Lee Porter, Don Porter and Allison Chellingworth. Photo Credit: Meals on Wheels  

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Cardwell Meals on Wheels Inc. held its 45th Annual General Meeting and Dinner at the Cardwell RSL on 16th October.

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During the meeting, the committee for 2026/2027 was elected, with all key roles reinstated from the previous year.

Don Porter (President), Allison Chellingworth (Treasurer), Lee Porter (Secretary), Lynn Crawford (Assistant Secretary) and Sue Hart, Katrina O’Brien, Peta Johnson, Carol Palmer, Mandy McGree, Caroline Dyer, and Arlie Robinson (Committee Members).

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The annual meeting honours the legacy of the Cardwell Meals on Wheels, paying respect to the past leadership committees of the corporation.

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Cardwell Meal on Wheels will continue to support those in need, working together in an already established working dynamic.  

The Annual General Meeting was celebrated with volunteers, clients, guests and kitchen staff from Churches of Christ.  

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As the night progressed past the official segment, the evening was filled with events like a quiz competition and spot raffle.  

The food was provided by Terry and Mamiko and was well loved by all of the guests.  

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Anyone interested in volunteering for our organisation, please contact our Convenor, Lisa Cartwright, on 0428980104, or email cardwellmow@hotmail.com

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Cassowary Coast Council’s Director Infrastructure Services David Goodman receiving the award at IPWEA 2026. Photo supplied

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Mission Beach’s $20 million CBD Revitalisation project has taken top honours at the 2026 Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia Queensland & Northern Territory Excellence Awards, earning recognition alongside major infrastructure developments from some of Queensland’s largest councils.  

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Winning the Projects over $10 million category, the project was celebrated for its significant transformation of the town centre, renewing key public spaces, improving infrastructure and creating a more welcoming CBD while preserving the relaxed tropical character that makes Mission Beach so special.

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Mission Beach CBD Acknowledged In Excellence Awards

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The $20 million Mission Beach CBD Revitalisation project took top honours at the 2026 Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia Queensland & Northern Territory Excellence Awards last month, recognising the significant transformation of the local town centre.

Mayor Teresa Millwood said the win was a credit to everyone involved in delivering the project.

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“This award is a real credit to the professionalism, dedication and hard work of everyone involved in delivering the Mission Beach CBD Revitalisation,” she said.

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“We are proud to see a regional council project recognised alongside major infrastructure projects from some of the biggest councils in Queensland, and we thank our staff, contractors, local businesses and community for helping make it possible.”

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The project secured the win in the Projects over $10 million category, impressing judges in a strong field of finalists.

Council said it was thrilled to see the quality of work involved in delivering the $20 million project recognised alongside much larger entries from some of Queensland’s biggest local governments.

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Competing projects in the category included Logan City Council’s $80 million Loganlea Road Major Upgrade, Burke Shire Council’s $90 million Floraville Road Recovery Upgrade, and City of Moreton Bay’s Sparkes Road / Ellis Street Intersection Upgrade.

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The Mission Beach CBD Revitalisation transformed the heart of the township, delivering a revitalised Village Green and Porter Promenade, stormwater drainage renewal, road and footpath reconstruction, intersection improvements, new streetscapes, outdoor dining areas, public art, lighting, landscaping and improved beach access.

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The project addressed ageing infrastructure and helped renew confidence in the Mission Beach town centre, while preserving the relaxed tropical character valued by the local community.

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“This award recognises a whole-of-organisation effort, including contributions from our planning, design, procurement, contracts, finance and project delivery teams, our construction crews, contractors, consultants, and staff who kept the community informed throughout delivery,” Council said.

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“We also thank the Mission Beach community and local businesses for their support throughout the project, which helped deliver a result that will benefit the township for years to come.”

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More than 25 people attended the From Pub to Paddock event, with a special session focusing on Pigs, Pests & Weeds. Photo supplied: Cassowary Coast Council

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More than 25 interested community members gathered together at the Mena Creek Hotel last week for Council’s final From Pub to Paddock event of the year, with a special session focusing on Pigs, Pests & Weeds.

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“It was especially great to see so many local farmers from the Mena Creek and Utchee Creek areas getting involved, asking questions about weed identification and treatment options, sharing their experiences with feral pig problems and discussing different approaches to managing these challenges,” said a Council spokesperson.

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“And that's exactly what these sessions are about – bringing people together, sharing local knowledge and finding practical ways to tackle the issues affecting our land and environment.

“A big thank you to everyone who joined us at Mena Creek and Euramo!”

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Council stated that they have a small internal team tackling some big issues, and thanks to events like this, they feel the support and camaraderie of the broader community.

“Managing invasive weeds and feral pigs takes a collective effort from landholders, industry, community and all levels of government,” they said.

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“Your willingness to show up, ask questions and share your experiences is what makes these conversations so valuable.

Council will take some time over the Christmas period to reflect on what's worked, what they can improve and what these sessions could look like in the future.

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“Until then, thank you for supporting our team and helping keep the conversation going!”

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Dr Rob Magarey and William Moran outside the former Tully Visitor Information Centre, one step closer to realising their vision for an agricultural heritage centre. Photo credit: Helen Cook

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The former Tully Visitor Information Centre is one step closer to a new lease of life, with Cassowary Coast Regional Council approving a Facility Use Agreement with the Wet Tropics Agricultural Heritage Centre. The agreement is subject to conditions, including a decision on the future of the Australian Sugar Heritage Centre's collection, formerly housed at Mourilyan, and provision for the Tully Arts and Cultural Precinct group.

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The decision, announced on 30th October, follows months of interest in the prominent Bruce Highway site from two community organisations, each with ambitious plans for its future.

For the Wet Tropics Agricultural Heritage Centre, the approval is a significant step towards establishing a permanent home for the region's agricultural history, including the sugar, banana, timber and cattle industries.

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The project gained momentum following the closure of the Australian Sugar Heritage Centre at Mourilyan after Cyclone Jasper in December 2023.

Committee members William Moran and Rob Magarey have been working with industry representatives and community supporters to establish a centre incorporating historical collections, machinery, photographs and personal stories.

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Their plans also include reopening visitor information services and encouraging travellers to explore Tully and the wider Cassowary Coast.

Dr Magarey welcomed Council's commitment but cautioned that the project still depends on a decision by the Australian Sugar Heritage Centre regarding its collection and associated funding, with Gordonvale also under consideration.

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"We've cleared the first hurdle. There are a couple more after that, with a meeting this week, so we'll see how we go," he said after receiving the news.

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Meanwhile, local artist and arts advocate Dr Valerie Keenan, who has been leading efforts to establish a permanent Tully Arts and Cultural Precinct, congratulated the agricultural heritage group and wished them every success.  

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While Council's agreement includes provision for the arts group to retain current space in the building, Dr Keenan said ambitions extended beyond this arrangement.

"We appreciate the consideration given to our group, but our long-term vision is for a dedicated home for arts and culture in Tully," she said.

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"Support for a Tully Arts & Cultural centre continues to grow stronger, and we hope Council will recognise the important role arts and culture play in bringing people together and enriching our community. We remain committed to making that vision a reality."

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Mayor Teresa Millwood acknowledged the important contribution of community organisations.

"These agreements recognise the strong role local organisations play in delivering services, activities and opportunities that matter to their communities, from small rural recreation facilities through to tourism, environmental and heritage activation.

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"We thank these community organisations for working with us to help ensure valued community assets continue to be used, improved and enjoyed for local benefit across the Cassowary Coast."

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Janae Pearce and Tilly Poppi crowned as Maraka royalty. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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By Victoria Velton

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The 2026 Maraka Festival has crowned its new Queen and Princess, with Janae Pearce and Tilly Poppi taking centre stage during a celebration that drew strong community support and renewed interest in the annual traditions.

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Janae Pearce was crowned 2026 Maraka Queen with Brianna Lamari named runner-up, while Tilly Poppi took out the Maraka Princess title, followed by runner-up Lucy Egan. Kadence Torrisi was awarded Maraka Princess Miss Personality.

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For Janae, the win was an emotional moment, bringing her Maraka journey full circle after she was crowned Princess eight years ago.

“Absolutely surreal. I feel like I'm living out all my little Janae's fantasies,” she said.

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“Being princess eight years ago to now, fast forward, being queen, I am completely shocked, grateful, and excited for this opportunity.”

“I've got so many ideas- I want to bring back some very old Maraka traditions while keeping it fun and fresh for the new generation,” she said.

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Her advice to future entrants was to enjoy the experience, regardless of the result.

“It doesn't matter if you win or lose. At the end of the day, we're here together as a community to support one another, and by far you will enjoy every moment,” she said.

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New Maraka Princess Tilly Poppi said the experience had been both nerve-racking and rewarding.

“I feel very proud of myself, and I was very nervous before, and now I feel relieved, and I'm very happy,” she said.

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“The journey to get here was very nerve wracking, but it was very fun, and I loved doing it with all my friends.”

Outgoing 2025 Maraka Queen Ainsley DiMaggio said handing over the crown was bittersweet, but she was excited for the new titleholders.

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“It's amazing. It is a lot of work, but give back to your community as much as possible,” she said.

“I'm so excited to be able to give [the titles] to two beautiful ladies, and they're going to do amazing.”

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Mayor Ramon Jayo said this year's festival had been well supported, with the turnout reflecting the community's enthusiasm for coming together.

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He said he had initially been concerned that competing events, including the Australian Test in Townsville, could affect attendance, but was pleased to see the community embrace the celebrations.

“The festival is about celebrating our community, so it's really good to see the community come out and spend time with each other, have a yarn and celebrate together,” he said.

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The Mayor also welcomed the increased number of Queen and Princess entrants, saying the interest boded well for the future of the festival.

“People are embracing it, and we're starting to get back to the real level of energy for Maraka,” he said.

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The Queen and Princess Quest organisers thanked the entrants, coordinators, judges, committee members and sponsors who helped bring the celebrations together.

Rachel Cauchi Optometrists sponsored the Maraka Queen Quest, while BK Bartolini Concreting and Earthworks sponsored the Princess Quest.

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The new titleholders will represent the festival and the Hinchinbrook community throughout the year.

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Mind & Body: Reformed in Mission Beach has six reformers in her fully air-conditioned studio

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Whether you're 16 or 86, a fitness enthusiast or someone who hasn't exercised in years, Alicia Roelofs has a place for you at Mind & Body: Reformed in Mission Beach.

And she's particularly keen to encourage more men to discover the benefits of reformer Pilates.

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"Everybody gets the same benefits," Alicia said.  

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"You improve your posture, your core strength, your muscle strength and muscle definition."

Alicia recently invited clients to bring their partners along for a free class, with some of the men surprised to discover just how challenging Pilates can be.

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"I think they have this image in their mind that it's really easy. But it's actually not!"

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With just six reformers in her fully air-conditioned studio in Mission Beach, Alicia keeps classes small, friendly and personalised, adapting exercises to suit different ages, fitness levels and abilities.

Her oldest regular participant is 83 and attends the popular Mobility and Movement classes, designed to improve flexibility, posture and strength without placing unnecessary pressure on joints.

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Other options include full-body circuits, toning, jump classes, stretching and myofascial release, with new strength training classes planned from mid-November.

But what really sets Mind & Body: Reformed apart is Alicia's flexibility.

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Can't find a class time that suits? Bring your own group together!

"If I had six men who wanted to come along on a Wednesday at six o'clock, we could organise that," Alicia explained.

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The same invitation extends to groups of friends, workmates, sporting teams and teenagers. Whether it's a regular weekly session, a four-week introduction or training tailored to a particular goal, Alicia is happy to explore arrangements that suit everyone.

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With Christmas approaching, she's also encouraging friends and work teams to consider a Pilates or relaxation session as something different for their end-of-year gathering.

Regular classes run Monday to Thursday, with Saturday sessions offered according to demand. Casual bookings and flexible class packs mean there's no need to commit to the same time every week.

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Tully State High School's Glenda Tenni with Year 12 student Saniya Singh in the school's e-learning centre.

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World Teachers' Day, celebrated across Queensland on Friday 30th October, was an opportunity to recognise the remarkable people who educate, encourage and inspire our children. And at Tully State High School, few know the rewards of teaching better than Glenda Tenni whose connection to the school stretches back more than half a century.

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Glenda's education began at Feluga State School, where she followed in the footsteps of her mother and siblings, before moving to Tully State High School as a student in 1970.

It was here that commerce teacher Bernadette Cuoco helped inspire her future career.

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"I just enjoyed my subjects. I had a good teacher and I excelled at my subjects. And I always thought, this is what I want to do," Glenda recalled.

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After completing teacher training at Kelvin Grove College in Brisbane, Glenda taught in Charters Towers and Ingham before returning to Tully. She later stepped away from teaching to raise her family and help run the family bulk fuel business. But the classroom eventually called her back.

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For the past 26 years, Glenda has been a familiar face at Tully State High School, initially teaching commerce before becoming the school's e-learning coordinator in 2014.

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It's a role that has opened new opportunities for students, allowing them to study subjects not offered through the school's regular curriculum, including economics, accounting and philosophy, as well as undertaking TAFE qualifications and school-based traineeships.

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Around 122 students have participated in e-learning this year, Glenda says many arrive as early as 8am to begin their studies. Among them is Year 12 student Saniya Singh who is completing a Certificate II in Skills for Work and Vocational Placement. For Glenda, it's this individual support that makes the role particularly rewarding.

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"I really enjoy my job as e-learning coordinator. You get to know students on a more personal level," she said. And while Glenda will celebrate her 70th birthday next year, retirement isn't on the agenda just yet. "Not while I still think I've got something to give," she said.

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Glenda’s story perfectly captures this year's World Teachers' Day theme, 'Teachers change lives'. Inspired by one of her own teachers more than 50 years ago, Glenda continues to make a difference for the next generation.

Celebrating All Our Teachers  

As schools across the Cassowary Coast celebrated World Teachers' Day on Friday, Cassowary Coast Life joins the community in thanking every teacher for their dedication, patience and encouragement, and the countless ways they help young people achieve their potential.

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The Kauri pines lining Butler Street beside the Tully Showgrounds. Image credit: Helen Cook

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By Helen Cook

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For almost 90 years, the magnificent Kauri pines lining Butler Street beside the Tully Showgrounds have stood watch over the town, surviving cyclones, changing streetscapes and generations of community life.

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Now, the possibility that some may need to be removed has sparked considerable discussion on social media, with locals sharing memories, expressing concern and questioning what might be done to preserve them.

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Thanks to research shared by local historian Helen Pedley, we know the remarkable story behind these trees. Cardwell Shire Council minutes from April 1937 record the decision to plant 12 trees alongside the showgrounds and three opposite, commemorating the coronation of King George VI.

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A procession made its way to the showgrounds, where Shire Chairman Cr Bryce Henry officially planted the trees, accompanied by speeches, music, dancing and celebrations.

The road was even named Coronation Avenue, although it was formally confirmed as Butler Street in 1995.  

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Over the years they've certainly weathered their share of storms. Cyclone Yasi in 2011 stripped them almost bare, leaving what Mayor Teresa Millwood recently described as enormous matchsticks.

Responding to community concerns on social media regarding their removal, Mayor Millwood acknowledged their historical importance while explaining Council's responsibility for public safety.  

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She confirmed assessments were continuing, with no final decision made, although she stated that some trees had sustained damage beyond repair.

Local arborist Mark Gough of Gough Tree Services offered another perspective, suggesting that while two trees showed signs of rot likely to warrant removal within the next couple of years, the remainder appeared relatively healthy and structurally sound.

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"There is no reason they can't continue to be managed and monitored into the future," he  

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Next year, Tully's Coronation pines turn 90. Some residents are calling for the community to celebrate their remarkable history while working together to preserve as many as safely possible.

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Volunteers from left, standing: Mike, Louis and Michael; sitting Pauline (MOW Committee Member & Convenor), Dina and Chrissie

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It was a morning of friendship, laughter and appreciation as Tully Meals on Wheels volunteers gathered for their annual thank you morning tea, celebrating the people who generously give their time to support others.

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Held at the Tully Leagues Club, the gathering was an opportunity for President Leslee Morgan to thank the more than 40 volunteer cooks, kitchen assistants and drivers who keep this much-loved community service running.

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In the last financial year alone, volunteers prepared and delivered 4,593 meals, providing not just nutritious food but a friendly face and welcome connection for local residents.

Among those celebrating was 90-year-old Pauline Edwards, whose remarkable association with Tully Meals on Wheels stretches back to its beginnings in 1979.

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"I went to the first meeting to see whether Tully needed a Meals on Wheels," Pauline recalled.

Little did she know that 47 years later, she'd still be helping coordinate thousands of meals each year.

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Today, Pauline is the kitchen convener, overseeing menus, ordering supplies and coordinating the volunteers who keep everything running smoothly.

From humble beginnings, when just three people received meals on the first delivery day, the service has grown to provide around 30 meals each Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

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And the favourites? Fish on Fridays, spaghetti and homemade soups, often featuring whatever fresh ingredients are available.

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Over the years, Meals on Wheels has supported countless residents, from older people living independently to those recovering from illness or needing temporary assistance.

New volunteers are always welcome to help when regular volunteers aren’t available.  

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To lend a hand, contact Tully Meals on Wheels on 4068 1497.

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Serving up thanks to a dedicated team  
As the volunteers gathered for their annual morning tea, it was a reminder that the strength of Meals on Wheels lies not just in the meals prepared and delivered, but in the friendships, kindness and community spirit that have sustained it for almost half a century.

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Students from Our Lady of Lourdes, St Peter’s Catholic School and Gilroy Santa Maria College joined the Big Red Walk on October 30^th, creating a sea of red in support of Day for Daniel and the Daniel Morcombe Foundation. Photo source: Our Lady of Lourdes & St Peter’s Catholic School

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By Victoria Velton

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Three Hinchinbrook schools joined forces on October 30th, creating a sea of red as students and staff took part in a Big Red Walk to promote child safety and support the Daniel Morcombe Foundation.

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Our Lady of Lourdes, St Peter’s Catholic School and Gilroy Santa Maria College came together for the annual event, which honours Daniel Morcombe and supports the work of his parents, Bruce and Denise Morcombe, who established the Daniel Morcombe Foundation following their son's death.

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The Foundation provides personal safety education to children and young people, encouraging them to recognise, react and report when they feel unsafe.

Before setting off on their walk to the Botanical Gardens, students at Our Lady of Lourdes heard from Christie and Megan from the Student Protection Team at Townsville Catholic Education.

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“Our students [were reminded] of the importance of feeling safe every day, knowing their rights and understanding that their safety matters,” a spokesperson for the school said.

Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa also marked the event, acknowledging the work of Bruce and Denise Morcombe and praising their commitment to improving child safety across Australia.

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“We remember Daniel Morcombe and honour his parents, Bruce and Denise, whose extraordinary strength and tireless work in his memory continue to help keep children safe across Australia,” Mr Chiesa said.

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He said the Foundation had helped children learn to recognise, react and report unsafe situations, while Daniel's Law was helping parents and guardians better protect their children.

The schools thanked Queensland Police Service Highway Patrol and Police Liaison Officer Michelle Jardine for helping keep students safe along the walking route.

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selectability has supported thousands of people across regional Queensland on their NDIS journey. Photo supplied

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Whether it's accessing the right supports, strengthening community connections, building independence or pursuing personal goals, selectability has supported thousands of people across regional Queensland on their journey towards achieving their NDIS aspirations.

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For more than five years, the dedicated Ingham team has been helping local participants make the most of their NDIS plans through a range of personalised supports. From in-home and community-based assistance to support coordination and Clubhouse programs, the team empowers people to build independence, develop meaningful connections and achieve their goals.

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Chief Operating Officer Aaron Farrell said the team was committed to providing tailored support to build independence, create connections and enrich the lives of Ingham locals.  

"We believe that everyone deserves to live the life of their choice, regardless of their location, circumstances, diagnosis or situation," said Aaron.  

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"We understand that everyone is different, so we prioritise person-centred support alongside practical tools and strategies to enhance an individual's quality of life and support them to achieve their goals."  

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The team also provides support for those not on the NDIS or looking to apply, so if you or someone you care for is interested, pop into the Mental Health Hub at the Canegrowers Building, 11-13 Lannercost Street, Ingham and have a chat with the team.  

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You can find out more information on available NDIS services or the Clubhouse group program timetable at selectability.com.au.

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Abergowrie State School Principal Laura-Beth Martin with the 2026 Showcase School Award. Photo supplied

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By Victoria Velton

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Abergowrie State School has taken out a Queensland Showcase School Award, with its small rural school community earning state recognition for its work in early years education.

The school was named the 2026 Showcase School Award winner for Excellence in Early Years Education (Kindergarten to Year 2), announced at a ceremony at Parliament House in Brisbane on World Teachers’ Day.

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For Principal Laura-Beth Martin, the award is a proud moment for the school and recognition of what a small rural community can achieve.

“To stand alongside some of Queensland's larger primary schools and be recognised at a state level reinforces an important message: the size of a school does not determine the size of its impact,” Ms Martin said.

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“Being a small rural school does not mean having smaller ambitions, fewer opportunities or a lesser vision for our students.”

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Ms Martin said the achievement reflected the work of the school's educators, the strength of its community connections and a shared commitment to giving children a strong start to their education.

“At Abergowrie, we are proud of what can be achieved when passionate educators, strong community connections and a shared commitment to children's learning come together,” she said.

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She said the school's team was central to the recognition, praising their dedication to providing quality teaching and building strong foundations for every child.

“As Principal, I am incredibly proud of our dedicated team. Their passion, commitment and genuine care for every child are what make our little school so special,” Ms Martin said.

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The school's approach to early learning extends from its Cheeky Monkeys Playgroup and Kindy through to the primary years, with a focus on high-quality teaching, meaningful learning experiences, building strong foundations and inspiring curiosity and a love of learning.

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Ms Martin said the award belonged to the entire school community.

“This award belongs to our whole school community. It celebrates the people, the relationships and the commitment that makes Abergowrie such a wonderful place to learn and grow,” she said.

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“This recognition is a celebration of our journey, the foundations we continue to build and the belief that every child deserves an exceptional start to their education, no matter where they live or how big their school may be.”

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The award was one of nine presented to Queensland state schools at the 2026 Showcase event, recognising programs and practices making a difference to students and their communities. Showcase schools share in $120,000 in funding to help extend and share their successful work.

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“We are incredibly proud to represent rural education and to show that great things are happening in our little corner of North Queensland,” Ms Martin said.

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By Victoria Velton

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Local fisher Bradley Perkins has been appointed the new President of the Queensland Seafood Industry Association (QSIA) at the association’s annual general meeting in Bundaberg this week.

A third-generation inshore fisher from the Hinchinbrook region, Mr Perkins steps into the role following the departure of fellow North Queenslander Allan Bobbermen, who has served on the QSIA Board for 10 years, including five years as President.

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Mr Perkins acknowledged Mr Bobbermen’s passionate and dedicated leadership, recognising the significant contribution he had made to representing Queensland’s commercial fishing industry through a period of considerable regulatory change.

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He said Mr Bobbermen had been a strong advocate for commercial fishers, their families and the broader industry, helping ensure their voices and experience were represented in decisions affecting their livelihoods.

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“I am honoured to take on the role and, on behalf of the Board and our members, I thank Allan for his service and the strong foundation he leaves behind,” Mr Perkins said.

Hinchinbrook will continue to have a strong presence on the association’s board, with local seafood business owner and industry advocate Rebecca Zaghini also appointed as a director for the coming year.

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Ms Zaghini, who operates Wild Local in Ingham, joins Mr Perkins as a fellow Hinchinbrook representative, bringing her own experience and advocacy for the local seafood industry to the peak body.

The appointments provide the region with two local voices at the boardroom table, at a time when the commercial fishing sector continues to navigate regulatory pressures and the challenges of maintaining a profitable and sustainable industry.

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The QSIA represents commercial fishing businesses from the New South Wales border to the Northern Territory border, covering line, pot, net and trawl fisheries, as well as businesses supporting the industry.

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The Queensland commercial fishing industry contributed more than $250 million to the State’s gross value of production in 2021–22, supporting more than 900 businesses and around 3,000 jobs.

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Cattle wandering by the road in Hinchinbrook. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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North Queensland cattle producers are being urged to keep a close eye on their herds as warmer temperatures and increasing moisture create favourable conditions for cattle ticks to survive and spread.

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The Department of Primary Industries (DPI) is warning that conditions this spring and summer, combined with a warmer-than-average winter across much of Queensland, could increase the risk of cattle tick infestations.

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Cattle ticks can affect livestock productivity and animal health, while also transmitting the blood parasites responsible for tick fever. Early detection and proactive management are important to protecting herds and reducing the risk to farm businesses.

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Producers should regularly inspect cattle and other animals that can carry cattle ticks. These include buffalo, bison, deer, horses, sheep, goats and camelids. Newly introduced livestock should be isolated and checked for ticks before being mixed with the existing herd.

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The DPI recommends producers:

• Regularly inspect livestock for signs of cattle ticks.

• Isolate and check incoming stock before introducing them to the herd.

• Review and update their property biosecurity plan.

• Check and maintain stock-proof boundary fences to help prevent ticks entering the property.

• Conduct regular manual inspections and strengthen on-farm biosecurity measures.

• Use appropriate tick control strategies if operating within the cattle tick-infested zone. These may include planned chemical treatments or introducing tick-resistant breeds.

• Vaccinate animals against tick fever.

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If tick fever is suspected, producers should contact their veterinarian immediately.

Queensland has designated cattle tick zones, with different legal requirements applying to livestock movement. Producers should understand which zone their property is in and check the requirements before moving susceptible livestock.

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Importantly, anyone who suspects cattle ticks are present in the cattle tick-free zone must notify Biosecurity Queensland.

With conditions expected to favour tick activity in the coming months, producers are encouraged to review their biosecurity plans and remain vigilant.

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For further information about cattle tick management, treatment and livestock movement requirements, visit the Queensland Department of Primary Industries website at dpi.qld.gov.au or contact Biosecurity Queensland for advice.

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Photos supplied

Good recycling habits are paying off across the Hinchinbrook Shire, with a recent kerbside bin audit showing most material placed in recycling bins is ending up in the right place.  

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The findings, recently reported through Council’s 2025-2026 Waste Services Annual Performance Report, also reveal simple opportunities for residents to recycle even more, reduce waste sent to landfill and make the most of the recycling and recovery programs already available across the Shire.  

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The audit, which sampled households across Ingham, Halifax, Lucinda and Forrest Beach, found more than 80 per cent of material placed in yellow-lid recycling bins was recyclable, with cardboard, paper and glass among the most commonly recycled items.  

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With the recycling contamination rate of just 19.2 per cent, the lowest among councils in the North Queensland Regional Organisation of Councils region.

Mayor Ramon Jayo said the results were encouraging and highlighted the positive efforts already being made by the community.

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"More than 80 per cent of what we found in recycling bins was recyclable material, which is a great result and shows residents are making a real effort to recycle correctly," Mayor Jayo said.

"While the audit shows residents are doing a great job with recycling, there are still opportunities to recover more valuable resources.  

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“Every year, more than $220,000 in container refunds goes unclaimed by residents across the Hinchinbrook Shire, with around $130,000 worth of eligible containers ending up in red-lid bins and going straight to landfill instead of being recycled through Containers for Change.”

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Mayor Jayo said one of the easiest ways residents can reduce waste and put money back in their pockets is by taking eligible drink containers to a Containers for Change refund point.  

“It's a fantastic program that rewards recycling, keeps valuable resources out of landfill and supports community groups and charities. Every container returned is a win for both the environment and the community,” Mayor Jayo said.

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While recycling performance was strong, there is still room for improvement. The audit found nearly 14 per cent of material in red-lid bins could have been recycled instead, including paper, cardboard, plastics and glass.  

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Food scraps and garden waste accounted for a further 42 per cent of general waste bin contents.  

Water and Waste Portfolio Councillor Pat Lynch said some of the biggest opportunities to reduce landfill were sitting in household waste bins.

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“Simple actions like recycling cardboard boxes, plastic containers and glass jars, or composting food scraps and garden clippings at home, can make a significant difference,” Cr Lynch said.

The audit also identified common items incorrectly placed in recycling bins, including soft plastics (such as bags and wrappers), textiles, building materials, coffee cups, tissues and electronic waste.  

Mayor Jayo said Council offered a range of recycling and recovery options to help residents dispose of items correctly.

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“From kerbside recycling and Containers for Change to battery recycling, e-waste disposal and home composting, there are plenty of opportunities to keep valuable resources out of landfill,” Mayor Jayo said.

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The audit found e-waste and products containing embedded batteries were still ending up in household bins.  

Items with embedded batteries, such as toys, power tools, rechargeable appliances, vapes and mobile phones, should never go in household bins as they can pose a fire risk during collection and processing.

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These items can be disposed of at designated battery recycling bins located at Council’s Main Office or Council’s Resource Recovery Centres at Halifax and Warrens Hill.

To help residents recycle with confidence, Council is encouraging the community to download the free Recycle Mate app.

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Cr Lynch said Recycle Mate takes the guesswork out of recycling.  

“If you're unsure where an item belongs, simply search for it in the app and it will tell you exactly how to dispose of it,” Cr Lynch said.

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The audit found the average household generated around 10kg of general waste and 2.5kg of recycling each week.  

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Residents can download Recycle Mate free from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store and find more information about Council's waste, recycling and resource recovery programs on Council's website.  

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For those wanting to recycle more and waste less, the audit shows even small changes at home can make a significant difference.

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