Former students, teachers, staff, P&C members, tuckshop ladies, gymkhana workers and anyone who has shared a connection with Trebonne State School are invited to come together for an afternoon of reminiscing and catching up.

The gathering began as a get-together for former P&C and auxiliary members, including those who helped raise money for the school through making peach blossoms, but has grown to welcome anyone who has had a relationship with the school over the years.

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Families and friends are also warmly invited to attend.

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Anyone who would like to bring along a plate to share encouraged to do so. For further information, and to RSVP please contact Rhonda Skinner at 04 188 0871

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WHAT: Trebonne State School Community Get-Together
WHEN: 2:00pm, Saturday, 29th August 2026
WHERE: Trebonne State School

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Linda McClelland, Wayde Chiesa MP, Chantelle Previtera and Alexandria Pitt, the Homelessness support team Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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By Victoria Velton

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A steady stream of locals made their way through The HUB in Ingham on August 6th as 16 organisations came together for a Homelessness Expo aimed at connecting people with the services and support available in the community.

Hosted by the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre, the expo brought together organisations including Services Australia, the Department of Housing, selectability, Queensland Police and a range of advocacy and disability support services.

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A free barbecue provided an opportunity for visitors to sit down, grab a sausage or cupcake made by the men's group, and speak with service providers in a relaxed environment.

Member for Hinchinbrook MP Wayde Chiesa said the event was an important opportunity to make sure people knew where they could turn for help.

“This is really important to make sure people are aware of the services that are available,” he said.

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“They’ve done a wonderful job bringing people together and the services together, so people can explore in an open environment, and seek the services they need.”

Mr. Chiesa said the expo had seen a steady flow of people throughout the day and praised the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre for bringing the various organisations together.

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“It’s credit to the organisation, the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre, for actually organising something like this and bringing organisations like selectability, the police, and housing help. These sorts of events bring people together to get the support and services they need,” he said.

For Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre CEO Linda McClelland, the expo was about taking the conversation around homelessness into the wider community while making practical assistance more accessible.

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“The concept is that we’re wanting to get out to the community as much as possible that there is a homelessness crisis right throughout Australia,” she said.

Linda said the event also aimed to show the community how they could support people experiencing homelessness while connecting those people with services that could assist them through their circumstances.

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One of the practical challenges facing people without a fixed address is maintaining access to government services. Services Australia was available at the expo to assist people with Centrelink-related issues, while the Department of Housing helped attendees understand the process of getting onto the social housing waiting list.

“That’s one of the issues for homeless people, is that they do find it difficult having no fixed address to maintain their Centrelink payments,” Linda said.

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The Department of Housing was also helping people establish their names on the housing wait list, giving them the opportunity to be considered when suitable accommodation becomes available.

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Other organisations provided advocacy and disability support, while police were also present given their role in supporting and keeping safe people experiencing homelessness in the community.

Linda encouraged anyone who missed the expo but needs assistance to visit The HUB in Ingham.

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“Come to the HUB and ask for one of our workers, and we’ll support as best we can,” she said.

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The team can then help connect people with the appropriate services and support available locally.

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Among the services attending was the Disaster Recovery Team from Queensland Health, which is continuing to support people affected by last year’s natural disaster.

Jenna Noy said the timing of the service was deliberate, as the effects of a disaster can continue long after the initial response and funding has wound down.

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“It’s quite a while after the disaster, but that’s quite purposeful because the year after the disaster happens, a lot of funding goes, but that doesn’t mean people aren’t still struggling,” she said.

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The team provides short-term mental health support for people across the lifespan who may still be struggling to return to their normal lives following the flood.

Jenna said the impacts can present in a range of ways, including relationship difficulties, changes in substance use, low mood or heightened stress responses when rain occurs.

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Homelessness or housing instability can also become an additional source of stress for people who have not been able to return to their homes following a disaster.

The team attended the expo to ensure people knew the service remained available and could access support if needed.

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Also attending was the Wellways team, providing two programs designed to support people following a suicidal crisis.

Sandra Wilson explained that the Universal Aftercare program supports people aged 15 and over who have recently experienced a suicide attempt or suicidal crisis. In the Townsville region, the service is accessed through referral from the Townsville Hospital and Health Service.

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The program provides approximately 12 weeks of free, non-clinical psychosocial support.

“We can link them in with Centrelink, job network providers, mental health professionals,” Wilson said.

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The team can also assist people navigating the National Disability Insurance Scheme, including connecting them with providers such as Feros Care.

Wellways describes Universal Aftercare as a service that can help people adjust after leaving hospital, rebuild relationships, develop a safety plan and connect with housing, income, family, employment and other community supports.

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Alongside Universal Aftercare is Ways Forward, a free, peer-led service for people aged 18 and over who are caring for someone at risk of suicide.

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Sandra said the program is designed for people with lived experience who are supporting somebody who has been through, or is currently going through, a suicidal crisis.

Unlike Universal Aftercare, Ways Forward is specifically focused on carers, family members and other people supporting someone at risk of suicide. The service provides one-on-one peer support, connection groups, education and referrals to additional services.

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“Our program’s for 12 months. It’s for free,” Sandra said.

She said people can self-refer to Ways Forward, without needing to go through a hospital.

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The Wellways team services a broad area, with Sandra describing its coverage as extending from Cardwell down to Home Hill, across to Palm Island and as far west as Richmond.

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The programs also cater to different age groups, with Universal Aftercare supporting people aged 15 and over, while Ways Forward is available to carers aged 18 and over.

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Shane Pennisi speaking about the Tully Nests at the C-Files Forum, at the Australian UFO Festival in Cardwell, 2026. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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By Victoria Velton

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For decades, Shane Pennisi has carried the story of the strange formations found on his family’s property at Euramo. This year’s Australian UFO Festival marked the final time he would share that story from the stage.

Speaking at the C-Files Forum, Shane presented his experiences of the Tully Nests phenomenon, which has remained connected to his family and their farm for generations.

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He described the presentation as his “first and last hurrah,” with the family property now set to be sold and his connection to the farm coming to an end.

“That’s going to be it, because once the farm is sold, I’ll be moving away from here, and that’ll be it for any family attachment to the farm,” Shane said.

The story began with Shane’s father, George, who was the first to find circular formations of flattened reeds in the farm’s lagoons. George would regularly check the lagoons for the markings, and Shane continued the practice, eventually documenting and investigating the formations himself.  

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They came to suspect the formations to be a possible sign of extraterrestrial life; landing sites for circular crafts unlike any in known use by humans.  

“I stopped counting, but there were over 40, at least over 40,” Shane said.

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The family entered some of the larger formations and collected soil and water samples for testing. At the time, radioactive testing produced no significant results, while other testing also failed to identify chemicals or other obvious explanations for what had occurred.

One observation, however, stayed with Shane.

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“There was an incident where the grass reeds reshot because of moisture, when they were supposed to be dead,” he said.

The surrounding environment appeared largely unaffected by the formations. Wildlife and birdlife continued as normal, while the trees and vegetation did not show the sort of damage Shane might have expected from an unexplained event.

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It is one of the reasons he remains fascinated by the possibility that whatever created the formations may have understood the environment in ways humans do not.

“I reckon they could teach us a thing or two about environment and protecting it, and living with it,” he said.

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Shane believes the location of the farm could also be significant. He recalled research suggesting the property sits along a magnetic grid line, with other locations above and below it also falling along the same alignment.

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The idea, he suggested, was that such lines could potentially be used to assist with a craft’s movement, take-off or landing. But despite his decades of involvement with the phenomenon, Shane has never claimed to know exactly what created the formations.

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“I can prove nothing, but I’m just telling you what I saw and what I’ve experienced,” he said.

While UFO stories often feature fear, abduction and hostility, Shane’s own experience has been far less dramatic. His encounters just left him with questions.

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“I just would like to know what they’re like, how they do it,” he said, musing on what he’d do if he ever had the chance to meet the suspected extraterrestrials.  

Shane wonders whether an advanced civilisation might have something to teach humanity. He believes that if we did have visitors to the planet, they would be technologically and intellectually far ahead of humans; so perhaps they would have solutions to problems that continue to plague Earth.

That question became one of the most personal reflections of Shane’s presentation.  

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“Are they advanced with their minds? You know, the way they live with each other?” he wondered.

“I do believe Stan Sears was onto something when he said they (the extraterrestrial visitors) were checking out and seeing how we’re treating the planet,” Shane said.

“And I do believe we’re failing very dismally.”

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After decades of looking into the Tully Nests, Shane’s final presentation was about more than investigating the strange markings in a North Queensland lagoon.  

It asked what might exist beyond Earth, what those beings might know, and whether humanity would be ready to listen. For Shane, the answer is yes.

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“I think the world is ready for new neighbours,” he said.

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“We’re ready to find out what’s beyond the stars.”

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Hinchinbrook Shire Council is investing in the success of local businesses through a free Tendering Workshop designed to help suppliers better understand Council procurement processes, strengthen tender submissions, and build confidence when pursuing contracting opportunities.

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The workshop has been developed in response to common challenges identified through recent tender processes and aims to support businesses in navigating procurement requirements, from submitting a tender through to delivering on contractual obligations once a contract is awarded.

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Representatives from the Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning will also deliver a presentation, providing valuable insights and practical resources to help businesses become more competitive when pursuing procurement opportunities.

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Participants will learn about the common reasons tender submissions fail before reaching assessment, and how tenders are evaluated, including factors beyond price. Practical tips to improve compliance and strengthen submissions, and resources and tools available to support businesses, alongside the contractual obligations and expectations following contract award.

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Chief Executive Officer Mary-Anne Uren said Council wants to see local businesses well positioned to compete for opportunities and contribute to the long-term success.

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"Local businesses are the backbone of our community, and we want to support them to put their best foot forward when tendering for Council work," Ms Uren said.

"This workshop is about more than winning contracts. It's about building capability, improving understanding of procurement requirements and ensuring businesses are equipped to meet the contractual and legislative obligations that come with delivering projects and service. Legislative compliance is not optional, and tenderers must meet these requirements to be considered a compliant tenderer.

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"By strengthening the knowledge and skills of our local suppliers, we're helping create a stronger, more resilient business community that can compete confidently for opportunities both within the Shire and beyond. When our local businesses succeed, our whole community benefits."

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The workshop will be held from 5.00pm to 7.00pm on Monday, 17 August 2026, in the Hinchinbrook Shire Council Chambers, Ingham.

Businesses interested in tendering for Council work are encouraged to attend this valuable upskilling opportunity and register. Places are limited, and early registration is encouraged for catering purposes.

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Contributed with thanks by the Hinchinbrook Shire Council

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Register on Hinchinbrook Tickets:

https://tickets.hinchinbrooktickets.com.au/outlet/event/48c87048-abe8-4b33-a26d-deaea2ed4bd6?utm_source=Localtix&utm_medium=Website  

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An afternoon of heartwarming community spirit will grace Abbott Street’s Mercy Hall on Sunday 30th August when Hinchinbrook’s Catholic Women’s Group presents a vibrant Springtime Afternoon Tea all in support of Ingham Meals on Wheels.

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Catholic Women’s Group’s Jeanette Cockburn said selecting Ingham Meals on Wheels as the beneficiary of this August’s Afternoon Tea was an easy decision, and she hopes the community will rally behind the group’s efforts to support one of the region’s most celebrated organisations.

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“When we host an Afternoon Tea, we support local groups in our district, and this time, we choose Ingham Meals on Wheels,” she said.

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Comprised of several selfless volunteers, Ingham Meals on Wheels has been a treasured community service group since 1983, providing meals and connection to vulnerable members of the local community.

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“We all know that they [Ingham Meals on Wheels] do a great job in our community, and there are a lot of people in the parish who use their services, and this Afternoon Tea will support them and the work they do.”

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Commencing from 2pm, the afternoon will entail a cent sale, several raffles, and, to add a touch of excitement, a special Lucky Door Fashion Parade by Bossi Boots! In previous fundraisers, up to a hundred attendees have filled the hall, and Ms Cockburn hopes to see another wonderful turnout for this month’s event.

“It’s really just a light-hearted afternoon tea for people to get together with friends to have a social outing where everyone can enjoy a few things like a fashion show, maybe a bit of singing, and to just have a nice afternoon tea together all to help raise funds for a cause,” said Ms Cockburn.

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Attendees will be seated in tables of 12, and those interested in coming along are encouraged to purchase tickets from St Patrick’s Parish Office, located at 18 Abbott Street, Ingham or call 07 4776 2600 for more information.

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What: Catholic Women’s Group Springtime Afternoon Tea

When: 2pm, Sunday 30th August

Where: Mercy Hall, Abbott Street, Ingham

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By Sian Bantock  

Ross Mangano Solicitors is one of the region’s leading firms delivering expert legal services across Queensland with a strong focus on the Cassowary Coast.  

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For more than 30 years, RMS has provided a comprehensive range of services including property matters; conveyancing, leasing and commercial matters. Other areas include agribusiness, wills, enduring power of attorney documents and estate administration, family law and court matters.  

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The firm acts on behalf of individuals, small businesses, property investors, corporate entities and larger local organisations.  

Leah Mangano is a Principle solicitor and Notary Public, recognised as a public official who is qualified to witness legal and official documents

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While RMS’ primary focus is delivery high-quality legal services, the firm is also a proud supported of local businesses and community organisations.

Leah has contributed extensively to the region through her professional work and board as-well as her involvement on board and committees such as Tigers Leagues club, Cassowary Coast Business Women’s Network and is a life member of the Tully Nursing Home.  

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This year marks Leah’s 20 years since she was admitted as a Legal practitioner in Queensland; an extraordinary milestone.  

RMS, actively supports initiatives and events across the Cassowary Coast - from Tully, Mission Beach, El Arish and Cardwell. At Ross Mangano Solicitors they also believe in investing in the next generation so they created the RMS Legal Studies Award which is presented to the highest achieving Year 12 legal Studies student at Tully State High School.  

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For more information about their services, visit rossmanganosolicitors.com.au or contact the team contact them on: 07 4068 3177.  

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Residents and businesses across the Cassowary Coast are invited to visit the nbn Local information stall to learn more about the latest upgrades available across the region and how to get the most from their internet connection.

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Thousands of homes and businesses across the Cassowary Coast are now benefiting from significant upgrades to the nbn network, providing more opportunities to connect, work, learn and do business online. These local upgrades include full fibre availability to more than 9,200 premises across communities including Belvedere, Bingil Bay, Cardwell, Flying Fish Point, Innisfail, Mission Beach, South Mission Beach, Tully, Wangan, Wongaling Beach and many others. 

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For eligible customers currently connected via older copper technologies, upgrading to full fibre can unlock access to higher-speed plans and deliver a range of benefits including smoother video calls, enhanced streaming, faster downloads, quicker response times for gaming and the ability to connect more devices simultaneously, such as smart TVs, security systems and smart home technology. 

Regional communities are also benefiting from major improvements to the nbn Fixed Wireless network through the Fixed Wireless Upgrade Program. Backed by a $750 million investment from the Australian Government and NBN Co, the upgrade has delivered increased capacity, faster speeds and improved coverage for regional Australia. Eligible Fixed Wireless customers can now access higher-speed wholesale plans, with Fixed Wireless Home Fast available across most of the upgraded footprint. 

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With North Queensland's wet season and severe weather events always a consideration, reliable connectivity plays an important role in helping households and businesses stay informed, communicate with family, customers and staff, and access important services when they are needed most.

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Whether you're working from home, running a business, supporting students, streaming entertainment or simply wanting to improve your online experience, the nbn Local team can help explain the options available in your area.

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To check if your premises is eligible for a full fibre upgrade or to learn more about regional network upgrades, visit www.nbnco.com.au/checkregional

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HDeVolution delivers high-quality, professional video production services across the Cassowary Coast bringing more than two decades of industry experience to every project. 

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Founded in 1998, the business has become a trusted name and service throughout North Queensland, consistently chosen by clients seeking reliable, broadcast-standard results. 

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For owner-operator Vince Sofia no two days are ever alike. One day he’s capturing the beauty of the tropics for the tourism sector; the next he’s producing corporate content for heavy industry and commerce. The constant variety is what makes the job so exciting; you never quite know who you’ll meet along the way. 

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HDeVolution boast a range of Broadcast and Cinema- quality Equipment capable of delivering high end material. Vince is an accredited member of the AIPP, recognition of his commitment to delivery professional, industry standard results for every project. 

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He caters to a wide variety of needs including video production, commercial photography, and is a fully ReOC CASA licensed drone operator with additional Night Ops and Over Or Near People endorsements, offering a comprehensive suite of services to clients across the region. Their catalogue spans TV commercials, corporate videos, live streaming, property promotions, documentaries and special events - a breadth of work that reflects the company’s versatility and long-standing experience.

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HDeVolution is for everyone, providing a professional service and a polished high end product you’ll be proud to use to showcase your business. 

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For more information on services visit hdevolution.com.au and to discuss an upcoming project contact Vince Sofia on 0428 632 608

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Exec Team planning on the village green; Britney Anastasi, Kerry Clow, Alicia Roelofs, Nannette Gledhill and Yoland Jenkins Photo Credit Susan Kelly

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By Sian Bantock  

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The Mission Beach Village Green is set to burst into life on Thursday 20th August with the vibrant Business Bazaar event organised by the Cassowary Coast Business Women’s Network, and proudly sponsored by the Cassowary Coast Regional Council. 

A festival style atmosphere will be created for this night shopping experience.  There is strong support with almost all the Village Green businesses open for trade or dining.  In addition, there will be an additional 30 plus businesses from across the whole Cassowary Coast each setting up pop-up shops to showcase their products and services.  The evening will create an unforgettable experience as shoppers can get together, eat, drink and hopefully win some prizes along the way.  

Visitors can expect a diverse range of businesses associated with health and wellbeing, building services (pool builders, tiling, plumbing), professional services (legal, accounting, training, banking, telecommunications, family care services), marriage celebrant, jewellery makers, gourmet foods, real estates, travel, fashion and accessories, media, flowers and specialist businesses like Paper Lotus and Bingil Bay Distillery and that’s just scratching the surface! 

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To add to the fun, the Business Bazaar team have organised an interactive Bazaar Bingo concept. The rules are simple:  Visit the businesses listed on your card, collect a minimum of 15 stamps and you’ll be entered into the draw to win $10 vouchers from the food and drink outlets redeemable on the night. 30 draws across 3 timelines -  5:30pm, 6:30pm and 7:00pm - and you must be there in person to claim your prize. 

The Mission Beach Tavern, have generously donated a grand prize (a hamper filled with all the ‘good stuff’!) - drawn at 8pm. To be in the running head on over and stay for your chance to win. The Tavern will be open late and encourage shoppers and visitors to stop in and close out their celebrations at the Tavern.

As you wander through the Village Green and explore the many businesses taking part, enjoy live music from Alisa Q who will be performing throughout the evening. 

The Cassowary Coast Business Women’s Network’s aim with this event is to showcase the broad range of businesses that are here in our Cassowary Coast region – both basic services and specialist businesses – with a message to encourage people to ‘shop local’.   

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‘This event will increase awareness of the breadth of businesses that we have here in the Cassowary Coast and to highlight that we may not need to travel outside the region for so many products, services and experiences.’ Kerry Clow, President of the CCBWN said

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‘We are wrapped with the support and involvement in business across the whole region and would hope that this event will enable them to show what they do best. The Mission Beach Village Green was the perfect spot to hold the Bazaar as it is a central Cassowary Coast location and to showcase the beautifully upgraded shopping precinct.’

The evening is a chance for locals and visitors to get to know the people behind the businesses -  an opportunity to shop, connect and spark a collaboration that could grow into something exciting. 

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The details:

Date: Thursday 20th August  

Location: Mission Beach Village Green  

Time: 4:30pm - 9:00pm  

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Jack Hogan, Brad Olsen, Astrid Olsen, Axel Olsen and Angela Olsen - Photo Credit Sian Bantock  

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By Sian Bantock  

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Operating out of South Mission Beach, Olsen Industrial Electrics are your go-to specialists for complex industrial electrical works.  

The business is family owned and operated with technical expert Brad Olsen; an RPEQ certified electrical engineer and licensed electrician whilst wife Angela Olsen runs the AC Hydro Wash operations.  

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Together, they provide a variety of services to the Mission Beach and Tully districts and their extensive skillset extends well beyond conventional electrical work, delivering custom-build solutions for demanding environments.

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Services provided:  

• Large scale solar and off-grid power systems.  

• Irrigation pumping stations converted to fully off-grid operations  

• In house engineering, electrical drafting and system design  

• Customs switchboard design and construction to any spec  

• replace ergon property connection poles

• Specialise in industrial and agricultural equipment,

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Olsen Industrial Electrics are specialists in equipment from packing sheds, conveyors, motor rebuilds, pumping and irrigation  

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Enquiries can be made to Olsen Industrial Electrical on 0427 070 285 or sales@olsenelectrical.com  

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By Sian Bantock  

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Step inside House of Valmai and discover a boutique where effortless style meets every day wearability. The store offers a thoughtfully curated selection of staple pieces - from breathable linen essentials to striking statement pieces suited to special occasions. To compliment any outfit they also stock a range of timeless accessories.  

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Their signature linen collection features dresses, bottoms, top and outerwear crafted for comfort in the tropical climate Far North Queensland has to offer.

Alongside this, shoppers will find swimwear, footwear, fascinators and a variety of hair accessories, making it easy to complete a look from head to toe.  

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House of Valmai is owned by Gail Mears who has shaped the boutique into one of Tully’s most charming retail destinations. Located at 47 Butler Street in Tully, the store also has a charming line of small souvenirs inspired by the town. The store reflects Gails eye for quality, versatility and elegance.  

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“Our carefully curated collections are designed to bring comfort, confident and effortless style to your wardrobe; helping you feel as good as you look, every day.”

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In addition to their teenage and adult women’s range, House of Valmai have recently introduced a small selection of children’s clothing - ideal for stylish little ones who love to dress up.  

They regularly feature sale racks as low as $10 so shoppers can grab quality pieces at low prices.  

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They offer website exclusives and Australia-wide shipping at https://houseofvalmai.square.site . The shop is open Mon - Thurs 9am - 2pm and Saturday 9am - 12pm.  

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The Cardwell RSL Sub Branch is inviting the community to come together on August 18th to honour the service and sacrifice of Australian Vietnam veterans.

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The annual Vietnam Veterans’ Day commemorates those who served during the Vietnam War and provides an opportunity for the community to reflect on their experiences, sacrifices and lasting contribution to Australian life.

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More than 60,000 Australians served in Vietnam between 1962 and 1973, with some returning in 1975 as part of humanitarian operations. Of those who served, 523 Australians lost their lives, while around 3,000 were evacuated with wounds, injuries or illnesses.

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According to the Cardwell RSL Sub Branch, for many veterans returning home was particularly difficult; amid strong community opposition to the war, many Vietnam veterans did not receive the welcome, respect or recognition they deserved.

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Vietnam Veterans’ Day provides an opportunity to change that legacy by ensuring their service is remembered and honoured. Many veterans have also continued their commitment to their communities long after leaving the uniform, becoming valued community leaders, volunteers and advocates.

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This year’s Cardwell service will remember all those who served, from Long Tan to Coral-Balmoral, and those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

The service will include an opening address from Councillor Chris Littlemore of Cassowary Coast Regional Council, a scripture reading prepared by Padre Mick Grant and a main address from Cardwell RSL Sub Branch President Rob Lang.

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Musical performances will be provided by singer John Moore, including Khe Sanh and True Blue, while wreaths will be laid by the Cardwell RSL, Vietnam veterans, Cassowary Coast Regional Council, QATB and members of the community.

The Cardwell RSL Sub Branch encourages residents to attend and stand alongside Vietnam veterans, their families and fellow members of the community in remembrance.

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Lest we forget.

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WHAT: Vietnam Veteran’s Day Service
WHEN: 10:45am, Tuesday 18^th August, 2026
WHERE: Cardwell Cenotaph Memorial, Cardwell Foreshore, near the jetty

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Grace, Linda and Gloria with their winning orchids as part of the ‘novice’ category - Photo Supplied  

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By Sian Bantock  

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The Tully Orchid Society has been part of the local community for more than 50 years, and are still blossoming today.  

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The club currently has 28 members, with around 15 attending the monthly meetings. August’s gathering was held on Saturday at the Masonic hall, featuring colourful orchids, healthy competition and slice of cake to end the proceedings.  

Club President Patrick Leahy has been leading the society for the past 3 years and says the passion among growers is the heart of the society.  

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“There’s a lot of orchid enthusiasts out there, it becomes more than hobby it becomes a healthy addiction,” Patrick said.

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“We try to make it interactive as well, we try to have a speaker at every meeting.

“I joined to learn and I’m still learning… It’s all about sharing info and ideas for a group of people who are enthusiastic about growing of orchids.

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“52 orchids were benched on Saturday with some stunning and rare ones on display.”  

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The August meet-up had 14 members attend with each casting a vote for their favourites. Melina Andrijevic won Most Popular Orchid whilst Grace, Linda and Gloria were winners of the novice section.  

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The Tully Orchid Society meets on the first Saturday of every month (except January) at the Tully Masonic Hall. Membership fee is $15 for the year. For updates head on over to their Facebook page.  

Several Rainforest School students enjoy a music lesson with teacher aide Tara Webster (back, second from left), teacher Ian Stewart (middle, third from left) and principal Carolien Franken (middle, fourth from left). Pictured are (back, from left) Arlen, Tara Webster, Avyianna and Zephyr; (middle, from left) Xavier, Hayden, Ian Stewart and Carolien Franken; and (front, from left) Bee, Rheed, Angus and Noah. Photo supplied

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By Chelsea Ravizza

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The Rainforest School has officially secured its long-term future after Cassowary Coast Regional Council approved a Material Change of Use (MCU) application, paving the way for a 30-year lease at Frogs Hollow and bringing an end to years of uncertainty for the independent primary school.

The approval marks a significant milestone for the government-accredited school, which has spent years searching for a permanent home after its previous campus was destroyed in devastating floods.

Principal Carolien Franken said that although The Rainforest School is only in its eighth year, finding a permanent home has been central to its journey from the very beginning. While losing the school's previous campus was a major setback, she said it also revealed the resilience and strength of the school community.

"It is difficult to overstate the significance of this milestone," Ms Franken said.

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"For many people, this milestone is about much more than a lease agreement. It represents security, possibility and the chance to create a place that future generations of The Rainforest School students will call home."

Offering the full Australian Curriculum from Prep to Year 6, The Rainforest School will continue operating from Frogs Hollow while maintaining the site as a shared community space.

Ms Franken said the long-term lease would allow the school to establish a permanent home that reflects its educational vision while continuing to share Frogs Hollow with the wider community. She said the outcome also demonstrated what could be achieved through collaboration between council and the community, ensuring the site continued to benefit both the school and the broader public.

"Securing a 30-year lease at Frogs Hollow provides something every school hopes for: certainty," Ms Franken said.

"For our students, families and staff, it means we can confidently plan for the future and invest in creating a permanent home for learning."

Council said the approval reflected years of collaboration between the school, council and the wider community, with strong support shown throughout the approval process. Council also confirmed that development of the site and associated infrastructure works on the main road will not be funded through rates. Instead, the works will be financed through private investment by the school and other government funding sources.

A community celebration will be held at Frogs Hollow on Friday 14^th August to mark the beginning of the school's new chapter and recognise the many people who helped bring the vision to life.

Cassowary Coast Regional Council Mayor Teresa Millwood welcomed the outcome, describing it as a win for both the school and the wider community.

"This is a wonderful outcome for The Rainforest School and our community. Frogs Hollow will remain a shared space for everyone to enjoy, while also providing a secure, long-term home for a school that plays such an important role in our region," Mayor Millwood said.

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"This milestone is a testament to what we can achieve when we work together for the benefit of our community. Congratulations to The Rainforest School and everyone involved in making this vision a reality."

Reflecting on the school's journey, Ms Franken said the achievement belonged to the many people who had helped shape The Rainforest School over the past eight years, saying what stood out most was the commitment of those who believed the school was worth building and sustaining.

"We are incredibly grateful to Cassowary Coast Regional Council for working with us to make this outcome possible, and we are excited about what comes next," she said.

"This is not the end of a journey. In many ways, it is the beginning of a new chapter."

What: Frogs Hollow Community Celebration

When: Friday, 14th August

Where: Frogs Hollow

Bingil Bay Campground will continue to be managed by Djiru Warrangburra Aboriginal Corporation as plans for the site's future take shape following community consultation. Photo source: Bingil Bay Campground

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The future of Bingil Bay Campground is taking shape, with Djiru Warrangburra Aboriginal Corporation outlining its long-term vision for the popular coastal site following a recent community consultation on July 28^th.

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The Registered Native Title Body Corporate for the Djiru People has managed the campground since May 2023, with its agreement recently extended until June 2027. Following feedback gathered during the consultation, the corporation says it remains committed to working alongside residents, businesses and campground users to guide the site's future while preserving its unique character.

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“It was wonderful to see so many community members, neighbours, government representatives and supporters come together to learn more about Djiru Warrangburra Aboriginal Corporation, the management of the campground, and to share your ideas, questions and feedback,” said a Djiru Warrangburra Aboriginal Corporation spokesperson.

“Your participation, honest conversations and ongoing support are invaluable as we work together to protect this special place, improve the campground, and ensure it remains a welcoming and safe destination, while most importantly, respecting the cultural and environmental values of Djiru Country.”

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Cassowary Coast Regional Council said it would continue to play an important role as trustee of the reserve land, while Djiru remains responsible for the day-to-day management of the campground. Council will continue to support the site's long-term planning, appropriate improvements and sustainable operation, while working with Djiru on matters including access, safety and community communication.

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Council said it also remained responsible for the adjacent road reserve and would continue to manage that area, while supporting the Traditional Owners through grant opportunities for planning, infrastructure and operational needs where appropriate.

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“Council and Djiru will continue to work together in a practical and collaborative way on matters relating to the campground and surrounding area as they have done since the commencement of their initial contract in May of 2023,” said a Cassowary Coast Regional Council spokesperson.

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Council also confirmed it would continue to manage the adjacent road reserve while supporting the Traditional Owners through grant opportunities for planning, infrastructure and operational needs where appropriate.

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"Council values the opportunity to support Djiru's management of the campground and to work alongside the local Traditional Owners to help ensure the park remains viable and well managed into the future."

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Mission Beach locals Adam and Jolene Wagner are swapping Far North Queensland for national television as contestants on the 2026 season of The Block. Photo supplied

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By Chelsea Ravizza

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Mission Beach has its own team to cheer on this year, with locals Adam and Jolene Wagner making their television debut on the 2026 season of The Block, taking on Australia's toughest home renovation competition.

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Although officially competing as Team South Australia, the Mission Beach residents say Far North Queensland will always be home.

"We're incredibly proud to be representing South Australia as it was our home for nearly three years and we absolutely loved our time there," Adam and Jolene said.

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"Now that we are back in Mission Beach, it feels amazing to be close to the coast, our family and everything we love about Far North Queensland.

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"North Queensland has always been a huge part of who we are. We have spent many years living and working throughout the region, and we love the lifestyle, the people and the strong sense of community that comes with living in the north."

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Since premiering on Sunday 2nd August, The Block has already delivered plenty of drama, but behind the scenes the couple faced an equally demanding challenge, adapting to an unfamiliar area while quickly finding contractors capable of keeping pace with the competition's relentless deadlines. With every decision carrying the potential to make or break a room, instinct became one of their greatest assets.

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"What surprised us most was just how intense the pressure really is," they said.

"You can watch the show and think you understand it, but until you are living it every day, it is impossible to fully appreciate the pace."

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Armed with Adam's building experience and Jolene's background in property management, the pair believed they were well prepared for the challenge. However, they soon discovered nothing could fully prepare them for life on The Block.

"The pressure and time constraints are very real – I cannot stress that enough. We both love working hard; it is in our blood. However, The Block is an absolute beast, and if you let it, it can easily eat you up," Jolene said.

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"We discovered that we were even more resilient and determined than we realised. You learn very quickly how to problem-solve, make decisions under pressure and keep pushing forward, even when you are completely exhausted."

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Yet for Jolene, the emotional side of the competition proved just as challenging as the renovations themselves.

"Being on The Block had been a dream of mine for such a long time, but driving onto the site for the first time was incredibly overwhelming," she said.

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"Having spent so much time living remotely, being surrounded by people all day, every day definitely added to my anxiety. Adam and I are both doers – we like to get in, work hard and get the job done."

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Despite the pressure, the couple never lost sight of the opportunity they had been given. Now back in Mission Beach, they're settling into a new home and are eager to begin renovating their own 1980s fixer-upper, this time at their own pace.

"When the season airs, I hope locals enjoy watching the journey and feel proud to have people from Mission Beach representing the community," Jolene said.

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"Adam and I really are just average, hardworking Aussies. We hope other middle-aged couples are sitting on their couches thinking, 'If they can do it, maybe we can too.'"

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The community is invited to learn about the Halifax Rifle Range Drain Works project. Photos supplied

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The Herbert River Improvement Trust is inviting community members to attend an information session on upcoming works at the Halifax Rifle Range Drain on Friday 21st August.

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The session will provide an opportunity for residents, farmers and other community members to learn more about planned drain desilting and remediation works, as well as the broader approach being taken to improve drainage throughout the local area.

The project aims to deliver benefits for both farming and urban areas, with works expected to improve water quality, fish connectivity, landscape management and drainage outcomes.

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Project staff and technical experts will be available during the session to answer questions and discuss how the works will be delivered.

The initiative forms part of the Herbert Integrated Project, which is working across the Herbert catchment to improve water quality, flood management, sediment control and farm productivity.

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The Herbert Integrated Project is funded through the Queensland Government’s Queensland Reef Water Quality Program and delivered by Terrain NRM in partnership with the Hinchinbrook River Improvement Trust, Hinchinbrook Shire Council, Herbert Cane Productivity Services Ltd, Canegrowers Herbert River, JCU TropWATER, QCAR, AgForce and the Department of Primary Industries.

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Community members are encouraged to attend and find out more about how the upcoming works will contribute to a whole-of-system approach to local drainage management.

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For more information or to RSVP, contact Andrew Carr on 0417 968 132.

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WHAT: Halifax Rifle Range Drain Community Session
WHEN: 1:00pm, Friday 21st, August, 2026
WHERE: Andrew Carr’s shed, Taylors Beach Road
RSVP: By August 20th

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Getting involved with nature is nurturing. Photo supplied

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As occupational therapists who work with children every day, we’re often asked for our opinion on the best way to help kids.

The question is usually something like, “How do I get my child to concentrate/clean up after themselves/eat more veggies/brush their teeth?”

Our answer often surprises people.

As occupational therapists, we don’t just consider the task itself. We consider the child’s whole life.

Ask us about concentration and we might start asking about sleep and play. Tooth brushing troubles? We might ask how your child feels about clothes with tags.

The questions can seem completely unrelated, but there’s usually a reason we’re asking.

OTs are pros at zooming out to see the whole picture, then diving back in to help with a specific goal. In the process, we sometimes bring two seemingly unrelated things together to create that “A-ha!” moment for you and your child.

And it’s not just at home. We work with teachers and educators too, looking at the whole classroom and noticing what might be getting in the way.

If a child you live or work with is having a hard time and you can’t figure out why, perhaps it’s time to ask an OT. They might just make a connection you hadn’t considered.

If you’d like to talk to an OT, reach out to Naturally Kids.

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W: www.naturallykids.com.au  

E: hello@naturallykids.com.au

P: 07 4440 5256

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Contributed with thanks by Naturally Kids

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Queensland’s sugarcane industry has always been built on people - growers who have dedicated their lives to the land, supported their neighbours and helped shape the communities that make cane country what it is today.

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As CANEGROWERS celebrates 100 years of representing and supporting sugarcane growers, the Legends of Cane Country initiative recognises the people whose contribution, commitment and passion have helped build the industry over generations.

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The initiative provides an opportunity for communities to recognise individuals whose leadership, generosity, dedication and quiet determination have made a lasting impact within their district.

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These are the people who have shared their knowledge, supported their neighbours, represented growers, embraced change and played a role in strengthening the future of the sugarcane industry.

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The Herbert River district has a proud history built on generations of growers, families and community members who have contributed to the success of our industry. The Legends of Cane Country nominations reflect the diversity of that contribution; from long-standing growers and industry leaders to emerging voices who represent the future of cane country.

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The nominees recognised through this initiative, across the categories of Past, Present and Emerging Legends, include:

• Alf Cristaudo – recognised for decades of leadership and advocacy across the industry for the Herbert, Australia and Internationally.

• Don Murray – recognised for his contribution to cane farming and preserving important local community traditions.

• Gino Scovazzi – recognised for a lifetime dedicated to farming and his continued passion for working on the farm alongside his family.

• Giuseppe Cantamessa – recognised for his contribution to grower representation and his role as a foundation member of CANEGROWERS.

• Jackson Scott – recognised as an emerging grower balancing industry employment, his own farming operation and family commitments.

• John Mahony – recognised for his dedication, resilience and longstanding contribution to the Abergowrie cane farming community.

• Lex Exelby – recognised for his long standing contributions and support to the industry, community and CANEGROWERS Herbert River.

• Michael Pisano – recognised for 33 years of service representing Herbert River growers, including as Chair and QCGO director.

• Nelson Luigi Reinaudo – recognised for a lifetime of cane farming, industry service and commitment to innovation and future generations.

• Rebekah Pace – recognised as an emerging leader through her involvement in her family farm and the CANEGROWERS Herbert River Young Growers Development Group.

• Rex Carr – recognised for decades of contribution to cane farming, innovation and his family’s long-standing connection to the sugar industry.

• Roy Pace – recognised for his contribution to farming, industry representation and supporting future generations.

• Stephen Guazzo – recognised for his lifelong commitment to the industry and grower representation in various Director and Chair roles with Canegrowers Herbert River and QCGO.  

• Steven Marbelli – recognised for his contribution and service to the Herbert River sugarcane community, into the new era of the industry.

• William (Bill) Adams – recognised for his service to growers, the Macknade Mill Suppliers Committee and his family farming legacy.

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For the Herbert River district, these stories provide an opportunity to honour the people who have contributed to our region’s rich sugarcane history and helped pave the way for future generations.

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While farming practices, technology and industry landscapes have changed over the past century, the values that underpin cane country remain the same. Resilience, community, hard work and a commitment to leaving the industry stronger for those who follow.

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CANEGROWERS Herbert River is proud to celebrate all Legends of Cane Country nominees and acknowledge the contribution they have made to our industry and our community.

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Behind every cane crop is a story, and behind every story are the people who make cane country strong.

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Townsville Beekeepers Club President Frana McKinstry. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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North Queensland beekeepers were urged to get ready for a pest that could devastate local hives when the Townsville Beekeepers Club brought its varroa mite education program to Ingham.

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The workshop gave local hobby and commercial beekeepers a hands-on look at some of the tools available to manage the destructive parasite before it establishes in the region.

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Townsville Beekeepers Club President Frana McKinstry said varroa was moving north through Queensland and its arrival in North Queensland was a matter of when, not if.

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“It will be coming up here,” Frana said.

Varroa mites reproduce inside capped brood cells, multiplying rapidly before emerging from the hive. Unlike a tick, which feeds on blood, varroa feeds on the fat body tissue of bees, weakening them and potentially wiping out an entire colony.

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“One varroa mite can infect an entire beehive,” Frana said.

A key focus of the Ingham workshop was a Varroa Controller, a machine that treats brood frames with controlled heat and humidity to target mites hidden beneath the caps.

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Townsville Beekeepers Club Vice President Alan Cooney said the machine heats the frames to around 41.5 degrees Celsius for two hours, replicating the conditions inside a hive. The heat damages the mites while allowing the developing bees to continue their normal cycle.

“The bees will be totally fine. It’s just those varroa that are damaged,” Cooney said.

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The treatment can knock out roughly 80 per cent of the mites in a hive, with the remaining 20 per cent being mites living on adult bees.

That means the controller is not a one-off solution, with Cooney explaining beekeepers need to maintain a treatment regime, returning to the hive regularly to keep mite numbers under control. Being a water and heat-based treatment, the machine is also chemical-free.

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“It will reduce the amount of chemicals that you’re putting into your hive,” Cooney said.

The machine is adjustable and can accommodate different numbers and sizes of frames, making it suitable for hobbyists with just a few hives as well as larger operations.

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The Townsville Beekeepers Club purchased the machine through a Queensland Department of Primary Industries grant, with the funding also supporting education sessions across the region.

Selectability celebrates 30 years. Photo supplied

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Thirty years ago, the story of selectability began with a simple idea: people experiencing mental health challenges should be supported to live meaningful lives in their community.

What started in 1996 as Supported Options In Lifestyle Access Service (SOLAS), a small pilot project operating from a rental property in Oonoonba, has grown into one of regional Queensland’s largest community service organisations, supporting thousands of people and families across a diverse footprint.

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Ingham has played an important role in that journey.

Long before establishing a permanent presence in the region, selectability was supporting local people to improve their wellbeing through a range of outreach programs.  

As community needs grew, so did selectability's commitment to the region, resulting in the purchase of the iconic Casra's Tavern, that quickly became a vibrant community hub connecting people through group activities and tailored support.

When devastating floods hit the region in 2025, that commitment was put to the test. Despite extensive damage to the facility, the team continued supporting locals and played an active role in the community’s recovery.  

More than a year on, selectability continues to operate from a temporary location while renovations are underway, with plans to create an even larger and more welcoming space for the community.

Regional coordinator Julie Ross said the timing was especially meaningful.

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"As we celebrate 30 years of caring for people and communities across Queensland, we're also investing in the future of our Ingham hub so that even more locals can connect, participate and access support when they need it," Julie said.

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"Over the years, we've become part of the Ingham community. We've supported people through challenging times, including disaster recovery, but we've also shared in the everyday moments that matter most, whether that's a group activity, a community BBQ or simply helping someone feel connected.

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"We're excited about what's ahead and proud to continue building on our commitment to the Ingham region."

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While much has changed since those early days in Oonoonba, selectability's focus remains the same: creating opportunities for people to connect, thrive and be part of their community.

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Contributed with thanks by selectability

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Cell 1 and Tip shop at the Warrens Hill Landfill and Resource Recovery Centre. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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Hinchinbrook Shire Council is looking to make the most of new Queensland Government funding aimed at increasing recycling and reducing the amount of waste sent to landfill, following the recent completion of a new cell at Warrens Hill Landfill and Resource Recovery Centre.

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The State Government has announced a $487 million Waste Reduction and Recycling Activation Fund as part of its Less Landfill, More Recycling 2035 strategy, with funding available to councils and industry for recycling and resource recovery infrastructure.

For Hinchinbrook Shire Council Utilities Portfolio Councillor Pat Lynch, the investment comes at an important time as Council works to maximise the lifespan of its newest landfill facility.

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“Council has made a major investment in the future of waste management for our Shire with the recent completion of Cell 4 at Warrens Hill Landfill,” Cr Lynch said.

“As landfill construction becomes increasingly expensive, it’s important we do everything we can to make this asset last as long as possible.”

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The new State Government funding could provide an opportunity for Council to further develop the Warrens Hill facility, with Cr Lynch confirming Council intends to pursue funding opportunities that align with its Corporate Plan.

“Our priority is upgrading the Warrens Hill Landfill and Resource Recovery Centre to increase recycling and resource recovery, reduce waste going to landfill, and deliver long-term environmental and financial benefits for the community,” he said.

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The $487 million package includes funding for expanded kerbside recycling and organics services, new resource recovery infrastructure, recycling education and a dedicated $11 million Regional Recycling Transport Fund to help move recyclable materials to processing facilities.

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For a regional council such as Hinchinbrook, improved resource recovery could help divert more material before it reaches Warrens Hill.

“Reducing the amount of waste sent to landfill is a key priority for Council,” Cr Lynch said.

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“Through our Corporate Plan, we’re focused on developing a long-term waste management strategy that improves sustainability outcomes and increases resource recovery.”

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He said recycling and recovering valuable materials would be important to extending the life of the Shire’s landfill facilities.

“Every tonne of material we can divert from landfill makes a difference.”

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While infrastructure and funding will play a role, Council is also encouraging residents to take action at home. Cr Lynch urged residents to follow the four Rs: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and Recover.

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Simple changes include using reusable bags, bottles and coffee cups, participating in Containers for Change, using Council’s embedded battery collection points and ensuring recyclable items are disposed of correctly. Residents can also use the free Recycle Mate app through Council’s website to check what can and cannot be recycled.

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Green waste disposal remains free for Hinchinbrook residents at the Warrens Hill Landfill and Resource Recovery Centre.

“The best way to reduce waste is to avoid creating it in the first place,” Cr Lynch said.

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“Every small action makes a difference.”

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“When our community works together to recycle more and waste less, we can extend the life of our landfill, reduce costs and create a more sustainable Hinchinbrook for future generations.”

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At Ingham Wholelife Pharmacy, there’s a range of fermented products to try, from kimchi to kombucha. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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Fermented foods have been enjoyed around the world for centuries, and they're now gaining attention for their impressive health benefits. Foods such as sauerkraut and kimchi are made through a natural fermentation process, where beneficial bacteria break down sugars and produce probiotics.

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Probiotics are often called "good bacteria" because they help support a healthy balance of microbes in the digestive system. A healthy gut plays an important role in digestion, nutrient absorption and immune function. Many people find that including fermented foods in their diet can help reduce bloating, improve digestion and promote regular bowel movements.

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Sauerkraut, made from fermented cabbage, is rich in fibre, vitamins C and K, and beneficial bacteria. Kimchi, a traditional Korean dish, offers similar benefits while also containing ingredients such as garlic, ginger and chilli, which provide additionalantioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.

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As with any dietary change, people with certain medical conditions or dietary restrictions should seek advice from a healthcare professional or accredited practising dietitian if they're unsure whether fermented foods are suitable for them.

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If you're new to fermented foods, start with small portions to allow your digestive system to adjust. Look for refrigerated, unpasteurised products, as these are more likely to contain live cultures. Ingham Wholelife Pharmacy stocks a range of fermented products, so there’s plenty to try!

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Adding a spoonful of sauerkraut to a sandwich or enjoying kimchi alongside stir-fries is an easy and flavourful way to support your gut health every day.

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North Queensland winners for the 2026 Queensland Training Awards. Photo supplied

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Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa is proud to share that the State Government is recognising the apprentices, trainees, students, teachers and employers building North Queensland’s future, with leading vocational education and training achievers honoured at the 2026 Queensland Training Awards.

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The regional final celebrated people choosing practical skills, building rewarding careers and helping deliver the workforce needed to support local industries and economic growth.

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The Member for Hinchinbrook said North Queensland relied on a strong pipeline of skilled workers.

“Whether it’s agriculture, construction, manufacturing or the many small businesses across our region, skilled workers are essential to keeping North Queensland moving,” Mr Chiesa said.

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“Vocational education gives young people a practical pathway into rewarding careers while building the workforce our local industries need for the future.

“Congratulations to all of our local winners and finalists. It’s fantastic to see people from Hinchinbrook being recognised for the work they’ve put in, and we’ll be cheering them on at the State finals.”

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The awards are now in their 65th year and recognise excellence across industries including automotive, business, leadership and management, health, education, community services, and trades by highlighting the people and businesses strengthening local communities and supporting the future workforce.  

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Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training Ros Bates said the awards recognised Queenslanders playing a role in building the future of the state.  

“These awards celebrate Queenslanders who have chosen to learn a trade, develop new skills or invest in Queensland workers,” Minister Bates said.  

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“Every apprentice completing their qualification, every employer investing in training and every student choosing vocational education helps build a stronger economy and creates more opportunities for Queenslanders.”  

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Regional winners now progress to the Queensland state final in September.

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(Contributed with thanks by the office of Member for Hinchinbrook, Wayde Chiesa MP)

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ISHS Students Nalini Schofield and Keldon Fletcher at CGEN 2026. Photo supplied

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Contributed with thanks by the office of Wayde Chiesa MP, Member for Hinchinbrook

Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa, knows that coming from a small town does not limit your potential and congratulates the hard work that has seen two Year 12 students from Ingham State High School on stage alongside some of Queensland’s most talented young performers for the 22nd annual Creative Generation – State Schools Onstage (CGEN), that ran Thursday 16th, Friday 17th and Saturday 18th July.  

Mr Chiesa congratulated the local students for proudly representing Ingham State High School at Queensland’s largest youth performing arts event.  

“It is fantastic to see Nalini and Keldon having the opportunity to take their talents from Ingham to one of Queensland’s biggest stages,” Mr Chiesa said.  

“Creative Generation gives students the chance to perform alongside young people from across Queensland and experience major live production after months of preparation.  

“I’m incredibly proud to see students from Hinchinbrook taking advantage of opportunities like this, building new skills and proudly representing their school and community.”  

Year 12 Ingham State High School student Keldon Fletcher said his involvement in CGEN had helped turn an interest in technical production into opportunities beyond school.  

“CGEN has been such a unique experience and has given me the chance to work alongside global leaders in technical production,” he said.  

“I started out as a backstage crew member in my first year, before spending the next two years as a Communication Technician.  

“It’s been a really valuable learning experience, and it’s also helped me secure future employment in the technical industry.”  

Fellow Year 12 student Nalini Schofield said four years of involvement in CGEN had given her the opportunity to experience different sides of a major production.  

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“I’ve been involved in CGEN for four years, twice in the singing choir and twice as part of the backstage crew,” she said.  

“This year I learnt more about staging, prop design, lighting and sound, as well as the opportunities available in the industry during and after high school.  

“I got to connect with new and old friends and had the privilege of not only experiencing this amazing state schools production but being part of it.  

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“I’m excited to see where the knowledge, support and connections I’ve gained through CGEN take me in the future.”  

This year’s Creative Generation – State Schools Onstage brought together 2,000 students from Kindy to Year 12, representing 181 state schools across Queensland.  

Following six months of preparation, students took part in five arena-scale shows across three days at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre under the 2026 theme, Dream Big – A Brighter Future.  

Each performance includes a 500-voice choir, 70-piece symphony orchestra, more than 1,000 dancers, as well as student stage and media crews.  

Minister for Education and the Arts John-Paul Langbroek said the State Government was proud to deliver another year of the event.  

“This program is about more than just performance — it builds confidence, teamwork, skills and memories that will last a lifetime,” Minister Langbroek said.  

“For many young artists, Creative Generation has been a springboard into professional careers, and I want to thank all the teachers, parents and volunteers who’ve helped give these students an unforgettable opportunity.  

Creative Generation – State Schools Onstage 2026 will be broadcast on the Nine Network later this year. Find out more here: creativegeneration.education.qld.gov.au

The first six monthly rates notices for the 2026-2027 financial year will begin distribution this week and for many in the community this is a time of year where it will have impact on their family and business budgets.

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This year, Council has made some modification in a number of categories within the rating system and some rate payers may notice changes to their rates notices.

I appreciate that opening a rates notice is never anyone's favourite part of the year, and for some ratepayers, particularly within the Sugar Cane and Forestry and Other Rural Land category, this year's notice may look quite different to previous years.

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For many years, Council has worked hard to keep rate increases as low as possible, recognising the unique challenges our community faces.

We understand the pressures on households, businesses and primary producers, particularly after recent years of natural disasters, rising living costs and increasing operational expenses.

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Like many families and businesses, Council has experienced significant increases in costs. In the past financial year alone, the cost of delivering essential services and maintaining infrastructure increased substantially, driven by inflation, rising material and contractor costs, and other external pressures.

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As part of preparing the 2026-27 Budget, Council engaged an independent financial specialist to review Council's long-term financial sustainability. The findings confirmed that changes were needed to ensure Council can continue delivering the essential services and infrastructure our community relies upon both now and into the future.

Following this review, Council adopted a number of changes, including a 4.5 per cent general rate increase, the introduction of a single residential rating category, adjustments to multi-unit rates, and an increase in the rate capping threshold for properties within the Sugar Cane and Forestry and Other Rural Land category.

For many years, rate capping has helped reduce the impact of increasing State Government land valuations on rural properties.  

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This year, Council increased the capping threshold from 10 per cent to 30 per cent as part of its financial sustainability strategy. While rate capping continues to apply, some rural properties may experience a larger increase than they have seen in previous years due to changes in land valuations and the revised cap.

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Council acknowledges that these increases may present challenges for some ratepayers. These decisions were not taken lightly; however, they were considered necessary to ensure Council remains financially sustainable and can continue maintaining critical infrastructure and delivering the services our community expects.

I also want to reassure residents and landowners that support is available. Council is offering payment arrangements that allow rate increases above last year's rates notice to be paid over a 12-month period, with interest waived on approved arrangements for the duration of the agreement.

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If you have questions about your rates notice or would like to discuss available support options, I encourage you to contact Council's Revenue Team on (07) 4776 4600 or email Revenue@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au.

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While these decisions are never easy, taking action now helps ensure Council can continue to provide essential services, maintain infrastructure and support the future growth and prosperity of the Hinchinbrook Shire.

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Thank you for your understanding and your continued contribution to our community.

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An adorable and playful furball full of youthful spirit and boundless energy! At just eight months old, this charming kitty is looking to join a loving family where her friendly demeanor and zest for life can truly shine. Cotton delights in capturing your attention, whether it's by cozying up next to you during a TV show or playfully zooming around the room like a whirlwind of joy.

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She has shown that she prefers being the only cat in the household, but she's comfortable around dogs, making her a fantastic addition if you have a canine companion. Cotton is an easy-going feline who thrives in an environment where she can participate in everyday life with her humans.

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If you’re looking for an affectionate and entertaining feline friend, Cotton could be the perfect match for your home! Don't miss the chance to create beautiful memories with this delightful young cat. Inquire about Cotten at angelpawsinc.com.au/pets-for-adoption/cats

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Included in adoption fee of $225: DESEXED, MICRO-CHIPPED, up to date VACCINATIONS, FLEA/TICK/INTESTINAL WORM treated.

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DOB: 24/10/2025

Sex: Female

Breed: DSH

Colour: Tabby & White

Cat Friendly: No

Dog Friendly: Yes

Kid Friendly: Yes

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Hinchinbrook Shire Council is seeking Expressions of Interest from individuals with relevant experience, local knowledge, or an interest in joining the Cemetery Advisory Reference Group.

The purpose of the group is to provide advice and feedback to Council on matters relating to cemetery planning, maintenance, heritage preservation, service delivery and future development.

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Council welcomes Expressions of Interest from community members, local historians, funeral and memorial service providers, volunteers, and others interested in preserving and enhancing the Shire's cemeteries.

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Local knowledge, community connections, and a commitment to helping shape the future of these important community spaces will be highly valued.

The Cemetery Advisory Reference Group will provide an opportunity for community members and industry stakeholders to contribute to the future planning, management and preservation of cemeteries across the Hinchinbrook Shire.

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Through informed discussion and local knowledge, the group will assist Council in identifying priorities, improving services, protecting heritage values, and ensuring cemeteries continue to meet the needs of current and future generations.

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Individuals with experience, skills or an interest in cemetery services, heritage preservation, funeral and bereavement services, community engagement, governance, planning, infrastructure, local history, or community development are encouraged to apply.

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Expressions of Interest are open for two weeks and close at 5:00pm Friday 21st August 2026.

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The forms can be downloaded on the online version of this article at Hinchinbrooklife.com - Terms of Reference and Expression of Interest Form

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Completed forms can be submitted by email to council@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au or delivered to Council’s office, 25 Lannercost Street, Ingham. For further information, contact Council’s customer service centre on (07) 4776 4600.

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Recovery Officer Jane Carne, Chamber of Commerce Industry and Tourism President Mary Brown, Rachael Cliffe and associate from Telstra, and Casie Scott from nbn. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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Hinchinbrook residents had the opportunity to put their connectivity questions directly to nbn and Telstra representatives during a pop-up event at the Woolworths carpark in Ingham on Wednesday 5th August.

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The event was an opportunity for Testra to work alongside nbn to help locals better understand the services available to them.

Both organisations provided face-to-face advice on internet services, mobile coverage, account options and new technology, while also highlighting upgrades and changes taking place across the region.

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“Great to partner with nbn today. There’s a bit of myth busting on both sides, I think, as to whose network does what, and who's responsible for what.” said Telstra’s Rachael Cliff.

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Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Tourism President Mary Brown said the opportunity was particularly valuable as Hinchinbrook continues its recovery.

“Since recovery, we’ve had nbn in town doing work around the hardware that’s needed, and people being able to come in and actually talk to someone face-to-face is really important, especially with our older demographic,” Mary said.

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nbn Representative Cassie Scott said there were plenty of positive developments to share with communities across Hinchinbrook, highlighting significant upgrades to fixed wireless networks in coastal and inland communities, including Forrest Beach, Taylors Beach and Abergowrie, with higher-speed plans now available to eligible residents.

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Residents were encouraged to check their addresses to see whether they are eligible for a free nbn Fibre to the Premises upgrade.

The upgrade can provide fibre all the way from the exchange to the individual home or business, offering faster speeds, less buffering and greater capacity for multiple people to be online at once.

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“Fibre to the premises is a lot more resilient, and particularly in a flood region like Ingham,” Cassie said.

Representatives from Telstra were also on hand to discuss changes in mobile technology, including the company's satellite-to-mobile services.

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Eligible Telstra customers with compatible devices and plans can now send and receive SMS messages via satellite when outside mobile coverage, provided they have a clear view of the sky. For people who regularly travel, work remotely, head offshore or spend time in areas without mobile reception, the technology could provide an additional way to stay connected.

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Rachael Cliff also used the event to remind customers about upcoming changes to older telecommunications services, including the retirement of the CDMA radio network and ADSL network.

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Customers receiving communications about these changes were encouraged not to dismiss them as potential scams, with Rachael confirming the notifications are legitimate and designed to help customers transition to newer services.

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The pop-up also gave locals the chance to review their accounts, discuss available plans, explore handset options and ask questions about who is responsible for different parts of the telecommunications network.

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Historic photos of the 103 Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets. Photos supplied:     103 Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets Archives

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For 75 years, the 103 Squadron of the Australian Air Force Cadets has been helping shape generations of young people across the Hinchinbrook.  

From humble beginnings the squadron has grown into an enduring local institution, providing countless cadets with opportunities to develop confidence, resilience and lifelong skills.  

As the squadron prepares to celebrate its milestone anniversary, members are reflecting on a proud history while inviting past and present cadets, volunteers and supporters to help commemorate seven and a half decades of service to the community.

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Read more here: https://www.hinchinbrooklife.com/article/103-squadron-australian-air-force-cadets-celebrates-75-years

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Many of the variety packs offer different cuts to make meal planning easy with all the options. Photo credit: Halifax Meats

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There's no longer any need to make the trip to the butcher, with Halifax Meats bringing premium-quality meat straight to your doorstep.

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The family-owned business now offers a convenient home delivery service, making it easier than ever for customers across the region to stock up on fresh meat, handcrafted smallgoods and freezer favourites without leaving home. Deliveries are available every Monday and Wednesday, with orders required before 11am on the day of delivery. Even if no one is home, customers can have peace of mind knowing their order will be packed on ice in insulated foam boxes to keep products fresh until they arrive.

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Hold the tongs! Are you planning a family gathering? Organising a Father's Day backyard barbecue? Or simply looking to fill the freezer and save yourself extra trips to the shops? Halifax Meats has a wide range of fresh cuts, barbecue favourites, handcrafted sausagesand value packs to suit every occasion.

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Halifax Meats has built a strong reputation since opening in 2009, offering locally prepared products, fresh Tablelands grass-fed beef cut in-store each week and an extensive range of meats, game and handcrafted Hinchinbrook smallgoods. From everyday family dinners to entertaining guests, there's an option to suit every household.

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Customers can also choose from a variety of value packs designed to make meal planning easy, whether feeding a couple, a growing family or stocking the freezer for the weeks ahead.

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To browse the full range or place a home delivery order, visit www.halifaxmeats.com.au or call (07) 4777 7711.

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The Halifax Hotel’s traditional horseshoe bar also stocks all your favourite spirits. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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First licensed in 1882, the Halifax Hotel has stood at the heart of the Hinchinbrook community for 144 years. Throughout its history it has endured devastating fires, cyclones, tropical monsoons, severe storms and changing generations. Through every challenge, it has remained a place where people gather, celebrate milestones and support one another.

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Today, another chapter in that history is unfolding.

Three months after reopening its bar and bottleshop, the Halifax Hotel is once again welcoming locals and visitors while restoration work continues throughout the remainder of the building.

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For owners Luke and Joe, the past 17 months have been both challenging and rewarding.

"We've learnt very quickly that restoring a heritage hotel is never straightforward," Luke said.

"There have been many moving parts along the way. Insurance settlements, coordinating trades, engineering, material supply and restoration timeframes have all played a part in the journey. At times it has felt like navigating a maze, but we've simply kept moving forward one step at a time."

Planning is now focused on reopening the kitchen, dining room, pool room and beer garden. Rather than replacing what was lost, the owners have worked alongside builders, engineers and consultants to restore the hotel in a way that respects its heritage while preparing it for the future.

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The project also includes practical improvements such as enhanced flood mitigation and improved stormwater runoff to help the hotel better withstand future weather events.

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"When we lost the kitchen after the weather event, it honestly felt like we'd lost the heart of the hotel," Luke said.

"But through all of that, we saw the very best of this community.

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"During the emergency, the Halifax Hotel became home to more than 30 emergency service personnel, including SES volunteers, Queensland Police and Queensland Ambulance crews who were working tirelessly to protect our region.

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"At the same time, many locals quietly turned up with tools, equipment, advice or simply a willingness to lend a hand. As the new custodians of the Halifax Hotel, Joe and I will never forget that generosity. It reminded us that this hotel has always been about people."

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The restoration has also uncovered reminders of the hotel's history, including a beautifully crafted arched window hidden behind a wall upstairs for decades. Positioned above the original timber staircase, the feature is now being carefully restored.

"It was one of those moments where you stop and appreciate the people who built this place all those years ago," Luke said.

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"Finding original features like that reminds us that we're not creating something new—we're simply uncovering and preserving the history that was always there. We hope people will walk through the doors and feel that history has been respected."

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The next milestone is the reopening of the kitchen, with dine-in and takeaway meals anticipated between late September and mid-October, subject to restoration progress.

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"We don't really see ourselves as owners," Luke said.

"We see ourselves as custodians.

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"This hotel has stood here long before us, and with God's grace it will still be standing long after we're gone. Our responsibility is simply to care for it, respect its history and leave it in a better position for the next generation.

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"We're thankful for how far we've come, grateful for the support we've received, and we're looking forward to welcoming everyone back as each stage of the restoration is completed."

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Wet Tropic Waterways Chair Simon Costanzo and Wet Tropic Waterways Partnership Executive Officer Rowan Hutchinson with the 2026 Wet Tropics Waterways Health Report Card and Reef & Rivers Magazine. Photo supplied: Terrain NRM

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The Herbert River catchment has continued to demonstrate resilience despite one of the region's most significant flood events in recent years, according to the latest Wet Tropics Waterway Health Report Card.

Released this week, the report found waterways across the Wet Tropics continue to record "good" to "moderate" health, with long-term monitoring showing conditions have remained relatively stable despite repeated climate challenges.

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The report highlights the impact of February 2025's extreme rainfall, when more than two metres fell across parts of the lower Herbert region, triggering widespread flooding around Ingham.

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"This pushed low-salinity flood waters onto inshore coral reefs, impacting coral condition," Wet Tropics Waterways Chair Dr Simon Costanzo said.

Despite the impacts of flooding, the report found the region's waterways have remained resilient over time.

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"With more than a decade of consistent, independent monitoring, we can look beyond seasonal fluctuations and better understand how our waterways are faring over time. So far, they seem to be holding ground, which highlights how important it is for everyone to stay focused on taking action," Dr Costanzo said.

The report card draws on 11 years of scientific monitoring to assess the health of rivers, estuaries and coastal waters throughout the Wet Tropics, providing valuable insights into long-term environmental trends.

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Queensland Environment and Tourism Minister Andrew Powell said continued investment in improving water quality remained vital to protecting the Great Barrier Reef and the waterways that feed into it.

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The Wet Tropics Waterway Health Report Card is released annually by Wet Tropics Waterways as part of ongoing efforts to monitor and improve the health of waterways across North Queensland.

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More detailed information about the Wet Tropics Waterway Health Report Card and results can be found at wettropicswaterways.org.au/wet-tropics-report-card

(Contributed with thanks by Terrain NRM)

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EVE EXELBY Accepting Bursary from Geoff Low, Member of Herbert River Farmers League. Photo supplied

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On Saturday 4th July, the Herbert River Farmers' League hosted its Annual Bursary Presentation Evening at the Herbert River RSL. This year's bursary recipients were Gemma Di Bella and Eve Exelby.

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Gemma is now enrolled in the Faculty of Agricultural Science at the University of Queensland's Gatton campus, while Eve is studying Paramedicine at Central Queensland University in Rockhampton.

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Both students were accompanied by their parents, Mr and Mrs L. Di Bella and Mr and Mrs B. Exelby. A special moment in the evening came when it was revealed that Mr B. Exelby was himself a recipient of a Herbert River Farmers' League bursary in 1982, when he studied at Burdekin Agricultural College.

This year marks the presentation of the 120th and 121st bursaries since the Herbert River Farmers' League shifted its focus from representing farmers' interests to supporting educational pursuits. The origin, growth and development of the Herbert River Farmers' League is both fascinating and historically significant.

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The Farmers' League was formed in 1897, comprising delegates from various Planters' Clubs, beginning with the Halifax Planters' Club, which was associated with the sugar cane industry. The Farmers' League became a company in 1923, enabling it to purchase farmers' equipment at more affordable prices than those offered by commercial suppliers at the time.

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In 1977, the League began its educational support program, agreeing to assist students from the district who wished to attend the Queensland Agricultural College in the Burdekin. With the closure of the Halifax Planters' Club in 2008, the Herbert River Farmers' League Incorporated became the last surviving link with the early cane planters of the Herbert River district.

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From a small beginning in 1977, the League has invested more than $400,000 in bursaries to support the education of local students. The League congratulates this year's bursary recipients on their outstanding academic achievements and trusts this financial assistance will contribute to successful and rewarding careers.

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(Contributed with thanks by Maurice Filei, with assistance by Victoria Velton)

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Pop in and have a chat with Telstra in the Woolworths Ingham carpark. Photo supplied: Telstra

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Contributed by Telstra

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Telstra is looking forward to meeting locals in Hinchinbrook, answering connectivity questions, and helping customers get the most from their services. Whether you're considering a mobile upgrade, improving your home internet, or simply exploring your options, our team will be on hand to help.

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We're especially excited to showcase Telstra Satellite Messaging and Telstra Satellite Apps. Introduced in partnership with SpaceX's Starlink Direct to Cell network, Satellite Messaging allows eligible customers with compatible devices to send and receive SMS when outside mobile coverage, provided they have a clear view of the sky. Telstra Satellite Apps builds on this capability by providing lite data access to selected Telstra apps beyond the reach of the mobile network.

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For many people across regional and rural Australia, connectivity is more than a convenience, it's essential. Whether you're working on a property, travelling, exploring the outdoors, or faced with an unexpected situation, satellite connectivity can provide a way to connect when mobile coverage isn't available.

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Technology continues to evolve rapidly, and understanding the options can be challenging. That's why our team will be available in the Woolworths carpark this Wednesday to provide practical advice and support. Whether you'd like a bill health check, information on Telstra Plus rewards, guidance on mobile coverage solutions, or advice for your home or small business, we're here to help.

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Come and have a chat with the team. We'd love to see you there.

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WHAT: Telstra in Hinchinbrook

WHEN: Throughout the day, Wednesday 5th, August

WHERE: Woolworths Carpark, Ingham

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Tilapia are mouth brooders, carrying and protecting the next generation. The young can survive if the dead mother fish is thrown back into the water. Photo source: DPI QLD

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Invasive Tilapia Raise Concerns In Hinchinbrook

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By Victoria Velton

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Local fishers say one of Australia's most destructive pest fish is becoming an increasingly common sight in Hinchinbrook waterways, raising concerns for native fish and the future health of the region's aquatic ecosystems.

For nearly five decades, Jeff Snell has watched the waterways of the Hinchinbrook region change.

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A member of the Cardwell Sportfishing Club since 1978, Jeff grew up fishing alongside his father and has spent a lifetime learning the rhythms of local rivers, estuaries and creeks. While changing seasons, weather and fish populations are all part of life on the water, one change has increasingly caught his attention in recent years: the spread of tilapia.

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“People are seeing more of them,” Jeff said.  

“It's throwing the ecosystem out of balance.”

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Once kept as ornamental aquarium fish, tilapia are now regarded by Queensland's Department of Primary Industries as one of Australia's greatest threats to native freshwater biodiversity. Established populations now exist throughout much of Queensland's east coast, with the hardy fish capable of surviving in rivers, creeks, drains, dams and even tidal estuaries.

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Jeff believes many of the infestations now being seen across North Queensland can be traced back decades, when aquarium fish were released into waterways around Townsville before gradually spreading through connected catchments during floods and wet seasons.

"People think they're only a freshwater fish, but they actually adapt to saltwater as well. Once you get floods and waterways connecting, they can move into new areas very quickly."

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That ability to survive in both fresh and brackish water has helped make tilapia one of Queensland's most successful invasive fish.

Unlike many native species, tilapia tolerate poor water quality, low oxygen levels and a wide range of temperatures. They reproduce rapidly, with female tilapia protecting fertilised eggs by carrying them in their mouths until the young are developed enough to survive.

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"It's one of the reasons they spread so easily," Jeff explained.

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"If the female moves into another creek during a flood, she's carrying the next generation with her."

The Department of Primary Industries says tilapia can quickly dominate waterways thanks to their prolific breeding, simple diet and ability to adapt to almost any aquatic environment. They compete with native fish for food and habitat, aggressively defend breeding sites and disturb aquatic vegetation while building nests, crowding out other fish.

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For recreational anglers, the growing population is becoming increasingly noticeable.

Jeff recalls hearing of tilapia being caught near the mouth of Fisher Creek as far back as the 1980s, demonstrating their ability to move through tidal systems as well as freshwater habitats.

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He also points to established populations in places such as Warrina Lakes near Innisfail, where community fishing competitions are held to help reduce local numbers.

"They're not put back into the water," he said.

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"That's part of the rules. Once you catch one, it stays out."

Under Queensland's Biosecurity Act, tilapia are classified as restricted invasive fish. They must not be returned to the water, used as bait, kept alive or moved between waterways. Anyone catching one is required to humanely destroy the fish before disposing of it appropriately.

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Despite being considered good eating in many parts of the world, Jeff said their value as a food fish is outweighed by the environmental risk they pose.

"There's nothing wrong with eating them," he said, "The important thing is that they don't go back into the water."

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While there is currently no practical broad-scale method of eradicating established tilapia populations, Jeff believes public awareness remains one of the strongest tools available.

"People need to understand why you can't just release unwanted aquarium fish into local creeks or rivers. What seems like one harmless fish can become thousands over time. Destroying habitats and the loss of millions of native fish for that one pet fish.”

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His concerns come as the Queensland Government strengthens its frontline response to invasive species across the state, with additional biosecurity officers being deployed across regional Queensland and an increased ranger presence across North Queensland to help protect the state's natural assets.

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For Jeff, however, protecting Hinchinbrook's waterways will require more than government resources alone.

"It's something the whole community has to be aware of," he said.

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"If we all do the right thing, we've got a better chance of protecting the native fish that belong here."

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"It's about everyone understanding what's at stake," he said.

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One of the more surprising places tilapia are turning up is inside local prawn farms.

Jeff recently spoke with a worker responsible for water management at one of Cardwell's prawn farms, who described the number of tilapia appearing in production ponds as "unbelievable".

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Interestingly, the fish are not considered a major threat to prawn production.

"They're algae eaters," Jeff explained.

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"They're not there eating the prawns. They're feeding on algae growing in the ponds."

While farm filtration systems prevent fish escaping back into surrounding waterways, their presence demonstrates just how widespread tilapia have become throughout the region.

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Perhaps the strongest message Jeff hopes people take away is that many invasive species begin with people trying to do what they think is the right thing.

He imagines a family moving house, unsure what to do with a child's pet fish.

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"They think, 'We'll let it go in the creek.'"

"It seems harmless, but that's how these things start."

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He believes aquarium owners should never release unwanted fish into local waterways, no matter the species.

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"That information should be given to everyone who buys aquarium fish," he said.

"When you don't want it anymore, don't let it go."

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Know The Rules

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If you catch a tilapia in Queensland:

Do not release it back into the water.
Humanely destroy the fish immediately.
Do not use it as bait.
Do not move it to another waterway.
Dispose of it by burying it away from the waterway or placing it in a rubbish bin.
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How To Identify A Tilapia

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While several species exist, tilapia share some distinctive features:

A deep, laterally compressed body.
One long, continuous dorsal fin running almost the full length of the back.
Dark bars, blotches or spots depending on the species.
Commonly found in slow-flowing creeks, drains, dams, rivers and tidal estuaries.
Able to survive in both fresh and brackish water.
As Jeff sees it, the battle against tilapia won't be won with a single fishing competition or government program.

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"Once they're established, they're almost impossible to remove. The best thing we can do now is stop them spreading any further."

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Mrs Maryjane Masina of St Rita's School Babinda was named Teacher of the Year at the 2026 Docemus Awards. Photo source: St Rita's School, Babinda

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St Rita's School, Babinda, has been busy celebrating after one of its own was named Primary Teacher of the Year at the prestigious 2026 Docemus Awards held over the weekend.

Mrs Maryjane Masina received the honour during Catholic Education Week after being selected from nine nominees in the Primary School Teacher category at the ceremony hosted by St Mary’s Catholic College in Cairns.

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Since its inception in 2002, the Docemus Awards, meaning "to teach", have recognised the outstanding commitment, achievements and contributions of staff, volunteers and supporters across Catholic education.

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Held annually, the awards celebrate excellence across seven categories, including Primary Teacher, Secondary Teacher, Early Career Teacher, Leadership, School Officer, Volunteer and Lifelong Contribution.

Sharing the news on social media, St Rita's School congratulated Mrs Masina on the achievement.

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"Congratulations Mrs Maryjane Masina. We are so proud. Teacher of the Year 2026. So well deserved," the school wrote.

As part of the award, recipients receive a professional development grant to support their continued growth and excellence in education.

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Cassowary Coast Regional Council has secured $5.1 million to support future residential development at Coquette Point. Photo supplied

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The Cassowary Coast is set to benefit from a $5.1 million State Government investment to help unlock future residential development at Coquette Point through the second round of the Residential Activation Fund.

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The funding will deliver essential trunk infrastructure, including a new water pump station, a 4.75-kilometre water main and associated works, paving the way for future housing in the region.

The project forms part of the Queensland Government's Residential Activation Fund, which invests in the roads, water and sewerage infrastructure needed before new residential developments can proceed.

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The Coquette Point project is one of two Far North Queensland initiatives announced under Round 2 of the fund, with a total of $9.6 million allocated across the region. The program has now unlocked capacity for more than 100,000 homes across Queensland in less than 18 months.

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Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jarrod Bleijie said the fund was removing key barriers to increasing housing supply.

"The Residential Activation Fund is pulling every lever to increase housing supply because you can't build homes without the roads, water and sewerage infrastructure to support them," Mr Bleijie said.

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"The Residential Activation Fund has now unlocked more than 100,000 homes across Queensland, demonstrating exactly what's possible when government partners with councils, landowners and developers to remove barriers to housing."

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Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa said the investment would support the region's future growth.

"Communities across the Far North need more homes, and that starts with investing in the essential infrastructure that makes new housing possible," Mr Chiesa said.

"The Crisafulli Government is delivering the critical water infrastructure needed at Coquette Point to unlock future residential development and support the Cassowary Coast's continued growth."

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"We're investing in the infrastructure our communities need to create more housing opportunities for Queenslanders."

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Cassowary Coast Regional Council Mayor Teresa Millwood welcomed the funding, describing it as a significant step towards unlocking new residential land.

"By supporting the delivery of essential trunk infrastructure, this funding will help unlock land for future residential development and provide more housing opportunities for our growing community," Mayor Millwood said.

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"We thank the Queensland Government for recognising the importance of infrastructure-led housing growth in the Cassowary Coast."

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"This funding will enable Council to advance the trunk infrastructure needed to open up Coquette Point, support new development and give greater confidence to landowners, developers and future residents."

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Across the first two rounds of the Residential Activation Fund, the Queensland Government has committed almost $117 million to 23 projects across Far North Queensland, unlocking capacity for more than 3,280 new homes. The Coquette Point project is among the first rural and remote Queensland projects announced under Round 2.

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Environmental restoration projects are continuing across Mission Beach, including works to restore Jingu Creek and improve the health of surrounding coastal ecosystems. Photo source: Shutterstock

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$100,000 has been dedicated to restoration of Jingu Creek; a small waterway in Mission Beach damaged during the 2025 North and Far North Tropical Low.

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Running from the Wet Tropics to the coast, Jingu Creek was among several waterways significantly impacted by the disaster, which affected Queensland between 29th January and 28th February 2025. The funding will enable the council to remove inorganic debris from the creek, restore surrounding habitat, improve water quality and support the long-term recovery of the waterway's ecosystem following the natural disaster.

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As per the funding application guidelines, the restoration of Jingu Creek must be completed by 31st March 2027.  

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Jingu Creek’s recent restoration exists as one of several environmental recovery projects underway across the region, aimed at repairing waterways damaged by recent flooding and severe weather while protecting local ecosystems and improving water quality entering the Great Barrier Reef.

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The project was funded through the Queensland Government's Environmental Recovery and Stewardship Grants Program, which has also dedicated $9,990 to Community for Coastal and Cassowary to undertake environmental clean-up and weed control works along the Mission Beach Foreshore.

Stunning View Beach Mission Beach Cassowary Stock Photo 607262039 | Shutterstock

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Lions Club of Tully recently visited Normanton’s Gulf Christian College as part of the Lions Children's Vision Screening Program. Photo supplied  

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The Lions Club of Tully is continuing its long tradition of community service by helping protect the eyesight of local children through the Lions Children's Vision Screening Program.

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As part of the Australia-wide initiative, club members have been visiting local primary schools to conduct free vision screenings, helping identify potential eye conditions that may otherwise go unnoticed during a child's early years.

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The program is designed to detect vision issues before they begin affecting a child's learning, development and everyday life, allowing families to seek further assessment and treatment if required.

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Lions Club of Tully Secretary Irene Braddick said supporting the local community had always been at the heart of the club's mission, with children's eye health becoming one of its many valued community initiatives.

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Members also support programs including childhood cancer research, eye health, children's mobility, wellbeing initiatives and assistance dogs.

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Commemorative Cake in celebration of the huge milestone. Photo Supplied  

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The Tully Tyson Masonic Lodge celebrated their centenary over the weekend along with the installation of new master; Jordan Villaruz.  

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The Freemasons are a diverse group of men from all walks of life, with different backgrounds and religions. At the heart of the group, they look to support one another and to help their communities prosper.  

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The Freemasons in Tully held their first meeting in a private house in 1925. A lodge room was found and approved by the District Grand Master in February 1926. 30 years later, the lodge had grown so much that members proposed a second lodge. Thus Tully’s ‘Daughter Lodge’ was consecrated in 1957 and named Mt Tyson. In 1989 the two lodges eventually merged together to become Tully Tyson Lodge.  

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Today, the Tully Tyson Masonic Lodge are active within the community where they host mostly raffles and BBQ’s. They host public events like the ANZAC Day service supported by local schools and the air cadets.  

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Club secretary Alf Macdonald was delighted with the turnout for the evening’s proceedings.  

“There were 73 present including Tully Tyson members. We are looking forward to a great year [and] we have a new member.”  

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The group welcome visiting brethren from all recognised constitutions and enquiries from new prospective members.  

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Q. Mayor, two rounds of grant funding are now open - can you update us on that?
Community Programs and Initiatives Round 1 and Community Infrastructure Program are now open!
If you’re a community member or from a local community group, up to $30,000 is available for projects, initiatives, events or infrastructure improvements.
Apply on our website or call us; grants close on 28th August.

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Q. Council has recently secured $5.1 million - can you tell us more about that?
Yes, that’s right! $5.1 million has been secured to deliver critical water infrastructure that will support future residential development at Coquette Point.
The funding will deliver a new water pump station, a 4.75-kilometre water main and associated infrastructure, improving water security for existing residents
while providing the essential services needed to unlock future housing opportunities in the area.

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Q. Could you tell us what the Youth Advisory Committee is about?
Of course! The Youth Advisory Committee is a fantastic opportunity for young people aged 15 to 24 across the Cassowary Coast to have their voices heard
and help shape the future of our region. We’re looking for three members each from Innisfail, Tully, Mission Beach, and Cardwell to share their ideas, advise Council on youth issues, and work with us on creating a region where young people want to live, work, and stay.
Expressions of Interest are open now and close on 16th August. Visit yoursay.cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au
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Q. Could you tell us more about community feedback on the Innisfail CBD Waterfront revitalisation project?
Yes, the Innisfail CBD Waterfront Precinct community consultation is live, and we encourage everyone to have their say

The consultation focuses on revitalising the riverfront and public spaces in Innisfail’s town centre, based on the 2023 Masterplan.
We’re seeking community input to help guide future planning and potential funding. This consultation closes on the 10h of August.
Your input is vital; please visit our website to get involved.
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Q.Mayor, the Etty Bay Bridge is now complete!
Yes, Council has now finished construction of the Etty Bay bridge upgrade. It is now open for two-lane traffic.
I want to thank the on-ground team, project team and contractors, who did their best throughout the wet season to complete this work.
A reminder to our community to take care when driving to Etty Bay, home to our beautiful cassowaries. Please drive slowly, stay alert, and watch for wildlife.
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Q. It's shorebird season! Please tell us about that!
That’s right, it’s shorebird season on the Cassowary Coast!
Shorebirds need to conserve their energy. When disturbed, they are forced to fly away, using valuable energy needed for migration, feeding and breeding. Please keep your dog on a leash when visiting beaches, unless you are in a designated off-leash area. If you see birds gathered on the beach, give them plenty of space and avoid
walking or driving through flocks. By respecting wildlife and following beach regulations, we can all help protect these remarkable birds and the unique natural environment that makes the Cassowary Coast so special.
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We've also launched our new Shorebird and Sea Turtle Monitoring Program, with 18 volunteers attending the first training session. If you are wanting to get involved, go to Council’s website and type in Shorebirds. Or call Council on 1300 763 903

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A close-up of a honeybee covered in varroa mites. Photo sourced: Shutterstock

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Local and visiting beekeepers, along with anyone interested in protecting Australia's honey bee population, are invited to a free information session in Ingham this August focusing on one of the industry's biggest emerging threats: the Varroa mite.

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Hosted by the Townsville District Beekeepers Association Inc. (TDBAI), the workshop will feature a presentation and live demonstration of a Varroa Controller machine, along with a range of other methods available to help monitor and manage the destructive pest.

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Varroa mite is now well established in South East Queensland and has devastated bee hives in parts of Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria. The tiny parasitic mite feeds on developing and adult bees, weakening colonies by spreading viruses and reducing their ability to survive. Left unmanaged, infestations can lead to the collapse of entire hives, posing significant challenges for beekeepers and industries that rely on honeybees for pollination.

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The TDBAI recently secured grant funding to take the Varroa Controller machine on a regional education tour. Following successful workshops in Townsville, the Burdekin, Charters Towers and the Whitsundays, the Ingham session will continue the initiative by providing practical demonstrations and expert advice closer to home.

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Organisers say the workshop is open to everyone, not just members of beekeeping clubs, making it an ideal opportunity for hobbyists, commercial apiarists and anyone curious about the importance of protecting honeybees to attend. A light lunch will be provided, to register and for catering purposes, RSVP by emailing

‍info@beesnorth.com.au

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WHAT: Varroa Mite Management Demonstration
WHEN: Sunday, August 9, 2026, 9:30am
WHERE: Herbert River RSL, Hawkins Street, Ingham

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The fibreglass runabout and JJ made it safely back to Dungeness. Photo credit: QF-14 Coast Guard

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Two locals took their recently serviced fibreglass runabout for a cruise up the Hinchinbrook Channel this week but only got as far as Haycock Island before the motor gave up the ghost. A quick call to Lucinda Coast Guard was made before they dropped anchor and waited for help.

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A crew of two volunteers launched our secondary vessel, JJ, and headed over the bar on a dropping tide, well aware of the need to get back over it before they ran out of water.

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After a 10-minute trip, the distressed vessel was sighted, a towline attached, and the return journey commenced.

Both vessels made it safely back over the sandbar and returned to the ramp at Dungeness without incident.

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Any time you head out on the water, things can, and often do, go wrong. A fully charged phone and our Bat-phone number (0429 778 110) are essential to have with you.

Stay safe on the water.

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(With thanks to the QF-14 Coast Guard and Commander Steve Whipps)

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Council says do not dispose of any form of wipes by flushing down the toilet. Image sourced: Pexels

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Hinchinbrook Shire Council are alerting the community to a recent increase in “flushable” wipes causing blockages throughout the sewer network and operational issues at Council's Sewerage Treatment Plant.

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Council said that while some products are marketed as "flushable", many wipes do not break down in the same way as toilet paper once they enter the sewer system. Instead, they can accumulate in pipes, pumps and treatment equipment, leading to costly blockages and damage to essential infrastructure.

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The resulting issues can increase maintenance and repair costs, disrupt wastewater treatment operations and, in some cases, contribute to sewer overflows.

Residents and businesses are being asked to dispose of all wipes in the rubbish bin rather than flushing them. This includes baby wipes, cleaning wipes, disinfectant wipes, make-up wipes and personal hygiene wipes, regardless of whether they are labelled as flushable.

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Council said placing wipes in the bin instead of the toilet is a simple step that can help protect the region's wastewater infrastructure, reduce maintenance costs and support the reliable operation of the sewer network.

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Council thanked the community for its ongoing cooperation in helping maintain a safe, efficient and reliable sewerage system for the Hinchinbrook Shire.

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In 2025, 1Wing also celebrated its 75ths, this photo shows those who attended the Freedom of Entry Parade. Photo credit: Simone Lennox

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Since The Formation Of No. 3 Flight AIRTC INGHAM, QUEENSLAND

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103 Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets is proud to celebrate its 75th Anniversary in 2026, marking seventy-five years of service, leadership development and community involvement in the Hinchinbrook region.

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The squadron traces its origins to No. 3 Flight, Air Training Corps (AIRTC), which was officially formed in Ingham on 7 August 1951. What began as a small Air Training Corps flight has evolved over the decades into the modern 103 Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets.

Historical records from The History of North Queensland Squadron Air Training Corps by Flight Lieutenant Allan D. Wakeham reveal that No. 3 Flight AIRTC was established through the efforts of members of the Halifax Aero Club, local community leaders and Royal Australian Air Force personnel who recognised the value of providing aviation and leadership opportunities to local young people.

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The inaugural Flight Commander was Flight Lieutenant Reid Johnson, a respected local businessman and wartime navigator, who commanded the flight from its formation in 1951 until 1970. The original flight consisted of 21 cadets from across the district, many travelling from surrounding communities to attend parade nights and training activities.

Throughout its history, the squadron has played an important role in developing young people through leadership training, aviation education, fieldcraft, teamwork, citizenship and community service.  

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Generations of cadets have benefited from the opportunities provided by the organisation, with many former members going on to serve in the Australian Defence Force, emergency services and leadership roles within their communities.

The squadron has witnessed significant change over its seventy-five-year history, adapting to evolving training methods, organisational reforms and the changing needs of young Australians while maintaining its commitment to developing character, resilience and leadership.

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As part of the anniversary celebrations, 103 Squadron has introduced a commemorative 75th Anniversary emblem recognising both its origins as No. 3 Flight AIRTC and its continued service to the Ingham and Hinchinbrook communities. The design incorporates the iconic Huey helicopter long associated with the squadron and acknowledges the rich history of the unit.

A 75th Anniversary Dinner is also planned for Saturday the 5th September 2026 at the Herbert River Sub Branch RSL. The event will provide an opportunity for former and current cadets, staff, volunteers, families and supporters to reconnect, share memories and celebrate the achievements of the squadron over the past seventy-five years.

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"For 75 years, 103 Squadron has been developing young people from across the Hinchinbrook region. This anniversary provides an opportunity to recognise the dedication of the cadets, staff, volunteers and supporters who have contributed to the squadron's success and ensured its continued service to the community."

The squadron encourages former members and community supporters to share photographs, memorabilia and stories from their time with No. 3 Flight AIRTC and 103 Squadron as part of the anniversary celebrations.

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From its beginnings as No. 3 Flight AIRTC in 1951 to the Australian Air Force Cadets squadron it is today, 103 Squadron remains committed to developing the next generation of young Australians through challenge, opportunity and service.

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Key Milestones

7 August 1951 – No. 3 Flight AIRTC established in Ingham

1951 – Original intake of 21 cadets enrolled

1971 – Construction commenced on facilities at the current airfield location

1977 – Re-establishment and rebuilding of the cadet movement following national changes

1982 – Females were able to join the AIRTC, with the first female cadet to join at Ingham in November 1982

2001 – The Air Training Corps evolved and change its name to the Australian Air Force Cadets

2026 – 75th Anniversary of No.3 Flight AIRTC and 103 Squadron  

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About 103 Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets

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The 103 Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets is based in Ingham, Queensland, and forms part of the Australian Air Force Cadets. Since 1951, the unit has provided aviation focused youth development opportunities through leadership training, fieldcraft, community service, teamwork and adventure-based activities.

(Contributed with thanks by Corporal (AAFC) Simone Lennox of the c103 SQN AAFC)

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WHAT: 75th Anniversary Dinner 2026 of the 103 Sqn

WHEN: Saturday, 5th September, 2026
WHERE: Herbert River RSL.

For details and invite please email erin.cross@airforcecadets.gov.au

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All food business licence holders are reminded that current licences are due to expire at the end of August. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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Hinchinbrook Shire Council is reminding all food business licence holders that current licences are due to expire on Monday 31^st August.

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Renewal application forms have been emailed to licence holders, with businesses encouraged to complete and submit their applications before the expiry date to ensure they remain licensed and compliant.

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Council is urging any licence holder who has not received their renewal form to get in touch as soon as possible to avoid delays in processing their renewal.

Businesses requiring further information or a replacement renewal form can contact Hinchinbrook Shire Council by emailing council@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au or calling the customer service centre on (07) 4776 4600.

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At Tec-NQ, students build friendships and gain experience through working towards their trade skill. Photo supplied: Tec-NQ

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For students from regional and remote Queensland, choosing a senior school pathway can often mean looking beyond what is available locally.

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At Tec-NQ in Townsville, students in Years 10 to 12 can complete their senior schooling while building practical trade skills, gaining industry exposure and preparing for apprenticeships, employment, further training or future study.

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For students like Brandon Pope, that pathway has opened the door to new opportunities.

Brandon moved from Mount Isa to Townsville to attend Tec-NQ and boards at Tec-NQ House while completing his senior studies. Now a Year 12 Automotive student, he has completed work experience in truck repairs and has already been offered work for after school.

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“I found a job, signed up, and I’m good to go when I graduate,” he said.

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Tec-NQ House plays an important role for families outside Townsville, providing access to Tec-NQ’s trade-focused senior school while students live in a supervised boarding environment.

Located in Rosslea, Tec-NQ House supports regional and remote students with routine, supervision, daily transport to the Douglas campus and support as they build independence away from home.

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For parents and carers, this means students can access a specialised senior school pathway without losing the structure and care they need during their final years of school.

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Tec-NQ is an accredited senior school and Registered Training Organisation. Its model brings senior schooling, practical trade training, work placement and industry connection together, giving students a hands-on way to learn and a clearer view of where their education can lead.

At the Douglas campus, academic subjects are connected to industry, workshops form part of the everyday learning environment, and students have opportunities to build confidence in practical settings.

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Students work toward their Queensland Certificate of Education, learn from registered teachers and trade-qualified facilitators, and are supported by student wellbeing, boarding and industry teams.

For Charlie Cobb, a Year 12 Automotive student from Chillagoe, the Tec-NQ pathway has also helped create a practical start in industry. After boarding for much of his schooling, Charlie has built experience through casual work and signed into an apprenticeship.

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“If you’re thinking of doing a trade, this is your best start,” he said.

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Stories like Brandon’s and Charlie’s show how Tec-NQ can support students who are ready for a senior school environment with a stronger connection to work, industry and future direction.

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Families interested in learning more will have the opportunity to see Tec-NQ in action at Campus Open Day on Saturday 22nd August.

The event will give prospective students, parents and community members the chance to tour the workshops, meet staff, speak with industry partners and learn more about Senior School, Tec-NQ House, work placement and Full Time Training pathways.

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For regional families considering boarding and senior school options for 2027, Open Day is a chance to understand how Tec-NQ connects the steps from school to work.

Families who are unable to attend in person can also speak with Tec-NQ’s enrolments team to learn more about senior school options, boarding, entry points and the pathway from learning to work.

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For students ready to learn differently and build a future beyond the classroom, Tec-NQ offers a practical, supported pathway with real direction.

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Make sure bins are facing the correct way and are well spaced apart for collection. Photo sourced: Hinchinbrook Shire Council

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Hinchinbrook Shire Council is reminding residents to ensure their bins are correctly presented for collection, warning that bins may not be serviced if they cannot be collected safely.

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To avoid missed collections, residents are encouraged to place their bins out the night before, or before 5.30am on collection day. Bins should be positioned on flat ground near the kerb with the handles facing the property and at least one metre clear of parked vehicles, trees, power poles, signs and other obstacles. Where multiple bins are presented, they should be spaced at least half a metre apart.

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Council also advises that bins should not be overloaded or contain items protruding from the top, as the lid must be able to close completely. Hoses, ropes, cords and leads should be cut into lengths of less than one metre before being placed in the bin to prevent them from becoming tangled in collection machinery.

Residents are also reminded to ensure only accepted recyclable materials are placed in recycling bins to help prevent contamination and improve recycling outcomes.

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Council said following these simple steps helps collection crews work safely and efficiently while reducing the likelihood of bins being missed on collection day.

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For more information about waste and recycling services, visit Council's website www.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au/water-waste-and-roads/waste-and-recycling or contact Hinchinbrook Shire Council customer service centre on (07) 4776 4600.

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Today, I would like to remind you of the importance of completing the Census forms for you and your family.

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The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) will conduct the national Census of Population 2026 on Tuesday, 11 August 2026.

Distribution of the Census forms within Hinchinbrook has already commenced.

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As you may be aware, the Census is the primary source of population data used by the Federal Government to determine the allocation of Financial Assistance Grants to the Australian states and territories. Each state's share of the Australian Government funding pool is calculated on population, making the accuracy of ABS population data critically important to ensuring Queensland (and hence the local governments within Queensland) receives its fair share of this funding.

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Local government grants commissions in each state and the Northern Territory recommend the distribution of funding under the Financial Assistance Grant Program to local councils in accordance with the Act and the National Principles for Allocating Grants. The Financial Assistance Grants provide funding for schools, hospitals, roads, and public transport, and also cater for local needs such as supporting community groups and local programs.

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The Financial Assistance Grant Program consists of two components:

• A general purpose component, which is distributed between the states and territories according to population (i.e. on a per capita basis); and

• An identified local road component, which is distributed between the states and territories according to fixed historical shares.

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Both components of the grant are untied in the hands of local government, allowing councils to spend the grants according to local priorities.

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First and foremost, completing your Census return is a legal obligation, but it is also important because it ensures that, as a community, we access the appropriate financial resources from the Federal Government to fund local services.

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AI, or Artificial Intelligence, particularly in the workplace, is becoming an increasingly used form of technology to improve efficiencies in day-to-day tasks. Whilst AI can be a wonderful addition to assist employers and employees, it should remain just that; it is a tool to assist, not to replace human interaction and oversight.

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Hinchinbrook Shire Council has been one of the first councils to implement the use of AI, recently integrating a chatbot named “Herbie” on our website to help residents and interested website users navigate and find answers to most Council-related questions, such as, “What day of the week is bin collection in Trebonne?”, or more complex questions such as, “What are the building requirements to install a swimming pool?”  

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Soon, Herbie may be integrated into the call centre to assist and direct callers to the correct department or provide answers to Council-related questions.

Users will, and do, have the option to request to speak with staff should they not wish to interact with Herbie, which is a great and practical use of AI in the workplace.

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As this technology evolves, we must remain abreast of its potential overuse or misuse, not only in the workplace but in our everyday lives. I am no technology expert, but truth be known, AI is already being used by most of us, often unknowingly, simply by searching on our phones or the internet. It is the security of the data that AI records, and its potential misuse by those collecting it, that we must remain fully aware of.

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On another note, the upcoming Census to be held in August will hopefully reveal some fresh new data for the Hinchinbrook Shire, including, hopefully, confirmation of an increase in our population numbers.  

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This data, once released, will be most helpful and will assist our Shire in lobbying State and Federal Governments, as well as developers and investors, to attract and invest in our growing Shire.

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

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Wayde Chiesa MP and Steve Whipps Commander of the QF-14 Lucinda Coast Guard. Photo credit: Wayde Chiesa MP’s offices

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Wayde Chiesa MP, Member for Hinchinbrook

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Last week marked Rural Fire Service Queensland Week, a time to recognise the incredible contributions our Rural Fire Service volunteers make right here in Hinchinbrook and across Queensland. As someone who sees their commitment firsthand, I want to start this column acknowledging these men and women whose selflessness keeps our communities safe.

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Our rural fire brigades are made up of people who step forward to serve their neighbours, often balancing their volunteering with work, family and everything else life brings. To all our Rural Fire Service volunteers across Hinchinbrook, thank you for the time, commitment and service you give to our communities. Your contribution is valued not just during Rural Fire Brigade Week, but all year round.

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I have also recently been to Brisbane for Parliament's Estimates hearings. Estimates are an important part of my role as your local Member, providing an opportunity to ask questions about the delivery of the Budget and ensure the priorities of regional communities like ours remain front and centre. I had the opportunity to question the Premier on the proposed changes to Commonwealth disaster recovery funding, along with issues including crime, housing, cost of living, healthcare and Port Hinchinbrook. I also questioned the Treasurer and Ministers about delivering better healthcare, helping more Queenslanders into their first home and supporting our critical minerals industry. I'll continue working to ensure the issues that matter to Hinchinbrook are heard now that we have seat at the government.

Last week also marks 12 months of Jack’s Law. Across the Townsville District, police have scanned 14,141 people and seized 166 weapons, helping keep dangerous weapons off our streets and making our communities safer.

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Back home, it was great to get along to the Tully Show and catch up with locals while enjoying everything the show had to offer. Our regional shows are an important part of the calendar, bringing together agriculture, local businesses, families and community organisations, and it is always fantastic to see the community get behind them.

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Local tourism operators and businesses are encouraged to explore the Queensland Government's Regional Tourism Infrastructure Fund (RTIF), which provides grants for projects that enhance visitor experiences, attract more tourists, support local jobs and boost regional economies. Round two has just opened.

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Whether I’m in Parliament or out and about across our electorate, the best part of this role is hearing from locals like you. If there’s anything you’d like to share or bring to my attention, please don’t hesitate to get in touch at hinchinbrook@parliament.qld.gov.au

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By Mary Brown, President of the Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Tourism

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The cooler months not only signal the commencement of the sugar cane harvest season and all the business activity it brings, they also mark peak of tourism and events season in the Hinchinbrook Shire.

The Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Tourism continues to receive feedback from local businesses, with many reporting and increase in visitor numbers throughout the region.  The past weeks have been particularly encouraging, as the Shire experienced the economic benefits generated by the highly successful International Legends of League event.  

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The event attracted strong crowds from both locals and visitors, creating a vibrant atmosphere across the district and delivering a welcome boost to accommodation providers, cafes, restaurants, pubs, retailers and other local businesses.

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The Chamber’s monthly “Markets at the Mosaic” also recorded strong attendance Visitor data collected during the July event that showed that more than 60 per cent of attendees travelled from outside the Hinchinbrook district, reinforcing the growing reputation of the markets as a drawcard for visitors.  

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Adding to the strong weekend activities was an increase in caravans and motorhomes utilising local caravan and RV parks throughout July. This steady growth in drive tourism reflets the region’s appeal to travellers seeking authentic regional experiences while exploring North Queensland.

The combined impact of these activities provides a significant boost to the local economy, with increased spending flowing through hospitality, fuel outlets, supermarkets, specialty retailers and other service providers. These flow-on benefits demonstrate the important roles tourism and community events play in supporting local businesses and strengthening the regional economy.  

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The Chamber acknowledges and sincerely thanks the many events organisers, volunteers, stallholders, sponsors and local businesses whose dedication make weekends such as these, a success that flows throughout the community. Their commitment to delivering high-quality events continues to enhance Hinchinbrook’s reputation as one of North Queensland's premier regional destinations.

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With a growing calendar of events, increasing visitor interest and continued collaboration across the community, the future is looking bright for the Hinchinbrook visitor economy. Every successful event creates opportunities for visitors to stay longer, spend locally and discover more of what our region has to offer, delivering lasting benefits for businesses and the wider community alike.

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Introducing Indigo & Ignatius, what a ruff start to life this beautiful pair had. Indigo and Ignatius were found as tiny kittens outside a supermarket, but thanks to the love and care they’ve received, they’re now ready to leave their past behind and find the forever home they deserve. After everything they've been through together, we simply don't have the heart to separate them. These best friends are looking for a forever home together, full of love, many pats and chin scratches.

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Included in adoption fee of $300 for both DESEXED, MICRO-CHIPPED, up to date VACCINATIONS, FLEA/TICK/INTESTINAL WORM treated. Check out their profile on angelpaws.com.au!

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Sex: Female & Male
Breed: Domestic Short Hair
Colour: Orange & Blue Tortoiseshell
DOB: 07/01/2026
Cat Friendly: Yes
Dog Friendly: Unsure
Kid Friendly: Unsure

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‘The nbn session will provide information for homes and businesses now eligible to upgrade to nbn Fibre to the Premises’. Photo sourced: Shutterstock

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Residents wanting to learn more about upgrading their internet connection will have the opportunity to speak directly with industry experts when nbn hosts a Community Drop-In Session in Ingham next week.

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The session will provide information for homes and businesses now eligible to upgrade to nbn Fibre to the Premises (FTTP), allowing access to faster and more reliable broadband services. Representatives from nbn will be available throughout the day to explain the benefits of full fibre connections, including improved video calling, faster downloads, enhanced streaming and better performance across multiple connected devices.

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Nbn will be joined by Telstra at the event, with both organisations available to answer questions and provide information relevant to their services.

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The free session is open to all residents and businesses, with locals encouraged to drop in at any time throughout the day to learn more about the latest connectivity options available in the region.

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WHAT: NBN and Telstra Community Drop-In Session

WHEN: Wednesday, August 5^th, 9.30am to 3.30pm

WHERE: Woolworths Car Park, Ingham

Sponsored by the Lions Club of Tully, assistance dog Tully has completed her training with Lions Assistance Dogs and will soon begin supporting her future owner. Photo supplied

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The Lions Club of Tully is making a lasting difference beyond the Cassowary Coast through its sponsorship of an assistance dog that is now preparing to transform the life of someone living with mental health challenges.

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Labradoodle Tully, named in honour of the local community, has recently completed her training with Lions Assistance Dogs and is expected to be matched with her recipient this month after more than a year of dedicated preparation.

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Sponsored by the Lions Club of Tully, Tully has been trained as a Psychiatric Assistance Dog, learning a range of specialised tasks designed to support someone living with a psychosocial disability. Among her skills are recognising signs of anxiety, responding with calming behaviours, seeking help from others when required and assisting her future owner in everyday life.

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Trainer James said Tully had made remarkable progress throughout her training.

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"Tully has been working incredibly hard, and we've been focusing on balancing her task work with plenty of settling sessions in between," he said.

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"She's picked up new tasks almost immediately and absolutely loves working with people. It's been wonderful to watch her grow, and I know she's ready to change her recipient's life in the best way possible."

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Client Services Coordinator Marcello thanked the Lions Club of Tully for its ongoing support throughout Tully's journey.

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"We truly couldn't do this without you, and I know Tully would thank you too if she could," he said.

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Lions Club of Tully regularly fundraises for organisations like the Childhood Cancer Research Foundation. Photo supplied  

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Over the course of more than five decades, the Lions Club of Tully has quietly helped shape the local community, with its members dedicating countless volunteer hours to projects that have left a lasting mark across the Cassowary Coast.

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Chartered in May 1971, the club first met at the Railway Refreshment Rooms before later calling the Isaac Henry Restaurant, Hotel Tully and, more recently, the Mount Tyson Hotel and Mirrors Restaurant home. While meeting venues have changed over the decades, the club's commitment to serving the community has remained constant.

In its 55-year history, Lions Club of Tully members have rolled up their sleeves to deliver countless projects across the region. From constructing parks, shelters and community facilities to supporting hospitals, schools and local organisations, the club's legacy is one of service, generosity and community spirit.

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Among its many achievements are the construction of Lions Pioneer Park and facilities at Hull Heads, the establishment of the Warrami Station Rodeo, support for Tully Hospital through equipment and infrastructure upgrades, and years of community fundraising, catering and environmental projects.

Lions Club of Tully has also played a vital role in supporting the region during times of hardship, helping families recover after Cyclones Larry and Yasi by assisting with clean-up efforts, sourcing caravans for displaced residents and distributing vouchers for essential household items and generator fuel.

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"Our local community is our first and foremost to support in any which ways we can," Lions Club of Tully Secretary Irene Braddick said.

"Lions Club of Tully is about making great friends with like-minded people who want to serve their community, and communities, like ours, are very lucky to have lots of service groups in the area all working for the same cause."

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With a group of passionate volunteers spearheading efforts across the region, the club continues to support the community through initiatives including the Lions Children's Vision Screening Program, Youth of the Year, community catering, Christmas fundraising events and local projects. In the past, the club has also supported assistance dogs, childhood cancer research and youth exchange programs, continuing its long tradition of service to the region.  

"We are always looking for new members to join our happy little club," Ms Braddick said.

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Ms Braddick warmly invites anyone interested in giving back to the community to attend a Lions Club of Tully meeting and learn more about the organisation's work. Meetings are held on the second and fourth Monday of each month from 6:30pm at the Mount Tyson Hotel. For more information, email tullylions@gmail.com or call 0422 013 387.

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What: Lions Club of Tully Meet Up

When: Monday, 10th August, 6:30pm

Where: Mount Tyson Hotel, 23 Butler Street, Tully

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Map of the reporting zones. Image sourced: wettropicswaterways.org.au

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Ongoing efforts by landholders, community groups and industry are continuing to make a positive difference to waterway health across the Wet Tropics, with the latest report card showing conditions remain steady despite increasing climate pressures.

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The Wet Tropics Waterway Health Report Card found waterways across the region continue to achieve "good" to "moderate" health, reflecting years of work to improve land management, restore riparian vegetation and reduce sediment and nutrient runoff.

Wet Tropics Waterways Chair Dr Simon Costanzo said the results highlighted the value of collective action across the region.

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"Across the region, people are taking action — improving farming practices, restoring riparian vegetation and participating in clean-up and rehabilitation projects — and together it's making a difference."

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Queensland Environment and Tourism Minister Andrew Powell said the findings reinforced the importance of ongoing partnerships between communities, industry and government.

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"Nobody loves the Reef more than Queenslanders, and these results are encouraging because they show the positive impact of practical, on-ground action to improve and protect water quality," Minister Powell said.

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"The findings reinforce why the Crisafulli Government is investing a record $330.5 million to improve Great Barrier Reef water quality and support action across Reef catchments, because healthy waterways are essential to a healthy Reef and to protecting these natural assets for future generations."

The report card is released annually by Wet Tropics Waterways and draws on independent scientific monitoring from multiple organisations to assess the long-term health of rivers, estuaries and coastal waters.

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The latest findings demonstrate that while climate pressures continue to pose challenges, ongoing community action is helping protect the waterways that are vital to both local communities and the Great Barrier Reef.

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More detailed information about the Wet Tropics Waterway Health Report Card and results can be found at wettropicswaterways.org.au/wet-tropics-report-card

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(Contributed with thanks by Terrain NRM)

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Motorists encouraged to stay vigilant as escaped cow sightings increase. Photo source: Shutterstock

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Motorists across the Cassowary Coast are being urged to remain vigilant following a rise in reports of cattle wandering onto local roads, creating a serious safety risk for drivers.

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Residents have taken to social media in recent weeks to warn others after several cattle were spotted on busy roads throughout the region. One post last week reported a white cow standing in the middle of Lower Tully Road at night, with several motorists confirming they had encountered the animal as late as 10:30pm. Drivers described the experience as frightening, particularly given the limited visibility at night, while others said they had narrowly avoided collisions with cattle on multiple occasions when rounding corners on local roads.

Additional sightings have also been reported along Tully Heads Road, Tully Hull Road and sections of the Bruce Highway, prompting renewed calls for motorists to exercise extra caution, especially when travelling after dark. Some residents noted that livestock on roads is a common occurrence in rural areas, including around Georgetown and Croydon, highlighting the need for drivers to remain alert whenever travelling through farming districts.

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The Queensland Government reminds motorists to slow down in areas where livestock or wildlife may be present, obey warning signs and scan the road ahead for potential hazards. If an animal is on the roadway, drivers should carefully assess the situation and take the safest possible action to avoid placing themselves or other road users at risk.

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Anyone who strikes an animal or comes across an injured or distressed animal is encouraged to contact the RSPCA on 1300 ANIMAL (1300 264 625). Motorists can find more information about safely sharing the road with wildlife and livestock on the Queensland Government's transport website www.qld.gov.au/transport/saftey/rules.

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Tully Support Centre Inc has received $9,840 through the Queensland Government's Empowering Queensland Women grants program. Photo source: Tully Support Centre Inc

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Women across the Cassowary Coast are set to benefit from two locally delivered initiatives following the latest round of the Queensland Government's Empowering Queensland Women grants program.

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Cardwell UFO Festival Inc and Tully Support Centre Inc are among 30 community organisations to receive funding through Round 2 of the program, which has distributed almost $280,000 statewide to support women's economic security, financial confidence and employment opportunities.

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Cardwell UFO Festival Inc has been awarded $10,000 to deliver its From Culture to Commerce: Indigenous Women's Tourism Product Development Program.  

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The initiative will support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women and girls in the Cardwell region to develop tourism-ready products and build creative enterprise skills that can generate income. Participants will explore topics including cultural art creation, storytelling for commercial products, tourism trends, photographing and digitising artwork, designing gift lines, pricing and packaging products, and social media and online selling.

Meanwhile, Tully Support Centre Inc has secured $9,840 for its Independence and Empowerment Workshops, which will be delivered across Tully, Cardwell, Mission Beach and Kurrimine Beach.

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The workshops are designed to support women and girls who have experienced domestic and family violence and/or sexual violence, covering topics including financial health, planning and empowerment, threats and fraud, and personal growth and safety. The program aims to provide participants with the knowledge, skills and confidence to overcome isolation, exploitation and the impacts of domestic and family violence.

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Minister for Women and Women's Economic Security Fiona Simpson said the Empowering Queensland Women grants support community-led programs that help women build financial capability, develop new skills and connect with employment opportunities.

“The Round 2 recipients will deliver projects which support a wide range of women. We recognise that women face differing challenges depending on where they live or their personal circumstances or their cultural background – but these supported initiatives aim to help them overcome barriers to economic participation,” Minister Simpson said.

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The Government has invested almost $280,000 through Round 2 of the program, with grants of up to $10,000 awarded to community organisations across Queensland. For the Cassowary Coast, the funding will provide practical support for women through opportunities to develop businesses, strengthen financial literacy and build confidence, ensuring more women are equipped to participate fully in their communities and local economies.

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Cassowary Coast Regional Council is calling on community groups and eligible residents to apply for funding through two grant programs designed to support local projects, events and infrastructure improvements.

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Applications are now open for the Community Grants and Support Program and the Community Infrastructure Grants Program, with submissions closing on Friday, 28th August.

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Together, the programs aim to help deliver projects that create lasting social, cultural, environmental and economic benefits across the Cassowary Coast.

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The Community Grants and Support Program has $120,000 available during the 2026–27 financial year, split across two funding rounds. Grants of up to $2,000 are available for minor community projects without the need for a co-contribution, while major projects can receive between $2,001 and $7,500, with a 10 per cent in-kind or financial contribution required.

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Council is also offering $225,000 through the Community Infrastructure Grants Program, which supports the development, renewal and enhancement of community facilities that provide a public benefit. Minor infrastructure projects can receive up to $5,000, while major projects are eligible for between $5,001 and $30,000, subject to co-contribution requirements.

Funded projects are expected to align with Council's 2025–2030 Integrated Corporate and Operational Plan by strengthening community resilience, supporting infrastructure, encouraging social inclusion, promoting health and wellbeing, and protecting the natural environment.

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Mayor Teresa Millwood encouraged eligible organisations and community members to take advantage of the opportunity.

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"These grants help bring local ideas to life, whether that’s through community events, wellbeing initiatives, environmental projects, infrastructure improvements or programs that build stronger social connections," Mayor Millwood said.

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"By investing in projects that strengthen resilience, encourage inclusion and support community wellbeing, we are helping to build a stronger future for the Cassowary Coast."

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Applications must be submitted through Council's SmartyGrants portal and will be assessed before recommendations are presented at the September 2026 Local Government Meeting.

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Preparations are well underway for this August’s Cassowary Coast Business Bazaar. Photo source: Cassowary Coast Business Women's Network Inc.

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The Mission Beach Village Green will come alive on Thursday 20th August, as the Cassowary Coast Business Women's Network Inc. hosts its inaugural Business Bazaar; a festival-style evening designed to celebrate the region's vibrant business community.

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Set to run from 4:30pm to 9pm, the free event will transform the Village Green into a bustling marketplace where residents and visitors can shop, dine, network and discover the incredible range of products and services available across the Cassowary Coast.

Alongside the Village Green's permanent traders, businesses from across the region will set up pop-up stalls, demonstrations and displays, giving attendees the chance to meet the faces behind local enterprises and learn more about what they offer.

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Live music from Alisa Q will create a relaxed atmosphere while local restaurants, cafés and shops remain open for late-night trading, encouraging guests to make an evening of it by browsing, enjoying dinner and supporting local businesses.

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The event will feature everything from health and wellbeing providers, travel specialists and real estate professionals to artists, retailers, celebrants, tradespeople and technology experts. Visitors can enjoy mini massages, fitness demonstrations, exclusive event specials, giveaways, raffles and opportunities to chat directly with business owners. Businesses already confirmed include Mission Beach Dive, Plenty Restaurant, Shanti Café, Helen Wiltshire Gallery, Remedy Natural Health, Tropical Property, Red Sky Travel, COSCA Innisfail, In Balance Health, Mind and Body Reformed, Ozzie Oilers, nbn, HDevolution and many more. Pop-up stallholders are also encouraged to participate, with spaces available for $50.

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Businesses wishing to book a pop-up stall or anyone seeking more information can email bookings@ccbwn.org.au or visit trybooking.com/DNAUQ.

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What: Cassowary Coast Business Bazaar

When: Thursday 20th August, 4:30pm-9pm

Where: Mission Beach Village Green, Mission Beach

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Award-winning wildlife artist Daryl Dickson uses her intricate paintings to celebrate Australia's unique wildlife and inspire conservation. Photo supplied

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Award-winning artist, author and conservationist Daryl Dickson has spent more than two decades combining her passion for art with a lifelong commitment to protecting Australia's unique wildlife. Currently living with her husband at Mungarru Lodge Sanctuary in Far North Queensland, she’s surrounded by the ancient rainforest and remarkable native species that have become the heart of both her life and her work.

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“It’s the tropical landscapes, the magnificent forests and the amazing wildlife that has shaped my art and our lives,” Ms Dickson said.

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Sharing her home on the traditional lands of the Girramay People with some of Australia's rarest and most threatened species, including the endangered mahogany glider, has profoundly influenced Ms Dickson’s artistic journey, and years spent rescuing and rehabilitating native wildlife have also given her an extraordinary opportunity to study many elusive animals up close, allowing her to capture them with remarkable precision.

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“I really do live and breathe wildlife – it occupies so much of my life, it’s an inspiration for my art, it’s what fills my quiet hours, and what brings me joy – it really has been such an exceptional privilege to live in this landscape and share it with such stunning creatures,” she enthused.

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“The opportunity to observe these rare and beautiful creatures informs every detail of my work – it’s such a rare privilege and for an artist who paints in fine detail it has been wonderful. I had never dreamed that I could be so lucky.”

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Ms Dickson's original works are held in private collections across Australia, Europe and the United States. An accomplished author and illustrator, she has published the acclaimed coffee table book Celebrating Australia's Magnificent Wildlife – The Art of Daryl Dickson and illustrated several children's books celebrating native fauna. For her, art is not only a creative pursuit but also a powerful tool for conservation.

“Art is a brilliant way to engage not only people who love wildlife, but also people who just enjoy art – it’s an opportunity to share information about endangered species and their conservation in a gentle way,” said Ms Dickson.

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“I hope it inspires adults and children to love and value wildlife and wild places and also brings focus to little known species like our mahogany glider.  

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“There’s a quote I read sometime ago that says ‘what we don’t know we can’t love, and what we don’t love we won’t protect’ – this is the case for our little known gliders and many other species.”

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Ms Dickson’s contribution to both art and conservation has earned widespread recognition, including the prestigious Wet Tropics Cassowary Award for Art, the William T. Cooper Conservation Award, Cassowary Coast Citizen of the Year, and numerousfirst-place honours at art exhibitions throughout Queensland.

Beyond the easel, Ms Dickson remains deeply committed to protecting the region she calls home. She is President of the Wildlife Queensland Cassowary Coast–Hinchinbrook branch and a long-time member of the Mahogany Glider Recovery Team, using both her conservation work and her artwork to encourage a greater appreciation of Australia's unique wildlife.

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“My husband and I share this wonderful life, wildlife and our arts business on the Cassowary Coast. Life is busy and rich, and we owe a debt to this place for all it has gifted to our lives and work in the last three decades,” she said.

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“Sharing our love of this place, in any way we can, is the aim of all we do here. It is too precious to lose.”

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Wayde Chiesa MP with Ingham SES new recruits 2026. Photo supplied  

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The 2026-27 Queensland SES Support Grant Program is set to strengthen preparedness across the Hinchinbrook, through projects that aim to make sure local SES volunteers are ready to leap into action the moment disaster strikes and to support our community through recovery afterwards, whether it’s storms, floods, cyclones, or search and rescue operations.  

Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa said this investment is a major boost for our local SES volunteers and for everyone who calls our community home.  

“Our SES volunteers are always there when our community needs them most, and this investment is about making sure they have the facilities and equipment they need to do their job safely and effectively,” Mr Chiesa said.  

“The command building, vehicle replacement and facility upgrades will strengthen the capability of the Halifax, Ingham and Rollingstone SES Units and help volunteers continue their incredible work protecting local families during emergencies.  

As part of the funding, the Halifax SES Unit will receive $142,874 for a new command building, while the Ingham SES Unit will receive $71,871 to replace operational vehicles.  

Mayor of Hinchinbrook Council and chair of the Hinchinbrook Local Disaster Management Group, Ramon Jayo, said the funding would strengthen the capability of SES volunteers in Hinchinbrook and support a more effective response during emergencies.  

“This funding will help ensure our SES volunteers have access to the facilities and equipment they need to respond safely and effectively when our community needs them most,” Mayor Jayo said.  

“The proposed upgrades to the Halifax command building and the replacement vehicle for the Ingham unit are practical investments that will support emergency response operations and strengthen local disaster preparedness across the Hinchinbrook Shire.”  

The Rollingstone SES Unit will also benefit from $27,782 in facility upgrades, with the funding through Townsville City Council.  

The investment forms part of the State Government's statewide commitment to strengthen SES capability, with 35 projects funded across Queensland and an additional 12 priority SES vehicles fast-tracked for replacement.  

Queensland SES Acting Chief Officer Danny Baade said the funding would improve the safety and operational capability of SES volunteers across Queensland.  

“It’s vital that our members are supported in disaster preparedness and response," Mr Baade said.    

“Whether it’s floods, cyclones, or search and rescues, this funding will allow our units to be equipped to help Queenslanders when they need it most.”  

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Project details:  

Recipient: Hinchinbrook Shire Council  

SES Unit: Halifax  

Project: Command building  

Funding: $142,874  

Recipient: Hinchinbrook Shire Council  

SES Unit: Ingham  

Project: Vehicle replacement  

Funding: $71,871  

Recipient: Townsville City Council  

SES Unit: Rollingstone  

Project: Facility upgrades  

Funding: $27,782

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Volunteer firefighters across the Cassowary Coast were recognised during Rural Fire Service Queensland Week. Photo source: Queensland Fire Department

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Volunteer firefighters across the Cassowary Coast were recognised for their dedication during Rural Fire Service Queensland (RFSQ) Week 2026, with a Far North brigade taking out one of the service's highest regional honours.

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The Killaloe Rural Primary Producer Brigade, near Port Douglas, has been named the Northern Region Brigade of the Year, recognising its outstanding commitment to emergency response, disaster preparedness and community service.

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Rural Fire Service Queensland Week, held from 26th July to 1st August, celebrates the more than 27,000 volunteers who help communities across the State prepare for, respond to and recover from emergencies.

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The Queensland Government also used the week to recognise the contribution of volunteer firefighters through continued investment in new appliances, brigade stations, equipment and facility upgrades. More than a dozen new firefighting vehicles werehanded over to brigades during the week, building on the delivery of more than 100 new appliances across Queensland last financial year.

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Minister for Fire, Disaster Recovery and Volunteers Ann Leahy said Rural Fire Service Queensland Week was an opportunity to thank volunteers for the vital role they play in protecting communities.

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"Our volunteer firefighters are there when Queenslanders need them most, giving their time to help protect lives, property and communities across the State," Minister Leahy said.

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"The Government is backing our volunteer firefighters with the new trucks, new brigade stations, upgraded facilities and equipment they need to respond safely and effectively.”

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Queensland Fire Department Commissioner Steve Smith said the work of Rural Fire Service Queensland volunteers extended well beyond emergency incidents.

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"The work of our RFSQ volunteers is truly outstanding. They are not only protecting life and property during emergencies but also turning up to training nights, preparedness meetings and community events," Commissioner Smith said.

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"They are the friendly faces their neighbours can count on to help them stay informed, prepared and educated."

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For the last three years, Olsen Industrial Electrics has been operating out of South Mission Beach and is quickly building their reputation as the areas go-to specialists for complex industrial electrical works.  

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The business is family owned and operated with technical expert Brad Olsen an RPEQ certified electrician leading the engineering side whilst wife Angela Olsen runs the AC Hydro Wash operations.  

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Their two young children Astrid & Axel might not be old enough to be on the tools just yet but Brad says ‘they’re the heart of the business’. Keeping the business family focused whilst also having job satisfaction is the best of both worlds.  

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Their skillset is way beyond standard electrical work as they specialise in large scale industrial systems. Not only do they repair broken systems but they can also create design and install bespoke systems.  

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‘There’s no limitations on us; we do all your in house engineering, the drawings, motor rebuilds, pump wet ends rebuilds, design, install, servicing and maintenance’  

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The team have also welcomed onboard Jack Hogan who is 6 months into his apprenticeship and is valued member of the team.  

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Known for tackling jobs that no one else can, Olsen Electrical understand the pressure’s local businesses face when machinery breaks down. Working in a rural setting it’s important to get up and running as quickly as possible. Wether it’s a banana packing line, irrigation system, switchboards or other crucial farming equipment Olsen Electrical will act fast to keep your business moving.  

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Enquiries can be made to Olsen Electrical on 0427 070 285 or send them an email to sales@olsenelectrical.com  

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Council contractors are scheduled to commence works on the Ernest Street footpath upgrade project on Monday 3^rd August, weather permitting. Photo source: Cassowary Coast Regional Council

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A major upgrade to Ernest Street in Innisfail will get underway next month, with works aimed at improving safety, accessibility and the overall appearance of the town centre.

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Construction is scheduled to begin on Monday 3rd August, weather permitting, and will see the existing footpath replaced with a new exposed aggregate concrete surface. New streetscape planting and landscaping will also be added as part of the project to enhance the look and feel of the Innisfail CBD.

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The project is expected to be completed by mid-December and will be carried out in stages to minimise disruption.

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Throughout construction, businesses will remain open and pedestrian access will be maintained, with the community encouraged to continue supporting local traders.

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Temporary traffic management, pedestrian detours, construction noise and changes to roadside parking can be expected as works progress. Short-term parking zones will also be introduced at various stages to help maintain customer access and deliveries.

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Council said property access and essential services, including power, water and telecommunications, are expected to remain available throughout the project, with advance notice provided if any temporary interruptions are required.

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Cassowary Coast Mums Club Collective founder Tahlia Morrison says the group's mission of connecting local mothers will continue, despite the organisation's closure. Photo source: Mums Club Collective

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Just seven months after its inception, the Cassowary Coast Mums Club Collective (MCC) has announced it will close as a not-for-profit organisation, marking the end of a much-loved initiative that has brought local mothers together through friendship, support and shared experiences.

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MCC’s founder and local mother of three Tahlia Morrison said the decision had been a difficult one, with the growing administrative demands of operating a not-for-profit prompting her to reassess the group's future.

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"It really wasn't an easy decision and honestly, I've probably been thinking about it for a lot longer than people realise," Tahlia said.

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Established in January 2026, MCC was born from Tahlia’s own experience of navigating motherhood in a regional community. After returning to the Cassowary Coast, she identified a gap in opportunities for local mothers to connect and set out to create a welcoming space where women could find friendship and a sense of belonging.

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"Mums Club started because I saw a need," she said.

"I was a mum in a regional area, I knew how isolating motherhood could feel and I wanted to create something that made it a little easier for mums to find their people."

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What began as a small community initiative quickly evolved into a thriving network of mothers from across the Cassowary Coast. Through regular catch-ups and events, MCC provided a supportive environment for women navigating the joys and challenges of motherhood, leaving a lasting impact on many families throughout the region.

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While the collective will no longer operate in its current form, Tahlia said its mission is far from over, confirming the popular Coffee Catch Ups will continue on the second and fourth Thursday of each month from 9:30am at Castaways Bar & Grill in Mission Beach, offering a simple and sustainable way for local mothers to stay connected.

"The heart of Mums Club was always connecting mums, creating friendships and making motherhood feel a little less lonely and I don't think that needs to end just because the organisation is wrapping up," Tahlia said.

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"At the end of the day, Mums Club was never really about being a not-for-profit organisation. It was always about mums having somewhere to go, and I'm actually really excited about stripping it back to what it was always about and finding a way to keep that going in a simpler, more sustainable way."

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Although the organisation's chapter may be coming to an end, the connections it created and the community it fostered are set to endure, with Tahlia expressing heartfelt gratitude to the mothers who embraced the collective and the many individuals who supported it throughout its journey.

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"I hope everyone who was part of Mums Club knows that it mattered," she said.

"It mattered to me, and I know it mattered to a lot of mums who came through the doors."

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Despite the difficult decision to close the organisation, Tahlia said she remains immensely proud of what the collective achieved and the connections the group was able to fuse within the community in just seven months.

“We weren’t changing the world, but we were creating little pockets of connection for mums who might otherwise have spent the day feeling pretty lonely, and I think that’s actually really important,” she said.

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"The organisation might be wrapping up, but the reason we started it in the first place isn't going anywhere. Mums still need connection, friendship and somewhere they can show up exactly as they are. So, we'll keep doing that, just in a simpler way."

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Draft illustration of proposed Innisfail CBD Waterfront precinct. Image source: Cassowary Coast Regional Council

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Cassowary Coast Regional Council is inviting the community to have its say on the future of the Innisfail Waterfront precinct, with planning underway to guide the area's long-term redevelopment.

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The project aims to ensure the precinct remains safe, functional and suitable for both community and marine use, while building on the vision outlined in the Innisfail CBD Revitalisation Master Plan.

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With existing marine infrastructure and community assets nearing the end of their intended lifespan, Council says the renewal presents a unique opportunity to reimagine the waterfront as a vibrant destination for residents and visitors alike.

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Planning is centred around six key themes, including revitalising the waterfront, enhancing the tropical landscape, improving accessibility and connectivity, celebrating Innisfail's culture and heritage, encouraging tourism, and creating an inclusive community space.

As part of the consultation, Council is seeking feedback on a range of potential future uses, including recreational fishing and boating facilities, visitor accommodation, tourism opportunities and the possible inclusion of a water play area.

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No decisions have been made, with community feedback set to play an important role in informing future planning, which would be delivered in stages and remain subject to funding, approvals and further consultation.

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Mayor Teresa Millwood said the project represented an exciting opportunity for the region.

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"The opportunity to revitalise and restore life into the Waterfront precinct is an exciting time for Innisfail and its surrounding communities,” she said.

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"As part of the Innisfail CBD Revitalisation Master Plan, enhancing the river's attractiveness provides the potential to become the drawcard for the city, placing Innisfail in a stronger position to attract future funding and economic growth.

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"With a focus on balancing commercial operations, recreational activities and tourism, the proposed development of the Waterfront precinct will become a place of community pride and connectivity."

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Community consultation is open until Monday 10th August, with residents able to provide feedback online, via paper surveys or at upcoming engagement events.

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The State of the Region Roadshow panel saw speakers from telecommunications services, economists, and industry specialists. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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Community leaders, businesses and residents gathered at the Ingham Powerhouse on Tuesday 21^st July for the State of the Region Roadshow, with speakers highlighting Hinchinbrook's strong economic foundations and future growth potential.

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Presented by Regional Development Australia (RDA) Townsville and North West Queensland in partnership with the Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Tourism, the event featured independent economic insights from Regional Economic Advisory Principal Economist Matthew Kelly.

According to RDA Townsville and North West Queensland, the presentation highlighted a region with a strong industry base, desirable lifestyle and significant potential for continued growth, while encouraging discussion around the opportunities ahead for the Hinchinbrook community.

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Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Tourism President Mary Brown said one of the most encouraging aspects of the evening was seeing official data confirm trends many locals had already observed.

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"Personally, the most encouraging information coming out of the roadshow was the economic trend data provided by economist Matt Kelly, with data continuing to show pleasing population growth trends in Hinchinbrook Shire," Mary said.

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"Whilst those of us living and working in this space on the ground have been seeing this trend and receiving anecdotal advice of these positive changes over the past 10 years, it is very heartening to see the official data now reflecting this trend."

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Mary said the presentations reinforced her confidence in the region's future.

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"Listening to all the presentations, it reinforced my long-held belief that despite some of the short-term challenges that impact our community over the years, the Hinchinbrook Shire is well placed for a very optimistic future, that will be achieved when those who are prepared to invest in that future are supported by strong political leadership and favourable policy decisions that support regional communities."

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RDA Townsville and North West Queensland thanked Hinchinbrook Shire Council for welcoming the roadshow, the Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Tourism for hosting the community session, Deputy Mayor Mary Brown for her support, and the panel members and community members who contributed to the discussion.

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Residents interested in exploring local employment opportunities can visit Jobs Townsville North Queensland and discover what Hinchinbrook has to offer www.jobsnorthqueensland.com.au

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The new Cell 4, which is now operational, will provide the additional capacity needed to continue delivery of essential services in the Hinchinbrook Shire. Photo supplied: Hinchinbrook Shire Council

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A $2.8 million investment in the Warrens Hill Landfill and Resource Recovery Centre has now been completed.

The new Cell 4, which is now operational, includes a modern, multi-layer liner system designed to protect surrounding land and groundwater while meeting Queensland's strict environmental standards.

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Mayor Ramon Jayo said the project was completed at a critical time, with landfill capacity becoming increasingly limited.

"As landfill capacity tightened, Council officers moved quickly to identify practical, safe and environmentally responsible solutions to ensure waste services could continue without interruption for the community," Mayor Jayo said.

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"The completion of Cell 4 gives Council additional capacity and provides certainty that residents, businesses and visitors can continue to access reliable waste disposal services while Council plans for the Shire’s long-term waste management needs."

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With Cell 4 now operational, Council's focus will turn to the development of a long-term Waste Strategy.

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"The Waste Strategy will guide future planning and investment, helping ensure waste services continue to meet the needs of Hinchinbrook community for years to come," Mayor Jayo said.

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Council thanked staff, contractors and specialist advisors who contributed to the successful delivery of the project, and invited residents to support sustainable waste management by reducing household waste, recycling correctly and making use of the waste and resource recovery services available across the Shire.

Last Tuesday, I joined six other Queensland Mayors to visit Federal Minister Kristy McBain in Melbourne to protest against the proposed changes to Disaster Relief Funding arrangements.  

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The proposed changes will essentially see a reduction in the amount of funds that the Federal Government will contribute to disaster response and recovery, to the tune of 25 per cent.

Calculated on average over the past nine years, during which we have experienced five declared events, that means a loss of $2 million per annum. That is a significant amount of money for a small council such as ours.

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Federal Minister Kristy McBain was in Melbourne attending the National Emergency Management Ministers' Meeting together with all other state emergency ministers, and we took the opportunity to ensure that all state ministers, not just those in Queensland, are aware of the severity of the issue facing Queensland as the most disaster-prone state in Australia.

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It is not fair for the level of government that receives the most taxation revenue in Australia, at 80 per cent, to slash its contribution to helping communities recover and put the burden on the states, which account for 17 per cent of all taxation revenue, or onto councils when our sector collects just three per cent.

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And when there is less money coming from Canberra, that means local ratepayers will carry more of the burden, with less money available for other critical programs. Premier David Crisafulli has already indicated during Senate estimates that the State of Queensland is not in a position to pick up the loss of revenue for recovery programs resulting from reductions by the Federal Government.

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The other critical matter is raising the threshold for when disaster relief kicks in. At the moment, relief kicks in when the costs to respond to and recover from a disaster exceed $240,000.  

Under the new arrangements, federal funding will not be activated until costs exceed $2.7 million. This alone will leave small communities such as ours without critical support.

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It is, however, pleasing to note that in Queensland we do have bipartisan support against the proposed changes, with both the State Government and the State Opposition publicly opposing the changes.

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Apart from the initial clean-up and repairs to our roads, one of the most visible signs of recovery after a major flood event is the return of our parks, gardens and recreational spaces. These areas are at the heart of our communities, providing places for families to gather, children to play, residents to exercise, and visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of our region.

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Sadly, the 2025 event left most of our parks and gardens needing repair. We have almost finished, with crews now working on the last of them.

The work undertaken includes more than $1.08 million in parks and public-space works, covering major repairs at Rotary Park, Ninja Park, Garbutt and Interact playgrounds, as well as exercise equipment, walking tracks, footbridges, viewing infrastructure, gardens, and the TYTO Wetlands.

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The Community and Recreational Asset Recovery Grants (CRARG) Program has provided vital disaster recovery funding to help Hinchinbrook Shire Council restore these assets.  

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This funding has given us the opportunity to maintain safe and accessible community spaces while reducing the financial burden that disaster repairs would otherwise place on Council’s limited budget and local ratepayers.

Jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, the broader CRARG program is supporting the restoration of 41 community assets across the Shire.  

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Without this funding, Council would find it very difficult to recover from a disaster situation.

Every repaired playground, refurbished park and rejuvenated garden helps strengthen a community that has, quite simply, “been through the wringer”, while also supporting the recovery and healing process.  

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Council and the community are very thankful for the assistance provided during this time and remain hopeful that the Federal Government will reconsider proposed changes to the current Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.

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The Awards saw Forrest Beach SLSC come away with multiple recognitions. Photo source: Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club

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Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club has claimed the North Barrier Branch Club of the Year title for the third consecutive year, with the achievement announced at the 90th Annual North Barrier Branch Awards of Excellence in Mackay.

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The club’s popular Beers by the Beach initiative also received the Community Engagement Award, recognising them for bringing people together while raising valuable funds to support the club's volunteer lifesavers.

Junior Activities Chair Melissa Hall was honoured, receiving the prestigious Andy Frizzell OAM Service to Junior Activities Award, acknowledging her outstanding commitment to the club's Nippers program and junior members.

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Club Captain Michael Biasi, Melissa Hall and Mariam Hall, the North Barrier Branch Membership and Community Awareness Coordinator, represented Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club at the awards ceremony and the North Barrier Branch Membership Development Conference, accepting the awards on behalf of the club.

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The club said the recognition reflected the commitment of every member, volunteer and supporter who contributes their time and effort throughout the year.

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Securing the Club of the Year title for a third year highlights the strength of Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club both on and off the beach, recognising not only its lifesaving services but also its strong focus on junior development and local engagement.

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The Lions Club of Ingham and the Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride members holding the pink underwear that is part of the Wombats group tradition. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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The Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride has officially wrapped up for 2026, with 140 riders completing the three-day journey while raising vital funds for childhood cancer research.

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The annual charity ride stopped in Ingham on day two, Thursday 23^rd July, after riders completed the first 112-kilometre stage from Townsville. The group continued north through the Hinchinbrook region before finishing the ride in Cairns on Saturday 25^th July.

Among those joining the ride this year was Townsville Mayor Nick Dametto, who returned to his hometown of Ingham as part of the Wombats riding group.

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Mayor Dametto completed the opening leg from Townsville to Ingham and said being part of the event was a proud moment.

“Yesterday I was able to join the Wombats for the first leg of the Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride, 112 kilometres yesterday from Townsville all the way to Ingham, and it just made me so proud to be a part of the group and be able to contribute in some way,” he said.

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“This charity is all about finding a way so we have a world without childhood cancers. That’s a world that I want to live in one day.”

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Ride President and rider John Masson said the Ingham stop marked another successful stage of the 26th annual event, with all seven riding groups arriving safely after a fast day on the road.

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“We had the wind behind us. It was probably one of the fastest days on the road for all the groups,” he said.

The riders were divided into seven groups, each named after an Australian animal, with groups catering for everyone speed abilities. The ride has raised more than $8 million for the Children’s Cancer Institute Australia over 26 years, supporting research into childhood cancers and treatments.

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John said one of the institute’s key projects involved analysing childhood cancers to identify genetic mutations that may respond to specific treatments.

“The goal is to reduce the mortality from childhood cancer to zero,” he said.

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“Thirty odd years ago, 80 per cent of kids died. Now only 20 per cent die, and let’s hope in another 20 years it will be near, if not zero.”

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The Ingham Lions Club has been supporting the ride for more than 20 years, joining Lions Clubs across North Queensland in supporting the riders along the route.

Member Pat Lynch said the club was proud to contribute to an event that aligned with the Lions’ commitment to supporting important causes, with the Ingham Lions Club also making an annual donation towards the fundraiser.

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For Wombats group rider and Communications Coordinator Jeanie McIntosh, the event is something she looks forward to. After participating for seven years, Jeanie said the friendships formed between riders, volunteers and the towns they visit were one of the most special parts of the experience.

“What we love about the ride is the whole community gets involved from towns along the way, the Lions, the road crew, and everyone supporting us,” she said.

“I’ve been seeing the same people for seven years, so you really miss people when you don’t see them.”

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Each riding group has developed its own traditions, with the Wombats known for their light-hearted approach, matching pink socks and team camaraderie.

One of their traditions involves a pair of pink lacy underwear, which riders must wear after being nominated for doing something silly during the ride. Even Mayor Dametto found himself taking part in the tradition.

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After three days on the road, the riders crossed the finish line in Cairns having once again pedalled in the kilometres to help create a future without childhood cancer.

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This year’s ride aimed to raise $300,000, with the current total sitting at $260,000 following the conclusion of the event. Community members can still support the cause through the Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride fundraising page: www.tcbr.org.au/event/tcbr-2026/donate

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Queenslanders are being urged to remain vigilant and report any sick or dead wild birds after the state's first suspected case of H5 high pathogenicity avian influenza (bird flu) was detected.

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The suspected case was identified in a deceased petrel that washed ashore on Moreton Island. Initial testing has returned a suspected positive result, with samples now undergoing further testing at the CSIRO's Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness for final confirmation.

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There have been no detections of the virus in native birds or poultry in Queensland, and there is no evidence of large-scale deaths among animals. The Queensland Government said the risk to human health remains unchanged and reassured the public that it is safe to continue eating chicken meat and eggs.

The announcement comes as at least one Hinchinbrook resident has already taken precautions, reporting a washed-up dead bird found about one kilometre north of the Forrest Beach boat ramp after spotting it while out walking.

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Anyone who sees sick or dead birds is urged to avoid contact and report the sighting immediately to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.

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Peter Reitano of Felix Reitano Real Estate. Photo supplied.

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After his family entered the Real Estate industry in the early 1990s, Peter Reitano spent decades building relationships, guiding buyers and sellers through one of life's biggest decisions.

"It has given me the chance to meet so many amazing people who have become valued clients," he said.  

"The moment that a Buyer finds a property that they love, then the Seller agrees to the price that the Buyer is comfortable with. Just the feeling that everyone is happy makes me happy."

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He believes the foundations of a great real estate agent are "politeness, honesty and ability to listen to clients and find out what they need,"

"Having lived here for my whole life I find that our town is friendly and I would like to think it is welcoming. I always do my best to greet people with a smile and welcome them."

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A lifelong local, Peter is equally passionate about the community he calls home.

"That as an Agent I have dealt with contracts hundreds of times -if not a thousand- in my life and that I realise this might be the first time they have ever done it," Peter said.  

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"I do my best to guide them through the steps as best I can to find their dream home or land to build their home on (...) or the Seller to give them the best possible service, They have most likely spent a lot of time putting loving touches to their homes and we want to get the best for them."

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It's an approach that reflects Peter's understanding that every property journey is different, even so, his focus always remains dedicated to his clients and achieving the best possible outcome for them.

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Artist Rose Knight with her piece, Flower Power, currently on display at the Mission Beach Community Arts Centre's Inspirations Exhibition. Photo source: Mission Beach Community Arts Centre

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An artist with a passion for reimagining landscapes, deliberately disassembling, rearranging and stripping away the clutter to reveal what remains in the head and the heart, Rose Knight has spent decades capturing the beauty often seen only in our peripheral vision.  

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Originally from Mornington Peninsula, Rose now resides in Far North Queensland, and her distinctive works have been showcased in galleries across the country, including the Cassowary Coast’s own Mission Beach Community Arts Centre.

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“Living in Far North Queensland has not only cemented my love of the ocean but has given me closer access to the outback and its salt-of-the-earth people that I admire so much,” she said.

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Rose first picked up a paintbrush in 2000, discovering an artistic calling that would soon become a lifelong passion. In 2003, she took the next step in her creative journey, joining a painting group under the guidance of acclaimed artist Terrence John Hadler, and just two years after that, she held her first gallery exhibition, marking the beginning of an accomplished career that continues to evolve today.

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With a deep appreciation for the beauty that surrounds her, Rose draws inspiration from the diverse landscapes and striking contrasts found across the country. Her creative process often begins with a simple photograph, capturing a fleeting moment or scene, before transforming it into something truly evocative upon returning to her studio.

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“I focus on what captured my attention and imagination initially – the essence of the place [and] by leaving out what clutters the mind, and leaving the viewer room to fill in the gaps creates an effect something similar to recalling a dream that’s just beyond the consciousness,” Rose said.

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Strongly drawn to the coast time and time again, Ms Knight frequently travels from her home in the Tablelands to soak up the sea breeze and salty air of Mission Beach; a place she lovingly describes as her “happy place.”

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“Mission Beach, with its nostalgic boho vibes, is a huge inspiration to me. It echoes of the bygone days in places like Byron Bay and Port Douglas before they became tourist franchises,” she said.

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Over nearly three decades, Rose’s connection to the natural world has inspired her to pursue a wide range of artistic disciplines, from fossicking, lapidary work and jewellery making to painting and sculpture. Though her creative practice continues to evolve, her work consistently reflects both her inner landscape and her enduring relationship with the land.

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“I feel that my work has evolved and simplified overtime yet has amplified in its simplicity – less detail allows more energetic brushwork, and it’s my hope that energy remains locked into the painting to be felt by the viewer,” she said.

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“I’m compelled to create, to paint. It brings me great joy when I hear someone who views my work comment “it reminds me of my…” [as] that tells me that it has spoken to them.”  

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Currently on display at the Mission Beach Community Arts Centre’s Inspirations Exhibition, Rose’s piece, Flower Power, encapsulates the vibrant energy and unmistakable charm of Mission Beach, reflecting the emotions and memories the coastal haven continues to inspire.

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Yolanda Jenkins, Justin Brennan, Jade Croft, and Britney Anastasi. Photo supplied

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Education, empowerment and community support took centre stage at the Cassowary Coast Business Women's Network's July event, with attendees hearing firsthand from two organisations making a meaningful difference across the region.

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Representatives from the Vocational Partnerships Group (VPG) and Innisfail Youth & Family Care shared their stories, shining a light on the services, opportunities and support available to Cassowary Coast residents.

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Justin Brennan and Jade Croft from VPG spoke about the success of the Cassowary Coast University Centre (CCUC), which has supported 184 students since opening less than two years ago.

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Located above the Cassowary Coast Regional Council Library on Rankin Street in Innisfail, the CCUC is helping to break down barriers to education by enabling students to undertake tertiary and vocational studies locally while accessing the resources and support of universities and training organisations from across Australia.

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With travel, relocation and the rising cost of living often preventing people from pursuing further education, the centre's mission to "Grow Our Own" is helping locals achieve their study and career goals without leaving the region.

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The VPG team provides guidance every step of the way, helping students navigate course options, enrolment processes and study pathways, while also offering a welcoming space where they can learn, connect and continue earning an income close to home. For more information about the Cassowary Coast University Centre, contact 4091 6411 or email ccuc@vpginc.com.au.

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The evening's second presentation was delivered by Anita Laksa, Britney Hoddle and Jess Mizzi from Innisfail Youth & Family Care, an organisation dedicated to "Achieving Better Futures" through local care, support, accommodation and opportunities for young people, familiesand individuals.

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Guests gained a greater appreciation for the breadth of services delivered across the Cassowary Coast, including homelessness response, youth support programs, domestic and family violence services, emergency relief and housing assistance.

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The presentation not only highlighted the challenges faced by many in the community, but also the important role individuals can play in supporting those in need through donations, advocacy and raising awareness.

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By the end of the evening, one message was clear: the Cassowary Coast is home to passionate organisations committed to strengthening communities, creating opportunities and ensuring residents have the support they need to thrive.

Terrain NRM's new Reefwise Farming program will support sugarcane growers across the Cassowary Coast to improve farm productivity while helping protect the Great Barrier Reef through more efficient nutrient management practices. Photo source: Shutterstock

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Sugarcane growers across the Cassowary Coast will receive support to boost productivity while reducing nutrient runoff into the Great Barrier Reef through a new $7.5 million farming initiative.

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Terrain NRM has secured Australian Government funding for the two-and-a-half-year Reefwise Farming project, which will assist growers across more than 6,700 hectares from Cairns to Ingham to improve fertiliser efficiency and strengthen crop disease and pest management.

The program will have a strong focus on the Innisfail and Tully districts, where extension officers will work one-on-one with growers to develop or update nutrient management plans, improve soil health and identify crop constraints. Demonstration sites, field days and shed meetings will also be held, with paddock-scale water quality monitoring taking place in the Tully district.

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Terrain NRM is delivering the project in partnership with Canegrowers Innisfail, Canegrowers Herbert River, Canegrowers Cairns and Sugar Research Australia.

Terrain NRM's Jamie Thornberry said farming in the Wet Tropics required balancing productivity with environmental stewardship.

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"As a region with high rainfall and a close proximity to the reef, intensive agricultural systems will continue to be presented with unique challenges," he said.

"Farmers have come a long way in accepting these challenges as a part of doing business in the region and continuing to manage nutrient runoff, sediment and pesticides to achieve water quality outcomes."

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The project is already underway in the Innisfail district, with Canegrowers Innisfail manager Deb Telford saying local growers were seeing the benefits.

"This project is allowing us to further work with growers at an enterprise level to improve their nutrient use efficiency through improved productivity," she said.

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In the Herbert River district, growers will have access to dollar-for-dollar grants through Canegrowers Herbert River to invest in equipment and farming practices that improve efficiency and environmental outcomes.

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Canegrowers Herbert River project officer Leah Russo said the funding would help growers make lasting improvements.

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"Projects like these provide growers with valuable opportunities to invest in equipment and technologies that may otherwise be beyond their financial reach. They enable meaningful practice change and deliver long-term environmental and economic benefits."

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Funded through the Australian Government's Reef Trust as part of the Reef 2050 Long-term Sustainability Plan, the Reefwise Farming project aims to improve water quality while supporting the long-term sustainability and profitability of the region's sugar industry.

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The Mission Beach Visitor Information Centre in its new location featuring fresh sinage. Photo credit: Siân Bantock

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Cassowary Coast Tourism's Visitor Information Centre has officially begun a new chapter, relocating to the Homestead Shopping Centre, with the move prompting reflections on more than four decades of tourism history in Mission Beach.

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The Mission Beach Historical Society has congratulated Cassowary Coast Tourism on the relocation, highlighting the significant community effort that helped establish the region's first visitor information service in the mid-1980s.

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According to historical records shared by the Society and local historian Don Marsh, the original Mission Beach Tourism Information Centre was established by the Mission Beach Tourist Association from a small shop located near the present-day Mission Beach Library. Local artist Helen Wiltshire designed the organisation's logos, helping shape its identity during its formative years.

Support from the former Department of Business, Industry and Regional Development provided funding for equipment and the wages of the association's first permanent office manager, laying the foundations for the service's growth.

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As visitor numbers increased, a Wet Tropics Authority grant enabled the development of a larger, permanent tourism hub. The project saw the relocation of the former timber Mission Beach Primary School building to public foreshore land set aside by the then Johnstone Shire Council.

The grant also funded associated infrastructure, including public amenities and the C4 Centre, creating a dedicated space to welcome visitors and promote the region's natural attractions.

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"The rest, as they say, is history," Mr Marsh reflected.

Today, as the Visitor Information Centre settles into its new home at the Homestead Shopping Centre, the move serves as a reminder of the volunteers, community leaders and organisations whose efforts helped establish Mission Beach as one of Tropical North Queensland's most recognised destinations.

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Cassowary Coast Tourism's Tourism Officer, Michelle Lloyd said the new location will continue to serve not only visitors to the region, but locals keen to discover what's happening in their own backyard.

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"There's always something new happening across the Cassowary Coast, and we have different deals and information available throughout the year," she said.

"It's nice to know what's on in your own backyard."

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Michelle also encouraged community members to consider volunteering with the Visitor Information Centre.

"We're always looking for volunteers to join us," she said.

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"If you'd like to learn more about what we do, drop in and say hi to the team."

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The Visitor Information Centre's new home at the Homestead Shopping Centre is now welcoming visitors and residents alike, continuing its long-standing tradition of connecting people with the best experiences the Cassowary Coast has to offer.

Tully Falls National Park is among several Cassowary Coast protected areas expanded as part of the Queensland Government's statewide conservation initiative. Photo source: Tripadvisor  

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Several national parks across the Cassowary Coast have been expanded as part of the Queensland Government's latest investment in protected areas, including significant additions to Tully Falls National Park and Herberton Range National Park.

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More than 82,000 hectares have been added to Queensland's protected area network statewide, with the Crisafulli Government committing $111 million in the 2026-27 State Budget to support future acquisitions, conservation efforts and visitor infrastructure.

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Locally, Tully Falls National Park received an additional 2,203 hectares, while Herberton Range National Park expanded by 4,723 hectares. Smaller additions were also made to Tully Gorge National Park, Maalan National Park, Little Mulgrave National Park, Japoon National Park, Gadgarra National Park and Djiru National Park.

The investment will support the strategic acquisition of environmentally significant land while continuing practical conservation efforts including pest and weed management, fire preparedness and upgrades to visitor infrastructure across the State's protected areas.

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Statewide, the expansion includes the establishment of Dhuny Yumba (Home of the Wombat) National Park near St George, protecting critical habitat for the endangered northern hairy-nosed wombat. Since November 2024, Queensland has added more than 259,000 hectares to its protected area network.

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Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said Queenslanders expected practical action to preserve the State's natural assets.

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“Queensland is home to some of the most remarkable natural places anywhere in the world, and it’s our responsibility to protect them for the generations that follow,” Minister Powell said.

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“That’s why we’re taking a practical approach - protecting the right places, investing in looking after them properly and making sure they continue to support regional communities, local jobs and visitors for generations to come. This is about growing Queensland’s protected areas sensibly and strategically, while making sure we never lose sight of the job of caring for the places we already have.”

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The protected area investment forms part of a broader $139 million commitment over four years, including $34 million ongoing annually to grow Queensland's protected area network and enhance visitor experiences.

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With some of Far North Queensland's most treasured landscapes among those receiving additions, the announcement highlights the continued environmental significance of the Cassowary Coast and its role in Queensland's conservation future.

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Mission Beach and Dunk Island remain among the Cassowary Coast's most iconic tourism destinations. Photo source: Visit Queensland

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Tourism operators across the Cassowary Coast are being encouraged to explore a new round of State Government funding aimed at supporting Queensland's next generation of visitor attractions.

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Applications are now open for Round Two of the $80 million Tourism Icons Investment Fund, part of the Queensland Government's Destination 2045 strategy to grow the state's visitor economy through new and enhanced tourism experiences.

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The fund supports projects that showcase Queensland's unique attractions by encouraging private investment, creating local jobs and attracting more visitors, with applicants required to match government funding to help deliver lasting economic benefits for regional communities.

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Applications close on Monday, 10th August, with more information available via www.detsi.qld.gov.au.

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Cardwell is among the communities set to benefit from a share of $7.6 million in funding to restore and strengthen North Queensland coastlines impacted by the 2025 Tropical Low. Photo source: Tripadvisor

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Cardwell is among the North Queensland communities set to benefit from a share of more than $7.6 million in funding to restore and strengthen coastlines impacted by the 2025 North and Far North Tropical Low.

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The funding, delivered through the Coastline Rehabilitation Grant Program, will support 12 projects across four northern councils, with works spanning from Cardwell to Injinoo at the tip of Cape York. Jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), the program forms part of the $73 million Environmental Recovery Package aimed at helping communities recover from severe weather events while building long-term resilience.

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The projects will focus on restoring beaches and coastal areas that suffered significant erosion and damage during the 2025 Tropical Low, while also strengthening natural coastal defences to better withstand future weather events.

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Queensland Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said the investment would help preserve some of the State's most treasured coastal destinations.

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“From Cardwell to Cape York, this investment is about ensuring Queensland's coastal destinations continue to be places where people can live, work, holiday and connect with the natural environment,” he said.

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Further details on the successful projects are available on the Queensland Government's environment website via https://www.qld.gov.au/environment.

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Many enjoy the reef in various ways such as snorkelling, fishing, boating, and tourist fights to see the iconic ‘Heart of the Reef’. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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The Great Barrier Reef will not be placed on UNESCO's "in danger" list, with the World Heritage Committee recognising ongoing efforts to protect and improve the internationally significant natural asset.

The decision acknowledges continued investment by the Queensland and Australian governments to improve Reef health and water quality, including more than $2 billion committed through to 2032.

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It also follows the Queensland Government's recent announcement of a record $330.5 million investment over five years aimed at improving water quality and strengthening the Reef's long-term health.

Queensland Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell welcomed the decision, saying it recognised the efforts of Queenslanders working to protect the Reef.

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"Queenslanders care deeply about the Reef, and we welcome UNESCO's decision because it recognises the real progress being made to protect it," Mr Powell said.

"This is an important acknowledgement of the work happening right across Queensland to safeguard the Reef for future generations.

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"We know there is still more work to do, and we will keep backing practical action, guided by the best available science, to improve Reef health and strengthen our water quality efforts."

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The Great Barrier Reef supports around 77,000 jobs and contributes an estimated $9 billion annually to Australia's economy, making its long-term protection important for both the environment and regional communities.

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UNESCO's decision follows two monitoring missions, including a visit undertaken in September 2025. The next Great Barrier Reef State of Conservation report is due to UNESCO in December 2029, with a progress report scheduled for 2028.

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With sleek, jet-black fur that shimmers in the light, Marley is a beauty to behold. However, it's his charming personality that truly sets him apart. Marley is the ultimate purr machine, and his gentle vibrations will instantly soothe you the moment you cuddle up together.

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Included in adoption fee of $225 DESEXED, MICRO-CHIPPED, up to date VACCINATIONS, FLEA/TICK/INTESTINAL WORM treated.

Could Marley be the missing piece in your family?  Enquire today at: angelpawsinc.com.au/pets-for-adoption

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Sex: Male

Breed: DSH

Colour: Solid Black

DOB: 01/07/2025

Cat Friendly: Yes

Dog Friendly: Yes

Kid Friendly: Yes

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The Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre is partnered with Thread Together, bringing new clothing to people in need. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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When you hear the word homelessness, what comes to mind?

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For many people, it's someone sleeping rough on the street. But homelessness is often hidden, and it can affect people from all walks of life.

On Census night in 2021, more than 122,000 Australians were experiencing homelessness.

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Many were not sleeping on the streets. They were staying with friends or relatives, living in overcrowded housing, sleeping in cars, residing in temporary accommodation, or facing the very real possibility of losing the place they called home.

Here in the Hinchinbrook region, many people have witnessed just how challenging it has become to find safe, stable and affordable housing. Rising living costs, limited rental availability and the ongoing impacts of recent natural disasters have placed increasing pressure on individuals and families throughout our community.

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At Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre (HCSC), we are seeing more people reaching out for support because they are worried about keeping a roof over their heads. Some are struggling to find an affordable rental. Others are facing unexpected life changes such as relationship breakdown, illness, loss of employment or family violence. Every story is different, but one thing remains the same - housing insecurity can affect anyone.

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This is why Homelessness Awareness Week, held from Monday 3 August to Sunday 9 August 2026, is so important. It encourages us to look beyond the stereotypes, build understanding and compassion, and remind those experiencing housing insecurity that support is available.

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HCSC's Housing and Homelessness Services support individuals and families who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. Our team works alongside people to provide information, advocacy, referrals and practical support, helping them work towards greater housing stability, independence and hope for the future.

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Join Us During Homelessness Awareness Week

As part of Homelessness Awareness Week, Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre is proud to host a Homelessness Event, bringing together local organisations and service providers to showcase the support available within our region.

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Rebecca (Bec) of Wild Local in her fish & chip shop by the display of all their locally sourced seafood. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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Wild Local Has Sights Set On Putting Hinchinbrook On Australia's Culinary Map

Winning Queensland's 2026 Seafood Industry Take-Away Fish & Chips Award was a proud moment for Wild Local owner Rebecca (Bec) Zaghini, which represents the promise of something bigger on the horizon.

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With the business now preparing to represent Queensland as one of Australia's top three fish and chip shops at the Australian Seafood Industry Awards in Sydney on July 30^th, Bec believes the recognition belongs to an entire community.

"It was a win not just for our shop and our team here at Wild Local, but it was a win for our seafood community," she said.

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"We are nothing without the fishermen behind us who put that amazing product in the display every day."

When accepting the Queensland title earlier this year, Bec said she spoke from the heart, thanking the commercial fishers and their families whose hard work supplies fresh seafood to the region every day.

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"They're out on the water feeding our community, our visitors and our locals," she said.

Bec believes Wild Local stood out because of its commitment to serving locally caught seafood.

"We believe you deserve to know where your food comes from," she said.

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"That's why we champion sustainable fishing methods and proudly highlight our fishermen's accreditation through the Master Fishermen Accreditation Program with OceanWatch, because great seafood starts long before it reaches your plate."

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She said being based in Hinchinbrook gives the business a unique advantage, with access to fresh local seafood that many businesses elsewhere struggle to source.

"I'm talking to Darcy from Johnny's Fish Bar about how we make Ingham and Hinchinbrook a wild seafood destination," Bec said.

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"It doesn't matter if you're getting your fish and chips from Wild Local or from Johnny's Fish Bar. When you're shopping local, you're supporting our fishing families, our fishing culture and our community."

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Bec believes visitors should be encouraged to ask not only whether their seafood is Australian, but whether it was caught right here in Hinchinbrook.

"When you do that, you're really investing in our community, in jobs and in the future of our region."

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"It's not just a piece of fish on your Friday night. This is jobs. This is regional security. This is food security. This is history."

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That’s why Bec has established Wild & Fresh, a community initiative to bring together commercial fishers, seafood retailers, government and industry representatives.  

Its first major event, Spotlight on Hinchinbrook, will be held in September, welcoming delegates from across Australia for industry discussions, networking opportunities, seafood experiences and community celebrations designed to showcase everything the region has to offer.

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Bec hopes the event will pave the way for more.

"Our dream is to create a seafood festival here in 2027," she said.

While the Queensland title has placed Wild Local firmly in the national spotlight, Bec says the award is only the beginning of a much bigger journey to make Hinchinbrook synonymous with Australia's finest wild seafood.

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"The idea has been simmering away in my head for a little while," she said.

"I thought, why aren't we celebrating our seafood? We've got this amazing resource right on our doorstep."

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Bec hopes the Spotlight event will become an annual fixture and eventually grow into a major drawcard for the region. She envisions a celebration that not only showcases fresh local seafood, but also highlights Hinchinbrook's fishing heritage, local producers, live entertainment and unique tourism experiences.

"It's about creating opportunities for the next generation," she said.

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"It's about supporting our fishermen, our businesses and making sure people understand just how important this industry is."

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"It's not about businesses being competitive with each other, but how can we collaborate to lift each other up?" she said.

"If they're buying local seafood, they're supporting our fishing families."

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

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The Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) has today taken six Queensland mayors from different corners of the state to Melbourne as the sector ramps up the fight to reverse the Federal Government’s disaster funding changes that critics say mightleave communities impacted by cyclones, floods and bushfires without the full financial support needed for recovery.

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The changes include reducing the Federal Government’s contribution to disaster recovery from an average of 64 per cent down to 50 per cent, despite the Federal Government taking about 80 per cent of all taxation revenue, compared to about 17 per cent for State Governments and three per cent for councils.

The Melbourne mayoral delegation comes just weeks after delegates from the country’s 538 councils used the Australian Local Government Association’s (ALGA) National General Assembly in Canberra to call on the Federal Government to abandon its proposed changes, in a motion put forward by the Byron Shire Council in New South Wales.

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The local government leaders - who travelled a combined 16,000km one-way - discussed the proposed disaster recovering funding changes outside the Melbourne hotel where the Federal, State and Territory Ministers met.

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“Queensland councils fear these proposed funding reductions will leave communities worse off, in what is Australia’s most disaster-prone state,” LGAQ Chief Executive Officer Alison Smith said.

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“These mayors chose to travel to Melbourne to demonstrate how important it is that the Federal Government drops these proposed reforms.”

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Today, the six Queensland mayors – from Queensland’s far north, north west, south west, south east and tropical coast - described the proposed reforms as unfair.

“We all pay our taxes. Communities expect that when they need help, it should be provided. Yet when the Federal Government collects 80 per cent of all national taxation revenue, and councils collect just three per cent, the expectation is that Canberra should make the strongest contribution during natural disasters,” said Etheridge Shire Mayor Barry Hughes.

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“Instead the Commonwealth has decided it wants to slash disaster funding, and pocket more than $600 million a year across Queensland if the last disaster season is anything to go by,” said Douglas Shire Mayor Lisa Scomazzon.

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“No one wants or deserves a natural disaster. No one asks for their town to be cut off, their roads to be washed away, their main street to be flooded and covered in mud, or their food to run out or go off because the trucks can’t get through. But disaster recovery funding is like an insurance policy – you want it to pay out when a community is on its knees,” said Hinchinbrook Shire Mayor Ramon Jayo.

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“These are all the reality of living in Queensland. Locals all do what they can to survive and help each other. All we are asking is that the Commonwealth continues to come good with the current levels of funding to help out,” said Lockyer Valley Regional Council Mayor Tanya Milligan.

“Councils and mayors are standing up for what is right, what is fair. If this deal goes ahead it is nothing less than kicking Queenslanders when they are down,” said Murweh Shire Mayor Shaun ‘Zoro’ Radnedge.

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“Our current system works and needs to continue to provide the reassurance communities can rely on,” Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said.

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Queensland Reconstruction Authority (QRA) analysis of the last three years of disasters shows Queensland would receive $1.5 billion less in Commonwealth disaster relief under the proposed changes, including $638 million less in just the past year alone.

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However, the modelling shows Queensland communities would have missed out on at least $2.8 billion in Federal support if the proposed regime had been in place since 2018.

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“In the 2025-26 summer, 74 of Queensland’s 77 local government areas were disaster activated,” Ms Smith said.

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“Councils have heard the Commonwealth say that no council will be worse off under these reforms, but with the size of the funding gap that this reduction in Federal support would create, these mayors are wondering who will meet this shortfall?” LGAQ CEO Alison Smith asked.  

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Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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Lifelong Support has celebrated 50 years of supporting people with disability and their families, marking the milestone with a 50th Anniversary Cocktail Celebration on Saturday, July 18.

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The organisation's story began in 1976, when a group of parents and supporters came together to create better opportunities for their children at a time when disability services were limited.

Longtime supporter of the organisation, Nathan Henderson, was the MC and said the organisation's foundations were laid by parents who believed their sons and daughters deserved better.

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“The seeds of this organisation were planted 50 years ago,” he said.

“Those seeds weren't planted by governments or large charities. They were planted by a group of parents together with their friends and supporters who simply believed their sons and daughters deserve better.”

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Mr Henderson said the organisation had been created during a time when many families had little access to education, respite or therapy, with some travelling hundreds of kilometres to access services.

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“This wasn't because parents loved their children any less; it was because society hadn't caught up yet,” he said.

“Then a handful of parents decided enough was enough. They weren't experts or politicians. They were mums and dads, and somehow, they created lasting change in our community.”

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The celebration welcomed original parents, former clients, staff, volunteers and supporters, while recognising the organisation's history and the people who helped shape its future.

Letters and messages from throughout Lifelong Support's history were also read aloud during the evening, bringing tears to the eyes of many listeners as they reflected on the organisation's impact over five decades.

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A significant part of the celebration was recognising current CEO Elizabeth (Liz), whose long-term contribution was highlighted by one of Lifelong Support's founding parents. Liz was praised for her tireless advocacy for people with disability and her determination to challenge government departments and fight for better outcomes.

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The evening celebrated the many people who have contributed to Lifelong Support's 50-year journey and the continuing importance of its work in the community.

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See more photos here: www.hinchinbrooklife.com/social-pics/lifelong-support-celebrates-50-years-of-community-care

Forrest Beach Hotel’s exterior from the parking lot. Photo credit: Forrest Beach Seaside Resort

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After months of renovations and upgrades, the Forrest Beach Hotel has begun welcoming visitors and former patrons back through its doors.

The venue is currently in a soft-launch phase, with the bar and bottle shop now open to the public. Food services are not yet available as work continues towards the hotel's full reopening.

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The reopening marks the latest step in an extensive redevelopment of the hotel, which has undergone months of work to upgrade and refresh its facilities.

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"It's been incredibly rewarding to finally open our doors again and welcome the community back. The support we've received from locals has been overwhelming, and we're so grateful for everyone's patience while we've worked to breathe new life into the hotel. We're not finished yet, but we're excited to share what we've achieved so far and to continue building a venue the whole community can be proud of." said owner Noel Fichera.

For locals who have watched the renovations take place, the open doors offer the first opportunity to see the changes and return to a familiar community venue.

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The hotel is now welcoming visitors, old patrons and members of the community to come and see the progress for themselves while the next stages of the redevelopment continue.

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With the bar and bottle shop now operating, the Forrest Beach Hotel is gradually returning to life as work continues behind the scenes.

The venue's full offering, including food service, is expected to follow as further upgrades are completed.

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"The reopening of the bar and bottle shop is just the beginning. Our focus now is completing the restaurant renovations so we can introduce a quality dining experience that locals and visitors alike can enjoy. We know people are eager for the kitchen to open, and we're working hard to make sure it's worth the wait."

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The reopening is a significant milestone for the hotel and the wider Forrest Beach community, providing a first look at the result of months of work and investment into the local venue. They have recently rebranded online to the Forrest Beach Seaside Resort, to fully encapsulate all their facilities.

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International Legends of League and The Herbert River Crushers players together pre-game. Photo credit: International Legends of League

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It was a weekend of rugby league and plenty of star power as the Legends of League came to the Hinchinbrook Shire. From school visits and community events, to a packed day at the Ingham Bowls Club and an evening at Lee’s Hotel, the weekend gave locals the chance to meet some of the game’s biggest names. The action culminated at Artie Gofton Oval, where more than 2,500 people watched the Australian League Legends take on the Herbert River Crushers Allstars.

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A 16-ALL THRILLER IN INGHAM AS LEGENDS TAKE ON CRUSHERS

A huge weekend of rugby league has wrapped up in Ingham, with the International Legends of League event bringing NRL stars, local legends and more than 2,500 spectators to Artie Gofton Oval on Saturday night.

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The Hinchinbrook event was the 102nd Legends of League showcase, but the first time the organisation had brought its NRL legends to the region, with players taking part in community visits and activities throughout the weekend.

The weekend began with the legends visiting schools across the Hinchinbrook Shire, delivering the Dream, Believe, Achieve program and speaking with students at Trebonne, Forrest Beach, Halifax, Ingham, Toobanna and Abergowrie State Schools.

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The players also visited the Ingham Bowls Club for a bowls day, while Friday night featured a dinner at the Lees Hotel.

Saturday's main event featured junior rugby league games before the Lewie Fire Protection Australian Legends took on the DRM Plumbing FNQ Pty Ltd Herbert River Crushers Allstars.

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The star-studded Australian Legends side included the likes of Matt Bowen, Sam Thaiday, Ben Hannant, Antonio Winterstein and Alex Glenn, while the Crushers team featured local rugby league legends from across the region.

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The visitors took a 16-6 lead into the second half, but the local side fought back in a thrilling finish. Jarrod Modder, a local fan who joined the team through an auction, levelled the scores at full-time. He had the chance to win the match with the conversion, but the kick missed, leaving the game tied 16-all.

The event was proudly presented by Hinchinbrook Shire Council, supported by the Queensland Government and made possible through the efforts of the Herbert River Crushers RLFC committee, sponsors, volunteers and the wider community.

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“Footy is part of the fabric of our community, and events like this give us the chance to celebrate that while also delivering real benefits for our young people and local clubs,” Mayor Jayo said.

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Organisers thanked the more than 2,500 people who attended and supported the event, as well as the many local businesses, schools and organisations that helped make the weekend possible. Special thanks were extended to Matt Chiesa and the hard-working Herbert River Crushers RLFC committee for partnering in the event, along with all sponsors whose support helped bring the Legends of League weekend to the Hinchinbrook Shire.

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See more photos here: https://www.hinchinbrooklife.com/social-pics/international-legends-of-league-vs-the-herberts-river-crushers-all-stars

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List of notable players include:

Visiting Lewie Fire Protection Australian Legends Players

Craig Wilson

Craig Teevan

Russell Bawden

Luke Goodwin

Stu Kelly

Scott Bolton

Jaiman Lowe

Neville Costigan

Kevin Campion

Noel Goldthorpe

John Hopoate

Darren Smith

Antonio Winterstein

Alex Glenn

Ben Hannant

Matt Bowen

Sam Thaiday

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DRM Plumbing FNQ Pty Ltd Herbert River Crushers Allstars Players

Todd Cockburn

Scott Vardanega

Paul Rose

Mitchell Seri

Grant Swarbrick

Damon Cockburn

Brenden Seri

Brendan Chapman

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Sally Sedgwick-James with some of the sorted boxes of yarn. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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A simple call for yarn donations has resulted in an overwhelming response for the Forrest Beach CWA, helping the group continue its long-running efforts to create blankets, scarves and beanies for people experiencing homelessness.

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The appeal was made after the group ran out of yarn for its craft projects, with donations quickly arriving from across the region. The response has been so generous that the ladies are now taking stock of the materials they have received.

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One former Hinchinbrook Shire resident, now living in Brisbane, also rallied friends and CWA groups in her area and is expected to deliver around 190 balls of yarn to Forrest Beach next weekend.

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The CWA ladies regularly gather for craft mornings on Thursdays, where they knit and crochet items including large blankets big enough to wrap around a full-grown adult. A recent donation of blankets, scarves and beanies was delivered to the Hub for distribution to people in need.

“We sit together and knit to make these wonderful items on our Thursday craft mornings.” said CWA member Beverley Hulme, proudly showing off some of the beautiful blankets the ladies have made.

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The project will pause temporarily as the Forrest Beach CWA prepares to move to a new location on Progress Street later this year, but the generous donation from Brisbane will ensure the group has plenty of material to continue its work once settled.

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Steve and Marie Whipps were fishing when a shark took the line, “We got to the side of our boat, in an effort to get some of our gear back without having to cut the line, but it bit through 80lb braid like tissue paper, so we lost the rig.” Photo credit: Steve Whipps

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Just months after a fatal shark attack claimed the life of an experienced spearfisherman off the Hinchinbrook coast, the Queensland Government has announced a $2.4 million research project aimed at improving understanding of shark populations and strengthening future shark management across the state.

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The world-first study will examine key shark species, including bull and tiger sharks, through DNA analysis, tagging and acoustic tracking, with findings expected to help shape Queensland's Shark Control Program and improve swimmer safety.

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The announcement comes after 39-year-old Michael Jensz was fatally mauled while spearfishing at Kennedy Shoal, about 40 kilometres offshore from the Hull River Boat Ramp near Cardwell, earlier this year. Mr Jensz was diving with friends when he was attacked while attempting to retrieve a catch lodged on the reef.

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While authorities did not confirm the species involved, commercial fishers and recreational boaties have long reported regular sightings of bull and tiger sharks around offshore reef systems and deep-water drop-offs along the Hinchinbrook coastline.

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Unlike mainland swimming beaches, where shark control measures operate in many locations across Queensland, remote reef systems such as Kennedy Shoal do not have shark control equipment in place.

Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett said the research would deliver the most comprehensive understanding yet of Queensland's shark populations.

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"This is the first study of its kind for shark management in Queensland, and it will give us the most complete picture of these species we've ever had," Mr Perrett said.

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"I have said time and time again, the best science must inform our actions when it comes to fisheries [and] we're backing world-leading scientists to understand how sharks behave and how our management measures are affecting them.

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The project forms part of the Queensland Government's Shark Management Plan 2025–2029 and will be delivered in two stages. The first stage, already underway and due for completion in February 2027, will investigate the biology and genetics of key shark species to better understand how populations respond to fishing pressure and environmental change.

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A second stage, scheduled for 2028, will focus on mapping bull shark and pigeye shark populations through acoustic tracking, tagging and stable isotope analysis, providing scientists with new insights into movement patterns and breeding behaviour.

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The findings are expected to guide future shark management decisions across Queensland, including measures designed to keep beachgoers and ocean users safe while ensuring management strategies are based on the latest scientific evidence.

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Installing wildlife cameras along the creek: Chris Muriata, Girringun Rangers

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A small population of endangered mahogany gliders is living in narrow strips of forest on farmland south of Ingham. Wildlife cameras have captured mahogany gliders for two years in a row at four spots in the Bambaroo-St Helens area.

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Terrain NRM’s Evizel Seymour said the gliders were in forest along creeks where vines and woody weeds have been removed to improve its “glideability” and condition. Coupled with scientists’ findings from genetic research in recent years, it shows the critical need for more habitat restoration.

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“Mahogany gliders are only found between the Hull River near Tully and Ollera Creek north of Townsville, with an estimated total population of about 2500,’’ Evizel said.  

“The woodlands they live in are often narrow fragments of forest. To help this species, a big focus is restoring and connecting their habitat.”

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Recent genetics research by James Cook University researcher Eryn Chang found the species was retaining moderate genetic diversity despite decades of habitat loss. But it also identified inbreeding in northern parts of the mahogany glider’s habitat and researchers fear the increasing fragmented mahogany glider population could lead to serious genetic health issues.

During Terrain NRM’s recent ‘Keeping Country Connected for Mahogany Gliders’ project, crews from Hinchinbrook Shire Council removed woody weeds and vines from 15 kilometres of forest along Waterview Creek, Easter Creek and two unnamed creeks on cane farming land in the Bambaroo-St Helens area.  

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Evizel said wildlife cameras, installed twice at 30 spots along the creeks for six-week periods over two years, had led to mahogany glider detections across 15 locations.

“Of these, four locations recorded mahogany gliders during both survey periods, indicating consistent use of those areas,” she said.

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“The narrow strips of woodland are between sugar cane land and waterways and they’re close to Paluma and Halifax Bay national parks. The aim is to link more coastal patches of mahogany glider habitat to foothills in national parks via vegetated waterway areas, so there is a functional corridor for this endangered species.”

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This work follows a series of Australian and Queensland government-funded mahogany glider projects led by Terrain NRM over the past 15 years.

Mahogany Glider Recovery Team Chair Jacqui Diggins said that the multifaceted recovery teams members had strategically used their resources to improve habitat management and raise awareness of the species’ fight for survival.

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Ms Diggins said habitat connectivity remained the big issue.  

“The only north-south corridor for mahogany gliders is on the edge of national park and it’s a really narrow band of woodland abutting a steeper range that’s inaccessible to the species,’’

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“Land was historically cleared to the edge of the foothills. The forest areas that remain are progressively declining with the creep of rainforest species, woody weeds and sclerophyll making the narrow bands of habitat even less traversable for mahogany gliders.

“Mahogany gliders can glide about 30 metres. Sometimes connecting relatively small sections of land can make a huge difference. It helps these gliders to move between habitat areas for feeding and it can also help the flow of genes.”

The recent ‘Keeping Country Connected for Mahogany Gliders’ project, which ended this month, was proudly funded by the Queensland Government’s Threatened Species Recovery Action Grants program. It was delivered by Terrain NRM in partnership with Hinchinbrook Shire Council, Girringun and Nywaigi Indigenous Rangers and the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service.

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(Contributed with thanks by Terrain NRM)

Shining little Sukki, a six-year-old beauty with striking markings that make her impossible to overlook. This gorgeous girl is searching for a new family to call her own. Sukki could easily grace the cover of a dog lifestyle magazine. She has the looks, the presence, and the personality to turn heads wherever she goes.

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Sukki would prefer to be the only dog in the household, as she can be selective about her canine companions. What she may lack in dog friends, however, she more than makes up for with her unwavering loyalty and devotion to her people.

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You’ll also appreciate Sukki’s watchful nature. She’s always quick to let you know when someone is at the gate, making her an excellent guardian of her home while remaining a loving and faithful companion. If you’re looking for a loyal best friend who will stand by your side and fill your home with love, Sukki could be the perfect match.

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Could Sukki be the missing piece in your family?  Enquire today about Sukki at: angelpawsinc.com.au/pets-for-adoption

Included in adoption fee of $495 DESEXED, MICRO-CHIPPED, up to date VACCINATIONS, FLEA/TICK/INTESTINAL WORM treated and on PROHEART.

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DOB: 10/04/2021

Sex: Female

Colour: White and tan

Breed: Staffy X

Kid friendly: Yes

Cat Friendly: No

Other dogs: Selective

Fences: 6ft

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An information session for stakeholders and service providers in Ingham was hosted by selectability. Photo supplied

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Understanding local priorities helps create stronger partnerships and better outcomes for communities. Through regular engagement with community leaders and stakeholders, selectability gains valuable insights that help shape future planning and service delivery.

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Recently, General Manager Regional Development, Sally Schaefer, and Regional Coordinator Julie Ross hosted an information session for stakeholders and service providers in Ingham to discuss emerging challenges, future opportunities and ways to support wellbeing outcomes across the region.

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Sally said the discussion gave participants an opportunity to share insights, strengthen relationships and explore how services can continue to evolve to meet the changing needs of the local community.

"Strong communities are built through strong relationships and genuine collaboration," Sally said.

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"By listening to local voices and working with community partners, selectability can better understand what people need and ensure services continue to make a meaningful difference in people's lives."

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Stakeholders also received an update on selectability's ongoing commitment to the region, including a service overview, workforce capability and community partnerships that support positive outcomes for people and communities across the Hinchinbrook region.

The session highlighted the value of collaboration in strengthening community wellbeing and ensuring services remain responsive to local circumstances and emerging needs. Insights from the discussion will help inform future planning and support selectability'scontinued commitment to caring for people and communities in need across regional, rural and remote Queensland.

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To learn more about selectability's services in Ingham, visit the Canegrowers Building at 11–13 Lannercost Street to chat with Julie and the team and find out more about what services are available. Our new office hours are 8:30am – 4:30pm, Monday to Friday.  

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Due to popular demand, the Clubhouse has also extended its opening hours to allow new activities. These extended hours provide more opportunities for social connection and accessible support. The clubhouse is now open 9am – 3pm, Monday to Friday. Check out the program timetable at selectability.com.au.

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Congratulations to the Pace Family, who on Saturday celebrated a massive 90 years of farming in our region, an extraordinary achievement that marks continuous farming and clearly evidences a commitment to hard work and a drive to succeed through many a generation.

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Many stories would no doubt be told about the challenges faced along the way, including weather events and changing markets over nearly a century of farming, but throughout it all, the commitment to farming and the contribution to agriculture and food production have remained clear.

Congratulations on 90 remarkable years. Your contribution to the Hinchinbrook Shire is remarkable, and your legacy will continue to inspire for generations to come. Best wishes for the continuing farming enterprise of the Pace family.

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Congratulations also to Ingham Bowls Club for once again bringing home the Dunn Cup for 2026. The Dunn Cup is the most prestigious lawn bowls competition in North Queensland, and this year was contested by seventeen teams from communities across North Queensland. Congratulations to Ingham Bowls Club and players Dave Wells, Phil Kite, Frank Pallanza and Brad Wilson on a job well done.

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The Dunn Cup has been played since 1937, and Ingham has won on 19 occasions, making Ingham Bowls Club the most successful club in tournament history. That is certainly something to boast about and is a testament to the great talent that exists within our district. Well done, Ingham Bowls. You have made our district proud.

Just a heads up that Powerlink will shortly commence works at the Ingham Powerlink station on Skinner Street, Ingham, with upgrades to critical equipment and the installation of a new control building designed to withstand Q200 flood events.

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The Ingham South Substation is an important part of Powerlink’s 132kV transmission network, helping to supply electricity to the wider Ingham area as well as Ergon Energy’s 66kV Ingham Substation next door.

The project will be delivered in stages over a three-year period, with all works expected to be completed by November 2028. These works are necessary to ensure a safe, secure and reliable electricity supply into the future.

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The first stage of works will commence on Monday, 3^rd August 2026 and continue through to mid-December 2026. No power outages are expected as a result of the work. As some construction activities may take up to 12 hours and must continue once they start, work crews will be onsite between 6:00am and 6:00pm, Monday to Sunday. If you have any concerns, you may contact Powerlink at: (07) 4034 7600 or email nqprojects@powerlink.com.au for more information.

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Wade Chiesa MP at the Pace family 90 years celebration. Photo sourced: Wayde Chiesa MP’s Facebook page

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Wayde Chiesa MP, Member For Hinchinbrook

When I stood as your local Member at the Hinchinbrook by-election, I made a commitment to be a strong voice for our community and focus on the issues that matter most to local families.  

Congratulations to the Pace family on celebrating 90 years of farming. This is an incredible milestone and a testament to generations of hard work and dedication, and a privilege to celebrate such a remarkable legacy. It was also great to attend the Legends of the League night at Lees Hotel and welcome such a fantastic event to my hometown. It was wonderful to see so many people come together to celebrate rugby league and support our local community.  

Community safety remains one of the biggest issues people raise with me. That's why the Crisafulli Government is continuing to strengthen youth justice laws, including expanding Adult Crime, Adult Time by introducing Breach Bail, Go to Jail laws and minimum sentencing for serious repeat offenders. These reforms are about restoring community confidence and making Queensland a safer place to live.  

We're also delivering better healthcare closer to home. With both additional funding for staff accommodations and a new CT scanner for Ingham Health Service, local residents will have access to important diagnostic imaging without having to travel further afield.  

Road safety remains one of the biggest issues people raise with me. The first works towards safety improvements between Ripple Creek and Mount Cudmore Road will soon begin with land acquisitions as part of the broader Bruce Highway (Ingham–Innisfail) Ingham to Cardwell Range Safety and Resilience Package. It's another important milestone in making the Bruce Highway safer and more resilient for our communities.  

We're also making real progress on the Port Hinchinbrook Revitalisation Project. The market sounding process for the dredging works has now closed, marking another important milestone in bringing this long-awaited project to life. I'll continue to keep the community updated as we move into the next stage and work towards unlocking the full potential of Port Hinchinbrook for tourism, local businesses and our wider regional economy.  

These are the commitments I took to the people of Hinchinbrook, and they're the commitments I'll continue working every day to deliver. Thank you for your continued support and your feedback. Together, we're building a stronger future for our community.

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By Mary Brown, President of the Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Tourism

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The Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Tourism Inc. is excited to announce the return of the Hinchinbrook Festival of Events following the overwhelming success of its inaugural campaign in 2025.

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Attendance and engagement in last year's Hinchinbrook Festival of Events exceeded all expectations, bringing together a diverse calendar of events that showcased the very best of our region. From community celebrations and sporting events to arts, culture, entertainment and markets, the festival attracted thousands of attendees, increased visitation to the Hinchinbrook Shire and created a vibrant atmosphere that was felt across the entire community.

One of the most rewarding outcomes was the significant number of visitors who travelled to the region specifically to experience events featured as part of the Hinchinbrook Festival of Events. Accommodation providers, cafés, restaurants, retailers and local businesses all benefited from the increased visitor spend, demonstrating the important role events play in strengthening our local economy.

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Many events experienced record attendances, with several selling out well in advance. Event organisers received overwhelmingly positive feedback from both locals and visitors, with many commenting on the variety, quality and welcoming community spirit that Hinchinbrook offers. The success of the inaugural festival highlighted what can be achieved when community organisations, volunteers, businesses and event organisers work together towards a common goal.

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As a result of this incredible community support and the many positive comments received throughout the 2025 festival period, Chamber members have supported the proposal to host and fund the Hinchinbrook Festival of Events campaign in 2026.

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The 2026 Festival will once again celebrate everything that makes the Hinchinbrook region unique, providing opportunities to showcase local talent, support local businesses, attract visitors and encourage people to stay longer and experience more of what Hinchinbrook has to offer.

The Chamber is now inviting all community groups, sporting clubs, schools, businesses and event organisers to be part of this year's festival.

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Chamber would like to hear about any events planned across the Hinchinbrook Shire between 17 October 2026 and 26 November 2026. Whether it's a community celebration, fundraiser, sporting event, exhibition, workshop, live performance, market or family day, your event could become part of the official Hinchinbrook Festival of Events program.

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Being included in the festival provides an opportunity for that event to benefit from coordinated regional promotion, increased exposure and the collective momentum created by a packed calendar of events designed to encourage visitors to explore our region throughout the festival period.

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Together, we can continue building a festival that not only celebrates our incredible community but also delivers lasting economic and tourism benefits for the entire Hinchinbrook Shire.

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If you have an event that you'd like included in this year's Festival of Events, please contact the Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Tourism Inc. We look forward to working with our community once again to make the 2026 Hinchinbrook Festival of Events even bigger and better than its successful debut.

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