Hinchinbrook farmers were significantly impacted by Cyclone Jasper, with torrential rain and flooding leaving deep craters in cane fields, carving through paddocks, and washing hillsides into creeks. The widespread damage affected crops, infrastructure and access routes, while many farming families were isolated or personally affected by the disaster. The latest changes to disaster funding eligibility may provide crucial support as the region continues its long recovery.

More Queensland primary producers will now be eligible for vital support under the joint Commonwealth–State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), following a significant change to how farming income is defined.

Under the amended guidelines, income from agricultural support services such as cane harvesting, contract mustering, artificial insemination, cattle droving and other similar services will now be considered part of a farming operation. This means many producers previously excluded from assistance—because they relied on a mix of on-farm and off-farm ag-related work—can now access grants, concessional loans, and freight subsidies after natural disasters.

Queensland Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett said the changes would benefit local producers across the state every year, especially following a devastating 2024–25 disaster season.

“Agriculture is vital to every Australian, and when our producers suffer, we all do,” Minister Perrett said.

“These are men and women putting food on our tables, and in times of disaster, it’s vital all support avenues are available to them.”

Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain said the Australian Government had worked closely with Queensland to ensure the DRFA reflects how modern farming operates.

“These agricultural support services are essential for sustaining small-scale operations. This change will give more farmers confidence that help will be there when they need it most,” Minister McBain said.

Federal Assistant Minister for Agriculture, Anthony Chisholm, said the reforms would make a real difference in remote regions hit hard by summer storms and flooding.

“Queensland farmers are resilient, but they deserve meaningful support when disaster strikes. This is a commonsense reform to ensure no producer is left behind,” he said.

Importantly, the new eligibility rules apply retrospectively to disasters in early 2025. Any primary producer who was previously deemed ineligible is encouraged to contact QRIDA on 1800 623 946 to find out what the changes mean for them.

The move follows strong advocacy from industry bodies including CANEGROWERS and the Queensland Farmers’ Federation, who had been calling for a more inclusive approach to disaster support.

CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan welcomed the announcement at the 2025 FNQ Field Days in Mareeba, describing it as “a smart, sensible fix that brings disaster recovery support into line with how modern farms actually operate.”

“This is about making sure no grower falls through the cracks,” Mr Galligan said.

“Many farming families rely on both growing and contracting income to stay viable—it’s never made sense to exclude them.”

The reform builds on several recent wins for the sugarcane industry. Earlier this year, CANEGROWERS secured the inclusion of replanting costs in disaster grants, helped deliver extended application deadlines following Cyclone Jasper, and successfully advocated for increased funding caps of up to $75,000 for growers worst affected by summer floods.

“These are tangible outcomes that make a real difference on the ground,” Mr Galligan said.

“We’ll keep working to ensure disaster support keeps pace with the realities of farming in Queensland.”

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people should be aware that this article contains mentions of, and names of deceased persons.

The history of Cardwell, as written records know it, and its surrounding areas unfolds as a remarkable saga of exploration, conflict, settlement, and development that spans over two centuries. It began on 8th June 1770 when Captain Cook named Hillock Point, Cape Sandwich and Rockingham Bay. Cape Sandwich honoured the Earl of Sandwich, who had served as First Lord of the Admiralty in 1763, and Rockingham Bay was named after Charles Wentworth, the Marquis of Rockingham and Prime Minister in 1765–66.

In 1815, it is believed that Lieutenant Charles Jeffreys, commanding the armed transport brig Kangaroo on a mission to deliver a detachment of troops to Ceylon, gave the name to the Brook Islands. Four years later, in 1819, Captain Phillip Parker King, commanding HMS Cutter Mermaid, first explored the region during a four-year survey of the coast. While undertaking his survey, Captain King described the land between Point Hillock and Cape Sandwich on Hinchinbrook Island as having a singularly grand and imposing appearance, visible from the deck for eighteen leagues, and he named this striking feature Mount Hinchinbrook – a name derived from the Earl of Sandwich’s estate. Captain King further reported steering towards a peaked hill, which was soon found on the island recorded by Captain Cook in Rockingham Bay, and it subsequently received the name Goold Island. During this period, he also commented favourably on the friendliness and ingenuity of the Aboriginal people who approached in small bark canoes.

The mid-19th century brought further exploration and naming. In 1843, the survey vessel HMS Fly, under the command of Captain Francis Price Blackwood, sailed into Rockingham Bay and established that a channel separated the island from the mainland. Around the same period, Bramble and Britomart Reefs, situated east of Hinchinbrook Island, were named after ships of the region during the late 1830s. Edmund Kennedy and his expedition passed through the area in 1848; Kennedy fought to find a route northwards, crossing near the mouths of the rivers now known as Hull, Tully, Murray, Dallachy and Wreck Creeks, and eventually discovered an Aboriginal track opposite Hinchinbrook Island that led inland and permitted northward travel. Almost at their designated rendezvous with a supply ship at Cape York, Kennedy was killed by fierce Aboriginals; his resolute Aboriginal guide, Jackey Jackey, was the only one to reach the supply ship, and Kennedy’s name has since lived on in the region.

For years, landowners along the Herbert River have battled against riverbank erosion. Gradually, this issue has chipped away at agricultural land, threatened infrastructure, and made properties unsafe. Despite the strong and committed efforts by the Herbert River Improvement Trust (the Trust), the problem continues to worsen due to sheer scale of the damage and a lack of government support.

Sadly, the severe flooding in February made this serious problem significantly worse. Powerful floodwaters tore away at riverbanks, caused major collapses and stripped away even more land. The Trust estimated more than $7.5 million is needed to rectify the most immediate damage along the Herbert River.

It’s frustrating to hear green groups constantly voicing concerns about sediment runoff from farmland, yet none of them seem concerned about the football fields worth of sediment washed out to sea from collapsing, unmanaged riverbanks. This is a serious environmental concern that needs to be addressed. Unfortunately, these calls were ignored by the previous government for many years and that’s why I’m calling on the Crisafulli Government to provide immediate funding to assist landowners and the Trust to urgently repair key sections of the Herbert River.

But we also need to think long-term. In addition to the immediate needs, I’ve proposed the idea of a Herbert River Master Plan. Led by the Trust, this plan would guide river management over the next 10–15 years and help future-proof the Herbert River. It could map out current erosion zones, pinch points, sediment build-up areas, long-term infrastructure risks, and opportunities for better water flow and flood mitigation. This will require support and dedicated funding from the government, but in return, it will deliver a clear, strategic blueprint for tackling river erosion in the years to come.

I have written to the Minister for Local Government and Water and Minister for Fire, Disaster Recovery and Volunteers, the Hon. Ann Leahy, requesting funding for both the urgent repair works and the strategic planning and development of a Herbert River Master Plan. I look forward to the Minister’s response and will keep the community informed as things progress.

Contributed with thanks by Nick Dametto MP

Queensland’s next generation of sporting champions may soon be discovered in regional communities, as the Queensland Academy of Sport (QAS) takes its cutting-edge athlete identification app, YouFor2032, on the road.

Developed as part of the government’s push to elevate the state’s sporting future, the YouFor2032 app—powered by artificial intelligence and computer vision—is being used to assess aspiring athletes and uncover potential Olympic and Paralympic talent across Queensland.

Driven by RACQ, the app allows young athletes to test their skills either in person or from the comfort of home. QAS talent scouts will travel from Wide Bay to Far North Queensland over the coming weeks, helping aspiring athletes access the technology and assess their athletic potential.

So far, more than 2000 athletes have progressed through the initial testing phase, with 422 invited into a 12-month targeted development program and 40 selected for high-performance state or national training opportunities. The initiative has already seen app-based testing take place across 40 locations, including 26 regional centres from Warwick to Emerald and the Gold Coast to Yarrabah.

The YouFor2032 Talent Search has partnered with 17 sports to help identify and nurture future elite and para-sport athletes in the lead-up to Brisbane’s 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Minister for Sport and Racing and Minister for the Olympic and Paralympic Games Tim Mander encouraged families and young people across the state to get involved before testing closes.

“We’ve extended the deadline for YouFor2032 app testing to make sure our QAS talent scouts can see as many athletes across Queensland as possible,” Minister Mander said.

“This is world-leading technology and the first of its kind known to include Para sports, ensuring athletes of all abilities have the chance to be discovered."

Face-to-face assessment sessions will run from the 13th of June and to learn more or register for a session, visit: qasport.qld.gov.au/youfor2032.

For Lifesaving Blood Drive

The annual Australian Red Cross Lifeblood Emergency Services Blood Drive is now underway, with Queenslanders urged to donate blood or plasma between 1 June and 31 August.

Fire, Ambulance, Police, and SES workers from across the state are leading the charge in this vital campaign, which provides a crucial boost to blood and plasma stocks over the winter months when many regular donors are sidelined by illness.

The Crisafulli Government is encouraging as many people as possible to get involved.

Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Tim Nicholls and Member for Rockhampton Donna Kirkland launched the challenge by donating alongside paramedics.

“From patients facing cancer, to those undergoing heart surgery and those who have suffered severe burns – there are many situations and conditions that require blood and plasma donations,” Minister Nicholls said.

“I encourage as many Queenslanders as possible to roll up their sleeves and donate to the lifesaving Australian Red Cross Lifeblood Emergency Services Blood Drive.”

Ms Kirkland said the campaign hits close to home for many frontline workers.

“Our emergency services workers, who often face traumatic incidents that involve patients who will need a blood or plasma transfusion, are doing their bit and are donating as part of the drive,” she said.

“But you don’t have to wear a uniform to save lives. People like you and me can also roll up their sleeves and donate lifesaving blood or plasma.”

To book an appointment, visit lifeblood.com.au, call 13 14 95, or download the DonateBlood app.

State Emergency Services (SES) groups across Queensland are set to benefit from nearly $2 million in funding as part of a major investment in local disaster response capability.

The government has announced $1.97 million in SES Support Grants to support 32 SES groups across the state — from remote Doomadgee to the Gold Coast — with upgrades to vehicles, facilities, equipment, and training sites.

Successful projects include a new SES facility in Doomadgee Aboriginal Shire Council ($150,000), vehicle replacements for SES depots in Atherton ($225,000) and Yeppoon (over $95,000), sand pit structures in Babinda, Edmonton and surrounding areas (over $123,000), and more than $86,000 to upgrade security at Goodna’s SES depot. Ingham will also benefit from funding to revitalise its SES building.

Minister for Police and Emergency Services Dan Purdie said the funding is a strategic investment in Queensland’s emergency preparedness.

“Our SES groups play a critical role in natural disasters and our Government is pleased to be able to boost capability ahead of the next major weather event,” Minister Purdie said.

“These grants will help ensure SES groups are armed with the essentials to help them continue to perform their great work to keep communities safe, right across Queensland.”

Other upgrades include nearly $40,000 for an ATV and trailer at Quilpie/Eromanga, helping SES crews access difficult terrain during flood and fire events.

With the next storm season approaching, the investment ensures Queensland’s frontline responders are better equipped to serve their communities.

Centacare FNQ’s Disaster Recovery team has been supporting communities across the Cassowary Coast in the wake of this year’s floods. Working in close partnership with local organisations, the team is leading coordinated recovery efforts. With an experienced local team of case managers and mental health professionals, Centacare is providing immediate relief and support to help residents recover, rebuild and strengthen community resilience for the long term.

Centacare FNQ’s Disaster Recovery Team Leader Patrick Sim said his team remains committed to actively supporting the Cardwell Community and the surrounding areas.

“As part of our ongoing efforts, our team will be conducting door-to-door visits in the coming weeks to check in with residents, offer assistance, and provide updated information on available recovery services.

"We understand that recovery is a long journey, and we are here to ensure no one is left behind. If you see our team in your area, please don’t hesitate to reach out - we’re here to help.”

Centacare FNQ will maintain an active presence in Cardwell and throughout the Cassowary Coast, ensuring that help is readily available for everyone affected and in need of support.

Their suite of disaster support services includes case management, system navigation, mental health assistance, and community outreach.

Centacare FNQ’s local recovery team is available Monday to Friday from 9 am to 4 pm, at 33c Butler Street, Tully (former Work Ways building) and every Tuesday and Thursday from 9.30am – 12.30pm at 79 Victoria Street, Cardwell (behind Bendigo Bank.) To learn more, phone 0418 537 310 or email ccr@centacarefnq.org

Appointments are not required, but can be scheduled via the contact details above.

One of Hinchinbrook’s most beloved family fun days is making its much-anticipated return this Saturday, 14 June, as Tasman Turtle’s Picnic Day takes over TYTO Parklands in Ingham for another action-packed celebration.

From 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., families can enjoy a day of entertainment, creativity, and connection—all completely free. Proudly hosted by Hinchinbrook Shire Council, the event offers the perfect chance for locals and visitors alike to come together in one of the region’s most scenic natural settings.

New for 2025 is a rock-climbing wall and fun-filled circus workshops by CircUp, offering everything from juggling and tumbling to acro balance and plate spinning. Crowd favourites are also set to return, including Adrenaline Games Laser Tag, a petting zoo from Carter’s Farm, and colourful face painting.

The event places a strong focus on environmental awareness, with interactive eco-friendly activities designed to inspire sustainable habits in fun and engaging ways.

Food, drinks, and sweet treats will be available for purchase throughout the day, with local vendors offering something for every taste.

Whether exploring creative workshops, playing adrenaline-pumping games, or simply soaking up the sunshine with family and friends, Tasman Turtle’s Picnic Day is set to be a vibrant community celebration.

For more information, contact Hinchinbrook Shire Council’s Events Team on 4776 4600 or email events@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au.

WHAT: Tasman Turtle's Picnic Day
WHEN: Saturday 14th June
WHERE: TYTO Parklands, 73–75 McIlwraith Street, Ingham

In regional and rural North Queensland, accessing timely, quality mental health care can still be a real challenge, especially for families, young people, and those living in smaller communities.

That’s where Tumbleweed Therapies comes in.

Based in Townsville, Tumbleweed Therapies operates on a hub-and-spoke model, providing fortnightly outreach clinics in Ingham, with new locations opening soon in Ayr and Charters Towers. The aim is simple: making practical, down-to-earth psychological support more accessible to people who might often miss out.

Led by psychologist Toby Bartle, Tumbleweed Therapies offers assessment and therapy for adolescents, young adults, and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, addiction, stress, or navigating disabilities like autism, intellectual disabilities, ADHD, executive functioning challenges, and more. Services are neuro-affirming, research-informed, and shaped by ongoing training in neuroscience and behaviour change.

After moving from metropolitan Perth to regional Queensland in 2017, Toby saw just how tough it can be to access the kind of support many city dwellers take for granted. That’s why Tumbleweed is focused on offering support that is not only evidence-based but also relatable, flexible, and tailored to life in the regions.

The practice works closely with GPs, paediatricians, psychiatrists, schools, parents, support coordinators and the wider community. Helping people make meaningful progress, whether they’re managing daily stress, navigating a diagnosis, or building new skills.

Mental health care doesn’t need to be intimidating. Sometimes it’s just about having someone who gets it, and someone to help you make sense of things and take that next step, whatever that may be.

If you or someone you support could benefit from a fresh perspective and friendly guidance, we’d love to hear from you. Get in touch and let’s have a chat, phone 07 4463 8679, email admin@tumbleweedtherapies.com or check us out online www.tumbleweedtherapies.com.au

Women interested in connecting more with their local community are warmly invited to join the QCWA Forrest Beach Branch.

“We are a warm, friendly group of ladies who are passionate about making a difference, learning together and sharing good company. New members are always welcome, and now is the perfect time to get involved,” said a local member.

The next branch meeting is scheduled for Thursday, 12 June at 9:00am at the QCWA Hall on Palm Street, Forrest Beach. Meetings are held on the second Thursday of every month, beginning at 9:30am following a morning tea catch-up.

“Whether your interest lies in lending a hand to local causes, enjoying social time with others, or learning something new, there is something here for you.”

Throughout the week, the branch hosts a variety of regular activities.

On Monday mornings at 9:00am, Healthy Living sessions offer gentle exercise followed by morning tea and a relaxed opportunity for conversation and connection.

The library, stocked with donated books, is open on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday mornings from 9:00am, where visitors can browse, borrow, or purchase books for a gold coin donation.
While clean, good-condition book donations are welcome, magazines are not accepted at this time.

Each Thursday morning, except on meeting days, Craft Mornings begin at 9:00am. This is a welcoming space to work on creative projects, share ideas, and develop skills, whether participants are experienced crafters or simply curious to learn.

The branch expresses gratitude to the community for supporting recent markets, including purchasing cakes, visiting the library, exploring craft stalls, and browsing pre-loved treasures.

The Annual General Meeting will be held on 20 July 2025. Anyone interested in joining the executive team is encouraged to attend and get involved.

For more information, contact President Margaret Hill on 04 2785 6725.

Hinchinbrook’s most eligible outback bachelors are being called upon to star in the next season of Farmer Wants a Wife, the world’s most successful dating show!

Adapted from the hit British reality TV show, Australia’s Farmer Wants a Wife follows a number of farmers as they go out on a series of romantic dates with women in pursuit of true love. Broadcast across the nation, the series has led to over a hundred marriages, long-term relationships, and happy families worldwide, and casting has well and truly begun ahead of its 16th season.

A casting call has been sounded across the shire, leaving local farmers in the spotlight after producers identified Hinchinbrook as a promising region for potential bachelors. With feelings of excitement and “showbiz buzz” spreading across the cane fields and throughout the paddocks, eligible farmers are being nominated for the series left, right, and centre, and casting directors say the show’s success speaks for itself.

“The stats don’t lie, this show works,” shared directors online.

“Your chances of finding love are high, and this could really change your life!”

In seasons past, 11 Australian farmers have found a wife, nine more have found long-term love, and 27 babies have been born.

“We’re searching for our next crop of farmers, and if you’re a single farmer who’d like to find love – apply now – it’s your turn!”

To date, the show has cast farmers from across the country, hailing from farmlands in New South Wales, Tasmania, South Australia, Western Australia, Victoria, and Queensland, from regions including Cunnamulla, Richmond, Mareeba, Rockhampton, Hughenden, Innisfail, Biloela, and Stanthorpe, to name a few. However, in the past 18 years, the show is yet to cast a farmer hailing from the Hinchinbrook Shire…

The application process asks farmers to simply fill in all contact details, answer a couple of questions, upload a recent photo, and let the producers work their magic! Whether you’re a single farmer yourself or know one who deserves a shot at romance, applications can be made online at www.farmerwantsawife.com.au or nominations can be emailed to farmerwantsawife@eurekaproductions.au.

You Matter!

If you’re a mother feeling isolated, overwhelmed, or just in need of a safe space to connect, then Mummy’s Matter might be exactly what you’ve been looking for. Based at the local community support centre in Ingham, and run in a warm, welcoming environment, Mummy’s Matter is a judgement-free group designed specifically for mums who may be feeling vulnerable, socially isolated, or who are experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, postnatal depression. It also welcomes expectant mothers who feel they may be at risk of these challenges.

This group is not only about support, though that’s at its heart, it’s really all about connection, understanding, and creating a sense of belonging. Mummy’s Matter provides a friendly and positive space where you’ll be met with empathy, not judgement. Whether you're navigating the ups and downs of new motherhood or just need a listening ear, this is a safe space where you're never alone.

Led by a community support worker from the lovely HCSC team, the sessions take a community-based approach, meaning you’ll be surrounded by others who understand, in a space that encourages openness, trust, and healing. Best of all, under school-aged children are welcome to attend with their mums, so there’s no need to find a carer in order to take part.

If you, or someone you know, could benefit from this supportive space, don’t hesitate to reach out. Call Shannen on 4776 1822 for more information, as motherhood doesn’t have to be a lonely journey. Mummy’s Matter is here to walk alongside you.

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The Canegrower's Link2Country Expo could not have been better! An attendance of 1,533 people was recorded over the course of the action-packed weekend, with event organisers praising the community, it’s amazing team, volunteers and generous sponsors for making the incredible extravaganza possible.

Held on the 23rd and 24th of May at the Ingham Showgrounds, the event was created to connect students, jobseekers, farmers, travellers and businesses together in celebration of the agricultural industry’s enduring strength within the Hinchinbrook Shire.

Created on the pillars of education, entertainment and encouragement, the expo hosted a dynamic Agri Life Skills Program to provide students with a genuine, hands-on experience of what its like to work within the agricultural industry through establishing connections with local businesses and opening doors to future career opportunities. In anticipation of what the weekend would entail, organisers hoped to reach 500 students, however officials have excitingly confirmed an incredible 872 students participated in the program!

“That’s 872 opportunities to kick start a career in ag, which is amazing,” shared Link2Country online.

“A heartfelt thank you to everyone who made it possible – from the schools and supervisors to our amazing volunteers and industry experts – your support helped bring our vision to life.”

119 businesses were also involved in the two-day long event, hosting excellent displays, and interactive activities to provide attendees with a true taste of agriculture.

“To all the businesses who took the time and effort to attend our first-ever event, thank you as your belief in our vision made it possible, and we’re so grateful we got to share this experience with you - whether it was via sponsorship, having a stall or in-kind support, thank you.”

With the festivities wrapped up, event organisers have begun looking towards the future, and have kindly asked attendees to share their thoughts, feelings and opinions on 2025’s event via an online feedback form available at www.link2country.com.au.

“New events are always a challenge, and we know we’re not perfect – your feedback is so important to help us learn, grow and make future events event better.”

Lane Pizzi might be a first-time reader of the Hinchinbrook newspaper, but he’s already proven he’s got what it takes to Catch Colin! At just 8 years old, Lane gave our sneaky croc a real run for his money, spotting him in 20 minutes flat.

With a keen eye sharpened by a love of fishing and the great outdoors, Lane is no stranger to tracking things down. Whether he's reeling in fish, exploring outside or racing to victory (like he did in both of his recent cross-country wins), Lane is clearly someone who doesn’t give up easily.

Although this was Lane’s first time flipping through the paper, it definitely won’t be his last. While he doesn’t have a favourite section yet, he certainly enjoyed the challenge of finding Colin. His top advice? Colin needs to up his game and make it really hard next time.

A big thanks to Lane’s nanny for helping him submit his entry and sending in the photo, and of course, a huge congratulations to Lane for catching Colin.

Special shout-out to 2nd snapper Rachele Lazzaroni, who also found Colin but just wasn't quick enough this time!

Well done, Lane! I'm heading back to the swamp to rethink my hiding strategy... until next time, later 'gators!

I’m grateful to once again share a few words in the wonderful Hinchinbrook Life.

Reflecting on the month of May, what a vibrant and eventful time it was across our beautiful region! From Link2Country to local fishing competitions, Playtime at Hinchinbrook Library in TYTO, Tea and Trivia, Find Your Futures, Theatre performances at the Shire Hall, and our heartwarming Baby Welcoming Ceremony. May certainly reminded us of how active, inclusive, and special our community truly is.

June promises just as much excitement in our slice of paradise. If you're visiting Hinchinbrook during the winter months, let me extend a very warm welcome – we’re delighted to have you here!

This month, various markets will be popping up across our district – check in with your local Progress Association for details on events happening in our glorious beaches, parks, and town centres.

One major highlight is Tasman Turtle’s Community Fun Picnic Day on Saturday, 14 June 2025, held in at the beautiful TYTO Parklands off Macrossan Avenue. There will be plenty of stalls and fun for the whole family – it’s not to be missed!

A quick reminder that the Hinchinbrook Aquatic Centre is now operating under its winter opening hours. You can contact the centre directly or visit their social media pages for the latest updates.

Also, with the annual cane harvesting season kicking off this month, please be extra cautious on our roads. Keep an eye out for cane trains and flashing lights at Wilmar rail crossings to ensure everyone stays safe.

Lastly, I want to take a moment to acknowledge those who may still be feeling the impact of February’s flooding event. Please know you're not alone. The Recovery Team is still helping with referrals, and the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre along with our local NDIS providers, are available to assist with any ongoing needs. If you’re unsure where to find these services, don’t hesitate to contact Council on 4776 4600 or drop into the Council office and our friendly staff are here to help.

Let’s continue supporting one another and celebrating all that makes Hinchinbrook such a wonderful place to live and visit.