Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
It is time to get ready people as we start to enter our high risk weather season, our well regarded wet season. The key to getting ready revolves around three key elements. Know the risk that you may face. Make a plan on how you will deal with those risks and then make preparations to fit your plan including getting an emergency kit together. There is a lot of information available both in digital format or hard copy if you need assistance with knowing your risks or how to prepare. Hard copy information is available at Council’s main office on Lannercost Street, and digitally you can find information on Council's website, Disaster Support & Preparedness page www.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au/Community-and-Events/Disaster-Support-Preparedness A Get Ready Queensland stall will be held at the Woolworths complex, 29 Ann Street, Ingham, on Wednesday 14th October between 8.30am and 2.30pm. The display is being hosted by our Hinchinbrook Local Disaster Management Group and will bring together representatives from Council, SES, Queensland Police and NBN. It will be a great opportunity to learn more about disaster preparedness, ask questions and access practical information ahead of the upcoming wet and cyclone season. So it will be great to see you there. And talking about Telstra, are you aware of the new Temporary Disaster Roaming (TDR) capability. If your mobile network is affected during an extreme weather event, such as a bushfire, flood or cyclone, your phone may be able to connect to another participating carrier's mobile network, where available, to help you make essential calls and texts. If Telstra is the only network operating in the affected area, Optus and TPG customers may also be able to connect through Telstra network where safe to do so. This new capability is already online and ready in time for this disaster season. It’s designed to help customers stay connected, with access to essential calls, texts and basic data where possible and there is no extra cost.
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Mayor Jayo was part of a mayoral delegation standing up against proposed changes to disaster relief funding. Photo source: LGAQThe Federal Government has scrapped proposed changes to disaster recovery funding following strong opposition from Queensland councils and the State Government. Hinchinbrook Mayor Ramon Jayo had previously shared warnings that the changes would have placed an unsustainable financial burden on the region.Hinchinbrook Welcomes Disaster Funding Reversal By Victoria Velton The Federal Government’s decision to abandon proposed changes to disaster recovery funding has been welcomed by all levels of local and state government, who warned a shift to a 50:50 funding split would have placed significant financial pressure on the region’s disaster-prone communities. The announcement, made on Friday 9th October, follows strong opposition from Queensland councils, mayors and the State Government, who argued the proposed changes would leave local authorities struggling to cover the additional costs of rebuilding after natural disasters. Under the proposal, the Federal Government would have reduced its disaster recovery contribution from up to 75 per cent to a flat 50 per cent, increasing the financial burden on state and local governments. Mayor of Hinchinbrook said the decision to rescind the changes was a relief for the region, which regularly faces flooding and other natural disasters. “We're thankful for the government listening to our concerns,” Mayor Ramon Jayo said. “It was going to be a significant cost to our community, a cost that our community cannot afford. So we're very grateful to the government for listening.” The Mayor said Hinchinbrook’s geography made the region particularly vulnerable to flooding, with the Herbert River draining nearly 70 per cent of all rainfall in the Wet Tropics area. The potential financial implications were a significant concern for the local authority, which has limited resources to absorb additional disaster recovery costs. “I'll start sleeping at night now,” Mayor Ramon Jayo said. “It was very concerning because we tend to have a disaster every year. If not, every second year.” Over the past decade, Hinchinbrook has been impacted by natural disasters to the extent of approximately $70 million, averaging between $3 million and $3.5 million annually. “We're only a small council, a small local authority area,” the Mayor said. “In the current climate, that's just about impossible to find without significantly impacting our community.” Queensland Premier David Crisafulli also welcomed the Federal Government’s decision, thanking the Prime Minister for listening to concerns raised by the State Government and councils across Queensland. “We now wait to see further details, and ensure this is delivered and funding arrangements are maintained in full, so Queenslanders can have certainty and confidence in their hour of need during disaster season,” Mr Crisafulli said. In 2025, Ingham township was flooded, boats served better than cars as Lovell Street guys delivered fuel and generators to those in need. Photo credit: Melissa Groundwater The Premier said the State Government had stood alongside mayors, the Local Government Association of Queensland and councils to oppose the proposed changes, adding that the decision would help protect the state’s disaster recovery arrangements ahead of the upcoming season. Hinchinbrook MP Wayde Chiesa described the announcement as “great news for Queensland and particularly our communities across Hinchinbrook”. Mr Chiesa said North Queensland’s history of cyclones and flooding demonstrated why reliable disaster recovery funding was essential. “Our coastline between Townsville and Cairns is one of the most disaster-prone regions in Australia,” he said. “Who could forget Cyclone Larry, Cyclone Yasi, Cyclone Kirrily, the devastating Townsville floods in 2019 or the floods that swept through our region again in 2025?” “For North Queenslanders, natural disasters aren’t once-in-a-generation events. They’re a reality of where we live.” Mr Chiesa said regional councils and communities could not afford to shoulder additional rebuilding costs every time disaster struck, acknowledging the collective advocacy of Queensland’s 77 mayors in opposing the proposal. “The devil will be in the detail, but today’s announcement is a positive step,” he said. “I’ll continue fighting to ensure Hinchinbrook gets its fair share of disaster recovery funding. It’s simply too important not to get it right.” While the decision to abandon the proposed changes has provided relief for councils and communities, further details are still needed to confirm the arrangements will be maintained in full. For Hinchinbrook, where disaster recovery costs place ongoing pressure on a small council’s budget, maintaining the existing funding arrangements will be critical to ensuring the region can recover when the next disaster strikes.
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The Riverfest Queen competition attracted five entrants, with Amity Stewart crowned Riverfest Queen and Sofia Xiong receiving the Community Spirit Award. Photo credit: Vince SofiaInnisfail turned on the party, with record crowds flocking to Riverfest for a huge celebration of music, machinery and community spirit. An estimated 10,000 people attended over the weekend, filling the riverfront for Innisfail’s biggest Riverfest yet. Australian rock favourites Eskimo Joe brought the festival to a spectacular close, capping off an unforgettable weekend. Among the highlights was the Riverfest Queen competition, with five local contestants stepping into the spotlight. With attractions for all ages, sold-out food stalls and outstanding community support, Riverfest once again proved Innisfail knows how to put on a show. Riverfest Rocks Innisfail With Record Crowds By Helen Cook Innisfail's Riverfest has delivered its biggest celebration yet, with thousands flocking to the riverfront at the weekend for an afternoon and evening packed with entertainment, attractions and community spirit. Committee member Vince Sofia described this year's event as a resounding success, with crowds believed to have exceeded last year's estimated 10,000 visitors. "It was fantastic. It was so well supported by the community. It was definitely the largest crowd we've ever pulled," Vince said. Australian rock favourites Eskimo Joe brought the celebrations to a spectacular close, while local band Beer Body proved a huge hit, warming up the crowd ahead of the headline act. Throughout the afternoon, families enjoyed reptile displays, roving entertainment, vintage and new car displays, and an impressive collection of sugar industry machinery, including locomotives, a steam engine and cane harvesting equipment. An aerobatic display by pilot Bob Harris added excitement overhead, while television personality Paul Burt returned as event ambassador and MC. The Riverfest Queen competition attracted five entrants, with Amity Stewart crowned Riverfest Queen and Sofia Xiong receiving the Community Spirit Award. With food stalls reportedly selling out and glowing feedback flooding social media, Vince said the response had been overwhelming. He paid tribute to the local businesses, sponsors, volunteers and community organisations whose contributions made the event possible. "Without them, this event would not happen," he said. For Innisfail, Riverfest was another shining example of what a community can achieve when everyone gets behind a great local celebration. Photo credit: Vince Sofia
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Protein Packs A Punch! When we think of protein, it is easy to picture gym-goers reaching for a shake before a workout. But protein plays an important role in everyone’s diet, helping the body build and repair muscles, supporting healthy bones, and maintaining tissues throughout the body. Getting enough protein can also help you feel fuller for longer, making it an important part of a balanced diet and a healthy approach to maintaining energy throughout the day. Protein is found naturally in a wide range of foods, including meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, beans, lentils, nuts and seeds. However, busy lifestyles can sometimes make it difficult to get enough through meals alone. That is where convenient protein products can help. Ingham Wholelife Pharmacy & Healthfoods stocks a variety of protein options to suit different tastes, routines and dietary needs, including ready-to-drink shakes, grab-and-go protein bars, and suit-to-size options for powders and cordials. Whether you are looking for a convenient breakfast option, something to keep you going between meals or nutritional support when exercising, there are plenty of ways to incorporate protein into your daily routine. Ingham Wholelife Pharmacy & Healthfoods is running a huge 40 per cent off on select protein products, so now’s the time to pop in and explore their vast range and find an option that suits you.
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Hinchinbrook residents will have the opportunity to learn more about staying connected during emergencies when the nbn team visits Ingham for this week’s Get Set For the Wet event.
The nbn team will be available to answer questions about emergency connectivity, network resilience and the Fibre to the Premises upgrades being rolled out in Ingham.
Residents can also learn how nbn emergency messaging helps keep communities informed about network impacts during emergency events, providing important information when severe weather and other disruptions affect telecommunications services.
The visit will give locals the chance to discuss connectivity options available for their individual properties and find out whether their address may be eligible for an upgrade.
With the wet season approaching, understanding how to stay informed and connected during an emergency is an important part of household preparedness.
Community members are encouraged to drop by, ask questions and speak directly with the nbn team about their connectivity needs.
Residents can also check their eligibility for regional connectivity upgrades online at www.nbn.com.au/CheckRegional
There are some places that will always hold a special place in your heart, and for me, Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club is one of them. It is the club I grew up in, and over the weekend it was wonderful to return for the annual surf lifesaving carnival and catch up with so many familiar faces.
On Saturday, I was pleased to support the club's Life Members function, recognising the people who have dedicated so much of their lives to surf lifesaving and our local community.
These clubs are built on generations of volunteers, families and members who give their time to keep our beaches safe and create opportunities for young people. Forrest Beach is a wonderful example of that community spirit.
Sunday morning was particularly special, as we gathered with family, friends and club members to remember former Patron and Life Member Kauko Kaurila, following his recent passing.
Kauk was a remarkable man whose contribution to surf lifesaving spanned generations. He became a Life Member in 1955–56, served as Patron for 70 years and was an accomplished champion in surf and belt swimming.
In 1954, he also won the inaugural Magnetic Island to Townsville Swim.
It was a privilege to join his family and the club in laying a wreath into the ocean he loved so much. People like Kauk helped build the club I was fortunate enough to grow up in, and his legacy will live on through the generations who follow.
My thoughts remain with his family and everyone at Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club.
There has also been encouraging progress on another important commitment for our region, the revitalisation of Port Hinchinbrook.
The latest update confirms that the assessment of dredging tenders has progressed, site preparation is underway and environmental approval processes continue.
There is still plenty of work ahead, but each step brings us closer to restoring this important asset and unlocking new opportunities for Cardwell and the broader region.
This week, I am back in Brisbane for Parliament, continuing to raise the issues that matter to our communities.
Whether it is community safety, supporting our local industries, improving infrastructure or delivering on commitments like Port Hinchinbrook, I remain focused on making sure Hinchinbrook's voice is heard.
And weekends like the one at Forrest Beach are a reminder of exactly why that work matters - our people, our communities and the generations who have helped make Hinchinbrook such a special place to call home.
Celebrations were hosted at the Upper Stone CWA hall, with a cutting of a ribbon to signify the opening of the new mobile base station. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
By Victoria Velton
Residents and visitors to Upper Stone are now better connected following the installation of a new mobile base station funded by the Federal Government and Telstra through the Mobile Black Spot Program.
The improved mobile coverage is expected to benefit the small community west of Ingham, supporting local sugar-cane farming operations, businesses and visitors exploring the walking trails and camping areas near Girringun National Park.
Hinchinbrook Shire Deputy Mayor Mary Brown said the improved connectivity would make a significant difference to everyday life in the community.
“You only have to look at the community here to understand what connectivity means to them. Speaking with Lorna, the Australia Post contractor, she explained that without Telstra coverage, she couldn’t scan parcels to drop them off. There was no coverage, so she couldn’t do her job.
“Connectivity changes people’s lives, even in ordinary circumstances, let alone during emergencies. People in cities and urban areas often take electricity and communications for granted, but almost everything we do now relies on connectivity.
“When you don’t have those basics, it limits what you can do in your everyday life. The locals are immensely appreciative to have this connectivity where previously they had none.”
Federal Minister for Communications Anika Wells said the new infrastructure was part of the Government’s broader investment in regional telecommunications.
“No Australian should be left behind when it comes to connectivity and we are investing heavily in telecommunications infrastructure in partnership with industry to keep places like Upper Stone connected.”
Telstra Regional General Manager Rachel Cliffe said the tower would strengthen the community’s connectivity and resilience, particularly during emergencies.
“The new tower at Upper Stone is a significant investment in the connectivity and resilience of the local community. Reliable mobile coverage is essential during times of disaster and emergency, helping residents stay informed, contact emergency services, and keep in touch with family and friends when it matters most.
“Beyond emergencies, this new infrastructure will support day-to-day life and economic activity in the region, including improved connectivity for local farming operations and businesses that increasingly rely on digital technology to remain productive and competitive.
“It has been wonderful to partner with the Australian Government to deliver this crucial technology, ensuring communities like Upper Stone can access the connectivity they need to live, work and thrive.”
The Mobile Black Spot Program has supported funding for more than 1,400 new mobile base stations nationwide, representing a combined investment of more than $1 billion.
Recent rounds of the program form part of the Better Connectivity Plan for Regional and Rural Australia, which aims to improve telecommunications access across the country.
The Ogilvie family took out first prize for the most fish caught by a family, reeling in an impressive 103 tilapia. Cr Jeff Baines presented the winning prize. Photo: Cassowary Coast Regional Council
Young anglers and families have reeled in some impressive results at the 2026 Tilapia Tournament at Warrina Lakes, with the winners announced following another successful community event.
Over two and a half days, 444 participants caught an incredible 2,163 tilapia, helping reduce the number of invasive pest fish threatening local waterways.
Among the standout competitors was Lucian Di Carlo, who dominated the 13–18 years category, catching an impressive 212 fish and landing the longest at 31cm.
In the 6–12 years category, Spencer Torrisi topped the boys' tally with 144 fish, while Jamine Zupp led the girls with 33. Riley Guerra caught the longest boys' fish at 30cm, while Jessika Tammiku landed the longest girls' catch at 29cm.
The youngest anglers also showed plenty of enthusiasm. In the five years and under category, Elani De Maria caught 54 fish and recorded the longest girls' catch at 29cm, while Brody McSwan reeled in 48 fish. William Scarfe landed the longest boys' fish at 29.5cm.
In the teenage girls' category, Amber Carita took out both prizes, catching one fish measuring 25cm.
Families also got into the competitive spirit, with the Ogilvie family taking first place in Saturday's family competition with 103 fish, followed by the Torrisi family with 87, Higgins family with 83 and Lysons family with 33.
Good Counsel Primary School claimed the Best School award.
Beyond the prizes, the tournament gave young people an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, develop their fishing skills and learn about protecting local waterways.
With the weather warming up the pool is calling, and Mission Beach Aquatic Centre lifeguard Danny Foersfrank is keeping an eye on swimmers and catching up on what's happening around the region in Cassowary Coast Life.
The Year 12 student at Tully State High School works part-time at the pool, where he has a pretty cool spot to spend the warmer months. With graduation just around the corner, Danny is looking forward to finishing school and considering his next adventure.
He plans to stay in the area initially, working at the pool for a while before heading off to travel – preferably “somewhere with a very different, cooler, climate,” he says.
For now, you'll find Danny poolside, catching up on the news and helping everyone stay safe in the water.
Julie Dean in her Tully salon where she employs seven staff and trains the next generation of local beauty therapists. Photo credit: Helen Cook
What began as a small home-based beauty business while raising two young children has blossomed into a thriving Tully salon, employing seven staff and offering an extensive range of beauty treatments.
For local businesswoman Julie Dean, the growth of Julie’s Beauty Spot has been an unexpected journey since she first opened her doors in 1998.
“I started from home first because I had two little babies, and it was only ever meant to be just a couple of days a week, just to keep my hand in,” Julie said.
“It was never meant to be what it's become!”
After seven years working from home, Julie moved into premises in Still Street, where the business expanded and she began employing and training local young women.
“I’ve trained a lot of young girls over the years, and loved it,” she said.
Through school-based and other traineeships, Julie has helped young women gain qualifications and practical experience in beauty therapy, including makeup, lashes and brows.
Her commitment to her team is reflected in the loyalty of long-serving therapists Narelle and Haylee, who have each been with her for 18 years.
The business is also a family affair. Daughter Jessica returned to Tully after five years in Canada, where she worked in the film industry as a special effects makeup artist. Today, she helps manage the salon and its social media.
Two years ago, Julie and husband Ando completed their biggest project yet transforming a former shed into a purpose-built beauty salon.
“While both of us were running our businesses, we did this after work and weekends to build what we've got. We're very proud of what we've created in here.”
Today, the salon offers everything from facials, massage and waxing to manicures, pedicures, gel and acrylic nails, lash extensions, brow treatments, spray tanning, massage and special-occasion makeup.
With Christmas parties, graduations and summer celebrations just around the corner, Julie and her team are gearing up for a busy season. Book early to secure your preferred appointment at Julie’s Beauty Spot, 8 Watkins Street, Tully. Phone 4068 2788 or visit www.juliesbeautyspot.com.
Jules celebrates 10 years in her Mission Beach boutique with new eye-catching signage. Photo credit: Helen Cook
With a love of colour, an eye for something different and a passion for helping women look and feel their best, Jules Fashions is celebrating 10 years in its current Mission Beach premises, complete with a bright new look.
Owner Ilonka Julie Whitsed, known to everyone as Jules, has marked the milestone with new signage that's hard to miss.
Having previously worked in the health industry, Jules came to Mission Beach for a sea change and discovered a new passion in fashion retail. Her business journey began in 2014, when she took over a small, recycled clothing store on the Village Green before moving to her current premises two years later.
Today, Jules Fashions offers affordable women's clothing, jewellery, handbags, accessories and homewares, including colourful pieces from Mexico and India.
"I love clothes. I love colour. It's my passion," Jules said.
Her philosophy is simple: offer something different, keep prices affordable and provide good old-fashioned personal service.
"Affordability more than anything," she said. "I have a few ladies who come in, and they're wanting consultations on what to wear, so I provide that as well."
Jules isn't afraid to give an honest opinion, preferring customers to leave with something that genuinely suits them rather than simply making a sale.
She also takes pride in choosing labels that complement, rather than duplicate, those stocked by other Mission Beach boutiques. It's this individuality that attracts shoppers from Cairns, Townsville and surrounding communities looking for something different.
Among her loyal customers are grey nomads who return each year, sometimes wearing outfits purchased on previous visits. While she might not always remember their faces, Jules often recognises the garments they're wearing.
And it's those relationships that make running the business so rewarding.
"I like people who walk away happy with what they've got and excited and come back and say, I've had so many comments about the clothes I'm wearing."
Visit Jules Fashions at Shop 6, The Hub Shopping Centre, Porter Promenade, Mission Beach, or phone 0477 470 449. Open from 9.30am to 3pm, six days a week, closed Tuesdays.
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U12 North Qld team with Mr Gino Paris (left) at the Cairns Carnival in the early 1980s. Photo supplied
It's time to get the old teams back together, as former FNQ Crocs, Marlins and NQ Canecutters players join generations of young footballers from across Queensland for a special reunion celebrating 70 years of the Gino Paris Carnival.
The anniversary celebration will be held in Townsville this Saturday 17th October, bringing together former players, coaches, managers, referees and supporters to reconnect, reminisce and celebrate one of Queensland's longest-running junior football competitions.
Established in 1956 through the generosity of Ingham businessman Gino Paris, who donated a trophy to encourage junior representative soccer, the Under-12 carnival became a much-anticipated event on Queensland's football calendar.
For seven days, young players from across the state came together to compete, develop their skills and form friendships that often lasted long after the final whistle.
The Cassowary Coast has a proud connection to that history, with the Johnstone River Soccer Association hosting the carnival at Silkwood in 1985 and 2005. In 2005, the NQ Canecutters took home the coveted cup, under manager Geoff Green and coach John Frost.
Among those representing Far North Queensland in the green and gold jerseys of the FNQ Crocs were players from Mission Beach, Tully, Silkwood, Innisfail and surrounding districts.
The 2005 team included Ben Murray, James Orr, Scott Dellaway, Grayson Pedroni, Luke Brown, Matthew Moran and Dylan Bettini, under coach Danny Schmidt, assistant coach Jason Jia and manager Michael Plunkett.
Two decades on, organisers are hoping the anniversary will bring back plenty of familiar faces, rekindle old friendships and revive memories of those junior football days.
A special guest will be Australian football legend Les Scheinflug AM, a former Socceroos captain and national coach who dedicated much of his career to developing young footballers. Inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame, Scheinflug is widely regarded as a pioneer of Australian youth football.
The reunion will also recognise the countless volunteers, coaches and families who made the carnival possible, often travelling hundreds of kilometres and giving up a week of their time to support their teams.
For more information, contact Carla Dal Santo on 0438 832 622 or Adriane Paris on (07) 4776 6612, or visit the Gino Paris Carnival 70 Year Anniversary Facebook page.
An upcoming country and western night is set to fundraise for the future of Garradunga Hall. Photo supplied
A night of country music, dancing, food and fundraising is set to help bring Garradunga Hall back to life, with locals invited to dust off their cowboy boots and celebrate the historic venue.
The Save the Garradunga Hall Country and Western Night will take place on Saturday 17th October, featuring live local bands, line dancing, a food van serving up meals, a bar, soft drinks and raffle prizes.
Organised by the Garradunga Progress Association, the event comes as a renewed committee works to secure the future of the hall, which has been a gathering place for the farming community since it officially opened in 1930.
Over the decades, the hall has hosted dances, parties, weddings, birthday celebrations and community gatherings. Earlier this year, its future looked uncertain after years of reduced activity, prompting committee members to step up efforts to raise awareness, attract support and cover ongoing expenses.
Those efforts have already seen association membership grow from eight to 88, alongside fundraising initiatives, generous donations and support from local businesses.
“In an era of uncertainty, economic challenges and rush and stress, we need places to gather where time slows down while we meet for recreation, classes, new activities or good old fashioned fun,” shared a spokesperson from the Garradunga Progress Association.
“This is what the Garradunga Hall, with its high ceilings, corrugated iron walls, hatch windows and timber floors, still provides – a glimpse and a feel of quieter, more peaceful times past, when we were more focussed on personal connection than the internet, phones and tv.
“We want to preserve this treasure - this atmosphere and this venue for our young people and their children! As canefields are being replaced by bananas, galangal and taro, we want to welcome our new residents. Many Hmong and Indian families have now made this area home, and we would love the hall to become a place where they too can forge new friendships and make precious memories.”
Entry is free for association members, $10 for adults, and free for children under 16. To RSVP or find out more, contact the Garradunga Progress Association at garradungaprogress@gmail.com or Ian on 0437 474 488.
Daryl Dickson in her studio. Photo supplied
For Cardwell wildlife artist Daryl Dickson, the endangered mahogany glider is much more than a subject for her paintings. It has shaped her life and decades of dedication to protecting North Queensland’s wildlife.
This evening, Daryl will share her knowledge and experiences at C4’s Science in the Pub at Shanti Café in Mission Beach, introducing audiences to one of Australia’s rarest and least-known marsupials.
Rediscovered in 1989 after being lost to science for more than a century, the mahogany glider survives in a limited area of North Queensland, where habitat loss and fragmentation threaten its future.
“It’s still a very unknown species,” Daryl said. “The more people know about it, the better chance they’ve got of making good decisions that don’t harm the landscape or the animals that rely on it.”
Her presentation will explore the glider’s remarkable characteristics, its habitat and the conservation efforts underway to secure its survival.
Daryl’s connection with the Wet Tropics began in 1988, when a hot-air ballooning trip from Adelaide introduced her to the region.
“I couldn’t believe the colour, and the forests, and the wildlife,” she recalled. “There was just something so magic about this place.”
In 1993, she and husband Geoff Moffatt left their telecommunications careers behind and moved north, eventually building their own home beside Myunga Creek in the Kennedy Valley. They later discovered their property was important mahogany glider habitat, sparking decades of involvement in conservation and wildlife rehabilitation.
Today, their Mungarru Lodge Sanctuary helps injured and orphaned gliders and possums prepare for release into the wild. A large enclosure allows recovering animals to rebuild the strength and fitness needed to survive in their natural environment. That close connection with wildlife also informs Daryl’s art.
“What they give me in return is this close contact and the ability to observe them moving naturally and doing things that they do, which informs my art,” she said.
For Daryl, art and conservation are inseparable, shaped by more than three decades living among the animals she paints.
“We’re just another animal in their forest,” she said.
Tuesday’s presentation offers an opportunity to discover the extraordinary mahogany glider through the eyes of someone who has devoted much of her life to understanding and protecting it.
1. Born to glide: Mahogany gliders can glide up to 60 metres between trees and rarely come to ground.
2. Family life: They breed once a year, producing one or two young cared for by both parents. Each pair defends a territory of approximately 20 hectares.
3. Rare and endangered: Found nowhere else on Earth, mahogany gliders were rediscovered in 1989 after more than a century lost to science.
Source: Fact Sheet, Mungarru Lodge Sanctuary
Mayor Teresa Millwood uses her Waste Disposal Voucher – have you?
This week Mayor Teresa Millwood led by example using her Waste Disposal Voucher after clearing her property in preparation for disaster season.
Council encourages all residents to remain on high alert despite a drier start to the season.
“Cassowary Coaster’s are built different when it comes to severe weather,” shared Council.
“A drier start to the season doesn’t mean we can afford to be complacent. Now is the time to get ready.”
Every rate payer in the region has received a waste disposal voucher with their latest rate notice.
This voucher can be used to dispose of a load of eligible dry household waste.
“It’s a great chance to clear out unwanted items around your home and yard before monsoon rains and cyclone season get underway,” said Council.
The Get ready Queensland campaign encourages all residents to:
And don’t forget to bookmark the Cassowary Coast Disaster Dashboard — your best address in a disaster.
Lion Sue Hart (President), Lion Callan Ihle (Vice President) and Lion Caroline Dyer, outside Cardwell State School with the donated Front Row Sound System. Photo supplied
Cardwell Lions Club is continuing its support of local students, recently donating a Front Row Sound System valued at $1,875 to Cardwell State School.
The specialised sound system will assist students with diagnosed hearing impairments, while also supporting teachers and students in general classroom situations by helping ensure instructions and discussions can be heard clearly.
The donation is part of Cardwell Lions Club’s ongoing commitment to supporting the needs and wellbeing of the Cardwell community, particularly its younger residents.
“One very important consideration is support for our young citizens during their important school years,” the organisation said.
Cardwell Lions Club was formed in 1968 and is celebrating 58 years of service to the community this year.
Anyone interested in joining Cardwell Lions can contact Membership Officer Lion Callan Ihle on 0424 079 925.
The club meets on the third Sunday of each month at the Lions Hall from 9.30am.
Senator Susan McDonald presenting the 2026 Spotlight Master Fisherman of the Year to Darcy Fazio Photo supplied: Rebecca Zaghini
Local fishing industry achievements were celebrated during an awards evening held at Cloakey Restaurant on September 25th as part of the Spotlight on Hinchinbrook Seafood Expo.
The evening recognised the dedication, experience and sustainability efforts of fishermen who contribute to the region’s seafood industry.
Darcy Fazio was named the 2026 Spotlight Master Fisherman of the Year, with Senator Susan McDonald presenting the award.
Allan Bobbermen was recognised with the Lifetime of Achievement Award, presented by Deputy Mayor Mary Brown in acknowledgement of his longstanding contribution to the industry.
A posthumous award for the achievement Lifetime of Service was presented to Walter Putzka by Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa MP, with his wife, Lisa Putzka, accepting the honour on his behalf.
John Taifalos received the Most Sustainable Fisher award, presented by Kylie Dunstan of the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation (FRDC), recognising his commitment to sustainable fishing practices.
Pavement rehabilitation maintenance works set to begin on Ingham–Forrest Beach Road. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
Contributed with thanks by the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR)
Motorists travelling along Ingham–Forrest Beach Road can expect changed traffic conditions, with pavement rehabilitation maintenance works having recently commenced approximately four kilometres west of Forrest Beach.
The Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) advises works will take place through to Saturday, 24th October, between 7am and 5pm, weather and construction conditions permitting.
Motorists should allow extra travel time, with single-lane closures, moderate delays and reduced speed limits expected throughout the work zone. Traffic controllers will be onsite during active construction hours, while automatic traffic signals will operate outside these hours.
Access to all properties will remain open throughout the works. Drivers may also experience noise from heavy machinery and should follow all traffic control directions and reduced speed limits.
Variable message signs and advance warning signs will be installed on approaches to the work site to alert motorists to changed conditions.
TMR thanked motorists in advance for their patience and understanding while the rehabilitation works are completed.
For current road conditions, check the QLDTraffic website or call 13 19 40.
Epaderm is a versatile skincare range designed to help moisturise, soothe and protect dry and sensitive skin. Photo supplied: Hinchinbrook Community Pharmacy
Love Your Skin With Epaderm!
Dry, itchy or sensitive skin? Give your skin some extra love with Epaderm!
This week at Hinchinbrook Community Pharmacy, we’re shining the spotlight on Epaderm — a trusted, versatile skincare range designed to help moisturise, soothe and protect dry and sensitive skin.
Whether it’s dry winter skin, eczema-prone skin or simply skin that needs a little extra TLC, Epaderm can be a fantastic addition to your everyday skincare routine. Its emollient formulations help moisturise the skin and provide a protective layer to help prevent moisture from escaping.
And the best part? Epaderm is incredibly versatile! Depending on the product, it can be used as a moisturiser, cleanser or bath additive, making it an easy choice for the whole family.
For beautifully moisturised skin, regular application is key, especially after bathing or showering. Apply while your skin is still slightly damp to help seal in that much-needed moisture.
Pop into Hinchinbrook Community Pharmacy this week and discover why Epaderm could become a new favourite in your family’s skincare routine!
Our friendly team is always here to help you choose the right product for your skin. Hinchinbrook Community Pharmacy — your local team for healthy, happy skin!
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