable characteristics, its habitat and the conservation efforts underway to secure its survival.

Daryl’s connection with the Wet Tropics began in 1988, when a hot-air ballooning trip from Adelaide introduced her to the region.

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“I couldn’t believe the colour, and the forests, and the wildlife,” she recalled. “There was just something so magic about this place.”

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In 1993, she and husband Geoff Moffatt left their telecommunications careers behind and moved north, eventually building their own home beside Myunga Creek in the Kennedy Valley. They later discovered their property was important mahogany glider habitat, sparking decades of involvement in conservation and wildlife rehabilitation.

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Today, their Mungarru Lodge Sanctuary helps injured and orphaned gliders and possums prepare for release into the wild. A large enclosure allows recovering animals to rebuild the strength and fitness needed to survive in their natural environment. That close connection with wildlife also informs Daryl’s art.

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“What they give me in return is this close contact and the ability to observe them moving naturally and doing things that they do, which informs my art,” she said.

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For Daryl, art and conservation are inseparable, shaped by more than three decades living among the animals she paints.  

“We’re just another animal in their forest,” she said.

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Tuesday’s presentation offers an opportunity to discover the extraordinary mahogany glider through the eyes of someone who has devoted much of her life to understanding and protecting it.

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WHAT: Science in the Pub

WHEN: Tuesday 13th October, from 5.30pm

WHERE: Shanti Café, Mission Beach

BOOKINGS: 0435 166 656

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FACTS

1. Born to glide: Mahogany gliders can glide up to 60 metres between trees and rarely come to ground.

2. Family life: They breed once a year, producing one or two young cared for by both parents. Each pair defends a territory of approximately 20 hectares.

3. Rare and endangered: Found nowhere else on Earth, mahogany gliders were rediscovered in 1989 after more than a century lost to science.

Source: Fact Sheet, Mungarru Lodge Sanctuary

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Mayor Teresa Millwood uses her Waste Disposal Voucher – have you?

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This week Mayor Teresa Millwood led by example using her Waste Disposal Voucher after clearing her property in preparation for disaster season.

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Council encourages all residents to remain on high alert despite a drier start to the season.

“Cassowary Coaster’s are built different when it comes to severe weather,” shared Council.

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“A drier start to the season doesn’t mean we can afford to be complacent. Now is the time to get ready.”

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Every rate payer in the region has received a waste disposal voucher with their latest rate notice.  

This voucher can be used to dispose of a load of eligible dry household waste.  

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“It’s a great chance to clear out unwanted items around your home and yard before monsoon rains and cyclone season get underway,” said Council.

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The Get ready Queensland campaign encourages all residents to:

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• Check your insurance

• Clear your gutters

• Secure loose outdoor items

• Use your waste voucher

• Check your emergency kit

• Make a household emergency plan  

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And don’t forget to bookmark the Cassowary Coast Disaster Dashboard — your best address in a disaster.

Lion Sue Hart (President), Lion Callan Ihle (Vice President) and Lion Caroline Dyer, outside Cardwell State School with the donated Front Row Sound System. Photo supplied

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Cardwell Lions Club is continuing its support of local students, recently donating a Front Row Sound System valued at $1,875 to Cardwell State School.

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The specialised sound system will assist students with diagnosed hearing impairments, while also supporting teachers and students in general classroom situations by helping ensure instructions and discussions can be heard clearly.

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The donation is part of Cardwell Lions Club’s ongoing commitment to supporting the needs and wellbeing of the Cardwell community, particularly its younger residents.

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“One very important consideration is support for our young citizens during their important school years,” the organisation said.

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Cardwell Lions Club was formed in 1968 and is celebrating 58 years of service to the community this year.

Anyone interested in joining Cardwell Lions can contact Membership Officer Lion Callan Ihle on 0424 079 925.

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The club meets on the third Sunday of each month at the Lions Hall from 9.30am.

Senator Susan McDonald presenting the 2026 Spotlight Master Fisherman of the Year to Darcy Fazio Photo supplied: Rebecca Zaghini

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Local fishing industry achievements were celebrated during an awards evening held at Cloakey Restaurant on September 25th as part of the Spotlight on Hinchinbrook Seafood Expo.

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The evening recognised the dedication, experience and sustainability efforts of fishermen who contribute to the region’s seafood industry.

Darcy Fazio was named the 2026 Spotlight Master Fisherman of the Year, with Senator Susan McDonald presenting the award.

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Allan Bobbermen was recognised with the Lifetime of Achievement Award, presented by Deputy Mayor Mary Brown in acknowledgement of his longstanding contribution to the industry.

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A posthumous award for the achievement Lifetime of Service was presented to Walter Putzka by Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa MP, with his wife, Lisa Putzka, accepting the honour on his behalf.

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John Taifalos received the Most Sustainable Fisher award, presented by Kylie Dunstan of the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation (FRDC), recognising his commitment to sustainable fishing practices.

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Pavement rehabilitation maintenance works set to begin on Ingham–Forrest Beach Road. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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Contributed with thanks by the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR)

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Motorists travelling along Ingham–Forrest Beach Road can expect changed traffic conditions, with pavement rehabilitation maintenance works having recently commenced approximately four kilometres west of Forrest Beach.

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The Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) advises works will take place through to Saturday, 24th October, between 7am and 5pm, weather and construction conditions permitting.

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Motorists should allow extra travel time, with single-lane closures, moderate delays and reduced speed limits expected throughout the work zone. Traffic controllers will be onsite during active construction hours, while automatic traffic signals will operate outside these hours.

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Access to all properties will remain open throughout the works. Drivers may also experience noise from heavy machinery and should follow all traffic control directions and reduced speed limits.

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Variable message signs and advance warning signs will be installed on approaches to the work site to alert motorists to changed conditions.

TMR thanked motorists in advance for their patience and understanding while the rehabilitation works are completed.

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For current road conditions, check the QLDTraffic website or call 13 19 40.

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Epaderm is a versatile skincare range designed to help moisturise, soothe and protect dry and sensitive skin. Photo supplied: Hinchinbrook Community Pharmacy

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Love Your Skin With Epaderm!

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Dry, itchy or sensitive skin? Give your skin some extra love with Epaderm!

This week at Hinchinbrook Community Pharmacy, we’re shining the spotlight on Epaderm — a trusted, versatile skincare range designed to help moisturise, soothe and protect dry and sensitive skin.

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Whether it’s dry winter skin, eczema-prone skin or simply skin that needs a little extra TLC, Epaderm can be a fantastic addition to your everyday skincare routine. Its emollient formulations help moisturise the skin and provide a protective layer to help prevent moisture from escaping.

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And the best part? Epaderm is incredibly versatile! Depending on the product, it can be used as a moisturiser, cleanser or bath additive, making it an easy choice for the whole family.

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For beautifully moisturised skin, regular application is key, especially after bathing or showering. Apply while your skin is still slightly damp to help seal in that much-needed moisture.

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Pop into Hinchinbrook Community Pharmacy this week and discover why Epaderm could become a new favourite in your family’s skincare routine!

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Our friendly team is always here to help you choose the right product for your skin. Hinchinbrook Community Pharmacy — your local team for healthy, happy skin!

Book now for the FREE Women’s Wellbeing Health Clinic for a one-on-one consultation with personalised support and insights around menopause-related symptoms, bone health, Vitamin D and iron screening, digestive health and sleep, and navigating perimenopause or menopause.

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The clinic is run by a qualified registered nurse, each 20-minute appointment offers a confidential space to discuss symptoms and concerns around perimenopause, menopause, breast health, gut or sleep health, and general wellbeing. Attendees receive complimentary finger-prick screening for iron (ferritin) and vitamin D deficiencies, along with education and a demonstration on breast self-examination, giving every woman practical, tailored strategies to manage her health with confidence.

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Book now via the QR code or visit wholelife.com.au/wholelife-womens-health-clinic

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The Women’s Health Clinic may not be suitable for everyone. Some concerns may require further assessment by a medical practitioner. Speak with our pharmacists or your GP if you are unsure whether the service is right for you.

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WHAT: Free Women's Wellbeing Health Clinic
WHEN: Thursday, 5th November, 9am–1pm
WHERE:  Ingham Wholelife Pharmacy & Healthfoods, Woolworths Complex, Ingham

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Speckled Flying Fox mother and pup. Photo credit: Vivvy Hsieh

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Contributed with thanks by Terrain NRM.

Conservationists are urging Far North Queensland residents to give flying-fox mothers and their babies space as the annual birthing season gets underway.

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Endangered Spectacled Flying-foxes are beginning to give birth across Far North Queensland, with maternity roosts expected to become busier over the coming months.

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The native fruit bats give birth to just one pup each year, making every new arrival important for the recovery of the species.

Wet Tropics Wildlife Rescue Coordinator Kristy Jensen said Spectacled Flying-foxes congregate at maternity roosts during spring and summer.

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“The birthing and nursery season typically runs from September through to March, and numbers at maternity roosts can increase significantly during this time,” Ms Jensen said.

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“Many maternity roosts are in urban areas and, while having a roost nearby can be challenging for residents, this is seasonal behaviour. By Easter, most roosts will have dispersed to other locations.”

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Wildlife carer and FNQ Wildlife Rescue Bat Coordinator Cheryl Hudson said hundreds of flying-fox pups are orphaned or separated from their mothers each year.

“Flying-fox mothers carry their young constantly during the first few weeks of life, so this is a particularly vulnerable time.

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“Mothers and pups can become separated when roosts are disturbed by loud noises, severe weather or other disturbances.”

Spectacled Flying-foxes play an important role in maintaining healthy rainforests, pollinating flowering plants and dispersing seeds over large distances as they move through the landscape at night.

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The species faces significant threats including climate change, habitat loss, paralysis ticks, entanglement in barbed wire and powerlines, and human disturbance. A severe heatwave in 2018 caused mass deaths of Spectacled Flying-foxes, contributing to the species being listed as endangered.

Ms Jensen said recent monitoring had shown encouraging signs of population recovery, but significant threats remained.

“With summer approaching, every pup matters,” she said.

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“Giving mothers and their babies a safe, undisturbed place to raise their young is one simple way the community can help.”

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If you find a sick, injured or dead flying-fox, do not touch it. If it is safe to do so, cover it with a towel, box or blanket and contact FNQ Wildlife Rescue on (07) 4053 4467.

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Spectacled Flying-foxes are protected under Queensland and Australian Government legislation. Disturbing or harming flying-foxes or their roosts may result in significant penalties. For more information, see Terrain NRM’s Spectacled Flying-fox FAQs

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This project is supported by the Australian Government through funding from the Natural Heritage Trust and the Saving Native Species Programs.

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Preparatory works for the Gawara Baya Project near Mount Fox have begun as of Monday, 12th October, with road and bridge works expected to commence later this month.

The project team has advised that works will take place across the Mount Fox area from October 2026 through to mid-to-late 2027, with the schedule subject to weather, permits and site conditions.

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Initial activities will include preparing the project camp site and constructing the site entrance off Mount Fox Road, before progressing to road and bridge works along Lava Plains Mount Fox Road.

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Works will occur between 6.30am and 6.30pm, seven days a week, although hours may vary depending on conditions and the nature of the work.

Motorists travelling through the area should expect changed traffic conditions, including temporary traffic lights at the intersection of Gregory Developmental Road and Mount Fox Road. Traffic management will also be in place around work sites, and speed limits may change throughout the project.

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The project team has advised that access to private properties is not expected to be affected.

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Residents and motorists may also notice increased noise and dust during construction, as well as water trucks travelling between extraction points and work areas via Mount Fox Road and project access routes. Measures will be taken to minimise disruption and manage traffic and dust.

The project team thanked the community for its patience as work progresses to construct Gawara Baya for North Queensland.

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For more information, or to discuss specific access requirements, contact the project team on 1800 676 864, email info@gawarabaya.com or visit gawarabaya.com

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Loading up the raffle prizes for the winners back in August. Photo source: Herbert River Museum & Gallery Inc.

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The Herbert River Museum and Gallery is getting into the Melbourne Cup spirit with preparations well underway for its upcoming Melbourne Cup Luncheon.

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On Friday 21st August the Museum had the pleasure of welcoming Councillor Donna Marbelli to draw its latest raffle, helping raise funds towards the much-anticipated event.

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The luncheon will be held on Tuesday 3rd November from 11am at Macknade Bowls Club on Golf Links Road, Macknade Wilmar Estate.

Guests can look forward to a social day celebrating the race that stops the nation, with catering provided by Peira and Marian. Dietary requirements must be advised when making a booking.

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The Melbourne Cup Luncheon is an important fundraiser for the Herbert River Museum, helping support the organisation and its ongoing work preserving and sharing the district’s history.

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Whether you are a racing enthusiast or simply looking for a fun day out with friends, the luncheon promises to be a great opportunity to enjoy good company while supporting a local community organisation.

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For bookings and enquiries, contact Evlyn on 0427 128 091 or Janet on 0428 750 072.

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WHAT: Herbert River Museum/Gallery Melbourne Cup Luncheon
WHEN: Tuesday 3rd November from 11am
WHERE: Macknade Bowls Club, Golf Links Road, Macknade Wilmar Estate

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Meet Blair, a lovely feline companion whose silky black fur is as soft as velvet. With her striking appearance and gentle nature, Blair is sure to capture your heart and become an inseparable part of your life. Though she came from a large group of felines, she has blossomed in our care and is now ready to embark on her new journey of love and companionship.

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Blair may have had a less-than-ideal start to life, but her resilience and adaptability have helped her flourish into the affectionate, charming cat she is today. After receiving all her necessary care and attention, she is prepared to bring joy and warmth to a loving home. An adopter who appreciates her soft, gentle demeanour and is ready to provide endless love will find an exceptional companion in Blair.  

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This elegant cat is ready to share her heart with a new family. Whether curled up on a cozy windowsill or softly purring in your lap, Blair will undoubtedly enhance your life. She is an indoors only cat.

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Included in adoption fee of $225 DESEXED, MICRO-CHIPPED, up to date VACCINATIONS, FLEA/TICK/INTESTINAL WORM treated. Enquire today at angelpawsinc.com.au/pets-for-adoption/cats/

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Sex: Female
Breed: Domestic Short Hair
Colour: Black
DOB: 01/03/2025
Cat Friendly: Yes
Dog Friendly: Unsure
Kid Friendly: Yes

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Construction works on Venables Crossing Road at Lannercost are now expected to be completed by Friday 30th October, weather permitting.

Hinchinbrook Shire Council has advised the project has experienced a slight delay due to contractor availability and vandalism at the construction site.

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The upgrade involves widening the road to provide a safer pull-over area beside the Give Way sign near the bridge on the eastern approach to the crossing, alongside drainage improvements.

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Traffic control will remain in place during construction, with traffic reduced to a single lane. Motorists are urged to follow all signage and directions from traffic controllers when travelling through the work area.

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Council thanked residents and road users for their patience and cooperation while the works are completed.

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The project is jointly funded by the Queensland Government’s Transport Infrastructure Development Scheme (TIDS) and Hinchinbrook Shire Council.

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For further information, contact Council by emailing council@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au or calling (07) 4776 4600.

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Tilda Pollock, 12 years old

“I like to dance, play netball, cook and be with my friends and family. My goals are to finish grade 12 and go to university, to try for rep netball and to become rich!”

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Imogen Accornero, 11 years old

“I like athletics, running, dancing and playing outside. I also like to read and help grandma in the shop. I would like a good paying job, to travel around the world and eat pasta in Italy, and see the Eiffel Tower.”

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Lindsy Erkkila, 11 years old

“I like gymnastics, walking on the beach, horse riding and face painting. My goals are to become a vet, be a good person in life, and to do well at school.”

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Quinn Demores, 12 years old

“I enjoy dancing and playing netball. I like to face paint and I like to go camping and going to the beach. When I grow up, I want to be a life stock vet. I want to travel to Paris, New Zealand, Japan and Europe.”

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Isla Neitzt, 11 years old

“I enjoy swimming, running, dancing, reading, going to the beach, spending time with my pets, learning to ride my horse and spending time with family and friends. My goal is to become a vet because I love animals. I want to be happy, have a job I love, visit new places and experience new things, and live close to my family so I can always spend time with them.”

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Kadence Torris, 12 years old

“I like gymnastics, soccer, swimming, Aquathlons, cross country, reading, camping and water skiing. I love to be outside and spending time with my friends. My work goals are to be a sports physio or an interior designer. But for sports, I would like to go to State for aquathlon, break a school swimming record, and run a marathon when I’m older.”

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Zara Drew, 11 years old

“I love playing rugby, and I love my dad. I enjoy camping, fishing and time with friends. I love to eat amazing food and enjoy a good sleep. I want to be a good sister, a teacher, and to be a good friend.”

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Tilly Poppi, 11 years old

“My interests are sports! Anything sports, like track and field, and futsal. I enjoy fishing and camping with friends. I’m a lover of the beach and being creative. When I grow up, I want to become an Olympian or entrepreneur.”

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Edith Turner, 11 years old

“I love being active and enjoy swimming, soccer, dancing, basketball, camping, and painting. My life goals are to become a teacher when I grow up, to do well in school, and to have two children.”

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Lucy Egan, 10 years old

“I love to play rugby, playing with my friends. I enjoy going to school (only at lunch time) and good food, theatre and dance. I want to become a professional and amazing rugby footy star, be the best version of myself and have lots of friends.”

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The Reef Guardian Council, a vital initiative involving the Hinchinbrook Shire Council, plays a crucial role in safeguarding our beautiful marine ecosystems.

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As one of two Local Government councillors representing our council on this committee, I’mexcited to share the benefits of this partnership and its positive impact on our community. The Reef Guardian program aims to protect and enhance the Great Barrier Reef by fostering a sense of stewardship among local communities, schools, and organisations.

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By participating in this initiative, we are not only working to preserve our precious marine environment but also engaging our community in meaningful conservation efforts. One of the key benefits of being a Reef Guardian is the access to educational resources and programs for schools. These initiatives inspire our young people to understand the importance of the reef and develop a lifelong commitment to its protection. Workshops, field trips, and hands-on activities provide students with valuable knowledge about marine life, ecosystems, and sustainable practices.

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Moreover, the Reef Guardian Council fosters collaboration between various stakeholders, including local businesses, environmental groups, and community members.

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This unity strengthens our collective efforts to promote sustainability and conservation, creating a vibrant, environmentally conscious community. In conclusion, the Hinchinbrook Shire Council's involvement in the Reef Guardian Council not only supports the protection of our marine treasures but also enriches our community's educational landscape.

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Together, we can ensure that future generations appreciate and care for the Great Barrier Reef, forging a sustainable path for our shared environment.

The festive season is fast approaching, and the Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Tourism Inc is excited to announce the return of its much-loved Shop & Win Christmas Campaign, officially launching Monday 19th October 2026.

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With the rising cost of living continuing to place pressure on households and businesses alike, this year's campaign carries an important message — supporting local has never been more important.

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The annual Shop & Win initiative encourages residents to keep their Christmas spending close to home, supporting the local businesses that contribute so much to the strength and vibrancy of the Hinchinbrook community.

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From our retailers and hospitality venues to service providers and family-owned businesses, every local purchase makes a difference. Shopping locally not only supports the business behind the counter but also helps sustain local employment, encourages investment and keeps money circulating within our regional economy.

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Importantly, Shop & Win collection boxes will continue to be available to any local business wishing to participate, ensuring the wider business community can remain involved in encouraging local spending throughout the festive season.  Chamber encourages any members of the business community who would like to be involved in this year’s campaign, either to host collection boxes or to contribute to the prize choices, please do not hesitate to reach out to Chamber to register your interest.

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For local businesses, the campaign provides an opportunity to attract customers, encourage Christmas shopping and be part of a collective effort to strengthen the local economy.

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For shoppers, it's a timely reminder that choosing local is about more than simply making a purchase. It's about supporting the businesses that employ our neighbours, sponsor our sporting clubs, contribute to community events and help make Hinchinbrook a wonderful place to live, work and visit.

As we approach another Christmas season, the Chamber encourages residents to consider the many fantastic businesses right on their doorstep before looking further afield.

The 2026 Shop & Win Christmas Campaign commences Monday 19th October.

This Christmas, let's make every local purchase count — because when we support local businesses, the whole community benefits.

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Josie with some of her loving family. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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By Victoria Velton

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Josie Pisano celebrated her 100th birthday on Thursday 8th October surrounded by family, friends and the community of the Palms nursing home.

Born on October 8th 1926, in Piedmonte Etneo, Sicily, in the shadow of Mount Etna, Josie travelled to Australia at just three years old with her mother and baby sister to join her father in the cane fields of Innisfail.

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She grew up in North Queensland, where she was educated and began her working life, studying dressmaking during the war years. After the war, she married Mick Pisano, a returned soldier who had also emigrated to Australia from Italy.

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In 1949, the couple relocated to Ingham through the Returned Soldiers’ Settlement Scheme, establishing a farm at Braemeadows that remains in the family today, now farmed by a third-generation descendant.

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Together, Josie and Mick raised four children, and Josie went on to become the family matriarch as grandmother to nine and great-grandmother to 14.

Her youngest son, Frank, described his mother as “a woman of great courage, incredible resilience” and a woman blessed with a “massive amount of love”.

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Liking her wisdom to that of Solomon, Frank shared one lesson that had stayed with him.

“One of the things that my mum taught me was to always believe the best in people,” he said.

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“She said, if they turn out that they weren't good, that's their problem. But she said that's much better than thinking the worst of someone and then finding out that you're wrong.”

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A century on, that generous and wise spirit remains at the heart of the Pisano family.

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Rob Magarey and William Moran outside the former Tully Visitor Information Centre, which they hope will become the new home of the Wet Tropics Agricultural Heritage Centre. Photo credit: Helen Cook

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A determined group of Tully locals is working to bring an important piece of Far North Queensland’s agricultural history home, with plans for a new Wet Tropics Agricultural Heritage Centre right on the Bruce Highway at the turn-off to town.

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The community-led project would bring the former Tully Visitor Information Centre – originally the Tully Sugar Recreation Hall – back to life, creating a home for significant parts of the former Australian Sugar Heritage Centre collection while telling the broader story of the sugar, banana, timber and cattle industries.

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“This is about our community’s heritage,” said committee member William Moran, whose family has farmed in the area for more than 100 years. “We’re all reliant on agriculture.”

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The idea has been gathering momentum for more than a year, prompted by the closure of the Australian Sugar Heritage Centre at Mourilyan following flooding associated with Cyclone Jasper in December 2023. Its collection includes locomotives, tractors, harvesters, photographs, documents and other artefacts. With the property sold and the collection needing a new home, Tully locals saw an opportunity.

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Barry Barnes, who had been involved with the Mourilyan facility, was among those keen to find a new home for the Sugar Heritage Centre. Tully Sugar was an early supporter, offering land near the mill where the group initially considered building a large shed to house the collection. Then the former Visitor Information Centre became available.

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“We thought as a committee, what a golden opportunity,” William said. “It’s on the highway and there is space around it to build additional sheds.”

Committee chair Rob Magarey said the group has spent more than 12 months developing the proposal.

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“We’ve carefully considered what would make a really good heritage centre,” he said. “We’ve been negotiating with the Sugar Industry Museum Committee, finding out what they would require, and we’ve been establishing ourselves as a committee that would be worthy of running a museum.”

The core committee includes Rob, William, Barry Barnes and Andrew Apap, along with Emma Hennel from Tully Sugar and Patrick Bluett, Executive Officer of Cassowary Coast Tourism.

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“Once we get established, we’ll go out and ask for more people to come on board,” William said.

While the Mourilyan collection provides the starting point, the vision for the Heritage Centre is much broader.  

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“We want to bring our local industries together in a museum right here on the highway,” William said.

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Reopening the Visitor Information Centre is another important part of the plan, with former volunteers already indicating they would be willing to return. The centre could provide local information and bookings, encourage travellers to explore more of the Cassowary Coast and once again provide a booking point for Tully Sugar mill tours.

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“Ours is the only sugar mill in Australia that operates mill tours,” Rob said. “With the Visitor Information Centre now closed people probably drive on by because they think there’s no place to book.”

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William explained how the project would be developed in stages, beginning with the existing building.

“Phase two would be building another shed to house all this other gear,” William said. “Then, with the banana industry coming on board, we could create a dedicated space for a collection telling that industry’s story.”

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The committee is seeking commercial sponsors and local industry support, with the aim of having a paid person on site supported by volunteers.

“That way you’ve got someone here full-time, paid every day, and then your volunteers helping out,” William said. “That’s our plan.”

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The immediate hurdle in progressing that plan is securing the Visitor Information building and site, with Cassowary Coast Regional Council expected to consider the proposed lease at its October 29 meeting.

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If it gets the green light, William says the group is ready to move.

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“We could open the doors in early November,” he said.

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For now, the committee is asking the community to help get the proposal over the line by making its support known ahead of the Council meeting.

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“Talk to your local councillors,” William said, “and let them know how great this Heritage Centre will be, not just for Tully but for the whole of the Cassowary Coast.”  

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The 2026 Tropical Plant Expo. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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By Victoria Velton

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Plant lovers flocked to Cardwell for the annual Tropical Plant Expo on Saturday, 3rd October, with the event showcasing everything from orchids and bromeliads to cacti, ferns and unusual tropical plants rarely seen.

Held by the local SES and Coast Guard, the expo brought together growers and sellers from across North Queensland, with a steady stream of visitors filling up trollys and baskets as they browsed the stalls and chatted with growers throughout the day.

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The event has a long history in Cardwell, first beginning in 2016, before growing to the wide range of tropical plants and sellers seen today.

Organiser Louis has been involved since the beginning and has now taken over running the event, following the retirement of original organisers Tina and her late husband Anthony.

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The expo was forced to take a two-year break during COVID-19, making this year’s event its ninth show.

Louis said he hoped to continue building the expo in coming years, with plans to welcome more garden-related stalls alongside the usual growers stalls, but keeping the focus firmly on plants.

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The event also highlighted the camaraderie among growers, with sellers helping each other when circumstances made it difficult for someone to attend.

“You help each other out. That’s the way I look at it,” Louis said.

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With sellers travelling from across the region, the expo has also become an opportunity for growers to reach new markets, with some varieties commanding significantly higher prices in southern cities.

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From collectors searching for unusual specimens to families simply looking for something new for the garden, there was something for every level of plant enthusiast.

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As Louis looks towards next year’s expo, the aim is to keep growing the event while maintaining its relaxed, gardening-focused atmosphere.

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“It’s calm and it’s quiet. Everyone’s selling, so everyone’s doing well,” he said.

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See more photos here: www.hinchinbrooklife.com/social-pics/a-garden-of-possibilities-in-cardwell-tropical-plant-expo-returns

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Talented local artist Lavinia has added more colourful history to the walls of Tully, transforming an iconic piece of local business life into a mural celebrating the Iggulden family.

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Sharing a sneak peek on her popular Facebook page, Lavinia thanked the Iggulden family for allowing her to honour their story through her artwork.

“Before I show you the whole wall, I wanted to share the people behind it first,” she shared.

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“A very big thank you to Robyn, Colin and the whole Iggulden family for trusting me with something so close to their hearts.

“It’s been so very special bringing a little piece of their family history to life.”

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Lavinia also thanked Councillor Trudy Tschui for coming along to witness the completed mural and share in the special moment.

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The mural was partially funded through the Cassowary Coast Shopfront Improvement Program.

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Former Australian Army soldier Steven Courtis has taken on a new role with Cassowary Coast LIFE.

Steve lives at Cordelia, near Ingham, where he is a full-time carer for his wife, and says the weekly distribution run is a welcome chance to get out and about.

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“It’s a fantastic opportunity to get amongst the community,” he said.

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Look out for Steve making the Tuesday morning rounds in Cardwell, Tully and Mission Beach – with plenty of local news on board.

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Trevor Rayner celebrates his milestone birthday with some of the young gymnasts at Tully Gym and Tramp Club

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Turning 90 is an achievement. Still coaching gymnastics at 90 makes Trevor Rayner something of a legend.

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The much-loved coach, mentor and friend celebrated his milestone birthday on 1^st October, surrounded by past and present coaches, gymnasts and members whose lives he has touched through decades of involvement in the sport.

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Trevor remains involved with Tully Gym and Tramp Club and played an important role in establishing gymnastics clubs in Tully, Ingham, Weipa and Mission Beach, helping create opportunities for generations of children to learn, grow in confidence and discover a love of gymnastics.

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His contribution has earned him Life Membership of Gymnastics Queensland, but perhaps the best measure of his impact came in birthday messages from across Australia.

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“You have always been the most amazing coach, friend and mentor,” former gymnast Sal wrote. “You’ll always be the only one I ever call coach.”

Others simply described him as a “legend” and a “beautiful kind-hearted person”.

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Trevor has previously described his continuing involvement in gymnastics as his “purposeful physiotherapy” – keeping himself moving while doing something he loves.

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After decades spent giving his time, knowledge and encouragement to others, Trevor’s 90th provided an opportunity for the gymnastics community, to give something back – a heartfelt thank you to a coach who continues to inspire the next generation.

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Photo supplied

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Rain couldn’t keep Cassowary Coast anglers away, with hundreds braving the wet to cast a line and help tackle one of the region’s biggest environmental pests.  

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The 2026 Tilapia Tournament at Warrina Lakes attracted 444 participants across three days, who collectively hauled in an impressive 2,163 invasive tilapia.  

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With families, visitors and fishing enthusiasts all getting involved, the annual event proved that doing your bit for local waterways can come with plenty of fun, friendly competition and even a few bragging rights.

Tilapia Tournament Reels In A Big Result – And Plenty Of Smiles

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Rain didn’t dampen the enthusiasm at Warrina Lakes, with hundreds of anglers casting a line for a good cause during Cassowary Coast Regional Council’s 2026 Tilapia Tournament.

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Across three days, 444 participants removed an impressive 2,163 tilapia, with local families and visitors joining in the annual event.

Tilapia are highly invasive pest fish that reproduce rapidly, compete with native species for food and habitat and can damage aquatic ecosystems, making their removal important to the health of local waterways.

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Councillor Jeff Baines described the weekend as a fantastic community effort.

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“It’s the world’s greatest Tilapia Tournament,” Cr Baines said. “It was an outstanding event and a great effort from everyone involved to help us reduce this noxious fish in our waterways and improve the health of our creeks and rivers.”

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With 2,163 fewer tilapia in Warrina Lakes, this year’s tournament delivered a result worth celebrating, while generous sponsor prizes rewarded anglers for catches including the most fish and largest tilapia.

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Photos supplied: Cassowary Coast Regional Council

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Senator Susan McDonald and seafood industry heads at the Slipway in Lucinda, as part of the Spotlight on Hinchinbrook, Seafood Industry Expo. Photo supplied: Office of Senator Susan McDonald

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The planned phase-out of gillnet fishing scheduled for North Queensland waters has come under renewed scrutiny as the Queensland Seafood Industry Association (QSIA) and North Queensland Federal MPs call for delay.

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Queensland’s existing policy is to phase out gillnet fishing in the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area by June 30th 2027, with government funding supporting industry transition and trials of alternative fishing gear.

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Townsville-based Senator Susan McDonald and Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox have written to Queensland Ministers Tony Perrett and Andrew Powell seeking a three-year extension, arguing the $9 million Fish-LIGHT research program into alternative fishing methods will not conclude until 2030.

Senator McDonald said the research should be completed before the ban comes into place.

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“We are asking the Queensland Government to put the science first and seek an extension from the Commonwealth until Fish-LIGHT has completed its work,” she said.

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Mr Willcox said the impacts would extend beyond the commercial fisheries themselves.

“This is about Australian jobs, Australian food production and sovereign capability,” Mr Willcox said.

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“Commercial fishing supports processors, wholesalers, transport operators, chandlers, marine mechanics, retailers, restaurants and other small businesses throughout regional Queensland.”

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QSIA CEO David Bobbermen welcomed the federal intervention, saying the association had already approached the Queensland Ministers.

“Their public intercession on behalf of the family fishers involved in catching barramundi in North Queensland came as a surprise to us but is very welcome,” Mr Bobbermen said.

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A Queensland Department of Primary Industries working group has also recorded industry calls for the NX fishery to be extended until Fish-LIGHT research concludes, while Fisheries Queensland has reiterated the Government’s position that the phase-out will proceed on June 30th.

The issue was among the fishing industry concerns being raised around the Spotlight on Hinchinbrook Seafood Industry Expo last month.

The Mount Fox roadworks are set to start progress. Photo sourced: Hinchinbrook Shire Council

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Hinchinbrook Shire Council has advised that contractor mobilisation for the Mount Fox Road reinstatement project will commence from Tuesday, 6th October 2026.

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Equipment, materials and resources will be moved to site during mobilisation, with appropriate traffic management in place. The road will remain open during this period.

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Physical works are expected to begin on Monday, 12th October 2026. Once works commence, Mount Fox Road will be closed from 8am to 3pm, Monday to Friday, weather permitting, to allow contractors to safely undertake disaster recovery works.

Outside these closure periods, the road will reopen under traffic control. It will remain open under traffic control after 3pm on weekdays, on Saturdays, and at all other times, including Sundays and public holidays.

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Motorists travelling through the work zone should expect delays of up to 30 minutes, follow traffic signage and speed limits, and allow extra travel time.

The works will include resilience-building, remediation and slope stabilisation activities aimed at improving road safety and the long-term reliability of the transport corridor.

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Council is continuing to work with the Warrgamay Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation on the project.

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The works are being delivered under the joint Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) in association with Hinchinbrook Shire Council.

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For more information, visit the Council's Mount Fox Road and Wallaman Falls Road Works project page or contact Council's Customer Service Centre on (07) 4776 4600.

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Bees Sting donuts, delicious in every bite. Photo source: Mick’s Bread Kitchen

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There’s always something new coming out of the oven at Mick’s Bread Kitchen, and this past September has delivered plenty for both sweet treat seekers and savoury connoisseurs.

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Sweet tooths have had plenty to choose from, with newly returned and much-loved Bee Sting Donuts flying off the shelves, alongside freshly made Mulberry Tarts filled with silky Crème Pâtissière and topped with fresh mulberry compote, all encased in buttery shortcrust pastry.

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The dessert cabinet has also been filled with some familiar favourites, including the Pistachio and Vanilla Bean Basque Cheesecakes, while the Napoleon Cake has made another appearance. Coffee and Walnut Sponge Roll, French Danishes, Cannoli and Cinnamon Scrolls have also been making their way onto the shelves.

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And if you’re after something savoury, Mick’s has been on a roll there too, introducing two new sausage roll flavours. The Maple Bacon Sausage Roll brings together smoky, sweet maple and bacon, while the new Pork, Fennel and Apple Sausage Roll combines juicy pork with fragrant fennel and sweet apple, all wrapped in golden, flaky pastry.

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The team at Mick's say they’re always experimenting with what’s fresh and new, so there’s always a reason to pop in and see what has just come fresh out of the oven.  

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Whether you’re a gourmand looking for something new to try, or simply someone who likes to enjoy a coffee with a classic go-to, pop into Mick’s Bread Kitchen - you just discover a new favourite.

The alternate route shown, due to the lane closure. Image supplied: TMR

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The Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) is continuing safety upgrades at the Bruce Highway and Lannercost Street intersection in Ingham as part of the Bruce Highway Safety Package.

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A temporary closure of the northbound lanes will occur from 6am to 6pm on Friday, 9th October 2026. Alternative routes will be in place, with motorists asked to follow detour signage and directions from traffic controllers.

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The current works program will continue from 6am to 6pm until Friday, 16th October, with works subject to weather conditions, contractor availability and construction progress.

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The northbound left-turn slip lane from the Bruce Highway, known locally as Townsville Road, to Lannercost Street will remain closed after the northbound through lane reopens.

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Motorists should expect speed restrictions and follow all traffic controls. Access to properties and businesses will be maintained throughout the works.

Works may be completed sooner than expected. Wet weather or unforeseen circumstances may result in activities being rescheduled to the next available shift.

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TMR thanked road users for their patience and understanding while the safety upgrades are completed.

Contributed with thanks by the Department of Transport & Main Roads

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Last week, I had the pleasure of meeting with NBN Co’s Chairman of the Board, Kevin Russell, and Director, Jules Scarlett, who were visiting Ingham to inspect progress on Fibre to the Premises works.

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We spoke about the trauma experienced by residents during the 2025 floods, particularly the inability of residents to communicate or receive information via the internet once systems shut down due to the loss of mains power, and the importance of resilient and reliable communications, particularly in the lead-up to and following the many natural disasters our region faces.

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I was pleased to hear that upgrades have been occurring to the main transmission towers located throughout our district, including improved battery backup installations and remote-start generator capability to better cater for losses of mains power into the future. This work enhances and complements the strategic arrangements NBN has put in place with Council for the pre-deployment of smaller generation equipment and refuelling arrangements for the smaller towers located in various areas throughout the district, such as Forrest Beach and Taylors Beach.

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These matters were identified and determined as critical during Council’s meetings with NBN immediately following last year’s event, and we are very pleased that NBN has listened to and acted on our district’s concerns.

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As many would have noticed, NBN technicians have been busy throughout Ingham, installing fibre in many streets, homes and businesses as part of the Fibre to the Premises program. This program aims to eliminate the need for communication nodes in streets that have previously been susceptible to failure due to floodwater infiltration, making the new full-fibre connection faster and more reliable.

I urge residents and businesses not to wait until a cyclone or flood is on the horizon. Check your address now and, if eligible, speak with your preferred phone or internet provider about ordering an upgrade to full fibre. NBN technicians will complete all installation works at no cost to you outside your premises and also inside, provided your internal systems are within 12 metres of the external connection box.

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We know from experience that reliable connectivity is essential before, during and after severe weather. It helps you receive emergency warnings, access important information and services, check on family and friends, and keep local businesses operating.

Preparing early gives you the best chance to stay informed and connected when conditions deteriorate. A fibre upgrade is one practical step eligible residents can take now to strengthen their digital readiness ahead of the wet season.

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To check whether your address is eligible, visit www.nbnco.com.au/checkregional.

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Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa, Mayor of Townsville Nick Dametto, Premier David Crisafulli, Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie, and Cassowary Coast Mayor Teresa Millwood presenting the plan for Port Hinchinbrook back in November 2025. Photo credit. Victoria Velton

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Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa has welcomed further progress on the Port Hinchinbrook Revitalisation Project, sharing the latest monthly update with the community.

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“It’s great to share another monthly update on Port Hinchinbrook and see the next steps taking shape towards rebuilding this precinct back into the ‘jewel in the crown’ of North Queensland tourism,” Mr Chiesa said.

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“Sharing this progress with our community and the wider region is a real highlight of the month. I’ve been working hard to deliver, and each step forward helps build confidence among local businesses, tourism operators and Cardwell residents.”

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Economic Development Queensland (EDQ) continues with planning, procurement, and site preparation activities to support the next stage of works at the marina.

Tenders for a dredging contractor closed on 4 September 2026, with evaluations now underway. All bids have been assessed, and the team expects to identify a preferred contractor soon.

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Site preparation on Lot 170 is also progressing, with clearing underway around two spoil ponds and drainage channels. This work will support the commencement of early works once the dredging contractor is appointed.

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EDQ continues to work with International Coastal Management, in partnership with RPS and the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation, to progress environmental approvals following submission of the Environmental Authority application in August.

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QBuild has also been engaged to refurbish the existing sales office at Port Hinchinbrook Marina, providing a dedicated site office for EDQ and the appointed dredging contractor during delivery.

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“During the by-election, the Crisafulli Government committed to fixing Port Hinchinbrook, and these are encouraging steps forward. More work remains, and I look forward to keeping you updated as the project progresses as we head into the end of the year.”

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Contributed with thanks by Wayde Chiesa MP Member for Hinchinbrook

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Nonna Pia with her daughters and granddaughter Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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By Victoria Velton

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Five generations of family came together at Lee's hotel in Ingham on Sunday to celebrate a very special milestone, the 90th birthday of much-loved matriarch, Nonna Pia

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Her extended family travelled from far and wide gathering to celebrate their Nonna Pia's life, and the many memories shared across the generations.

“I can’t believe it,” Nonna Pia said when asked what it meant to see so many of her family together.

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“I can’t believe that so many have come. There are a few here who have come from Italy and from France. Truly, it’s truly wonderful.”

For her daughters, seeing five generations together was a particularly meaningful moment.

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“She’s the matriarch of all of them,” they said.

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Nonna Pia came to Australia from Italy in 1955 at the age of 17, leaving her parents behind and beginning a new life in Australia. She initially settled in Blackrock with her family. Her eldest daughter Rosa was two years old when they arrived, while her other five children were born in Australia.

Her husband, Batista, worked at Victoria Mill on the railways, while Pia worked at the cane barracks cooking for workers and raising her family. She later worked in babysitting, ironing and cleaning, but family remained at the heart of her life.

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Her daughters name her as the “fun grandma”, always ready for a game, a laugh or an adventure with her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Family meals were an important part of their childhood, including days spent making ravioli together.

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“There used to be that production line,” the family laughed, remembering flour spread throughout the house as everyone worked together.

Nonna Pia was also known for her gnocchi, polenta, beautifully painted nails, love of Italian music and her collection of colourful geraniums.

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After the death of her husband, Pia became increasingly involved with the Italian community and seniors groups in Ingham, travelling extensively with friends.

She visited Canada, New Zealand, Tasmania, Western Australia, Papua New Guinea, Norfolk Island and France, where she was able to reconnect with family.

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In her 70s, she also returned to study, attending the local Ingham TAFE with friends to improve her English.

Fondly called the 'Queen of Geraniums' for her masterful skill in horticulture, the family has also worked to preserve that most-loved tradition by propagating her geraniums and sharing them among the grandchildren.

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“We take the geraniums, strike some new ones and give them to the grandchildren, so they’ve got a little piece of her,” her daughters said fondly.

Now living in a nursing home, Pia’s family said her circumstances may have changed, but her personality has not.

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“She’s very spirited, very loving,” they said, “90 years old and young at heart is really who she still is.”

At the celebration, Pia’s son John raised a toast to his mother, recognising those who had travelled from near and far to be there.

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“Friends, for a moment in celebration, people that have travelled from far, especially Serge and Liliane from Grenoble, France,” John said before inviting everyone to raise their glasses.

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“In all that, we’re just here. We’ll toast to Mum, Nonna, Pia. Everybody here, raise your glass.”

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For Nonna Pia, having five generations of her family gathered around her now at 90, her family say that while her body may not let her do everything she once could, her spirit remains as strong as ever.  

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Sam on the grounds of Parliament. Photo supplied

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From a chemistry classroom in Ingham to the floor of Queensland Parliament, Samantha “Sam” Musumeci has taken the Hinchinbrook community’s voice to Youth Parliament.  

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The Ingham State High School student spent six months working alongside young people from across Queensland before joining 92 other Youth Members for a week of debate at Parliament House.  

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From writing and passing a Youth Bill to hearing powerful personal stories from fellow regional young people, Sam says the experience has given her lifelong friendships, confidence and a deeper understanding of how young Queenslanders can create change.

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Ingham Student Takes Hinchinbrook Voice To Queensland Youth Parliament

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By Victoria Velton

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Ingham State High School student Samantha (Sam) Musumeci has taken the voice of Hinchinbrook to Queensland Parliament, representing the electorate as part of the 31st YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament.

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The six-month program culminated in a Residential Sitting Week at Parliament House in Brisbane from 27th September to 3rd October, where 93 young Queenslanders representing every state electorate debated eight Youth Bills.

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“I joined Youth Parliament because I wanted a way to represent my community and to give a voice from Hinchinbrook in Parliament,” Sam said.

“I saw the applications come out and decided to put my name down as the opportunity came at a perfect time for me.”

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Finding out she had been selected was a moment Sam said she would not forget.

“When I found out I had been accepted into Youth Parliament it was such an amazing experience,” she said.

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“I received the email that I had been accepted while sitting in a chemistry class on a Friday afternoon.”

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Far more than a week spent inside Parliament House, the experience spanned six months, Sam attended meetings and worked alongside young people from across Queensland to develop a Youth Bill.

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“For six months before attending Residential Sitting Week in Brisbane I was involved in attending many meetings and writing a bill that was passed in Parliament,” she said.

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“I worked alongside a committee of other youth across Queensland to write a bill. These people became some amazing lifelong friends.”

Arriving at Parliament House brought the significance of the opportunity into focus.

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“Stepping off the bus and being greeted by Parliament House is such a unique experience, as not many people will ever get to experience it in their life,” Sam said.

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“Being able to sit in the chamber and speak about personal experiences and on our own bill is an incredible experience.”

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“Sitting in the chamber surrounded by other youth members who have so much passion for the program is so amazing to experience, as everyone is there to share their unique voice,” she said.

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“Everyone is so open to share personal experience with other youth members or share stories from their town.”

“There were many moving speeches that moved a lot of people to tears.”

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Of the eight Youth Bills debated, Sam was particularly interested in the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples bill, which proposes greater education about Aboriginal stories, culture, dances and songs, including a mandated day on Country.

“The bill that I found most interesting was the ATSIP bill,” Sam said.

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“It is aiming to introduce a new class to school curriculum to educate students on Aboriginal stories and learn dances and songs, with one mandated day out on Country.”

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For a student from regional Queensland, Sam's Youth Parliament experience has offered her a glimpse inside the state's political system. It has given her the opportunity to carry her community's perspective into the room and, in her own words, “give a voice from Hinchinbrook in Parliament”.

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Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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By Victoria Velton

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Welcome to the Cutting The Cane, a column where we have a chat with those supporting the backbone of the local economy: the farmers behind the sugar. This week John Board, grower and recent recipient of the Nuffield Australia Scholarship answered our questions about the 2026 season.

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What stage is your paddock at now?
Right now I have 12.5% of my mature cane still left to supply to the mill for this year, with the remainder of the farm in different growth stages ranging from plant cane being planted in early May, to ratooning cane that has been cut on various different dates from the 9th June until now.

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What are you hoping to learn or explore through your Nuffield Australia Scholarship?

Predominantly I want to Learn how other countries have diversified away from making crystal sugar alone, while keeping it profitable for both the millers and farmers. I'm not so much going to be focused on looking at the technology of making other products, we know that already exists, e.g. Ethanol, Electricity. My focus will be more around the relationships between Farmers, Millers, Government, Fuel companies and the General Public.  

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I think currently that's what is not working in Australia. We are all sitting in the same boat, but unfortunately not everybody is rowing in the same direction. If I can research what works well for other countries, and be able to apply that here, maybe we are in with a chance of diversifying our income streams, because currently relying solely on crystal sugar is not making business sense.  

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If we keep doing what we've always done, we'll keep getting what we've always got.

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How do you think the ideas and experiences you gain through the Nuffield Scholarship could benefit the local cane industry?

After spending a week in Darwin surrounded by other Nuffield scholars and Agri experts, I can say a real take home message for me was how many parallels there are between different commodities and sectors. Often we get so caught up with tunnel vision looking inwards at our own industry that we forget to zoom out and have a look at the big picture.  

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A Lot of people said some of the biggest things they learnt and have taken back to their industries after their scholarship is actually not what they intentionally set out to find. The biggest thing for me is to find what works well and try to replicate that back here. Not try to reinvent the wheel, just look at why other wheels run smoother than what ours currently does.

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What are the major issues affecting crop growth in your area, and how are you managing them?

Yield decline is one of our biggest issues facing us at the moment and nobody can really point exactly to one particular reason. For me personally, soil health is a big focus of mine. We've been intensively farming in the Herbert Valley for well over 100 years and I think we've taken for granted that we've been taking a lot out of the soil, and not putting much back in.  

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Machinery is getting bigger and more expensive, and the crops are getting smaller and less profitable, it's not a good situation. Sure, rain and sun at the right time is essential to growing a good crop, but you can't control that. As growers we need to take a bit of responsibility for the things we can control.

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Once this year’s crop is in, what will you be thinking about next?

There's always a fair bit of thinking going on in this big old head of mine, currently I'm doing a pretty significant earthmoving job on 1 paddock and fixing up some drainage and silt traps that were damaged in the 2025 floods.  

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I'm starting to think about which fallow crops I'll be putting in on which paddocks. I normally do a few different fallow crops including Soybeans, Sunn Hemp, Cowpea, Lab Lab and Forage Sorghum. Just sorting out which ones will be suited to which soil types and which ones can handle going underwater for a period of time if the wet season chooses that for us this year. Like many others, it will pretty much be earthmoving, fertilising, spraying and planting cover crops until the weather forces us to stop.

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Optimus is a big-hearted boy with a big personality to match! He’s doing so well in his foster home and is proving to be a friendly, fun-loving dog who enjoys getting out and about.

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One of his favourite things is interacting and playing with bigger dogs. He would be best suited to a home with another larger, confident dog or as an only dog.  

Optimus also loves adventures! He’s enjoying trips to the Strand, cafes, car rides, and exploring new places. He’s the kind of dog who would love a family that wants to include him in their adventures and give him plenty of opportunities to experience the world.

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He doesn’t always realise just how big he is though so he would be best suited to a home with older children or adults only. If you’re looking for a big, affectionate, playful boy who loves dogs, car rides and adventures, Optimus could be your perfect match.

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Included in adoption fee of $530 DESEXED, MICRO-CHIPPED, up to date VACCINATIONS, FLEA/TICK/INTESTINAL WORM treated and on PROHEART. Enquire today at: angelpawsinc.com.au/pets-for-adoption/dogs/

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Sex: Male  

Breed: Staffy X  

DOB: 29/12/2024

Colour: Brindle

Kid friendly: Older kids

Cat Friendly: Yes

Other dogs: Yes, larger dogs

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Contributed with thanks by selectability

Queensland Mental Health Week returns from the 3rd to 11th October, bringing Queenslanders together to raise awareness and encourage conversations about mental health and wellbeing.

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This year’s theme, “Build Community, Build Wellbeing”, highlights the important role that connection and belonging play in supporting positive mental health.

It is a reminder that wellbeing isn’t something we build alone. To celebrate the everyday moments of connection that help people feel valued, supported, and like they belong. Because when we build community, we build wellbeing for everyone.

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At selectability, creating these opportunities for connection is an important part of supporting locals to improve their mental wellbeing.

Regional Coordinator Julie Ross said programs like selectability’s Clubhouse provide a safe and welcoming space where people can meet others, build confidence, learn new skills and feel part of their community.

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“Whether it’s getting involved in self-reflection activities, engaging with others through cooking classes, or connecting with the community and nature through the community garden or out of town trips,” Julie said.

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“These activities are designed to foster connection and support, but also reduce loneliness.”

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Queensland Mental Health Week is an opportunity for everyone to think about the small ways they can strengthen their own connections, whether that’s joining a local activity, checking in with someone or simply making time to connect with the people around them.

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For anyone over 18 seeking support to improve their mental wellbeing, selectability offers a range of NDIS supports, with funding options also available for those not on the scheme.

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To find out more, contact the selectability Ingham team on 07 4781 2690 or pop into the Clubhouse at 11-13 Lannercost Street, Ingham, and chat with the team.

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Take care when home-trimming trees as they may have grown close to powerlines. Photo supplied: Ergon

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Contributed with thanks by Ergon Energy Network & Energex

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As Queenslanders get stuck into spring pruning, Ergon Energy Network is warning them to stay well clear of overhead service wires when trimming trees, at a high-risk time of year for vegetation management incidents.  

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Ergon’s Safety Manager Grace White said there were 33 accidental contacts with powerlines caused by vegetation management last spring, up 12 from the previous year.    

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“In recent weeks our crews have responded to a number of incidents, including a service line brought down by a home gardener in the Bundaberg region and an 11,000-volt conductor contacted by a branch cut by a professional tree cutter on the Gold Coast.    

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“You don’t need to be touching a powerline to be at risk of serious injury or death – electricity can flow through the tree branches you’re pruning, the ladder you’re standing on or tools you’re holding.

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“Thankfully no one was injured in the most recent incidents, but it’s a timely reminder to plan safe work near overhead powerlines and Look Up and Live while work is in progress.

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“Whether you’re cleaning up your own yard or cutting trees for a living, you need to consider the risks and how to stay safe,” Grace said.  

59 per cent of the incidents in the spring of 2024 and 2025 were caused by tree felling, predominantly carried out by professionals.    

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“You should use the Look Up and Live app to check the location of overhead wires, plan safe work and manage the risk of trees falling across powerlines, and if you’re still unsure you can contact us for further safety advice,” Grace said.

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Overhead service wires supplying power directly to people’s properties were the electrical asset most likely to be damaged.

“Like any powerline, fallen service wires should always be treated as live and reported immediately to Ergon on 13 16 70.

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“Green thumbs can help reduce the risk of incidents, damage and outages by planting smart in the first place – you can find a list of powerline-friendly trees on our website,” Grace said.    

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Ergon uses highly skilled vegetation management crews to trim trees near approximately 800,000 spans of overhead powerlines throughout the year.    

Small Moments, Lifelong Benefits

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Hi Readers,

Some of the most important learning in a child’s life happens long before the first day of school. It happens during a bedtime story, while singing in the car, on a walk around the neighbourhood or through a simple game at home.  

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These everyday moments might seem small, but they help children develop language, confidence and a lifelong love of learning. First 5 Forever is a wonderful initiative that helps Queensland families make the most of those important early years.

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Here in Hinchinbrook Shire, families can access First 5 Forever through our local library. It provides a welcoming place where parents, carers and young children can spend time together, learn, play and connect with others in the community.  

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Our library staff play an important role in making these opportunities accessible to local families and ensuring early literacy support is available close to home.

The great things about early learning it doesn’t require expensive equipment or formal lessons. Simple everyday moments talking, reading, singing and playing together can make a real difference.

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I encourage families with young children to drop into the library, meet the team and discover what First 5 Forever has to offer.

First 5 Forever is held every Thursday 10:30am – 12pm For more information, contact our local library on 4776 4614.

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Small moments today can help build strong foundations for a lifetime.

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Herbert River RSL Sub-Branch President Rodger Bow with Lynette Croton and George Croton, holding their volunteer service recognitions. Photo supplied: Herbert River RSL

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By Victoria Velton

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For 30 years, the Herbert River RSL have hosted raffles and prizes on Friday nights. Behind this consistent fundraising has been the quiet dedication of George and Lynette Croton.

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The couple were recently recognised for three decades of voluntary service to the Herbert River RSL Sub-Branch, having spent thousands of Friday nights volunteering, selling raffle tickets and helping wherever they were needed, as well as giving countless hours behind the scenes.

“Thirty years of volunteering isn't just a milestone — it represents an incredible amount of dedication, generosity and commitment to our Club,” said Herbert River RSL Sub-Branch Manager Kerryn Brock.

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Herbert River RSL Sub-Branch President, Rodger Bow said the raffles did not simply happen each week, with someone needing to organise prizes, prepare for the evening, sell tickets, conduct the draws and make sure everything ran smoothly.

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“For the past 30 years, two of our members have done exactly that,” Rodger said.

“Through their steadfast dedication, reliability and countless hours of voluntary service, they have made Friday nights a valued tradition and contributed greatly to our club's success.”

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Lynette said the award was a meaningful acknowledgement of the years she and George have spent supporting the RSL and its members.

“It’s a real honour. I was really surprised. Thirty years to me is a long time,” she said.

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The couple first became involved with the RSL around 30 years ago, with Lynette’s father already involved with the Board.  

At the time, there were no Friday night raffles, and Lynette approached the manager about starting them.

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She enlisted the help of her friend Diane, and the pair began organising the weekly raffles.  

“I think it was ’96 that we started,” George said.

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Three decades later, the raffles remain a familiar part of the club, but the couple say the friendships built along the way have been just as important.

“We’ve made lots and lots of friends over the last 30 years. It’s been really great,” said George.

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Beyond the raffles, George has also regularly taken on jobs around the club and even heads to the cemetery to repair and paint graves without being asked.

“If there’s something to be done around here, we just do it,” George said.  

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“It’s just something that we like doing, and we don’t do it because we have to. We do it because we want to do it.”

The couple plan to be involved with the RSL for as long as they are able.

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“It’s just nice to be appreciated for what you do. We’ve been working here a long time,” George said.

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“But we don’t do it for the recognition. We just do it because we enjoy doing it.”  

On the BBQ, sizzling up a storm. Photo sourced: State Emergency Service Halifax & Ingham Groups

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A local business has helped put the sizzle into a State Emergency Service (SES) get-together, donating meat for a BBQ enjoyed by members and their families.

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The SES thanked Frank at Galipo’s Midtown Meats for the donation, which gave local volunteers an opportunity to put aside their uniforms and emergency duties and simply catch up over a meal.

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“SES is many things to many people,” the Halifax and Ingham SES wrote.

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“It's not always activating, deploying, training, preparing and helping our communities. Sometimes it's just like last night, a time for our members and their families to catch up over a BBQ.”

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The donation was a gesture that helped support the volunteers who give their time to helping the community during emergencies and severe weather events.

The SES also used the occasion to encourage more locals to consider joining the organisation, with information nights planned for both the Ingham and Halifax SES groups over the coming months.

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“If you are keen to join SES, get in touch now,” the organisation said.

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The SES plays an important role in supporting Queensland communities during emergencies, but its work also relies on local volunteers being willing to step forward.

Anyone interested in joining the Halifax or Ingham SES groups is encouraged to get in touch and attend an upcoming information night to find out more about volunteering.

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Tuesday morning means Scrabble for Angie La Spina, Wendy Frazer and Robyn Brunello at Tully Library.

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From Scrabble and Mahjong to bowls, pickleball, golf, pottery, walking and volunteering, Cassowary Coast seniors are keeping active, involved and connected in all sorts of ways.

This October, Queensland Seniors Month offers another opportunity to join in, with Cassowary Coast Libraries hosting free events where people can meet others and perhaps discover an activity that keeps them coming back.

At Tully Library, those connections happen every week around the Scrabble board.

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“I’ve been coming here every Tuesday since I retired about four years ago,” Robyn Brunello said.

She joins up to 20 keen wordsmiths and returns on Wednesdays for Mahjong.

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Scrabble keeps spelling and arithmetic skills sharp, but there’s a social side too, with cards drawn  each week to determine who plays who. Newcomers are always welcome.

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“If you want to have a look, we’ll squeeze you in,” Robyn said. “Same with Mahjong – even if you’ve never played before.”

Beyond games, Cassowary Coast Libraries offer year-round activities including Craft & Laugh, Conversation Café and Tech Help, helping people of all ages learn, socialise and stay connected.

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Connection could be your highest-scoring word this Seniors Month. Put your local library’s free morning tea on the calendar… With good company, fun and activities on the cards, it could be the first move towards a new hobby, group or friendship.

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Seniors Month – Cassowary Coast Libraries events

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Cardwell – Stronger Together: Celebrating Community Resilience
Friday 9th October, 10am–4pm
A free community day with morning tea, local history, guided tours, Conversation Café, digital workshops, Tech Help and other activities.

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Mission Beach Library Morning Tea
Thursday 15th October, 10am–12pm

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Tully Library Morning Tea
Friday 16th October, 9.30–11.30am

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Innisfail Library Morning Tea
Wednesday 21st October, 10am–12pm

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All events are free. Booking ahead for catering is appreciated. Visit your local library or call 1300 366 616.

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CONNECTED FOR HEALTH

Staying socially connected isn't just enjoyable, it's good for your health.  

The World Health Organisation says around one in four older people is socially isolated, while research links social isolation and loneliness with increased risks of heart disease, stroke, depression and dementia. Meaningful social activities can improve mental health, life satisfaction and quality of life.

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Serving and retired police gathered at St Clare’s Catholic Church for Tully’s National Police Remembrance Day service. Image supplied

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Serving and retired police officers from across the Cassowary Coast joined community members in Tully this week for National Police Remembrance Day, honouring officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

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A colour party marched through the town in a formal procession before gathering at St Clare’s Catholic Church for the annual service where among the traditions was the handover of the Cassowary Coast community baton.

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Originally presented to the Inspector at Innisfail Police Station on behalf of the Cassowary Coast community, the baton symbolises the goodwill and trust placed in local police and is carried each National Police Remembrance Day by a retired officer during the march.  

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At this years’ service, retired Police Special Constable Darrin Padget formally carried and passed the baton to First Year Constable Bryce Haigh.

Accepting it on behalf of current members of the Cassowary Coast Patrol Group, Constable Haigh acknowledged the trust it represented.

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“We understand it is a symbol of goodwill and trust on behalf of the community and will endeavour to do our best to uphold the values the community expects from us,” he said.

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Following the service, officers and guests gathered for morning tea provided by the St Clare’s Catholic Women Tully.

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First observed nationally in 1989, National Police Remembrance Day is held annually on 29^th September, the feast day of St Michael the Archangel, traditionally regarded as the patron saint of police. In 2006, the National Police Memorial in Canberra was dedicated on the same date, providing a permanent place of remembrance for Australian police officers who have died because of their duties.

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The sack race saw some eager competitors. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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By Victoria Velton

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Volunteers are being called on to keep Forrest Beach’s community events alive, as the Progress Association wraps up a successful year of markets and prepares for its upcoming Carols by the Sea.

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This year saw the Progress Association introduce a series of themed markets throughout the year, including a Show and Shine in June, an emergency services theme in July, Spring into Fitness in August and a school holiday-focused market for the final event.

The final Forrest Beach market of the year attracted a strong crowd, with Event Coordinator Mr Scuderia saying the rides and games proved particularly popular with families, namely the sack races, jumping castles and carousel.  

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Mr Scuderia said that although he was sad to see the season close, the themed markets would return next year, with the association already planning another emergency services and Show and Shine market.

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“It’s the last one for the year, so I’m always disappointed because I would like to see markets 12 months of the year here,” Mr Scuderia laughed.

“But we’re happy to recharge and start fresh next year.”

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Now, the association is also preparing for its annual Carols by the Sea event, which will be held in partnership with the local lifesavers. The event will move from Progress Park to the lifesavers’ venue, with the association expecting a strong crowd following last year’s attendance of around 500 people.

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The evening will feature local singers, food, popcorn and fireworks, with the carols beginning at 6pm and fireworks scheduled for 8.30pm. The new partnership will also allow alcohol to be sold within the lifesavers’ licensed area.

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Looking further ahead, the Progress Association hopes to work with the lifesavers on reviving the Stinger Net opening event, potentially bringing back fashion parades and Battle of the Bands. Mr Scuderia said the lifesavers’ sloping lawn provided a natural amphitheatre for large community events.

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The association has also continued working closely with the CWA, which is expected to co-lease the Progress Hall next year after leaving its current premises.

Despite the success of the year, Mr Scuderia highlighted a growing need for volunteers, with many community clubs and associations facing an ageing membership.

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Mr Scuderia said without new members and volunteers, some organisations could eventually disappear, taking their markets, festivals and other community events with them.

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Volunteering with the Progress Association offers opportunity to learn practical skills, handling money, serving customers, building connections and gaining valuable experience in a friendly and supportive environment.

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The Progress Association thanked those who continue to volunteer their time and encouraged more people to put their hand up and help keep local community events running.

Wayde Chiesa MP attended a Parliamentary Committee hearing in Cairns on the proposed Breach Bail, Go to Jail laws. Photo source: Wayde Chiesa MP

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The past fortnight has taken me from Parliament in Brisbane back across North Queensland, with plenty happening on some of the issues that matter most to our communities - community safety, growing our visitor economy and supporting the industries that underpin our region.  

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Last week, I attended Parliamentary Hearings in Cairns and Townsville into the Crisafulli Government’s Breach Bail, Go to Jail laws. Since the Hinchinbrook by-election, I have continued to advocate for stronger bail laws and consequences for repeat offenders. It was important that the Committee came to North Queensland and heard directly from our communities who have experienced the consequences of repeat offending. These new laws will introduce tougher consequences for serious offences committed while on bail and strengthen the tests around granting bail.  

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There were different perspectives put forward during the hearings, and that is an important part of the parliamentary process. But my position remains clear: bail is a privilege, and if you breach bail, there must be consequences. The Committee will now consider the evidence before reporting back to Parliament, and I will continue advocating for stronger laws that put victims and our community safety first.  

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I also recently joined Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell for a tourism roundtable and discussions with Hinchinbrook Shire Mayor Ramon Jayo about the opportunities we have right across our region. We live in one of the most beautiful parts of Queensland, with everything from Wallaman Falls and Hinchinbrook Island to our beaches and our incredible national parks, waterways and coastline. The opportunity is to encourage more people travelling between Townsville and Cairns to stop, stay longer and spend in our communities. That means continuing to look at how we promote our region, improve the visitor experience and support new tourism opportunities.  

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Of course, one industry that has sustained our communities for generations is sugar, and the crushing season continues across the Herbert. It has been a particularly challenging season. Different parts of the district have experienced vastly different weather conditions, while high fuel prices continue to put pressure on growers and harvesting contractors.

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Despite these challenges, our growers, harvesting crews, mill workers, transport operators and everyone involved in the industry continue to get on with the job. As we move through the remaining weeks of the crush, I hope conditions are kind, the season progresses well and every grower has the opportunity to get their crop away.  

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Whether it is making our communities safer, growing our visitor economy or backing the industries that sustain our region, I will continue listening locally and making sure Hinchinbrook has a strong voice and a seat at the table.

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Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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By Victoria Velton

Hinchinbrook’s seafood industry took centre stage last week as fishers, industry representatives, researchers, business owners and government representatives gathered for the inaugural Spotlight On Hinchinbrook seafood industry event.

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Organised by local business owner and Wild Local operator Rebecca Zahgini, the three-day event aimed to bring together people from across the seafood sector while highlighting the importance of commercial fishing to regional communities.

Among those invited were the CEO of Seafood Industry Australia, representatives from the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation (FRDC), the Queensland Seafood Industry Association, OceanWatch Australia, Fisheries Queensland, Hinchinbrook Shire Council members, Hinchinbrook MP Wayde Chiesa and Senator Susan McDonald.  

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Rebecca said she was excited to welcome industry representatives from across Queensland and Australia, and “show them our beautiful hometown and our country hospitality.”  

“Seafood is not just commercial fishing,” Rebecca said.

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“It also includes research and science, such as with aquaculture. There’s lots of different diverse ways people can be involved in the seafood industry.”

The program began with a Women in Seafood Australia (WISA) afternoon tea, which a representative said was set to bring fishers, post-harvest businesses, advocates and policymakers together to build connection and trust.

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Next, the event moved into a seafood barbecue featuring local produce, before a networking evening at the TYTO Conference Centre.

The event then continued with a WISA business breakfast and fisheries workshop, with panellists Kate Lamason, Sienna Green and Raelene Moody discussing their experiences working in and running businesses within North Queensland’s seafood industry.

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Rebecca said the main purpose of bringing the industry together in Hinchinbrook was to highlight the positive contribution made by the sector.

“The main reason of bringing everyone here to Ingham is to show what a positive and professional industry it is,” she said.

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“To really shine a light on the importance of it in little regional communities.”

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She also wanted the event to recognise and shine light on the region’s commercial fishers, a theme that echoed throughout the event, with OceanWatch Australia highlighting its Master Fisherman program and the local operators involved.

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OceanWatch Australia described the program as an opportunity for fishers to demonstrate their commitment to best practice, with attendees encouraged to acknowledge their experience and contribution to the industry.

“Here in this region, our fishers are master fishers,” a representative said.

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“They’re always striving to do the right things on the water, but they don’t always get seen and don’t always get acknowledged for that.”

“There’s hundreds of years’ worth of knowledge and experience, and people working for their community, and they provide such a valuable resource,” the OceanWatch representative said.

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Hinchinbrook Mayor Ramon Jayo welcomed Spotlight On Hinchinbrook attendees to the region, highlighting the long history of commercial fishing in the district.

“We are fortunate to live and work in a region blessed with pristine waters, rich marine resources, and a seafood industry that proudly supplies some of the finest products in the region,” he said.

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“Commercial fishing and produce have been part of the fabric for a very long time.”

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Inaugural Spotlight On Hinchinbrook Event Puts Seafood Industry In Focus

Mayor Jayo also spoke about the changes faced by the local fishing industry over the years and the importance of finding a balance between conservation and maintaining a viable industry.

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“I am conservative by nature and embrace the need for conservation for our environment and future generations, but there does need to be appropriate balance,” he said.

“To my mind, commercial fishing and local preparation and distribution are imperative not only to our community but our society in general.”

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He also highlighted Council’s work to support local operators, including improvements to marine access and new infrastructure for commercial operators.

“My Council is quite proud of our district’s seafood industry, and we do engage and assist where possible,” Mayor Jayo said.

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“We will continue to support the industry as best as we can.”

The event also recognised individuals for their contribution to the fishing industry, with John Taifalos, Lisa Putzka, Darcy Fazio and Allan Bobbermen receiving awards during the Expo.

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Senator Susan McDonald, who attended the event, congratulated the recipients.

“We need Australian seafood caught by Australian fishers on Australian tables,” she said.

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The three-day event also sparked discussion around the future of the industry, including current fisheries policies and whether some existing approaches remain suited to the realities of the sector.

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Alongside the policy discussions, speakers highlighted the value of generational knowledge built up among local fishers and the importance of ensuring Australian-caught seafood remains an accessible choice for Australian consumers.

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Sophie Turner, Cassandra Cataldo and Annie Hepner enjoy the many interpretations of Sanctuary at the exhibition’s opening night including Cassandra’s painting ’Home Is Where The Curlews Are’

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More than 20 works by local artists are exploring the many meanings of Sanctuary in the latest exhibition to open at Mission Arts.

From the comfort of home and familiar wildlife to the peace found in nature and landscape, the exhibition reveals personal interpretations of what it means to find refuge, belonging and calm.

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Opening the exhibition on Friday night, local artist Sally Maroney said the theme was deliberately chosen to challenge artists to explore their own interpretation of the topic.

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“Sanctuary is a theme that can be interpreted in many different ways – safe and comfortable, for people or animals; or for refugees, a new home,” she said.

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Each artist has also provided a statement to accompany their work, available on the Mission Arts website, offering an insight into the inspiration and meaning behind each piece.

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For Cassandra Cataldo, sanctuary can be found close to home. Her acrylic painting, Home Is Where The Curlews Are, celebrates some familiar feathered residents.

“The curlews have been in our yard as long as we have – my sanctuary,” Cassandra wrote.

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For Bruce Parry, his artwork Sanctuary – Dunk Island from South Mission is also closely connected to the natural world.

“For me, sanctuary means being surrounded by nature and being able to have the time to observe in great depth,” he wrote.

Sanctuary is on exhibition at Mission Arts until October 20. The gallery at the Mission Beach Community Arts Centre, MARCS Park, 2290 Tully Mission Beach Road, is open daily from 10am to 2pm. Entry is free.

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Information about the exhibition and artists’ statements can be viewed at www.missionarts.au.

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The QCWA Flying Fish Point hall was destroyed by fire following an electrical fault, leaving the branch working to rebuild its facilities. Photo supplied by QCWA Flying Fish Point

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Queensland Country Women's Association (QWCA) Flying Fish Point is calling on the community to come together for a day of fundraising as the group works to recover from a devastating fire.

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Members will be holding a Cent Sale at Innisfail’s Queens Hotel on Saturday 21^st November, with proceeds helping fund repairs and refurbishment of the branch’s cottage on Alice Street, as well as plans to eventually rebuild its hall.  

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“Unfortunately, our hall was destroyed by the fire due to electrical fault, leaving us without the larger meeting and community space that was such an important part of our Branch,” said 2026 QCWA Flying Fish Point President Deborah Blennerhassett.

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“We are determined to keep moving forward and restore the Cottage as a welcoming space for our members and the wider community.”  

Since the fire, the cottage has faced several attempted break-ins, creating further repair costs and leaving the branch in need of new furnishings.  

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QCWA Flying Fish Point is the only remaining QCWA branch in the Innisfail area, with members keen to ensure the organisation keeps going. Broader fundraising efforts have included selling raffle tickets and Hundred Boards through local businesses and community events.

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“Our future plans include restoring our cottage, working towards rebuilding our hall and eventually promoting the cottage and hall as a community venue and destination for functions and weddings,” Deborah said.

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“We would love to see the cottage become a place where people can gather, hold events and enjoy the beautiful Far North Queensland area.

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“We want to get back to doing what we love — supporting our community. Over the years, our Branch has supported many local causes and community organisations, and having our cottage and hall back up and running will allow us to become even more involved and continue giving back to the community.”

Members have continued to meet despite the loss of their facilities, with regular meetings and craft days taking place. The branch is welcoming new members from Innisfail and surrounding areas, with no previous QCWA experience required.

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November’s Cent Sale will feature a range of prizes, with doors opening at 9am ahead of the first call at 10:30am. Entry is $10 per person, with numbers limited. Attendees will need to bring their numbered invitation, which will also serve as their lucky door prize number.  

A pre-sale afternoon will also be held on Friday, 20^th November, from 3pm to 6pm for people without a booked seat who would like to purchase their tickets ahead of the event. Bookings are required before the event, with the branch encouraging people to secure their places early by emailing admin@qcwaffp.com or calling 0457 971 111.

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“Every ticket purchased, donation made and person who comes along to one of our fundraising activities helps us take another step towards restoring our Cottage and rebuilding our hall,” Deborah said.

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“For our members, this is about much more than simply raising money. It is about bringing our Branch back to life, creating a place for our members and community to come together, and getting back to supporting the many local causes that are so important to us.”

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What: QCWA Flying Fish Point Cent Sale
When: Saturday, November 21, 9am doors open, 10:30am start
Where: The Queens Hotel, Innisfail
Cost: $10 per person

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