Mount Fox Road, a vital transport corridor serving residents, farmers, renewable industries and school communities, is set for a major remediation works.

The road sustained extensive damage during the February 2025 rain event, with over 35 landslip sites identified and critical drainage infrastructure compromised.

Mayor Ramon Jayo told a crowd of up to 80 people at the August Industry Breakfast held by Hinchinbrook Shire Council in conjunction with the Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Tourism that at the height of the damage, there was significant pressure to close the road completely.

“However, thanks to the dedication of local contractors and emergency crews, Council was able to maintain limited access, keeping the road open under restricted conditions,” Mayor Jayo said.

“Council has completed preliminary geotechnical assessments, with detailed design works well underway. We are preparing to go out to tender for major remediation works. This is not a short-term fix. This remediation work is undertaking full permanent repair of the sites impacted by the flooding events.”

Council started sealed pavement reconstruction on 13 August 2025, including pothole patching and surface reinstatement.

This phase is expected to take around 10 weeks, weather permitting, and Council is progressing with the planning and delivery of further works, including landslip repairs and more than $3 million in upgrades of the Mount Fox range for drainage improvements and minor road widening.

These upgrades are jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), administered through the Queensland Reconstruction Authority.

Council acknowledges the inconvenience and thanks the community for its patience. The priority remains delivering a safe and durable outcome. For updates, residents are encouraged to visit the Hinchinbrook Disaster Dashboard or contact Council’s Customer Service Centre on 4776 4600.

Tec-NQ House grade 11 boarding student Caleb has his sights set firmly on the automotive trade, splitting his week between the classroom, paid work, and hands-on experience at the Townsville Audi and Porsche dealership just down the road from Tec-NQ House boarding campus.

“I got to work on a timing belt,” said Caleb. “Each day I went to work experience, I walked because it was just up the road.”

Time in a prestigious workshop has given him confidence and clarity. “I get to help the workers in the workshop,” he commented. “Watching how they fix problems has shown me what the job is really like.”

Caleb isn’t waiting around for opportunity to knock. He’s stacking experience wherever he can, working part-time. “I also have a job at Dan’s Automotive,” said Caleb. “When I’m not doing work experience or school, I work there, where I am learning a lot.”

Head of Boarding, Luke Papworth, says Caleb’s initiative is exactly what Tec-NQ House is designed to encourage. “Caleb is taking every chance to learn; he’s balancing school, work experience, and a real job. That work ethic is what sets our students up for apprenticeships,” Luke said.

He also points to the advantage of transport and flexible staff support. “Transport is provided to the Tec-NQ Douglas co-educational campus each day, and students are driven to and from their workplaces as required,” said Luke. "That means students can get to placements, arrive on time, and focus on learning rather than logistics,” added Luke.

As a boarder, Caleb benefits from a supportive home base in Townsville. Tec-NQ House is a purpose-built boys-only boarding facility in Rosslea, providing accommodation for up to forty senior students from regional and remote Queensland so they can access Tec-NQ’s trade-focused senior school program.

The residence blends structure with a warm, homely feel. Students have 24/7 supervised care, air-conditioned double-occupancy rooms, modern communal lounges, computer access, a secure outdoor recreation area with BBQ facilities, and a basketball court.

Daily routines make success easier. An on-site professional chef prepares nutritious meals, staff run after-hours sport and social activities, and regular excursions build friendships.

“Boarding gives students independence with a safety net,” said Luke. “We set expectations around study, wellbeing and behaviour, and we’re right there to guide them. The result is young people who are ready for the workplace.”

That workplace-ready mindset is exactly what Caleb is building. He’s learning to communicate with tradespeople, follow procedures, and take pride in doing the small things right: clean tools, tidy bays, and careful checks before a car leaves the workshop. Each shift adds to his confidence.

Caleb’s next goal is clear: secure an automotive apprenticeship and keep learning on the tools. With Tec-NQ House providing structure, support and proximity to employers, and with the combination of work experience, paid work and school learning under his belt, he’s well on the way.

Keep up the great work, Caleb; your future is idling at the lights, and you’ve already got the green.

Hinchinbrook Shire Council is inviting residents to sign up to Hinchinbrook H2O, the online portal supporting digital water meters is a major step forward in smarter, more efficient water management across the Shire.

Since its rollout in 2022, the project has been helping households and Council alike better understand and manage water usage.

Jointly funded by Hinchinbrook Shire Council and the Queensland Government through the Local Government Grants and Subsidies Program, this initiative is part of Council’s long-term strategy to improve infrastructure and service delivery.

The new digital water meters provide real-time water usage data, transmitted every 60 minutes via a low-frequency radio signal — significantly weaker than a mobile phone signal and safe for residential areas.

Residents can access this data at any time through the Hinchinbrook H2O portal, giving them the power to monitor their water use, detect leaks early, and make informed decisions about their consumption.

Why Sign Up?

• Track your water usage hourly
• Identify leaks and unusual patterns quickly
• Manage your water bills more effectively
• Support Council in maintaining reliable infrastructure

Depending on your property’s existing setup, you’ll receive either a full meter replacement or a retrofitted device — ensuring compatibility and seamless integration.

The system also monitors operational performance, including battery life, helping reduce long-term maintenance costs.

As the project continues, residents will receive updates on how to access and use their water data.

Contact Council via email at council@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au, sign up at https://h2o.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au or call 4776 4600 if you require sign-up assistance or for more information.

Water is central to life in the Hinchinbrook region. It keeps us healthy, supports our agriculture, sustains local businesses, and helps our communities thrive.

The Queensland Government has announced a review of the Wet Tropics Water Plan, which could lead to the release of unallocated water to support future growth.

This is a significant opportunity for our region, and Council encourages interested parties to get involved by lodging an Expression of Interest (EOI) before 31 August 2025.

Water plans are important tools that determine how much water is available and how it’s managed across different sectors.

They aim to balance the needs of urban, industrial, agricultural, environmental, and cultural users, while ensuring long-term sustainability.

These plans may include reserves of unallocated water, which can be released for future use without affecting current water users or the environment.

In the Wet Tropics area, unallocated water is available from two sources:
The general reserve, which includes watercourse water and groundwater depending on location, and;
The high-flow reserve, which includes watercourse water.

This means there are real opportunities for local landholders, businesses, and developers to secure water access that could support agricultural expansion, diversification into higher-value crops, or new business ventures.

By submitting an EOI, you’re helping demonstrate genuine demand for the Hinchinbrook region, which can influence future decisions and ensure we are considered in the planning process.

Lodge an EOI here at this link https://www.business.qld.gov.au/industries/mining-energy-water/water/catchments-planning/unallocated-water/eoi/wet-tropics by Sunday, 31st of August 2025.

Missing it could mean waiting years for another chance to access new water allocations.

Opinion Piece

On the 1st of September, the Northern Territory Government will commence a twelve-month trial allowing everyday residents to legally purchase and carry oleoresin capsicum spray (commonly known as pepper spray) for self-defence. Western Australia (WA) has already permitted pepper spray for many years, with limited reports of misuse.

I strongly believe Queensland should follow in the NT’s footsteps and trial the legal carriage of pepper spray. Back in June, I asked the Police Minister in a Question on Notice whether the government would consider this. The response was a lacklustre “no” due to what he described as “significant risks, including potential misuse and unintended harm.” I find his answer intriguing, especially knowing that West Australians have been allowed to obtain and carry pepper spray for self-defence for twenty-five years without the sky falling in.

The reality is that making pepper spray legal in Queensland could be done quickly and easily because it doesn’t even require a legislative change. A simple amendment to the Weapons Categories Regulation 1997 signed off by the Minister is all that’s required. With the stroke of a pen, this government could empower Queensland’s most vulnerable to better protect themselves.

Criminals are already arming themselves with knives and other weapons. Experts in self-defence believe that allowing law-abiding Queenslanders to carry pepper spray would give prospective victims a fighting chance. If criminals wanted to acquire pepper spray to use as a weapon, then they already would. Sensible safeguards could be put in place, such as limiting sales to persons over the age of eighteen with no criminal history and using licensed firearm dealers to manage distribution. We already have the networks in place to sell and regulate restricted items, and pepper spray could be easily added to that list with very little disruption.

With sustained levels of property crime, violent offences, carjackings and rapes, Queenslanders are currently left vulnerable and exposed. The NT Government has shown leadership on this issue and has taken steps to empower its residents. With very little effort, our state government could do the same.

Contributed with thanks by Nick Dametto MP, Member for Hinchinbrook.

The Cardwell RSL Sub Branch has ensured an important piece of wartime history will never be forgotten with the unveiling of a bronze plaque dedicated to the Hudson Bomber crew who crashed in the Hinchinbrook Channel on May 4, 1942, during the Battle of the Coral Sea.

The project, a year in the making, received strong community backing with thanks extended to the Fletcher family, the Far Northern District RSL, Cassowary Coast Mayor Teresa Millwood and Councillor Chris Littlemore, who officially attended the ceremony in support. Along with Far Northern District RSL Secretary, Julie Tepaz, travelled from Cairns to attend the commemoration, and unveiled the plaque with Cr Littlemore.

The plaque serves as a reminder of how close the war came to Australia’s shores and of the sacrifices made by four young RAAF servicemen. The Hudson Bomber A16-162, caught in a tropical storm while searching for Japanese ships, crash-landed in the channel before being towed ashore at Cardwell’s main beach. Co-pilot Sgt James East tragically lost his life and was later laid to rest in Tully. Sgt Geoff Fletcher displayed remarkable bravery, rescuing his surviving crewmates from the wreckage in waters teeming with sharks and crocodiles. His legacy extends beyond the war, with his son Ken and grandson Dustin together playing a total of 664 VFL/AFL games for the Essendon Football Club (the Bombers).

The Hudson Bomber plaque now stands as a lasting tribute to courage, sacrifice and service. For more information, visit the Battle of the Coral Sea Memorial Park at 4 Coral Sea Drive, Cardwell.

Lest we forget.

Contributed with thanks by Robert Lang, President of the Cardwell RSL Sub-Branch.

The Herbert River RSL is turning blue this August in support of men’s health, launching a fundraising campaign to back the It’s a Bloke’s Thing Foundation. The initiative runs through to Father’s Day on Sunday, 7 September, with funds raised helping to increase awareness and provide vital support for those affected by prostate cancer.

All proceeds from the RSL’s popular Friday night raffles, as well as special Father’s Day raffles, will be donated directly to the cause. Patrons are also being encouraged to wear blue when visiting the club throughout August as a visible show of support for the campaign.

Committee members say the event is about more than just raising funds. It is about bringing the community together, honouring fathers and families, and sparking conversations about an issue that affects so many Australian men. Prostate cancer remains one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in the country, and community-driven efforts such as this play a critical role in funding research and support services.

Locals can get involved by attending the raffles, donating online, or simply spreading the word. With the added spirit of Father’s Day celebrations at the RSL, the initiative offers both a chance to come together and an opportunity to make a real difference.

Make a real difference by donating: www.bbqwithdad.com.au/donate

The countdown is on for one of North Queensland’s biggest annual events, with the 2025 Long Pocket Earthmoving Ingham Sugar City Rodeo set to take over the Ingham Showgrounds on Saturday, 6 September.

This year’s rodeo promises all the thrills, spills, and family fun the event is known for – with an extra special highlight. In a true show of community spirit, Nick Dametto, State Member for Hinchinbrook, and Glenn Hall, former North Queensland Toyota Cowboys forward and current Team Manager, will climb onto the back of a bull to raise funds for the Ingham Palliative Care Unit.

Both men have set an ambitious goal of $10,000, determined to support the unit’s vital work in providing care and comfort to locals and their families. Rodeo organisers are encouraging the community to get behind the cause. Donations can be made online at gofund.me/6dcfe141.

Gates open at 8am, with a full day of rodeo action including bull riding, barrel racing, junior events, live music, food stalls, and local market vendors.

Tickets are on sale now via trybooking.com/DBCUT
. Don’t miss this year’s rodeo — and the chance to see two local legends #RideForACause!

The renowned Thorsborne Trail on Hinchinbrook Island (Munamudanamy) is receiving a significant upgrade, with works currently underway to enhance visitor experience while preserving the island’s unique natural and cultural values.

Led by the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, the project is being delivered in close collaboration with Bandjin and Girramay Traditional Owners. The aim is to improve infrastructure along the 32-kilometre trail without compromising the remote and pristine character that has made it one of Queensland’s most celebrated multi-day hikes.

As part of the upgrade, key camping areas along the trail are being refreshed, with improvements designed to ensure walkers remain immersed in nature. Other enhancements include better trail infrastructure, signage, and environmental protection measures, supporting sustainable tourism and maintaining visitor safety.

Hinchinbrook Island is part of the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area and is recognised for its rugged landscapes, rich biodiversity and cultural significance. Access to the trail remains limited, with bookings capped to protect the environment and maintain the low-impact nature of the experience.

The Thorsborne Trail enhancement project reflects the Queensland Government’s broader commitment to strengthening partnerships with Traditional Owners and delivering ecotourism experiences that celebrate both nature and culture.

For more details, visit the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service website.

Rural Aid has launched a powerful new fundraising campaign to secure the future of rural Australia by supporting the next generation of farmers — the children growing up on the land today.

These children are not only the future of their family farms, but also the future custodians of Australia’s food supply. Right now, many are facing significant challenges. From natural disasters to financial stress, country kids often grow up surrounded by uncertainty, with the weight of the farm’s future on their young shoulders.

Rural Aid is raising funds to provide both immediate and long-term support for country kids and their families. Donations will help deliver practical support including hay, domestic water, financial assistance, specialist counselling services, and continued delivery of Rural Aid’s Mustering Growth program — a school-based mental health and wellbeing initiative designed to build resilience and emotional strength in rural students.

Rural Aid CEO John Warlters said the campaign is about much more than providing short-term support.

“If we want to keep young people on the land, we must support them now and from an early age. These kids are growing up in incredibly trying circumstances, but they are also the future of farming in this country,” Mr Warlters said.

“Many of our farms are passed down through generations. When we nurture country kids, when we support their wellbeing, confidence and connection to community, we’re not just helping them today. We’re safeguarding rural Australia’s future.”

For families like Danny and Erin Hutchinson, cattle and cropping farmers from Biddon, NSW, the value of support is deeply felt. Their children — Amelia (8), Ali (6) and Lockie (3) — are growing up with plenty of space to explore, but also with the stress of drought and financial strain close to home.

“We’re just so grateful for the support we received from Rural Aid,” said Ms Hutchinson. “It made a real difference, not just to the farm, but to our whole family’s wellbeing.”

Recent Rural Aid research highlights the scale of the challenge:
41% of farming parents are most concerned about financial stability and meeting their child’s basic needs
57% believe rural children need access to tailored mental health support
83% of farming families have used or would use Rural Aid’s counselling services

The campaign aims to ensure country kids have the support, skills and confidence they need to grow into strong, capable adults who can carry their communities, and the farming sector, into the future.

To help secure the future of our country kids and Australian farming, donate today at www.countrykids.ruralaid.org.au.

As rural Australia’s most trusted agribusiness, Elders has played an important role in the agricultural sector for more than 185 years. Our expansive network across Australia offers links to markets, tailored advice and specialist knowledge across a range of products and services, including farm supplies, agronomy, livestock, wool, grain, finance, insurance, and real estate.

Elders is committed to a sustainable and prosperous future for rural and regional communities, and creating value for all stakeholders in the agricultural supply chain, across both Australian and international markets.

That same dedication can be found locally, through the branch in Ingham. Over the past five years, Elders Ingham has been servicing agricultural clients in the region and giving back to the local community.

Today, the team continues that commitment from its new premises at 23 Barnes Street, Ingham. Clients can expect the same friendly team and specialist advice, all backed by the strength of Elders’ national network.

Elders is for Australian agriculture.

Hinchinbrook Shire Council reminds landholders that, under current arrangements, flood debris removal from cane paddocks is only available until Tuesday, 30th of September 2025.

Council acknowledges that this timeframe is not ideal, particularly as the harvesting season is expected to continue through to November. As such, Council has been advocating for an extension of the program to align with the end of harvest, ensuring clean-up services remain available as needed.

However, government agencies have advised that an extension will only be considered if there is clear and demonstrated demand for continued debris removal. To date, only eight requests have been received, which is not sufficient to justify an extension.

This low response suggests there is limited need for the program to continue, making it unlikely that further funding or support will be approved. If no additional registrations are received, the program will conclude as scheduled on 30 September. Council strongly encourages any landholders requiring assistance to register as soon as possible to ensure their property can be assessed and scheduled for clean-up, and to help demonstrate the need for the program to continue.

Eligibility and how to apply

Landholders with flood-related debris in cane paddocks may qualify for clean-up assistance. To apply:
• Call Council on 4776 4600 to lodge a customer request;
• Provide your name, contact details, property information, and a photo of the flood debris located in the paddock; and
• Debris may be moved aside and out of the paddock to allow harvesting and other husbandry practices to continue once the photo has been taken.

This service is jointly funded by Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) to support Queensland communities in their recovery from the North and Far North Tropical Low Commencing 29 January 2025 event.

When it comes to fencing, durability and style should go hand in hand. LYSAGHT has built its reputation on delivering premium fencing solutions that withstand Australia’s toughest conditions, while still offering easy installation and a sleek design. Made from genuine COLORBOND steel and backed by BlueScope warranties, LYSAGHT fencing provides security, privacy, and aesthetic appeal that lasts.

What truly sets LYSAGHT apart is its wide range of fencing profiles, designed to complement both modern and traditional landscapes. Four standout options demonstrate the brand’s versatility.

NEETASCREEN is a long-standing favourite, delivering strength, privacy, and a refined appearance. Crafted from COLORBOND steel, it blends seamlessly into residential or commercial properties, providing reliable security without compromising style.

SMARTASCREEN is fantastic for boundary fences that look just as good on both sides. SMARTASCREEN is the perfect neighbour-friendly choice. Its textured finish and crisp lines complement contemporary homes, while the durable steel construction ensures long-lasting performance.

MINISCREEN is great for those wanting a distinctive look. MINISCREEN combines the classic MINI ORB profile with COLORBOND steel. It creates a striking visual effect that adds character while still offering exceptional durability and minimal maintenance.

SLATSCREEN is the modern answer to stylish outdoor design. SLATSCREEN brings clean, horizontal lines that double as both fencing and screening. Perfect for those wanting a contemporary edge, it enhances privacy while making a bold architectural statement.

Whether the priority is security, aesthetics, or low-maintenance performance, LYSAGHT provides a fencing solution to suit every project. With proven quality, it’s easier than ever to get fencing done right. Order yours today from Mitre10 on 100 Herbert St, Ingham or one of our preferred installers, Bartolini Fencing 0400119947, Still More Fencing 0400214709, or KDM All sorts 0439371774.

In commemoration of Homelessness Week this August, the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre (HCSC) hosted several information sessions to provide community members with the opportunity to meet with housing support workers, seek information, and receive assistance with housing applications.

One of these sessions took place on Monday, 4 August, when HCSC Homelessness Support Workers hosted an information hub outside Woolworths Ingham. The pop-up allowed locals to ask questions, connect with staff, and receive help completing Department of Housing application forms. HCSC extends its thanks to Hinchinbrook Central for supporting this initiative and providing the space to host the event.

Homelessness continues to be a pressing issue across Australia. On census night in 2021, more than 122,000 Australians were recorded as experiencing homelessness. Recent reports indicate that an additional 10,000 people are becoming homeless each month, largely due to rising rental costs and housing shortages. Alarmingly, an increasing number of employed Australians are also turning to homelessness services for support.

HCSC Homelessness Support Workers are committed to ensuring that all community members experiencing, or at risk of, homelessness are assisted in applying for public housing, despite the long waiting times. These applications not only provide individuals with access to essential housing pathways but also help demonstrate to the government the urgent need for more social housing.

Initiatives such as the HUB’s pop-up are vital in raising awareness, delivering practical support, and offering hope to those doing it tough in our community.

If you need assistance with a Department of Housing Application or if you or someone you know is experiencing homelessness, please contact our homelessness workers at the HCSC HUB on 4776 1822.

Local Students Compete In Hydrogen Grand Prix World Final In Germany

Five talented students from Gilroy Santa Maria College in Ingham are trading the tropics for Germany as they compete in the Hydrogen Grand Prix (H2GP) World Final in Chemnitz. Known as the Gilroy Velocity Raptors, this Year 7–9 team earned global recognition after dominating the North Queensland Finals with a record-breaking 387 laps.

In their first year—and as the youngest team competing—they’ve turned a lunchtime STEM club into a world-class contender. Backed by strategy, resilience, and community pride, the Raptors are ready to showcase their hydrogen-powered innovation and prove that regional students can lead the charge in sustainable technology.

Gilroy Velocity Raptors Set For Global Stage In Germany

Five bright young minds from Gilroy Santa Maria College in Ingham are preparing to swap the tropics for the autobahn as they gear up for the Hydrogen Grand Prix (H2GP) World Final in Chemnitz, Germany this week.

The Gilroy Velocity Raptors, a team of Year 7 to 9 students, secured their place on the world stage after a commanding win at the H2GP North Queensland Finals. Their hydrogen-powered remote-controlled vehicle completed 387 laps in four hours, claiming the top award for endurance, energy efficiency, and design.

Remarkably, this is the Raptors’ first year in the competition, and they are the youngest team to qualify for the World Final. While many schools integrate H2GP into their science curriculum and compete annually, the Raptors began as a lunchtime STEM club—transforming a passion project into a world championship bid. Their success is even more impressive given the resources and experience of many rival teams.

To celebrate, the College brought the school community together for a special send-off event. The occasion showcased the winning vehicle, speeches from the team and teachers, and a tribute to the innovation and resilience that has driven the students’ success.

Team manager Owen, 14, said the team’s success was built on strategy and teamwork.

“We’ve spent months refining our strategy and testing every detail of the car. To now take that work to an international stage is incredible, we’re ready to show what regional students can do.”

Nate, 13, added, “We’ve faced breakdowns, battery issues, and hours of preparation during lunch breaks and before and after school, but every challenge has made us stronger. Competing in Germany is a dream come true.”

Principal Melissa Carr said, “This send-off is a celebration of grit, intelligence, and community spirit. These students are not just representing Gilroy, they’re representing the future of sustainable innovation.”

The H2GP World Final will bring together teams from across the globe, for the Gilroy Velocity Raptors, it’s not only a chance to compete at the highest level but also to inspire other regional students to dream big and embrace innovation.

Find the social pics here: https://tinyurl.com/24thas5a