With unpredictable weather attempting to dampen the festive spirit of the region, the Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce and Markets at the Mosaic organisers assured the second 2024 Late Night Shopping event would go ahead, rain, hail or shine!

On Thursday 19th December, a wonderful turnout filled Mercer Lane and surrounding precincts, with stalls retailing handmade delights, delicious treats, beautiful plants, fantastic florals, and more for all to enjoy. Shoppers flooded the streets, supporting local artisans with the exceptional vocal talents of Kaitlyn Rapista spreading Christmas cheer well into the evening as well as a violinist performing further along Lannercost Street.

As well as plenty of retail goodies to browse, the Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce announced the winners of 2024’s spectacular Shop and Win champaign! $17,000 worth of prizes were sourced from local businesses around the Hinchinbrook region with 17 major prizes up for grabs! 14,500 receipt entries were mixed together in a children’s swimming pool with an outstanding average spend of $150 per customer at various retailors within the Hinchinbrook Shire.

“We are very proud of all the hard work that has been put in behind the scenes for this campaign to happen, and we are beyond thrilled with the participation from the local community,” shared Christina from the Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce.

As announced at 6pm on Thursday, Vic, Theresa, Heath, Mark, Julie, Taylor, John, Angie, Sharma, Paula, Sharon, C. Bridston, Peter, R. Ramarano, Sue, Carley, and Jorja were celebrated as the campaign’s winners with the Chamber set to be in contact with them shortly. Congratulations!

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See more pics at: https://www.hinchinbrooklife.com/social-pics/shop-win-success-at-the-late-night-shopping-event

Ingham Maraka Festival held their ‘Wash-Up Meeting’ on Wednesday 17th  December, discussing new plans for the 2025 Maraka Festival and how they wish to improve next years’ event.

President Patrick Lynch said the 2024 Ingham Maraka Festival was a success, with no hiccups but addressed that he would like to see the Cocktail Night event have a larger attendance.

Chantelle Previtera, Maraka Festival Administration Officer, said next year the Festival is going to try to promote the event more.

“Due to the low number of Festival Queens last year, it does give a lower attendance,” she said.

“We're hoping next year that things will be different, and then we will definitely increase those numbers!

“Next year we are going to work on promoting and getting a lot more of the younger ones to take on the Queen Quest.”

Participants in the 2023 and 2024 Ingham Maraka Festival were present at the meeting and spoke about what they liked most about the festival.

Runner-up Queen in 2024 Johanna Buckle said it was a fun experience.

“Mostly I really enjoyed it, I got to make new friends out of it and it was a way to get the community together,” said Johanna.

Miss Personality 2024 Rachel Hallam enjoyed the festival because it was something different.

“You don’t get to do it often and I’m looking forward to it next year,” she said.

Princess winner of 2023 was at the meeting, to ‘hand over the baton’ to this years’ 2024 winner.

“I really liked all of the community events that were hosted by the Council, I went to senior morning tea, the Tasman Turtles Big Day Out, and I went to a Christmas senior afternoon tea,” she said.

“I liked seeing everybody there in town, and there were lots of people enjoying themselves and I really like being a part of it.”

Princess winner of 2024 Hazel Cary said she liked the festival because she was able to make new friends and get out of her shell a bit more.

“I enjoyed that I was able to have new experiences, get out of my shell a little bit and try new things that I've never been able to do, and especially because now that I've won, I get the chance to promote Ingham even more. I just had a really good time,” she said.

The Ingham Maraka Festival 2025 dates are still to be decided.

Hinchinbrook, with Christmas just around the corner I’d like to take a moment to reflect on the good things that we all have in our lives. I believe Christmas is a time to come together and celebrate the blessings of family, friendship and neighbours. It’s the season for us all to share in the joy, kindness, and generosity that makes this time of year so special.

As we exchange gifts and enjoy the festivities, I think it’s only right to remember the true spirit of Christmas by extending a helping hand to those who may be doing it tough. A simple act of kindness can make the world of difference to someone who finds this time of year lonely or challenging.

For those who follow the Christian faith, this time of year we must remember to keep Jesus in our hearts, while also being respectful of alternative religions and faiths others choose to follow.

Thank you to those who will be working through the holiday season — those working in the hospitality and service industries, our emergency services, police and of course our health workforce. Your keep the lights on when we need it most, and for that we are all grateful.

Without a doubt, Christmas is the busiest time of year on our roads, and although it can be frustrating dealing with traffic, I always say it’s better to arrive in one piece than not at all. If travelling over the next couple of weeks, I urge everyone to exercise caution to ensure you and your loved ones make it there and home alive. My New Year’s wish is for a safe and happy holiday season for all.

Like most government departments and small businesses, our office will be shutting for a short break. The Hinchinbrook Electorate Office will be closed from Monday, 23 December 2024 to Friday, 3 January 2025 (inclusive). I think our amazing electorate staff deserve a moment to recharge in preparation for the year ahead.

Personally, I’m ready for a bit of time off but am already anticipating my return in the New Year. I look forward to seeing everyone out and about in Hinchinbrook in 2025. From my family to yours, I wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous New Year.

Contributed with thanks to Nick Dametto MP, Member for Hinchinbrook

The Rotary Club of Hinchinbrook, which formed from the amalgamation of the Ingham and Herbert River clubs, continues to give back to the Hinchinbrook Community.

Rotary's primary motto is "Service Above Self" and its secondary motto is "One profits most who serves best".

The purpose of Rotary International is to improve lives and communities around the world through humanitarian service, promoting peace, fighting disease, providing clean water and encouraging high ethical standards.

Rotary members are expected to be active in promoting the dignity of all people and respect for human rights. 

Rotary is a non-political and non-religious organisation that values diversity and is open to all people. The organisation's guiding principles include: 

   • Developing friendships as an opportunity for service 
   • The Four-Way Test: Is it the truth? Is it fair? Will it build goodwill and better friendships? Will it be beneficial? 

The local Rotary club has been involved with community projects that include a large Battery Drive that has helped benefit a local support organisation and support for charities such as Meals on Wheels and young local people who have taken further steps in academic, arts and sports fields.

Members can be seen assisting at events such as Maraka, ANZAC Day, Hinchinbrook Art Awards and Christmas Carols.

A couple of the big money raising charities that funds are raised for include the Rotary Foundation (that in-turn supports less fortunate people around the world) and also Polio Plus.  

Every $1 that Rotary donates towards Polio Plus the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation donates $2.

Sir Clem Renouf, Rotary International President 1978 – 1979 was actually born in Ingham. He helped propel Rotary toward its top goal of eradicating polio worldwide.

For further information about the Rotary Club of Hinchinbrook and how you can give back to our community and world speak to Peter Reitano in person or phone him on 0407 167 108.

Contributed with thanks to Peter Reitano

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Meals On Wheels Ingham has over 80 clients in the Hinchinbrook region and it is the community’s generous donations that enable this vital local service to operate all year round.  

With the community’s help Meals on Wheels has been able to instal solar panels, and buy two brand-new ovens for their brand-new building.

Meals On Wheels Ingham moved into their current building on the 18th April of this year and this impressive modern building was kindly funded by the Lower Herbert Halifax Lions Club.

President of Meals On Wheels Ingham Rita Phillips is extremely thankful for the support.

Meals On Wheels Ingham deliver hot meals to clients on a weekly basis, on Mondays they go to Forrest Beach and the Lower Herbert area with meals. On Monday, Wednesday, and Friday they service Ingham.

None of this would be possible without volunteers which Rita said are vital.

“We are indebted to the volunteers because without them, we wouldn't be moving,” said Rita.

“The volunteers come into the kitchen to help our staff there and they also deliver the meals.

“There are business houses that help us out in that too, NQIB and the Hinchinbrook Shire Council send their members once a month or sometimes twice a month, to come and deliver for us.”

Meals On Wheels Ingham run mainly on volunteers and Rita said without them their clients would really struggle.

“There are people who don't have family here and we are the only way they get their meal,” said Rita.

Rita also added that they are always on the lookout for more volunteers so if you have some time to contribute they would love to hear from you.

With my contribution to the Councillor Column falling on Christmas Eve, I feel it’s appropriate to begin by wishing you all the very best Christmas and a safe and Happy New Year, to you and your families.

Well, hasn’t another year come quickly? By the time this column is printed, we would have seen another crushing season come to a close. Again, another challenging year for all in the industry, while we can’t control the weather, we remain positive that industry stakeholders can solve some ongoing issues that seem to continuously hamper the crushing season.

The New Year will come quickly, and there are many things under my Corporate, Development and Regulatory Services Advisory Portfolio that I look forward to assisting in progressing, advocating and lobbying for. One of these is the Dungeness Sea Wall and Dredging, acknowledging the years of hard work that have been put in by previous Councillors and staff. Seeing this major improvement come to fruition will no doubt not only help drive tourism in our Shire, but will also give the Coast Guard access when needed to deploy and attend to emergencies. Such things cannot happen without funding assistance from the State and Federal Governments and to strike a fair balance to not just maintain and repair critical infrastructure, but to deliver on new projects to increase liveability in our Shire.

Having such a great newspaper that is Hinchinbrook Life, this very paper that you are reading for free, has been a very welcoming platform for the community to engage with on all things happening within our Shire. To Mayor Ramon Jayo, fellow Councillors, staff and the team at Hinchinbrook Life, thank you for having the initiative and drive to get this paper on the stands in the community.

Monday 20 July 1953, the usually calm atmosphere of the Station Hotel bar was shaken when patrons rubbed their eyes in disbelief when they witnessed an extraordinary guest casually entre the establishment—a baby elephant named Jo Dee from Wirth’s Circus.
Accompanied by her trainer, Jo Dee confidently strolled through the doors, much to the astonishment of the crowded bar. Showing remarkable composure and impeccable manners, the young elephant approached the bar, where she was promptly served a beer. With effortless skill, she used her trunk to sip her drink, gave a playful wave, and departed as gracefully as she arrived.

The greatest concern I have that may follow a disaster event is the inability to communicate with our community. As you are aware, this situation may arise following a cyclone when transmission towers and associated infrastructure are damaged.
Unfortunately as a society, we are becoming more and more reliant on social mediums and digital platforms to receive our news and to communicate with each other. Digital communication is almost totally reliant on towers for transmission.
To address these concerns, the Hinchinbrook Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) has adopted a communications plan which essentially sets out the various types of communication methods that can and will be deployed before, during and after an event so as to maintain communications and delivery of information to the public as necessary.
Obviously, the primary source of communication at present as indicated earlier is phone and internet service due to the speed at which information can be delivered. However, other means available and which are utilised include radio broadcast services and television. Fortunately, the television and radio broadcast services are facilitated from transmitters located well away from our district which lengthens the odds of being damaged when our district experiences a disaster.
Another option and a very important component of our supplementary means of communication is the humble CB radio. As you may or may not be aware, we are very fortunate in Hinchinbrook to have the services of many dedicated people who volunteer as our Local Area Wardens. The function of a Local Area Warden is to assist the HLDMG with situational awareness of circumstances in their particular areas and to assist members of the community with information both to and from the HLDMG, particularly when other primary sources of information are not working.
In situations when primary sources are down, The HLDMG will converse with Wardens utilising Channel 9 (Mt Mercer), Channel 16 (Wallaman) and Channel 5 (Ingham). Rural Fire Service personnel can utilise Local Area Warden channels from their Rural Fire Service Queensland vehicles. The Halifax LDMG subgroup operates under normal CB radio (Channel 3).
So if you have a CB radio in your vehicle or know a neighbour or friend that has one in a car or tractor, you may be able to utilise this medium to receive information or to send information to and from the Hinchinbrook LDMG.
Other forms of supplementary communication that may be used, depending on circumstances include: door knocking, loud hailer fitted to vehicle, roadside messaging boards and pamphlet distribution.
Hopefully we do not find ourselves in that situation, but it is important for you to know how to get information when needed. Further information on communication strategies can be found on Council’s disaster management pages at https://www.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au/community-environment/disaster-and-emergency-information.
As Christmas is almost here, I would like to take the opportunity to wish our community the best for the festive season. I hope you get the time to relax and enjoy Christmas with family and friends. I would like to also thank everyone who donated to the Mayor’s Christmas Appeal. The response was phenomenal, and I have no doubt that your donations will make someone very happy on Christmas Day. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year everyone.

Before opening the vibrant community sewing hub, Barnes Sewing Centre, owner Sue Beatts was a nurse and midwife at the local hospital, but she has always had a passion for sewing.

When she retired, Sue began helping out the previous owner and her dear friend Elma at Barnes Sewing Centre, so taking over the store was a natural transition.

For Sue, sewing is a hobby as well as a profession and that’s what makes her friendly store such a relaxing environment.

“I like it, it's creative and is something I could do by myself,” said Sue.

“It’s not something you have to have other people with you to do and I find it relaxing.

“You can set yourself up at home, in your own little area of the house, and it's all yours.”

Sue’s favourite things to make are patchwork items and she loves making bags, purses, and quilts.

To make quilts easier to produce, Sue decided to invest in a new piece of equipment, the long-arm quilting machine, it took her some time to master it because of the complexity of the technology, but now she loves using the machine.

At Barnes Sewing Centre, they offer a variety of services from machine repairs to material supplies, work wear logos, a range of fabrics, and quilt making.

Sue expressed that the store does very well, and she even gets visitors from Cairns and Townsville.

Sue also said stores like hers are becoming rare, many are closing down, and she is proud to offer a unique and charming space for sewers from across the region to enjoy the love of fabric and sewing together.

Come and explore her haven of sewing bliss, it’s always a wonderful experience chatting with Sue who has expert advice on almost any question you may have about sewing.

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Local business SpinFX Electrical has all your electrical and air conditioning needs and in the last six months owner Jesse Spina says they have added solar panel installation and maintenance to the business.

“"We got into solar as a lot of our clients were enquiring about it and have had numerous reports of their power bills going up",” he explained.

“And what better place to do it other than North Queensland? We have the best sun in the world, and there's an abundance of it,” said Jesse.

“Solar wasn’t really affordable a few years ago but prices have since dropped and with government incentives, it is much easier to afford it and we also provide finance options to help cash flow"

SpinFX also install solar batteries, that store energy generated by solar panels that can be used later, this in turn reduces electricity bills and can be used for a period of time if power goes out.

Solar is new to SpinFX, starting only six months ago, and before that, the company focused primarily on electrical and air conditioning.

SpinFX are experts in installing air conditioning units and adept at maintenance, electrical renovations and repairs.

Jesse said that they sell what they think is the best air-con, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, to help beat the humidity and heat here in North Queensland.

SpinFX cover a large area including Hinchinbrook Shire, Etheridge Shire, Croydon Shire, and the Shire of Carpentaria.

Jesse is a local guy, and he loves the Hinchinbrook Region, and when he first set up his business, it was important to him that all customers are completely satisfied with their work.

“We strive to make sure all of our customers are happy,” shared Jesse.

“We won't leave a site unless the customer's happy and I have based my business around that since it started.”

Hinchinbrook residents have once again thrown their support behind the Mayor’s Christmas Appeal in the spirit of Christmas. 
 
Mayor Ramon Jayo said, “The Hinchinbrook community has shown their overwhelming support for community members that need a little extra help at this time of year.  The donations to this year’s Mayor’s Christmas Appeal, by way of gifts and financial contributions, have been heart-warming.”
 
“Contributions made by community members gives spirit to those less fortunate at a time of year that can be very difficult on families.” 
 
The Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre is currently busy distributing all donations to those in the community who require help this year.  I sincerely thank all those members of the community for their generosity and support of the Mayor’s Christmas Appeal.
 
On behalf of all Councillors, I would like to wish all a very Merry Christmas and best wishes for a Happy New Year.

This holiday season, the true spirit of giving has touched the lives of 120 local families, thanks to generous donations from the community, small businesses, and other not-for-profits. The Christmas hampers, brimming with food, festive treats, and gifts, were packed and distributed by HCSC, bringing joy and relief to families in need.

The initiative, supported by the Hinchinbrook Shire Council, aimed to ensure no family goes without this Christmas. Contributions poured in from small businesses and community members, who gave generously to support their neighbours.  

“It’s heart-warming to see the community come together like this,” said Natalie, HCSC Emergency Relief Coordinator. “These hampers don’t just provide practical support—they remind families that they’re not alone and that people care.”  HCSC would not be able to complete this massive task without our team of dedicated volunteers who gave their time to organise the hampers.

Families receiving the hampers expressed gratitude for the thoughtful gesture, with many highlighting the impact of the assistance during tough economic times.  The Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre strives to ensure no family goes without. The annual Christmas Appeal serves as a testament to the power of community and the enduring spirit of Christmas.

Contributed with thanks to The Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre

Fishways are helping fish species, including barramundi and mangrove jack, to breed up in local waterways.

Six fishways built in the Ingham region, and in other places between Tully and Crystal Creek, have removed barriers for juvenile fish. Together, they’ve opened up more than 100 kilometres of creek and river systems – and recent surveys at these sites have shown they are fish highways.

More than 1000 fish were recorded moving through one of the fishways – at Insulator Creek north of Townsville - in one day. And in more recent surveys, over 4500 fish were caught and released during monitoring work at four rock ramp fishways.

“Sixteen native species, including juvenile barramundi, empire gudgeon, rainbow fish, tarpon and long-finned eels, were recorded,’’ Terrain NRM’s Deb Bass said.

“Of the 80+ species of native fish we have in the Wet Tropics region, up to half need to move between salt and freshwater habitats to complete their lifecycles. Barriers like weirs, pipes, culvert crossings and weed chokes can stop these species from thriving.

“In recent surveys at our fishways, eight of the 16 native species recorded are species that need that movement - from their beginnings in saltwater to safer freshwater nursery grounds as juveniles and then back downstream to the saltwater to breed as adults. So we can see the fishways are providing access for these species, from barramundi and mangrove jack to shrimps.”

Terrain NRM has been working with OzFish Unlimited, Catchment Solutions and Australasian Fish Passage Services on the ‘Fish Homes and Highways’ project, which is funded by the Australian Government’s Reef Trust. Fishways are a relatively new solution in the region – a series of underwater stairs for fish, with deep pools between each one for resting.
Catchment Solutions fishery ecologist Matt Moore said rocks were placed strategically, sometimes in S-bend and sometimes a straight line, to achieve the right gradient to create a slower flow while also being able to withstand floods.

“To pull in our monitoring traps and see all the fish – a lot goes into the design of these structures, so we love seeing a result like this,’’ he said.

A ‘nursery slot’ is a new feature, trialled in one of the fishways, to help super small juveniles move upstream.

“It needs 20mm or less of water going through it to create the right conditions for weaker-swimming juvenile fish,” Matt said. “We recently recorded the smallest snakehead gudgeon ever documented in Australian fishway studies travelling through the slot. It was 16mm long.”

Oz Fish Unlimited’s Geoff Collins, an aquatic ecologist and Adjunct Research Fellow at James Cook University’s TropWATER, said the new fishways had been monitored for five days to assess the diversity and size of fish moving through. Results showed they would make an impact on the health of fish species and the waterways themselves.

“We are opening up habitat that many juvenile fish haven’t been able to access, particularly in low-flow situations, for decades in some cases,’’ he said.

“These structures are enabling migration for tens of thousands of fish. And the more habitat we can give fish access to, the more productive our fish stocks will be. Freshwater wetlands, creeks and rivers are important nursery grounds with abundant food resources that will help our native fish to grow fast, and to travel back downstream and breed in the tropical wet season.”

The ‘Fish Homes and Highways’ project began with extensive survey work in the Herbert and Murray River catchments between Crystal Creek near Paluma and Tully, where more than 3,500 potential fish barriers were identified, leading to on-ground inspections of over 300 sites.

The fishways were built at barriers like causeways and, in other places, bed-level crossings were built to replace causeways, or creek crossings were completely removed.

“We’ve also removed aquatic weeds and there has been revegetation in an area where fish passage works were completed,’’ Terrain NRM’s Deb Bass said.

Wilmar Sugar and Renewables 2024 crushing season in the Herbert region has drawn to a close under the shadow of significant challenges that have left some growers grappling with the harsh economic reality of standover cane. Wilmar announced the cessation of operations at Victoria Mill last week, citing a lack of adequate cane supply amid continuing wet weather and forecasted rainfall.
This year’s season has been fraught with setbacks, starting with early industrial action, wet weather, and factory breakdowns that delayed the start of crushing operations. These compounding problems left the region playing catch-up, only to be further hindered by the arrival of the wet season.
Wilmar reported that the decision to end crushing was made following consultations with grower representatives and harvesting contractors, as it became clear that operations were no longer commercially viable. Farmers now face the grim reality of standover cane, which not only impacts this season’s bottom line but also has ripple effects on next year’s harvest.
Harvesting contractors who were cutting were asked to make every effort to get the last bins on the line by 6pm on the 18th of December.
The company’s spokesperson acknowledged the collective effort, stating, “We thank all growers and harvesting operators for your hard work this season and wish you a safe and relaxing Christmas with family and friends.”
According to grower representatives, the difficulties that have characterised the 2024 season and the ongoing challenges predicted for 2025 must be addressed.

Often found nesting along the north-east Queensland coastline, little terns are small seabirds which frequent Hinchinbrook beaches during the summer months each year. Birdlife Australia’s Simon Kennedy hosts regular free workshops to educate attendees on the nature of little terns, and how the community can care for the bird if they come across a nesting area.
“The nesting population of little terns in eastern Australia is about 1,200 from the whole east coast from Tasmania to the Daintree, and one of the important areas is the Hinchinbrook coast,” Simon explained.
Workshop attendees are guided through a little tern monitoring process to support the work of Birdlife Australia and are educated on how to watch the birds within their area from when they’re hatched, to fully grown. As well as accessing the information available on Birdlife Australia’s website, birdlife.org,au, Simon also encourages the community to reach out to the Hinchinbrook Shire Council for advice on how to care for the little terns in the area if they’re unsure.
Although the area previously hosted harsh conditions, the little terns hatched at Lucinda Spit earlier this year have now reached flying age, a milestone achievement Birdlife Australia has certainly celebrated.
“Last year, and the year before, the little terns which nested at Lucinda Spit lost all of their eggs to storm tides, but this year, a couple of young ones have made it to flying age, - they’ve made it, and that’s great, that’s what we’re trying to do.”
Over the past three years, Simon has ran successful workshops from Innisfail to Townsville, with up to 15 attendees each session, and following on from his recent workshop on Friday the 13th December at Forrest Beach’s Mungalla Station, Simon invites those interested to reach out to him via simon.kennedy@birdlife.org.au for more information.
“15 people isn’t many, but the workshops are worthwhile even through the turnout isn’t very big,” added Simon.
“If some of those people are out and keep an eye on the local little terns in their area and report sightings, then that’s great for us.”

The Ingham Coast Guard sprang into action earlier this month to assist two locals stranded near Pelorus Island after their boat encountered engine trouble.

The incident occurred in the early morning when the pair called for help. Ingham Coast Guard's volunteer crew promptly launched their rescue vessel, "JJ," and headed eastward to locate the stranded boat.

Fortunately, conditions were favourable at the time of the rescue, allowing for a smooth operation. The vessel was found inshore of Pelorus Island, where a tow line was secured. The return journey was uneventful, though Coast Guard officials noted that a delay of just two hours would have resulted in significantly rougher seas due to the strengthening Nor’easter winds.

2024 has seen the Ingham Coast Guard called out 31 times, rescuing a total of 91 people.

With the holiday season upon us, the Coast Guard reminds all boaters to prioritise safety and ensure their vessels are well-prepared before heading out on the water.

For emergencies, remember to contact your local Coast Guard for assistance.

Contributed with thanks to Steve Whipps, Commander, QF14 Ingham Coast Guard.

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On the morning of 18 December 1942, an American B-24 Liberator Bomber, known as the Texas Terror, crashed into Mount Straloch on Hinchinbrook Island killing all 12 on board.

The men on board were American soldiers who were assisting Australian troops in World War II.

The Texas Terror left Garbutt Field in the morning of 18 December 1942, headed towards Iron Range. On their journey they had engine troubles so they turned around and headed back to Garbutt. Sadly, they ran into a violent storm in the Hinchinbrook region, and crashed into Hinchinbrook Island.

Remembering The Texas Terror

The 31st Battalion Association in Ingham hold a ceremony in honour of the people who lost their lives during the Texas Terror crash every year.

Each year on a date closest to the 18th December the 31st Battalion Association in Ingham hold a ceremony in honour of the Texas Terror.

Felix Reitano, President of the  31st Battalion Association Ingham Branch, said the ceremony is an important time to remember those involved in the crash and a way for the broader Hinchinbrook community to acknowledge the history of the tragedy.

“It is so we can remember those men who were killed on an island close to us, which is the closest major accident we had during the war,” explained Felix.

On Sunday 15 December the ceremony to commemorate the tragedy was held.

Locals Judy and Felix Reitano became more involved in preserving the memories of those who passed away on that fateful day when a son of one of the victims, Carl Silber, visited the region to observe the crash site and see where his father had died.

Initially, loved ones of those who had passed were informed that the crash occurred as part of the Battle of the Coral Sea, so many assumed the wreck was at the bottom of the ocean.

Carl did some research into the crash and discovered that the crash site was on Hinchinbrook Island, something locals had known about for some time, in 1997 he came to North Queensland and climbed to the wreck site.

Judy, Felix and the rest of the association were extremely moved by his story.

“He seemed to be so sad and so wanting to know about his father and what happened there, that we decided to erect a memorial to the Texas Terror,” said Judy.

“We erected the memorial on ANZAC Day in 1999 in the Botanical Gardens, and we invited him to attend.

“He was then situated in Hawaii in the Air Force and he came with the brother of the co-pilot on the plane and together they unveiled the memorial as part of our Anzac Day ceremony.”

The Texas Terror crash site remains on Hinchinbrook Island to this day, and is now regarded as a grave site by authorities.

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Hi Everyone

I hope you have all had a great week.

This week I embraced the Christmas spirit at the Lucinda Carols, the warm weather and blue skies reminded me of Adelaide, where I grew up.

I am approaching my first month here in Hinchinbrook and I am experiencing my first wet season, it is exactly how imagined it . . . wet! We get wet weather down in Adelaide, but nothing could prepare me for this. I do however, enjoy watching the thunderstorms,  especially when the sky lights up in flashes.

This time next week will be Christmas Eve, and the team and I will be enjoying some much-needed time off. I will be in Adelaide with my family, and I hope you all enjoy some time with yours too.

I am looking forward to going back to my home town for the holidays and spending some time catching up with all my friends too.

I am not sure if many of you know this, but I have been travelling up and down the coast since I started this position with Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper.

For almost a year prior to taking on this new position, I have been living in the Whitsundays working for our sister publication Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper.

For the last four weeks, since we started Hinchinbrook Life, I have been travelling between the Whitsundays and Ingham every week, that’s eight hours of driving per week!

In the New Year however, I am pleased to announce that I will be committing to a full-time position here and living locally. I will always be around and ready to attend all of your events and I can’t wait!

Daniel

"Every time a bell rings, an angel gets his wings." – It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)

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Ever year St Peter’s Catholic School students hand-write, and draw Christmas cards for Ingham Meals on Wheels clients.

President of Ingham Meals on Wheels Rita Phillips said the clients really enjoy when the students take time to write these cards.

“It's beautiful and the clients always comment on how the children have taken time to do something for them,” said Rita.

“The clients love that, and the school has been doing it for the last five years at least.”

Rita’s favourite part about Meals on Wheels is helping others in the community, not just by providing and delivering hot meals, but by doing more to ensure client’s health and wellbeing.

“Our drivers and delivery people have a very conscience job in the sense of they know who they deliver to,” she said.

“We always make sure that the wellness of the person is going okay and that's something that some other food providers don't do.

“Drivers get to know their clients, because they are on the same run each time.

“Our drivers can tell if someone is looking a bit down, so they have a quick chat, and if it's still not right, they let our admin people know, and then we ring one of their relatives or whoever's looking after them to go and have a check on them.

The final sitting week of Parliament for 2024 included significant debates and decisions that will.

The Katter’s Australian Party (KAP) moved two disallowance motions aimed at standing up for regional Queensland. The first, opposed the former Government’s gill net fishing bans in the Gulf of Carpentaria, similar to what was done on our East Coast to the detriment of many local commercial fishers in Hinchinbrook. The other motion challenged overzealous lifejacket regulations that impose unnecessary conditions on
boaties. The first motion was voted down by both major parties and the second motion was adjourned to 2025.

The Government’s Queensland Community Safety Bill passed with the support of the KAP. The new laws will amend the Youth Justice Act 1992 to remove the provision of detention as a last resort. It will also mean juvenile offenders could now serve adult sentences for certain offences.

On behalf of Hinchinbrook constituents, I submitted three Questions on Notice. The first was to the Premier, enquiring about the need for a Minister for Men, similar to the current Ministerial portfolio for Women. I also delivered a parliamentary speech on this topic. The remaining two questions were directed at the Health Minster about enhancing public dental services at the Ingham Hospital and revisiting the Patient Travel Subsidy Scheme (PTSS).

Ministerial meetings were another key focus. I met with the Deputy Premier and Environment Minister to discuss projects like Port Hinchinbrook, Dungeness, and the trunk infrastructure required to unlock housing blocks across Hinchinbrook. I also met with the Minister for Transport and Main Roads to brief him on critical road projects in Hinchinbrook including the Woolcock Street/North Shore Boulevard corridor, Gairloch, and Dallachy Road projects.

Although it’s early days, I must say each meeting last week was positive and I look forward to updating everyone on the progression of these projects in the New Year.

Contributed with thanks to Nick Dametto MP Member for Hinchinbrook

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Ingham will soon be treated to another wonderful celebration of Italian culture with the return of the Australian Italian Festival scheduled for Saturday 7 June, and Sunday 8 June 2025!

An annual celebration of all things food and culture, the Australian Italian Festival continues to make headlines across the state, with the atmosphere beautifully complimented by Ingham’s gorgeous TYTO wetlands and parklands.

Since its establishment in 1995, the festival has grown exponentially with the support and dedication of passionate members of the Italian community and the wider Hinchinbrook Shire.

A commendable milestone, the 2025 event will see the Australian Italian Festival celebrate its 30th year, with the committee more than excited to transform the TYTO Parklands into a full-scale piazza hosting around the clock entertainment, competitions, market stalls, and of course, mouthwatering Italian food!

Many locals and travellers alike journey to Ingham to experience the rich culture and culinary talents hosted by the plethora of food vendors stationed across the parklands, offering delicious Italian meals from traditional pizzas to gourmet gnocchi dishes.

A common saying underpinning the festival’s annual success reads “come for the food, and stay for the entertainment”, and when considering the talents the event stages each year, you cannot help but agree.

With artists and musicians including Fortunato, Attori, and Robert Grant featured in 2024’s lineup, attendees also enjoyed performances from the Carina Dancers, a Fire Show produced by the Enigma Crew, and a historical swordplay production by Prima Spada.

With additional free entertainment provided for children, the Australian Italian festival stands as a family friendly event with plenty for all ages to do and see!

The committee made up entirely of volunteers has been busily organising 2025’s event and asks the community to save the date for another spectacular celebration of Italian cultural heritage.

What: Australian Italian Festival
When: Saturday 7 June and Sunday 8 June, 2025
Where: TYTO Parklands, Ingham
More Information: www.australianitalianfestival.com.au

Photo Caption: 2025’s Australian Italian Festival will mark 30 years of celebrations!

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At Council’s main landfill site at Warrens Hill, works are currently underway to remediate one of the solid waste disposal pits known as Cell One.   This pit has recently reached capacity and under Council’s license agreements, this cell is to be capped and made safe to minimise the likelihood of environmental harm.

As landfill cells reach capacity they are to be capped and contoured to minimise surface water impact and mitigate against the regionally high rainfall.   Environmental harm can and does occur when water interacts with buried waste and potentially generate damaging leachate.  This water can come from direct rainfall, runoff or the ground water table impacting the waste.

Generally, the water is prevented from contact with the waste by a combination of impermeable membranes and placement of clay material to isolate the waste.  Further surface profiling is used to minimise and redirect cross land water flow from the Cell.  Where required, pumps are used to maintain the separation of ground water from the waste.

Hinchinbrook Shire Council Mayor Ramon Jayo said capping a landfill is essential for environmental reasons.

“Sealing it means that there is no water penetration, if water were to get in, it rubs with the waste that's buried there, and then it creates the leachate,” he said.

“If that leachate escapes into the environment, it could cause environmental harm.

“Cell one at Warrens Hill Landfill and Resource Recovery Centre has been operating for at least 20 years, and now it has reached its capacity, so under the terms of our license condition, we had to undertake the relevant works.”

The Cell one capping experienced a failure and is currently undergoing remediation works.  The cap failure is the subject of litigation between Council and the designer of the cap.

On Monday 9 December the Hinchinbrook Emergency Service Cadets had their graduation, acknowledging the hard work they have dedicated to the service.

18 Cadets received their end of year graduation certificates marking the completion of the 2024 Program, while one Senior Cadet who is now over 18, graduated the whole program, having been a cadet for the past four years. 

On the night all Cadets graduated the year and some received special awards.

Keldon Fletcher was awarded the Don Prichard memorial Award for the Cadet of Year and Hinchinbrook Shire Council Cadet of Year. Keldon also received the Blue Light - Cadet Volunteer of the Year.

Meanwhile, Keira Erkkila received the Academic Cadet Award. Kingsley Nipper received the cultural support award. Ella Cross graduated from the program having spent 2020 to 2024 with the Hinchinbrook emergency service cadets and is on her way to CQ University next year.

All cadets who attended received recognition for graduating the 2024 Program.

A framed cadet momento was presented to unit coordinator Mark Regazzoli, for his five years in the position.

Hinchinbrook Emergency Service Cadets has been active for five years and coordinator Mark Regazzoli, has been coordinator throughout that time.

Mark said that in order to graduate the cadets must show various attributes.

“We class them on their academic leadership, communication, organisational skills, uniform dress code, conduct and volunteering,” he said.

“Volunteering is a big issue. It's very hard to get good volunteers, so we encourage them to do that.

“Their general conduct during the year, how they perform, how they behave, their respect to leaders and public comes into account as well.

“Every cadet that commits to the program and does the full year of training gets a graduation certificate - to do that they must have attended 95% of the training year.”

Mark is extremely proud of his group and said it was great to see some develop into hard working cadets.
“I have seen some kids here turn up meek, mild and reserved and turn into really open, honest and committed cadets,” added Mark.

Proudly supporting the young minds of the region, the Cardwell RSL has recently awarded high achieving students across select schools within the Hinchinbrook Shire with a warmly welcomed bursary to aid with their transition into secondary education.

Each academic year, the Cardwell RSL kindly asks teachers to present successful and motivated students as notable candidates to receive a bursary to financially support the transition between Year 6 to Year 7.

“We have made this bursary available to three schools we have close connections with, the Cardwell State School, Kennedy State School, and the Murry River Upper State School,” explained Cardwell RSL President Lang Robert.

“The bursaries are awarded to appropriate students the teachers feel are worthy recipients, not necessarily because of academics, but specifically the children who try.”

Noticing the upfront expenses the shift from primary school to high school enrolment presents, members of the Cardwell RSL felt empowered to make a change in the lives of local families and support promising young students. Annually, the Cardwell RSL gifts $2,000 across the three schools as part of their celebrated bursary program, a wonderful initiative made possible by both the surrounding community and the club’s dedicated volunteers.

“The volunteers at the Cardwell RSL who work tirelessly, raised over $1,800, and we have donated this back into the Cardwell district and community,” added Lang.

“We’re just pleased to be able to help these kids out.”

Over the past few weeks Lang and members of the Cardwell RSL have been in attendance of Cardwell State School, Kennedy State School, and the Murry River Upper State School’s end of year assemblies to award students with the bursaries, with many members of the community strongly thanking the club for their support.

“Thank you to the Cardwell RSL for the difference you continue to make in our small community and thank you for your unwavering commitment to helping others,” shared the Cardwell State School.

I am deeply privileged to have been elected as Councillor for a second term by the residents of Hinchinbrook Shire.

It is an honour to continue serving this vibrant community, and I am excited to work closely with all of you over the next four years.

As the Community and Cultural Services Advisory Portfolio Councillor, I look forward to continuing my work with various initiatives and committees, including Art and Culture, “First 5 Forever” program, North Queensland Sports Foundation "Move It" program, Human Social Recovery Sub-Group as Chairperson, Regional Arts Development Fund panel member, Community Activity Grants panel member, Youth Development Advisory Committee, Australia Day Advisory Group, and Taylors Beach Progress Association, just to name a few.

Liveability in our district remains a key focus together, we think it, work it, achieve it.

I am particularly excited about expanding our efforts in fostering a strong sense of community and belonging. Council will continue to promote arts and culture, as these are vital components of a vibrant society that celebrates diversity and creativity. Additionally, I am committed to enhancing our youth development programs, ensuring that the next generation has the tools and opportunities they need to succeed.

Council will also maintain our focus on health and wellbeing initiatives like the "Move It" program, encouraging everyone to stay active and engaged. In the aftermath of recent challenges, our work with the Human Social Recovery Sub-Group will be crucial in ensuring that all community members feel supported and resilient.

Our district's liveability is not just about infrastructure and services, it’s about creating an environment where people feel connected, valued, and empowered to contribute to the community’s growth. I believe that by working together, we can address the challenges we face and turn them into opportunities for innovation and progress.

I’m very excited to be able to submit a column in this newspaper on a rotation with other Councillors, sharing community highlights.

I wish everyone a very Merry Christmas! May your holiday season be filled with joy, love, and special moments with family and friends. I look forward to an amazing 2025 ahead.

Macknade Mill is the oldest continuously operating sugar mill in Australia.
Located on the banks of the Herbert River near Halifax, Macknade commenced crushing in August 1873. 
The Macknade plantation and mill were established by brothers Frank and Arthur Neame, from Kent in England. The Neame brothers sold the sugar venture to Melbourne-based merchants in September 1882 but then reacquired the mill in early 1886. In 1896 the mill was purchased by the Colonial Sugar Company Ltd (CSR) for £6,500. Today, the single milling train factory crushes about 1.4 million tonnes of cane to produce about 125,000 tonnes of raw sugar.

From the comments I receive concerning Council’s waste management practices, it appears that a great portion of the public is not aware of the current legislative arrangements in place, arrangements that Councils are obliged to follow and implement.
All Councils in Queensland are responsible for waste and must comply with the Queensland Waste Management and Resource Recovery Strategy. The strategy, adopted by the Queensland State Government in 2019, provides the framework for Queensland to become a zero-waste society, where waste is avoided, reused and recycled in keeping with the former State Government’s target of zero waste to landfill by 2050.
The strategy is designed to encourage more recycling and re-use of waste rather than simply dumping at landfill. Recyclable material is free to dispose of if properly sorted, whilst waste to landfill is at a cost to you – a cost that will continue to rise as a deterrent in support of changing the community’s attitude towards more recycling and re-use.
Under pinning the strategy is a Waste Levy, that all Councils must pay the State Government for waste disposed to landfill. There is no levy on recyclable material. The levy is currently $94 per tonne.
Fortunately, at this point in time the full cost of waste disposal is yet to be felt by domestic households, as the State, whilst imposing the levy, also refunds an amount attributable to the domestic component of waste. In essence, Council pays the State the levy amount, and the State then reimburses Council for the domestic component. Last financial year, Council paid the state $602,370 in levies and received $333,289 back in rebates.
There is no indication at present as to how long the State will continue to fund the rebate before rate payers have to absorb the full cost of waste disposal.
To lessen the waste levy payments, waste to landfill must be minimised. This means the community must be encouraged to recycle. Many in the community are already doing so, but sadly the majority are not.
Hinchinbrook’s recycling recovery rate stands well below the State average of 179kg, at 72kg, and this therefore necessitates a stricter form of user pay. Community members doing the right thing by recycling should not be penalised by increased community charges through general rates to offset the actions of people that do not recycle.
Council has had to review past initiatives such as the Rural Bulk Disposal Program as same does not encourage people to recycle, and the practice cannot be individually scrutinised in keeping with the intent of the strategy.
The underlying principle is that recyclable material is free to dispose of if properly sorted, whilst waste disposed direct to landfill will cost more and more. You can minimise the cost to yourself and the community by maximising the amount of waste you recycle.
For more information, please visit Council’s website at
www.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au/water-waste-and-roads/waste-and-recycling.

As planting and spraying operations increase across Queensland this summer, all chemical users are reminded of their responsibility to minimise spray drift and protect surrounding areas.

Key tips for responsible spraying include checking weather conditions, using appropriate equipment, keeping detailed spray application records and communicating with neighbours about nearby crops that may be at risk.

DPI and Cotton Australia are partnering to promote best practices, including reading chemical labels carefully to ensure products reach their intended targets.

They also encourage sprayers to connect with neighbours to identify susceptible crops and coordinate activities.

Michael Reid, General Manager of Plant Biosecurity and Product Integrity at the Department of Primary Industries (DPI) emphasised the importance of timing and monitoring conditions.

“The best time to spray is during light, steady breezes and moderate temperatures.

“Avoid spraying on windy days or during thermal inversions.

“If conditions aren’t suitable, postponing is often the safest choice,” Mr. Reid said.

Michael Murray, General Manager of Cotton Australia, highlighted the importance of monitoring inversion conditions using the Weather and Networked Data (WAND) towers, particularly for growers in Southern and Central Queensland.

“Inversion conditions, which increase spray drift risks, are common during summer evenings and nights.

“We urge growers to check the WAND site at www.wand.com.au, which is accessible on mobile devices,” Mr. Murray said.

Factors such as weather, droplet size, boom height, travel speed, and application method all influence the likelihood of spray drift.

To comply with the Chemical Usage (Agricultural & Veterinary) Control Regulation 1988, users must also measure and record weather conditions at the application site.

For more information about using agricultural chemicals safely and effectively in Queensland, including record-keeping requirements, contact the DPI on 13 25 23.

Tips for spraying correctly
   • Keep your knowledge of application methods up to date. Attend equipment manufacturer or product manufacturer field days when these are organised in your area.
   • Read the agricultural chemical product label and follow the instructions accurately. Many products have specific spray drift management instructions dealing with optimal weather conditions and spray equipment.
   • If you don't understand a label instruction, ask someone who does before commencing the application. Product labels provide contact details of the manufacturer who can provide reliable technical advice to assist you if necessary.
   • If you're not sure about what you're doing, consider engaging a professional contractor.

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Simon Hood
Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing
As the 2024 season draws to a close, we would like to thank all growers who chose to market their GEI sugar exposure with Wilmar. We look forward to providing you with the same high level of service and superior financial outcomes next year.
The Grower Marketing team met in Townsville recently for a two-day workshop to review our achievements in 2024 and plan for success in 2025. A key theme was the passion the team has for our growers, the industry and our communities.
During the workshop, we discussed the results of our recent grower survey and how we can continue to provide a superior service to existing Wilmar marketing growers and other growers as well. I would like to thank all of the growers who completed this survey as the data and insights have been invaluable to the marketing team and Wilmar Sugar and Renewables in general.
We took some time out of our workshop to present a donation to Food Relief NQ, which was one of the charities nominated by survey participants. The team also spent two hours packing 250 hampers to help local families struggling with the cost of living this Christmas. We will be making similar donations to Ronald McDonald House and CQ Rescue.
With the end of the 2024 production season in sight, we know there is a lot of work still to be done. Our Grower Marketing consultants have been reviewing pricing commitments for your business and will be reaching out over the coming month to assist with the final wash up of the season. If you have any queries or concerns, please reach out to your local consultant to discuss your options.
From myself and the team, we hope you have a well-deserved break over the Christmas period and get to spend quality time with your family and friends.

The 2024 Shop & Win The Hinchinbrook Way promotion will come to a conclusion when the prize draw takes place in the Hinchinbrook Shire Council foyer, during late night shopping this coming Thursday.  This year’s campaign, designed to encourage residents and visitors, to support all local businesses within the 4850 postcode and especially focusses on the Christmas shopping period.  

This years’ promotion has built on the success of the inaugural “Shop and Win in Hinchinbrook 2023” campaign and has been made possible through the very generous continued support of the major sponsors - Hinchinbrook Shire Council, Powerlink Queensland, Windlab (Gawara Baya) and Mobbs Marr Legal.  The combination of this financial sponsorship and complementary support, provided by many local businesses, will result in this year’s prize allocation worth over $16,000.

This year has seen a substantial increase in participation from the community, evidenced through the massive volume of receipts lodged in the collection boxes that are more than double in numbers from last year. The business community have been very proactive in promoting the campaign and raising awareness and are reporting a noticeable increase in community participation.

In addition to the project management of the overall promotion, Hinchinbrook Chamber has incorporated a comprehensive marketing campaign via social media and radio, with the assistance from Hinchinbrook Shire Council managing the printed media promotion.    

With a substantial prize pool, 15 different prize baskets have been created for the winners; with prizes ranging from Gift Vouchers from local businesses, children’s toys and many other gift lines.  The drawing of the winners will take place during the final Late-Night Shopping event in the CBD on Thursday 19th December 2024 at 6:00pm in the Council foyer.

Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR) says it has successfully challenged Wilmar Sugar to extend its crush end date for Herbert region mills giving more farmers a chance to minimise standover cane.
The QCAR Herbert River team met with Wilmar management at the Victoria Mill on Thursday (December 5) to contest a notice to growers advising the Herbert mills’ expected finish time and date would be 6pm Tuesday, 17 December.
QCAR Herbert District Chairman Matthew Pappin had argued Wilmar’s notice was invalid as the miller did not first consult with QCAR and it had not given 10 business days’ notice – both conditions outlined in QCAR’s Cane Supply Agreement (CSA).
Mr Pappin said the 17 December date had risked farmers being unable to push through the district’s remaining 270,000-odd tonnes of cane.
“There’s a lot of farmers out there, if the weather does fine up, that can remove more or potentially all of their crop,” Mr Pappin said.
QCAR Herbert River District Manager Lawrence Di Bella said Wilmar, in adhering to QCAR’s CSA, agreed in principle during the meeting to move its crush cut-off time for QCAR members to midnight on 19 December.
“We estimated the Hinchinbrook community, excluding the milling sector, stood to lose about $22.8 million if we don’t harvest the remaining cane.
“Both QCAR and Wilmar have agreed to be flexible in extending the finishing date further pending weather and cane supply to allow all growers to harvest cane.
“Wilmar has also indicated it is prepared to keep mills open as long as possible to let growers supply cane pending its quality and commercial viability.
“Under the QCAR CSA, farmers can supply cane between 6 to 7 units with payments being made from Wilmar.
“Cane less than 7 CCS units ‘Shall be determined by the Mill Owner for use in the Adjustment Payment at the end of the Crushing Season and subsequent cane payments for the Relevant Season’.”
The average CCS for cane crushed at Wilmar’s Macknade and Victoria mills was 11.58 CCS for the week ending November 30 compared to the season to date average of 12.47 CCS.
Mr Di Bella said QCAR would be asking harvesters, in support of Wilmar’s requests, to raise base cutters out of the mud as much as possible and to increase harvester fan speeds to reduce dirt and trash going through the mills, help maintain throughput and give the industry the best chance to get the 2024 crop off.
“Growers are urged to liaise with their harvesting contractor as soon as possible, and for the contractors to contact the mill if they believe they can supply cane,” Mr Di Bella said.
He said QCAR also discussed with Wilmar a harvester ‘buddy system’ “where-by harvesters can work together to get cane off.
“QCAR has agreed that to make this work contractors will need to contact Wilmar CS&T Manager Chris Winship in writing to seek approvals and will need to nominate days in which the buddy system will occur; this is to allow for bins to be scheduled accordingly,” Mr Di Bella said.
He added both QCAR and Wilmar were committed to giving every grower the best opportunity to harvest remaining crops, adding Wilmar advised it intended, at this stage, to supply 100 per cent of contracted cane.
Mr Pappin said farmers prior to the meeting, some of whom still had 30 per cent of their cane in the paddock, had told QCAR they were anxious wet weather could leave them just days to harvest.
“Personally, I’ve got 10 per cent left in the paddock, that’s the little bit of cream on the top at the end of the season that makes your total tonnes, cleans up your farm, allows you to get your fallows done properly,” Mr Pappin said.
He said longer crushes could create difficult circumstances for farmers including flooding of plant cane, trash from freshly cut ratoons smothering crops, and no time to do earthworks and other tasks.
Mr Pappin said the 2024 season had been disappointing with Wilmar delaying the season start after siding with Canegrowers, followed by further interruptions from mill breakdowns and union strikes.
He said farmers were also frustrated about Herbert’s equity system, disparities between harvesting times, and Wilmar’s struggle to process a total tonnage significantly lower than previous years.
“We had just under three million tonnes crushed in December, we should have finished four million tonnes by the middle of November,” QCAR Herbert River member Luciano Mammarella said.
“It’s just not good enough … and it’s the same old excuses (from Wilmar).
“Their attitude is when it’s breaks, they fix it but that’s the wrong attitude. My opinion is that it’s like the dog that chases its own tail.”
Mr Mammarella said he would like to see contracts introduce set finishing dates with consequences for breaching these.
Mr Di Bella said it would be a “challenge in some areas” to get cane off before Christmas, citing recent rainfall totals of up to 500mm in parts of the district over the past 2 weeks.
He said 2024 was the fourth year running Wilmar had declined requests to start the crush at the start of June.
If we would have started on the 4th June, as QCAR requested and Canegrowers Herbert River opposed, we would not be in this situation we are now,” he said, adding the mid-June start stemmed from the existing CSA Canegrowers had in place.
“The QCAR CSA does not have a fixed date in it, allowing us the flexibility to start when we have the best opportunity to get our crop off,” Mr Di Bella said.
For more information concerning discussions that took place please between QCAR and Wilmar, contact Mr Di Bella on 0448 084 252.

The festive season, while joyous for many, can bring unique challenges for families navigating financial and emotional pressures. For those in need, help is just a phone call away. Families experiencing difficulties with relationships, budgeting, housing, or other concerns are encouraged to contact Family and Child Connect at 13FAMILY (13 32 64) for advice and support.

This community-based service aims to keep children safe and families together by connecting them to the right resources at the right time. Whether you need guidance on managing child behaviour, building healthier family relationships, budgeting, or addressing housing and healthcare concerns, Family and Child Connect can help.

The service also works closely with families to determine the type and level of support needed, offering connections to more intensive programs if necessary, with domestic and family violence specialists also available for consultation.

In addition to phone support, Family and Child Connect can arrange face-to-face meetings at home or another safe location. Referrals can also be made online via https://familysupportreferral.org.au.

If you or someone you know could benefit from this support, don’t hesitate to reach out and contact 13FAMILY (13 32 64) to access help.

For four and a half years the team at Bakehouse on Central has been cooking up treats, and at this time of year their delicious Fruit Cake and delectable Christmas Puddings are extremely popular.

Both items are available now and throughout the festive period, as well as plenty of fresh bread, and other Christmas goodies.

In fact, Bakehouse on Central is now taking orders for anything you might need for your Christmas parties and gatherings. From sweet treats including Italian Biscuits, Crostoli, Gingerbread Biscuits, Christmas decorated Iced Cupcakes and more.

In addition, for the first time, this year Bakehouse on Central is offering a new dessert option for your Christmas lunch. Indulge in a refreshing Cassata, a frozen ice-cream dessert, that spreads Christmas cheer inside and out, and best of all it makes the dessert at Christmas lunch easy.

Co-owner of Bakehouse on Central, Serra Previtera said she loves Christmas especially the family time.

“We come from a traditional Sicilian background, and all of our family are here, so we are very lucky to have a big Christmas family gathering,” she said.

“Getting together and eating lots of traditional food, plus keeping that tradition alive – is my favourite part.”

Bakehouse on Central also have a loyalty program for customers, for every seven coffees you buy, you receive one for free, and it’s the same for loaves of Café sized bread.

Open in the build-up to Christmas, Bakehouse on Central is then closed from Wednesday 25th December and will reopen Monday 13th January.

The team at Bakehouse on Central wish all Hinchinbrook residents and loyal customers a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. 

Halifax Meats has been owned and operated by the Edmonds family for 15 years, and for the last few years David and his brother Paul, have been running the popular local butchery.

Becoming a butcher was something David always wanted to be and the profession is part of a long-standing family tradition.

“I'm fourth generation, so it's just in the family,” said David.

“I think I have always had a passion for meat. Growing up in and around butcher shops I was working in them every school holidays and it just becomes part of your life.”

One of the reasons David loves being a butcher at Halifax Meats is because he is able to work side by side with his family every day.

“The main thing for me, is I get to work with my brother every day,” he said.

“We are a family shop and that’s what makes us who we are.”

You will recognise Halifax Butchers by the colourful mural that adorns the external wall and can be seen from the street.

“We have a mural on front of the shop, and when we needed to update a few things, we decided to add even more colour!” shared David.

“My kids love Bluey, and I thought a mural was something fun and interactive.

“The kids love it and in the tourist season, we love that people stop to say G’day and take a few photos out front”

Serving the small Halifax community is something that is also very important to David.

“There are a lot of good people in the town,” he said.

“In a small town, it's great because we have a really good sense of community here, so customer service is important to us.”

After completing his internship in 2014, Andrew Giliberto jumped at the opportunity to become the owner of Hinchinbrook Community Pharmacy in Halifax, a position he has occupied since April 2015.

Progressing immediately from an internship to pharmacy owner was a big step for Andrew, but
his prior work experience allowed him to move into the new role with ease.

“When I originally took over, I was fresh out of my internship, so it was a bit of a
shock to the system!” said Andrew.

“I had worked here before, so I knew the previous owner and quite a few of the local people
Which made the transition a lot easier.

“I was already familiar with the daily processes and all that kind of stuff.”

Andrew thoroughly enjoys being a pharmacist, and says the best part is having one-
on-one interactions with customers and forming meaningful relationships.

“I get to know my patients a lot better than I would if I were in bigger cities,” said
Andrew.

“It is good to be back in my hometown too and it’s great to be able to give back to the
community in that way.

“I have found that regional towns have a different kind of atmosphere as
opposed to working in cities.”

Whether you’re looking for all your essentials from prescription medications, cold and flu remedies, through to hair and beauty products, and giftware, Hinchinbrook Community Pharmacy has what you need.

The Ingham Lions Club was founded in December 1961, and chartered successfully in March 1962, providing over 50 years of dedicated volunteer work for the Ingham community.

The Ingham Lions Club are known in the area for their community service work, most recently they were approached by Our Lady of Lourdes Primary School Ingham to sell some hot chips for charity and President Colin Dallavanzi said it went extremely well.

“There was lots of people and kids there, it was good to hop in and sell chips,” said Colin.

“We can make some money out of it, and then we give it back to the community later.”

Colin said that the money they raise they donate to non-for-profit organisations but they have also recently donated to the local hospital, and Colin enjoys the feeling of giving back to the community.

“It’s a good feeling when these recipients receive that amount of money, or the funding to purchase what they need, or have been able to get funds to assist their non-for-profit organisation to continue.”

The Ingham Lions Club currently have 40 members and current President Colin Dallavanzi has been in his position for three terms now, but he says presidency is shared amongst members.

“We change over as much as possible to give everyone some experience in leadership,” said Colin.

“It can break down those barriers of the fear of talking in front of people.

“We don't personally teach public speaking as a course but you develop those skills through chairing a project, in becoming a secretary or treasurer or a president.”

The Ingham Lions Club is always on the lookout for more volunteers, if helping the community is something you find inspiring and want to be apart of, contact them, or chat with the friendly Lions at the next community event.

After an extraordinary 15-year career at the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre (HCSC), Marilyn Pavetto is retiring, leaving behind a legacy of compassion and dedication that has profoundly shaped our community. Marilyn began her journey in disaster recovery in 2009, providing critical support to families during and post crisis. She then worked as a counsellor and rolled out and delivered a suicide prevention program into the community, educating over 700 locals on how to save their friends and families lives.
Her passion for uplifting others eventually led her to focus on social inclusion for the elderly, a role in which she truly found her calling. Over the years, Marilyn has become a champion for senior citizens, creating programs that foster connection and belonging. From intergenerational projects to information sharing and good old fashioned morning teas, her efforts have empowered older adults to live fulfilling and engaged lives.
Her colleagues praise her as a "tireless advocate and a true inspiration," and the countless lives she’s touched are a testament to her dedication. CEO Linda McClelland praises Marilyn for her dedication and commitment to the organisation and for being a fierce advocate for the aged.
“I will miss Marilyn in the workplace, but her efforts will not be forgotten,” she said.
As Marilyn moves into retirement, HCSC celebrates her incredible achievements and wishes her joy and relaxation in this next chapter. Thank you, Marilyn, for your remarkable service!
Contributed with thanks to the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre.

A camera happy croc was snapped lazing about on a bank at Sunday Creek over the weekend, with many locals reminded of the need to be Crocwise when in croc country these Christmas holidays.

Captured by the Lucinda Fishing Lodge, many believe the crocodile frequents the area, with similar sightings dating back to 2009. Although its common to spot a reptile or two in the area, boaters can never be too cautious when venturing into croc country.

As advised by the Queensland Government, there are a few simple steps boaters can take to be Crocwise including keeping out of the water, staying at least five meters away from the water’s edge, and keeping a sturdy object between yourself and the water.

Additional tips include avoiding entering the water in the same location twice, exercise extra caution at night, dusk and dawn, dispose of scraps in bins rather than into the water or around boat ramps, and keep clear of areas exhibiting slide marks, tracks and other signs of nesting.

Stay aware and choose safe behaviours around the water in croc country these holidays, and year-round to enjoy waterways safety.

With the Christmas and New Year holiday period almost with us, the volunteers at Ingham Coast Guard would like to wish all boaties a happy and safe time on the water.

Whenever the region experiences an exceptionally low tide, the Ingham Coast Guard often sends a drone up to photograph the exit from the Enterprise Channel at Dungeness. The sand here is continuously moving and has covered up the previous channels through the sand bar that once existed.

The Ingham Coast Guard would like to advise there is now NO channel through the sand bar. All boaties are urged to ensure they have sufficient water under their keel before attempting to cross the bar. A general rule of thumb is that whatever the tide chart says at a given time, there is half that on the bar.

This year-to-date Ingham Coast Guard has been called out 31 times and has rescued 91 people. Please stay safe on the water.

Contributed with thanks to Steve Whipps, Commander, QF14 Ingham Coast Guard.

Lifesavers at Forrest Beach are urging residents and visitors to remain vigilant after netting six box jellyfish outside the stinger net enclosure on Sunday 15 December. The lifesavers also conducted precautionary drags inside the stinger net, with no jellyfish detected.

With hot, calm weather and plenty of bait fish close to shore, conditions were ideal for box jellyfish, which were found in shallow waters. Lifesavers are reminding everyone to take stinger season seriously and follow key safety measures to reduce the risk of stings.

Safety Reminders for Beachgoers
   • Always swim inside the stinger net.
   • Wear a stinger suit for extra protection.
   • Avoid touching the sides of the net.
   • Boaters should exercise caution when launching boats at the ramp.

In the event of a sting, douse the affected area with vinegar for at least 30 seconds, carefully remove any tentacles, and seek medical attention. For severe stings outside patrolling hours, call Triple Zero for an ambulance.

Lifesaver Patrol Hours
While there are no weekday lifeguards during the school holidays, Forrest Beach's dedicated volunteer lifesavers are extending their patrols:
   • Saturdays: 1pm - 6pm.
   • Sundays: 9am - 6pm.
   • Public Holidays: 9am - 6pm.

Box jellyfish stings can be life-threatening, but with the right precautions, everyone can stay safe. For more information on stinger safety, visit lifesaving.com.au.

Almost 150 people attended the official launch of Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper last week, the event marking a moment in history, with the Premier of Queensland David Crisafulli accepting an invitation to formally welcome the newspaper into the community.

QLD Premier Attends Newspaper’s Official Launch

Originally from Ingham, the Premier began his working career in the early 2000’s as a cadet journalist for the Herbert River Express.

This much-loved local newspaper printed its final publication in 2020, the closure of 14 regional newspapers in Queensland marked 124 years of history coming to an end for the Hinchinbrook region.

As such, the reigniting of a community newspaper dedicated to local news has come with much support from the Hinchinbrook Shire Council, Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Tourism, the business community and residents of the Shire.

Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper printed its first run on Tuesday 26th February and will print 3000 copies every week.

Publishing each Tuesday, the newspaper is available from more than 15 distribution stands and 50 pick-points throughout Ingham, surrounding townships, north to Cardwell and South to Rollingstone.

On the evening of Wednesday, 4th December, the community had the opportunity to celebrate the official launch of the paper at the Herbert River Sub-Branch RSL Club in Ingham.

The night began with a presentation by Editor in Chief of Life Publishing Group, Rachael Smith, and followed by a moving speech by Mayor Ramon Jayo who publicly acknowledged the value of the newspaper and voiced his support.

Member for Hinchinbrook Nick Dametto also spoke on the evening, complementing the newspaper on all the dealings he’d had with staff so far, expressing his gratitude and confirming his support.

The guest of honour, Premier of Queensland David Crisafulli attended the event with his wife Tegan, mum Karen, father Tony, sister Belinda and family.

Upon arrival he spent some time speaking with the many people that gathered around, treating each person with respect and courtesy.

When he took to the stage, David shared a story about the value of local newspapers stating that the biggest lesson had come from his father who had reminded him that it is the small communities that miss local newspapers the most.

He shared that it is for this reason, along with his long-standing love for regional newspapers and his affinity for his own hometown, that he accepted the invitation to attend the Official Launch.

The evening concluded with the Premier taking the time to speak to many others in the room, accepting invitations to be part of photos and graciously talking with countless attendees.

Hi Everyone,

What a week it has been!

I’m sure many of you will know already that Queensland Premier David Crisafulli came to town last week as the guest of honour at the official launch of Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper.

It was an absolute honour to have him at our launch at the Herbert River Sub Branch RSL in Ingham. David and his team are extremely kind and professional.

As I am still settling into Hinchinbrook, I find it wonderful that the community continue to approach me with story ideas.

This week, at the Launch of the paper, I was told about the mural painted on the side of the Hinchinbrook Community Pharmacy wall. The very next day, I met Andrew (who owns the pharmacy), and he told me the story behind it, and it was fascinating.

Please keep contacting me about any stories you think the community would like to know. It’s these stories that the community want to hear, and I thoroughly enjoy sharing them with everyone.

Whenever I am out and about, I am thrilled to hear everyone’s praise for the paper, knowing that the community not only values the hard work myself and the team are putting in, but also love the paper. It means a lot to us.

Quote of the week

“Sometimes you are aware when your great moments are happening, and sometimes they rise from the past. Perhaps it's the same with people.”
(James Salter, Burning the Days)

For almost 60 years the Taylors Beach community has gathered together for the installation of the Taylors Beach Stinger Net.

The installation and removal has been an annual community event and has now become a community tradition.

President of the Taylors Beach Stinger Net Association Inc. Greg Sexton said this year’s stinger net was put up in mid-November and the net has a deep history.

“The Taylors Beach net started life in the 1960's and was recognised formally by Council in the late 1990's,” said Greg.

“A family got together with locals, and they decided where they wanted to put a net for kids to swim in.

“The first net was quite a primitive affair, there's no doubt about it, it had wooden posts and slats.

“Later steel railway tracks were driven into the sand, and the net was hung off that, and they made it a little bit better. And then one time I was over in UK, I came back and somebody put in some nice concrete posting with PVC tubes over and that's what I look after now.”

Greg also said that the Hinchinbrook Shire Council support them throughout the year which is greatly appreciated.

Additionally, the Taylors Beach community has come together once more to donate $20 towards the upkeep of the net, and Greg is appreciative of that ongoing gesture.

The Taylors Beach net encloses an area 25 metres by 50 metres with two sets of stairs over a rock wall to enter the swimming area.

Hinchinbrook Shire Council is delighted to announce the arrival of nesting Green and Flatback Turtles along the pristine shorelines this season. These remarkable marine creatures are laying their clutches of eggs between November and January, with hatchlings expected to emerge from January to April.

Green Turtles typically lay around 50 eggs per clutch, while Flatback Turtles lay closer to 100. Many turtles nest multiple times a season, and their hatchlings begin a courageous journey to the sea, returning decades later to continue the cycle.

During nesting and hatchling season it’s important to reduce our use of artificial light on the shoreline. Hatchlings use the moonlight and starlight to navigate themselves towards the ocean, which means artificial light can confuse them and they may end up in land.

In addition, nesting turtles prefer beaches with no artificial light, the use of the light can deter them from nesting at their desired beach.

Council is calling on the community to assist in identifying nesting locations and turtle tracks. By reporting sightings or evidence of nesting, such as tracks, residents play a vital role in enabling Council to manage and monitor these sites for the duration of the nesting season.

Nesting sites, including those identified near Lucinda Beach, are fragile ecosystems. Council reminds residents and visitors that activities such as driving or misuse of beaches can crush turtle nests, damage vegetation that protects dunes, and exacerbate erosion. Prohibited behaviours may result in penalties under various legislations.

To report nesting sea turtle sites, please contact Council on 4776 4800 or send a photo of a nest and tracks to council@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au.

Your support helps protect these magnificent creatures and ensures their legacy for future generations.

Understanding nesting patterns is crucial for:

• Contributing to the conservation of turtle populations within the Great Barrier Reef and globally

• Strengthening funding applications for initiatives like the Hinchinbrook Community Feral Pig Management Program, as feral pigs are known predators of turtle eggs

• Enhancing Hinchinbrook's wilderness appeal, drawing visitors to experience its natural beauty.

Opinion Piece.
As a proud Australian of a multi-cultural nation, I believe it’s important to celebrate where we’ve come from while embracing the values of our country. It’s been disappointing to see the growing trend of corporations and groups using their influence to push people away from celebrating Australia Day—one of the most important dates on our national calendar.
Not celebrating all things Australian on the designated day sounds un-Australian to me. In recent years, the minority voices have tried to shame Australians for celebrating our heritage. Our country and forebearers are not without fault and it’s understandable some may have negative feelings towards our past, but at some stage we must find a way to move forward.
Australia Day is more than just a date, it’s an opportunity to be embrace all that it means to be Australian, what it means to be a resilient, strong and united country.
It’s a time to reflect, to celebrate the people and the achievements that make this country great, and to acknowledge both the triumphs and the challenges that we have collectively faced.
We are a great sporting nation; we are a nation with a proud military history, and we are home to some of the world’s most brilliant minds. Although we are a young nation comparatively, we have a rich multicultural background that can be interwoven with our Indigenous peoples story to create what is modern day Australia.
Bowing to cancel culture by trying to erase Australia Day doesn’t fix anything—it only divides us further. We should be finding ways to unite our nation while instilling national pride in our flag, anthem and country.
This January 26, I encourage every Aussie to find a way to come together with family and friends, to celebrate what it means to live in the lucky country, a country free from war, conflict or imminent treat, a country where everyone is afforded opportunity and free will.
If you choose not to mark the day, that’s your choice—that’s the beauty of living in a free country. But no one has the right to tell us to stop celebrating what the majority love about Australia.
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Nick Dametto MP
Member for Hinchinbrook

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A celebrated tradition across the region, the annual Ingham Catholic Debutante Ball will make its return in 2025 on the evening of Saturday 31 May at the Hinchinbrook Shire Hall in the presence of the Bishop of Townsville, Bishop Timothy Harris.

The Ingham Catholic Debutante Ball stands as the only remaining debutante ball in the Hinchinbrook area and exists as a wonderful celebration of young ladies in Year 11 of any denomination or school to make their official debut.

With a rich history in the region, the ball provides both debutants and their families with the opportunity to uphold generations of tradition through learning classic dances and celebrating community spirit.

As organised by Gilroy Santa Maria College, all interested students are encouraged to pre-register by emailing c58.cathdeb@gilroysm.catholic.edu.au to stay informed on all updates and upcoming news.

2025 debutants are kindly asked to provide their name, parent’s or guardian’s name, mobile number and email address when pre-registering and to join the Facebook page titled 2025 Ingham Catholic Debutante Ball.

An information evening will be held on Sunday 9 February 2025 at Mercy Hall on Abbott Street, Ingham with dance rehearsals set to be held each Monday night in preparation for the May event.

The Gilroy Santa Maria College hopes to host another wonderful debutante ball in 2025, to continue celebrating and upholding the traditions of the Hinchinbrook community.

What: Ingham Catholic Debutante Ball
When: Saturday 31 May, 6pm
Where: Hinchinbrook Shire Hall
More Information: Contact Gilroy Santa Maria College on 4776 2888

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As a Local Government Councillor for the Hinchinbrook Shire, I am dedicated to enhancing our community's environmental sustainability through effective waste management and recycling initiatives.

One of our recent accomplishments is the installation of Containers for Change Pay-it-Forward (PIF) stations at Rotary Park and various other parks throughout the Shire. These stations are designed to streamline the recycling process and encourage residents to actively participate in reducing waste.

Council recognises the importance of proper waste disposal, and I urge those who collect recyclables to ensure they are emptied before being placed in the recycling bins. This small step can significantly improve the quality of our recycling efforts and help us achieve our environmental goals. Remember, every effort counts when it comes to protecting our beautiful surroundings.

I also want to remind our residents about the availability of two vouchers per household for free disposal of domestic general waste and free dumping of domestically sourced green waste.

These vouchers allow you to take your sorted waste to designated facilities, ensuring that recyclable materials are separated from general refuse. Proper sorting not only helps in minimising landfill contributions but also promotes a more sustainable community.

As we approach the festive season, it’s essential to stay mindful of our waste habits. With gatherings and celebrations, we can easily generate more waste. I encourage everyone to think about their recycling practices during this time. Let’s work together to keep our Shire clean and green!

In closing, I wish all residents a safe and joyous holiday season surrounded by family and friends. May your Christmas be filled with happiness and the spirit of giving. Thank you for your ongoing commitment to making Hinchinbrook a better place for everyone.
Together, we can create a healthier environment for generations to come.

The historic Gairloch Bridge, opened for traffic on 4 November 1891, holds a unique place in Australia’s engineering heritage. Designed by Alfred Barton Brady, it was the first submersible road bridge of its kind in the country. Submersible bridges, built lower than traditional flood-level bridges, were a cost-effective solution to crossing waterways in flood-prone areas.
Brady's innovative design minimised obstructions to floodwaters and the debris they carry, ensuring durability and functionality even during major floods. Remarkably, the Gairloch Bridge is the only known road bridge of this design constructed in 19th-century Australia. It remains a testament to resourceful engineering in an era that prioritised practical solutions to challenging environments.

I am often asked about what powers the Mayor has, so I thought I might take the opportunity to explain a Councillor’s role.
Councillors (who include the Mayor and Councillors), do not have any authority to act or make decisions as individuals. They are members of an elected body collectively called ‘the Council’ that makes decisions on behalf of a Local Government through a formal meeting process.
Councillors are responsible for strategic vision and planning for the Local Government area to deliver outcomes for the community.
Councillors are not responsible for the day-to-day administration of Council, operational matters or overseeing the works done by Local Government employees. These functions are the responsibility of Council’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
A Councillor cannot direct a Local Government employee to do anything.  However, the Mayor has the authority to direct the CEO in accordance with Council policies and decisions.
The role of each Councillor is to:
   • Represent the current and future interests of residents;
   • Provide leadership and guidance to the community;
   • Facilitate two-way communication between the community and Council officers and employees; and
   • Participate in decision making processes at meetings.
Councillors represent the community’s interests in many ways. They can pass on an elector’s views, support initiatives and report complaints and problems they perceive, by informing the CEO or raising such matters in Council meetings.
People often look to their elected representatives to provide leadership and guidance. This can be done by highlighting directions that could be followed, putting forward options, and presenting arguments or possible solutions to a problem at community forums and Council meetings.
To initiate new policies and activities successfully, a Councillor will often need to gather information and obtain advice. This may be achieved through the Council staff, following an approach to the CEO. Councillors may approach other Senior Executive staff as authorised by the CEO in accordance with the CEO’s guidelines.
However, it should be remembered that while a policy may begin with an individual idea, decisions are not made by the individual Councillor alone. They are made by the whole Council.
The democratic process stipulates that a Councillor must accept the majority decision when the Council votes upon a motion. Consequently, if a Councillor feels strongly about an issue, and does not have a conflict of interest in the matter, he or she should present a well constructed and researched argument during the debate of the motion. If the result of the vote is against the wishes of an individual Councillor, he or she should accept that result graciously. Each Councillor has the right to have their dissent recorded in the minutes.
Councillors have a duty to attend Council meetings to ensure that electors are adequately represented. In recognition of this, under the Local Government Act 2009 a Councillor who is absent from two consecutive ordinary Council meetings without leave being granted by the Council, is automatically disqualified.

Hi everyone! We may have chatted together already, but if not, I’ll introduce myself.
I’m Chelsea Ravizza, and I have been helping Daniel here and there to bring you this wonderful free newspaper for the past few weeks. It has been an absolute pleasure hearing your stories and publishing the news of the Hinchinbrook region.
I’ve spent just about half my life living in Townsville, and the later half living in the Burdekin after my family moved to Ayr just before I began high school. For the past few years, however, I’ve been living in Brisbane while completing a Bachelor of Communication and Journalism at Griffith University.
Actually, today, Tuesday 10 December, is my graduation day, and if you’re reading this at around 10am, I’ll be taking a stroll across the stage at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre in South Bank… how exciting!
Although I have been living in Brisbane, I have been writing for the Burdekin Life Newspaper for just over 12 months now after completing a university placement period in October of 2023.
I’ve loved sharing community focused news stories since before I even began my studies and have always had a passion for writing and journalism since I was very young after watching movies like The Devil Wears Prada and Confessions of a Shopaholic with my Mum!
This week I’ll be braving the journey and driving up from Brisbane back to the Burdekin, and you’ll certainly see me pop up to Hinchinbrook to say hello! I can’t wait to keep meeting you all, and please feel free to reach out and send me an email, chelsea@lifepublishinggroup.com.

Steven Devietti is a true local and was born and bred in Ingham where he has owned Ingham Tyre Centre for nine years now.

When Steven completed a mechanical automotive apprenticeship, it sparked his interest in the automotive industry.

Inspired to pursue a career, he purchased the old Goodyear tyre service store, recuing it from liquidation in December 2015.

Steven said it was quite challenging getting the store up and running again.

“This business was shut for three months, and it was in the middle of cane season, so it was a tough start,” said Steven.

“But since then, we built it up and now everything's going well.

When Steven took over the store, it was Goodyear but has rebranded earlier this month and is proudly Tyrepower.

He made the decision to swap networks for several reasons.

“The Goodyear Autocare Program had changed quite significantly, where they no longer distributed their own tyres,” explained Steven.

“The opportunity presented itself that I could change to a Tyrepower and Tyrepower is the biggest independent tyre network in Australia, and I wanted to become one of them.”

Tyrepower Ingham supply a range of services to the community, including new tyres for every piece of equipment, and service work.

“In our service work we go out in the field,” said Steven.

“We go out to farms and do tyre changes for customers.

“The best thing is talking to people and giving people the best service we can.

“I want to keep serving the community the best we can.”

Welcome to the first Ingham Police Report in our new Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper, the Police Report will be a monthly feature covering matters of interest to our great community.

The Hinchinbrook Shire has two police stations, Ingham which is staffed 24/7 and is responsible for Ingham, Trebonne and all areas west, Toobanna and south to Bambaroo, Forrest Beach and locations north to the Cardwell Range. As well as uniformed officers Ingham also has a permanent Criminal Investigation Branch and Highway Patrol Officers.  Ingham Station office hours are 8am-4pm Monday to Friday, during these times you can contact the station directly on 07 4776 9777 and wait until the end of the recorded information to speak to an officer.

Halifax Station covers, Halifax, Lucinda, Taylors Beach, and all other locations in the Lower Herbert area and is assisted in responses and 24hour coverage by Ingham Station.  

We are fortunate in our area to enjoy a relatively low crime rate and a generally stable population base. We have in recent times however been targeted by offenders travelling to Ingham and surrounding areas in stolen vehicles, as recently as last weekend there were several houses broken into and cars stolen.  These crime sprees happen very fast, consist of a group of criminals randomly targeting addresses and stealing vehicles, the cars are then driven straight back to Townsville where they are often abandoned shortly after. This causes a significant impact on victims in terms of financial loss, inconvenience and upheaval, and a feeling of being unsafe in their own homes. We often catch these criminals and recover the vehicles but the impact on victims is still there.

Please keep doing everything you can to make your home and vehicles less of a target, lock your homes and cars especially at night, be vigilant to unusual vehicles and persons in your neighbourhoods and keep an eye out on each other.

Police continue to perform regular patrols of the Hinchinbrook Shire at all hours of the day and night, but we rely on information from members of the public to prevent and solve crimes, so keep us up to date with what is going on to make our community a great place to live.  

Remember if you have any information regarding criminal activity, please contact your local police on 07 4776 9777, Policelink 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

If something is happening that requires immediate Police attention contact 000

Contributed with thanks to Geoff Bormann Senior Sergeant | Officer in Charge | Ingham Police Station

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selectability is a not-for-profit charity with the primary focus of improving the mental wellbeing of regional Queenslanders and contributing to suicide prevention.

It has been operating for over 40 years and for four years in Ingham.

Julie Ross is the Regional Coordinator of selectability Ingham her role is to manage the current services that selectability provide to the Ingham community, and see what is missing and how we can implement services to suit.

“There is a waitlist for services like Allied Health and this can see us making several trips to support our consumers to Townsville due to the wait to see someone locally, and that’s if that service is available within Ingham,” said Julie

“We have a lot of people on the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) that are not actually utilising their plans, which can mean that they are not receiving the support that they are funded to access.”

Julie advised that the number of NDIS plans for residents in Ingham recorded from the NDS (National Disability Services) compared to the amount of people utilising their plans means that a lot of community members are going without supports. selectabiliity Ingham proudly have their own Clubhouse, that anybody can access.

“Clubhouse offers a safe space for our community members to come in and understand there is no stigma about mental health here,” said Julie.

“This is your place where you can openly talk about your struggles, and people are going to listen. All of our consumers and staff are really supportive.”

selectability is proud to be one of regional Queensland’s largest and leading providers of mental health services across a wide footprint, supporting individuals and communities in northern, central and western Queensland.

As an NDIS service provider, the team has helped thousands of regional Queenslanders access and implement their NDIS plans.

In times of need, it’s often the selfless actions of individuals and organisations that remind us of the strength of community spirit. This week, the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre (HCSC) extends its heartfelt thanks to dedicated volunteers, Bevan and David and the incredible support of Ingham selectability for their role in the ongoing bread delivery program made possible by the Second Bite Program.
This program, a lifeline for many struggling individuals and families, ensures bread is collected from local supermarkets and distributed through the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre. Thanks to this initiative, countless residents in need can enjoy a basic yet vital staple without financial burden.
Bevan and David collect the bread and set it out in the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centres foyer several times a week. Their unwavering commitment has not only reduced food waste but has also brought hope and dignity to those facing hardship.
Equally instrumental in the program’s success is selectability, which has provided logistical support, and resources to keep the initiative running smoothly. Their partnership has been a beacon of generosity, highlighting the importance of collaboration in tackling food insecurity.
“We are incredibly grateful for the work of these amazing volunteers and the backing of Ingham selectability,” says HCSC CEO Linda. “Together, we’ve created a program that’s more than just about bread — it’s about community, compassion, and coming together to lift each other up.”
Local residents have also expressed their gratitude, with one recipient sharing, “It’s not just the bread; it’s knowing someone cares.”
The bread delivery program is a shining example of what can be achieved when individuals and organisations unite for the greater good.

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Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR) has shared its dismay at the Australian Sugar Milling Council, saying it has lashed out at farmers for their criticism of the performance of mills this crushing season.
QCAR has said that ASMC CEO Ash Salardini accused cane farmers of taking “pot shots” at mill workers and alleged they were “seemingly blaming the mills for not controlling the weather”.
Mr Salardini further said he was “frankly dismayed” at commentary from grower collective groups as he claimed a senior Canegrowers representative had suggested mill breakdowns had cost farmers billions.
QCAR CEO Stephen Ryan said it was ridiculous for the AMSC to claim cane farmers were blaming mills for rain-induced delays.
“ASMC has conveniently glossed over what is at the core of farmers’ concerns, that is the year-after-year poor performances of the mills combined with delayed starts to the season and belligerently extended industrial activity,” Mr Ryan said.
“These factors combined, which are in the miller’s control and not Mother Nature’s or the growers, have significantly contributed to standover crops and a big hit to farmers’ incomes.
“ASMC is using mill workers as a pawn to try and draw a wedge between them and the farmers.
“QCAR members, and cane farmers as a whole, actually value the mill workers and we thank them for their service as many are literally our friends and family members.”
Mr Ryan added mill workers had themselves criticised the millers, demonstrated by the strikes and industrial disputes at Wilmar mills earlier this year.
“Some milling companies are the ones pulling strings in terms of their poor decisions to cut back on investment and not inject the necessary funds to get mills up to par,” he said.
“Mill workers keep telling us management is not listening to the advice of experienced, long-term employees, which is clearly contributing to the embarrassing predicament millers now find themselves in.
“Even when there’s not standover cane, unduly extended crushes have been progressively destroying our industry.”
QCAR said it invited ASMC and millers to attend a public forum in Ayr in July but neither attended.
“Earnest attempts by grower groups to raise legitimate issues in private hasn’t worked and farmers have been forced to go public with concerns,” Mr Ryan said.
“The next generation of farmers are looking on in dismay as the industry they love and want to succeed is being hollowed out before them, dashing their hopes and dreams.”
Mr Ryan said QCAR was not alone in its criticism with Canegrowers Mackay chair Kevin Borg also speaking out on behalf of growers’ frustrations with millers.
He said millers, instead of shaming growers over their legitimate concerns, should focus on performing to Australian expectations and standards.
“They must shape up, now,” he said.

Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR) has shared its dismay at the Australian Sugar Milling Council, saying it has lashed out at farmers for their criticism of the performance of mills this crushing season.
QCAR has said that ASMC CEO Ash Salardini accused cane farmers of taking “pot shots” at mill workers and alleged they were “seemingly blaming the mills for not controlling the weather”.
Mr Salardini further said he was “frankly dismayed” at commentary from grower collective groups as he claimed a senior Canegrowers representative had suggested mill breakdowns had cost farmers billions.
QCAR CEO Stephen Ryan said it was ridiculous for the AMSC to claim cane farmers were blaming mills for rain-induced delays.
“ASMC has conveniently glossed over what is at the core of farmers’ concerns, that is the year-after-year poor performances of the mills combined with delayed starts to the season and belligerently extended industrial activity,” Mr Ryan said.
“These factors combined, which are in the miller’s control and not Mother Nature’s or the growers, have significantly contributed to standover crops and a big hit to farmers’ incomes.
“ASMC is using mill workers as a pawn to try and draw a wedge between them and the farmers.
“QCAR members, and cane farmers as a whole, actually value the mill workers and we thank them for their service as many are literally our friends and family members.”
Mr Ryan added mill workers had themselves criticised the millers, demonstrated by the strikes and industrial disputes at Wilmar mills earlier this year.
“Some milling companies are the ones pulling strings in terms of their poor decisions to cut back on investment and not inject the necessary funds to get mills up to par,” he said.
“Mill workers keep telling us management is not listening to the advice of experienced, long-term employees, which is clearly contributing to the embarrassing predicament millers now find themselves in.
“Even when there’s not standover cane, unduly extended crushes have been progressively destroying our industry.”
QCAR said it invited ASMC and millers to attend a public forum in Ayr in July but neither attended.
“Earnest attempts by grower groups to raise legitimate issues in private hasn’t worked and farmers have been forced to go public with concerns,” Mr Ryan said.
“The next generation of farmers are looking on in dismay as the industry they love and want to succeed is being hollowed out before them, dashing their hopes and dreams.”
Mr Ryan said QCAR was not alone in its criticism with Canegrowers Mackay chair Kevin Borg also speaking out on behalf of growers’ frustrations with millers.
He said millers, instead of shaming growers over their legitimate concerns, should focus on performing to Australian expectations and standards.
“They must shape up, now,” he said.

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A new $3.2 million project will focus on the Herbert catchment – the largest river system in Far North Queensland which begins on the Atherton Tablelands and flows to the ocean almost 300km away at Ingham.
Terrain NRM is working with a wide range of industries and groups to plan for the Herbert Integrated Project, which is funded through the Queensland Government’s Queensland Reef Water Quality Program. More than 40 people have been part of workshops in Ravenshoe and Ingham recently to help determine the best actions to further improve water quality, the land, its resilience, agricultural outcomes and co-benefits for the local community. 
Project manager Fiona Barron said a whole-of-catchment outlook was important.
“We will be building on previous projects in this catchment. They include working with farmers on grazing and sugar cane management practice changes to improve everything from the land and production to the quality of water leaving properties. They also include fine-scale water quality monitoring, constructing fishways and repairing streambanks by engineering structures like rock chutes and pile fields.
“Programs delivered over the last 15 years have made good progress. But to meet the 2050 water quality targets, we need to build on past work. This new Herbert project will draw heavily on local knowledge, combined with all the data and science that’s come before, for a program that’s tailor-made to the upper and lower Herbert.
“The upper and lower catchments are very different areas. We are factoring all that in and we’ll be prioritising projects – from weed control and streambank revegetation to road management and whole-of-farm planning - to maximise impact.”
Fiona said the project could also help landholders and the wider community to identify emerging opportunities in the natural capital and green economy markets, supporting economic and environmental resilience.
A group of representatives, from across industry, community and government, will help to manage the project and its design. 
The Herbert catchment covers about 10,000 square kilometres and is one of the four main contributors to fine sediment loads on the Great Barrier Reef.

Paul Schembri's election as grower-director to the Sugar Terminals Limited (STL) board has been met with strong approval from grower advocacy organisations CANEGROWERS and Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR). This milestone highlights the increasing demand for transparency, accountability, and grower-focused decision-making within the sugarcane industry.
CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens hailed Mr Schembri’s election as a victory for growers, emphasising the significance of his leadership.
“Paul Schembri’s election is a win for growers and the industry as a whole,” he said.
“Paul’s decades of experience and dedication make him an invaluable addition to the STL board. His presence signals a renewed focus on ensuring the voices of growers are not just heard but respected.”
QCAR Chairman Christian Lago also acknowledged the overwhelming support for Mr Schembri, describing him as a “bona-fide grower” and expressing optimism about his contributions.
“We congratulate Paul on his election,” Mr Lago said.
“He’s a bona-fide grower who QCAR wholeheartedly endorsed, and we look forward to working with him and fellow G Class director Steve Kirby, who are well-placed to represent the interests of G Class shareholders.”
The election outcome follows a contentious period for STL. Delays in finalising the voting process after the Annual General Meeting (AGM) were compounded by growing frustrations with STL’s leadership and its decision-making approach. CANEGROWERS and QCAR were among those critical of STL’s controversial 2023 move to insource terminal operations, which many growers view as unnecessary and poorly communicated.
“Most farmers do not support the plan—it’s a business model STL has no track record with,” Mr Lago said.
“STL’s claims that it can outperform Queensland Sugar Limited (QSL) are unsubstantiated, and we are yet to see any proof.”
CANEGROWERS also pointed to the rejection of STL’s remuneration report for the second consecutive year at the AGM as evidence of shareholder dissatisfaction. While a motion to spill the board was ultimately defeated, the result underscored the demand for change.
“This election is more than just a win for Paul—it’s a wake-up call for STL,” Mr Menkens said.
“Growers are demanding a change in leadership style and decision-making. They want transparency, accountability, and a commitment to the industry’s long-term interests.”
Both organisations have called for reform to address diminishing grower representation within STL. Mr Lago highlighted the decline in voting power among active G Class shareholders, which has dropped from 64% in 2000 to just 36% in 2024.
“Active growers must make up the majority of shareholders as was intended in STL’s founding charter,” he said.
“STL must focus on fixing the share registers and deal promptly, decisively, and fairly with dry shareholders.”
As Mr Schembri steps into his new role, there is cautious optimism that his leadership will help bridge divides and refocus STL’s priorities.
“These terminals represent generations of growers’ hard work and investment,” Mr Menkens said.
“Unilateral decisions that ignore grower input erode trust and unity. Paul’s election is an opportunity for STL to rebuild trust and honour the legacy of the sugarcane industry while preparing it for a sustainable future.”
The industry now watches closely, expecting STL to address concerns, restore grower representation, and provide clarity on its contentious insourcing model.
“This is a critical moment for STL to prove it can genuinely act in the best interests of the growers who built its foundation,” Mr Lago said.
A full STL update is available online: nsx.com.au/ftp/news/021744120.PDF.

The new owners of Halifax Hotel are loving their new life in the Hinchinbrook Region.

In August 2024 Luke Penning and Joe Mikuletic opened their doors to the Halifax community, and were thrilled when more than 200 people came along to welcome to them.

Between the two of them, Luke has the hospitality experience. He has been in the industry for almost 20 years, starting as a barista, and then worked in nightclubs, RSL, clubs, pubs and hotels.

By comparison, Joe has been selling forklifts for the past 27 years and, deciding to go for a career change has now been working in the hospitality industry for 15 weeks, saying he’s loving it so far.

“We're living the dream,” said Joe.

“When I was 18, drinking at the pub I always wanted to buy a pub and 30 something years later, we have.

“What I like about it is the small town, everybody knows everybody. Everybody looks after each other. Everybody respects each other.

“The community is tight knit and so welcoming as well, once you are here you feel like a local and are treated like a local too.

“The way they have welcomed us has been very humbling.”

Meanwhile, Luke said employing local is very important to them.

“We employ local first,” he explained.

“We have an extra seven positions now and they've all gone to locals.”

Since taking over, Luke and Joe have been busy with renovation works too, giving the place a new paint job and spruiking it up so there is a new light and airy feel that the community say they love.

In the future, the pair hope to add a beer garden extension, outdoor entertainment areas, an external wood fired pizzeria, an outdoor bar, and even a kids playground.

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The Herbert River Museum is preparing for its Christmas themed display windows, featuring a nativity scene and all things Christmassy.

The volunteers at the museum all get behind it and love the Christmas aspect in the museum during this part of the year.

The Herbert River Museum has 13 volunteers and President Coral Gard said she is always looking for more.

“We only need people to do three hours a week,” she said.

The non-for-profit museum has been open for 32 years now and volunteers always love to see people coming through the doors for the first time.

The museum has six rooms in total and most items on display are donated by members of the public.

“When one of the ladies got here yesterday, on the doorstep was an old fashioned hair dryer,” said Coral.

“Someone had dropped it at the door for us!”

Coral loves working at the museum, she finds it extremely satisfying and interesting.

“I love the history of the place, it is wonderful,” Coral said.

“People come in, and then they'll ask about certain things, and I will say, ‘Well, if I don't know, I can get somebody that does know’.”

Coral also added her thanks to the council, that has donated $5000 a year to the Herbert River Museum.

The Herbert River Museum is open Tuesday – Saturday 9am – 12pm and will be closed from the 14 December until 4th February for volunteers to enjoy Christmas and extra time with family.

Owner of Hinchinbrook Community Pharmacy Andrew Giliberto recently decided his store needed a fresh lick of paint, and after a discussion with his wife, he thought a mural would be a great addition to his store.

Andrew had seen artwork by ‘Art by Lavinia’ around Halifax and knew she would be the perfect creative for the job.

“I had the idea of getting Lavinia to do a mural on this wall ever since I had seen what she had done at the butchers, the pub and a few other places around the district, I was familiar with her work,” said Andrew.

“I approached her earlier in the year and showed her a few old photos of the town that we were given by the museum and the locals.

“We did a few high-resolution scans, and I sent them off to Lavinia and said, look, I was thinking we do a street scape and mesh a few of these photos together and have it as a perspective of looking down the street from the same angle.”

Lavinia loved the idea and Andrew says he is thrilled with the result.

“We have had nothing but positive reviews,” he said.

“People come in specifically just to say it looks great and we are really happy with that.”

Andrew explained the mural of the old street in Halifax was in-keeping with the township’s desire to become a heritage village.

“It makes us stand out as a town, and if we lean into this, maybe it's going to be the thing that puts Halifax on the map,” explained Andrew.

“It's a great town, and it's a great community, and we'd like to see it go forward.”

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The Hinchinbrook Shire Council Seniors Morning Tea, held on Friday, 6 December, was a resounding success.
More than 300 attendees gathered to enjoy a delightful morning tea, followed by outstanding performances from local talent. The event was a wonderful celebration, with festive cheer and heartfelt Christmas wishes shared, making it a truly memorable occasion for all involved.

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Find More pictures at: https://www.hinchinbrooklife.com/social-pics/a-lively-seniors-morning-tea
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Ingham’s Own Premier of Queensland David Crisafulli is on his way to the region to officially launch Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper at a special event due to be held at Ingham RSL this Wednesday night.

The whole community is welcome to attend the special launch celebrations where they can hear first-hand about the Premier’s journey, starting out as a Cadet Journalist for the Herbert River Express to becoming the 41st Premier of Queensland.

QLD Premier Backs Regional Print Media

Beginning his professional career as a Cadet Journalist for the Herbert River Express, Ingham-born Premier David Crisafulli has strong ties to both the region and regional newspapers.

It is these ties that recently saw him graciously accept an invitation by Life Publishing Group to officially launch Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper.

The Premier completed work experience at the Herbert River Express from 1995 to 1996, he then started a full-time role in 1998 while at university and finished-up in 2000.

“As someone who started their career as a newspaper cadet in Ingham, regional media outlets hold a special place in my heart,” stated the Premier.
 
“The Herbert River Express taught me the value of hard work and community and allowed me to tell Queenslanders’ incredible stories.”

Crisafulli adds that regional newspapers are at the cornerstone of the community, keeping everyone connected.
 
“Regional media outlets provide a vital service keeping residents informed and local communities connected,” he expressed.
 
“I’m excited the people of Hinchinbrook will have a new local paper to showcase this incredible part of Queensland that I know and love.”

Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper printed its first publication on Tuesday 26th November this year and held an informal ‘Launch Breakfast’ for its Foundation Advertising Partners last week.

Printing 3000 copies every week and distributing throughout Ingham and surrounding townships, north to Cardwell and south to Rollingstone, this is a free newspaper available to everyone in the community from over 50 dedicated distribution stands and pick-up points.

Editor in Chief, Rachael Smith, said she is thrilled to be part of the team bringing a free newspaper to the local community.

“We are 100% dedicated to connecting regional communities through the power of print media,” shared Rachael.

“When the Mayor invited us to Ingham we immediately fell in love with the community and we instantly knew this newspaper was going to be more than words on pages – it’s about bringing the community together, giving them a local platform for their news – every community deserves this.”

Life Publishing Group has been operating for 13 years, beginning with two magazine publications and launching into the world of weekly newspapers in 2020.

Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper has been printing weekly news for over four years now and Burdekin Life Newspaper was launched in 2023, followed by Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper in November.

“In May this year we were honoured to win Best Free Newspaper in Queensland for Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper at the Queensland Country Press Awards,” said Rachael.

“Founder Bec Douthwaite and I accepted the award on the night and it was presented by the then-Leader of the Opposition David Crisafulli.

“It was an exciting moment made even more special by the fact David presented us the award.

“I was lucky enough to interview again him for a newspaper article a few months later and that’s when I told him we’d soon be starting Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper.

“It’s a huge honour to be welcoming the Premier to our launch tomorrow and I would like to personally thank him for accepting the invite!”

If you would like to attend the event simply scan the QR code and register.

Life Publishing Group is providing a drink on arrival and nibblies for all to enjoy and Ingham RSL has kindly co-sponsored the event.

https://www.eventbrite.com.au/myevent/1095685247069/invite-and-promote/

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Hi Everyone,

I hope you are enjoying your new free local newspaper!

It’s an absolute pleasure to be sharing all your stories with the local community and I hope the paper is allowing you to feel more connected.

We have had an incredible response so far with our phones running hot on the day we first published the paper – most people were calling to find out where they could get their hands on a copy.

You can check out our Facebook page for the full list of locations and, make sure you give the page a ‘like’ while you’re there!

As you can see, Hinchinbrook Life is a free community newspaper, we are dedicated to making local news available to everyone in the community.

This means every printed word is free to read and so is every word published on our website – there are no pay walls.

The reason we can bring this all to you for free is because of the incredible local businesses that choose to advertise with us.

In fact, our Founding Advertising Partners, the community-minded individuals that got behind the paper before it even started, are the reason we are here at all.

I’d like to say a big thank you to this group of local businesses, we really appreciate your faith in us and your desire to help reinstate the local paper.

If you are a local business owner in the community, you can join this group of people by talking with our amazing Sales Manager Trish and booking an ad.

If you are a community member wondering how you can support this paper, the answer is simple – read about the advertisers, look at their ads, go into their businesses and buy a product or service from them.

This will continue to make this paper a success!

Rach

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Carol Sanderson has been a dedicated volunteer with the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre since its establishment in 1980—an incredible 44 years of service. Over this time, she has taken on numerous roles within the organization, including receptionist, emergency relief coordinator, and provider of community information and referrals. She also contributed to the food bank and served on the board.
The Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre began as a simple community information center and has since evolved into the comprehensive service provider it is today. Carol has been a constant presence through this journey, embracing change with a cheerful and friendly attitude.
Beyond her work with the Centre, Carol volunteers with other community organizations, such as Ingham Palliative Care, and previously dedicated 20 years as a Scout Leader. For Carol, volunteering is a way to stay engaged and connected.
"It’s the best thing to do instead of sitting at home feeling sorry for yourself. I’m getting out and meeting a lot of nice people," she said.
When asked about the challenges of volunteering, Carol admits, "Not always being able to help everybody" is the hardest part.  
Volunteers like Carol are the backbone of the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre, helping thousands of people in need every year. If you’re considering volunteering and want to make a difference in your community, we’d love to hear from you!

Contributed with thanks to ​Carmon Martin Community Grants Officer from Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre

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Carol Sanderson has volunteered with the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre for 44 years. Photo supplied

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Disaster season is here and last Thursday 28 November the Herbert River Sub Group gathered to discuss the upcoming season and re-access the plan in case of emergency.

Sergeant and Officer in Charge of Halifax Police Station Giovanni Tantalo is coordinator of the meeting.

Sergeant Tantalo said this sub-group was created from the Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG), following the 2012 disaster season.

“The idea is to get together and have a bit of a brainstorm, and if any of the wardens or any of the members can think of a problem we have had previously that might need to be addressed we can bring those issues up with the LDMG,” explained Sergeant Tantalo.

“This meeting brings together our area wardens in each of our little townships that become islands in major floods, the emergency services, any other additional personnel who may need to know information for major events, such as our food providers, fuel business owners, that type of thing.

“The best advice I can give is to look at the Council’s notice board on the web, they also have hand-out flyers. Read those and follow those steps.

Hinchinbrook Shire Council Mayor Ramon Jayo said it’s important to be prepared in disaster season.

“It is important that people understand what the risks to them are because then they can start thinking about how they will plan and prepare themselves to deal with that risk,” said Mayor Ramon Jayo.

“For instance, our most common risk here is flooding. What happens when there are floods? People are going to get isolated.

“At the council, we’ve got information which is relevant and tells us what our risks are and how best to prepare for it.

“We’re in cyclone alley, our big three disasters are cyclones, floods and storm surges.”

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Sergeant and Officer in Charge of Halifax Police Station Giovanni Tantalo and Hinchinbrook Shire Council Mayor Ramon Jayo. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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On Thursday 28 November, the State Government took the first step towards restoring community safety and legislating Adult Crime, Adult Time with the introduction of the landmark, Making Queensland Safer Bill 2024.
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The Making Queensland Safer Laws deliver on a key commitment to Queenslanders to turn the tide on the Youth Crime Crisis. Under the new laws, juvenile offenders who commit some of the most serious crimes will face the same penalties as adult offenders and the rights of victims will be put ahead of the rights of offenders. 
With proposed amendments to the Youth Justice Act 1992, the tough provisions contained in the Bill complement plans for Gold Standard Early Intervention, crime prevention and effective rehabilitation to ensure fewer Queenslanders fall victim to crime. 

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Adult Crime, Adult Time offences include murder, manslaughter, unlawful striking causing death, grievous bodily harm, wounding, serious assault, home business break-ins and robbery, and dangerous operation of vehicles.

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The Making Queensland Safer laws propose removing the principle of detention as a last resort and will change the way in which offenders are sentenced with courts empowered to consider an offender’s full criminal history when sentencing.

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Premier David Crisafulli said restoring community safety would be the first order of business with the Making Queensland Safer Laws. 
“The Making Queensland Safer Laws are the first strike back against a youth crime crisis a decade in the making,” Premier Crisafulli said. 
“Where we are today is the result of decisions made a decade ago; a fresh start is what we need, Queenslanders demanded it and we are delivering it.”

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A travel influencer recently put Cardwell on the digital map, creating a viral video detailing the suspected extraterrestrial nature residing within the region.

Terry’s twenty-minute YouTube video titled, “Cardwell: Is this Tiny Town Australia’s UFO Capital?” has attracted well over 67,000 views and counting, with the video prompting many locals to reminisce on their own paranormal experiences.

Terry’s inspiration to investigate the mysterious alien phenomenon came after he read many reports of strange lights flickering in the night sky, exhibiting seemingly unexplainable behaviours, and acting on his inquisitiveness, he decided to interview a handful of locals on his travels in attempt to find answers.

“Since settlement there’s been unusual stories recorded about different things in the sky, coming out of the water, and on the land,” shared Thea, organiser of Cardwell’s annual Australian UFO Festival.

“There’s one particular phenomenon that has been recorded since early settlement and it’s these two lights that travel across the sky, parallel with each other and then they will just shoot straight up, and we’ve just coined it, the Cardwell Lights.”

The northern end of Cardwell, has homed many reports over the years where residents have claimed to witness these two strange lights travelling parallel at high speeds across the sky to then suddenly shoot directly upwards into the atmosphere, leaving onlookers feeling anxious and on edge.

Similarly, foreign objects have been witnessed emerging from the ocean nearing towards Hinchinbrook Island and rapidly flying into the sky, without a trace. Described as spaceships, fisherman recall the objects suddenly flying out from the depths of the ocean below, with some experiences causing all electronic equipment on board to lose power and reception.

Above all else, the most famous interplanetary sighting was reported in January of 1966 when local farmer, George Pedley was left “frigid with fright” after witnessing a flying saucer rise at great speed from a lagoon on his Tully property.

Regardless of the countess stories and local recounts, many are confident “seeing is believing,” despite the blanketed perception being “we aren’t alone,” however, although there’s a lack of evidence proving the reality of aliens, many scientists and researchers believe it’s likely extraterrestrial life exists.

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A mysterious “crop circle” found by George Pedley following a harrowing 1966 paranormal ordeal.

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On Monday 6 January 2025, physical emergency dredging operations will commence at Port Hinchinbrook’s One Mile Creek to improve both recreational and essential access.
Announced on Wednesday 27 November, countless locals welcomed the news with open arms, taking to social media to express their gratitude towards the Cassowary Coast Regional Council, adding these plans have been highly anticipated across the entire boating and fishing community.
One Mile Creek has been a contentious topic of discussion for many years, with Member for Hinchinbrook, Nick Dametto, spearheading concerns for the area since 2020, outlining the necessity of developing both a long-term solution as well as actioning emergency dredging.
Scheduled for January, the dredging will extend across a four-week period with approximately 990 tonnes of material expected to be removed from the area.
In order to execute the planned operations, a 100m exclusion zone around the dredging area will be established to protect the safety of all water users, whilst stabilising the batter slopes and seabed.
The Port Hinchinbrook Boat Ramp will be closed throughout the period, with the Cassowary Coat Regional Council encouraging the community to utilise alternative boat ramp locations at Marine Parade, Meunga Creek or Fishers Creek.
A lengthy process, the Cassowary Coat Regional Council has undertaken sediment testing, analysed dredge sediment disposal sites, conducted a hydrographic survey, and met with the State Assessment and Referral Agency (SARA) prior to receiving $1.5 million in funding from the Australian Government to commence works.
“Following the receipt of a Deed of Variation from the Department of Infrastructure in October 2024, we are moving forward with this crucial project to enhance our local waterway,” shared the Cassowary Coast Regional Council.
“We want to reassure the community, that environmental considerations are a priority, and we will be managing our obligations under the Environmental Protection Act 1994 to monitor and mitigate any potential impacts.”
Although vital, the current emergency program exists as merely a short-term solution to the ongoing accessibility issues concerning One Mile Creek, Port Hinchinbrook Marina and the surrounding onshore facilities.

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One Mile Creek underwent emergency dredging in 2022.
One Mile Creek was also a contentious topic of discussion in 2020.

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The 58th Parliament of Queensland commenced last week as the Legislative Assembly sat for the first time under the incoming Crisafulli Government. Most of the first week was filled with ceremony and official proceedings except for Thursday when the incoming government introduced three new bills, one being the anticipated Making Queensland Safer Bill, which is set to become law before Christmas.
While the legislation is a step in the right direction, in my opinion it doesn’t go far enough. The bill takes inspiration from several of the Katter’s Australian Party’s (KAP) crime policies, like “removing detention as a last resort” and the principle of “adult crime = adult time” but fails to address the public’s calls to implement minimum mandatory sentencing and castle law.
Youth offenders must be locked up, but the fact is, our detention centres are full. Young crims are climbing over themselves to get into places like Cleveland Bay detention centre before Christmas because it’s a holiday camp. Detention should be a place to avoid, instead of plush purpose built metro facilities. I’d like to see these kids spending the Christmas holidays out in Western Queensland on a cattle station or in donga style accommodation near Urandangi serving time under KAP’s Relocation Sentencing policy.
Also, during the first week of parliament, I moved a disallowance motion to oppose incoming regulations that would make wearing a lifejacket mandatory in certain circumstances. From December 1st, boaties in vessels under 4.8 metres will be forced to wear lifejackets when boating alone or at night.
I’m all for safety, however mandating this requirement is overbearing and takes away what should be a personal responsibility. Boaties should have the right to decide if it is necessary or safe for them to wear a lifejacket or not. The regulations are not justified. What’s next, regulating floaties for everyone who decides to go swimming?
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Opinion Piece
Contributed with thanks to Member for Hinchinbrook Nick Dametto

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Member for Hinchinbrook Nick Dametto with his son Deekin at the official opening of the 58th State Parliament. Photo supplied

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Felix Reitano of Felix Reitano Furniture & Real Estate recently  became a life member of the Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ).

He was recognised for a lifetime of dedication to the real estate profession and REIQ CEO Antonia Mercorella said the real estate peak body considers this distinction for REIQ members who have shown long outstanding and meritorious service. 
 
“Felix certainly fits the bill for the honour of Life Member, holding REIQ membership since 1992, more than three decades, and in that time proudly and exceptionally serving his community and giving back to his real estate colleagues,” Ms Mercorella said.
 
“He has been a great supporter of the REIQ and our advocacy efforts over the years and it’s wonderful to acknowledge his contribution and firm commitment to the REIQ family.
 
“Felix Reitano Furniture & Real Estate is a family business that’s not only highly respected, but after celebrating 100 years of operation, it’s woven into the fabric of the community and is an Ingham institution – dare I say, it’s become part of the furniture!
 
“Felix is undoubtedly a ‘people person’ who thrives off human interaction, and I wouldn’t be surprised if he knew just about everyone in his district, giving him great influence.”
 
Accepting the Life Member certificate in person at the REIQ Office HQ, alongside his wife Judy, Felix said he was honoured to receive the award and dedicated it to his family.
 
“I’m 77 years young and my son, Felix Peter, is the fourth generation in our family business, but we both always keep in mind that we are carrying the baton on behalf of those that came before us,” he said.
 
“I dedicate this award to my grandfather and my father who were faced with much greater challenges, yet still accomplished so much and established a business with exceptional standards and service.
 
“We respect and honour that tradition by living by those standards, and the REIQ has been a great support in our endeavours because its high standards match ours. 
 
“Real estate is far more technical now than the old days when you shook hands and away you went, but with rights come responsibility and I take that responsibility seriously.”
 
Felix Reitano has spent nearly all of his 77 years in Ingham, leading the family business for over 45 years. As the third generation to take the helm, Felix has upheld a proud legacy of service in the Hinchinbrook district, with the business celebrating 100 years of operation in 2023.
 
He is a family man and active community leader, Felix was named the Hinchinbrook Shire’s Citizen of the Year in 2024, further cementing his legacy of service, dedication, and commitment to the real estate profession and his local community. 

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Antonia Mercorella (REIQ CEO), Felix & Judy Reitano & Peter Brewer (REIQ Chairman). Photo supplied

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In January of 2014, the lives of the Williams and Fettell family were turned upside down when thirty-four-year-old mother of two, Lauri Fettell was diagnosed with breast cancer. In navigating the news of her daughter’s diagnosis, Sandra Williams discovered a way in which she could not only help her daughter, but also support so many others experiencing breast cancer, and channelled her daughter’s strength to establish The Simple Gift of a Bag.

Lauri underwent a mastectomy, and whilst in hospital recovering from the surgery, Sandra noticed the unpracticality and uncomfortableness her daughter’s drainage bag caused, and with that, she began planning for something better. Although experiencing the unthinkable, both Sandra and Lauri focused on providing other breast cancer survivors with compassion and strived to provide women across Australia with the opportunity to access the bags.

“Even while undergoing chemotherapy, my daughter Lauri would lie in bed, and ring around to try find hospitals within Australia that would like our bags as each bag gives that little bit of dignity and kindness for a person during an overwhelming time in their life and Lauri knows this as she’s lived through it, and knows exactly how the patient feels,” added Sandra.

“Our page grew bigger and so did the volunteers – the generosity of people never ceased to amaze us, and we have around sixty women who have been sewing bags, with more offering to help every day,” Sandra added.

The pair’s initiative has continued to gain traction, and today, with women sewing across Australia, ‘The Simple Gift of a Bag’ posts drainage bag covers to over eighty-eight hospitals and specialist rooms throughout the country for patients to use freely during their post operation recovery. To date, just over 30,500 bags have been handmade and donated as part of ‘The Simple Gift of a Bag’[, with both Lauri and Sandra beyond grateful for the support of the Hinchinbrook community and beyond.

“We love our connection to the Hinchinbrook community, and the businesses in Ingham, Halifax and Lucinda suburbs are so generous with gift vouchers, and prizes that we use each year for our Winter Fundraiser Raffle – it’s a very important part of our yearly fundraising campaign.”

Sandra invites anyone who may be interested in volunteering their time in support of The Simple Gift of a Bag to email sly.sis@bigpond.com.

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Lauri Fettell today with her beautiful family.
John Flynn Private Hospital staff with some of the amazing bags donated by The Simple Gift of a Bag.
Fundraising for a fantastic cause, Sandra is often blown away with the community’s support.

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Greetings, Hinchinbrook Residents! 

It is such a privilege to be able to contribute to the Hinchinbrook Life Councillor Column. The first issue of the Hinchinbrook Life set the bar high, it was great to be able to sit down and read through what has been and will be happening throughout our Shire.

I am deeply passionate about our community, and I was thrilled to be allocated the Infrastructure Services Advisory Portfolio.

Since taking on this role, I have been eager to meet with the public, listen to your concerns, and bring your ideas back to the Mayor and Councillors. Together, we can work on initiatives that will benefit our community.

In addition to my primary responsibilities, I also sit on several other Council advisory committees and external organisations.These include Herbert River Improvement Trust (HRIT) as Deputy Chair, Hinchinbrook Road Safety Advisory Committee as Chair, Asset Management Steering Committee and the Hinchinbrook Recovery Group Infrastructure Sub-Group Chair Councillor.

Council is responsible for its infrastructure assets, however may seek reimbursement of expenditure for restoration of damaged infrastructure assets through the DRFA and NDRRA programs, subject to eligibility assessments undertaken by the Queensland Reconstruction Authority (QRA).

Recently attending a Mount Fox Community Shed Meeting gave a great opportunity to share a coffee and scones whilst catching up with and listening to the residents.

Continuing to represent Council at the Halifax Progress Association’s monthly meetings is a real honour, and I am looking forward to collaborating with the Association to support their ideas and events, including their monthly markets and yearly street party.

I am committed to being accessible and responsive to your needs. Please feel free to reach out to me with your thoughts and suggestions. Your feedback is invaluable in helping us make informed decisions that enhance our community.

I am excited about the future and the opportunity to serve you. Together, we can make Hinchinbrook an even better place to live, work, and play.

As the current crushing season draws to a close and we head towards a well-earned break with family and friends, please stay safe and take time to enjoy your Shire and what it has to offer. 

Finally, I would like to wish everyone a wonderful Christmas in Hinchinbrook.

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Nestled just beyond the winding, mangrove lined Hinchinbrook Channel lies Australia’s largest island national park, Hinchinbrook Island, spanning 39,00 hectares of pristine wilderness.
Fringed by the world’s most extensive coral reef system, this untouched paradise is a treasure trove of natural beauty and adventure.
A short 20 minute charter from Lucinda, located northeast of Ingham, brings you to this awe-inspiring destination.
As you draw closer, the island unveils a breathtaking tapestry of emerald rainforests cascading over rugged mountains that plunge dramatically into deserted beaches.
For the adventurous, the island features the legendary Thorsborne Trail, ranked as one of the world’s top 10 multi day hikes.
Pack your bags, embrace your sense of wonder, and prepare to uncover one of Australia’s best kept secrets and find your Hinchinbrook Way.

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I am pleased to report that Council adopted the Annual Report for 2023-2024 at its monthly General Meeting held 26 November 2024. The Annual Report is a reflection on the past year, highlighting Council’s achievements and progress towards enhancing the wellbeing and advancement of our community.
The report contains a great deal of information including infrastructure projects undertaken and emerging initiatives in the maintenance, renewal and replacement of essential assets to meet demand and expectations of the community and in that regard, it was pleasing to observe, albeit very modest, the continued upward trajectory of our population statistics over the past two years.
As a key indicator of our population growth in the past year, Council was excited to welcome 49 babies at the Underwater Wonderland Baby Welcoming Ceremony, a new record for the annual baby welcoming event.
A further indicator of continuing growth was observed through the demand for additional housing reported by real estate agents in the community, reports supported by the exponential growth in property transfers occurring and building applications for new housing lodged. Applications for land reconfigurations have also risen significantly in the past year compared to the previous decade.
The report is available on Council’s website under Corporate Documents or may be purchased from Council at a cost of $40.00.
It’s time to Get Ready Hinchinbrook
Our storm season is now approaching, and it is time for us to prepare for whatever Mother Nature has in store for Hinchinbrook this summer.
We will experience flooding which may prevent us from coming to town and obtaining food.  So as part of your plan, it would be essential that you have a pantry full of food to last you at least three days, just in case.
We know that in Hinchinbrook we are prone to cyclones. Do you have torches, batteries and mobile devices to recharge your phone batteries from your car plug.
Many more examples of problems you may experience and actions you should take to address such problems can be found on Council’s website under Disaster and Emergency Information as well as websites such as Get Ready Queensland.  If you don’t have access to the web, then call into Council’s offices on Lannercost Street and pick up hard copies to read at home.

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Ingham Motorcycles and Mowers has been owned and operated by the same family since 1994, which means the team are now celebrating their 30th year of servicing the community together. 
 
Christine Pagliuso, current owner of Ingham Motorcycles and Mowers, bought the business from her father Franco, in 2022. 
 
When her parents first purchased the store, it was called Ingham Motorcycles and Marine, specialising in motorcycles, boating and camping equipment. It was some years later that her father Franco sold the marine side of the business, choosing to concentrate on power equipment instead. And so, Ingham Motorcycles and Mowers was born.
 
Christine, now owner of the store, has been working at the store since 1998 and knows the store inside and out. She has even completed a motorcycle and small engine mechanical trade certificate. Her sister Karen works alongside her, after returning to Ingham in 2005.

“Being women in a male dominated industry has its challenges but my sister and I have been doing this for a long time and we know our products,” said Christine.
 
Ingham Motorcycles and Mowers has been in the Pagliuso family for over three decades and Christine believes it is due to the standard that they set.
 
“We maintain the same level of sales and workshop support that we always have for the local community and surrounding areas,” said Christine
 
“I have three full-time mechanics out there at the moment, two qualified technicians, and one third-year apprentice.
 
“We repair everything that we sell, plus many brands of motorcycles, mowers, generators, all the power equipment.”
 
“What sets us apart is our good quality honest service, reasonable rates and a quick turnaround of work.”
 
Christine was born and raised in the area and she loves the region, saying it is a great place to live. Above all, however, Christine loves supporting her local community, staff and customers. 
 
Her love for the staff shines through and customers of the store always experience a warm greeting when they come through the doors. 

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Ingham Motorcycles and Mowers owner Christine Pagliuso. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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December is here, which means Christmas festivities are quickly approaching. For the Hinchinbrook community this year’s launch of “Christmas in Hinchinbrook”, commencing with the celebration and community event in Ingham CBD last Thursday,  meant that the festive season kicked off in the most spectacular way.
On behalf of Chamber members, business owners and the broader community, acknowledgement and recognition must be given to Hinchinbrook Shire Council for organising and funding this wonderful Christmas Launch event.  
The success of this event was witnessed by the vast numbers of locals and visitors in the street from early afternoon and well into the night.  
It was very pleasing to witness the culmination of the significant planning, engagement with business owners, market stall holders,  community groups and implementation of an effective marketing campaign which resulted in such a wonderful night.  
Feedback from community, retailers and stall holders has been exceptionally positive, with particular emphasis focusing on the opportunity for family and friends to enjoy a relaxed evening of shopping, catching up and enjoying the entertainment.
Many business owners have expressed their heartfelt appreciation for the overwhelming community support and this has provided confidence to explore the option of participating in a similar event on the last Thursday before Christmas.  
This week, the community has responded with overwhelming positivity to the return of a local community newspaper. It is hoped this will rebuild communication with the residents and raise a stronger awareness of the activities taking place locally and rebuild some of the connectivity that has slipped over the past several years.
Chamber continues to work with local businesses, bringing together this year’s massive prize draw for the “Shop & Win – the Hinchinbrook Way” promotion, that is due to be drawn on December 19th.   Shoppers are reminded to enter their receipts into the boxes provided, for their chance to win some amazing prizes.

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Often described as the “cane farmer’s supermarket”, Ingham Agencies has been serving the community under the management of the Pelleri family since 1994 and exists as a celebrated industrial and agricultural equipment supplier.

Collectively, Ingham Agencies operates locations in both Ingham and Tully, and effectively incorporate general engineering, retail, transportation and manufacturing services into their business structure to better accommodate clients and expand their customer base.

With expertise in agricultural manufacturing, Ingham Agencies specialises in manufacturing harvester parts, and tillage equipment along with carrying out general engineering, and repairs to further cater to the requirements of industrial and agricultural professionals in and around the community.

“We offer a broad range of services, and we cover the needs of cane farmers and industrial businesses between Ingham and Tully,” shared Michael.

A proud, family-owned business, Michael Pelleri and his wife Siobhan Pelleri have managed Ingham Agencies since his parents retired just over six years ago, and the pair pride themselves on continuing to uphold the same levels of customer service and expertise established thirty years ago.

Reflecting on the past three decades, Michael notes raising six children as an achievement he’s most proud of, and reminisces on establishing the business’ Tully branch, transport depot in Townsville and introducing transportation in 2009 into the mix as additional milestones.

“The transport business, QS Transport, was started to cater for the transportation needs of Ingham Agencies, and it’s grown from starting with one small, single axel truck to now running three semi trucks,” added Michael.

“QS Transport has been a major asset – it allows us to be far more flexible in our supply and services and puts us in control of our freight requirements.”

In seeing the whole picture, Ingham Agencies understands the integral role they play in supporting the success of the region’s sugar industry, and are committed to supporting the professionals in the industry to fulfill their industrial and agricultural endeavours.

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Brian Richmond has confidently managed and coordinated the purchasing and retail sales department of Ingham Agencies for just over eight years where he has come to value the key role his position plays in the company’s daily operations.

In catering to the needs and requirements of customers across the state, Brian’s additional four years with Ingham Agencies allows him to navigate the position with ease, professionalism, and with a high level of expertise.

Having relocated to Ingham from Cardwell in 2012, Brian has held prior positions in mechanics, purchasing and retail, furthermore, providing him with additional opportunities for development and growth.

“Michael and Siobhan are good people to work for, and I have done it all - each day at Ingham Agencies is different, no two days are the same,” explained Brian.

Over the past twelve years, Brian enjoys the ever-shifting day-to-day dynamics of Ingham Agencies, understanding each day presents a world of new challenges, opportunities and responsibilities to take on.

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For an impressive three decades, Ingham Agencies & Queensland Steel and Equipment has been a trusted provider of agricultural and industrial supplies across Ingham, Tully, and the broader regions of North and Far North Queensland. Established in 1994, this family-owned and locally operated business is synonymous with quality products, excellent service, and prompt delivery options.

Diverse Product Offerings
Ingham Agencies boasts an extensive inventory tailored to meet the demands of agriculture, engineering, and industrial sectors. From hydraulic hoses and fittings to welding equipment, batteries, trailer parts, cleaning fluids, and tools, the range is designed to cater to businesses and individuals alike. A key highlight is their variety of high-grade steel products, including RHS, pipes, bars, plates, mesh, beams, and more. These materials support projects of any scale, offering options such as stainless steel, aluminium, and galvanised varieties.
Additionally, their engineering workshop provides customised solutions, including hole punching and the fabrication of bespoke components like cattle ramps.

Specialised Categories
Harvester Parts
The business is a one-stop shop for harvester components, offering a range of products such as blades, chopper knives, base cutter blades, elevator chains, and bearings. These parts ensure peak performance for agricultural machinery, helping customers maintain efficiency and productivity.

Bearings and Seals
Their comprehensive range of hydraulic seals, O-rings, and bearings caters to various applications, ensuring equipment operates smoothly.

Building Materials
Builders and renovators can access materials such as corrugated and trim deck sheeting, purlins, chain wire mesh, star pickets, gates, and roofing screws. These products support construction projects with durability and reliability.

Automotive and Trailer Supplies
Vehicle owners and operators benefit from their range of oils, lubricants, filters, coolants, cleaning agents, and essential trailer parts. Truck safety signs and sugar-dissolving oils are among the niche offerings that highlight the company’s attention to industry-specific needs.

Hardware and Tools
The general hardware section features wheels, castors, adhesives, grinding disks, and material handling equipment. Their selection of hand and power tools includes cordless combo kits, air tools, and toolboxes, perfect for professionals and DIY enthusiasts.

Power and Safety Equipment
Generators, pressure cleaners, and compressors form part of their power equipment line-up, while fire extinguishers, PPE, safety signs, and spill kits ensure a safe working environment.

Services and Manufacturing
Beyond retail, Ingham Agencies excels in manufacturing components like harvester blades, rippers, and fertiliser worms. Their ability to fabricate purlin cleats, angle brackets, and vida plate strips further enhances their reputation as a versatile solutions provider.

Customer Commitment
The team at Ingham Agencies is dedicated to offering high-quality products, tailored advice, and outstanding customer service. Their vast inventory, coupled with an in-house engineering workshop, allows them to address a wide array of industrial and agricultural challenges.

For businesses and individuals seeking dependable supplies and services, Ingham Agencies & Queensland Steel and Equipment is the region’s trusted partner, delivering solutions that help North Queensland thrive.

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Neil Roberts has held an integral role in the daily operations of Ingham Agencies since 2008, and prides himself on his adaptability to move with the company’s fast paced environment and continuous advancements.

Coordinating and overseeing the company’s transportation operations, Neil manages all dispatch and receiving processes to ensure Ingham Agencies continues serving the East Coast of Australia.

“I’ve been in this position for five years and with the company for sixteen years, and I bring a lot of skills from my past careers to my current job, and I enjoy keeping my end up,” shared Neil.

Prior to joining the team, Neil’s previous career in engineering granted him a world of experience and opportunities to build upon and expand both his skillset and knowledge base, furthermore, making him a valuable asset to Ingham Agencies. Having lived in both Tully and Ayr before relocating to Ingham in the early 2000’s, Neil holds a unique understanding of the areas Ingham Agencies services outside of the immediate community.

“Sometimes, just prior to the cane season, the pressure is enormous, with so many people requiring products to get machines ready and running the best they can, and part of my job is making sure each of those bits and pieces get where they need to go, and its satisfying watching the company grow,” added Neil.

In his current position, Neil ensures each customer’s needs are meet in a timely, and organised manner and prioritises acknowledging the same high standards of operation and customer service set by Michael’s parents thirty years ago.

“Ingham Agencies sources products from all over the world, and for a small company, their reach is quite large,” explained Neil.

“I have noticed this company has grown exponentially - it seems to be growing each year, and I think it’s a thriving business that’s just going to keep growing stronger.”

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Di Bella Produce and Farming is a family-owned, family-run business situated in Ingham. The Di Bella’s believe that business diversity is critical in agriculture to ride through the ups and downs found in agriculture, when dealing with weather, markets, pests and diseases, etc.

Lawrence Di Bella originally established a seed business in 2000, but handed the business over to his friend Tom Gilbert, to grow the business, whilst Lawrence and his wife Anna raised their young family.

Tom retired in 2019, and Lawrence, Anna and Hayden Di Bella decided to re-purchase the seed business to see it thrive and continue to grow it.

“We are at a point now where we have grown large enough that we actually have to grow our own seed to meet our client’s demand,” explained Lawrence.

“Last year was our first year of growing and we grew 12.8 tonne, it was our first attempt, and we grew that in the Burdekin.

“This year we have had almost over 90 tonne of seed that we have grown in the Ingham and the Burdekin areas under contract with other growers. This seed will be sold over the next few months throughout Queensland and NSW.”

Last year they sold seed to as far north as Humpty Doo in the Northern Territory, to as far south as central New South Wales.

Whilst selling Australia wide, Di Bella Produce and Farming’s main group of clients are located in Ingham and Tully area.

What sets Di Bella Produce and Farming apart from other businesses is that they also offer agronomic advice too.

“We don't just buy and sell seed. We are actually there to provide agronomic advice and support that goes with the seed,” said Lawrence.

“That's what makes us a little bit different.

“We look at what plant species will suit each situation. For example, if a farmer is growing a mixed fallow legume crop, we will look at what is the optimum mix for their soil type and conditions.”

“Our Northern Territory growers are actually more veggie growers or into regenerative cropping systems.

“If there's any disease pressures, they can have a chat with me about what is the disease and how to manage it their vegetable crops.

“We also do pasture where we actually work out pasture is best for the cattle or horses.”

Lawrence is an agronomist with three tertiary qualifications. Years of experience and being involved with trials undertaken by various universities and the CRC Soils over his working career, has allowed him to develop a wealth of knowledge.  Di Bella Produce and Farming has also undertaken trials on its farms to access different plant species and their suitability.

Di Bella Produce and Farming is now a diversified farming business growing sugarcane and horticultural crops, seed sales, farm machinery contracting and agriculture consulting through Tropical Agricultural Services.

Lawrence and Anna are the owners, with their children Hayden, Nicholas and Gemma all employed in the business in different roles and capacities.

The family love working in their agriculture business, and they’re excited to see what the future entails as they keep growing and expanding the business.

Lawrence Di Bella and Anna Di Bella, Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

QCAR Herbert River District Administration Officer Anna Di Bella took this stunning photo on her farm last week

This week
Season to date
Cane crushed
Victoria
95,740
2,326,846
Macknade
44,549
1,169,829
Total
140,289
3,496,675
Crop forecast
3.9M
This week
Season to date
District CCS
12.03
12.52
Cane variety performance for region
Variety
%
CCS
Variety
%
CCS
Q253
29.6
11.33
SRA14
2.6
11.40
Q208
19.0
12.84
Q250
2.4
11.57
Q200
11.2
13.28
Q242
1.9
11.35
Q232
9.9
11.77
Q226
1.8
11.24
Q240
6.8
11.86
SRA5
1.4
11.60
Comments:
Just over 140,000 tonnes of cane were crushed for the week, bringing the season-to-date total to almost 3.5M tonnes.
The average weekly CCS was 12.03, which is down from last week’s 12.25 units.
Further rainfall is forecast for later in the week. Please stay in contact with the operations centre if there are any issues with cane supply.
Please continue to use your train brain and always take care around our cane rail network. Our cane trains operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Chris Winship
Cane Supply Manager
Herbert Region

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Farmers, AgTech innovators and industry stakeholders in Queensland’s agricultural sector are being encouraged to take part in the first-ever First Nations-led AgTech showcase being held in North Queensland on 10-11 February 2025, with expressions of interest now open. 
 
The Millennia of Ag-Innovation event, facilitated by the Tropical North Queensland Drought Resilience Adoption and Innovation Hub (TNQ Drought Hub) in collaboration with key partners, will explore the intersection of traditional knowledge and cutting-edge agricultural technologies. 
 
The showcase held in Cairns aims to highlight groundbreaking First Nations initiatives and demonstrate how the fusion of traditional practices with modern AgTech can drive sustainable advancements across the sector.
 
TNQ Drought Hub Director Professor David Phelps said the Millennia of Ag-Innovation event, which is being funded by AgriFutures Australia, is part of a larger effort to spotlight First Nations innovation and collaboration within the industry.
 
“The Millennia of Ag-Innovation event aims to bring together First Nations farmers, contemporary producers, and AgTech developers to advance sustainable agricultural practices and showcase the innovative technologies shaping the future of our region,” said Professor Phelps. 
 
“It offers a unique opportunity for attendees to connect with key players in both the agriculture and AgTech sectors, while gaining insights into the crucial role traditional knowledge plays in promoting sustainable practices. 
 
“With a program covering livestock, cropping, and aquaculture, the event offers valuable opportunities for learning, innovation, and sustainable growth for both farmers and AgTech developers alike.”
 
The event will feature live AgTech showcases, installations and interactive workshops, culminating in a cultural evening hosted by Local Indigenous Food Enterprise Services and BushTukkaWoman, Samantha Martin with a traditional dinner and performance by the Gimuy Yidinji tribe.
 
Attendees will also explore Indigenous-led innovations at the Rainstick facility, a networking breakfast at James Cook University’s Ideas Lab, and demonstrations of TEKFARM’s cutting-edge on-farm deployments across the Cairns Hinterland.
 
The event is part of a pre-tour for evokeAG, the Asia-Pacific’s premier agricultural and food technology event, taking place in Brisbane on 18-19 February 2025.
 
Rainstick co-founder Darryl Lyons highlighted the significance of the Cairns-based showcase in attracting national delegates to Tropical North Queensland.
 
“EvokeAg is such a hub for industry connection and collaboration, so having the Millennia of Ag-Innovation event offered as a pre-tour option will help to further solidify the region’s reputation as a leader in agricultural innovation,” said Mr Lyons.
 
“It’s an exciting opportunity to welcome both national and international delegates and showcase the breadth of what Far North Queensland has to offer, including world-leading technology inspired by First Nations innovation.”
 
Professor Phelps noted that there are still opportunities to get involved with the event, whether as a presenter, sponsor, or attendee.
 
“We’re encouraging anyone interested in contributing to this one-of-a-kind event to consider the various ways you can get involved,” he said. 
 
“Whether you’re looking to be a speaker, sponsor, exhibitor, or simply attend, it provides a valuable opportunity to connect with key stakeholders and showcase the remarkable Indigenous innovation happening in Tropical North Queensland.”

EOI for sponsorship, exhibitors, and speakers is now open. Please contact Tony Matchett (TNQ Drought Hub): tony.matchett@jcu.edu.au 

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TNQ Drought Hub representatives at the 2024 evokeAG event in Brisbane earlier this year
TNQ Drought Hub Director - Professor David Phelps
The showcase aims to highlight groundbreaking First Nations initiatives and demonstrate how the fusion of traditional practices with modern AgTech can drive sustainable advancements across the sector
The event will spotlight First Nations Innovation at the Bush Tukka Park in Cairns in Feb 2025
Bush Tukka Park where the Cairns-based showcase will be taking place

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On the 26 November the Hinchinbrook Shire Council gathered in the council chambers for the November General Meeting.

During the meeting, Hinchinbrook Shire Council adopted the 2023-2024 Annual Report, showcasing a year of achievements, community resilience, and forward thinking strategies to support growth and prosperity in the region.

Highlights of the year included the successful delivery of vital infrastructure projects, vibrant community initiatives, and plans to address key challenges such as housing demand and workforce development.

The report reflects Council’s dedication to enhancing liveability and economic opportunities while preserving the Shire’s natural beauty.

Key achievements included:

• Infrastructure upgrades - projects such as the Orient Road Water Main Extension, Herbert Street revitalisation, and Forrest Beach drainage improvements have strengthened the region’s resilience and liveability

• Population growth – Council welcomed 49 new babies at the Underwater Wonderland Baby Welcoming Ceremony, the highest in the event’s history, reflecting an upward population trend

• Sustainability initiatives - rooftop solar installations and a new waste cell at Warrens Hill Landfill and Resource Recovery Centre are advancing Council’s sustainability goals

• Economic development - the Local Housing Strategy and Development Incentive Schemes are paving the way for new housing projects to meet community needs.

Mayor Ramon Jayo expressed pride in the Shire’s progress, stating, “This year has been one of collaboration and innovation, as we strive to make Hinchinbrook a destination of choice for residents and visitors. With events, increased housing developments, and a commitment to sustainability, we are shaping a stronger future for our community.”

Council acknowledged the hurdles faced during the year, including skilled workforce shortages and rising operational costs. Innovative solutions, such as the development of a Regional University Hub and targeted training programs, aim to bridge these gaps while fostering local talent.

The report highlights the success of marquee events like Tasman Turtle’s Big Day Out, Mega Movie Weekends and Queensland Seniors Week, which brought residents together in celebration and strengthened the Shire’s vibrant community identity.

As Hinchinbrook continues to grow, Council is committed to transparency, accountability, and working together with stakeholders to meet future needs.

To view the 2023-2024 Annual Report, please visit Council’s website, Corporate Publications and Reports page.

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Hinchinbrook Shire Councillors and Mayor at the November General Meeting. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Last Tuesday the first edition of Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper was launched and, to thank all the Founding Advertising Partners for their support, the newspaper hosted a special celebratory breakfast at Lee’s Hotel in Ingham.

Attendees were among the first to cast their eyes on the new Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper, and local Journalist Daniel Heggie said he was thrilled by the response.

“It is great to hear the wonderful comments, and we hope to continue to provide this level of gratification every week,” he shared.

Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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As Christmas approaches and the time to be with family arrives Mick’s Bread Kitchen is ready to cater for all your needs.

This holiday season Mick’s Bread Kitchen is offering various Christmas treats to get the community in the festive spirit.

The moist and flavourful Christmas fruit cake is bound to be a popular choice, they also have rum balls, apricot balls, assorted Christmas cookies, and co-owner Simone Stanta said she will be creating rocky road in the following days.

Simone also mentioned that there will be specially crafted Christmas gift packs with a mixture of everything, creating an easy option that is bound to impress that special someone.

Mick’s Bread Kitchen can also cater for Christmas parties, offering a variety of choices for that are ideal for small or large gatherings.

All Christmas goodies, aside from the cookies, are freshly baked in store. Customers can enjoy the taste of real authentic home-made flavoursome treats that are made with love and a deep desire to feed the community with joy.

Simone loves Christmas, she loves spending time with her family and being surrounded by good food.

Mick’s Bread Kitchen has been owned by Simone and her husband Michael since 1990, and this year they celebrated their 34th year in business.

Over the years they have entered and won many awards in various meat pie competitions, including the Great Aussie Meat Pie Competition.

Simone said that the competition gave them so much confidence in their delicious pies and that they apply a similar standard to everything they do.

“We don't compete. We set the standard,” said Simone. “We try and keep a high standard across the board on everything we do.”

Christmas Opening Hours:
LAST OPEN DAY – Monday 23 December
RE-OPEN – Monday 20 January

Co-owner Simone Stanta from Mick’s Bread Kitchen holding one of their delicious Christmas fruit cakes. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
Simone Stanta and one of the must-try Christmas Fruit Cakes from Mick’s Bread Kitchen. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Meredith Yeoman’s magical Floral Stitches Thread Art and Macra Weave exhibition is currently gracing the walls of Ingham’s TYTO Regional Art Gallery until Friday 20 December.
Meredith found her love for the unusual and intricate artform whilst enjoying retirement, and in early 2021, she undertook an embroidery course to explore her passion further.
“As you do with workshops and courses – you do them, then you put them aside, but towards the end of 2021 I picked the art up again, and have just really run with it ever since,” explained Meredith.
Intricately created on a sewing machine on dissolvable fabric, each of Meredith’s pieces are completed and then placed into water to be moulded and sculpted into the finished product. A niche artform, Meredith’s Floral Stitches exhibition at the gallery began in early November and stands as the first time her artwork has been displayed in this capacity.
“I have entered singular pieces into competitions including last year’s Hinchinbrook Art Awards where I received a lot of interest in my piece as it’s not something you come across every day, and from there, I found the opportunity for an exhibition at TYTO,” added Meredith.
To mark the official debut of her display, Meredith held an Artist Talk on Saturday 9 November, where a few ladies joined her for a guided demonstration of her beautiful creations.
Now almost four weeks into her showcase, Meredith’s art pieces have received much attention from gallery patrons with plenty of “oos and ahhs” of amazement being heard as viewers explore her work.
Meredith and her husband relocated to Saunders Beach in June of 2020 to enjoy retirement, and with her newfound passion and creative talents, Meredith runs regular workshops to allow others to explore their interests, explaining her hobby has transformed into a fulltime job.
“I’ve turned to art very late in my life but I’m thoroughly enjoying it,” shared Meredith.
“If you find something that you’re passionate about and that you love it’s not a chore.”

What: Meredith’s Floral Stitches Exhibition.
When: Monday to Saturday until Friday 20 December.
Where: Ingham’s TYTO Regional Art Gallery.

Meredith Yeoman opened her exhibition in November with an Artist Talk and demonstration.

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Queensland introduces New Lifejacket Regulations to Boost Maritime Safety. The
new lifejacket regulations came into effect across the state on Sunday 1 December, 2024 as part of the Queensland Government’s initiative to increase maritime safety.

Although enforcement of these new laws will be delayed until 1 July 2025, the Queensland Government advises boaters to understand and abide by these changes to stay safe and compliant on the water.

“We will be focusing on education, with enforcement delayed until 1 July 2025, to ensure all boaties are aware of the change,” said a Maritime Safety Queensland spokesperson.

In the interest of increasing water safety, the new regulations will make wearing a lifejacket mandatory in the following circumstances:
   • Boating alone, or only with children under 12 years on an open boat less than 4.8m in length whilst underway.
   • Crossing designated coastal bars on an open ship, and on an open area of a boat of any length, and on certain craft.
   • Children one year or more and under 12 years are on an open boat or an open area of a boat of any length whilst underway.
   • Nighttime boating, between sunset and sunrise on any open boat less than 4.8m in length whilst underway.

The rules apply to a plethora of boats and crafts (excluding body boards, and stand-up paddle boards), like small sailboats, pedal boats, rafts (including inflatables), rowboats (except Club Surfboards by Surf Life Saving Australia), and sea kayaks.

The legislative change hopes to bring Queensland in line with the safety standards observed in other states, with the Queensland Government stating the change hopes to ensure you, your passengers and your loved ones get home safely.

Within the last 5 years, there were 64 boating fatalities in Queensland, and only 5 were known to be wearing their lifejacket at the time of the incident. Studies have concluded time and time again that children, and those boating alone, at night or crossing coastal bars are at the highest risk of drowning at sea.

To access up to date and relevant information on legislative changes and maritime safety, please visit www.msq.qld.gov.au.

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New lifejacket laws came into effect across Queensland on 1 December 2024.

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As of today, the Hinchinbrook Region has a new free weekly community newspaper, and it is largely thanks to all the people on the front page of this first edition.

Free weekly newspapers are supported by the local business community and each business you read about in this publication is a local champion, they are the reason this newspaper has been made possible.

The Founding Advertising Partners, a group of local business owners who have all contributed to starting this newspaper. Photo credit: Rachael Smith.

Guided By Council, Brought To You By The Business Community

A positive and proactive Council is at the heart of every dynamic community and that has certainly been true for the Hinchinbrook Shire Regional Council which has been the driving force behind re-instating a dedicated local newspaper for the region.

Earlier this year, Mayor Ramon Jayo was visiting his friend and former Burdekin Mayor, Lyn McLaughlin, when he picked up a copy of Burdekin Life Newspaper.

“I grabbed a copy and brought it up here,” Mayor Jayo recalls, commenting that he loved the look of the paper and wished his community had something similar.

“A few days later, I was at the Volunteers Recognition Ceremony,” he added.

“Mrs Elena Mason came up to me and explained she’d just been on holiday to the Whitsundays and brought back a copy of the Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper – I noticed it was the same – that’s when I decided to get in touch.”

Burdekin Life Newspaper and Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper are part of a small, independent and family-owned business called Life Publishing Group which was established in the Whitsundays almost 15 years ago.

During this time, they have been producing two glossy magazines – a lifestyle publication named Core Life and a travel magazine entitled Tripping - both still exist today.

Four years ago, however, when the company heard that the printed version of 14 regional newspapers were being closed overnight and moved online, they decided to take action.

“We were determined to bring the community back their free voice in print,” said co-owner Rebecca Douthwaite.

“Every community deserves to have access to free local news – whether it’s the sporting results, real estate information, events and entertainment, and of course things like the funeral notices.

“Living in a regional area means many people are not online as much as they are in the cities, this makes the regional newspapers more important than they have ever been.”

In May this year, Mayor Jayo called Life Publishing Group’s Editor in Chief, Rachael Smith, and asked if the company would be interested in starting a newspaper in the region.

“When I received the call, I was very excited,” said Ms Smith.

“He called while Bec and I were at the Queensland Country Press Awards conference and later that night we won Best Free Newspaper in Queensland for Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper.

“I think this was a good omen!”

By August this year, Rebecca and Rachael attended a Council meeting at the local Council Chambers and they were excited to see the warmth and welcoming response to the newspaper, both at the meeting and when they spoke to local business owners.

“When we launched Burdekin Life Newspaper the year before it was because we were also invited by the local community,” shared Rachael.

“It is a wonderful feeling to be invited and gives a bigger meaning to what we are trying to achieve.

“Right from the beginning we wanted to give regional communities back their free voice in print – we want to help people feel connected, we want to help preserve history as it’s happening and every single person in our team deeply cares about the community.

“We would like to thank all of our Founding Advertising Partners for being part of the group of local businesses which have enabled a dedicated local newspaper to return, without them, this would not have been possible.”

“I would also like to thank Mayor Jayo and Deputy Mayor Mary Brown who have both been instrumental in bringing this publication to life.”

Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper comes out every Tuesday and is free for the community with 3000 copies published every week.

The newspaper is available at 15 dedicated distribution stands and over 50 other pick-up points from Ingham and surrounding townships through to Cardwell and Rollingstone.

The entire publication is also available for free online every week.

Councillors Andrew Carr and Pat Lynch, Deputy Mayor Mary Brown, Mayor Ramon Jayo, Councillors Donna Marbelli, Kate Milton and Mark Spina. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

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Hi Everyone

Welcome to the first edition of Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper, it is an absolute honour to bring a newspaper back to the Hinchinbrook community.

My name is Daniel and I will be the go-to guy for everything involving Hinchinbrook. In March of this year, I moved from Adelaide to the Whitsundays, where I have been a Cadet Journalist for Whitsunday Life Newspaper, up until now.

When our Editor-In-Chief, Rachael Smith, asked me if I would like to be part of the launch team for Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper, I said yes almost immediately.

I was eager to take on the responsibility and to meet the Hinchinbrook community, which I was told was lovely.

And, now that I’ve spent a week in the community, I couldn’t agree more!

From my short time in the region already everyone has been incredibly accepting, encouraging, welcoming and warm - thank you all so much for this.

Whilst I am the man here in region, I cannot do anything I do without the amazing team that we have, from Rachael to our Sales Manager Trish (who many of you have already met) to our fantastic Production Manager, Crissy.

I would also like to acknowledge my fellow journalist, Chelsea Ravizza, who is from the Burdekin and will be working with me to write a lot of this newspaper. We also have our Mackay Editor, Amanda Wright, who will be overseeing our in-depth weekly rural section.

In addition, we also have a wonderful team in our central office - Ruby who works as social media manager and production, Ruth our Whitsunday journalist and our three amazing graphic designers Taylor, Lara and Marc.

Lastly, I would like to thank our owners Bec and Paul for providing me with this amazing opportunity.

I cannot wait to learn more about the region and would love your help. If you have a story idea please reach out, and please enjoy this first edition of Hinchinbrook Life.

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Coming into the Christmas season, it’s important to think about those that are less fortunate than us, and once again, the incredible team at Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre are helping people who need it most.

For as long as the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre can remember they have donated gifts to vulnerable families over the Christmas period.

This initiative is supported by the Hinchinbrook Shire Council via The Mayor’s Appeal.

Members of the public, schools, churches, other not for profit organisations, big corporations, and local businesses are all encouraged get behind it.

Chief Executive Officer of the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre says she loves that the community continue to support the appeal.

“It's amazing we have such a generous community here, with both their time and their money,” said Linda.

“Around this time of year we have people ringing up asking how they can help, walking in the door with donations to contribute – it’s wonderful to see so many people care!

“Often there will be grandparents bringing their grandchildren and encouraging generosity through the generations.”

Every year the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre organise presents for around 100 people, ranging from families to single people and couples. All of whom are experiencing financial hardship.

Last year 20 large boxes of gifts were given away to the community, allowing all to enjoy a festive period.

With the huge ongoing support from the local community, the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre would like to say thank you to everyone for their donations.

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Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre have already started wrapping in preparation. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Originally from New South Wales, Harley Magennis has become a bit of an Ingham celebrity, regularly stopping for chats with the many friendly faces he sees around town.

But did you know that Harley is one of Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper’s new distributors?

We caught up with Harley as he was preparing for his new role, and he said he is excited to get started.

Harley loves talking to everybody in town, stopping for friendly conversations, and it is credentials like these that made him a perfect candidate for the newspaper delivery job.

As a local, Harley said he is looking forward to reading Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper and that he is eager to read a newspaper that contains news from the Hinchinbrook region.

Having extremely good social skills is something that Harley already has, but distributing this paper will allow him to further those skills.

When Harley isn’t distributing papers, you can find him playing darts at the local club house or you can find him on the jetty in Lucinda doing his favourite activity, fishing.

Harley is extremely excited for his new job, if you see him around town be sure to say hello to him and pick up a copy of the brand-new Hinchinbrook Life newspaper while you are at it.

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Harley Magennis is keen for his new role as a Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper Distributor. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Hinchinbrook Shire residents will be thrilled to see a dedicated printed local newspaper circulating our district once again. I’m sure many would agree, we have missed reading a region-specific paper that is focused solely on the Herbert District.

Local papers do more than just report the news – they help bind a community together. For a region like ours, it’s crucial to have a platform where we can share our victories, address the challenges, and keep informed about the things important to us.

The Hinchinbrook Life sets out to provide our community with a direct line to stay connected and engaged with what’s happening across every corner of Hinchinbrook.

As a weekly contributor, I will be using the Hinchinbrook Life to share updates on the work we are doing in Parliament, to highlight key local issues, and keep you informed on progress regarding policy and projects important to our community.

Having a dedicated, local publication will mean communications from our office, that are pivotal to the Hinchinbrook Shire part of the electorate can be more focused and specific.

This edition of Hinchinbrook Life coincides with the first parliamentary sitting week of the 58th Parliament of Queensland, the first since the October election, which I will be attending.

The week will begin with formalities and the swearing-in ceremony. After the initial two days of formalities, proceedings will commence as per usual. I’m already looking forward to the first round of Question Time and the introduction of bills.

As your re-elected Member for Hinchinbrook, I would like to reaffirm my commitment to every one of you. I’m committed to using my time in the office and parliament to advocate for legislative and policy changes that directly affect the way we live, work and play here in North Queensland. I will continue to fight for the infrastructure necessary to support the liveability and growth of our region.
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Nick Dametto MP
Member for Hinchinbrook

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Aerial control of the feral pig population within the Hinchinbrook Shire will commence in December, with the support of the Council, Department of Environment, Science and Innovation, and the Department of Resources.

An increasing area of concern, the feral pigs have directly caused damage to local ecosystems and agricultural land. The aerial shoot will target areas under the management of participating landholders and organisations, spanning from Forrest Beach in the north to Crystal Creek in the south.

The operation is scheduled to take place on Monday, 2 December, and Tuesday, 3 December, between 5am and 7pm each day, weather permitting.

For public safety, certain areas will be temporarily closed during the shoot, and access to the National Parks Estate, Bronte Road, and the Halifax Bay Wetlands will be restricted during the operation hours. However, access to huts on Bronte Road will remain available outside of the planned control times.

The aim of the aerial shoot is to manage the feral pig population in a controlled manner, reducing their numbers and minimising the damage caused to the local environment.

For more information or to clarify any concerns regarding the program, members of the public are encouraged to contact the Council’s Biosecurity Team at 4776 4800.

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Dear Sponsors, Community Members, and the Maraka Committee,

On behalf of the Maraka Committee, I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering support and dedication to the success of the 2024 Maraka Festival.

A special thank you to our esteemed judges: Emma Oliveri from Ergon Energy, Chris McHugh from Mission Beach Ex-Serviceman, and Ellie Knight from 3 RAR. Your commitment to traveling to Ingham and dedicating your time for the Maraka Queen and Princess quests is immensely appreciated.

Congratulations to our Maraka Queen, Montana Bain, and to our runner-up, Johanna Buckle, along with Rachel Hallam, who was awarded Miss Personality. A heartfelt congratulations also to Hazel Cary, crowned Maraka Princess 2024, and Millie Bartolini, our runner-up.

We also want to acknowledge all our wonderful contestants: Briella McLaughlin, Sophie Henderson, Mariah Foster, Yasi Briody, Mikayla Marmara, Jessie Bell, Millie Bartolini, Aurora Blewitt, Tilly Pappin, Maliah Bailey, and Hazel Cary.

Your participation enriches our community spirit.

We are deeply grateful to our Diamond Sponsors: Hinchinbrook Shire Council, Windlab Pty Ltd, Wilmar Sugar, and Triple M. Your generous support has been crucial to our festival's success.

Our Platinum Sponsors, NQIB, Royal Hotel, Townsville Lime & Gypsum, and Carey Group, as well as our Gold and Silver Sponsors also deserve our sincere thanks for their ongoing commitment.

I would like to acknowledge the hard work of our service clubs—Rotary Club of Hinchinbrook Inc, Lions Club of Ingham, Lions Club of Lower Herbert, and Apex Australia—as well as our dedicated Maraka Committee volunteers. Your countless hours of effort do not go unnoticed and are essential in making the festival a reality.

To the Hinchinbrook Community, thank you for your incredible support. Together, we celebrate the spirit of Maraka!

We would also appreciate your feed back please see the attached Q Code.

Contributed with thanks to President Patrick Lynch

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Residents of the Hinchinbrook region are invited to attend a community event aimed at raising awareness about proposed industrial developments in the Mount Fox area. Organised by Rainforest Reserves Australia, the event will feature the premiere of a new short film highlighting the potential impact of these projects on the Mount Fox Wet Tropics region.

The free event will take place on Wednesday, 4 December, at the Hinchinbrook Shire Hall from 6pm to 8pm. Attendees will have the chance to learn of the implications of large-scale industrial energy complexes planned for the area, including a Battery Energy Storage system and surrounding wind turbines up to 300 meters high.

“The implications of this project extend beyond Mount Fox, linking to several industrial wind and solar developments,” added Rainforest Reserves Australia’s Carolyn Emms.

“The Michael Creek Valley Action Group is currently challenging the Hinchinbrook Council's approval, which has sparked considerable concern within the community, especially given the numerous objections that have been raised.”

The Michael Creek Valley Action Group has been vocal in its efforts, emphasising the importance of community involvement in protecting the region’s unique ecosystems.

“The beauty and uniqueness of the Mount Fox area is in danger with this proposed development,” explained Michael Creek Valley Action Group Chairperson, Kim Armstrong.

“We are aware we are not the only community being subjected to inappropriate land use, and habitat destruction associated with renewable energy developments, and we need to make the public aware of the real costs and devastation they are causing.”

The film premiere serves as a platform to amplify these concerns and encourage residents to take action.

“We’re excited to support the Michael Creek Valley Action Group Mount Fox, in their efforts to preserve the Mount Fox region,” said Carolyn.

What: Save Mount Fox from Industrialisation Movie Premier.
When: Wednesday, 4 December, 6pm to 8pm.
Where: Hinchinbrook Shire Hall, 25 Lannercost Street.
More Information: Email info@rainforestreserves.org.au.

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The future of Mount Fox is currently under great discussion among the wider community, with locals invited to attend a short film screening on Wednesday 4 December.

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The Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce held their Annual General Meeting (AGM) last Wednesday 20 November, with Member for Hinchinbrook Nick Dametto in attendance on the night.

At the AGM the executive committee were re-elected and are as followed:

President: Mary Brown
Vice-President: Peter Reitano
Treasurer: Siobhan Pelleri
Secretary: Debbie Camp
 
The new Committee Members are: Sam Torrisi, Ted Cogger and Christina Spencer.

Mary Brown issued a President’s Report during the AGM and touched on several key initiatives Chamber have been involved with over the year.

In November/December of 2023 the Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the Hinchinbrook Shire Council, Mayor other sponsors launched the new ‘Shop & Win’ initiative.

The Chamber was pleased to report that, in 2024 the project met with great success with many businesses feeling more support as visitors and locals were encouraged to shop locally.

In May 2024 Chamber managed to deliver an Agricultural Machinery Operator training course. Eleven candidates participated in the course and eleven of them subsequently gained employment.

In other Chamber news, building on the success of the 2023 Markets at the Mosaic, Chamber continued to grow these markets in the last calendar year.

‘Shop The Hinchinbrook Way’ is another initiative managed by Chamber and operated in partnership with Hinchinbrook Shire Council and other major sponsors.

With a marketing campaign to encourage and promote locals and visitors to support local businesses, Chamber were pleased to report that sponsorship grew to a value $13,000 ahead of the event this year.

Chamber also continued their ‘Whole of Shire’ radio promotion discussing Retail & Food, Accommodation, Marine & Beaches, and Nature.

Chamber’s social media profile also increased this year, mainly thanks to Christina Spencer and all of her work in Administration and Social Media Management.

From now on the Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce has said they will be hosting more informal occasions, with formalities talked about first, followed by informal chit-chat/networking.

If you would like to join the Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce reach out to the team. You can call 4776 0090 or go to hinchinbrookchamber.com.au.

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The 2024-2025 Executive Committee: Vice President Peter Reitano, Secretary Debbie Camp, Treasurer Siobhan Pelleri, and President Mary Brown.

(BACK ROW) State Member for Hinchinbrook Nick Dametto, Ted Cogger, Vice President Peter Reitano, President Mary Brown, and Sam Torrisi. (FRONT ROW) – Secretary Debbie Camp, Christina Spencer, and Treasurer Siobhan Pelleri.

Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Ready to launch your career while gaining a nationally recognised qualification?
Council’s 2025 Apprentice and Trainee Program is here to help you take the next step toward a brighter future.
This exciting initiative offers on the job experience, structured training, and a chance to earn while you learn, all without racking up study debt.
Whether you are passionate about technology, business, or skilled trades, there is a place for you in our team.
Available positions:
Information Technology Traineeship – Certificate III in Information Technology;
Business Traineeship – Certificate III in Business;
Apprentice Plumber – Certificate III in Plumbing; and
Apprentice Fitter and Turner – Certificate III in Engineering - Mechanical Trade.
 
Applications close 5.00pm Friday 29 November 2024.
Interested applicants must submit a cover letter, address the Selection Criteria and complete the Recruitment Eligibility Form. To apply, please visit Council’s website, Careers at Council page. For further information regarding the 2025 Apprentice and Trainee Program, please contact Council’s Human Resources Team on 4776 4632.

 
(Left to Right) Council's Human Resources Administration Trainee Amaya Fortini who is currently undertaking a Certificate IV in Business Administration and Council's Human Resources Manager Jodi Spencer.
 
Hinchinbrook’s Bold Step Toward a Brighter Future
Regional University Study Hub Application
Council is advancing toward a game changing opportunity for local education and workforce development, as its application for the 2024 Regional University Study Hubs Program progresses to the assessment stage. This initiative aims to establish a Country Universities Centre (CUC) co-located at the TAFE Queensland North Ingham Campus, creating a vital educational lifeline for the region.
CUC Hinchinbrook seeks funding for both its infrastructure and operations from 2024 through to 2028, with an ambitious goal to bridge Hinchinbrook’s educational and workforce gaps. As a community-driven and community owned organisation, CUC Hinchinbrook would bring regional residents closer to accessible, high quality tertiary education.
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A Region Ready for Change
Hinchinbrook Shire is grappling with a unique set of challenges. The local workforce, while increasingly qualified, has seen most growth in certificate level qualifications, lagging behind Queensland’s regional average in professional occupations. At the same time, migration patterns show younger residents leaving for larger cities while older populations grow, a trend that leaves industries struggling to attract skilled workers from outside.
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Grow Your Own Skilled Workforce
The proposed Regional University Study Hub aligns with Hinchinbrook’s “Grow Your Own Skilled Workforce” strategy, which focuses on equipping residents with the skills required to support local industries. With projections from Oxford Economics Australia indicating that 90% of individuals aged 25 to 34 will need tertiary qualifications by 2050, the timing for such an initiative is crucial.
CUC Hinchinbrook would not only address immediate skill gaps but also prepare residents for emerging opportunities in sustainable farming, low carbon agriculture, and agricultural data analysis fields that align with Hinchinbrook’s agricultural strengths.
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A Game Changer for Education Access
The challenges of pursuing higher education in Hinchinbrook are well documented geographic isolation, financial constraints, technological barriers, and limited awareness all play a role in hindering access. The Regional University Study Hub promises to tackle these head on, offering localised academic resources, financial assistance, and comprehensive support services.
More than just a facility, CUC Hinchinbrook would foster a culture of learning and community engagement, empowering residents to achieve their aspirations while fuelling the region’s economic growth.
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A Vision for Hinchinbrook’s Future
Hinchinbrook’s application with the Regional University Study Hub Program is more than a request for funding, it’s a declaration of intent to transform the region’s future. By investing in education and skills, the Hinchinbrook Shire Council aims to build a robust, self sustaining workforce that meets the demands of a rapidly evolving economy.
As the application moves to the next stage of assessment, hopes are high that the proposed study hub will become a cornerstone of Hinchinbrook’s growth, setting the stage for a more equitable, prosperous, and resilient community.
The final decision is anticipated in early 2025, with successful applicants to be announced by February 2024. If approved, CUC Hinchinbrook is expected to open its doors to students for Semester Two 2025, marking the beginning of a new era for education and opportunity in the Hinchinbrook region.
 
 

 
Council's Economic Development and Tourism Coordinator Julie Mac Pherson, Founder of Country Universities Centre Duncan Taylor, Director of Strategic Partnerships Country Universities Centre Paul Cranch and Councillor Mary Brown.

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It is with great excitement and privilege that I pen my first contribution to the new community newspaper – Hinchinbrook Life. There are many people who have contributed to bringing this weekly newsprint to life and I would like to express my deep gratitude to all those involved in any way.  A special thanks must go to every foundation member, whose financial commitment has enabled the vision of a community newspaper being returned to the Hinchinbrook Shire, to be realized.
As we approach the end of an exceptionally busy and challenging year within the Hinchinbrook district, it is a good time to reflect on what has been achieved in the area that is my portfolio –being Economic Development (including Tourism and Skills Development).
This year has seen a very strong focus by Council, in developing local training and skilling opportunities for residents. The major project being the development of a skills and training hub within the Shire.  
Council brings together on a monthly basis, representatives from local secondary schools, tertiary training providers, apprenticeship and workforce agencies, industry representatives and employers, through the Hinchinbrook Employment and Skills Development Reference Group. This group has identified many further education opportunities that could be pursued locally and has now submitted a funding application to establish a Regional University Hub, co-located with TAFE at their Ingham Campus. If this application is successful, many new and exciting study options will open to residents in 2025.
The school holidays and Christmas period is a time of year where visitors from around the region take the opportunity to explore neighboring communities and we welcome home family and friends to celebrate the festive season with loved ones. It is a wonderful time of year to renew friendships, welcome new residents and celebrate our community – Wishing everyone a wonderful Christmas in Hinchinbrook.

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The TYTO Wetlands is a haven for nature enthusiasts, boasting over 230 species of permanent and seasonal birds. With 4kms of well-maintained walking tracks, four dedicated bird viewing platforms, seating areas and diverse ecosystems, it offers a tranquil retreat for bird lovers and adventurers alike.
The diversity of birdlife at TYTO Wetlands is astounding, rivalling that of the iconic Kakadu National Park in the Northern Territory—yet it’s packed into an area 18,000 times smaller. Remarkably, this compact sanctuary is home to 27.4% of all Australian bird species in one location.
Visitors can enhance their experience with maps, bird lists, and local tips available at the Hinchinbrook Visitor Information Centre. Whether you're an avid birdwatcher, photographer, or simply enjoy the serenity of nature, TYTO Wetlands is an unmissable destination.

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