Steven can come to you to help set up that pesky router or figure out what has gone wrong with your smart TV. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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Navigating computer and technology glitches can be a daunting task for many Hinchinbrook residents, particularly when it involves dismantling hardware to haul it into a local shop. Steven Veltmeyer is eliminating this hassle by bringing adaptable, on-site IT assistance straight to residential homes and corporate workplaces.

Offering comprehensive aid for desktops, laptops, smartphones, smart TVs, surveillance cameras, Wi-Fi networks, and email setups, Steven’s on-the-go service prioritises sensible, real-world solutions tackled right where the issues arise.

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“I started Steven’s IT Services because I could see that many people in Hinchinbrook needed reliable IT help but didn’t always have the time, ability, or confidence to disconnect their equipment and take it into a shop,” Steven said.

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“The ‘I come to you’ approach makes it much easier for people, as it at no extra cost. I can see the issue at the home or business where it actually happens.”

Operating directly alongside locals and small-business owners enables Steven to swiftly troubleshoot faults, whether dealing with a sluggish operating system, malware, patchy Wi-Fi, or the configuration of brand-new gear.

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“The biggest advice I give people is to keep things simple and keep everything updated regularly,” he said.

Ultimately, Steven notes that whilst resolving hardware and software issues is crucial, his favourite aspect of the job is empowering clients to feel at ease with their digital tools.

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“One of the things I enjoy most about running Steven’s IT Services is helping people feel more confident with technology. IT shouldn’t be intimidating as it should make life easier. Being able to provide local, friendly support where people live and work is something I’m really proud of, and I’m always happy to help the community stay connected and secure.”

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Come join us at the feast of St Anthony’s. Photo supplied

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The Bemerside community is preparing to celebrate the 99th annual Feast of St Anthony on Sunday, 14 June 2026. This much-loved local tradition brings together faith, family, and community in a day filled with prayer, food, and festivities.

As the only celebration of its kind held in the Townsville diocese, this cherished event has stood strong for nearly a century. Today, the next generation continues to honour the important religious occasion, with some visitors travelling great distances to attend.

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Throughout the afternoon, a variety of food and drink stalls will be operating, offering everything from a BBQ and fish and chips to granita, cannoli, cakes, and sandwiches. A licensed bar, tea, coffee, and soft drinks will also be available.

Entertainment for all ages will feature live music from Anthony Fracchia, alongside a jumping castle for the children, a bottle stall, the 500 Club, and a monster raffle. Religious articles will also be featured.

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This annual celebration remains a valued part of the Hinchinbrook region’s cultural and spiritual life, and everyone is warmly invited to attend, share in the vibrant community spirit, and honour tradition.

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For more information please contact Anthony on 0408 151 833

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Event Schedule

• 11:00 am: Celebration of Mass, led by the Parish Priest.

• 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm: Lunch, stalls, and entertainment.

• 2:30 pm: Procession and Rosary, followed by the Blessing of Children and the Distribution of St Anthony’s Bread.

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WHAT: 99th Annual Feast of St Anthony.
WHEN: 11:00am - 6:00pm Sunday, 8th June 2025.
WHERE: St Anthony's Church on 18 Fulton Dr, Bemerside.

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Investing in Our Roads, Supporting Industry and Strengthening Our Community

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As your elected State Member, I’m pleased to share that important asphalt pavement maintenance works are underway on the Bruce Highway between Scovazzi’s Road and Larsen’s Road. This investment reflects our ongoing commitment to improving road safety and ensuring Queenslanders can travel on well-maintained, reliable infrastructure. By undertaking these works, we are addressing wear and tear while enhancing driving conditions for the many commuters, freight operators and families who rely on this critical transport corridor each and every day.

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Further to this, motorists are advised of temporary traffic changes on the Bruce Highway near Ollera Creek from 26 May to 17 July, between 6am and 6pm, to allow for essential geotechnical investigation works. These investigations are a key step in planning future improvements and maintaining the long-term resilience of our road network. I encourage everyone travelling through the area to plan ahead, follow signage, and take extra care.

Road safety remains a top priority, and while I understand roadworks can at times be inconvenient, they are vital to delivering safer and more efficient roads for our community. I urge all motorists travelling through work zones to drive carefully, follow traffic directions, and allow extra travel time where possible. Your patience and cooperation play an important role in keeping both road workers and fellow drivers safe.

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Strong infrastructure like this not only improves safety, it also supports the success of our key local industries. In that context, I recently had the incredible opportunity to tour the Lucinda Bulk Sugar Terminal with Sugar Terminals Limited, gaining a firsthand look at one of North Queensland’s most significant export operations.

It is remarkable to think that a simple stick of cane planted right here in our district can be grown, harvested, and transported from local fields to international markets, where it is used in a wide range of products and industries around the world. This journey highlights not only the strength of our local agricultural sector, but also the critical role our transport networks play in connecting producers to global markets. I extend my sincere thanks to the team at the terminal for taking the time to show us through and share their knowledge.

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At the same time, it is equally important that we preserve the heritage that defines our region. It is great to see funding allocated under the North and Far North Tropical Low Heritage Disaster Recovery Grant toward Ingham’s Gairloch Bridge Conservation Project. This iconic local landmark holds cherished memories for so many and has long served as a vital connection point within our community. The Crisafulli Government is proud to support the preservation of heritage-listed places and the landmarks that tell the story of our region.

Looking ahead, I also encourage community members and stakeholders to stay informed and have their say on broader policy matters affecting Queensland. The Queensland Productivity Commission has been tasked with undertaking a public inquiry into the impacts of the Australian Government’s 2025 reforms to the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999.

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This inquiry will examine how these changes affect Queensland in practice, including regulatory and economic impacts, implementation risks, and operational arrangements. Importantly, it will also consider opportunities to reduce unnecessary regulatory burden while improving efficiency; an issue that matters greatly to our industries, regional communities, and future development.

The Commission will shortly release a call for submissions, and I encourage interested individuals, businesses and organisations to take part in the process. You can also contact the Commission directly at enquiry@qpc.qld.gov.au to contribute or learn more.

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By continuing to invest in our roads, support our industries, preserve our heritage, and engage in important policy discussions, we are building a stronger, more resilient future for Hinchinbrook and all Queenslanders.

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At a recent Chamber Industry Breakfast, many locals learned about resilience and how to apply it to their businesses. Featuring guest speaker Fiona Jago from Resilient Ready. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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Navigating The Ever-Changing World Of Business

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Chamber is receiving feedback from many business owners that there has been a noticeable decline on consumer confidence in recent months and the broader uncertainty is creating an environment of caution and restraint.

The ongoing hostilities around the world are adding to the impacts being felt in households across the nation where heightened cost of living pressures, interest rate rises and more recently taxation changes announced in the Federal budget are giving rise to increased apprehension.

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In addition to these impacts, at a local level for those involved in the agricultural sector, the continuing low world sugar price will affect the wider local community, as the broader economic outlook is directly related to the sugar industry.

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For many in business, including staff and contractors, this is a very challenging and concerning time as they navigate the pathway to remain sustainable. At recent Chamber meetings and events, we have encouraged open and frank discussion regarding the challenges but also explored the opportunities to expand market audience and review whole of business operations that may enable more streamlined operations.    

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Because of the diversity of local business types and client-base, there is not one simple solution, rather a tailored approach that aligns with the operations of each business. Some owners are reviewing the impact of changing staffing availability to amend trading hours, some are reviewing marketing strategies, and others are reviewing stock levels or refining the service delivery options.  

Regardless of the decisions that each owner may take, the one constant theme that emerges particularly during challenging times in the economy, is how essential it is for every business owner to be constantly reviewing and assessing how things are travelling.  

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Owning a business can be very rewarding and sometimes very stressful or isolating. Chamber strives to inform and support its membership and encourages anyone in the business community who be feeling the strain, to please reach out, connect with your support network and seek help to navigate the journey.  

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Hannah McNamara Journalist from Mackay Life Newspaper, Sherie Hensler-Adams Sales Manager from Hinchinbrook Life, Bec Douthwaite Owner and Publisher, Jacob Casha journalist from Burdekin Life Newspaper, Victoria Velton Journalist from Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper, Rachael Smith Life Publishing Group Editor in Chief and Trish Jandt Sales Manager for Whitsunday Life.

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Every paper within the Life Publishing Group umbrella is sharing in the glory of a successful Queensland Country Press Awards, where this small but mighty independent newspaper group brought home six awards.

Owner and publisher Bec Douthwaite said she was immensely proud of the team and delighted to see each newspaper thriving within their communities.

“It was an incredible night and amazing to see our entire team shine at state level!”

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Life Publishing Group Brings Home 3 Gold And 3 Silver State Awards

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The team at Life Publishing Group are celebrating this week following one of their most successful years at the Queensland Country Press Awards which were held in the Sunshine Coast over the weekend.

Jacob Casha, journalist with Burdekin Life Newspaper, was announced as Best Young Journalist of the year and also received a silver for Best Single Story by an Individual Journalist.

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Meanwhile, Chelsea Ravizza, who writes across all Life Publishing Group papers, including this one, received a silver in the Best Young Journalist of the Year category.

“Young journalists are the lifeblood of regional journalism,” said Life Publishing Group Editor in Chief Rachael Smith.

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“Our journalists learn the ropes fast, attending community events, forming connections and networks, writing and reporting on every aspect of news from sports to events – it is a big job that sets the tone for a dynamic career.

“To think that two members of our team took out the two top spots in this category is incredibly humbling – and an example of the calibre of writing all our journalists are striving towards.  

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“This was capped off by Jacob receiving a silver award for Best Single Story — it’s fantastic to see him recognised in his first year alongside seasoned journalists who have spent years refining their craft.”

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In addition to the editorial awards, Life Publishing Group won three advertising awards.

A highlight was receiving gold for Best Print Community Advertising Promotion for the Life Publishing Group Enchanted Garden Charity Event which raised an impressive $56,000 for seven regional charities.

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A second gold was awarded for Best Locally Produced Print Advertisement of the year and was followed by silver for Best Locally Produced Advertising Campaign of the year.

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“It makes life easy when you know you have a great team to back you up,” said Hinchinbrook Life Sales Manager Sherie Hensler Adams.

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“At Life Publishing Group, our incredible creative team designs each ad from scratch, working closely with our clients to bring out the best in their business.  

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“We truly care about every client, and you can see this clearly in the love that goes into the design of all the ads and all the pages in every paper.”

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There are more than 60 independent news media publishers registered with Queensland Country Press Association.

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“In 2024 we were thrilled to bring home Best Free Newspaper in Queensland for our sister publication Mackay and Whitsunday Life,” shared Rachael Smith.

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“This was a huge honour, and one we are looking forward to achieving again as we grow our other publications, especially here in Hinchinbrook.

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“2026 represents a year where we have solidified our presence within the newspaper community and are seen as high achievers among our peers – this is something I am truly proud of.

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“Everyone in the team has contributed to the success behind all these awards and they are a result of us all striving for excellence in everything we do.”

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Radayne Spina has begun a First Nations traineeship with Hinchinbrook Shire Council’s Biosecurity Team through Greening Australia’s Palm Creek Restoration Project. Photo supplied.

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A new First Nations traineeship role created through Greening Australia’s Palm Creek Restoration Project is helping open doors to careers caring for Country in the Hinchinbrook region.

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Girramay, Kalkadoon, Nywaigi and Gia man Radayne Spina has been appointed to the role, which is the first identified position created through the partnership between Greening Australia, Hinchinbrook Shire Council, local Nywaigi and Girramay Elders, and regional partners.

The traineeship, funded through the Caterpillar Foundation, will see Mr Spina complete a Certificate III in Conservation and Ecosystem Management with Hinchinbrook Shire Council’s Biosecurity Team while gaining hands-on field experience.

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Mr Spina said his passion for environmental work began while growing up around his father’s work as a ranger with the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service.

“Growing up with my Father working at QPWS I always enjoyed being outside in the natural environment and learning about it and would like see the environment healthy for generations to come,” he said.

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“This traineeship is helping me build skills and experience, learning from Council staff, Elders, and mentors at Greening Australia. I’m grateful for the support through the Palm Creek project and I’m excited to use what I’m learning to care for Country.”

As part of the traineeship, Mr Spina is learning revegetation and nursery procedures, weed management and digital mapping, while also completing TAFE studies including safe chainsaw operation.

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“It’s good to learn from people who have experience within environmental fields and for them to pass their knowledge onto me,” he said.

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Mr Spina said he also hoped to gain rural firefighting qualifications in the future to explore cultural burning and further career opportunities in the environmental sector.

“As people are part of the environment I believe that if we take care of the land it will take care of us,” he said.

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Hinchinbrook Shire Council Chief Executive Officer Mary-Anne Uren said the identified position had been shaped through consultation with local Elders to ensure it was culturally informed and community-led.

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“This is an incredible opportunity provided through Greening Australia and the Caterpillar Foundation, and we want to thank the local Nywaigi and Girramay Elders who have chatted with us about this identified position to ensure it is culturally informed and community-led,” Ms Uren said.

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Greening Australia project lead Sharon Marks said the role was already creating positive outcomes within the community.

“Radayne is a great fit for this position and is already getting plenty of field experience. Sometimes opening doors for one person can have a ripple effect for a whole community,” Ms Marks said.

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Since 2022, the Palm Creek Restoration Project has worked alongside Traditional Owners, council and regional partners to restore habitat, improve water quality and support First Nations-led environmental outcomes in the Great Barrier Reef catchment.

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Local heroes were recognised in Townsville last week for their resilience, teamwork and dedication during the 2025 Floods

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Ingham and Halifax SES groups were awarded Regional Operational Response of the Year at the Northern Region SES Awards last week, in recognition of their extraordinary resilience, teamwork and dedication during the 2025 Floods. On top of this, Local Controller Dan Cordner was awarded the Regional Member of the Year for his outstanding contribution.

Mayor Ramon Jayo has congratulated and thanked the volunteers for their dedication and hard work.

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“These are everyday people with families, jobs and responsibilities, who make the conscious decision to step away from their own lives when disaster strikes and put our community first. That commitment deserves our deepest respect,” Mayor Jayo said.  

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“Your efforts do not go unnoticed and our communities are stronger because of you.”

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SES Chief Officer Mark Armstrong said the awards offered an opportunity to recognise the ongoing dedication, professionalism and service embodied by the state’s volunteers during challenging conditions.

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“For over 50 years SES members have supported regional and rural communities to prepare for and recover from emergency situations,” Chief Officer Armstrong said.

“Across Queensland, our 5,000 volunteers selflessly answer the call 24 hours a day, 365 days per year when Queenslanders need them most.”

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SES Regional Director Northern Region, Daryl Camp ESM said the award recipients had each demonstrated a remarkable commitment to deliver crucial services to North and North West Queensland communities within the last year.  

“When record breaking flood conditions hit North and North West Queensland in February 2025, our volunteers were immediately on the ground to sandbag, provide temporary repairs, assist with rescues and provide emergency operations support,” Mr Camp said.

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“They also answered the call earlier this month to support communities from Townsville to Mackay facing flooding as a result of Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji.

“We are proud of every single one of our volunteers and are thrilled to recognise the particularly exceptional efforts of nine of our members who performed work beyond what is normally expected.

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“We are privileged to have them as part of the SES and are proud to acknowledge them at tonight’s awards.”

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Our local SES groups are on the lookout for new members so we can keep helping the community in times of disaster.

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When emergencies strike—whether they are floods, storms, or road rescues—our community relies on volunteers like you. By becoming part of your local SES group, you will support your community when it matters most, while learning valuable skills in teamwork, leadership, and emergency response.

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Right now, we especially need community members to step into roles such as flood boat operators, working safely at height operators, and incident management. No prior experience is necessary, as full training and support are provided. Contact your local SES group today to start volunteering, or simply scan the QR code and fill out our quick form.

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NR.Recruit@ses.qld.gov.au | 0400 751 622 | Tuesday nights 6:00pm, Menzies St, Ingham

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Attendees representing and supporting businesses from across the region came together on Friday night to celebrate at the 2026 Cassowary Coast Local Business Awards.

The evening recognised outstanding local businesses across eight award categories, celebrating hardworking operators helping drive the region forward.

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Cassowary Coast Regional Council Mayor Teresa Millwood said the awards were an opportunity to celebrate the businesses that help shape the region’s identity and strengthen local communities.

“Local businesses are the heart of the Cassowary Coast, and these awards are a wonderful opportunity to recognise the passion, resilience and dedication shown by businesses right across our region.”

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“From long-standing local family run businesses to exciting new businesses, the calibre of finalists and winners this year was exceptional.”

“These businesses not only contribute to our economy, but they help create vibrant communities, local jobs and a strong sense of place.”

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2026 Cassowary Coast Local Business Award winners

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•Rising Star Award: JK Rocket Fuel

•Outstanding Business Award: Mission Beach Dive

•Customer Service Excellence: House of Valmai

•Environmental Sustainability Award: Aus Fish Coral Pty Ltd

•Leading Employer: Tropical Vets

•Community Engagement: Silkwood Hotel

•Trade, Retail and Services Excellence: O'Brien's Electrical Innisfail

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People’s Choice Business of the Year

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One of the biggest moments of the evening was the announcement of the People’s Choice Business of the Year Award, with community voting delivering an incredibly close result between all of the Top 5!

After a strong show of community support and hundreds of votes, the 2026 People’s Choice Business of the Year was awarded to Hair Manor.

Queensland Small Business Commissioner Nicolle Kelly said the awards were a fantastic opportunity to recognise and celebrate the important role small businesses play in regional communities across Queensland.

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“Queensland Small Business Month is about celebrating the incredible contributions of small businesses in our communities, and the Cassowary Coast Local Business Awards is a great example of this.

Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, and events like these shine a well-deserved spotlight on the hardworking individuals and teams who go above and beyond to create jobs, drive innovation, and make our regions thrive.

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It’s inspiring to see the passion and dedication of local business owners here on the Cassowary Coast, and I congratulate all the finalists and winners for their outstanding achievements.”

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Outstanding Business Award winner Jade Parsonage from Mission Beach Dive said the recognition was a proud moment for the team and a reflection of the strong support shown across the local business community.

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“We were absolutely chuffed to be finalists in four award categories, including the People’s Choice Award. To take home the Outstanding Business Award feels really special,” Ms Parsonage said.

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“It was fantastic to be recognised alongside so many incredible local businesses and to feel the support from Council and the wider business community across the region. The night itself had a great atmosphere and was a wonderful celebration of local business on the Cassowary Coast.”

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Mayor Teresa Millwood also acknowledged the efforts of Council’s Economic Development team for delivering the event as part of Queensland Small Business Month.

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“The Local Business Awards are about recognising the people behind the businesses. The operators who continue to invest in our communities, support local jobs and contribute so much to making the Cassowary Coast the most liveable tropical community,” Mayor Millwood said.

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Coalition representatives are urging the Australian Government to strengthen protections for cane growers as the nation’s Sugar Code of Conduct undergoes a major review.

The review comes as the existing code, introduced by the former Coalition Government, approaches its 10-year sunset period and faces a decision on whether it will be renewed or remade.

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Shadow Minister for Northern Australia Susan McDonald said the code had played a critical role in protecting growers during negotiations with large milling companies.

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“The Sugar Code of Conduct was introduced for a reason, and it has proven effective,” she said.

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“Cane growers often have limited leverage when negotiating with large mills, and the code provides important protections to ensure negotiations are fair and disputes can be resolved. We do not want to see growers lose the safeguards that have helped deliver certainty and stability across the industry.”

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Senator McDonald said the review also presented an opportunity to consider how the code could apply to emerging sugar cane products including ethanol and biofuels.

“As the industry evolves into ethanol, biofuels and other value-added products, it makes sense to consult growers and industry about whether sensible adaptations are required,” she said.

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“But any future changes must preserve the strong protections already provided under the code.”

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Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox said the review needed to recognise the mounting pressures already facing cane farmers.

“This review must recognise that our cane farmers are the ones taking all the risk with mother nature, while dealing with massive global price fluctuations and rising input costs,” he said.

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“This Code was designed to level the playing field and ensure that negotiations are handled in good faith. We have already seen Labor leave regional Australians out in the cold in this week’s Budget, and we cannot afford for them to do the same with the Sugar Code.”

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Mr Willcox said growers needed to benefit from the industry’s transition into bio-manufacturing and renewable energy sectors.

“As our industry evolves into biofuels, ethanol, and other value-added products, the Code must evolve with it,” he said.

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“We need to ensure that our cane farmers are rewarded for the innovation they bring to the sector, not just the raw product they deliver to the mill gate.”

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Deputy Leader of the Nationals and Shadow Agriculture Minister Darren Chester said consultation with growers would be crucial throughout the process.

“The Coalition introduced the Sugar Code to give growers practical protections and a fairer playing field, and this review must strengthen those safeguards, not water them down,” he said.

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Queensland Natural Resources and Mines Minister and Burdekin MP Dale Last said the Burdekin had previously experienced the uncertainty caused when negotiations between growers and mills stalled.

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“A decade ago, the Burdekin witnessed first-hand what can happen when that safety net does not exist and those crucial negotiations are left at a stalemate,” Mr Last said.

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Industry consultation and regional shed meetings are expected to form part of the review process in coming months, with growers and communities encouraged to provide feedback.

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Cattle fitted with electronic neckbands as part of the NQ Dry Tropics–DPI virtual fencing trial in North Queensland. Photo source: NQ Dry Tropics

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New technology is helping reshape the future of grazing management in North Queensland, with a long-term virtual fencing trial exploring how producers can manage cattle and pasture with greater precision.

NQ Dry Tropics is partnering with the Queensland Department of Primary Industries on the Long Term Virtual Fencing Trial, which is investigating how electronic neckbands can support more responsive and adaptive grazing systems.

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The technology allows producers to control where and when cattle graze using virtual boundaries managed from a mobile phone, reducing the need for traditional fencing in some areas.

According to NQ Dry Tropics, the system aims to improve grazing distribution across landscapes, reduce pressure on preferred grazing areas, make better use of available pasture and support groundcover and soil health outcomes.

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The trial is currently being conducted at the Spyglass Beef Research Facility, where pasture conditions are regularly monitored and grazing plans adjusted in real time to respond to seasonal conditions and pasture availability.

NQ Dry Tropics Climate Adaptation Coordinator Justin Macor said the technology represented a major step forward for producers looking to improve flexibility and long-term land management.

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“This is about giving producers more flexibility and control — the ability to respond quickly to what’s happening in the paddock and being able to manage grazing pressure more effectively,” he said.

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“It’s a practical step forward in improving productivity while supporting long-term landscape health.”

The trial forms part of broader efforts to explore innovative approaches to sustainable agriculture and climate adaptation across North Queensland grazing systems.

Australian farmers are set to benefit from an additional 90,000 tonnes of fertiliser secured by the Government to support food production and supply chains. Photo source: Shutterstock

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The Albanese Labor Government has secured approximately 90,000 tonnes of agricultural grade urea to support Australian farmers and help maintain the nation’s food supply chain amid ongoing global uncertainty.

The additional fertiliser shipments were secured through Export Finance Australia in partnership with CSBP and Incitec Pivot and mark the first shipments obtained under the Government’s new Strategic Reserve powers.

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The move forms part of broader efforts to help Australia’s agriculture sector manage the impacts of conflict in the Middle East, with more shipments expected in the coming weeks.

The new supply builds on the 250,000 tonnes of fertiliser previously secured with Indonesia through PT Pupuk in partnership with Incitec Pivot.

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The Government said the extra fertiliser would provide greater certainty for farmers as they make planting and growing decisions while supporting both domestic food production and export supply chains.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the Government was focused on supporting Australian farmers during a period of global disruption.

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“We’re backing Australian farmers and producers during this time of global uncertainty,” Mr Albanese said.

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“We know how critical fertiliser is for the sector, which is why we’re securing important additional shipments like this.”

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Trade and Tourism Minister Don Farrell said the Government was providing practical support to farming communities facing supply challenges.

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“This is another example of the Government providing practical and timely assistance to Australian farmers at a time of intense global supply disruptions,” Senator Farrell said.

“Our hard-working farming communities can be assured that we will leave no stone unturned to help secure the inputs needed to keep them moving and produce the best food and fibre in the world.”

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Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Minister Julie Collins said securing fertiliser supplies was essential for food security.

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“Underwriting additional shipments of fertiliser is about ensuring our farmers can continue producing the food we all love and rely on,” Minister Collins said.

“This is positive news for our farmers and means they can continue planting with confidence during this current season and know that additional supply is on the way for the future. Having access to critical inputs like fertiliser underpins the food security of Australia and the countries we export to, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region, which is why we’ve been working day and night with industry to get fertiliser to our farmers.”

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The Government has also announced a $7.5 billion Fuel and Fertiliser Security Facility to support supply and storage, alongside measures to streamline fertiliser imports and strengthen food security partnerships internationally.

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So far, the Albanese Government says it has secured more than 450 million litres of additional diesel and 100 million litres of additional aviation fuel under new financing arrangements.

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Hello Hinchinbrook,

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I would like to share an update regarding developments with the DETSI Environmental Disaster Recovery Unit, which is currently developing the Catchment Rehabilitation Program for the 2025 North and Far North Tropical Low (NFNTL) severe weather event (29 January – 28 February 2025).

The DRFA North and Far North Tropical Low Environmental Recovery Program (NFNTL ERP) forms part of an exceptional circumstances package jointly agreed to and funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments under Category D of the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).  

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This program is designed to support recovery following this significant disaster event.

Funding will be prioritised for projects that adopt a whole-of-system approach to catchment rehabilitation, demonstrate strong stakeholder engagement, and foster collaborative partnerships.

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DRFA funding for the NFNTL ERP was approved by the Prime Minister on 16 July 2025. Any work undertaken prior to this date is not eligible under DRFA funding arrangements.

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The program aims to:

• Support recovery, improve environmental condition, and build resilience across impacted areas

• Protect catchments and associated ecological processes

• Ensure recovery actions do not create further environmental risks

• Prioritise locally led initiatives where possible

• Safeguard environmental assets for current and future generations

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Funding outcomes will support a strong, locally led approach to catchment rehabilitation, focused on improving the condition and resilience of impacted environments and ecological systems.

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Eligible activities must:

• Be delivered within an eligible LGA (including Hinchinbrook Shire)

• Target freshwater, estuarine, or marine environments impacted by the event

• Directly relate to the NFNTL severe weather event (29 January – 28 February 2025)

• Be completed by 30 June 2028

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Eligible activities may include:

• Erosion recovery works (bank stabilisation, revegetation, seeding)

• Exclusion fencing and off-stream watering points

• In-stream habitat restoration

• Weed and pest control in riverine and floodplain areas

• Biodiversity conservation for locally significant or threatened species

• Debris removal associated with catchment rehabilitation

• Cultural guidance and engagement in recovery activities

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Eligible applicants include River Improvement Trusts constituted under the River Improvement Trust Act 1940.

The Herbert River Improvement Trust (HRIT) has currently identified more than 64 sites, with an estimated value of approximately $8.6 million. These sites have been inspected and costed, and many will be submitted for consideration under the DETSI Catchment Rehabilitation Program.

Once again, it is great to pick up a copy of Hinchinbrook Life and read about the events, initiatives and developments across our Shire.

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The Gairloch Bridge sustained damage during the 2025 February Weather Event. Photo suppled

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Hinchinbrook Shire Council has welcomed the joint announcement by the State and Federal Governments to support disaster-impacted, heritage-listed landmarks across North and Far North Queensland, recognising the importance of preserving places that hold deep meaning for regional communities.

The inclusion of the Gairloch Bridge Conservation Project highlights the significance of this much-loved local landmark, which remains an important part of Hinchinbrook’s history and identity.

Mayor Ramon Jayo said Gairloch Bridge holds a special place in both Queensland’s history and the hearts of the local community.

“Gairloch Bridge is a landmark of both local and state heritage significance. Built between 1890 and 1891, it is the oldest composite concrete and steel bridge in Queensland and has served the region for more than a century,” Mayor Jayo said.  

“For many in our community, this bridge is more than infrastructure, it represents our shared history, memories and connection to place.”

The project has been allocated $47,000 under the 2024–25 Environmental Recovery Package: Heritage Disaster Recovery Grants program. This funding will support initial assessment and planning following damage sustained during the February 2025 flood event.

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The funding will deliver a Conservation Management Plan, prepared by a qualified Heritage Architect, along with a detailed structural inspection. These will help Council understand the current condition of the bridge, identify any urgent works, and outline a practical, staged approach to its future conservation.

This project is proudly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments under the Commonwealth–state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) in association with Hinchinbrook Shire Council.

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“This funding is an important first step in ensuring we can properly assess the damage and plan for the preservation of this iconic structure,” Mayor Jayo said.

Following the 2025 flood event, Gairloch Bridge sustained structural damage and has been closed to all access, including pedestrians, to ensure public safety.

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The bridge was previously closed to vehicular traffic in 2014 due to safety concerns; however, the latest damage means continued access is no longer viable.

As a State Heritage-listed structure, any future works must meet strict heritage requirements, making recovery and restoration complex.

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“Restoring heritage infrastructure like Gairloch Bridge takes time and careful planning. This funding allows us to start that process properly. We thank the Australian and Queensland Governments for recognising the importance of sites like Gairloch Bridge and supporting their recovery.”

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This local heritage structure holds much history in it struts and supports. Many a foot has crossed it and a few lives were tragically lost. Read the Gairloch Bridge history of local tales at www.hinchinbrooklife.com/article/the-gairloch-bridge

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SES Volunteers are among the thousands of Queenslanders being recognised during the 2026 Queensland Volunteering Awards. Photo source: Hinchinbrook Shire Council

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Volunteers across the Hinchinbrook and Cassowary Coast regions are being recognised as part of the 2026 Queensland Volunteering Awards, with almost 50,000 volunteers acknowledged statewide for their contributions to local communities.

The awards, supported by the Crisafulli Government, celebrated 21 finalists, eight recipients and 275 nominations across Queensland this year.

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Regional communities across North Queensland rely heavily on volunteers, particularly through SES groups, sporting organisations, charities, community events and disaster recovery efforts.

Queensland Minister for Volunteers Ann Leahy said volunteers were essential to the strength and resilience of Queensland communities.

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“Volunteers are at the heart of our communities, and our government is proud to be delivering practical support and recognition for the people who selflessly give their time to help others,” Minister Leahy said.

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“These awards are about honouring the thousands of Queenslanders who step up every day to support others, strengthen communities and deliver real impact across our state.”

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CEO of Volunteering Queensland Jane Hedger said volunteers continued to make a difference despite growing pressures on households and support services.

“At a time when cost of living pressures and increasing demand for support are placing strain on Queenslanders, volunteers continue to step up and be the steady hands helping to hold our communities together,” Ms Hedger said.

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The awards form part of broader efforts to recognise volunteers during the United Nations International Year of Volunteers in 2026.

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