Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
The Cardwell RSL Sub Branch was once again delighted to welcome students and staff from Kennedy State School and Murray River Upper State School for its annual Remembrance Day sausage sizzle. The visit provided an opportunity for students to come together with local veterans and community members, enjoy a meal and learn more about the significance of Remembrance Day. During the gathering, students were given an address explaining the meaning of Remembrance Day, why Australians pause each year on November 11, and the importance of remembering those who have served and sacrificed in conflicts and peacekeeping operations. The occasion offered a valuable opportunity to pass this understanding on to younger generations, ensuring the stories, service and sacrifices of those who came before us are not forgotten. Behind the scenes, the Cardwell RSL volunteers were kept busy, with the ladies in the kitchen and the men on the barbecue working together to provide plenty of food for their visitors. It was a wonderful turnout, and the Sub Branch was pleased to ensure nobody went home hungry. The Cardwell RSL looks forward to welcoming students from Cardwell State School to its main Remembrance Day ceremony at the Cardwell Cenotaph, commencing at 11am on November 11. As the community ready's to gather to pay its respects, remember their sacrifice. Lest We Forget. WHAT: Cardwell Remembrance Day Ceremony WHEN: 11am, Wednesday, 11th November 2026 WHERE: Cardwell Cenotaph, Cardwell Kennedy State School and Murray River Upper State School at the Cardwell RSL. Photos supplied: Murray River Upper State School
Exploring The Human Side Of Disaster Recovery By Victoria Velton From building stronger support networks to understanding the emotional toll of disaster, women across North Queensland's agricultural sector gathered in Ingham to explore what it really takes to prepare, respond and recover. Disaster preparedness is often measured in practical terms: securing equipment, protecting property, preparing evacuation plans and getting businesses ready for the wet season. But what happens to the people behind those preparations? That was the focus of a Ladies in Agriculture workshop held at the TYTO Wetlands on Monday, 9th November, bringing together women from the sugarcane industry and other agricultural sectors for a day of learning, reflection and shared experiences. Led by Elizabeth McNaughton, founder of disaster recovery and training organisation Disastrous, alongside Canegrowers Industry Recovery and Resilience Officer Sarah Stevens, the workshop looked beyond the immediate response to disaster and explored the often complicated process of rebuilding lives, businesses and communities. Through group discussions, practical activities, card games and thought-provoking exercises, participants were encouraged to consider not only how they prepare for disaster, but how they support themselves and others through the aftermath. One of the strongest themes throughout the day was the importance of relationships. When disaster strikes, communities often come together quickly, with neighbours helping neighbours and people stepping forward wherever they are needed. However, Ms McNaughton explained that those connections are just as important long before an emergency occurs. "It's our connections, it's our relationships that get us through difficult times," she said. Encouraging participants to build what she described as a 'resilient address book', Ms McNaughton highlighted the value of knowing who to turn to, having trusted people around you and maintaining relationships that can provide support when circumstances become difficult. She also spoke about how quickly new relationships can form when people are brought together through shared challenges, and how different perspectives can help communities find their way forward. A significant part of the workshop explored the emotional stages people can experience following a disaster. Ms McNaughton described the initial response as the 'heroic phase', when people rally together, work tirelessly and put enormous energy into protecting others and restoring essential services. It is often a period of extraordinary community spirit, but there is a catch: recovery is rarely a sprint. The initial surge of energy can give way to exhaustion as the reality of a long recovery becomes apparent. As frustration, conflict, blame and disillusionment emerges as people grapple with ongoing uncertainty, delays and the sheer amount of work still ahead. Ms McNaughton encouraged participants to understand that these reactions are not necessarily signs of personal failure or weakness, but can be normal responses to prolonged stress. Recognising these stages can help people better understand their own reactions and show greater patience towards others who may be navigating the same experience differently. She also explored the idea of 'liminal space', describing the uncomfortable period between what life was before a disaster and what comes next. Using the natural environment of the TYTO Wetlands as an example, she explained how wetlands and mangroves exist between land and water, much like people can find themselves in an uncertain period between two stages of life. These transitional periods can be difficult, particularly when the future is unclear, but recognising them can help people give themselves time and space to adjust. Another important discussion focused on how people communicate with someone experiencing hardship. Ms McNaughton challenged the instinct to immediately offer solutions whenever someone shares a problem. While advice is often well-intentioned, it is not always what someone needs. Sometimes, the most valuable thing a person can offer is the opportunity for someone else to feel heard and understood. She encouraged participants to ask a simple but powerful question when offering support: what would you like from me? Whether someone needs to vent, receive advice, work through a plan or simply have someone listen, understanding that need can make a significant difference. The group also explored how this approach can strengthen personal and professional relationships, particularly within close-knit agricultural communities where people often rely on one another. The workshop also turned attention to personal expectations and the pressure people place on themselves. Ms McNaughton discussed how individuals can gradually take on responsibilities and identities that become difficult to put down, such as always being the person who fixes problems, listens to everyone else or keeps everything moving. When disaster adds another layer of responsibility, that existing load can become overwhelming. Participants were encouraged to consider what they were carrying, which expectations they could change and where they could make room for their own wellbeing. Ms McNaughton shared her own experience of recognising the importance of exercise and making it a protected part of her routine. She explained that recognising a need for change is only the beginning. People must also plan for it, protect the time needed to make it happen and allow others to adjust to those new boundaries before the habit becomes part of everyday life. The discussion reinforced that looking after oneself is not separate from looking after a family, business or community. It is part of being able to continue supporting those around you. The day provided women across the agricultural sector with an opportunity to share knowledge that extends beyond individual farms and businesses. While the wet season was an important part of the workshop's focus, the conversations highlighted that resilience is built through everyday relationships, communication, preparation and the willingness to support one another. Reflecting on the connections formed throughout the day, Ms McNaughton said she was encouraged by the wisdom shared between participants. "I've just loved seeing how quickly relationships have formed, and the wisdom that has been shared in the room is really powerful," she said. "And it's a beautiful thing to see the new tools, and I'm thinking about how they can be applied so that, yeah, Ingham and this area can be stronger for whatever comes next." For the women who attended, the workshop provided an opportunity to consider the people, relationships and community connections that can make all the difference when the unexpected happens.
By Dr Bianka Vidonja Balanzategui Before Council brought Ingham a clean, healthy water supply in the late 1930s, households had their own water tanks and private wells, while there was also a town well. With no flushing indoor toilets, human waste leak from cesspits contaminated the wells causing sickness. The introduction of a nightsoil service lessened contamination but this was not a long-term solution. At the start of the twentieth century, as the town grew, so did the chance of contaminating the town well. Only improved sanitary conditions would bring under control sicknesses such as typhoid and hookworm that persisted in the district. So, the Health Department inspector recommended that the water supply be drawn from the Herbert River. The findings of a Council commissioned report recommended a water tower costing £8,957, to supply 45 000 gallons, sufficient for around 1 500 people. During the 1915 drought the water level in the town well dropped so low that the pump was unable to work, and water was carted from the river. Considerable sickness due to contaminated water resulted. Despite this the Council still did not act. Twenty years later during the Great Depression the town water problems were finally solved. Council applied for a loan of £36,750 to build a water tower. In a groundbreaking offer that was the first grant of its kind for a civic water supply the Council paid only a third of the cost while the other two-thirds were contributed equally by the State and Federal governments. Work began in May 1937 using unemployed day labour to lay pipes. A concrete well at the intake on the Herbert River and a concrete tower 120 feet high in the centre of Ingham were constructed. Mains between those points and reticulation pipes throughout the supply area were laid with consumer connections the householders' responsibility. In July 1938 water began to be supplied with the aid of pressure valves until the tower was ready. The new supply was available for limited hours, becoming more generous as consumer numbers increased. The scheme was finally completed in March 1939 with nearly 500 consumers already connected and extensions planned. Teething problems included leaking experimental fibrolite pipes, and excessive consumption because though the river supply was boundless, delivery was restricted by the capacity of the powerhouse plant. Water restrictions were imposed during periods of heavy consumption, particularly during the war when electricity generation was reduced. Excessive domestic use was curbed by house-to-house inspections looking for leaking taps, educating consumers and even prosecuting where flagrant waste occurred. The water quality was generally good, cleaned by natural filtration through sandbanks in the riverbed. However, discoloration occurred when floodwater entered the pump well or if there were dredging operations in the upper Herbert. Rusting pipes were caused by significant numbers of bacteria releasing large amounts of carbon dioxide. A chlorinator was installed to treat the water largely solved the problem. Within the year there were requests for extensions from Trebonne, Halifax and Victoria Mill but the looming war put a hold on such plans. The 120-foot-high concrete tower was now the highest structure on the skyline and because of concern in World War 2 that it would be clearly visible to enemy planes some councillors argued that the tower should be camouflaged. In the end, shortages of both labour and paint put paid to the idea. This material was largely drawn from works written on the Hinchinbrook Shire by Dr Janice Wegner and Bianka Vidonja Balanzategui. Caption: Photo source: State Library of Queensland. 2211512. Large Water Tower, Ingham Queensland, 1953
St Peter’s Catholic School in Halifax will transition towards closure at the end of the 2027 school year, following a decision by Townsville Catholic Education (TCE), formally approved by Bishop Tim Harris. The decision follows an extensive review of regional demographic forecasts, financial viability and declining student enrolments. It was also reviewed and endorsed by the Diocesan Educational Council and Diocesan Finance Council. The school will continue operating throughout the 2027 school year before its closure, a year which also marks its centenary. The school will use the coming year to celebrate its 100-year legacy, recognising the generations of students, staff and families who have contributed to its history and the important role it has played in the Halifax and Hinchinbrook communities. The celebrations will provide an opportunity to reflect on the school's history, acknowledge its achievements and honour the lasting legacy of Catholic education in the region before the school officially closes. Townsville Catholic Education has confirmed current students will be guaranteed ongoing enrolment within the Catholic Diocese, with primary pathways available at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School and secondary pathways at Gilroy Santa Maria College.
North Queensland Parliamentarians Bob Katter and Shane Knuth. Photo supplied
This Thursday's public meeting in Ingham for North Queensland Parliamentarians Bob Katter and Shane Knuth to listen to our community, will get underway around 6pm in the Lees Hotel beer garden on 12th November.
All topics are on the table - including insurance affordability, disaster preparedness, cyclone recovery, and the future of our sugar industry - so come along and have your say, to give us your riding instructions to take to Parliament.
With consultation on the Sugar Code of Conduct now closed, a report is expected to be presented to Parliament in 2027. Any legislation that weakens the Code or strips growers of their right to independent arbitration would spell disaster for our cane industry.
Our growers deserve a fair go, fair prices, and the right to have disputes independently arbitrated.
Meanwhile, with cyclone season at our doorstep and the insurance affordability and underinsurance crisis continuing to undermine the resilience of North Queensland households, businesses and communities, we want to hear directly from the people who live and work through this.
Thousands of kilometres from southern capitals, our region faces some of Australia’s highest insurance premiums.
Rising policy premiums, excesses and various exclusions leave many homeowners dangerously underinsured, with coverage often falling short of the actual cost of rebuilding exacerbated by remoteness, labour shortages, freight costs and cyclone-resilient building standards.
This growing protection gap leaves families, businesses and ultimately taxpayers carrying the burden when disaster strikes.
And whilst we acknowledge the North's local leaders for recently forcing the Federal Government’s backdown on disaster funding reforms, alongside those in Ingham and Townsville who fought like tigers to secure the cyclone reinsurance pool for North Queenslanders and bring a number of leading insurers to the table – there remains much work to do.
The reinsurance pool should cover all events associated with tropical cyclone systems - including flooding; stronger emergency services and essential infrastructure preparedness; improved support from major businesses and banks following disasters; and better coordinated, adequately funded disaster recovery assistance.
And so we will continue to make the strongest representations at the highest possible levels of government, working alongside our local councils to ensure North Queensland's vulnerabilities are properly recognised.
The CommBank Ingham team brought the community together over homemade treats and raised funds for Can4Cancer during a bake sale on Monday 9th November.
The branch was filled with an assortment of sweet treats, giving locals the chance to pick up something delicious for morning tea while supporting a cause close to many hearts.
Supporting Australian charity, Tour de Cure, Can4Cancer has been active since 2014. Over that time, the CommBank initiative has raised $21.7 million, funded 212 cancer research, support or prevention projects and contributed to 50 world-class research breakthroughs impacting all cancer types.
The bake sale was a sweet way for the CommBank team to show its support, while giving locals an opportunity to contribute through a simple act of generosity when they popped into the bank.
“hardworking, caring young girl with a beautiful free spirit”. Photo source: GoFundMe
A young local woman who was two weeks away from graduating high school has been diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma at the age of 17.
Known as a “hardworking, caring young girl with a beautiful free spirit”, Mia works regular shifts at The Pocket and was set to graduate high school this year.
She is now embarking on at least six months of chemotherapy in Cairns and having to travel from Innisfail treatment.
A GoFundMe has been set up for Mia and her family, aiming to assist with travel costs, living expenses, time away from work and additional medical, recovery-related costs.
Mia is known for her contribution to local charities, helping at fundraising events such as Pink Ribbon Breast Cancer Day and the Wheelbarrow Race.
She is “always willing to get involved and bring a smile to those around her,” said her GoFundMe page.
“Now, it's our turn to be there for her”
Those close to her are asking for anything that can help make Mia more comfortable, supported and cared for throughout her treatment and recovery.
“Mia has a long road ahead, and we want her and her family to be able to focus on what matters most: getting Mia through treatment and back to enjoying being a young girl,” they shared.
“Our Cassowary Coast community has always shown incredible generosity and heart.
“Let's rally around Mia and her family and show them just how much support is behind them.
“Every little bit helps. Whether it's a donation, big or small, a prayer, or simply sharing this page, every gesture of kindness means so much.
The GoFundMe page has already raised over $25K at the time of print, with a goal of $30K.
Visit: https://www.gofundme.com/f/lets-get-behind-mia if you are able to help
The Forensic Crash Unit is investigating a fatal traffic crash on the Cassowary Coast, 8 November.
Shortly before 2.30pm, emergency services were called to a report of a collision between a truck and a car on the Bruce Highway at Damper Creek.
The sole occupant of a red Toyota Corolla, a 64-year-old Cardwell man, was declared deceased at the scene.
The driver of the truck was not physically injured.
Investigations into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.
Anyone who may have seen the vehicles prior to the crash, witnessed the incident or may have relevant vision are asked to come forward.
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting.
Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.
The garage sale trail invites locals to buy and sell unwanted treasures. Photo source: Shutterstock
Australia's biggest second-hand treasure hunt will have its last hurrah in Cassowary Coast this November, with the Garage Sale Trail inviting locals to hold concurrent yard sales across the community on the 14th-15th November.
Homes, unit blocks, schools, community groups, charities and pubs are invited to take part, keeping secondhand treasures out of landfill whilst connecting the community.
The iniative also aims to help locals make some extra cash by selling some unwanted items. The average amount made from a household is sale around $761 whilst schools and groups make around $1,325.
To get involved, search for Garage Sale Trail in Cassowary Coast and register for free.
When registering through the website you will receive a free listing on the national map which lets people know where your garage sale is, as well as how-to guides, sale tips, promotional materials and promotional support from Garage Sale Trail and your local council.
The scheme began as a community event in 2010, started on a whim by Sydney mates Darryl Nichols and Andrew Valder. Following their efforts, 130 garage sales popping up across Waverley Council.
16 years later the Garage Sale Trail has grown; the initiative is now supported by over 120 local councils and have generated over $52 million for charities, communities and households across Australia.
Cassowary Coast will be seeing some new developments. Photo Credit: Cassowary Coast Regional Council
New opportunities for investment, housing and business growth are set to increase across the Cassowary Coast, with two developments approved in Mission Beach and an infrastructure charges incentive supporting a residential project in Innisfail.
Cassowary Coast Mayor Teresa Millwood said the decisions fit in with the Council’s vision to create a more livable tropical community while supporting a strong and sustainable local economy.
"We want the Cassowary Coast to be a great place to live, do business and invest, while giving visitors more ways to stay and experience everything our beautiful region has to offer," Mayor Millwood said.
"These developments are encouraging examples of investment in our region, supporting housing choice, visitor accommodation and services for our growing communities."
The approved developments include a South Mission Beach tourist campground, a Mission Beach car wash and storage facility, and a housing development at Goondi Bend.
The South Mission Beach tourist campground, located at 49 Jackey Jackey Street, will accommodate 74 people and include a campground kitchen, basic amenities, camper trailers and tents.
The Mission Beach car wash and storage facility, located at Shepherd Close, will feature automatic and self-service car washing, a dog wash, vacuum bays and 126 storage spaces, including boat and caravan storage.
For the Goondi Bend housing development, the Council has endorsed a 75 per cent reduction in infrastructure charges, worth approximately $44,000, for an approved residential project at 12 Cedar Street.
The reduction in Infrastructure charges policy is part of the Council's development incentives. Hoping to create economic activity across the region, housing investment, and eligible developments.
Mayor Millwood said Council aimed to encourage investment while ensuring regional growth remained aligned with the area's environmental and community values.
"Our infrastructure charges incentives are one practical way we're helping reduce barriers to development and encourage investment in our region.
"As a certified ECO Destination, we also recognise the importance of protecting the natural environment that attracts visitors and makes our region such a special place to live.
"It's about supporting the right development, creating opportunities for local businesses and families, and ensuring the Cassowary Coast continues to grow in a way that benefits our communities."
Wreaths are given as a sign of respect and honor. Photo Credit: Cassowary Coast Regional Council
Next week, communities across the region will come together to mark Remembrance Day, a special day dedicated to honouring the courage, service and sacrifice of the men and women who have served our country.
At 11am on November 11th, Australians will pause to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice, and reflect on the lasting impact of their service.
If you’re planning to attend a local commemoration, here’s your guide to where and when Remembrance Day ceremonies will be held across the Cassowary Coast.
Lest We Forget.
Innisfail RSL
Dawn Service: 5:25am at Cenotaph, Jack Fossey Park
Morning Service: 9:30am at Cenotaph, Jack Fossey Park
El Arish
Dawn Service:
4:00am: Assemble at El Arish RSL Memorial Hall
4:20am: Parade moves off to El Arish Cenotaph
Traditional ANZAC Breakfast: 6:30am at El Arish History Station (open to the public)
Tully RSL
Dawn Service: 5:30am (assemble at Tully Leagues Club)
Morning Service:
9:40am: Assemble at the corner of Still Street & Butler Street
10:15am: Commemorative Ceremony at Cenotaph (Mitchell Park)
Mission Beach
Locations: Dawn Service: 5:30am at ANZAC Memorial, Reid Road (near the splash pad)
Gunfire Breakfast: To follow (gold coin donation)
Cardwell RSL
Dawn Service: 5:45am at Cardwell Cenotaph
Gunfire Breakfast: To follow
Morning Service: 10:45am at Cardwell Cenotaph
Kurrimine Beach
Dawn Service: 6:00am at Kurrimine Beach
Breakfast to follow for attendees
Morning Service: 9:45 am at Foster Street for a march with local schools
Adrien holds a long service medal. Photo Credit: Tully Beach Mission LAC
Local paramedic Adrien House has just received a long service medal, celebrating 30 years of dedication and compassion in the Queensland Ambulance Service.
Adrien began his career training and working in Cairns before finding his long-term home in Mission Beach.
Balancing a personal life and work life is a hard task for many front-line workers, but Adrien shared that it can be more manageable in a rural community.
“I came from Cairns to Mission Beach, thinking it’d only be a brief stint at a smaller location,” Adrien said.
“But I soon realised that it's a great work-life balance, a really nice community and a good mixture of workload.”
Since joining the Mission Beach station at 33, Adrien has built lasting connections with members of the community, often meeting them at their most vulnerable. While these relationships make the role deeply rewarding, it can also be a challenge.
“Working in a small community is both a positive and negative. You get to have connections with people, and then you're seeing those same sort of people go through medical emergencies and the worst time of their lives”
For Adrien, the rewards of rural paramedicine extend far beyond the flashing lights, with the quieter acts of care holding just as much significance as the high-pressure emergencies.
“Some of the work might be seen as not the sort of flashy lights and sirens stuff that you see on TV. Often, it can be just, you know, taking an elderly person for a specialist appointment, but I see both things as equally important.”
With over three decades in the field, Adrien has many tips to share with anyone pursuing a career in paramedicine. For example, looking after yourself so that you can look after others; staying fit and prioritising your well-being so you can de-stress from front-line service.
“I can get out of paramedic mode into father-partner mode and sort of put work behind me for the week.” Adrien shared.
“It's a structured thing I do after each rotation, and for me, I kind of see it as a bit of a reset, going into days off and onto the other side of me, which isn't a paramedic.”
It seems that being in a frontline service runs in Adrien's blood. The son of a firefighter and a nurse, he joked that he had been a paramedic since the age of eight, having grown up immersed in the everyday qualities of care and sympathy.
“I liked what they were doing for a living, and I think being a paramedic is kinda like somewhere in the middle of those two professions,” Adrien said.
P1. Act of Kindness from Kerrie and Mike. Photo Credit: Tully Mission Beach LAC
More than 100 little teddies are set to bring big much needed comfort to young patients, thanks to a thoughtful donation from two local residents.
Kerrie and Mike donated over 100 beanie babies to Tully Mission Beach Local Ambulance Committee, hoping that the soft toys will provide a great source of comfort for younger patients in what can be stressful, scary situations.
A Facebook post about the donation drew praise and gratitude.
“Thank you! My son had to ride in your ambulance a few times, and he loved the toys he got. It was a big distraction to what was happening. You truly do make a difference. Thank you!” shared one local.
“This donation will bring so much comfort, smiles and a little bit of happiness and i know that is both of your main goals. It’s people like you both who remind us how much kindness and compassion can make a difference. Such a thoughtful donation and something truly special,” shared another.
The donation is an example of how even the simplest items can make a big difference when given a new home, with the small toys becoming much-needed sources of comfort for little ones in need.
Sarina Silvestro (left), who has worked at Igguldens for more than 30 years, with owners Robyn and Colin Batts. Photo credit: Helen Cook
Step inside Igguldens on Butler Street in Tully and you'll discover something increasingly rare – a colourful treasure trove of clothing, footwear and everyday essentials, where good old-fashioned personal service is still very much alive.
And behind this much-loved family business are some remarkably familiar faces, including Sarina Silvestro, who has worked at Igguldens for more than 30 years, and Cheryl Jenkins, whose dedication to the store spans more than four decades.
Their extraordinary loyalty speaks volumes about a business where staff know their customers, understand their products and take pride in helping people find exactly what they need.
The story began in 1950 when George Iggulden opened his shop in Tully. Three years later, he married Amy Elston, who worked alongside him until the couple retired in 1995.
Their daughter Robyn and her husband Colin Batts, both teachers at the time, took over the business, continuing a family tradition that has now spanned more than three-quarters of a century.
For Colin, who spent 25 years teaching across Queensland, taking over the family business was quite a career change. But more than 30 years later, he still takes pride in providing the personal service that has become Igguldens' trademark.
“I think what sets us apart is our hands-on approach, honesty, good value for money and knowledge of the products we sell,” Colin said.
From colourful tropical shirts, comfortable bamboo and cotton clothing and sleepwear to workwear, footwear, socks and underwear, Igguldens offers an impressive variety under one roof.
And for the younger generation, there's also the Igguldens children's shop IGGsToo at Banyan Plaza, extending the family's retail presence in Tully.
While Colin and Robyn acknowledge the challenges facing independent retailers, they remain grateful for the dedicated staff and generations of customers who have supported their business.
After 76 years, it's not just what's on the shelves that makes Igguldens special – it's the people behind the counter.
Christine and Keith Blair with daughter Allie (centre) at Tropical Hibiscus Caravan Park, where their latest venture, Coffee Time, is bringing locals and tourists together. Photo credit: Helen Cook
When Christine and Keith Blair swapped corporate life for life on the road, little did they imagine that three years travelling around Australia would lead them to running their own caravan park on the Cassowary Coast – and opening a cafe.
Today, together with their daughter Allie, the couple are bringing fresh energy to Tropical Hibiscus Caravan Park in Wongaling Beach, creating a welcoming place for visitors and locals alike.
French-born Christine spent 25 years working in telecommunications, while her English husband hails from Yorkshire. After years of demanding corporate life, they decided it was time for a change.
Having stayed in countless caravan parks during their travels, they reckoned they knew what guests wanted.
"We thought, how hard could it be?" Christine laughed. "That's been our motto all the way along."
They fell in love with Tropical Hibiscus almost immediately, attracted by its relaxed atmosphere, convenient location and potential. Taking over in July 2025, they set about improving the park, introducing online bookings and building on its established reputation.
With 14 cabins and camping facilities, the small, friendly park attracts everyone from backpackers and travelling families to grey nomads, including loyal visitors who have been returning for 15 years. But the family's latest venture is proving just as popular.
When they realised an unused space at the front of the property could become a cafe, they invited 25-year-old daughter Allie to join them.
With university and backpacking overseas behind her and years of hospitality experience, Allie embraced the opportunity, establishing Coffee Time, which is fast becoming a favourite local meeting place.
With its rustic, homemade cooking, hearty pies, freshly baked quiches and good coffee, the cafe offers the sort of simple, comforting food that makes you want to linger a little longer – either outdoors on the verandah, or in the comfortable air-conditioning.
It's also becoming a creative community space, showcasing local artists and artisans, with plans for events including the upcoming Art After Dark twilight market.
For Allie, who moved from Brisbane six months ago, the warm welcome from the Mission Beach community has been one of the unexpected pleasures of her new life.
"Because we live on site, this is an extension of our home, and that's something that I want to extend to people visiting us in the cafe," she said.
For the Blair family, Tropical Hibiscus and Coffee Time are more than a business – they're home. And whether you're staying for a week, dropping in for coffee or catching up with friends, there's always a smile and a warm welcome waiting.
Local businesses were celebrated for their achievements at the Innisfail & District Chamber of Commerce annual Business of the Year Awards, held late last month.
A Chamber representative said the awards provided a wonderful opportunity to recognise and celebrate the local business community.
“To all of the nominees and finalists – you don’t just meet community standards, you raise the bar.”
This year’s winners included StickIt Vinyl for Homebased Business, Clarity At Work for New Business Of The Year, The Boob Tour for Non-Profit Of The Year and Discovery Wildlife Park for Tourism & Visitor Business Of The Year.
Springbrook Pharmacy took out Customer Service and Red Deer County Business Of The Year, while Hannah Klaus was named Employee Of The Year and House Of Her received both Community Impact and Innisfail Business Of The Year.
Ma & Pa’s Bakery was named Penhold Business Of The Year, while Bowden Hi-way Golf Course took home Bowden Business Of The Year.
Celebrating the naming of the John Büsst Reefs at the weekend. Photo: Reef Ecologic
More than half a century after he helped save the Great Barrier Reef from mining and oil drilling, pioneering conservationist John Büsst has been honoured with two reefs off Mission Beach named in his memory.
The John Büsst Reefs, located east of Ellison Reef off Bingil Bay, recognise the remarkable contribution of the artist, architect and environmental campaigner whose determination helped change the course of Australia's conservation history.
The naming was celebrated over the weekend with two events organised by Reef Ecologic, bringing together scientists, conservationists and community members to reflect on Büsst's legacy and the continuing importance of protecting the Reef.
The first, a commemorative gathering on Friday 6 November at Ninney Rise, Büsst's former home at Bingil Bay. The second event took the celebrations offshore, with a citizen science snorkelling and diving expedition to the newly named reefs and nearby Ellison Reef – the very place where Büsst's historic campaign began.
Reef Ecologic CEO and marine scientist Dr Adam Smith, who nominated the reefs for naming, described the recognition as a wonderful full-circle moment.
"This is more than a name on a chart. It recognises a man whose voice helped bring the plight of the Great Barrier Reef to national attention, and the coastline he loved and worked to protect," Dr Smith said.
Büsst, sometimes referred to as the 'Bastard of Bingil Bay' by his opponents, was instrumental in opposing limestone mining and oil exploration during the late 1960s and early 1970s. In 1967, he spearheaded a campaign against plans to mine Ellison Reef for agricultural limestone, rallying scientists, conservationists and community volunteers. Working alongside prominent figures including poet Judith Wright and ecologists Len Webb and Geoff Tracey, he helped build a national movement to protect the Reef.
The Save the Reef campaign generated more than 4,000 letters sent around the world, helping create the momentum that eventually led to the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Act in 1975. Sadly, Büsst never witnessed that achievement. He died in April 1971 while preparing evidence for the Royal Commission investigating proposed petroleum drilling on the Reef.
For the Mission Beach community, the John Büsst Reefs are more than names on a nautical chart. They are a lasting tribute to a local conservation pioneer whose courage and persistence helped protect one of the world's greatest natural wonders for future generations.
Established at Mourilyan in 1977, the Australian Sugar Industry Museum had its origins in the former Sugarama Theatre, built by the Micale family in the 1950s. Almost 50 years later, the collection is preparing for a new home in Tully, as part of a broader celebration of the region's rich agricultural history
It's the news Tully has been waiting for – the Australian Sugar Industry Museum committee has voted to bring its historic collection to Tully, choosing the town over a competing proposal from Gordonvale.
The decision, made at a committee meeting on Tuesday night, is a significant victory for the local group working to establish the Wet Tropics Agricultural Heritage Centre at the former Tully Visitor Information Centre.
Dr Rob Magarey, who has been closely involved in developing the proposal alongside William Moran and other local supporters, welcomed the decision as an exciting step forward for the town.
"All the museum exhibits are coming to Tully and all the finance seems to be coming to Tully as well," Rob said.
While the financial arrangements are yet to be formally documented or confirmed, the decision by the committee, chaired by Sam Spina, provides the green light for the Tully group to begin putting its plans into action.
The announcement follows the recent decision by Cassowary Coast Regional Council to approve a Facility Use Agreement for the former Visitor Information Centre on the Bruce Highway at Tully, subject to conditions that included the outcome of the museum committee's deliberations.
Rob confirmed that Council had already been in contact to progress arrangements for the lease, including ensuring the building is in good condition before it is handed over.
But the vision for the new centre extends well beyond sugar.
The Wet Tropics Agricultural Heritage Centre aims to celebrate the remarkable agricultural history of the Tully district and surrounding region – from the pioneering timber cutters and cattle graziers to the development of the sugar and banana industries that have become synonymous with Far North Queensland.
The proposal brings together the stories of these industries, the families who established them, and the machinery, innovations and hard work that transformed the district.
The former Australian Sugar Heritage Centre collection, previously housed at Mourilyan before the devastating floods associated with Cyclone Jasper in December 2023, includes historic locomotives, tractors, harvesters, photographs, documents and other artefacts.
As William Moran explained when the proposal was first announced, "We want to bring them all together in a museum right here on the highway."
The immediate priority will be to reopen the existing building as a Visitor Information Centre, incorporating a selection of heritage exhibits and potentially providing opportunities to book local attractions and Tully Sugar mill tours.
A business plan has already been prepared, and the local committee is expected to meet shortly to consider the next steps.
However, Rob emphasised that while the decision is cause for celebration, there is still considerable work ahead.
The longer-term vision includes purpose-built exhibition sheds to accommodate larger machinery and collections, including a dedicated display celebrating the banana industry. These plans remain subject to development approvals, including from State Government authorities.
The group also intends to continue discussions with Dr Valerie Keenan and supporters of the proposed Tully Arts and Cultural Precinct about opportunities for collaboration.
And while there are still plans to finalise, approvals to secure and plenty of hard work ahead, one thing is certain – Tully has taken a significant step towards preserving and celebrating its rich agricultural history, ensuring the stories of the industries and people who shaped the district are shared with generations to come.
While waiting at the pharmacy this week, I spotted a gentleman engrossed in the Cassowary Coast LIFE crossword. A quick chat revealed he was Max Riipinen, born in Tully in 1944 to Finnish immigrant parents – and a former rugby league player with an impressive sporting history.
Max played for the Tully Tigers in the 1960s, representing Far North Queensland in 1966 and 1967 before heading to Sydney in 1968, where he played for the legendary St George Dragons. He later played for Brisbane Norths. More than half a century later, Max remainsconnected to his hometown and its proud rugby league heritage, with the Tully Tigers celebrating their centenary this year.
And at 82, he's still tackling challenges – although these days it's the LIFE crossword rather than opposition forwards!
Thanks for the chat, Max. A lovely reminder of the fascinating stories behind our readers.
When the North Queensland heat turns up, staying hydrated becomes more important than ever. Whether you're working outdoors, heading out for a long walk, spending the day at the beach or keeping up with your exercise routine, replacing fluids lost through sweat is an important part of looking after your body.
While drinking plenty of water is essential, electrolytes also play a role in maintaining the body's fluid balance. Sodium, potassium, magnesium and calcium are lost through sweat and help support normal muscle function, nerve signalling and hydration. During prolonged physical activity, particularly in hot conditions, an electrolyte drink can help replenish these important minerals.
PURE Sports Nutrition's Electrolyte Hydration range offers a convenient way to support hydration during extended exercise and high-intensity activity. The Superfruits flavour combines real freeze-dried fruit powders with carbohydrates and four key electrolytes: sodium, potassium, magnesium and calcium.
Designed as a natural isotonic sports drink, the formula contains five per cent carbohydrates to help provide energy during exercise. It is also free from artificial colours and preservatives, vegan friendly and formulated to be easy on the stomach without an overly sweet taste.
This summer, make hydration part of your routine. Drink water regularly, plan ahead when spending time in the heat and consider electrolyte support during longer or more strenuous activities.
Beat the Hinchinbrook heat with PURE Sports Nutrition electrolytes, on sale at Ingham Wholelife Pharmacy until 17th November – the summer companion to help keep you hydrated!
La Roche-Posay Anthelios range available at TerryWhite Chemmart Ingham, Photo credit: Victoria Velton
With North Queensland’s sunshine comes the reminder to protect your skin. Whether you're spending the day at the beach, working outdoors, enjoying the backyard or keeping the kids entertained during the holidays, sun protection should be part of your routine.
La Roche-Posay’s Anthelios range offers SPF 50+ options to help protect the whole family against harmful UVA and UVB rays, with lightweight formulas designed for different needs and activities.
For everyday facial protection, the Anthelios UVMUNE 400 Ultra Invisible Fluid SPF 50+ features a lightweight, non-greasy texture with an invisible finish and no white cast. Formulated for sensitive skin, it is designed to sit comfortably under makeup, making it an easy addition to your morning skincare routine.
For days spent swimming or enjoying the water, Anthelios Wet Skin Sunscreen SPF 50+ features specialised Wet Skin Technology, allowing it to be applied directly to wet skin while providing four hours of water resistance. It is suitable for sensitive skin and children.
The Anthelios Invisible Spray SPF 50+ offers a convenient face and body option, with a lightweight, fragrance-free formula and easy application. Little ones are also catered for with the UVMUNE 400 Ultra Invisible Kids Fluid SPF 50+, developed for children's sensitive skin.
Remember to apply sunscreen 20 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every two hours, as well as after swimming, towelling or perspiring. Pair sunscreen with protective clothing, a hat, sunglasses and shade.
Discover the La Roche-Posay Anthelios range, available at TerryWhite Chemmart Ingham.
‘Slide on sunglasses that meet Australian standards to protect your eyes.’ Photo credit: Victoria Velton
The summer sun is starting to turn up the heat across Hinchinbrook, and while a day outdoors is part of the Queensland lifestyle, forgetting sun protection can leave a lasting mark on your skin.
With temperatures climbing and UV levels reaching extreme readings, locals are being reminded to make sun safety part of their everyday routine. Whether you're working in the paddock, fishing, heading to the beach, watching weekend sport or enjoying a backyard barbecue, protecting your skin needs to be on the agenda.
The tricky thing about ultraviolet (UV) radiation is that you cannot see it or feel it. Unlike sunlight, which we can see, or infrared radiation, which gives us that familiar warmth, UV can damage skin without any obvious warning. A cloudy morning or a cooler breeze does not necessarily mean you're safe from exposure.
The Bureau of Meteorology's Hinchinbrook forecast is already highlighting the need for caution, with UV levels recently reaching extreme levels from just the second week of November.
Cancer Council recommends following the five SunSmart steps whenever the UV Index reaches three or above.
Slip on protective clothing, choosing long sleeves and fabrics that cover as much skin as possible.
Slop on SPF50 or SPF50+ broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen. Apply it generously before heading outdoors and reapply every two hours, particularly after swimming, sweating or towel-drying.
Slap on a broad-brimmed hat to protect your face, ears and neck.
Seek shade wherever possible, especially during the middle of the day when UV levels are generally strongest.
Slide on sunglasses that meet Australian standards to protect your eyes.
Sunscreen should not be treated as a suit of armour or a reason to spend longer in the sun. It works best alongside clothing, a hat, shade and sunglasses. UV exposure also builds up over time, so even days without sunburn can contribute to skin damage.
And remember, burning isn't good for toast, and it's even worse for your skin. A tan is also a sign of UV damage, not a healthy souvenir of a day outdoors.
Before heading out, check the UV forecast for Hinchinbrook through the Bureau of Meteorology and plan your day around the sun protection times. A few simple habits can help keep your skin safer throughout the summer and well beyond.
Check the forecast and stay sun safe: www.bom.gov.au/places/qld/hinchinbrook/forecast/
Councillor Donna Marbelli and Sherie Hensler-Adams of Life Publishing Group raising funds in the Ingham McDonald’s drive thru on McHappy Day, 2025. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
The McHappiest Time of the Year is back! McHappy Day returns on Wednesday 14 November, rallying Aussies to give back to Ronald McDonald House Australia through fun, fashion, and spreading joy.
The fundraising starts now, with a fresh line-up of NEW limited-edition McHappy Day merch has already dropped!
From Wednesday 14 October until midnight on McHappy Day (14 November), locals across Queensland can step up for a good cause with this year's Silly Socks ($6.50), featuring fan-favourite characters Grimace and Hamburglar, or top off their look with all-new stonewash Cool Caps ($9.95). Best of all, 100% of profits from merchandise sales go directly to Ronald McDonald House Australia, helping support families when they need it most.
Whether you're rocking your Silly Socks for good or sporting a Cool Cap that gives back, every purchase helps raise vital funds for Ronald McDonald House Australia, supporting essential services that provide comfort, care and connection for families with children who are ill or injured, helping them stay together when it matters most.
Looking for even more ways to support McHappy Day? Aussies can also:
Lend a hand – Purchase a Helping Hand for $2, $10 or $50 and add your support to the thousands of Aussies backing Ronald McDonald House Australia.
Click, tap & donate – Head to mchappyday.org.au/donate and help support families with children who are ill or injured, wherever you are.
Buy a Big Mac with a BIGGER purpose – On McHappy Day, $2 from every Big Mac sold, whether purchased on its own or as part of a meal, will be donated to Ronald McDonald House® Australia.
"Every year we're inspired by the generosity of our customers and communities. McHappy Day shows that when lots of people do something small, the collective impact can be extraordinary," said Tamika Wood, Regional Director for McDonald’s North Region.
"Whether it’s picking up a pair of Silly Socks or a Cool Cap, purchasing a Helping Hand during McHappy Time, or coming in to grab a Big Mac on McHappy Day, there are so many simple ways for locals to get involved.
“Every contribution helps Ronald McDonald House continue their incredible work supporting families and keeping them together during some of life's most challenging moments.
“We can't wait to see our community come together once again and help make this year's McHappy Day one to remember."
Barbara Ryan, Chief Executive Officer for Ronald McDonald House Australia, said: “McHappy Day is one of the most important fundraising campaigns of the year for Ronald McDonald House in Australia, and we're incredibly grateful to everyone who gets involved.
"By purchasing a pair of Silly Socks, popping on a Cool Cap or making a donation, Australians are helping support families with children who are ill or injured when they need it most.
"The launch of this year's McHappy Day merchandise is the perfect opportunity to get involved early and show your support. McHappy Day is a great chance to make a small purchase that makes a big difference for Aussie families".
Organised by McDonald's Australia, McHappy Day brings communities together each year to support the largest annual fundraiser for Ronald McDonald House Australia. Since 1991, Australians have helped raise more than $83 million through McHappy Day, enabling Ronald McDonald House across Australia to continue providing essential services and support to over 89,000 families annually.
Funds raised through McHappy Day help Ronald McDonald House across Australia provide a range of Programs to meet families’ needs, including Ronald McDonald Houses, Family Accommodation, Family Rooms, Family Hubs, Family Retreats, Hospitality Carts and the Learning Program. Together, these services provide comfort, care and connection when families need it most.
From Wednesday 14th October, McHappy Day Silly Socks and stonewash Cool Caps are available at Macca's restaurants nationwide via drive thru, kiosk, front counter, the MyMacca’s app and McDelivery, while stocks last.
Locals can get behind the cause at McDonald's Ingham, with the restaurant joining the nationwide McHappy Day campaign. The community is encouraged to get involved by picking up this year's limited-edition merchandise, purchasing a Helping Handor donating at the drive thru, before they enjoy a Big Mac that supports families in need.
A cold one is waiting for you at the Forrest Beach Seaside Resort. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
New owners, a new name and a fresh facelift has been given to the former Forrest Beach Hotel, newly launched as Forrest Beach Seaside Resort (FBSR), following big plans to bring back the family heart and become the evening go-to spot at 'the Beach'.
A fresh coat of blue paint and new signage are the first signs of things to come, as the resort slowly transforms to meet the vision of its new owners. The old girl has plenty of life left in her yet, with a revamped bar, refurbished accommodation and plans for a swimming pool already approved.
The rooms have been given a fresh, clean look, so guests can wake up to a beach view from their king-sized bed or enjoy watching the kids play on the lawn. And while the transformation from hotel to resort is well underway, the promised pool is just one of the ideas in the works.
The owners say they're not going anywhere, with a five-year plan already in motion to make FBR a place where patrons want to spend their time. Think friends, family, good food, entertainment and a cold one on tap. Soon enough, there'll be a pool to dip into as well!
And there's an extra reason to head down and celebrate, with Forrest Beach Seaside Resort hosting a big Saturday night on 14th November.
Local duo Escape Goats will bring the live entertainment, promising big guitar sounds, powerful vocals, modern rock classics and old favourites with a fresh twist. These two pack the sound and energy of a full band, ready to turn an ordinary Saturday night into a proper pub-rock party.
There's also a birthday to celebrate, with the occasion marking the owner's special day. So, round up your mates, check out the new bar and settle in for a night of live music in good company.
The old Forrest Beach Hotel is starting to find its feet again, and if the owners' plans are anything to go by, there's plenty more to come. The Beach might just have its favourite local gathering spot back.
At just over four years old, Shadow has gracefully matured into a calm and soulful companion, with plenty of love and companionship still to give. This lovely Domestic Short Hair girl thrives in a quieter, peaceful setting where she can enjoy being the centre of attention.
Shadow comes from a home where she was deeply cherished, and she's now looking for someone who appreciates her gentle temperament and can provide a tranquil environment. She would prefer to be the only feline in the household, where she can soak up all the affection for herself. While her compatibility with other cats and children is unknown, she has been listed as dog-friendly.
Shadow is now ready for the next chapter of her life, hoping to find a loving home where she can settle in and share her affection with one special person or family. Whether it's a peaceful routine or a quiet evening curled up by your side, Shadow is sure to bring comfort and companionship to her new home.
Included in adoption fee of $225 DESEXED, MICRO-CHIPPED, up to date VACCINATIONS, FLEA/TICK/INTESTINAL WORM treated. Enquire today at angelpawsinc.com.au/pets-for-adoption/cats/
Sex: Female
Breed: Domestic Short Hair
Colour: Black
DOB: 08/08/2022
Cat Friendly: Unsure
Dog Friendly: Yes
Kid Friendly: Unsure
Rebecca Zaghini, of Wild Local, Ingham. Image supplied
By Victoria Velton
For Ingham family business Wild Local, a reliable internet connection is essential to keeping the doors open; beyond convenience, it serves to support customers and the local fishing families behind its fresh seafood.
After 18 years in business, Rebecca Zaghini has seen Wild Local grow from a fresh fish and prawn shop into a fish and chip shop, café and pantry. But as the business expanded, so too did its reliance on technology.
The need for a stronger connection became impossible to ignore in December 2025, when the internet dropped out just as the business was heading into its busiest trading period.
“With locals, holidaymakers and travellers all coming through, we simply couldn't afford to have our internet fail then,” Rebecca said.
“Online orders, card payments, stock and supplier communication all depend on it. That outage was the wake-up call.”
The business made the move to full fibre, a decision Rebecca said has already made a noticeable difference to daily operations.
Online orders now come through without delays, EFTPOS is faster and more reliable, and staff can manage stock and communicate with fishers and suppliers without waiting on a slow connection.
“When you're dealing with fresh, wild-caught seafood, timing is everything, so being able to respond quickly to customers and suppliers really matters,” she said.
The improved connection has also helped streamline the customer experience, with faster and more accurate orders, less waiting at the counter and fewer missed calls during busy periods.
Wild Local has also introduced an AI ordering system, helping take pressure off staff during peak times so they can concentrate on cooking and looking after customers in the shop.
Rebecca said the technology relies on a fast, stable connection, with full fibre providing the infrastructure to support it.
With almost every part of the business now depending on internet access, from orders and payments to tour group bookings and social media, Rebecca said reliable connectivity was no longer a luxury.
That reliability is particularly important as the region approaches another wet season.
During the February 2025 floods, Wild Local was forced to close for seven days. Once power was restored, the business reopened to feed SES workers and locals.
“That experience showed us how much the community relies on us when things go wrong, and we never want to be shut for that long again,” Rebecca said.
Since then, the business has invested in solar, battery storage and a backup generator, alongside its full fibre connection, to improve its ability to keep operating through difficult conditions.
Being connected also means Wild Local can keep customers informed when roads close or weather affects deliveries, sharing updates through social media and staying in touch with fishers about catches and supply.
Rebecca believes regional businesses can underestimate how important telecommunications infrastructure is until they experience an outage themselves.
“In regional areas, where we're more exposed to severe weather and isolation, reliable telecommunications should be treated as essential infrastructure, just like power and roads,” she said.
"Don't wait for something to go wrong. Look at how much of your business depends on the internet. It's usually more than you think.
“Investing in a reliable connection is investing in your customers, your staff and your ability to keep trading when things get tough.”
Rebecca sees this improved connectivity opening up new opportunities for Wild Local and other regional businesses, from expanding online orders and using technology more effectively to promoting Hinchinbrook's wild-caught seafood to customers across Australia and overseas.
Wayde Chiesa MP (Centre), with the 2025 (Outside edge) & 2026 (Inside, besides Wayde) Maraka Queens, backstage after the crowning ceremony. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
During the Hinchinbrook by-election, I made a commitment to fight for stronger bail laws and put an end to the revolving door of repeat offenders being released on bail and going on to commit more serious crimes.
Last week, we delivered on that commitment.
The Queensland Parliament passed the Crisafulli Government's Breach Bail, Go to Jail legislation, an important milestone for our community and one I am particularly proud to have helped deliver.
Throughout the by-election and since being elected, I heard from countless people who wanted stronger consequences for serious repeat offenders.
To everyone who shared their experiences, completed my survey or made a submission to the parliamentary committee, thank you. Your voices were heard and helped drive these reforms.
The new laws, due to commence on 30th November, introduce stronger consequences for serious offending while on bail and tougher requirements when bail is being considered.
There is always more work to do when it comes to community safety, but this is an important step towards putting victims first and making our communities safer.
Back home, it was fantastic to see Ingham come alive for this year's Maraka Festival.
From the mardi gras in the park, the colourful floats to the crowning of the Maraka Queen, it was a wonderful celebration of our community.
I particularly enjoyed catching up with so many familiar faces, helping host the festivities alongside Carley and judging the colouring competition.
Events like Maraka don't happen without an enormous amount of work behind the scenes.
A big thank you to the Maraka committee, volunteers, sponsors, participating schools, local businesses and everyone who helped make this year's festival such a success. It's events like these that bring our community together and remind us ofwhat makes our district such a special place.
Finally, as we approach the end of another Herbert crushing season, I want to acknowledge our growers, harvesting contractors, mill workers and everyone involved in getting the crop away.
It has been a challenging season, with wet weather, rising costs and interruptions affecting different parts of the district.
I hope the remaining weeks bring favourable conditions and that every grower has the opportunity to get their crop harvested.
Whether it's delivering stronger laws, supporting our local industries or getting out and celebrating the communities we call home, I'll continue listening, working hard and delivering for Hinchinbrook.
I recently attended the Queensland Local Government Annual Conference held in Cairns, a conference where all 77 Queensland councils come together for the purpose of discussing and determining policy and position on matters of interest to our collective communities. This year saw a total of 133 motions debated, ranging from the need to secure better funding from upper levels of government for road network improvements through to State law changes in animal, planning and building issues, to name a few.
Queensland local governments endeavour to make our communities great places to live and work for a good and sustainable future. That is why a lot of advocacy goes on with upper levels of government when we in local government think we are being shortchanged on many issues, including adequate resourcing. For instance, local government is once again at odds with the Australian Federal Government over the proposed Working Holiday Maker Programme second and third year caps due solely to the potential consequences for our North Queensland and Far North Queensland communities.
We are asking the Federal Government to carefully assess rural consequences before implementing nationally determined restrictions on Working Holiday Maker visas, particularly in regions where these workers support seasonal industries, tourism and local communities such as ours. The science is telling us that the numbers will drop because of the cap, making our businesses struggle for staff to service the communities.
What many do not realise is that the Working Holiday Maker program not only provides a mobile workforce for industries with seasonal or variable demand but also generates visitor spending within the communities, as it is well known the visitors do play within the communities in which they are situated for work, albeit for short periods of time.
This advocacy follows closely behind the campaign recently waged by local government over proposed funding cutbacks to disaster recovery arrangements in Queensland. Thankfully, the Federal Government finally acknowledged our concerns and withdrew the proposed changes.
And finally, it is very pleasing to see our Works for Queensland construction projects getting underway after what seems a very lengthy planning and procurement process. As many of you would be aware, securing skilled workers and essential construction materials is, for whatever reason, taking longer and becoming more difficult in the current environment we live in.
First cab off the rank is the Lynch Street pump track and half basketball court and I see that, as well as construction, the works are causing quite some discussion within the community as to location. The location was chosen due to flood resilience. Costs to repair or reinstate damaged community assets due to regular flooding are becoming unsustainable. Just like your own household insurance, Council is also experiencing rises in premiums that must be paid for through your rates. To mitigate against continuing increases, we must think smarter and establish future infrastructure in a more resilient manner into the future where possible.
The land adjacent to the Lynch Street development, previously owned by Queensland Rail, is and has always been zoned for recreational purposes and the establishment of the park for children's activities and sport is consistent with that zoning.
Stay tuned for more project releases coming out soon.
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Hello Hinchinbrook,
Snap Send Solve is a free app that lets you report a problem to your local Council using an iPhone or Android device. You can also make a general request or provide feedback. Snap Send Solve allows you to quickly and easily capture and report common issues such as illegal rubbish dumping or a street sign needing repair.
How Snap Send Solve works: Snap Send Solve determines your local Council using your smartphone’s GPS location. It then provides your Council’s contact information, location and email address. When you use Snap Send Solve, your request is sent from the app using your email address and phone number so that Hinchinbrook Shire Council can communicate directly with you to fix the issue. You know what’s happening in your neighbourhood, so if you notice something that’s not right, report it. Council can monitor the problem, get it fixed or clean it up, but we need your help to let us know what’s wrong.
Report if you see:
Download the App – Snap, Send, Solve, take a photo and send it.
Free to download from the App Store and Google Play, and available online, Snap Send Solve eliminates the complexity of knowing where and how to report incidents on the spot by enabling users to capture and send photos of issues that need attention, from cracked pavements and dumped rubbish to water faults, to councils and a range of other authorities. Snap Send Solve makes it easy and therefore encourages communities to report incidents, making it easier and more efficient for local councils and other responsible authorities to act on reports.
Also, the Customer Service Centre, located at 25 Lannercost Street, Ingham, offers a wide variety of services to the residents of the Hinchinbrook Shire, including:
To request a service, make an enquiry or report an issue, please use the web forms under Customer Service on the Hinchinbrook Shire Council website: www.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au/
If the matter requires urgent attention, please call Council on (07) 4776 4600. Once again, it is great to be able to pick up a copy of Hinchinbrook Life and read through what has been happening and what will be happening throughout our Shire.
The Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Tourism Inc has successfully secured joint Australian and Queensland government grant funding to deliver an exciting new initiative aimed at strengthening, supporting and building resilience within the region’s business community.
Funded through the Business Resilience Partnership Program, the Building Business Resilience in Hinchinbrook project represents a significant opportunity for the Chamber to work alongside local businesses, better understand the challenges they face and develop practical strategies to support a stronger, more connected business community.
The successful funding application is a positive outcome for the Chamber and the wider Hinchinbrook region, providing valuable resources to deliver a series of targeted engagement activities, networking opportunities and business support initiatives, focussing on recovery and resilience.
Importantly, the project will place local business owners and operators at the centre of the conversation, ensuring future recovery and resilience priorities are shaped by those who know the region and its challenges best and are engaged to undertake those activities when the time comes.
Chamber President Mary Brown welcomed the funding success, highlighting the importance of securing opportunities that deliver meaningful benefits for the local business community.
“This funding is a fantastic outcome for Hinchinbrook and provides us with an opportunity to really connect with our business community, understand their needs and identify where we can make a meaningful difference.
“Our local businesses are the backbone of our community, and building their resilience is critical to the long-term strength and sustainability of our region.
“We want this project to be driven by local voices, real experiences and practical solutions that will deliver lasting benefits.”
To support the delivery of the initiative, the Chamber has partnered with experienced community leader Margie Ryder, who will coordinate the project under the Chamber banner.
Based in Townsville, Margie brings extensive experience across community engagement, business and local government, having previously served as a local government councillor and currently holding the position of Secretary of Volunteering North Queensland.
Chamber President Mary Brown welcomed the funding announcement and said Margie’s experience in bringing people together and facilitating meaningful conversations would be invaluable to the project.
“Margie brings a wealth of experience across business, community and local government, and we are delighted to have her working alongside the Chamber to help deliver this initiative.
The Business Resilience Partnership Program is jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) and administered by the Department of Customer Services, Open Data and Small and Family Business.
The message is simple: local businesses know their challenges best, and their voices will help shape the solutions.
Where The Hell Are We? Networking Breakfast
Bookings are essential. Local business owners and operators are encouraged to register early and be part of the conversation.
Register for the Networking Breakfast
From the main streets of Ingham to the pocket-sized shops of Halifax, roadside stalls and food trucks dotted throughout the region, small businesses are at the heart of the Hinchinbrook community.
But with an increase in reported shoplifting and stock theft across Hinchinbrook and surrounding areas, business owners are being encouraged to take steps to protect their premises, equipment and livelihoods.
The Queensland government is offering eligible small businesses grants of up to $20,000 to help strengthen their security, with applications now open through the Small Business Security Grants program.
Funding can be used towards a range of improvements, including alarm systems, security cameras, access controls, security lighting and physical security upgrades. Support is also available for mobile businesses seeking security improvements for vehicles and trailers.
The grant covers 50 per cent of eligible project costs up to $20,000, excluding GST.
To qualify, businesses must have 19 or fewer employees and an annual turnover of $10 million or less in the 2025–26 financial year. Applicants must also hold an active Australian Business Number (ABN), be registered for GST, have their headquarters in Queensland and have been trading for at least 12 months.
Applications close at 5pm on April 23rd 2027, unless available funding is exhausted earlier.
Review the full eligibility criteria, funding thresholds and application requirements before applying, at business.qld.gov.au
The Herbert River RSL came alive with 155 patrons for their Melbourne Cup celebration. Photos sourced: Herbert River RSL
Herbert River RSL was filled with excitement and community spirit for this year’s Melbourne Cup Day celebrations, welcoming approximately 155 people for an afternoon of racing in good company.
The event brought locals together to enjoy the race that stops the nation, with plenty of conversation, laughter and anticipation as guests watched the horses race their way around the track.
Organisers thanked everyone who attended and helped make the day such a success, with the celebrations offering another opportunity for the community to come together while supporting an important local cause.
A special mention was made of Tammy Collins and her dedicated team of volunteers, whose hard work, time and commitment helped bring the event to life.
Their efforts were greatly appreciated, with all money raised from the event going towards Ingham Palliative Care. Herbert River RSL also made an additional donation based on the number of people in attendance, providing further support to the local palliative care unit.
The generosity of attendees, volunteers and organisers helped make the day about more than just the racing, with the event highlighting the community spirit behind fundraising efforts that support local services.
Herbert River RSL thanked everyone who attended, volunteered, donated and supported the day, and looks forward to welcoming the community to future events.
The Herbert River RSL will join the community in commemorating Remembrance Day on Wednesday 11th November, with a service to be held at the Ingham Cenotaph.
Community members are invited to arrive by 10.40am, ahead of the service commencing at 10.50am. The service will run until approximately 11.30am, providing an opportunity to pause and remember the servicemen and women who have served and sacrificed in conflicts and peacekeeping operations.
Following the service, attendees are welcome to join RSL members for light refreshments at the Herbert River RSL.
Members of the Ingham Lions Club gathered at the park before the Ingham ANZAC Day march in 2025. Photo source: Ingham Lions Club
Ingham residents are invited to line the streets and show their support as Lions Clubs from across the region gather for the 2026 201Q2 District Convention.
The parade will take place on Saturday 14th November, beginning at 8am along Lannercost Street.
Participants will assemble outside Hinchinbrook Shire Hall before making their way along the main street, starting in front of Lee’s Hotel and finishing outside the Shire Hall.
The parade of flags will bring together visiting Lions members, celebrating the organisation's service, community connections and commitment to helping others.
Community members are encouraged to come along, watch the parade and welcome the visiting delegates to Hinchinbrook.
The convention will run from Friday 13th November, to Sunday 15th November, with Lions members taking part in meetings, presentations, guest speakers, workshops and fellowship activities throughout the weekend.
The Lions Club of Ingham is looking forward to welcoming delegates and visitors to the district and showcasing the Hinchinbrook community.
The Reader of the Week is Mae Rawson, the newest addition to the Life Publishing journalism team!
Mae grew up in the Northern Rivers near Byron Bay, where she loved going to the local beaches and markets, as well as competing in school sports.
Mae moved to Sydney to study before moving up to Airlie Beach to start her journalism Cadetship with the Life Publishing group.
She is excited to explore the beaches and nature that North Queensland has to offer, whilst writing stories for newspapers from Mackay to the Cassowary Coast.
Mission Beach Cricket Club celebrates under water hoses. Photo supplied: Mission Beach Cricket Club
Temperatures at Mission Beach Cricket Club hit a high of 31 degrees at midday on Saturday, with the sun beating down on the young cricketers.
While the local team secured a hard-fought home-ground victory over the Innisfail Monsoons, their game day elations were no match for hot and humid conditions.
Fortunately, Mission Beach Fire Station crews came to the rescue, with firefighters Leith and Lucy, pulling in to provide a quick hose down.
Within minutes the young sportsters swapped stumps and bats for a refreshing dip under the cool waters of the fire truck’s hose.
“Thank you to Firefighter Leith and Lucy from Mission Beach Fire Station for helping us cool off after the game,” Mission Beach Cricket Club stated via Facebook.
While fire trucks are essential for emergency situations, the community work they do is also important. From attending school fairs to community events – and even the odd sporting game – these everyday heroes deserve a shout out this week.
Thanks for all you do, both on and off the cricket pitch!
Planning into the Final Months of the Year
With the announcement of the end of 2026 harvest season on Wednesday 11 November 2026, now being confirmed, the very busy time of the year for the sugar industry and many of the support services who contribute to a successful harvest, is nearing completion.
Once again, the 2026 season has not been without challenges that have often test all participants, yet the commitment and determination of those involved in the industry, to harvest and crush the crop, has once again been evident across the community. Heartfelt thanks once again go out to all involved in this very important industry sector, for our community and economy.
My personal belief is that every employee, business owner and supporting family member makes a contribution in their own way to the success of this industry and it is important to once again recognise, acknowledge and thank them for their role in this year’s crop production and harvest. As the harvest season comes to a close, we turn our mind to end of year celebrations, leading into special Christmas times with family and loved ones.
This year, Hinchinbrook Shire Council will launch the Christmas in Hinchinbrook series of celebrations, with the Late Night Shopping and Markets at 5.00pm on Thursday, 26th November, 2026. This extremely popular event has over the past several years, seen large number of locals and visitors enjoy the opportunity to prepare for Christmas, enjoy a wonderful evening of socialising and renewing friendships, at this very relaxed and entertaining event.
The other events included in the Christmas in Hinchinbrook campaign are Seniors Morning Tea, Christmas Carols at many locations across the district and the Mayor’s Christmas Appeal. These are all wonderful social events that provide an opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate the wonderful Hinchinbrook community.
Please visit Council’s website, Events Calendar page or Hinchinbrook Life, for all the event details.
Whether you’re craving a classic pub favourite or something a little more loaded, Lee’s Hotel in Ingham has plenty to tempt your tastebuds on your next night out.
Parmi lovers are spoilt for choice, with a range of loaded chicken parmigianas featuring toppings to suit just about every craving. From the classic Parmigiana to Meatlovers, Hawaiian, Spanish and Italian varieties, there’s a parmi for every appetite. The hardest part might just be deciding which one to order!
If you’re feeling adventurous, there’s also something a little different to try. Lee’s crocodile spring rolls offer a twist on a familiar favourite, served crispy and deep-fried with lemon myrtle aioli. It’s a distinctly Australian flavour combination that’sworth adding to your must-try list.
Pair your meal with a crisp pint, your mates, and some live music or the footy, and you’ve got the makings of a great evening out.
And there’s no need to worry about getting home afterwards. Lee’s Hotel offers a free courtesy bus every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night from 5pm, making it easier to enjoy dinner and drinks without having to drive yourself.
Have you tried every topping on the parmi menu? Lee’s has you spoilt for choice.
Bookings are recommended for your table and courtesy bus pick-up, so organise your evening ahead of time. To book, call (07) 4776 1577 and ask about arranging your courtesy bus pick-up.
Explore the menu and find out more at leeshotelingham.com.au
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Lee Porter, Don Porter and Allison Chellingworth. Photo Credit: Meals on Wheels
Cardwell Meals on Wheels Inc. held its 45th Annual General Meeting and Dinner at the Cardwell RSL on 16th October.
During the meeting, the committee for 2026/2027 was elected, with all key roles reinstated from the previous year.
Don Porter (President), Allison Chellingworth (Treasurer), Lee Porter (Secretary), Lynn Crawford (Assistant Secretary) and Sue Hart, Katrina O’Brien, Peta Johnson, Carol Palmer, Mandy McGree, Caroline Dyer, and Arlie Robinson (Committee Members).
The annual meeting honours the legacy of the Cardwell Meals on Wheels, paying respect to the past leadership committees of the corporation.
Cardwell Meal on Wheels will continue to support those in need, working together in an already established working dynamic.
The Annual General Meeting was celebrated with volunteers, clients, guests and kitchen staff from Churches of Christ.
As the night progressed past the official segment, the evening was filled with events like a quiz competition and spot raffle.
The food was provided by Terry and Mamiko and was well loved by all of the guests.
Anyone interested in volunteering for our organisation, please contact our Convenor, Lisa Cartwright, on 0428980104, or email cardwellmow@hotmail.com
Cassowary Coast Council’s Director Infrastructure Services David Goodman receiving the award at IPWEA 2026. Photo supplied
Mission Beach’s $20 million CBD Revitalisation project has taken top honours at the 2026 Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia Queensland & Northern Territory Excellence Awards, earning recognition alongside major infrastructure developments from some of Queensland’s largest councils.
Winning the Projects over $10 million category, the project was celebrated for its significant transformation of the town centre, renewing key public spaces, improving infrastructure and creating a more welcoming CBD while preserving the relaxed tropical character that makes Mission Beach so special.
The $20 million Mission Beach CBD Revitalisation project took top honours at the 2026 Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia Queensland & Northern Territory Excellence Awards last month, recognising the significant transformation of the local town centre.
Mayor Teresa Millwood said the win was a credit to everyone involved in delivering the project.
“This award is a real credit to the professionalism, dedication and hard work of everyone involved in delivering the Mission Beach CBD Revitalisation,” she said.
“We are proud to see a regional council project recognised alongside major infrastructure projects from some of the biggest councils in Queensland, and we thank our staff, contractors, local businesses and community for helping make it possible.”
The project secured the win in the Projects over $10 million category, impressing judges in a strong field of finalists.
Council said it was thrilled to see the quality of work involved in delivering the $20 million project recognised alongside much larger entries from some of Queensland’s biggest local governments.
Competing projects in the category included Logan City Council’s $80 million Loganlea Road Major Upgrade, Burke Shire Council’s $90 million Floraville Road Recovery Upgrade, and City of Moreton Bay’s Sparkes Road / Ellis Street Intersection Upgrade.
The Mission Beach CBD Revitalisation transformed the heart of the township, delivering a revitalised Village Green and Porter Promenade, stormwater drainage renewal, road and footpath reconstruction, intersection improvements, new streetscapes, outdoor dining areas, public art, lighting, landscaping and improved beach access.
The project addressed ageing infrastructure and helped renew confidence in the Mission Beach town centre, while preserving the relaxed tropical character valued by the local community.
“This award recognises a whole-of-organisation effort, including contributions from our planning, design, procurement, contracts, finance and project delivery teams, our construction crews, contractors, consultants, and staff who kept the community informed throughout delivery,” Council said.
“We also thank the Mission Beach community and local businesses for their support throughout the project, which helped deliver a result that will benefit the township for years to come.”
More than 25 people attended the From Pub to Paddock event, with a special session focusing on Pigs, Pests & Weeds. Photo supplied: Cassowary Coast Council
More than 25 interested community members gathered together at the Mena Creek Hotel last week for Council’s final From Pub to Paddock event of the year, with a special session focusing on Pigs, Pests & Weeds.
“It was especially great to see so many local farmers from the Mena Creek and Utchee Creek areas getting involved, asking questions about weed identification and treatment options, sharing their experiences with feral pig problems and discussing different approaches to managing these challenges,” said a Council spokesperson.
“And that's exactly what these sessions are about – bringing people together, sharing local knowledge and finding practical ways to tackle the issues affecting our land and environment.
“A big thank you to everyone who joined us at Mena Creek and Euramo!”
Council stated that they have a small internal team tackling some big issues, and thanks to events like this, they feel the support and camaraderie of the broader community.
“Managing invasive weeds and feral pigs takes a collective effort from landholders, industry, community and all levels of government,” they said.
“Your willingness to show up, ask questions and share your experiences is what makes these conversations so valuable.
Council will take some time over the Christmas period to reflect on what's worked, what they can improve and what these sessions could look like in the future.
“Until then, thank you for supporting our team and helping keep the conversation going!”
Dr Rob Magarey and William Moran outside the former Tully Visitor Information Centre, one step closer to realising their vision for an agricultural heritage centre. Photo credit: Helen Cook
The former Tully Visitor Information Centre is one step closer to a new lease of life, with Cassowary Coast Regional Council approving a Facility Use Agreement with the Wet Tropics Agricultural Heritage Centre. The agreement is subject to conditions, including a decision on the future of the Australian Sugar Heritage Centre's collection, formerly housed at Mourilyan, and provision for the Tully Arts and Cultural Precinct group.
The decision, announced on 30th October, follows months of interest in the prominent Bruce Highway site from two community organisations, each with ambitious plans for its future.
For the Wet Tropics Agricultural Heritage Centre, the approval is a significant step towards establishing a permanent home for the region's agricultural history, including the sugar, banana, timber and cattle industries.
The project gained momentum following the closure of the Australian Sugar Heritage Centre at Mourilyan after Cyclone Jasper in December 2023.
Committee members William Moran and Rob Magarey have been working with industry representatives and community supporters to establish a centre incorporating historical collections, machinery, photographs and personal stories.
Their plans also include reopening visitor information services and encouraging travellers to explore Tully and the wider Cassowary Coast.
Dr Magarey welcomed Council's commitment but cautioned that the project still depends on a decision by the Australian Sugar Heritage Centre regarding its collection and associated funding, with Gordonvale also under consideration.
"We've cleared the first hurdle. There are a couple more after that, with a meeting this week, so we'll see how we go," he said after receiving the news.
Meanwhile, local artist and arts advocate Dr Valerie Keenan, who has been leading efforts to establish a permanent Tully Arts and Cultural Precinct, congratulated the agricultural heritage group and wished them every success.
While Council's agreement includes provision for the arts group to retain current space in the building, Dr Keenan said ambitions extended beyond this arrangement.
"We appreciate the consideration given to our group, but our long-term vision is for a dedicated home for arts and culture in Tully," she said.
"Support for a Tully Arts & Cultural centre continues to grow stronger, and we hope Council will recognise the important role arts and culture play in bringing people together and enriching our community. We remain committed to making that vision a reality."
Mayor Teresa Millwood acknowledged the important contribution of community organisations.
"These agreements recognise the strong role local organisations play in delivering services, activities and opportunities that matter to their communities, from small rural recreation facilities through to tourism, environmental and heritage activation.
"We thank these community organisations for working with us to help ensure valued community assets continue to be used, improved and enjoyed for local benefit across the Cassowary Coast."
Janae Pearce and Tilly Poppi crowned as Maraka royalty. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
By Victoria Velton
The 2026 Maraka Festival has crowned its new Queen and Princess, with Janae Pearce and Tilly Poppi taking centre stage during a celebration that drew strong community support and renewed interest in the annual traditions.
Janae Pearce was crowned 2026 Maraka Queen with Brianna Lamari named runner-up, while Tilly Poppi took out the Maraka Princess title, followed by runner-up Lucy Egan. Kadence Torrisi was awarded Maraka Princess Miss Personality.
For Janae, the win was an emotional moment, bringing her Maraka journey full circle after she was crowned Princess eight years ago.
“Absolutely surreal. I feel like I'm living out all my little Janae's fantasies,” she said.
“Being princess eight years ago to now, fast forward, being queen, I am completely shocked, grateful, and excited for this opportunity.”
“I've got so many ideas- I want to bring back some very old Maraka traditions while keeping it fun and fresh for the new generation,” she said.
Her advice to future entrants was to enjoy the experience, regardless of the result.
“It doesn't matter if you win or lose. At the end of the day, we're here together as a community to support one another, and by far you will enjoy every moment,” she said.
New Maraka Princess Tilly Poppi said the experience had been both nerve-racking and rewarding.
“I feel very proud of myself, and I was very nervous before, and now I feel relieved, and I'm very happy,” she said.
“The journey to get here was very nerve wracking, but it was very fun, and I loved doing it with all my friends.”
Outgoing 2025 Maraka Queen Ainsley DiMaggio said handing over the crown was bittersweet, but she was excited for the new titleholders.
“It's amazing. It is a lot of work, but give back to your community as much as possible,” she said.
“I'm so excited to be able to give [the titles] to two beautiful ladies, and they're going to do amazing.”
Mayor Ramon Jayo said this year's festival had been well supported, with the turnout reflecting the community's enthusiasm for coming together.
He said he had initially been concerned that competing events, including the Australian Test in Townsville, could affect attendance, but was pleased to see the community embrace the celebrations.
“The festival is about celebrating our community, so it's really good to see the community come out and spend time with each other, have a yarn and celebrate together,” he said.
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The Mayor also welcomed the increased number of Queen and Princess entrants, saying the interest boded well for the future of the festival.
“People are embracing it, and we're starting to get back to the real level of energy for Maraka,” he said.
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The Queen and Princess Quest organisers thanked the entrants, coordinators, judges, committee members and sponsors who helped bring the celebrations together.
Rachel Cauchi Optometrists sponsored the Maraka Queen Quest, while BK Bartolini Concreting and Earthworks sponsored the Princess Quest.
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The new titleholders will represent the festival and the Hinchinbrook community throughout the year.
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Mind & Body: Reformed in Mission Beach has six reformers in her fully air-conditioned studio
Whether you're 16 or 86, a fitness enthusiast or someone who hasn't exercised in years, Alicia Roelofs has a place for you at Mind & Body: Reformed in Mission Beach.
And she's particularly keen to encourage more men to discover the benefits of reformer Pilates.
"Everybody gets the same benefits," Alicia said.
"You improve your posture, your core strength, your muscle strength and muscle definition."
Alicia recently invited clients to bring their partners along for a free class, with some of the men surprised to discover just how challenging Pilates can be.
"I think they have this image in their mind that it's really easy. But it's actually not!"
With just six reformers in her fully air-conditioned studio in Mission Beach, Alicia keeps classes small, friendly and personalised, adapting exercises to suit different ages, fitness levels and abilities.
Her oldest regular participant is 83 and attends the popular Mobility and Movement classes, designed to improve flexibility, posture and strength without placing unnecessary pressure on joints.
Other options include full-body circuits, toning, jump classes, stretching and myofascial release, with new strength training classes planned from mid-November.
But what really sets Mind & Body: Reformed apart is Alicia's flexibility.
Can't find a class time that suits? Bring your own group together!
"If I had six men who wanted to come along on a Wednesday at six o'clock, we could organise that," Alicia explained.
The same invitation extends to groups of friends, workmates, sporting teams and teenagers. Whether it's a regular weekly session, a four-week introduction or training tailored to a particular goal, Alicia is happy to explore arrangements that suit everyone.
With Christmas approaching, she's also encouraging friends and work teams to consider a Pilates or relaxation session as something different for their end-of-year gathering.
Regular classes run Monday to Thursday, with Saturday sessions offered according to demand. Casual bookings and flexible class packs mean there's no need to commit to the same time every week.
Tully State High School's Glenda Tenni with Year 12 student Saniya Singh in the school's e-learning centre.
World Teachers' Day, celebrated across Queensland on Friday 30th October, was an opportunity to recognise the remarkable people who educate, encourage and inspire our children. And at Tully State High School, few know the rewards of teaching better than Glenda Tenni whose connection to the school stretches back more than half a century.
Glenda's education began at Feluga State School, where she followed in the footsteps of her mother and siblings, before moving to Tully State High School as a student in 1970.
It was here that commerce teacher Bernadette Cuoco helped inspire her future career.
"I just enjoyed my subjects. I had a good teacher and I excelled at my subjects. And I always thought, this is what I want to do," Glenda recalled.
After completing teacher training at Kelvin Grove College in Brisbane, Glenda taught in Charters Towers and Ingham before returning to Tully. She later stepped away from teaching to raise her family and help run the family bulk fuel business. But the classroom eventually called her back.
For the past 26 years, Glenda has been a familiar face at Tully State High School, initially teaching commerce before becoming the school's e-learning coordinator in 2014.
It's a role that has opened new opportunities for students, allowing them to study subjects not offered through the school's regular curriculum, including economics, accounting and philosophy, as well as undertaking TAFE qualifications and school-based traineeships.
Around 122 students have participated in e-learning this year, Glenda says many arrive as early as 8am to begin their studies. Among them is Year 12 student Saniya Singh who is completing a Certificate II in Skills for Work and Vocational Placement. For Glenda, it's this individual support that makes the role particularly rewarding.
"I really enjoy my job as e-learning coordinator. You get to know students on a more personal level," she said. And while Glenda will celebrate her 70th birthday next year, retirement isn't on the agenda just yet. "Not while I still think I've got something to give," she said.
Glenda’s story perfectly captures this year's World Teachers' Day theme, 'Teachers change lives'. Inspired by one of her own teachers more than 50 years ago, Glenda continues to make a difference for the next generation.
Celebrating All Our Teachers
As schools across the Cassowary Coast celebrated World Teachers' Day on Friday, Cassowary Coast Life joins the community in thanking every teacher for their dedication, patience and encouragement, and the countless ways they help young people achieve their potential.
The Kauri pines lining Butler Street beside the Tully Showgrounds. Image credit: Helen Cook
By Helen Cook
For almost 90 years, the magnificent Kauri pines lining Butler Street beside the Tully Showgrounds have stood watch over the town, surviving cyclones, changing streetscapes and generations of community life.
Now, the possibility that some may need to be removed has sparked considerable discussion on social media, with locals sharing memories, expressing concern and questioning what might be done to preserve them.
Thanks to research shared by local historian Helen Pedley, we know the remarkable story behind these trees. Cardwell Shire Council minutes from April 1937 record the decision to plant 12 trees alongside the showgrounds and three opposite, commemorating the coronation of King George VI.
A procession made its way to the showgrounds, where Shire Chairman Cr Bryce Henry officially planted the trees, accompanied by speeches, music, dancing and celebrations.
The road was even named Coronation Avenue, although it was formally confirmed as Butler Street in 1995.
Over the years they've certainly weathered their share of storms. Cyclone Yasi in 2011 stripped them almost bare, leaving what Mayor Teresa Millwood recently described as enormous matchsticks.
Responding to community concerns on social media regarding their removal, Mayor Millwood acknowledged their historical importance while explaining Council's responsibility for public safety.
She confirmed assessments were continuing, with no final decision made, although she stated that some trees had sustained damage beyond repair.
Local arborist Mark Gough of Gough Tree Services offered another perspective, suggesting that while two trees showed signs of rot likely to warrant removal within the next couple of years, the remainder appeared relatively healthy and structurally sound.
"There is no reason they can't continue to be managed and monitored into the future," he
Next year, Tully's Coronation pines turn 90. Some residents are calling for the community to celebrate their remarkable history while working together to preserve as many as safely possible.
Volunteers from left, standing: Mike, Louis and Michael; sitting Pauline (MOW Committee Member & Convenor), Dina and Chrissie
It was a morning of friendship, laughter and appreciation as Tully Meals on Wheels volunteers gathered for their annual thank you morning tea, celebrating the people who generously give their time to support others.
Held at the Tully Leagues Club, the gathering was an opportunity for President Leslee Morgan to thank the more than 40 volunteer cooks, kitchen assistants and drivers who keep this much-loved community service running.
In the last financial year alone, volunteers prepared and delivered 4,593 meals, providing not just nutritious food but a friendly face and welcome connection for local residents.
Among those celebrating was 90-year-old Pauline Edwards, whose remarkable association with Tully Meals on Wheels stretches back to its beginnings in 1979.
"I went to the first meeting to see whether Tully needed a Meals on Wheels," Pauline recalled.
Little did she know that 47 years later, she'd still be helping coordinate thousands of meals each year.
Today, Pauline is the kitchen convener, overseeing menus, ordering supplies and coordinating the volunteers who keep everything running smoothly.
From humble beginnings, when just three people received meals on the first delivery day, the service has grown to provide around 30 meals each Monday, Wednesday and Friday.
And the favourites? Fish on Fridays, spaghetti and homemade soups, often featuring whatever fresh ingredients are available.
Over the years, Meals on Wheels has supported countless residents, from older people living independently to those recovering from illness or needing temporary assistance.
New volunteers are always welcome to help when regular volunteers aren’t available.
To lend a hand, contact Tully Meals on Wheels on 4068 1497.
Serving up thanks to a dedicated team
As the volunteers gathered for their annual morning tea, it was a reminder that the strength of Meals on Wheels lies not just in the meals prepared and delivered, but in the friendships, kindness and community spirit that have sustained it for almost half a century.
Students from Our Lady of Lourdes, St Peter’s Catholic School and Gilroy Santa Maria College joined the Big Red Walk on October 30th, creating a sea of red in support of Day for Daniel and the Daniel Morcombe Foundation. Photo source: Our Lady of Lourdes & St Peter’s Catholic School
By Victoria Velton
Three Hinchinbrook schools joined forces on October 30th, creating a sea of red as students and staff took part in a Big Red Walk to promote child safety and support the Daniel Morcombe Foundation.
Our Lady of Lourdes, St Peter’s Catholic School and Gilroy Santa Maria College came together for the annual event, which honours Daniel Morcombe and supports the work of his parents, Bruce and Denise Morcombe, who established the Daniel Morcombe Foundation following their son's death.
The Foundation provides personal safety education to children and young people, encouraging them to recognise, react and report when they feel unsafe.
Before setting off on their walk to the Botanical Gardens, students at Our Lady of Lourdes heard from Christie and Megan from the Student Protection Team at Townsville Catholic Education.
“Our students [were reminded] of the importance of feeling safe every day, knowing their rights and understanding that their safety matters,” a spokesperson for the school said.
Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa also marked the event, acknowledging the work of Bruce and Denise Morcombe and praising their commitment to improving child safety across Australia.
“We remember Daniel Morcombe and honour his parents, Bruce and Denise, whose extraordinary strength and tireless work in his memory continue to help keep children safe across Australia,” Mr Chiesa said.
He said the Foundation had helped children learn to recognise, react and report unsafe situations, while Daniel's Law was helping parents and guardians better protect their children.
The schools thanked Queensland Police Service Highway Patrol and Police Liaison Officer Michelle Jardine for helping keep students safe along the walking route.
selectability has supported thousands of people across regional Queensland on their NDIS journey. Photo supplied
Whether it's accessing the right supports, strengthening community connections, building independence or pursuing personal goals, selectability has supported thousands of people across regional Queensland on their journey towards achieving their NDIS aspirations.
For more than five years, the dedicated Ingham team has been helping local participants make the most of their NDIS plans through a range of personalised supports. From in-home and community-based assistance to support coordination and Clubhouse programs, the team empowers people to build independence, develop meaningful connections and achieve their goals.
Chief Operating Officer Aaron Farrell said the team was committed to providing tailored support to build independence, create connections and enrich the lives of Ingham locals.
"We believe that everyone deserves to live the life of their choice, regardless of their location, circumstances, diagnosis or situation," said Aaron.
"We understand that everyone is different, so we prioritise person-centred support alongside practical tools and strategies to enhance an individual's quality of life and support them to achieve their goals."
The team also provides support for those not on the NDIS or looking to apply, so if you or someone you care for is interested, pop into the Mental Health Hub at the Canegrowers Building, 11-13 Lannercost Street, Ingham and have a chat with the team.
You can find out more information on available NDIS services or the Clubhouse group program timetable at selectability.com.au.
Abergowrie State School Principal Laura-Beth Martin with the 2026 Showcase School Award. Photo supplied
By Victoria Velton
Abergowrie State School has taken out a Queensland Showcase School Award, with its small rural school community earning state recognition for its work in early years education.
The school was named the 2026 Showcase School Award winner for Excellence in Early Years Education (Kindergarten to Year 2), announced at a ceremony at Parliament House in Brisbane on World Teachers’ Day.
For Principal Laura-Beth Martin, the award is a proud moment for the school and recognition of what a small rural community can achieve.
“To stand alongside some of Queensland's larger primary schools and be recognised at a state level reinforces an important message: the size of a school does not determine the size of its impact,” Ms Martin said.
“Being a small rural school does not mean having smaller ambitions, fewer opportunities or a lesser vision for our students.”
Ms Martin said the achievement reflected the work of the school's educators, the strength of its community connections and a shared commitment to giving children a strong start to their education.
“At Abergowrie, we are proud of what can be achieved when passionate educators, strong community connections and a shared commitment to children's learning come together,” she said.
She said the school's team was central to the recognition, praising their dedication to providing quality teaching and building strong foundations for every child.
“As Principal, I am incredibly proud of our dedicated team. Their passion, commitment and genuine care for every child are what make our little school so special,” Ms Martin said.
The school's approach to early learning extends from its Cheeky Monkeys Playgroup and Kindy through to the primary years, with a focus on high-quality teaching, meaningful learning experiences, building strong foundations and inspiring curiosity and a love of learning.
Ms Martin said the award belonged to the entire school community.
“This award belongs to our whole school community. It celebrates the people, the relationships and the commitment that makes Abergowrie such a wonderful place to learn and grow,” she said.
“This recognition is a celebration of our journey, the foundations we continue to build and the belief that every child deserves an exceptional start to their education, no matter where they live or how big their school may be.”
The award was one of nine presented to Queensland state schools at the 2026 Showcase event, recognising programs and practices making a difference to students and their communities. Showcase schools share in $120,000 in funding to help extend and share their successful work.
“We are incredibly proud to represent rural education and to show that great things are happening in our little corner of North Queensland,” Ms Martin said.
By Victoria Velton
Local fisher Bradley Perkins has been appointed the new President of the Queensland Seafood Industry Association (QSIA) at the association’s annual general meeting in Bundaberg this week.
A third-generation inshore fisher from the Hinchinbrook region, Mr Perkins steps into the role following the departure of fellow North Queenslander Allan Bobbermen, who has served on the QSIA Board for 10 years, including five years as President.
Mr Perkins acknowledged Mr Bobbermen’s passionate and dedicated leadership, recognising the significant contribution he had made to representing Queensland’s commercial fishing industry through a period of considerable regulatory change.
He said Mr Bobbermen had been a strong advocate for commercial fishers, their families and the broader industry, helping ensure their voices and experience were represented in decisions affecting their livelihoods.
“I am honoured to take on the role and, on behalf of the Board and our members, I thank Allan for his service and the strong foundation he leaves behind,” Mr Perkins said.
Hinchinbrook will continue to have a strong presence on the association’s board, with local seafood business owner and industry advocate Rebecca Zaghini also appointed as a director for the coming year.
Ms Zaghini, who operates Wild Local in Ingham, joins Mr Perkins as a fellow Hinchinbrook representative, bringing her own experience and advocacy for the local seafood industry to the peak body.
The appointments provide the region with two local voices at the boardroom table, at a time when the commercial fishing sector continues to navigate regulatory pressures and the challenges of maintaining a profitable and sustainable industry.
The QSIA represents commercial fishing businesses from the New South Wales border to the Northern Territory border, covering line, pot, net and trawl fisheries, as well as businesses supporting the industry.
The Queensland commercial fishing industry contributed more than $250 million to the State’s gross value of production in 2021–22, supporting more than 900 businesses and around 3,000 jobs.
Cattle wandering by the road in Hinchinbrook. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
North Queensland cattle producers are being urged to keep a close eye on their herds as warmer temperatures and increasing moisture create favourable conditions for cattle ticks to survive and spread.
The Department of Primary Industries (DPI) is warning that conditions this spring and summer, combined with a warmer-than-average winter across much of Queensland, could increase the risk of cattle tick infestations.
Cattle ticks can affect livestock productivity and animal health, while also transmitting the blood parasites responsible for tick fever. Early detection and proactive management are important to protecting herds and reducing the risk to farm businesses.
Producers should regularly inspect cattle and other animals that can carry cattle ticks. These include buffalo, bison, deer, horses, sheep, goats and camelids. Newly introduced livestock should be isolated and checked for ticks before being mixed with the existing herd.
The DPI recommends producers:
If tick fever is suspected, producers should contact their veterinarian immediately.
Queensland has designated cattle tick zones, with different legal requirements applying to livestock movement. Producers should understand which zone their property is in and check the requirements before moving susceptible livestock.
Importantly, anyone who suspects cattle ticks are present in the cattle tick-free zone must notify Biosecurity Queensland.
With conditions expected to favour tick activity in the coming months, producers are encouraged to review their biosecurity plans and remain vigilant.
For further information about cattle tick management, treatment and livestock movement requirements, visit the Queensland Department of Primary Industries website at dpi.qld.gov.au or contact Biosecurity Queensland for advice.
Photos supplied
Good recycling habits are paying off across the Hinchinbrook Shire, with a recent kerbside bin audit showing most material placed in recycling bins is ending up in the right place.
The findings, recently reported through Council’s 2025-2026 Waste Services Annual Performance Report, also reveal simple opportunities for residents to recycle even more, reduce waste sent to landfill and make the most of the recycling and recovery programs already available across the Shire.
The audit, which sampled households across Ingham, Halifax, Lucinda and Forrest Beach, found more than 80 per cent of material placed in yellow-lid recycling bins was recyclable, with cardboard, paper and glass among the most commonly recycled items.
With the recycling contamination rate of just 19.2 per cent, the lowest among councils in the North Queensland Regional Organisation of Councils region.
Mayor Ramon Jayo said the results were encouraging and highlighted the positive efforts already being made by the community.
"More than 80 per cent of what we found in recycling bins was recyclable material, which is a great result and shows residents are making a real effort to recycle correctly," Mayor Jayo said.
"While the audit shows residents are doing a great job with recycling, there are still opportunities to recover more valuable resources.
“Every year, more than $220,000 in container refunds goes unclaimed by residents across the Hinchinbrook Shire, with around $130,000 worth of eligible containers ending up in red-lid bins and going straight to landfill instead of being recycled through Containers for Change.”
Mayor Jayo said one of the easiest ways residents can reduce waste and put money back in their pockets is by taking eligible drink containers to a Containers for Change refund point.
“It's a fantastic program that rewards recycling, keeps valuable resources out of landfill and supports community groups and charities. Every container returned is a win for both the environment and the community,” Mayor Jayo said.
While recycling performance was strong, there is still room for improvement. The audit found nearly 14 per cent of material in red-lid bins could have been recycled instead, including paper, cardboard, plastics and glass.
Food scraps and garden waste accounted for a further 42 per cent of general waste bin contents.
Water and Waste Portfolio Councillor Pat Lynch said some of the biggest opportunities to reduce landfill were sitting in household waste bins.
“Simple actions like recycling cardboard boxes, plastic containers and glass jars, or composting food scraps and garden clippings at home, can make a significant difference,” Cr Lynch said.
The audit also identified common items incorrectly placed in recycling bins, including soft plastics (such as bags and wrappers), textiles, building materials, coffee cups, tissues and electronic waste.
Mayor Jayo said Council offered a range of recycling and recovery options to help residents dispose of items correctly.
“From kerbside recycling and Containers for Change to battery recycling, e-waste disposal and home composting, there are plenty of opportunities to keep valuable resources out of landfill,” Mayor Jayo said.
The audit found e-waste and products containing embedded batteries were still ending up in household bins.
Items with embedded batteries, such as toys, power tools, rechargeable appliances, vapes and mobile phones, should never go in household bins as they can pose a fire risk during collection and processing.
These items can be disposed of at designated battery recycling bins located at Council’s Main Office or Council’s Resource Recovery Centres at Halifax and Warrens Hill.
To help residents recycle with confidence, Council is encouraging the community to download the free Recycle Mate app.
Cr Lynch said Recycle Mate takes the guesswork out of recycling.
“If you're unsure where an item belongs, simply search for it in the app and it will tell you exactly how to dispose of it,” Cr Lynch said.
The audit found the average household generated around 10kg of general waste and 2.5kg of recycling each week.
Residents can download Recycle Mate free from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store and find more information about Council's waste, recycling and resource recovery programs on Council's website.
For those wanting to recycle more and waste less, the audit shows even small changes at home can make a significant difference.
Lulu is one little "keg on short legs!" We're not entirely sure of Lulu's breed mix, but we've been told she may be a Staffordshire Terrier x Dachshund. Whatever her mix, she's a unique girl weighing in at 21 kg and packed full of personality.
Lulu is a friendly, affectionate dog who loves human company and enjoys spending time with her people. She thrives on attention and would make a wonderful companion and loyal best friend. Lulu would be best suited as an only dog, where she can soak up all the love and attention for herself. While untested with cats, based on what we know of her, we would recommend a cat-free home.
Lulu is now searching for her forever family. She deserves a home where she can feel safe, loved, and part of the family for the rest of her days.
Included in adoption fee of $530 DESEXED, MICRO-CHIPPED, up to date VACCINATIONS, FLEA/TICK/INTESTINAL WORM treated & and heartworm treated. Enquire today at angelpawsinc.com.au/pets-for-adoption/dogs/
Sex: Female
Breed: Staffordshire Terrier X Dachshund
Colour: Black n’ Tan
DOB: 07/08/2025
Cat Friendly: Unsure
Dog Friendly: No
Kid Friendly: Yes
Damon and the apprentices of DRM Plumbing FNQ. Photo supplied
From keeping homes and businesses running to helping North Queensland prepare for the unexpected, DRM Plumbing FNQ is delivering essential plumbing and gas services across the region, backed by more than 27 years of industry experience.
Locally operated by Damon and Renee McLeod, DRM Plumbing FNQ provides a comprehensive range of services covering plumbing, drainage, roofing, maintenance and gasfitting, as well as specialised products designed to meet the needs of homes, businesses and industry.
With Damon a fully licensed plumber and QBCC licensee across plumbing, drainage and gasfitting, customers can access experienced, qualified service for projects big and small. From new roofing installations and full roof replacements to repairs and ongoing maintenance, the team can assist with roof screws, gutters, downpipes, flashings and rainwater tanks.
Drainage is another important part of the business, with services covering the pipes, traps, vents and fittings that safely carry wastewater and sewage away from properties to sewer or septic systems. DRM also undertakes septic tank and trench work, along with clearing stubborn blockages caused by tree roots and other obstructions using its jet rodding machine.
The business can also help with hot water unit repairs and replacements, as well as gas plumbing for stoves, ovens and hot water systems.
Beyond its everyday plumbing services, DRM Plumbing FNQ is the distributor for Dam Easy Flood Barriers across North and Far North Queensland. Designed as a practical flood protection solution, the barriers offer property owners another option when preparing for the region’s recurring natural disasters.
DRM is also a SUPAGAS dealer and agent, supplying LPG alongside industrial, medical, specialty and helium gases through one of Australia’s leading gas suppliers.
While the range of services is extensive, Damon and Renee are equally focused on building something that contributes to the region’s future.
DRM Plumbing FNQ proudly supports the next generation of tradespeople, employing both a full-time apprentice and a school-based apprentice. Providing young local people with hands-on experience, guidance and opportunities to develop their skills is an important part of the business, helping build pathways into a rewarding career in the plumbing trade.
That commitment extends beyond the workplace, with DRM regularly supporting local sporting clubs, charity events and youth development programs. Its community involvement reflects a business that values relationships and recognises the importance of giving back to the people and organisations that make the region strong.
For Damon and Renee, running a local business means being there when the community needs them, creating opportunities for young people and supporting the clubs, events and organisations that bring the region together. It is a commitment they continue to put into practice through DRM Plumbing FNQ, every day.
The Mayor’s Christmas Appeal is now underway and, once again, I’m asking our community to get behind local families who may be doing it tough this festive season.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned as Mayor, it’s that our people look after one another.
We all know the past few years haven’t been easy. Many households are still feeling the pressure of rising costs, higher bills and the everyday challenges that come with making ends meet. Yet, despite those pressures, our community continues to find ways to help others.
That’s what makes living in Hinchinbrook special.
Last year, I saw examples of generosity that genuinely humbled me. Students donated bursary prize money they had earned themselves. People quietly added an extra item to their shopping trolley knowing it would help a local family. Businesses, community groups and individuals gave what they could, not because they had plenty, but because they cared.
It's remarkable that when many of us are feeling the pinch ourselves, we still find room in our hearts to help someone else.
The Mayor’s Christmas Appeal is a simple way to do exactly that.
Whether it’s a new toy, a non-perishable food item, a gift voucher or a small cash donation, every contribution helps. What may seem like a small gesture can make a real difference to a local family at Christmas.
For a child, it could mean waking up to find a gift under the tree. For a parent, it could provide a little relief during what can be a stressful time of year. Most importantly, it sends a message that our community cares.
Donations can be placed under the Christmas tree at Council’s Customer Service Centre at 25 Lannercost Street, Ingham, during business hours.
All donations and funds raised will go directly to the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre, whose staff and volunteers work tirelessly throughout the year supporting vulnerable individuals and families across our region. Their work often happens quietly behind the scenes, but its impact is felt every day by those who need it most.
I would like to sincerely thank the centre’s staff and volunteers, as well as everyone who supports the Appeal each year.
The Appeal opens on Monday 2 November 2026 and closes at 5.00pm on Wednesday 9 December 2026, allowing time for donations to be sorted and distributed before Christmas.
As we head towards the festive season, I encourage everyone to consider whether they can spare a little to help someone else. It doesn’t have to be much.
If you’d like to know more, please contact Council’s Customer Service Centre on 4776 4600 or email council@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au for more information.
Ingham Probus Club gathered at the Forrest Beach Hotel to honour the Australia-wide celebration Photo credit: Victoria Velton
By Victoria Velton
Members gathered at the recently reopened Forrest Beach Hotel on Wednesday 28th October for a special anniversary celebration recognising five decades of Probus and the important role the club has played in bringing retired and semi-retired members of the Hinchinbrook community together.
The milestone traces back to 1976, when Australia's first Probus club was established at Hunters Hill in New South Wales. Since then, the organisation has grown into a nationwide network, with clubs providing opportunities for friendship, shared interests, activities and social connection.
The Ingham Probus President welcomed members, highlighting the significance of the occasion for the local club which is recognised as the oldest Probus club in North Queensland.
“This is a very special day. It's the 50th anniversary, but it's also our 45th,” the President said.
“As we're the oldest club in North Queensland, it's a very significant thing.”
The celebration recognised the achievements of the local club and the members who have helped it grow over the years.
Secretary Cheryl Scott spoke about the importance of maintaining friendships and making the effort to stay involved in community activities, particularly during retirement.
“I love my own company, but it doesn't do your mind and body any good. You have to get out and be around people,” she said.
“Sometimes I just think, ‘Oh no, I don't want to do that.’ But I get up because I know I have to, and when I come home, I feel good and I feel it's worth it.”
Ms Scott said the club was focused on providing members with interesting activities and opportunities to spend time together, with their regular Games Days continuing to attract interest.
“We're trying to help the club with interesting things to do,” she said.
The club currently has 60 members, with 42 attending the anniversary celebration and Lesley Scrace and Joy Butler cut the 50th celebration cake. Joy is a life member and Lesley’s father was a founding member of the Ingham Probus club.
Ingham Probus meets on the first Wednesday of each month at the Ingham RSL Club on Hawkins Street, offering members a regular opportunity to catch up, enjoy activities and stay connected.
Chris Gunston is pictured here with the Lecturette Judges – Deb Robinson, Madeleine D’Urso & Johanna Smith. Photo credit: Paul Longbottom
By Paul Longbottom
The longstanding Frank Fraser Lecturette sponsored by the Rotary Club of Hinchinbrook recently brought together six talented primary school students from Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Primary and Ingham State Schools to showcase their public speaking skills and confidence. Three students from each school participated in the competition, presenting their speeches to an audience and a panel of judges.
The judging panel consisted of Ingham State High School Senior Deputy Principal Deb Robinson, Rotary Club of Hinchinbrook President Madeleine D’Urso, and Gilroy Santa Maria Principal Johanna Smith. The judges had the challenging task of assessing the students’ presentations, considering their speaking skills, content, clarity and confidence.
The competition provided an excellent opportunity for students to develop their communication skills and gain valuable experience in public speaking. All six contestants are to be congratulated for their efforts and willingness to participate.
Congratulations to Chris Gunston, who was announced as the winner of the Frank Fraser Lecturette. His achievement is a wonderful recognition of his preparation and presentation skills.
A major Bruce Highway upgrade is underway, with works at Gairloch, Ripple Creek, Ingham-Halifax-Bemerside Road and the Cardwell Range targeting safer travel and improved flood resilience.
The long-awaited improvements aim to reduce the severity of flooding across key sections of highway and help prevent head-on crashes, addressing challenges that can disrupt communities and isolate motorists during the wet season.
Dress to impress at the Country Cups this November. Photo sourced: Herbert Rivr Jockey Club
This NQIB Country Cups Challenge Qualifier Race Day, racegoers are invited to embrace this year’s theme, Country Glamour. The Herbert River Jockey Club event will feature 10 Fashions on the Field categories, catering to everyone from junior entrants to experienced fashionistas.
Categories include Forrest Beach Realty Fashions on the Field, Ingham Mazda Contemporary Lady of the Track, NQ Travel & Cruise Classic Lady of the Track, The Bloom Room Townsville Millinery and Lifelong Supports Best Dressed Man of the Track. Junior and youth categories, alongside Spotter’s Choice, will offer further opportunities to take part.
Three judges will bring their individual fashion and racing experience to the competition.
Amy Byrnes grew up immersed in racing, travelling to meetings with her family and making memories at Cluden Park. Now a racehorse owner herself, she enjoys attending meets across Queensland and internationally. Amy will be looking for confidence, personality and the joy an outfit brings to its wearer, with an appreciation for thoughtful accessories and finishing touches.
Milliner Cat Murphy brings more than a decade of experience creating headwear worn at race meetings across Australia and in London. A passionate racing enthusiast, she values outfits that work cohesively with the theme, combining comfort, confidence and attention to detail. Millinery will naturally be a particular focus, whether a bold statement piece or a classic, understated design.
Marnie Davidson brings a competitive edge, having collected 27 sashes during three years of Fashions on the Field competitions around Australia. Her achievements include finalist positions at Flemington’s Melbourne Cup Derby Day and Turnbull Stakes, as well as qualifying for several major fashion events. A self-confessed lover of coordinated looks, Marnie will be keeping an eye out for the little details that bring an outfit together.
With experienced judges and a Country Glamour theme, racegoers are encouraged to bring their own interpretation of raceday style to the track.
For event information and the full list of categories, visit hrjc.com.au.
Cassowary Coast Regional Council has been recognised for its innovative approach to flood monitoring. Photo supplied
Cassowary Coast Regional Council has been recognised for its innovative approach to flood monitoring, taking home the Local Government Mutual Services (LGMS) Risk Excellence Award at the Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) Conference on Tuesday evening.
The award recognises Council's Flash Flood Sensor Network project, which uses radar technology to monitor water levels at known flood-prone locations across the region.
The information from the flood sensors is integrated into Council’s Disaster Dashboard, giving residents, emergency services and Council access to local conditions as they change.
Cassowary Coast Mayor Teresa Millwood said the recognition highlighted Council's commitment to finding practical ways to improve community safety and disaster preparedness.
"Living on the Cassowary Coast, we know how quickly heavy rainfall can turn into dangerous flooding, particularly in areas where water levels can rise with very little warning," Mayor Millwood said.
"These sensors give us another set of eyes on some of our known flood trouble spots, providing real time information without having to send staff out into potentially dangerous conditions.
"What's particularly important is that this information isn't just for Council. Our residents in flood prone areas can also access this information on the Disaster Dashboard to help them asses their risk, get prepared and make plans in case flooding looks likely."
The network has already supported information sharing with local police and State Emergency Service personnel around Mission Beach, helping emergency services monitor conditions at known flood-prone locations.
Previously, monitoring these locations relied heavily on weather forecasts, community reports and staff inspecting conditions on the ground.
The technology provides another source of information to support earlier identification of rising water levels, planning for potential road closures and coordinating responses during heavy rainfall.
Council is continuing to assess the network through a three-year trial, using observations from residents and emergency services to verify sensor readings and evaluate its effectiveness.
Residents can access flood monitoring information, road updates and other important disaster information on Council’s Disaster Dashboard by ticking *New Water Levels
Visit: www.disaster.cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au
Federal Kennedy MP Bob Katter at Australian Parliament House with his independent crossbench colleague Helen Haines MP, the Member for Indi. Photo supplied
I have spent sleepless nights since last Monday, praying for my long-term and good friend in the Parliament, Helen Haines, along with her family, staff and the first responders to an inexcusable act on a beautiful human being inside and out, who has brought much sparkling joy and enlightenment to the centre of the crossbench.
Whilst we are at opposite ends of the country and representing significantly different electorates, my tremendous respect of Helen’s tenacious advocacy for what she believes in, matches my great appreciation of our genuine friendship.
We don’t represent a political party based in Melbourne or Sydney or Brisbane – we represent the people who sent us to parliament: the people of our electorate.
And there’s no doubt that a terrible blow has been struck against democracy and the people of Australia.
A lady in every sense of the word, Helen is a true moderate of the highest regard across the political spectrum – with the ability to get on with people with very definite views like the teals on one hand, and people like himself on the other.
And I cannot help but think of her smiling face, whenever I leave the Chamber and tap her on the shoulder to ask, “You right if I leave this all under your control, Helen?” and her cheerful reply, “Yes Bob,” both of us laughing. Not to mention her culinary skills in constructing the most delicate of sponge cakes.
Though I react quite frankly with rage and fury at this evil that can have no exculpatory explanations, may we all pray that God’s blessings are with Helen and her family, staff and friends as we all rally around them to provide the support they need during this extremely difficult time.
Hon. Bob Katter MP,
Federal Member for Kennedy
The St Rita’s Gala Ball was held on Friday night. Photos supplied
Current and former students of St Rita’s School Babinda, alongside the wider community from near and far, came together over the weekend to celebrate 100 years of faith, connection and education.
Celebrations kicked off on Friday night with a special Gala Ball, attracting more than 100 guests.
Dressed in formal attire, attendees marked the significant milestone with an evening of music, food and friendship.
Local band Riff Raff kept the dancefloor busy, while a three-course dinner catered by Roscoes was a highlight of the night.
School Principal Michael Rowe said it was an honour to bring the community together to celebrate such a special occasion.
“People from all walks of life attended,” he said.
“A lot of past alumni, and we even had some from our sister school, St Rita’s South Johnstone.
“It was a special time to reflect and celebrate how far we’ve come over the years, and a time to think about the future as well.
“It’s great to see so many people proud of their schooling here.”
The celebrations continued on Saturday, beginning with a 10am Mass, followed by a special roll call and ceremonial cake cutting.
Families then enjoyed an afternoon of festivities, with a jumping castle, face painting and food trucks adding to the fun for younger attendees.
More coverage of the centenary celebrations will appear in next week’s paper.
The Mt Fox community rally members holding their protest banners. Signs about the project are prevalent in the Mt Fox area. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
By Victoria Velton
Residents, wildlife carers and environmental advocates gathered at Mt Fox last Saturday to voice concerns about the proposed Gawara Baya wind farm, warning that the development, located just 4.8 kilometres from the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area, could permanently alter a landscape they say is critical to local wildlife and the survival of vulnerable species.
The concerns voiced by attendees who live and work among the surrounding bushland include the clearing of habitat, potential increased traffic on narrow rural roads, noise and disturbance to wildlife and the spread of feral predators.
Mt Fox Community Progress Association president Kim Armstrong said the community was facing a significant decision about the future of its environment.
“This is a very significant moment in our area. Do we stand up and protect our natural environment or do we stand by and allow it to be destroyed?” Ms Armstrong asked.
One of the most immediate concerns raised at the rally came from local wildlife carer Brandie Becke, who said the area had provided a relatively safe environment for releasing rehabilitated animals back into the wild.
Ms Becke said she had chosen Mt Fox because of its quiet roads, surrounding national park and extensive Crown land.
She fears the proposed wind farm's construction and operation could undermine those conditions, particularly if traffic increases substantially on the region's gravel roads.
“We might have around 50 cars at a really busy time, but we're going to end up with around 250, 300 vehicles travelling around on our roads,” Ms Becke alleged.
She described the roads as potholed and narrow, with limited separation between roadways, private properties and protected areas. She said increased traffic could pose a serious risk to animals accustomed to moving freely through the area, particularly if drivers unfamiliar with the roads were travelling through more frequently and at greater speed.
Ms Becke also stressed that land clearing could remove important habitat and leave animals with fewer safe places to move.
“I brought [the animals] up here so I could release our animals into a safe environment,” she said.
“What am I doing now? I'm just putting them back in the exact same situation that they came from in the beginning.”
Noise and disturbance were also raised as concerns, with Ms Becke arguing that the effects of industrial development on wildlife could extend well beyond what people are able to hear.
She said she feared the impacts would not be limited to mammals and marsupials, but could also affect frogs, lizards, birds and other wildlife, including through disruption to breeding.
The potential effects of low-frequency noise on animal communication were another focus of the rally. Dr Roger Martin, a wildlife ecologist and biologist who has studied koalas since 1977, spoke extensively on the noise effects of the turbines, arguing that wind turbine noise could mask calls used by native animals to communicate.
These concerns were raised alongside broader questions about habitat fragmentation and whether wildlife would continue to be able to move safely through the landscape if development expanded across the ranges.
Other speakers included photographer and bushwalker Steven Nowakowski, who spoke about development planned for the region, and poet and carpenter Ardi Arda, who attended to show support and love for the community. Mr Nowakowski also read a letter from Jeanette Kemp, a former Queensland Government principal botanist.
The rally also drew support from Martine Shephard, who travelled from Western Australia, where she is involved in campaigns concerning proposed developments at Geographe Bay and Kalbarri. She spoke about the experience of communities confronting large-scale industrial projects and brought a message of solidarity to the Mt Fox residents.
Ms Shephard was credited with the slogan “Vikings Go Home”, which appeared on banners held by protesters.
Beyond the immediate footprint of the proposed Gawara Baya project, speakers expressed concern about the cumulative effects of wind farm developments across mountain ranges, arguing that individual projects should not be considered in isolation when assessing their potential effects on wildlife corridors and connected ecosystems.
They also questioned the arrangements for rehabilitating land after construction and decommissioning turbines at the end of their operational lives. Speakers raised concerns about what would happen to infrastructure left behind and whether adequate restoration and rewilding plans would be in place.
The potential attraction of feral predators to construction and maintenance roads was another issue raised. Speakers warned that increased roadkill could provide an additional food source for predators such as cats, adding pressure to rare and endangered wildlife already affected by habitat disturbance.
According to Windlab, the company behind the proposal, biodiversity will be a key consideration throughout the project.
“Gawara Baya has been designed to preserve almost 99% of potential habitat across its host cattle property for the life of the project,” their resources state.
“More than that, Gawara Baya will be the first renewable energy project in Australia to be delivered with a robust, measurable program for achieving biodiversity net-gain.
“This is part of our long-term, beyond compliance commitment to doing more for nature. Our approach is informed by more than 8,000 hours of detailed ecology studies and four years’ in-depth stakeholder consultation, collaboration and codesign.
“In Australia, Australia’s energy generation sector is by far our nation’s biggest source of greenhouse gases emissions. Decarbonising our energy system is the clear action we must take to address the compounding effects of climate change, including biodiversity decline.
“At the same time, Windlab has committed to leading practice ecological restoration and threat abatement programs that not only address the local scale impacts of the project, but support overall better outcomes for regional biodiversity at a landscape scale.”
Photo credit: Victoria Velton
By Victoria Velton
Welcome to the Cutting The Cane, a column where we have a chat with those supporting the backbone of the local economy: the farmers behind the sugar. This week Dave Perkins, a farmer of 63 years, answered our questions on his trial tissue culture operations.
What stage are your paddocks at now?
The paddock, the normal plant, was planted about two and a half months ago, and the tissue culture was planted about five weeks ago.
What varieties of tissue culture are you trialling?
I've planted all the new varieties that SRA give us. But I still keep going on with the old ones. I went back to a few Q 96 this year. That's not tissue culture, but that was some plants I bought just to see how they would perform. We used to grow a lot of Q 96 here before.
So, I’ve got a mix of old variety and the new variety that's come out this year. I don't trust the new varieties too much. So, I always have a fallback one.
Why have you chosen the varieties that you've growing?
Because I know they grow well here. I got Q 96 this year because even though it's an old variety, our farm here used to grow about 60% Q 96. Though I might only have one trailer for next year. That's about it. It’s a very sweet variety.
When you look to buy or trial new cane varieties, what are your priorities?
I like to get a variety that's smut resistant. Other than that, I asked my friend Darrin Harrigan, who started me on tissue culture about four years ago and he hasn't led me astray. I like a variety that's going to ratoon well, that's the main thing: ratooning well. If it doesn't ratoon, it's not worth it.
And smut is like a virus on the cane. It gets a black sooty smudge on the leaf, and then the centre of the cane, and then it ends up killing it. The varieties that are not resistant to it, they will eventually get it.
Tumeric Photo sourced: Shutterstock
By Joe Bond — The Honest Garden, Forrest Beach
From a little piece of rhizome to a beautiful harvest - There is something pretty amazing about growing ginger and turmeric - you plant what looks like a rather unimpressive little piece of root into the ground, wait patiently, and months later you can dig it up to discover a whole collection of beautiful new rhizomes underneath the soil. Here at The Honest Garden in Forrest Beach, ginger and turmeric have become part of our tropical garden.
Ginger and turmeric aren’t technically roots, classified as rhizomes, which are underground stems. When you buy fresh ginger or turmeric, you can often see little buds or “eyes” on the rhizome. These are the growing points. Rather than planting the whole piece, you can cut a healthy rhizome into sections, making sure each piece has at least one or two good growing buds. Allow freshly cut pieces to dry for a day or two before planting. This can help reduce the chance of the cut surface rotting once it is in the soil.
Our North Queensland climate is particularly suited to growing ginger. Ginger loves warmth, moisture and rich, well-drained soil. It doesn’t want to sit in waterlogged ground, but it also doesn’t like being allowed to dry out completely. Choose a warm position with good light. Ginger can tolerate some shade and, in our hot tropical climate, some protection from the harshest afternoon sun can be beneficial. Plant the rhizomes only a few centimetres below the surface, with the growing buds facing upwards. Then comes the hard part… Be patient!
Turmeric enjoys very similar conditions to ginger. Plant healthy turmeric rhizomes in rich, well-drained soil, with the buds facing upwards. Keep the soil consistently moist while the plant is actively growing. Turmeric produces beautiful green foliage and, given enough time, develops a lovely underground crop. It can also be grown in containers, provided the container is large enough to allow the rhizomes to spread and has good drainage.
One of the most important things we have learnt at The Honest Garden is that healthy plants start with healthy soil. Adding well-made compost or other suitable organic matter to the soil before planting can help improve its structure and provide nutrients. This is where composting and gardening really come together.
It is a wonderful natural cycle — from garden, to kitchen, back to garden again.
This is probably the hardest part of growing ginger and turmeric. You have to wait. Both plants spend a lot of their growing season developing their underground rhizomes while the foliage grows above the ground. As the growing season comes to an end, the leaves will naturally start to yellow and die back. This is a good indication that the plant is moving towards dormancy and the rhizomes may be ready to harvest. You can harvest younger ginger earlier if you prefer tender ginger, while allowing it to mature for longer produces a stronger, more developed rhizome. Turmeric is generally left to mature before harvesting.
Harvesting is like opening a little treasure chest. Carefully loosen the soil around the plant and lift the rhizomes from the ground. Brush away the excess soil and separate what you want to use immediately from healthy pieces that you might like to keep for planting the following season.
And this is one of the best things about growing ginger and turmeric — you can save some of your harvest to grow your next crop.
A Few Simple Tips
Growing ginger and turmeric is a great example of how gardening doesn’t always have to be complicated. You don’t need a huge garden. You don’t need expensive equipment. You only need a healthy piece of rhizome, good soil, warmth, water and a little patience. And when you finally dig beneath those leaves and uncover a beautiful crop of fresh ginger or turmeric, there is something incredibly satisfying about knowing you grew it yourself. So, if you’ve got a spare corner of your garden, why not give ginger or turmeric a go? You might just dig up a little tropical treasure of your own.
A 6-month-old kitten with such a big heart! Lily knows how to share the things that really matter: she loves cuddles and she loves her food. She’s at that wonderful age where she’s playful and curious, but also ready to build a strong bond with their forever family.
Lily is a calm and gentle cat, she’s sweet, affectionate, and loves taking things at her own pace. Give her a comfy spot, some tasty food and a good cuddle, and she’s a very happy girl. Raised with other cats, she knows how to be a good playmate and friend to any other feline companions your household might already have.
Included in adoption fee of $225 DESEXED, MICRO-CHIPPED, up to date VACCINATIONS, FLEA/TICK/INTESTINAL WORM treated. Enquire today at angelpawsinc.com.au/pets-for-adoption/cats/
Sex: Female
Breed: Domestic Short Hair
Colour: Grey Tabby
DOB: 01/03/2026
Cat Friendly: Yes
Dog Friendly: Unsure
Kid Friendly: Mostly
Contributed with thanks by the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre
For many of us, maintaining our homes and gardens is simply another part of everyday life.
Mowing the lawn, trimming overgrown gardens, clearing pathways and keeping up with general property maintenance are tasks we often take for granted.
But what happens when those everyday jobs become too difficult to manage?
For older residents, people living with disability, those experiencing health challenges or individuals juggling the demands of everyday life, maintaining a home and yard can become overwhelming.
And it's about much more than appearances.
An overgrown yard, uneven access or neglected maintenance can create safety concerns, reduce accessibility and affect a person's ability to feel comfortable and secure in their own home.
For some, the physical demands of maintaining a property are simply no longer manageable.
For others, finding the time, equipment or expertise to complete maintenance tasks can be challenging.
At Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre (HCSC), we recognise that practical assistance can make a meaningful difference to people's wellbeing, independence and quality of life.
Through our Home & Yard Maintenance Social Enterprise, HCSC provides property maintenance services throughout the Hinchinbrook region.
The service supports Community Housing Providers, local welfare and community organisations, and householders who may be older, frail or living with disability. Importantly, the Social Enterprise also provides services to the general public, making practical home and yard maintenance available to the wider community.
From general yard maintenance to practical property upkeep, the service helps create safer, more manageable living environments while supporting people to maintain their independence.
For someone who can no longer manage their garden, assistance with outdoor maintenance can mean being able to safely access their home and enjoy their surroundings again.
For busy households, having someone take care of maintenance tasks can free up valuable time and provide peace of mind.
And for community housing providers and local organisations, reliable property maintenance contributes to safer, more welcoming environments for the people who rely on those spaces.
Having a safe and comfortable place to call home is fundamental to our wellbeing.
When essential maintenance becomes difficult to manage, the impact can extend beyond the physical environment. It can affect confidence, independence, social connection and a person's sense of dignity.
Practical support is not always about doing everything for someone. Sometimes it's about providing the assistance they need to continue living safely and independently.
HCSC's Home & Yard Maintenance Social Enterprise is one example of how community-based services can respond to everyday challenges and make a positive difference in people's lives.
It also reflects the broader role of HCSC in supporting community members through practical services that contribute to safer, healthier and more connected communities.
Need a Helping Hand? Contact Us for a Quote
Whether you're a homeowner looking for assistance with your yard, a community organisation requiring property maintenance or someone finding it difficult to keep up with
everyday tasks around the home, our team would be happy to discuss your needs.
Home & Yard Maintenance is a fee-for-service Social Enterprise available to the general public, community organisations and housing providers.
To find out more about the services available or request a quote, contact Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre (the Hub) on 4776 1822.
Sometimes, making life a little easier starts with something as simple as a helping hand around the home.
Because everyone deserves to feel safe, comfortable and supported in the place they call Home.
Mayor Ramon Jayo with Ingham local Maria Giliberto. Photo supplied
One of the things I value most about our community is the way people come together, whether it's around the dinner table, at community events or through the traditions that are passed from one generation to the next.
Earlier this year, I put a call out to the community to help showcase a taste of Hinchinbrook as part of the Local Government Association of Queensland's A Shared Table cookbook project. The response reminded me just how rich our region is in culture, history and family traditions, and I thank everyone who took the time to share their recipes and stories.
A special thank you goes to long-term Ingham local Maria Giliberto, whose family recipe, Svelto Sano con Pasta – Tonno e Pomodoro, was selected to represent Hinchinbrook.
When Maria shared the recipe, she wasn't simply sharing a pasta dish. She was sharing a treasured piece of local history. The recipe originally belonged to her late mother, Grace Licciardello, whose cooking talents were recognised when the dish won the Senior Section of the Great Italian Bake-Off at the 2000 Australian Italian Festival.
Like many great family recipes, it proves that simple ingredients can create something special. Combining tomato, basil, olives, capers and tuna, the dish has brought family and friends together around the table for generations.
What I love most about Maria's contribution is that it captures exactly what A Shared Table is all about. Behind every recipe is a story, and behind every story are the people, traditions and memories that help shape our community.
By sharing her family's recipe, Maria has helped preserve an important piece of Hinchinbrook's history while showcasing the strong Italian heritage that continues to be part of our region today.
Last week, it was fantastic to attend the 130th LGAQ Annual Conference in Cairns alongside mayors, councillors and local government leaders from across Queensland. The conference provided an important opportunity to share ideas, discuss the challenges facing our communities and learn from one another.
One of the highlights for me was taking part in a panel discussion with the Mayor of Lismore.
Having the opportunity to speak openly about our flood experiences and recovery journeys reinforced the value of local government working together.
While every community's circumstances are different, sharing lessons learned helps us better prepare, respond and recover when disasters strike.
What I enjoyed most about this project was seeing the stories behind the recipes. They remind us that our community is built on the people who came before us, the traditions they passed on and the memories we continue to share.
Thank you to everyone who contributed, and especially to Maria for sharing a piece of her family's story with all of Queensland.
See Maria’s contribution below which is now shared across the State:
Ingredients
Method
For decades, people across the Herbert River district have been calling for improvements to the Bruce Highway at Gairloch.
Anyone who has lived through a North Queensland wet season knows just how frustrating it is when the highway goes underwater, cutting communities off and disrupting families, businesses and our local industries.
That's why it was particularly pleasing to stand alongside Premier David Crisafulli and Transport Minister Brent Mickelberg this week to announce that work is now underway on these long-awaited upgrades.
And I know plenty of locals will be thinking the same thing – it's about time!
During the Hinchinbrook by-election, I committed to fighting for the infrastructure our region deserves, and improving the safety and reliability of the Bruce Highway has remained a priority.
The works between Gairloch and Ripple Creek will include road widening, improved drainage and other upgrades designed to reduce flood-related disruptions.
Further safety improvements are also underway between the Ingham-Halifax-Bemerside Road intersection and the Cardwell Range.
These projects form part of a broader investment in the Bruce Highway, jointly supported by the Queensland and Australian Governments.
For our community, this isn't just about upgrading a road.
It's about families getting home safely, people making it to work or medical appointments, and our farmers and businesses being able to move their produce and freight without unnecessary disruptions.
We can't stop the rain, but we can build better infrastructure to help our communities withstand it.
There is still plenty of work ahead, including the broader floodway improvements needed at Gairloch, but seeing construction underway is an important step forward.
Next week, I will also be back in Parliament for another issue I have continued to advocate strongly for – Breach Bail, Go to Jail.
During the by-election, people across Hinchinbrook made it clear they were tired of repeat offenders being released on bail and going on to commit more crimes.
I listened, and I have continued fighting for stronger consequences.
The proposed legislation will introduce tougher bail requirements and mandatory minimum detention or imprisonment for certain serious offences committed while on bail.
Following the parliamentary committee process, these laws are now expected to be debated and passed next week.
Bail is a privilege, and there must be consequences when that privilege is abused.
Whether it's delivering long-awaited road improvements or fighting for stronger laws to make our communities safer, my focus remains on getting practical results for Hinchinbrook.
There is more work to do, but we're making progress on the issues that matter to our community.
As the end of another membership year for Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Tourism Inc. wrapped up on September 30th, it is the time of year where the business community come together to acknowledge and celebrate Chamber’s achievements over the past year. It is also a time where members may consider stepping up to become involved in an executive role, as all current positions of president, vice president, secretary and treasurer will be declared vacant and nominations are now being accepted.
Chamber has once again had another incredibly busy year supporting and advocating for the local business community. Some of the key priorities of focus this year has been advocating for business priorities such as increased insurance policy impacts; informing and supporting business owners with grant opportunities; collaborating and supporting with HSC Community Recovery events; once again hosting and managing the delivery of Markets at the Mosaic and the Shop & Win Campaign; marketing the Shire through the Hinchinbrook Festival of Events and Whole of Shire radio campaign; collaborating with Hinchinbrook Shire Council to deliver two Christmas in Hinchinbrook events in 2025; submission of three Chamber grant funding applications (one successful to date), and the executive believe it is important to share and celebrate Chamber’s contributions and thank the members for their continued ongoing support.
This year’s event will be held at Lee’s Hotel in Beer Garden, commencing at 5:30pm on Monday 16th November, 2026. All members and interested businesses owners are welcomed to attend the AGM.
Dr Cockburn is pictured (centre) with RDAA President, Professor Sarah Chalmers (left) and Rural Doctors Foundation Board Member, Dr Jean Little1wood (right). Photo source: RDAA
Dr Carmel Cockburn, a Rural Generalist doctor who has been a driving force behind the return of maternity services to Ingham, has received the Rural Doctors Association of Australia’s (RDAA) Rural Doctor of the Year Award for 2026.
Born and raised in Yungaburra, Carmel studied Medicine at James Cook University in Townsville before launching her medical career, training across hospitals in Mackay and Cairns.
During her studies Carmel met her future husband Damon – an electrician who is Ingham ‘born and bred’ – which eventually sparked a move to the town in 2015.
She has been a Rural Generalist Obstetrician at Ingham Hospital since then, and this year was also appointed as the hospital’s Medical Superintendent.
When asked what the Doctor of the Year award meant to her, Dr Cockburn said:
“It means a great deal. I love my community and my hospital, and I have long-term plans in Ingham. It has meant a lot, and it's been wonderful to share it with all of the staff at the Ingham Hospital - we work together as a great team.”
That team is, according to Carmel, a tight knit and hardworking one.
“The nursing and midwifery staff, many of whom are also Ingham born and bred, we are very bonded in that we work some pretty long hours in some sometimes difficult situations… I guess being in it together and looking after each other, that'swhat makes it so special.”
Dr Carmel believes that in rural medicine it’s vital to understand your community’s needs.
“A top rural doctor for me is someone who is really trying to meet the needs of the community they live in,” said.
“All rural little towns across Australia have different needs, and doctors need to be willing to advocate for their community and listen to the people in the community, to meet their needs and work hard meeting their needs.
“To me, that's that's the special thing about rural doctors.”
When asked whether she had any advice for future healthcare providers, Dr Carmel’s answer was simple.
“Go to a rural place to find out what it's like.
“You can't put into words what it's like working in a rural hospital. Actually going and experiencing that face to face and hands on, as well as getting yourself a really good mentor – that would be my advice.”
RDAA President, Professor Sarah Chalmers said Carmel’s colleagues have described her as an excellent, dedicated clinician who provides top-level care.
“She was integral in re-establishing the maternity service at Ingham Hospital, which has just celebrated ten years…” Professor Chalmers said.
“Across that decade, she has spent countless hours working in the maternity unit – at all hours of the day and night...
“Fittingly, three of Carmel and Damon’s four children have been born in the re-opened maternity unit, with their oldest son one of the first babies to be delivered there.
“Carmel is widely respected for her calm and cohesive leadership, and is described as an unstoppable force of nature who is available 24/7 for her colleagues.
“Most of all, she applies her kindness in everything she does.”
Outside Medicine, Dr Cockburn said she enjoys fishing, boating and spending time at the beach “with my beautiful family”. All six members of the Cockburn family are part of the Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club.
Photo source: Premier of Queensland David Crisafulli
Works are starting on new Bruce Highway upgrades at Gairloch, designed to help reduce the severity of flooding across this section of highway and the occurrence of head-on crashes.
Construction is now underway on two key sections. The Gairloch to Ripple Creek section will widen the road and improve drainage, while the Ingham-Halifax-Bemerside Road and Cardwell Range section will widen the road, with both projects delivering critical safety improvements.
Under the $9 billion Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program which began last year, 18 projects have been completed, 20 are underway, and 7 are expected to start construction this year, delivering a pipeline of upgrades along the highway between Gympie and Cairns.
In total, 150 projects are in planning, design, construction or have been completed through the $9 billion investment in the Bruce Highway.
The first stage of works between Gairloch and Ripple Creek is using efficiencies realised under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, while the other works are part of the $1 billion Bruce Highway Safety Package and funded on an 80:20 basis.
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli said the government was getting on with fixing the Bruce.
“We’re serious about bringing it up to the standard it should be and we’ve got shovels in the ground,” Premier Crisafulli said.
“Upgrading the Bruce at Gairloch has been spoken about for decades, and finally now work is being done.
“We’ve secured a funding deal that respects your money and means more upgrades to make the Bruce safer, stronger and more reliable.”
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said the Bruce Highway was vital for local passengers.
“The Bruce Highway is a critical connection for North Queensland communities, freight operators, businesses and visitors.
“The works north of Ingham will help strengthen a section of highway that is frequently impacted by wet weather, providing better connections for local communities and the industries that rely on this important corridor.
“Investing in resilience means investing before disaster strikes, helping communities stay connected to essential services, supporting recovery efforts and reducing the impacts of future natural hazards.”
Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Road Brent Mickelberg said the start of construction across the Bruce marked an important step towards delivering safer and more reliable journeys.
“With further projects progressing from Gympie to Cairns, a significant program of work is gathering pace across the Bruce Highway,” Minister Mickelberg said.
“Under the 80:20 funding deal we struck with the Commonwealth – which we were told couldn’t be done – every cent of the $9 billion is being spent upgrading the Bruce Highway between Gympie and Cairns.”
State Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa said the funding would make the Bruce safer for locals and visitors.
"This announcement shows exactly what can be achieved when Hinchinbrook has a strong voice at the Government table. I committed to fighting for the infrastructure our region deserves, and today we're seeing that commitment translate into real investment for North Queensland,” Mr Chiesa said.
“Locals know better than anyone just how often this section of road goes underwater. Every wet season, families, businesses and transport operators face uncertainty when this vital link is cut. This investment is about building a safer, more resilient road network that keeps our communities connected when it matters most."
"This road is among the most flood-prone stretches of highway in Queensland, and the people who live and work here know the challenges that come with that reality. Today's investment demonstrates the Crisafulli Government's commitment to North Queensland and to delivering practical projects that improve safety and reliability for local communities."
This month, I want to share some positive news with our community about two important achievements for the Cassowary Coast and encourage everyone to have their say through Council’s 2026 Community Scorecard.
Firstly, I am very pleased to advise that Council has won the Projects over $10 million category at the 2026 Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia, Queensland & Northern Territory (IPWEA-QNT) Excellence Awards for the Mission Beach CBD Revitalisation, earning statewide recognition for one of our region’s most significant public infrastructure projects.
This state award recognises the quality of a major public infrastructure project delivered here in the Cassowary Coast.
The project has transformed the heart of Mission Beach through upgraded public spaces, improved drainage, road and footpath reconstruction, landscaping, lighting, public art and better beach access, while preserving the relaxed tropical character valued by the community.
I thank the Mission Beach community, local businesses, Council staff, contractors and consultants who all contributed to this significant project.
Secondly, Council has also been recognised for its work in strengthening flood risk management through our Flash Flood Sensor Network and Disaster Dashboard Integration project.
The Cassowary Coast is highly vulnerable to intense rainfall and flash flooding, and this project is helping Council improve the way we monitor and respond to rapidly changing conditions.
Council has now installed 21 real-time flash flood sensors at key high-risk locations as part of a three-year trial. These sensors feed live information into Council’s Disaster Dashboard, improving situational awareness for Council, emergency services and the community.
This means Council is less reliant on delayed reporting, regional data or sending staff into hazardous conditions to inspect known trouble spots during severe weather. Instead, we have better local intelligence to support faster, more informed decisions about road conditions, warnings, response actions and community safety.
The project is also helping strengthen coordination with emergency services and response agencies by providing more timely and reliable local information when conditions are changing quickly. It is a practical investment in community safety and a strong example of how innovation can improve disaster preparedness and response in a regional area.
As we head into the wet season, I encourage all residents to take practical steps now to Get Ready. Forecasts may be pointing to a drier and warmer than average start to the season, but that does not mean severe weather will not occur. Heavy rain, flooding and tropical cyclones can still develop quickly, and preparing early means you are ready if conditions change.
Residential ratepayers will have received a waste voucher with their latest rate notice, which can be used to dispose of a load of eligible dry household waste. I encourage residents to use this opportunity to clean up around the home and yard, clear gutters, secure loose outdoor items, check emergency kits and make sure household plans are in place.
Please also remember that Council’s Disaster Dashboard is the best place to find local weather warnings, road closures, power outage information and emergency updates when severe weather affects our region.
Finally, I want to strongly encourage everyone across the Cassowary Coast to take part in the 2026 Community Scorecard.
If you receive the Scorecard in your letterbox or inbox, or access it online, please take a few minutes to complete it before 6 November 2026. This is your opportunity to rate Council services, tell us what matters most to you, and help shape Council priorities, community outcomes and advocacy.
The Community Scorecard is one of the most important ways we hear directly from our residents. Your feedback helps Council understand what we are doing well, where we need to improve, and what matters most to our communities now and into the future. I strongly encourage everyone to take part.
Council will continue working to deliver practical outcomes for our communities and to ensure the Cassowary Coast remains the most liveable tropical community.
Enjoying a taste of Italy around the table at Plenty, Mission Beach. From left, Giuseppe and Toni Santomingo, Lois Dawes and Veronica Papenga. Photo credit: Helen Cook
Fancy learning something new, making a few friends and giving your brain a workout?
Tully resident Veronica Papenga is inviting locals to pull up a chair and try their hand at Scopa, a traditional Italian card game that brings people together for fun, friendship and a taste of Italian culture.
Veronica grew up in Brisbane, learning Scopa from her father and grandfather, or Nonno, and watching family members gather around the card table. But her family's connections to Far North Queensland run deep. Her Italian grandparents emigrated from Italy and worked as sugarcane cutters in the Innisfail district, while her parents first knew each other as children through a family friendship that began at the Silkwood Hotel.
Eighteen months ago, Veronica and her husband relocated from Brisbane when he secured a job at Tully Sugar Mill. Now, with their first baby due any day, her parents are considering moving back to the Far North to be closer to family. And Veronica is keeping family traditions alive by sharing them with her new community.
Scopa, meaning 'to sweep' in Italian, is played with a special deck of 40 cards featuring four suits – coins, cups, clubs and swords. It's a game of numbers, memory and strategy, where players collect cards by matching values or adding them together.
There's also Briscola, another popular Italian card game using the same deck, but with different rules, scoring and a trump suit, offering another challenge for those keen to learn.
For Veronica, these games are much more than entertainment.
"I've grown up playing Scopa. It means a lot to me because it's part of my family," she said.
“I still play every week.”
She's even used the game to help children learn English while working as an au pair in Italy.
Veronica has already introduced Scopa to a small group at Nonna Angelina's in Innisfail and recently organised a gathering at Plenty in Mission Beach.
Even with a newborn imminent, she's planning more opportunities for locals to get together and learn the games, with dates and venues to be announced. Young or old, Italian or not, everyone's welcome to pull up a chair and try their hand!
To find out about upcoming gatherings, follow Scopa Club on Facebook or call Veronica on 0449 149 700 – but perhaps leave a message, as she might have her hands full with a new arrival!
Celebrating a successful first year in business The Professionals office on Edith St, Innisfail. From left: Segrid, Lynne, Barb, Terri, Taylah and Annette. Photo credit: Helen Cook
For Annette Swaine, celebrating the first anniversary of Professionals Innisfail is about more than business success. It's about building a team, creating opportunities and contributing to the community she calls home.
Annette and husband David opened Professionals Innisfail on 1 October 2025, transforming a building purchased as an investment into a thriving real estate agency. Twelve months later, the agency has grown from two staff to a busy team servicing properties from Babinda to Cardwell.
Annette specialises in residential property and land, while David focuses on commercial property and business sales.
The agency has expanded its property management portfolio, acquiring rent rolls from First National and Babinda Real Estate.
Today, the team includes three full-time property managers, administration support and salesperson Segrid, who recently joined the agency.
For Annette, building the right team has been as important as growing the business.
“The biggest thing for me has been to build a culture within our office,” she said.
Receptionist Taylah is a perfect example of that commitment.
“She's now undertaking real estate qualifications and preparing to move into property management,” Annette said.
“It's good to help staff grow into what they want to do.”
Annette’s approach reflects a colourful career spanning more than 20 years in the Queensland Police Service, retiring as a sergeant, before operating a fishing charter and boat hire businesses in Cardwell and Mission Beach.
Fishing remains her greatest passion to this day.
“When I retired, I said I was retiring to go fishing. And literally I was!”
But with those businesses behind her, these days, she's happiest escaping onto the water for recreation whenever the weather and workload allows.
“I suppose it's more therapy than anything,” she said.
But Annette's community involvement doesn't stop at real estate. Having previously stood for state parliament, she's now spearheading the revival of the Innisfail Chamber of Commerce after years of inactivity.
With more than 20 members already involved and an annual general meeting planned for January, she's optimistic about rebuilding a strong voice for local businesses.
For Annette, whether mentoring staff, helping people find homes or supporting fellow business owners, it's about creating opportunities – and hopefully finding the occasional weekend to go fishing.
Dr Valerie Keenan’s passion for preserving Tully’s rich Indigenous cultural heritage is central to her vision for a permanent arts and cultural precinct in the town
After three years of exhibitions, workshops and fundraising, Tully Arts and Cultural Precinct Inc is making a determined bid to secure a permanent home in the former Visitor Information Centre.
At the heart of the campaign is local artist, researcher and cultural advocate Dr Valerie Keenan, whose lifelong passion for art, history and Indigenous culture has helped inspire the community initiative.
The vision is to transform the Bruce Highway premises into a year-round cultural hub, featuring a public gallery, heritage displays, creative workshops and a Keeping Place for Aboriginal cultural objects.
The organisation has occupied part of the building for nearly two years and has lodged an expression of interest with Cassowary Coast Regional Council to secure its future.
For committee chair Valerie, it's an opportunity to create something she believes Tully has needed for decades. Born and raised in the district, Valerie remembers a thriving local arts community, including her mother, Gladys Henry, the first female councillor for the Cardwell Shire Council and an artist with a deep interest in local Aboriginal culture.
“There were more opportunities for artists in my mother’s day, but by the time I left school, there were very few pathways into the arts,” Valerie recalled.
It wasn't until her 40s, when she was living in the Torres Strait, that she began formal arts studies, initially through Flying Arts, which delivered workshops to regional and remote communities. She subsequently studied visual arts, museum studies and ethnography, completing a PhD exploring historical correspondence, collecting practices and connections to country.
Her academic interests were deeply personal. James Cook University's Objects of Possession research project documents her mother's collection of 588 Aboriginal cultural objects, acquired by the Aboriginal Arts Board in 1979. Developed through relationships with Jirrbal, Girramay and Gulngay people, the collection represents an important record of the region's cultural heritage.
Valerie's professional career strengthened those connections. For 11 years she worked with Girringun Aboriginal Art Centre in Cardwell, supporting First Nations artists and bringing their work to national and international audiences.
Her contribution was recognised with a Museums & Galleries Queensland Achievement Award in 2019. Her research also took her to Norway to investigate nineteenth-century naturalist Carl Lumholtz's collections from the Herbert River region, culminating in an exhibition and publication.
Yet despite these international experiences, Valerie's focus has always returned to Tully.
"My work, my life has always been about this place," she said.
In 2023, with encouragement from Shane Greenwood, then manager of the Tully Support Centre, Valerie brought together local artists and community members to explore establishing a dedicated arts precinct.
Around 70 people attended the first public meeting, leading to the establishment of an incorporated organisation. Early supporters included respected Gulngay Traditional Owner and artist Clarence Kinjun, whom Valerie has known since childhood. Since that first meeting, the committee and members have worked tirelessly to build support and demonstrate what's possible.
Two major exhibitions, About Sugar Tully and Tradition, Ritual, Community, each attracted around 40 artists, while three book fairs, children's activities and printmaking workshops have engaged the community and raised funds.
But without a permanent home, the organisation's ambitions remain constrained.
The proposed centre would offer rotating exhibitions, a gallery shop, workshops, movie nights, oral history projects and heritage displays. Importantly, it would provide dedicated spaces for Gulngay Traditional Owners, including a future Keeping Place Museum for rainforest culture and repatriated cultural material.
Valerie said people had already offered significant cultural objects and historical memorabilia for safekeeping.
"They want things to stay locally," she said. "But we can't accept any of the offers at the moment because we don't have anywhere to put them."
The registered charity has developed a comprehensive business plan, three-year arts program and governance framework, supported by arts grants, community donations and fundraising.
For Valerie, the vision is about much more than an art gallery. It's about celebrating Tully's creativity, preserving its cultural heritage and opening doors for future generations.
"What drives me is that other people are interested as well," she said.
Having once left Tully to pursue her own artistic ambitions, Valerie hopes the community's shared enthusiasm will help create a place where local talent can flourish, stories can be preserved and the arts can become an enduring part of the town's future.
With council expected to consider the building's future at its October meeting, Valerie is encouraging residents to voice their support.
For more information: visit tullyartsandculture.org.au or email tullyprecinct@gmail.com.
Detectives from the Tully Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB) are appealing for public information following an incident in Tully on Friday, 16 October.
Initial information indicates between 2.30am and 3.10am, a woman in her twenties was assaulted by a male on a nature strip at Murray Street.
Police are appealing for anyone with dashcam vision on Murray Street north of Cook Street between 2.30am and 3.10am, or anyone who saw two people walking north on Murray Street.
Investigations are ongoing, anyone with relevant information or vision is urged to come forward.
Quote this reference number: QP2602047863.
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting.
Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.
If you’ve experienced sexual assault, it is not your fault and you are not alone. There are multiple ways to report what has happened to you depending on your situation.
If there’s an immediate danger, call Triple Zero (000). You can also report online via: https://forms.police.qld.gov.au/launch/SexualAssault, over the phone or face to face at a police station.
There are also Alternative Reporting Options available depending on your situation.
For confidential information, counselling and support, call the State-wide Sexual Assault Helpline on 1800 010 120 or 1800 RESPECT for 24-hour help.
Young sailors travelled from across Far North Queensland to compete in the regatta
Colourful sails filled the horizon at South Mission Beach over the weekend as around 40 boats and competitors from across North Queensland gathered for the 44th annual Mission Beach Regatta.
With sailors travelling from as far afield as Mackay, the Whitsundays, Bowen, Townsville, Cairns and the Tablelands and from all corners of the Cassowary Coast, the two-day event brought together generations of sailing enthusiasts for some friendly competition and camaraderie, in spectacular conditions.
Fair Winds And Good Times At Mission Beach
There was plenty of colour, camaraderie and good old-fashioned fun at South Mission Beach over the weekend as around 40 boats took to the water for the annual Mission Beach Regatta.
With a beautiful northeasterly breeze and spectacular views of Dunk Island, conditions were near-perfect for the two-day event, hosted by the Mission Beach Sailing Club.
Sailors travelled from as far as Mackay, the Whitsundays, Bowen, Townsville, Cairns and the Tablelands, joining local competitors from across the Cassowary Coast. The fleet included catamarans, monohulls and dinghies, with sailors of all ages and abilities enjoying some friendly competition.
"They had a beautiful northeasterly breeze, about 15 to 17 knots, perfect conditions," club secretary Carmen Walker said.
For Carmen, the regatta is about much more than racing.
"A lot of the Far North Queenslanders, we're like a big family up here, and these regattas are a gathering of our extended sailing family," she said.
"We love hosting the event and people love coming here because it's more of a laid-back regatta."
Among those enjoying the weekend was Clifton Beach sailor Brad Rees, returning after several years away through illness.
"This is like VIP weather. We've got a decent breeze blowing. It's just beautiful conditions here," he said.
Airlie Beach sailor Jacob McConaghy is preparing to compete in the International Moth World Championships in Perth, but the Mission Beach Regatta offered a chance for some relaxed racing aboard a Tasar with fellow sailor Emily Wells.
"It's just so much fun," Emily said, with the pair enjoying the beachside camping and opportunity to catch up with sailing friends.
Another highlight was the return of the club's junior Green Fleet for the first time in around 15 years.
"We had seven Green Fleeters," Carmen said, explaining that the young sailors, aged seven to 12, were developing the skills and confidence needed to progress into competitive racing.
Meanwhile, Mission Beach sailor Luke McMullern and crew member Giles Richardson, from Port Douglas, claimed line honours in the race around Dunk Island, completing the course aboard their Nacra 5.8 catamaran in one hour, 18 minutes and 10 seconds.
Carmen thanked the club's sponsors, particularly major supporter Tuskers, and encouraged anyone interested in sailing to come along to one of the club's three remaining sailing days before the season finishes in November.
"We can figure out what is suitable for their ability and skill level," she said.
For sailing dates and further information, visit www.missionbeachsailingclub.org.au.
Photo source: Shutterstock
Pest advice for the month across the Shire is Singapore Daisy. Singapore Daisy is a restricted invasive plant under the Biosecurity Act 2014. Even though Singapore Daisy is a pretty looking flower, it has the ability to quickly invade drainage systems, lawns and the natural environment, destroying its biodiversity by smothering native vegetation and pasture. Council is currently undertaking the annual inspection program.
If Singapore Daisy is suspected or observed around your property, please contact Council’s Biosecurity Team for further investigation and advice.
nbn technicians have been busy laying fibre in Ingham. Photo credit: nbn
With the wet season approaching, nbn is encouraging residents and businesses across Ingham to check whether a full fibre connection is available to them and act before the weather arrives.
Where available, a nbn full fibre via Fibre to the Premises (FTTP) can provide more reliable connectivity than a legacy copper-based connection and is less vulnerable to environmental damage or water ingress.
nbn technicians have been busy laying fibre in Ingham, and many homes and businesses across Ingham are already eligible to upgrade now to nbn’s most reliable, resilient and fastest residential connection.
Kylie Lindsay, Head of nbn Local Queensland, said reliable and resilient communications were particularly important in the lead-up to, during and after the natural disasters the region faces.
“Queenslanders are familiar with preparing their homes, emergency kits and evacuation plans ahead of the wet season, but it is equally important to think about what you can do to stay connected to emergency information, essential services and loved ones.”
“Fibre offers the most reliable nbn connection and is helping our network to become more resilient to the effects of extreme weather. This means fewer faults, faster restoration times and more consistent connectivity in more places.”
“We know from experience that reliable connectivity is essential before, during and after severe weather. It helps people receive emergency warnings, access important information and services, check on family and friends, and keep local businesses operating.
“I encourage residents and businesses not to wait until a cyclone or flood is on the horizon. Preparing early could be invaluable to help families, businesses and the wider community stay informed and connected when conditions deteriorate.”
To check whether your address is eligible to upgrade to a more resilient full fibre connection, visit www.nbnco.com.au/checkregional
Hi Everyone,
Exciting news from the Life Publishing Group team this week – we’ve won this year’s Local Government Association of Queensland Journalism Award!
We’re particularly humbled by this achievement, especially given the competition with The Australian coming in second and the ABC third.
This state award recognises excellence in regional journalism, and our positive, community-focused, hyperlocal coverage across the group took out the top accolade.
I travelled to Cairns on Tuesday to accept the award on behalf of our team, and I would like to acknowledge all our journalists for the exceptional work they do every day across all the regions we serve.
A big round of applause goes to Hannah McNamara, Victoria Velton, Jacob Casha, Zach Houtenville and our Editorial Team Leader Suzanna McLoughlin.
As some of you may know, most of our journalists come to the regions as cadets, embarking on their first jobs in journalism. They are thrown into a new community and often become the only on-the-ground journalists covering local news.
They are then supported by our fantastic team of professionals, and together we produce the papers our communities read every week.
Every page is a team effort, from the advertising booked by our Sales Managers to the pages created by our designers, the production team bringing it all together and our journalists delivering the content.
Thank you to the whole team for everything you do and well done to each journalist for collectively producing a body of work of such a high standard that we received this top gong.
I would also like to mention the origins of this award, which are particularly meaningful.
The LGAQ established it in honour of ABC cameraman John Bean, journalist Paul Lockyer and helicopter pilot Gary Ticehurst, who tragically died in a crash while on assignment in 2011.
They were a well-liked and deeply respected crew who spent much of their time working in regional areas. Their loss sparked an outpouring of grief from regional leaders who understood the enormous contribution they made to ensuring regional Queensland was given a voice and its contribution to public life was recognised.
It is an honour to continue their legacy in our own small way, ensuring regional Queensland communities remain connected and have a strong voice through positive, local free newspapers every week.
The awards night was spectacular, with more than 500 Mayors, Councillors and local government staff in attendance and I was thrilled to meet up with five of the local Mayors from the regions we serve.
When I was called up on stage to accept the award on behalf of the team, it was a moment that made all our dedication to regional journalism feel worthwhile.
To my surprise, when I came off the stage, all our local Mayors came over to congratulate us.
I was greeted by Mayor Greg Williamson from Mackay, Mayor Ry Collins from the Whitsundays, Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort from the Burdekin and Mayor Ramon Jayo from Hinchinbrook.
I have to confess, I had tears in my eyes at that moment!
I later found out that Mayor Ramon Jayo had nominated us for the award and that every Mayor had received a phone call from the judging committee, with each vouching for the incredible work our team does every day in their regions.
Thank you to all the Mayors, including Mayor Teresa Millwood from Cassowary Coast, where we have recently expanded. It was a delight to share your table on the night!
And finally, thank you to our incredible team, our Publisher Bec Douthwaite, the LGAQ for this significant recognition, and our wonderful readers and local businesses who are part of the Life community.
Rach
Local electrician Adrian Cammeleri offered the RSL some guidance on how to use their brand new back up generator. Photo supplied
Cardwell RSL Sub Branch’s new back up generator is up and running!
The generator was secured through FRRR funding, and will give the sub branch peace of mind and a contingency plan should extreme weather cause any outages come storm season.
Electrician Adrian Cammeleri visited the branch this week to give RSL Members a tutorial on how to run the back up generator.
“The Cardwell RSL is extremely grateful for the generous support given by the Foundation for Rural Regional Renewal (FRRR),” said Cardwell RSL Sub Branch President Robert Lang.
“Without their grant funding this Gen Set compound & electrical connection would not be possible.”
FRRR works with local organisations and community groups to help address regional needs, recognising the importance of locally led projects in building stronger, more resilient communities. Its funding supports a range of initiatives, from community infrastructure to disaster preparedness.
Tully State High School was delighted to welcome 162 students from Ohori Junior High School in Fukuoka, Japan, for a memorable day of cultural exchange and friendship.
The visiting students spent the day getting to know our school community, sharing insights into their own school experiences, daily routines and interests. Tully SHS Year 8 students acted as buddies, proudly showing their Japanese visitors around the school and helping them feel welcome.
A highlight of the visit was a range of Indigenous cultural activities facilitated by the Girringun Rangers. Students had the opportunity to try spear and boomerang throwing, hand painting and beading, providing a valuable insight into Indigenous culture and traditions.
The day was filled with opportunities to learn from one another, celebrate cultural differences and build connections between the two school communities. A friendly game of dodgeball and Just Dance also brought plenty of fun and laughter!
Tully State High School extends a heartfelt thank you to all the students, teachers, staff and the Girringun Rangers who contributed to making the visit such a wonderful and memorable experience.
The visit was a fantastic opportunity to strengthen international connections, celebrate cultural diversity and create lasting memories for everyone involved.
Photo credit: Helen Cook
From copyright concerns to smarter booking systems, artificial intelligence is presenting both opportunities and challenges for Cassowary Coast businesses.
Members of the Cassowary Coast Businesswomen’s Network (CCBWN) explored the rapidly evolving technology at an informative evening with Cairns-based digital specialist Nicky Jurd at the Mt Tyson Hotel in Tully on Tuesday 13th October.
Under the theme Human vs AI, Nicky introduced participants to the growing range of artificial intelligence platforms, explaining how they differ, their practical applications and how dramatically their capabilities have improved in recent months.
With technology advancing at remarkable speed, keeping up with developments is becoming a challenge in itself. The presentation explored how businesses can harness AI to improve productivity, streamline everyday tasks and work more efficiently, while also considering the risks and responsibilities associated with its use.
Nicky, who established her digital business Precedence in 2000, has more than 25 years' experience helping businesses navigate technological change.
CCBWN President Kerry Chow said the evening reflected the network's commitment to supporting local business women through learning, networking and shared experiences.
"The Human vs AI event was exactly the kind of evening the Cassowary Coast Business Women's Network is here to create," she said.
"An opportunity to connect, learn, share ideas, support one another and explore a business topic that is becoming increasingly relevant to all of us.
"It was a terrific example of professional development that was practical, engaging and genuinely useful."
Beyond the presentations, the network provides valuable opportunities for local businesswomen to build connections, exchange experiences, learn from one another – and enjoy a fun night out.
Next month, CCBWN is supporting the ‘growHer Long Lunch’ event organised by the Tully Women in Ag group, which is an initiative focused on building awareness and understanding around wellbeing in our rural communities - Saturday 7th November at the Tully Country Club. Members and guests are welcome. Visit www.ccbwn.org.au for more information on this and future events.
The Cassowary Coast's 2026 Australia Day Award recipients, recognised for their outstanding contributions to the community. Photo source: CCRC
Every community has its quiet achievers – the volunteers, sporting champions, environmental advocates and community leaders who give their time and energy to make the Cassowary Coast a better place to live.
Now Cassowary Coast Regional Council is calling on residents to nominate those deserving of recognition in the 2027 Australia Day Awards.
This year's awards celebrated an inspiring range of local achievements, with Cardwell Coast Guard Commander Ken English named 2026 Citizen of the Year for his outstanding voluntary service.
Ken played a pivotal role in rebuilding the Cardwell Coast Guard flotilla into a fully operational emergency service, contributing thousands of volunteer hours to maintenance, marine rescues, training and fundraising.
“I believe this award really reflects Cardwell and the people of the Coast Guard, past and present,” Ken said.
Young Citizen of the Year Caleb Wodzislawski was recognised for his volunteer work in Innisfail, particularly with Riverfest, and his involvement in Council's Youth Advisory Committee.
Other recipients included Lifetime Contribution Award winner Margaret Dineen, Sportsperson of the Year Kodi Worth and the Cardwell RSL Sub Branch, recognised with the Community Group Award.
The Tully Mill 100 Celebration was named Community Event/Project of the Year, recognising the efforts of those who helped celebrate a century of local sugar industry history.
Mayor Teresa Millwood said the awards provided an opportunity to thank those making a difference.
“These awards are about recognising dedication, community spirit and service. They remind us of the extraordinary contributions being made across the Cassowary Coast and give us the chance to say thank you to the people and groups helping our region thrive,” Cr Millwood said.
The 2027 awards feature seven categories recognising community service, sporting achievement, environmental stewardship and outstanding local initiatives.
Council is encouraging residents to nominate, with just one to five short written responses required, depending on the category. No lengthy submissions or fancy writing are needed – simply explain why your nominee deserves recognition.
Nominations close at 5pm on Friday 27th November 2026, with the awards ceremony at Mission Beach Resort on Friday 22nd January 2027.
To nominate, visit cassowarycoast.smartygrants.com.au or contact Council on 1300 763 903.
Photos supplied
From morning teas and trivia to therapy dogs and plenty of laughter, seniors across the Cassowary Coast have been making the most of Queensland Seniors Month this October.
This year's theme, Connect and Celebrate, has been brought to life through a range of activities at libraries across the region, providing opportunities to catch up with old friends, make new ones and enjoy some light-hearted fun.
Celebrations in Cardwell, Mission Beach and Tully have brought plenty of smiles, with participants sharing their appreciation for the chance to get together.
"Lovely morning, everybody enjoyed themselves," was one happy response.
Another participant summed up the occasion: "Was a fun morning. Thank you. We did have lots of fun and laughter. Stan's jokes were a hoot."
And the celebrations aren't over yet!
Innisfail Library will host a special Seniors Month gathering this Wednesday 21st October, from 10am to noon.
The event begins with morning tea at 10am, followed by games and activities from 10.30am, including intergenerational interviews with Cassowary Coast youth, trivia, Name the Song and Name the Famous Australian Sports Star.
It's another chance to enjoy some friendly competition, share a few stories and celebrate the valuable connections between generations.
And while Seniors Month officially wraps up on 31st October, the opportunities to stay connected continue throughout the year, with local libraries offering regular activities including Scrabble, Mahjong, Craft & Laugh, Conversation Caféand Tech Help.
Volunteers removed over 100 kilograms of rubbish from Clump Point during two clean-ups last year Images supplied: Tangaroa Blue Foundation
A few hours of volunteering can make a big difference to our marine environment, and Cassowary Coast residents are being encouraged to roll up their sleeves for the Clump Point beach clean-up on Sunday 25th October.
Organised by the Tangaroa Blue Foundation through its Great Barrier Reef Clean-up program, the afternoon event will bring volunteers together to remove marine debris from the Clump Point headland and nearby historic fish traps.
Local coordinator Attie Willy, who has been organising clean-ups across the Cassowary Coast for around five years, says every piece of rubbish collected helps protect the region's precious coastal environment and marine life.
"It's not only an important traditional owners' site, but the southeasterly trade winds often put lots of marine debris onto the Clump Point headland," Attie explained.
With larger tides approaching and the turtle breeding season underway, removing marine debris is particularly important.
Last year, volunteers removed 110 kilograms of marine debris during two clean-ups at Clump Point and the Fish Traps. A further 76 kilograms was collected in March this year.
The upcoming event follows a successful clean-up at Kennedy Bay earlier this month, where volunteers removed an impressive 187 kilograms of rubbish, supported by the Girringun Land and Sea Rangers and Cassowary Coast Regional Council.
Importantly, the collected debris is weighed and identified, with information entered into the Australian Marine Debris Initiative database. This national monitoring program helps identify pollution sources and trends, contributing to long-term strategies to reduce marine debris.
THE DETAILS
Everyone is welcome to participate, with gloves and rubbish bags provided. Volunteers should wear sturdy enclosed shoes, bring sun protection, suitable weather gear and drinking water, preferably in a reusable bottle.
The clean-up runs from 2.00 pm to 4.30 pm on Sunday 25th October, meeting at the amenities block at the northern end of Porter Promenade, Mission Beach.
Register at atalanta@tangaroablue.org
Jacob Cassady and Kurt Harlow, represented here by Chamber President Mary Brown, took home top individual awards. Photo source: Mary Brown
Two Hinchinbrook tourism operators swept up top honours at the North Queensland Tourism and Events Awards in Townsville on Friday 16th October
Managing Director of Mungalla Aboriginal Tours Jacob Cassady won the Richard Power Award for Outstanding Contribution by an Individual, while Kurt Harlow of Hidden Valley Cabins and Tours received the Graham Jackson Young Achiever Award.
Hinchinbrook Visitor Information Centre team are also celebrating recognition as finalists in two categories.
Two Hinchinbrook tourism operators have been recognised for their contributions to the region’s tourism industry, taking home top honours at the North Queensland Tourism and Events Awards.
Managing Director of Mungalla Aboriginal Tours Jacob Cassady won the Richard Power Award for Outstanding Contribution by an Individual, while Kurt Harlow of Hidden Valley Cabins and Tours received the Graham Jackson Young Achiever Award.
Mungalla Aboriginal Tours are operated at Mungalla Station, approximately 12 kilometres east of Ingham, conducting tours and experiences that blend Nywaigi Aboriginal culture with pioneering history.
According to the company’s mission statement, the homestead is a resource owned by Nywaigi Traditional Owners for the purpose of fostering Aboriginal cultural values by building economic and cultural opportunities for future generations through the careful use of Country, inviting visitors to experience ancient lands through ancient hands.
“Indigenous-led tourism is an incredible way to create a genuine connection between visitors and Country,” Mr. Cassady recently told Townsville Enterprise.
"We’ve seen first-hand people don’t just want to see the landscape - they want to understand its history and hear its stories from the people who have cared for it for thousands of years.”
Hidden Valley Cabins & Tours is an eco-retreat venue which has been family owned and operated near the Paluma Range for over 35 years.
The team praised Tour Guide Kurt Harlow on his recent win for the company.
“For those who know Kurt, you know just how much heart, passion, knowledge and dedication he pours into everything he does,” a spokesperson shared.
“Kurt is so much more than a tour guide. His genuine love and respect for the natural world, his passion for conservation, sustainability and education, and his ability to share that knowledge with people from all walks of life is something truly special.
“But behind all of that is also a husband, father, friend and one of the driving forces behind our little family business.”
President of the Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Tourism Mary Brown attended the awards, congratulating both winners on their achievements.
“It was a privilege to be present to witness two of Hinchinbrook’s tourism operators announced as winners,” Ms Brown said.
She also acknowledged the Hinchinbrook Visitor Information Centre team, who were finalists in two categories.
“Wonderful to acknowledge the many talented and committed people who support and deliver the diverse tourism experiences into the Hinchinbrook Shire,” Ms Brown said.
The North Queensland Tourism and Events Awards recognise excellence across the region’s tourism industry, celebrating the people, places, organisations and events that go above and beyond to deliver outstanding visitor experiences throughout Townsville North Queensland.
One of the most common concerns I hear from residents across the Hinchinbrook Shire is the rising cost of insurance.
Whether it's homeowners, families, retirees, farmers or small business owners, more people are telling us that insurance is becoming increasingly difficult to afford. For some, it is no longer just a financial inconvenience. It is becoming a significant source of stress and uncertainty.
To better understand the challenges facing our community, Council recently undertook the Hinchinbrook Insurance Affordability and Availability Survey 2026. More than 300 residents took the time to share their experiences, providing valuable insight into the real impacts insurance costs are having across our region.
The findings paint a concerning picture.
More than three-quarters of respondents reported insurance premiums are unaffordable, while many also identified high excesses, limited insurer choice and concerns surrounding flood insurance as major issues. Many residents indicated they have reduced their level of cover, increased their excesses or are considering going without certain insurance products altogether to manage rising household costs.
The survey also highlighted widespread concern that insurance pricing does not always reflect the individual circumstances of a property. Many residents believe resilience measures such as raising homes, improving drainage, strengthening buildings and undertaking flood mitigation works should be better recognised when premiums are calculated.
Importantly, this survey was undertaken as part of Council's ongoing recovery and advocacy efforts following the February 2025 flooding event. As our community continues to rebuild and strengthen its resilience, access to affordable and appropriate insurance remains a critical issue.
Council recognises that affordable insurance is about more than protecting buildings. It is about supporting confidence, financial security and the long-term resilience of our communities.
On behalf of Council, I would like to sincerely thank everyone who took the time to complete the survey. The strong response from across the Shire demonstrates how important this issue is to our community. Your feedback has provided Council with valuable information that will strengthen our advocacy efforts and help ensure the experiences of Hinchinbrook residents are heard in discussions with governments, regulators and the insurance industry.
The findings of the Hinchinbrook Insurance Affordability and Availability Survey 2026 will be formally noted by Council at next week's Ordinary Meeting of Council and will help guide our ongoing advocacy with governments, industry stakeholders and insurance providers.
The message from our community is clear: regional residents want fairer insurance outcomes, greater transparency and pricing that recognises individual property risk and resilience measures.
Council will continue advocating strongly on behalf of our residents to ensure the voices of Hinchinbrook are heard and considered in future discussions around insurance affordability, availability and reform.
Teaching Principal Laura-Beth Martin outside Abergowrie State School. Photo supplied
Abergowrie State School Teaching Principal Laura-Beth Martin has been recognised for her outstanding contribution to education, receiving the Dr John Dwyer Excellent Leadership in Teaching and Learning Award at the 2026 Queensland College of Teachers (QCT) TEACHX Awards.
The Queensland-wide awards celebrate excellence across the teaching profession, recognising educators who make a meaningful difference to students, colleagues and their wider school communities.
This year, the QCT received 375 nominations across all categories, with 84 shortlisted candidates and 26 award recipients recognised for their achievements across Queensland.
For Laura-Beth, receiving the prestigious honour while leading a small rural school is a particularly meaningful achievement, reflecting her commitment to ensuring every child has access to quality learning opportunities, regardless of where they live.
“I feel incredibly honoured and humbled to receive this award. To be recognised alongside so many inspiring educators from across Queensland is something I never imagined,” Laura-Beth said.
“Being a Teaching Principal in a small rural school means wearing many hats, but it also provides the wonderful opportunity to really know every child, their family and their individual strengths.
“I have always believed that a child's postcode or the size of their school should never determine the opportunities available to them. Every child deserves to feel seen, valued and connected, and to have access to meaningful learning experiences that help them thrive.”
Beginning her career in rural North Queensland, Laura-Beth has built a strong culture of belonging at Abergowrie State School through meaningful relationships with students, families and the wider community.
Her leadership has extended beyond the classroom, with a commitment to reconciliation and cultural awareness strengthened through collaboration with Warrgamay Elders. This work contributed to Abergowrie State School receiving the 2024 Queensland Reconciliation Education Award.
She has also championed nature-based and play-focused learning initiatives, creating opportunities for students to explore, develop new skills and learn beyond traditional classroom settings.
The Dr John Dwyer Excellent Leadership in Teaching and Learning Award recognises educators who demonstrate exceptional leadership, empower colleagues, positively influence their school communitiesand make an outstanding contribution to the teaching profession.
Laura-Beth acknowledged that the recognition extended beyond her individual efforts, highlighting the collective work of the school community in supporting students and creating an environment where they can thrive.
“This award is not just about me. It reflects the dedication of our wonderful staff, the support of our families and the strong relationships we have built with our wider community,” she said.
“At Abergowrie State School, we often say ‘Small School, Big Heart’, and I think this award is a lovely reminder that exceptional educational leadership isn't determined by the size of a school, but by the difference we make in the lives of children.
“I am incredibly proud of our little school and what we continue to achieve together.”
The 2026 TEACHX Awards recognised educators from metropolitan and regional settings, including Mossman, Abergowrie, Cloncurry, Rockhampton and Toowoomba, highlighting the important work being undertaken in schools across Queensland.
Laura-Beth’s achievement will be celebrated with her students, colleagues and the broader Abergowrie community, alongside Hinchinbrook MP Wayde Chiesa. A date for the local celebration is yet to be confirmed.
Her recognition is a proud moment for Abergowrie State School and the wider Hinchinbrook community, demonstrating that the impact of strong educational leadership is not measured by the size of a school, but by the opportunities and impact created for its students.
Students preparing for the 2026 Maraka Street Parade. Photos supplied
Contributed with thanks by Gilroy Santa Maria College
As this year’s Ingham Maraka Festival bursts to life with the vibrant energy and rhythm of Rio Carnivale, students from Gilroy Santa Maria College are stepping out in a Walk of Gratitude dedicated to the true heartbeat of our community: our local service groups and sporting clubs.
Every weekend, match day, and late afternoon, these volunteer organisations and sports clubs quietly uplift Hinchinbrook. They mentor our youth, support our families, and fuel our unstoppable local spirit. They are the driving force that elevates Ingham, and they deserve nothing less than our entire town lining the streets in their honour.
Channelling the colourful celebration of Carnivale while carrying messages of deep appreciation, GSMC students will march to salute these unsung heroes who give so tirelessly without ever asking for recognition.
We invite every resident to crowd the footpaths, cheer with pride, and join the Carnivale celebration as we applaud the volunteers and clubs who make our region extraordinary. Come along to the MarakaFestival and let’s give our local champions the grand tribute they truly deserve!
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Our Lady of Lourdes Year 5 students enjoyed an unforgettable Leadership Camp at Echo Creek. Photos supplied: Our Lady of Lourdes
Contributed with thanks by Our Lady of Lourdes
Last week, our Year 5 students enjoyed an unforgettable Leadership Camp at Echo Creek, embracing adventure, challenging themselves and developing the skills they will need to become confident and capable leaders in 2027.
Our experience began with a visit to the Cardwell Historical Museum, where students explored the rich history of our local region. They learnt about significant cyclones, discovered how people communicated before modern technology and explored the fascinating world of Morse code. Students impressed us with their ability to recall and share interesting facts, bringing local history to life and deepening their understanding of our community.
Upon arrival at Echo Creek, the adventure continued with an action-packed program delivered by Wildside Adventures. From muddy obstacle courses and challenging climbs to balancing, abseiling and rock climbing, students were encouraged to step outside their comfort zones. Throughout each activity, they demonstrated courage, resilience and determination, supporting one another and celebrating each other's achievements.
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Teamwork was a key focus, particularly during the raft-building challenge. Students collaborated to design and construct rafts capable of carrying their entire team across the dam. The challenge tested their communication, creativity and problem-solving skills, highlighting the importance of listening, sharing ideas and working towards a common goal.
There were plenty of laughs and some creative designs along the way!
The fun continued after the day's activities, with an outdoor movie under the stars, card and board games, and entertaining rounds of charades. These relaxed moments provided wonderful opportunities to strengthen friendships, connect with peers and create lasting memories.
One of the most rewarding aspects of the camp was witnessing the growth in students' confidence and independence. Whether encouraging a friend, contributing ideas during a team challenge or demonstrating kindness towards others, our Year 5 students displayed many of the qualities of effective leaders.
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We extend a heartfelt thank you to our dedicated staff and supportive families for helping make this experience possible. We are especially grateful to Allan and the wonderful teams at Echo Creek and Wildside Adventures for their hospitality, encouragement and the outstanding opportunities provided to our students.
Filled with adventure, teamwork, laughter and personal growth, the camp was a valuable opportunity for students to discover their strengths and learn the importance of supporting others.
Our Year 5 students have returned with wonderful memories, stronger friendships and growing confidence. We look forward to seeing them put these skills into practice as they step into their leadership roles in 2027!
Students enjoyed their lessons in the pool. Photos supplied: Halifax State School
Contributed with thanks by Halifax State School
As the weather warms and the school year enters its final term, students at Halifax State School are diving into an exciting and valuable component of the Health and Physical Education (HPE) curriculum through the school's annual swimming program.
Swimming is a vital life skill for all Australian children, particularly in Queensland, where waterways, beaches, and pools are a significant part of everyday life. Throughout Term 4, students have been participating in structured swimming lessons designed to build water confidence, improve swimming techniques, and develop essential water safety knowledge.
The program caters to students of varying abilities, ensuring every child has the opportunity to learn and progress at their own level. From beginners gaining confidence in the water to more experienced swimmers refining their strokes, each lesson provides a supportive environment where students can challenge themselves and celebrate personal achievements.
Teachers have been pleased to see the enthusiasm and determination shown by students. Beyond physical skill development, swimming lessons encourage resilience, perseverance, and self-confidence. Many students have demonstrated significant growth as they overcome fears, master new techniques, and support their peers throughout the program.
The benefits of swimming extend well beyond the pool. Regular participation in aquatic activities promotes fitness, coordination, strength, and overall wellbeing. Just as importantly, students learn potentially life-saving water safety skills that can help them make safe decisions around aquatic environments.
Halifax State School values opportunities that provide meaningful, real-world learning experiences, and the Term 4 swimming program continues to be a highlight of the HPE curriculum. The success of the program would not be possible without the support of dedicated staff, swimming instructors, and families who help ensure students can participate and thrive.
As students continue making waves throughout the term, the school community is proud of their efforts and looks forward to seeing them build confidence and skills that will benefit them both in and out of the water for years to come.
Photos supplied Ingham State High School
Ingham State High School is proud to recognise the exceptional accomplishments of the following students, who have achieved a perfect score of 100% in all Internal Assessments this year.
This remarkable achievement reflects not only their diligence and determination but also their passion for learning and commitment to excellence.
Congratulations to Year 12 students:
Harry Flood who excelled in both Specialist Mathematics and Chemistry;
Nalini Schofield, Olivia Bishop and Keldon Fletcher who all achieved a perfect score in both Mathematical Methods and Chemistry; and
Lucas Fallea who attained full marks in Biology.
Behind every successful student is a strong team. We proudly acknowledge the expertise and dedication of our teachers, the encouragement and support of families, and the contribution of our wider school community in helping our students reach their potential.
At Ingham High, we believe in ‘𝗨𝗻𝗹𝗼𝗰𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗼𝗳 𝗘𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝗦𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁’, and the achievements of our Class of 2026 demonstrate what is possible when students are supported to aim high and believe in themselves.
Contributed with thanks by Ingham State High School
Photo credit: Victoria Velton
By Victoria Velton
Welcome to the Cutting The Cane, a column where we have a chat with those supporting the backbone of the local economy: the farmers behind the sugar. This week Sam Torrisi, the current Director of CANEGROWERS Herbert River, who has been growing cane in the region for over 40 years, answered our questions with his multi-farm operation in mind. His paddocks span Upper Stone, Fairford, Cordelia and Sunnybank Sub-Districts.
What stage are your paddocks at now?
With only around 4 weeks left of the crushing season, 2 of our 4 farms are cut out with around 10% of our total crop left to be harvested. The recent rain in the Lower Herbert and Central farms has allowed young ratoons and plant cane to grow nicely. But the Upper Stone farm, which missed out on those heavier showers, is looking for a drink. Sugar content has been very good this year, the best since 2019, but overall yield is down again.
This is very disappointing, with the Herbert district recording its fourth consecutive year crushing below four million tonnes of cane, despite having the capacity to crush nearly five million tonnes. Maximising the value of our crops must be a priority, and starting the season too early or finishing too late is not the answer. The focus must be on harvesting the majority of the crop between early July and late October.
Consistently returning crushing rates to more than 200,000 tonnes per week is also essential, and this is an achievable target.
What varieties of cane are you growing?
I try and spread the risk by planting a couple of varieties. Depending on soil type, the main varieties I’ve planted are Q253, Q200, Q208, SRA 28, SRA 6 and SRA 26. Unfortunately, SRA 26 which was showing promise, is now underperforming in older ratoons in heavy clay soils.
This year I am trying some of the newer varieties such as SRA 40 and SRA 43 to see how they will perform, but I also planted the older varieties like Q200 and Q253, which I’ve been able to still rely on. I also tried some tissue culture seedlings of SRA 32 and hope this variety will perform well.
What challenges have faced your crops this year?
The Upper Stone farm is by far the driest of all the farms, not only dry ground conditions but cane grub damage this year has affected a lot of plants causing them to die out and not ratoon there. SRA is currently doing trials to see how effective the current insecticides are performing and what possible new insecticides could be effective against controlling cane grubs.
With the wet season looming, how are you preparing to face the seasonal change?
With the possible wet season not far off, as a grower, I am very mindful of the potential flooding that can occur. If I know for certain that a ploughed-out block will be subjected to high waterflow across it, I will take the option to spray the ratoons out leaving it uncultivated with a trash blanket.
This is to preserve the topsoil from washing away, which was evident in the 2025 floods where many cultivated fallows blocks were badly eroded. Once that topsoil is gone it’s gone forever.
All the Senior Leaders of the school with Principal Johanna Smith Photos supplied: GSMC
Contributed with thanks by Gilroy Santa Maria College
Term 4 has started with much momentum and excitement at Gilroy Santa Maria College, especially for Year 11 and 12 students.
The Year 12 cohort has been truly shining with their academic achievements. Queensland Curriculum Authority (QCAA) have confirmed that multiple students have achieved 100% in their recent internal assessments. This success is the result of countless hours of effort by the students and is shaping bright futures for 2027 and beyond.
These students are currently in their final week of classes, with Year 12 external exam block commencing from Monday 26th October.
While this chapter is coming to a close, another is just beginning for the current Year 11 GSMC students. Recently, students with aspirations of leading the College in 2027 experienced the process of applying for a leadership position. From their written application, through to speaking in front of the entire student body and sitting through interviews with Senior Leaders of the school, the students demonstrated courage, passion and resilience.
College Captains: Joel Accornero, Ciera Fichera and Summer Christopher.
Pillar Captains: Daniel Winstone, Chloe Bradd and Kaitlyn Rapista.
House Captains:
Rice - Sofia Inunciaga and Ben Poggio.
O’Meara - Molly-Rose Gaggiano and Liam Swarbrick.
McAuley - Allie Gaggiano and Maximo Lenzo.
The 2027 elected leaders will commence their duties across Term 4, with the current Student Leaders completing their duties at the GSMC Awards Night this Thursday.
Introducing Speckles, a delightful cat whose unique speckled coat is as charming as her personality! This young feline mother was discovered on the goldfields, living under a container, and has now stepped into town life to find a new, loving place she can truly call home. With her tabby stripes interspersed with flecks of gold, it's as though her fur is sprinkled with tiny treasures, adding to her distinct and captivating appearance.
Speckles is not just a pretty face; she has a friendly disposition that suggests she was once a cherished companion. While Speckles is yet to be introduced to other animals, her amiable nature indicates she could adjust well, given a gentle and patient introduction.
With Speckles in your life, you'll gain not just a pet, but a little piece of gold. She is ready to fill a special place in your heart and home with her warmth and grace. If you're ready to embrace the joys of sharing your life with this endearing and unique companion, she could be the perfect addition to your home.
Included in adoption fee of $225 DESEXED, MICRO-CHIPPED, up to date VACCINATIONS, FLEA/TICK/INTESTINAL WORM treated. Enquire today at angelpawsinc.com.au/pets-for-adoption/cats/
Sex: Female
Breed: Domestic Short Hair
Colour: Brown-Orange Tabby
DOB: 01/09/2025
Cat Friendly: Yes
Dog Friendly: Unsure
Kid Friendly: Unsure
Nicole Chiesa, one of the two recipients of the 2026 Tim Fischer Fellowship. Photo supplied
North Queensland agricultural business owner and Link 2 Country co-founder Nicole Chiesa has been named one of the 2026 Tim Fischer Fellows, receiving access to a national CEF support network to bring ambitious education projects with the potential to create lasting change across rural and regional Australia to life.
Established in honour of former Deputy Prime Minister and CEF founding Patron Tim Fischer AC, the Fellowship backs people with the vision, passion and practical ideas to create meaningful opportunities for rural and regional communities.
CEF CEO Wendy Mason said the decision reflected both the strength of this year’s applications and the enormous potential of Nicole's project.
“The Tim Fischer Fellowship was created to back people who understand regional Australia, who see an opportunity to make a difference and have the determination to turn an idea into something practical,” Ms Mason said.
This year the panel was presented with two exceptional projects addressing very different, but equally important, challenges facing regional communities. Rather than choose between them, they invested in both.
“Nicole and Erin [the other recipient] share the qualities this Fellowship is designed to support — strong connections to rural and regional communities, a genuine commitment to education and a clear vision for creating change that can extend well beyond the life of the Fellowship.”
Nicole Chiesa, from Ingham, will use her Fellowship to expand the Agri Life Skills Program developed through social enterprise Link 2 Country, creating a repeatable model that can be delivered through agricultural shows, field days, careers expos and community events across rural and regional Australia.
Drawing on a career with experience across cattle stations, agricultural education, rural merchandise and her family’s sugarcane harvesting business, Nicole has seen first-hand the difficulties regional businesses can face attracting the next generation of workers.
The Agri Life Skills Program gives young people hands-on exposure to agriculture and other regional industries while connecting them directly with employers, education providers and training pathways. More than 1,000 young people have already participated in Link 2 Country initiatives, developing practical and employability skills while discovering careers they may otherwise never have considered.
Nicole will use the Fellowship to develop a digital platform supporting school registrations, compliance, resources and communication, together with a repeatable program model that communities can adapt to their own industries, workforce needs and opportunities.
“For me, this is about giving young people the chance to have a go, discover what interests them and meet the people who can help open doors for their future,” Ms Chiesa said.
“There are incredible careers and opportunities in rural and regional Australia, but young people need the chance to see and experience them. By bringing education, industry and community together, we can help young people make informed choices about their future while building stronger, more connected regional communities.”
CEF Chair Nick Burton Taylor said both projects reflected Tim Fischer’s belief in the transformative power of education and opportunity for people living outside Australia’s major cities.
“Tim understood that where you live should never determine the opportunities available to you,” Mr Burton Taylor said.
Tim Fischer’s wife Judy Brewer said she believed her late husband would have been immensely proud to see the Fellowship supporting two projects with such strong connections to regional people and communities.
“Tim was passionate about regional Australia and particularly about giving people, wherever they live, the education, confidence and opportunities they needed to build their futures,” Ms Brewer said.
“He believed strongly in people who were prepared to have a go and turn good ideas into practical action."
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After recently attending the locally initiated Spotlight on Seafood opening, congratulations to the organisers, I was reminded of the increasing pressures facing two industries fundamental to our region: fishing and agriculture.
Sensible regulation is necessary. Our farmers and professional fishers understand the importance of protecting the environment because their livelihoods depend on healthy land and waterways. But there must be balance.
Commercial fishers now face the phase-out of inshore net fishing by mid-2027, affecting traditional methods used to catch species including barramundi and king salmon. After decades of adapting to changing regulations, we must ask whether the cumulative impact is threatening the viability of local professional fishing.
Do we want to become increasingly reliant on seafood sourced from elsewhere while reducing the ability of generational local fishers to supply fresh wild-caught seafood?
Sugarcane farmers are facing similar challenges. Regulatory decisions have removed or restricted important agricultural chemicals, including chlorpyrifos, known as Suscon, to control the cane grubs, whose immediate effects we are seeing now, with cane grub damage reducing crop yield and crop cycles. Whilst paraquat use in sugarcane to control certain invasive weeds is also being phased out under new regulatory arrangements.
Health and environmental protection are important, but so too are food production, regional employment and viable family businesses.
The issue is not whether we should have regulation. The issue is whether we have achieved the right balance between environmental protection and maintaining sustainable, productive local industries.
Once professional fishers, farmers, infrastructure and generations of knowledge disappear, they will be difficult to replace.
Our fishing and agricultural industries provide food, employment and economic activity while forming an important part of the identity of regional communities.
We must ensure regulation supports responsible primary production rather than making it increasingly difficult to continue.
Our primary industries helped build regional Australia and we must make sure they remain part of its future. We should protect our environment, but we must also protect the responsible primary producers who feed us and sustain regional Australia.
Until next time Hinchinbrook residents, take care, stay safe and be kind.
Photo credit: Victoria Velton
Kaiti-Rae Beatts | 24
Service Club Sponsor: Apex Club of Herbert River
Hobbies & Interests
Kaiti-Rae loves photography, capturing Hinchinbrook’s landscapes, wildlife and people, as well as spending time outdoors with her dogs. At home, she enjoys cooking for loved ones, crocheting gifts and writing her fantasy adventure novel. She is passionate about supporting her community, serving as Youth Co-Ordinator for the Purple Bucket Foundation and helping organise local fundraisers, including Ronald McDonald McHappy Day. She is also an active member of the Hinchinbrook Agricultural Show Committee.
Life Goals
Kaiti-Rae hopes to publish her fantasy novel and see it available in local shops or the community library. As a young homeowner, she also dreams of growing her family, continuing to support local eventsand one day organising her own community events in Hinchinbrook.
Paige Williamson | 23
Service Club Sponsor: Lions Club of Ingham
Hobbies & Interests
Paige enjoys photography, camping and heading out on new adventures. Whether she is exploring the outdoors or capturing special moments behind the camera, she loves making memories along the way. Spending quality time with her family is also important to her, and she enjoys sharing life's experiences with the people closest to her.
Life Goals
Paige dreams of travelling the world, discovering new places and experiencing different cultures. She hopes to explore as much of the world as possible, embracing new adventures and making lasting memories along the way.
Janae Pearce | 20
Service Club Sponsor: Lions Club of Lower Herbert Halifax
Hobbies & Interests
Janae has a passion for musical theatre, sport and content creation. She enjoys playing touch football and netball, while her interest in Indigenous studies reflects her commitment to learning more about culture, identity and community. Janae is enthusiastic about developing her creative talents and expanding her knowledge both on and off the stage.
Life Goals
Janae hopes to complete university, strengthen and support local Indigenous communities, and continue developing her skills and knowledge in musical theatre. She also dreams of travelling, exploring new places and broadening her experiences along the way.
Brianna Lamari | 24
Service Club Sponsor: Rotary Club of Hinchinbrook
Hobbies & Interests
Brianna enjoys keeping active through squash and has achieved her second-degree black belt in taekwondo. A passionate football fan, she also loves spending time with family and friends. Whether she is pursuing her sporting interests or enjoying time with loved ones, Brianna values staying connected to the people and activities she enjoys.
Life Goals
Brianna hopes to put down roots in Hinchinbrook, own her own home with a large backyard and raise a family in the community she loves. She also dreams of sharing her home with a few adopted animals, creating a happy and welcoming place for her family to grow.
Hinchinbrook Cup Races 2025, Fashions in the Fields Classic Lady of the Track Winner & Runner-up. Photo credit: Donna Marbelli
The race that brings the region together is back, with the Herbert River Jockey Club preparing for a day of country racing, trackside fashion and live music when the NQIB Country Cups Challenge Qualifier and Hinchinbrook Cup Race Day returns on Saturday, 14th November 2026.
With five local races on the card, punters can enjoy a full day trackside before the celebrations continue into the evening with local band SuperSweet taking to the stage from 6pm.
Gates at the Herbert River Jockey Club, 67-69 Marina Parade, Ingham, will open at 11am, with local and southern bookmakers, Sky Racing and the ever-popular Fashions on the Field adding to the race day atmosphere.
This year's Fashions on the Field, will embrace the theme Country Glamour, inviting racegoers to put their own spin on trackside style.
Categories include Contemporary Lady of the Track, Classic Lady of the Track, Best Dressed Man of the Track, Millinery, Spotter's Choice and Kids categories.
With prizes supported by local and surrounding businesses, the competition offers racegoers an opportunity to showcase their personal style while adding a splash of glamour to the day's festivities. Judging takes place between races, giving spectators the chance to watch the fashion proceedings trackside.
General admission is $15 per person, with tickets available online in advance or at the gate on race day. Tables seating 10 people can be reserved online for $100 per table.
Food will be available from the race day canteen, operated by Marian and Piera Catering as patrons are reminded that eskies, glass, BYO alcohol, containers of liquid, tables and chairs are not permitted through the gate.
For tickets and table bookings scan the QR code below, and for further information, visit www.hrjc.com.au
Representatives from local services and providers at the disaster preparedness display, including Casie Scott, Jane Carne, Councillor Donna Marbelli, Josie Pickering and Dan Cordner Photo credit: Sherie Hensler-Adams
Hinchinbrook residents had the opportunity to speak directly with local emergency services and telecommunications providers at a disaster preparedness pop-up display held at the Woolworths Complex in Ingham on Wednesday 14th October.
Hosted by the Hinchinbrook Local Disaster Management Group, the event aimed to help residents prepare for the upcoming wet season by providing practical advice, answering questions and highlighting the importance of being ready for cyclones, floods and severe storms.
Representatives from the State Emergency Service (SES) Halifax and Ingham Groups, Queensland Police Service, Hinchinbrook Shire Council, Telstra and NBN Australia were on hand throughout the day to share information and discuss simple steps households can take to improve their preparedness.
Topics included preparing emergency kits, maintaining adequate food and drinking water supplies, planning for power outages, ensuring access to essential medications and developing a household emergency plan.
With the 2025 February weather event still a fresh memory, residents were also encouraged to consider whether their households could remain self-sufficient for seven to 10 days if a similar severe weather cut road access and prevented essential supplies from reaching the region.
Knowing where to find important documents, emergency contacts and essential medications was also highlighted as an important part of preparing for an emergency.
With the wet season approaching, the display provided an opportunity for community members to seek advice directly from local services and better understand the resources available to help protect themselves, their families, pets and properties.
Residents can access local disaster warnings, updates and preparedness information through the Hinchinbrook Disaster Information website at disaster.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au
Jane from the Hinchinbrook Local Disaster Management Group, Jenna from Queensland Health, Chloe from Australian Red Cross and members of the Ingham Lions Club worked together to put on a BBQ at Anzac Memorial Park. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
A sausage sizzle, a cool drink and a friendly conversation brought locals together at Anzac Memorial Park as the Australian Red Cross teamed up with the Hinchinbrook Local Disaster Management Group, Queensland Health and the Ingham Lions Club to promote wet season preparedness, mental health support and community connection, particularly for Ingham’s most vulnerable residents.
Held on Tuesday 13th October, the free community event aimed to help residents, particularly those experiencing housing instability, prepare for the months ahead. The event provided practical advice, answered questions and highlighted the importance of being ready for cyclones, floods and severe storms, especially for people who may have limited access to resources or support.
Representatives from the Australian Red Cross and Queensland Health also set up information tables, sharing useful resources and goodie bags while offering advice.
The event demonstrated the value of community support in its simplest form.
Sometimes, looking after one another starts with a snag in the park.
It is time to get ready people as we start to enter our high risk weather season, our well regarded wet season.
The key to getting ready revolves around three key elements. Know the risk that you may face. Make a plan on how you will deal with those risks and then make preparations to fit your plan including getting an emergency kit together.
There is a lot of information available both in digital format or hard copy if you need assistance with knowing your risks or how to prepare. Hard copy information is available at Council’s main office on Lannercost Street, and digitally you can find information on Council's website, Disaster Support & Preparedness page www.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au/Community-and-Events/Disaster-Support-Preparedness
A Get Ready Queensland stall will be held at the Woolworths complex, 29 Ann Street, Ingham, on Wednesday 14th October between 8.30am and 2.30pm. The display is being hosted by our Hinchinbrook Local Disaster Management Group and will bring together representatives from Council, SES, Queensland Police and NBN. It will be a great opportunity to learn more about disaster preparedness, ask questions and access practical information ahead of the upcoming wet and cyclone season.
So it will be great to see you there.
And talking about Telstra, are you aware of the new Temporary Disaster Roaming (TDR) capability. If your mobile network is affected during an extreme weather event, such as a bushfire, flood or cyclone, your phone may be able to connect to another participating carrier's mobile network, where available, to help you make essential calls and texts. If Telstra is the only network operating in the affected area, Optus and TPG customers may also be able to connect through Telstra network where safe to do so. This new capability is already online and ready in time for this disaster season. It’s designed to help customers stay connected, with access to essential calls, texts and basic data where possible and there is no extra cost.
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