Congratulations to Sam on her selection in the Queensland Referees Team for the 16–18 Years Touch Football Championships.

The achievement recognises Sam’s dedication, professionalism and strong understanding of the game, as well as her commitment to officiating at a high level.

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Representing Queensland is a significant honour and a testament to the hard work Sam has invested in her refereeing journey.

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The school community is incredibly proud of her accomplishment and wishes her all the best at the championships.

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Dog owners across the Cassowary Coast have a range of designated off-leash areas available to exercise and socialise their pets, with Council highlighting the importance of responsible use to keep both animals and the community safe.

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Cassowary Coast Regional Council has established off-leash spaces in Cardwell, Tully Heads, Tully, South Mission Beach, Wongaling Beach, Mission Beach, Kurrimine Beach, Innisfail and Cowley Beach, providing residents and visitors with accessible locations to let their dogs roam under full control.

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The designated areas, including popular spots such as Coral Sea Park in Cardwell, Wildsoet Park in Tully, and Wrights Park in Innisfail, are designed to support healthy lifestyles for pets and owners while also helping reduce conflict in sensitive environmental and wildlife areas.

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Council notes that dog off-leash areas are an important community asset, offering opportunities for physical activity, social interaction and improved wellbeing when used responsibly.

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Dog owners are reminded that even in off-leash areas, animals must remain under control and respond to commands such as recall. Owners are also required to ensure dogs are not causing a nuisance to others, and that all waste is collected and disposed of appropriately.

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Additional responsibilities include ensuring dogs are registered with Council, regularly wormed and kept up to date with vaccinations.

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Council encourages residents to follow the Cassowary Coast Good Dog Owners Guide to help maintain safe, enjoyable and well-managed spaces for all users.

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For more information or enquiries, residents can contact Cassowary Coast Regional Council on 1300 763 903 or via enquiries@cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au.

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A planned hazard reduction burn will be carried out at Dallachy Aerodrome in Cardwell from 23rd June, weather permitting, as part of ongoing fire management efforts across the Cassowary Coast.

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The operation is being undertaken by Cassowary Coast Regional Council in partnership with Girringun Aboriginal Corporation and the Queensland Fire Department (Rural Fire Service).

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The planned burn aims to restore grassland and maintain healthy habitat, reduce bushfire risk to the aerodrome and surrounding infrastructure, and create a mosaic of burnt and unburnt areas to support both environmental and fire management outcomes.

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Residents in Cardwell, Kennedy Valley and surrounding areas may notice smoke during the operation, with visibility potentially affected along the Bruce Highway. Motorists are advised to drive with caution if smoke is present.

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Authorities are advising residents to keep windows and doors closed during periods of smoke and to ensure those with respiratory conditions have necessary medication on hand. The public is also reminded not to enter closed areas while operations are underway.

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For updates on planned burns across Queensland, visit www.fire.qld.gov.au/prepare/bushfire/permit-to-burn-map.

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Coastal recovery works have entered the next phase across the Cassowary Coast. Photo source: Cassowary Coast Regional Council

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Coastal recovery efforts are continuing across the Cassowary Coast, with revegetation works now underway at Cardwell, South Mission Beach and Wongaling Beach following the completion of sand nourishment projects earlier this year.

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Cassowary Coast Regional Council announced the next stage of recovery will involve planting coastal vines, selected shade trees and undertaking vegetation management to help strengthen and protect local shorelines.

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The plants, grown by Council in partnership with C4 – Community for Coastal and Cassowary Conservation, will play a key role in stabilising dunes, reducing erosion, supporting wildlife habitats and helping beaches recover more quickly from future weather events.

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The works have been welcomed by some community members, with one resident describing the project as a “great initiative to replant the foreshore with natives” and noting that native coastal species could help reduce erosion during future cyclones and severe weather events.

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Council has reminded residents to remove any personal items from foreshore areas to allow the works to be completed safely and efficiently.

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The recovery program is being delivered with assistance from the Australian and Queensland Governments through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.

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In May Wayde Chiesa MP met with Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Brent Mickelberg, in Townsville to reaffirm the commitment towards the Bruce Highway. Photo source: Facebook  

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Building the Infrastructure Our Region Deserves

As the State Budget is handed down this week, one thing is clear: regional Queensland needs practical investment in the infrastructure that keeps our communities connected, safe and moving.

For communities across Hinchinbrook, roads are not just lines on a map. They are how families get to school, work and medical appointments. They are how freight moves, how farmers get product to market, how tourists visit our region and how emergency services respond when they are needed most.

For too long, North Queenslanders have felt they have been waiting in line for infrastructure investment, particularly when it comes to the Bruce Highway. This road is the backbone of our region, but many locals know firsthand the frustration of poor road conditions, safety concerns and closures during severe weather.

That is why continued investment in the Bruce Highway is so important. Through the Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program, we are now seeing projects progress across regional Queensland, including sections between Townsville and Ingham, Ingham and Innisfail and Innisfail and Cairns. These works are about improving safety, strengthening flood resilience, and supporting the long-term growth of our region.

Importantly, we must continue pushing for upgrades that matter locally. I have continued to advocate strongly for Gairloch and Seymour crossings, which are critical pieces of infrastructure for our community. Improving reliability, safety and flood resilience on these sections remains a key priority, and I will continue working with the Minister and department to ensure we get the right outcome.

We cannot fix years of underinvestment overnight, but we can get started. My focus is on seeing projects move from discussion and planning into delivery.

Alongside infrastructure, cost-of-living relief also matters for regional families. The recent fall in regional electricity prices is welcome news and another important step in easing pressure on households and small businesses.

Our region deserves infrastructure that matches its contribution to Queensland’s economy. I will keep fighting for better roads, safer crossings, stronger communities, and the investment Hinchinbrook needs to grow. I look forward to updating our community on the budget announcements that matter for Hinchinbrook.

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The First 5 Forever program is available through the Cassowary Coast Libraries. Photo supplied

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Residents of Kurrimine Beach and Tully Heads are now benefiting from improved digital access following the successful rollout of free community WiFi through Cassowary Coast Library & Museum Services. At Kurrimine, Mayor Millwood and Councillor Trudy Tschui were both in attendance of the rollout announcement, and at Tully Heads Councillor Chis Littlemore and Mayor Millwood where in attendance.

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Funded through the Digital Starter Grant Program, part of State Library of Queensland's Regional Digital Development project, the initiative has delivered free community WiFi at both community halls while expanding access to library services, technology support and digital learning opportunities in two of the region's coastal communities.

The project was celebrated through Community WiFi Launch and Library Outreach Days held at Kurrimine Beach Progress Hall and Tully Heads Community Hall, where local residents gathered to explore the new service, connect with library staff and learn more about the wide range of digital resources available through the library.

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Families enjoyed Cassowary Kids early literacy sessions, while community members took advantage of one-on-one technology assistance, support accessing online Council services and demonstrations of free eBooks, audiobooks, online learning platformsand other digital resources available through the library.

The initiative was developed in response to the connectivity and access challenges often experienced in smaller coastal and regional communities, where reliable internet access and digital support services can be more difficult to access.

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Importantly, the project delivers much more than internet connectivity. Funding has also enabled the creation of a roaming digital outreach kit, allowing Cassowary Coast Library & Museum Services staff to deliver technology programs, digital literacy assistance and library outreach activities beyond traditional library buildings.

The mobile technology will support ongoing outreach in communities with limited connectivity or reduced access to services, including Jumbun and other locations across the Cassowary Coast.

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As more everyday services move online, digital inclusion has become increasingly important for community participation. Accessing government services, completing online forms, applying for jobs, communicating with family and friends, managing personal affairs and pursuing lifelong learning all rely on confidence with technology and reliable internet access.

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The project aims to improve both access and confidence by providing residents with practical support close to home. Through free community WiFi, local technology assistance and regular outreach visits, community members are empowered to develop digital skills in a welcoming and supportive environment.

The launch events also marked the beginning of ongoing monthly outreach visits to both Kurrimine Beach and Tully Heads. These regular sessions will continue to provide technology support, digital literacy assistance, access to library resources, help navigating online services and opportunities for community connection.

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The success of the initiative demonstrates the value of targeted investment in regional communities and highlights the important role libraries play in fostering digital inclusion. By combining infrastructure, outreach and personalised support, the project creates lasting benefits that extend well beyond the installation of WiFi equipment.

Cassowary Coast Library & Museum Services would like to thank State Library of Queensland for its support through the Digital Starter Grant Program and looks forward to continuing to build digitally connected, informed and resilient communities across the Cassowary Coast.

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This new service has been made possible through the Digital Starter Grant Program, part of State Library of Queensland’s Regional Digital Development project, supported by the Department of Customer Services, Open Data and Small and Family Business.

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(Contributed with thanks by Veronica Ferguson, Tully Library Supervisor of the Cassowary Coast Regional Council)

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COMING UP AT CASSOWARY COAST LIBRARIES
WHAT: Author talk with Frances Dall'Alba
WHEN: Monday, 29^th of June 2026,1:00am
WHERE: Cardwell Library, 4 Balliol St, Cardwell

Feral pigs can survive and thrive in many environments, culling them protects natural flora and fauna, alongside preventing mass amounts of environmental and agricultural damage. Photos sourced: Terrain NRM

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Feral pigs are causing widespread damage across Australia’s agricultural land, waterways and natural environments, with calls for stronger action as regional communities continue to battle the growing pest population.

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Federal concerns have been raised about the escalating feral pig problem, with estimates suggesting millions of pigs are spread across the country and significant control efforts required each year just to prevent numbers from increasing.

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The invasive animals are blamed for damaging crops, destroying fencing, contaminating waterways, spreading disease and impacting native ecosystems.

Senator Susan McDonald said urgent action was needed to support farmers and regional communities dealing with the impacts of feral pigs.

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“Across Australia, producers are watching crops destroyed overnight, fencing ripped apart, water systems contaminated and native habitats obliterated,” Senator McDonald said.

“These pests breed rapidly, spread disease and cause untold devastation to agriculture and the environment, yet regional Australians are being left to fight this battle largely on their own.”

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Senator McDonald said a coordinated approach was needed, including long-term funding, targeted control programs and support for producers managing the impacts.

The issue is being addressed locally, with Hinchinbrook Shire Council preparing to undertake an aerial shooting program aimed at reducing feral pig populations across the region.

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The control operation will cover participating land parcels and properties from Forrest Beach in the north to Crystal Creek in the south, including areas around Capelleris and Kirkwoods Roads.

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The aerial shoot will take place, subject to suitable weather conditions, on:

Monday 22^nd June 2026, 5:00am to 7:00pm
Tuesday 23^rd June 2026, 5:00am to 7:00pm

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To support community safety, access to several areas will be restricted during the operation, including:

• National Parks Estate  

• Bronte Road  

• Halifax Bay Wetlands  

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Access to huts located on Bronte Road will be permitted outside the planned control hours.

The program is funded through support from the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation; the Department of Natural Resources, Mines, Manufacturing and Regional and Rural Development; Herbert Cane Productivity Services Limited; and HQ Plantation, in association with Hinchinbrook Shire Council.

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Council is encouraging residents to report feral pig sightings and thanked the community for their cooperation during the control program.

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Farmers across the state are set to benefit from a new land rent cap aimed at easing cost pressures on the agriculture sector. Photo source: Shutterstock

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Primary producers across North Queensland are set to receive cost-of-living relief after the Queensland Government capped land rent increases for eligible agricultural tenures at 10 per cent for the 2026–27 financial year.

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The measure is expected to deliver more than $75 million in rent relief statewide, with farmers, graziers and rural producers in regions such as Hinchinbrook and the Cassowary Coast among those set to benefit.

The cap will apply automatically to eligible primary production leases, licences and permits, helping to soften the impact of rising land valuations driven by strong seasonal conditions and ongoing demand in the agricultural sector.

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Minister for Natural Resources and Mines, Regional and Rural Development Dale Last said the policy was designed to provide certainty for producers facing ongoing cost pressures.

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“Queensland farmers and graziers are not just the backbone of our regional communities, they are a foundation stone of the wider economy,” Mr Last said.

“At a time when producers continue to face higher input costs, market volatility and global economic shifts, this measure delivers certainty and will take some pressure off the cost of doing business.”

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He said the government was focused on ensuring regional industries remained competitive and sustainable.

“When regional Queensland succeeds, the entire State succeeds,” he said.

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AgForce President Shane McCarthy welcomed the announcement, saying it would help producers plan with greater confidence.

“Having certainty around land rent costs helps producers make informed business decisions, invest with confidence and focus on running productive sustainable operations,” Mr McCarthy said.

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“A strong agricultural industry underpins regional communities, supports jobs, and contributes significantly to Queensland’s economy.”

The cap is expected to apply from July 2026.

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Up to $86.7 million has been made available nationally to help strengthen drought preparedness and resilience in regional communities. Photo source: Shutterstock

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Regional communities across the Hinchinbrook and Cassowary Coast regions are set to be part of a renewed national effort to strengthen drought preparedness, following the launch of a new funding round under the Australian Government's Future Drought Fund.

Applications are now open for organisations to deliver the next phase of the Drought Resilience Hubs program, which will establish seven hubs across Australia to support farmers and rural communities.

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The refreshed program follows an independent review and aims to provide more targeted, practical support that helps producers adopt drought-resilient practices and improve long-term sustainability.

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The hubs will focus on connecting farmers with regional experts, innovations, services and research while encouraging collaboration between industry, government agencies and local communities.

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The Australian Government has committed up to $86.7 million nationally to support the hubs through to June 2032, providing certainty for long-term drought resilience initiatives.

Expected outcomes include increased adoption of drought-resilient farming practices, improved understanding of regional drought challenges and stronger links between producers and researchers.

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Applications are open until the 10^th August, with successful applicants expected to begin delivering services from 2027. Visit www.grants.gov.au for more information.

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Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort, Hinchinbrook Shire Council Mayor Ramon Jayo, Townsville Enterprise CEO Claudia Brumme, and Townsville City Mayor Nick Dametto call for modernisation of the Sugar Code of Conduct. Photo credit: Facebook

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North Queensland’s sugar industry is being urged to prepare for the future, with regional leaders coming together to call for changes to the Sugar Code of Conduct to support innovation and long-term sustainability.

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Townsville Mayor Nick Dametto, Hinchinbrook Shire Council Mayor Ramon Jayo, Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort and Townsville Enterprise CEO Claudia Brumme recently joined up to advocate for modernisation of the code.

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North Queensland produces more than a third of Australia’s sugar, with cane growers and mills playing a vital role in the region’s economy.

Mayor Dametto said the industry needs the flexibility to explore new opportunities beyond traditional sugar production.

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“We need to ensure cane growers and mills are enabled to expand beyond sugar production into ethanol, biofuels and high-value by-products so they can capitalise on opportunities in the evolving sugar industry,” he said.

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The Sugar Code of Conduct governs commercial arrangements between sugarcane growers and mill owners, including how proceeds from exported sugar are shared.

Regional leaders say updating the code is an important step in supporting the industry as it faces changing markets, new technologies and opportunities in renewable energy.

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The call comes as North Queensland’s sugar communities continue to look towards diversification while protecting one of the region’s most important agricultural industries.

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Lesley Pryor has been recognised with an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) for her service to youth through foster care. Photo supplied

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Lesley Pryor: More Than Two Decades Of Foster Care
By Victoria Velton

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Foster carer Lesley Pryor has been recognised with an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) for her service to youth through foster care, after more than 20 years of opening her home and her heart to children in need, providing stability, support and a sense of belonging.

Lesley said the recognition came as a surprise.

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“I think the biggest thing is it’s very humbling,” she said.

“I’ve had a number of community members say to me, ‘You really deserve it, we’ve seen everything you do with the kids and in the community,’ which you don’t always realise.”

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“You just do what you do, and you don’t realise other people are looking at you and thinking, ‘Wow, you do all of that.”

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Lesley’s journey into foster care began initially as an option she was exploring without knowing exactly what the future would hold.

“We hadn’t 100 per cent decided, but we went through the training. About three quarters of the way through, we were offered our first placement, and when we took that first child in, I think it just became clear that this was what I wanted to do.”

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That first placement became a lifelong connection, with the child remaining an important part of Lesley’s life into adulthood.

“He was six when he came to live with me and he’s now 28. He still lives locally, and we still have a great relationship.”

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Lesley said some of her proudest moments have been seeing the children she cared for grow into adults while maintaining those connections.

“We’ve got quite a large number of foster children we’ve raised into adulthood that we still have really strong relationships with, and that’s probably my biggest proud moment.”

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“Watching them grow up, enjoy themselves, excel at what they excel at and make their own choices is really special.”

For Lesley, foster care is about recognising each child as an individual and supporting them to reach their potential.

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“They all have their own personalities, their own needs and wants, and you have to be open to nurturing what each individual child enjoys.”

“You can’t just assume everyone is the same. One child might love soccer, another might love something completely different. You have to be willing to support them as individuals.”

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“It’s taught me that people are incredibly resilient, and kids especially are extremely resilient.”

A strong support network has also played an important role in Lesley’s fostering journey, with family, friends and the wider community often stepping up to help.

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“It’s huge. I’ve got a brilliant network between family, friends and the community.”

“People are really thoughtful. They’ll think of you and the kids, whether it’s offering support or just doing something kind. That’s really important.”

Lesley said growing up in a close-knit family helped shape her approach to foster care.

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“My husband Mark and I both come from very close families and quite big families, so having lots of children around has always been part of our lives.”

“Fostering has opened my eyes to a lot of things and shown me just how much children can go through and how strong they can be.”

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She said one of the most important lessons she has learned is that foster children are part of their own families too.

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“As much as you make your home their home, they have other family, and that’s something you have to remember and nurture.”

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“We’re not trying to replace anyone. We’re just another part of their support network. They call us Aunty and Uncle, and that’s something really special.”

Reflecting on her years as a foster carer, Lesley said she hopes her legacy is that she always showed up for the children who needed her.

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“I would absolutely encourage people, but I would encourage them to go in with their eyes open and understand what it really means, because you are looking after someone else’s children.”

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“My husband jokes that I must enjoy banging my head against a brick wall because we’ve had some really challenging kids over the years.”

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“But I always say I want it on my headstone: ‘Lesley never gave up on anyone.’”

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Silvia Brown: A Career Of Compassionate Nursing

By Victoria Velton

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For more than three decades, Ingham nurse Silvia Brown has dedicated her career to supporting patients, families and the wider Hinchinbrook community.

That commitment was recently recognised with an Order of Australia Medal (OAM), an honour she said left her speechless.

“I was lost for words,” Silvia said.

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“It felt like; I just go to work and do my job - to be recognised with that particular medal is just unbelievable. I can’t believe that what I do would even warrant receiving a medal with that distinction.”

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“I’m honoured, very honoured, and I’m very grateful. I feel very privileged that working in the nursing profession has allowed me to interact with people.”

Silvia’s nursing journey began in 1987, inspired by her sister who was working in the profession at the time.

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“She said to me, ‘Why don’t you come nursing, see if you like it?’ and I did.”

Beginning her career at the old Ingham Hospital, Silvia started as an assistant before completing her enrolled nursing training and later becoming a registered nurse.

Her career has included roles as a discharge planner, community health nurse, and since November 2019, Chronic Disease Nurse Navigator, a position supporting patients through complex health journeys.

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Reflecting on her work, Silvia said nursing had taught her important lessons.

“It’s taught me empathy. It’s taught me to understand that even though you’re there to help people with their health journey, it’s more about respecting them and listening to them, hearing them, and treating them like an individual.”

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“I’ve been lucky because I’ve been allowed to walk with people on their journey, and that can include their end-of-life care.”

Silvia’s involvement with palliative care has been a significant part of her career, leading to her joining the local palliative care committee, helping with fundraising and support, and later volunteering with the Hurley Bus, which provides important transport assistance for community members.

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“A lot of my clients who are palliative, frail and aged have limited transport options, so that’s where the idea of the bus came from,” she said.

“Being able to get people to their appointments using this bus, and then giving back to the bus by volunteering, has been really meaningful.”

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Silvia said the strength of the Hinchinbrook community comes from the many people who quietly give their time to support others.

“We have a really great community. There are a lot of people here who volunteer their time graciously and quietly, supporting and filling the gaps for services that aren’t always provided in a small town.”

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She said the region’s diversity and resilience help bring people together, especially during challenging times.

“We get brought together through natural disasters. Ingham usually makes the news when we’re flooding and things like that, but everyone puts aside their differences and looks out for the community.”

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“Neighbours helping neighbours, our hospital helping our community, and that goes for all services.”

After so many years caring for others, Silvia feels grateful for what she has learned from those she has supported.

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“I don’t look at myself as making a difference. I just feel like I’ve been privileged in my nursing career to be influenced by other colleagues, but also by my clients and their families.”

“Everyone I come into contact with leaves a part of themselves that I learn from.”

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“I’m really grateful and honoured that someone thought highly enough of what I do and of me to nominate me.”

“To win the award is just an amazing thing, and it will probably be the highlight of my whole career.”

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Dylan training to defend his Adaptive CrossFit title. Photos supplied

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For most of his life, Dylan Crema from Tully has faced challenges that many people could never imagine. Born with Velo-Cardio-Facial Syndrome (VCFS), a genetic condition caused by a missing piece of chromosome 22q11.2, Dylan has lived with a range of associated health issues, including intellectual disability, low muscle tone, heart complications, and other medical conditions.

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Despite these challenges, Dylan was always treated the same as his three siblings. His family encouraged him to live life to the fullest and pursue his goals like any other young person.

Everything changed during the COVID-19 pandemic when Dylan discovered CrossFit. With the support of his carer and coach Tracee Tozer, he committed himself to improving his health and fitness. Through hard work, determination, and countless hours of training, Dylan lost an incredible 35 kilograms and continued to grow stronger and fitter.

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After entering a few local competitions, Dylan quickly realised he had a natural talent for the sport. Success at local events inspired him to aim higher, and before long he was competing on the international stage.

Now 26 years old, Dylan is the reigning Adaptive CrossFit World Champion in his division. Last year, he travelled to Las Vegas, where he competed against some of the world's best adaptive athletes and claimed the world title.

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This year, Dylan has once again proved he belongs among the elite. After completing the online qualification process for the Adaptive CrossFit Games, he currently sits ranked number one in the world in his division. His next challenge will take him to San Jose, California, where he will defend his world title against 10 of the best adaptive athletes from across the globe.

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Before heading to the United States, Dylan added another major achievement to his growing list of accomplishments. He recently competed at the Torian Pro, Australia's premier CrossFit competition, where he won his division against some of Australia's top adaptive athletes in the intellectual impairment category.

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Dylan's story is one of resilience, determination, and perseverance. From overcoming significant health challenges to becoming a world champion, he has shown that with support, dedication, and belief in yourself, anything is possible.

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As he prepares to defend his world title in San Jose, Dylan carries not only the hopes of his family and supporters but also serves as an inspiration to people living with disabilities everywhere. Regardless of the outcome, Dylan Crema has already proven that champions are defined not by the obstacles they face, but by the courage they show in overcoming them. Follow his amazing journey on Instagram at Dylan_cremacf

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It is good to see the harvest season getting underway; however, the process has not been entirely smooth. Ongoing showery weather continues to play havoc with paddock access for harvest machinery.

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Fortunately, the showers have been hit and miss, allowing some areas of the district to continue cutting while others have had to stand down temporarily.

Despite these challenges, the start of harvest is always an important time for our community, marking not only the beginning of crushing but also a busy and significant period across the district.

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I would like to take this opportunity to wish all our farmers, harvesting crews, and mill staff a safe and, hopefully, not overly eventful season. By working together, we can ensure the current crop is harvested as quickly and efficiently as possible.

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With international sugar prices remaining low, this season will be challenging for both growers and mills. It is therefore essential that we make the most of the crop, by putting every stick in the bin and extracting every bit of juice. Good luck to everyone.

As we move into this busy period, safety must remain a priority.

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I would like to remind everyone to stay vigilant for cane trains when travelling around the district. I also ask farmers with paddocks adjoining road and rail intersections to cut cane back from the corners wherever possible, and as early as possible in the season.

Improving visibility at and beyond these intersections will make a significant difference for all road users, including our haul out drivers. Thank you in advance for your cooperation.

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The start of crushing also brings with it one of our district’s most valued traditions: the annual Ingham Show, which has been part of our social fabric since 1883, now an incredible 143 years. This year, the show will be held on Thursday and Friday, with Friday being a public holiday in our district. The show committee has been working extremely hard to deliver a fantastic event for the community, so let’s show our appreciation by supporting them in force and enjoying the festivities with friends and family.

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For full details of times and events, please visit: https://inghamshow.com.au/

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Finally, I would like to draw your attention to an emerging issue that will have significant implications for our region. If possible, I encourage you to assist in petitioning the Federal Government regarding its intention to reduce Disaster Recovery funding. The reality is that the State holds primary responsibility for disaster management and passes delivery, along with a share of cost and risk, down to local government. If the State’s liability increases sharply under a 50/50 funding model, it has a strong incentive to manage this exposure by tightening eligibility, raising the bar for what qualifies, and shifting additional administrative and assurance burdens onto councils.

For a small, high-exposure council like Hinchinbrook Shire, the consequences are both severe and very real.

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Since 2018, Hinchinbrook has experienced nine declared disaster events, including four within a single twelve-month period, and is currently delivering a recovery program exceeding $50 million.

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A council of our size simply does not have the capacity to absorb costs pushed down from higher levels of government.

We cannot self-fund reconstruction, we cannot carry the working capital gap while waiting on constrained State funding, and we do not have the back-office capacity to take on additional compliance burdens without it directly impacting frontline delivery.

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Sign the petition https://listen2qld.com/disaster-funding and make your voice heard.

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Map of the Port Hinchinbrook Provisional Priority Development Area boundary. Image credit: Queensland Government

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The revitalisation of Port Hinchinbrook is continuing to gather momentum, with plans progressing for a major dredging project and safety upgrades set to commence within the precinct.

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Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa said the works represent another important step in efforts to open up the 140-hectare site and boost local jobs, tourism and future investment.

“Port Hinchinbrook is moving forward,” Mr Chiesa said.

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“With planning progressing, community consultation continuing and safety upgrades underway, we’re taking important steps towards unlocking the precinct’s future potential.”

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A key milestone in the next phase of the project, which was previously declared a Provisional Priority Development Area (PPDA), is the proposed dredging of the marina and surrounding waterways, which will help restore navigability and support future activity within the precinct.

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International Coastal Management, part of RPS, has been engaged as the technical lead and project manager, bringing significant experience delivering complex dredging projects across Queensland.  

Planned outcomes of the project include reinstating the waterways, Stony Creek canal and access channels to support marine rescue operations, recreational users and tourism operators.

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Safety upgrades to existing marina buildings and offices are also set to commence, helping prepare the precinct for future use.

Environmental management will also be a priority, with issues including siltation and sediment management addressed to help protect sensitive ecosystems, including the Great Barrier Reef.

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Long-term access and maintenance plans will soon be established to protect the precinct’s infrastructure and natural assets for future generations.

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“I’ll continue to keep the community updated as further milestones are reached,” Mr Chiesa said.

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More information can be found at: www.yoursay.edq.qld.gov.au/port-hinchinbrook-ppda

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Almost every week the Cardwell RSL puts on a Sunday lunch for just $10 a head. Photo credit: Cardwell RSL Sub Branch

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After impressive fundraising efforts from dedicated their volunteers, Cardwell RSL Sub Branch has donated $2,000 to the upcoming Cardwell UFO Festival, set to take place from the 6^th to the 9^th of August.

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Cardwell RSL Sub Branch president Robert Lang said the festival is a unique celebration for the region and the only event of its kind in Australia.

“Through the hard work of our volunteers, the Cardwell RSL Sub Branch is proud to be able to participate in the annual UFO Festival,” Mr Lang said.

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“Our donation of $2,000 helps the Cardwell community with this festival, and our congratulations go to Thea Ormond and her dedicated committee for organising this very entertaining event.”

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The funds were raised through a range of community initiatives run by the RSL, including their popular Sunday lunches and barbeques, which offer an affordable feed alongside fun activities like roast chook raffles and $100 Board prizes throughout the afternoon.

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The Cardwell RSL Sub Branch thanked everyone who supports their events and fundraising activities, as each contribution helps the organisation continue on their mission to give back to the community.

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