Photos supplied  

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From morning teas and trivia to therapy dogs and plenty of laughter, seniors across the Cassowary Coast have been making the most of Queensland Seniors Month this October.

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This year's theme, Connect and Celebrate, has been brought to life through a range of activities at libraries across the region, providing opportunities to catch up with old friends, make new ones and enjoy some light-hearted fun.

Celebrations in Cardwell, Mission Beach and Tully have brought plenty of smiles, with participants sharing their appreciation for the chance to get together.

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"Lovely morning, everybody enjoyed themselves," was one happy response.

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Another participant summed up the occasion: "Was a fun morning. Thank you. We did have lots of fun and laughter. Stan's jokes were a hoot."

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And the celebrations aren't over yet!

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Innisfail Library will host a special Seniors Month gathering this Wednesday 21st October, from 10am to noon.

The event begins with morning tea at 10am, followed by games and activities from 10.30am, including intergenerational interviews with Cassowary Coast youth, trivia, Name the Song and Name the Famous Australian Sports Star.

It's another chance to enjoy some friendly competition, share a few stories and celebrate the valuable connections between generations.

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And while Seniors Month officially wraps up on 31st October, the opportunities to stay connected continue throughout the year, with local libraries offering regular activities including Scrabble, Mahjong, Craft & Laugh, Conversation Caféand Tech Help.

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See more photos here: www.hinchinbrooklife.com/social-pics/seniors-month-brings-fun-across-the-cassowary-coast

Volunteers removed over 100 kilograms of rubbish from Clump Point during two clean-ups last year Images supplied: Tangaroa Blue Foundation

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A few hours of volunteering can make a big difference to our marine environment, and Cassowary Coast residents are being encouraged to roll up their sleeves for the Clump Point beach clean-up on Sunday 25th October.

Organised by the Tangaroa Blue Foundation through its Great Barrier Reef Clean-up program, the afternoon event will bring volunteers together to remove marine debris from the Clump Point headland and nearby historic fish traps.

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Local coordinator Attie Willy, who has been organising clean-ups across the Cassowary Coast for around five years, says every piece of rubbish collected helps protect the region's precious coastal environment and marine life.

"It's not only an important traditional owners' site, but the southeasterly trade winds often put lots of marine debris onto the Clump Point headland," Attie explained.

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With larger tides approaching and the turtle breeding season underway, removing marine debris is particularly important.

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Last year, volunteers removed 110 kilograms of marine debris during two clean-ups at Clump Point and the Fish Traps. A further 76 kilograms was collected in March this year.

The upcoming event follows a successful clean-up at Kennedy Bay earlier this month, where volunteers removed an impressive 187 kilograms of rubbish, supported by the Girringun Land and Sea Rangers and Cassowary Coast Regional Council.

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Importantly, the collected debris is weighed and identified, with information entered into the Australian Marine Debris Initiative database. This national monitoring program helps identify pollution sources and trends, contributing to long-term strategies to reduce marine debris.

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THE DETAILS

Everyone is welcome to participate, with gloves and rubbish bags provided. Volunteers should wear sturdy enclosed shoes, bring sun protection, suitable weather gear and drinking water, preferably in a reusable bottle.

The clean-up runs from 2.00 pm to 4.30 pm on Sunday 25th October, meeting at the amenities block at the northern end of Porter Promenade, Mission Beach.

Register at atalanta@tangaroablue.org  

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Jacob Cassady and Kurt Harlow, represented here by Chamber President Mary Brown, took home top individual awards. Photo source: Mary Brown

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Two Hinchinbrook tourism operators swept up top honours at the North Queensland Tourism and Events Awards in Townsville on Friday 16^th October  

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Managing Director of Mungalla Aboriginal Tours Jacob Cassady won the Richard Power Award for Outstanding Contribution by an Individual, while Kurt Harlow of Hidden Valley Cabins and Tours received the Graham Jackson Young Achiever Award.  

Hinchinbrook Visitor Information Centre team are also celebrating recognition as finalists in two categories.

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Hinchinbrook Tourism Operators Recognised At North Queensland Awards

Two Hinchinbrook tourism operators have been recognised for their contributions to the region’s tourism industry, taking home top honours at the North Queensland Tourism and Events Awards.

Managing Director of Mungalla Aboriginal Tours Jacob Cassady won the Richard Power Award for Outstanding Contribution by an Individual, while Kurt Harlow of Hidden Valley Cabins and Tours received the Graham Jackson Young Achiever Award.

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Mungalla Aboriginal Tours are operated at Mungalla Station, approximately 12 kilometres east of Ingham, conducting tours and experiences that blend Nywaigi Aboriginal culture with pioneering history.  

According to the company’s mission statement, the homestead is a resource owned by Nywaigi Traditional Owners for the purpose of fostering Aboriginal cultural values by building economic and cultural opportunities for future generations through the careful use of Country, inviting visitors to experience ancient lands through ancient hands.

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“Indigenous-led tourism is an incredible way to create a genuine connection between visitors and Country,” Mr. Cassady recently told Townsville Enterprise.

"We’ve seen first-hand people don’t just want to see the landscape - they want to understand its history and hear its stories from the people who have cared for it for thousands of years.” 

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Hidden Valley Cabins & Tours is an eco-retreat venue which has been family owned and operated near the Paluma Range for over 35 years.  

The team praised Tour Guide Kurt Harlow on his recent win for the company.

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“For those who know Kurt, you know just how much heart, passion, knowledge and dedication he pours into everything he does,” a spokesperson shared.  

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“Kurt is so much more than a tour guide. His genuine love and respect for the natural world, his passion for conservation, sustainability and education, and his ability to share that knowledge with people from all walks of life is something truly special.

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“But behind all of that is also a husband, father, friend and one of the driving forces behind our little family business.”

President of the Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Tourism Mary Brown attended the awards, congratulating both winners on their achievements.

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“It was a privilege to be present to witness two of Hinchinbrook’s tourism operators announced as winners,” Ms Brown said.

She also acknowledged the Hinchinbrook Visitor Information Centre team, who were finalists in two categories.

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“Wonderful to acknowledge the many talented and committed people who support and deliver the diverse tourism experiences into the Hinchinbrook Shire,” Ms Brown said.

The North Queensland Tourism and Events Awards recognise excellence across the region’s tourism industry, celebrating the people, places, organisations and events that go above and beyond to deliver outstanding visitor experiences throughout Townsville North Queensland.

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One of the most common concerns I hear from residents across the Hinchinbrook Shire is the rising cost of insurance.

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Whether it's homeowners, families, retirees, farmers or small business owners, more people are telling us that insurance is becoming increasingly difficult to afford. For some, it is no longer just a financial inconvenience. It is becoming a significant source of stress and uncertainty.

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To better understand the challenges facing our community, Council recently undertook the Hinchinbrook Insurance Affordability and Availability Survey 2026. More than 300 residents took the time to share their experiences, providing valuable insight into the real impacts insurance costs are having across our region.

The findings paint a concerning picture.

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More than three-quarters of respondents reported insurance premiums are unaffordable, while many also identified high excesses, limited insurer choice and concerns surrounding flood insurance as major issues. Many residents indicated they have reduced their level of cover, increased their excesses or are considering going without certain insurance products altogether to manage rising household costs.

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The survey also highlighted widespread concern that insurance pricing does not always reflect the individual circumstances of a property. Many residents believe resilience measures such as raising homes, improving drainage, strengthening buildings and undertaking flood mitigation works should be better recognised when premiums are calculated.

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Importantly, this survey was undertaken as part of Council's ongoing recovery and advocacy efforts following the February 2025 flooding event. As our community continues to rebuild and strengthen its resilience, access to affordable and appropriate insurance remains a critical issue.

Council recognises that affordable insurance is about more than protecting buildings. It is about supporting confidence, financial security and the long-term resilience of our communities.

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On behalf of Council, I would like to sincerely thank everyone who took the time to complete the survey. The strong response from across the Shire demonstrates how important this issue is to our community. Your feedback has provided Council with valuable information that will strengthen our advocacy efforts and help ensure the experiences of Hinchinbrook residents are heard in discussions with governments, regulators and the insurance industry.

The findings of the Hinchinbrook Insurance Affordability and Availability Survey 2026 will be formally noted by Council at next week's Ordinary Meeting of Council and will help guide our ongoing advocacy with governments, industry stakeholders and insurance providers.

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The message from our community is clear: regional residents want fairer insurance outcomes, greater transparency and pricing that recognises individual property risk and resilience measures.

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Council will continue advocating strongly on behalf of our residents to ensure the voices of Hinchinbrook are heard and considered in future discussions around insurance affordability, availability and reform.

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Teaching Principal Laura-Beth Martin outside Abergowrie State School. Photo supplied

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Abergowrie State School Teaching Principal Laura-Beth Martin has been recognised for her outstanding contribution to education, receiving the Dr John Dwyer Excellent Leadership in Teaching and Learning Award at the 2026 Queensland College of Teachers (QCT) TEACHX Awards.

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The Queensland-wide awards celebrate excellence across the teaching profession, recognising educators who make a meaningful difference to students, colleagues and their wider school communities.

This year, the QCT received 375 nominations across all categories, with 84 shortlisted candidates and 26 award recipients recognised for their achievements across Queensland.

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For Laura-Beth, receiving the prestigious honour while leading a small rural school is a particularly meaningful achievement, reflecting her commitment to ensuring every child has access to quality learning opportunities, regardless of where they live.

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“I feel incredibly honoured and humbled to receive this award. To be recognised alongside so many inspiring educators from across Queensland is something I never imagined,” Laura-Beth said.

“Being a Teaching Principal in a small rural school means wearing many hats, but it also provides the wonderful opportunity to really know every child, their family and their individual strengths.

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“I have always believed that a child's postcode or the size of their school should never determine the opportunities available to them. Every child deserves to feel seen, valued and connected, and to have access to meaningful learning experiences that help them thrive.”

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Beginning her career in rural North Queensland, Laura-Beth has built a strong culture of belonging at Abergowrie State School through meaningful relationships with students, families and the wider community.

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Her leadership has extended beyond the classroom, with a commitment to reconciliation and cultural awareness strengthened through collaboration with Warrgamay Elders. This work contributed to Abergowrie State School receiving the 2024 Queensland Reconciliation Education Award.

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She has also championed nature-based and play-focused learning initiatives, creating opportunities for students to explore, develop new skills and learn beyond traditional classroom settings.

The Dr John Dwyer Excellent Leadership in Teaching and Learning Award recognises educators who demonstrate exceptional leadership, empower colleagues, positively influence their school communitiesand make an outstanding contribution to the teaching profession.

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Laura-Beth acknowledged that the recognition extended beyond her individual efforts, highlighting the collective work of the school community in supporting students and creating an environment where they can thrive.

“This award is not just about me. It reflects the dedication of our wonderful staff, the support of our families and the strong relationships we have built with our wider community,” she said.

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“At Abergowrie State School, we often say ‘Small School, Big Heart’, and I think this award is a lovely reminder that exceptional educational leadership isn't determined by the size of a school, but by the difference we make in the lives of children.

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“I am incredibly proud of our little school and what we continue to achieve together.”

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The 2026 TEACHX Awards recognised educators from metropolitan and regional settings, including Mossman, Abergowrie, Cloncurry, Rockhampton and Toowoomba, highlighting the important work being undertaken in schools across Queensland.

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Laura-Beth’s achievement will be celebrated with her students, colleagues and the broader Abergowrie community, alongside Hinchinbrook MP Wayde Chiesa. A date for the local celebration is yet to be confirmed.

Her recognition is a proud moment for Abergowrie State School and the wider Hinchinbrook community, demonstrating that the impact of strong educational leadership is not measured by the size of a school, but by the opportunities and impact created for its students.

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‍Students preparing for the 2026 Maraka Street Parade. Photos supplied

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Contributed with thanks by Gilroy Santa Maria College

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As this year’s Ingham Maraka Festival bursts to life with the vibrant energy and rhythm of Rio Carnivale, students from Gilroy Santa Maria College are stepping out in a Walk of Gratitude dedicated to the true heartbeat of our community: our local service groups and sporting clubs.

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Every weekend, match day, and late afternoon, these volunteer organisations and sports clubs quietly uplift Hinchinbrook. They mentor our youth, support our families, and fuel our unstoppable local spirit. They are the driving force that elevates Ingham, and they deserve nothing less than our entire town lining the streets in their honour.

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Channelling the colourful celebration of Carnivale while carrying messages of deep appreciation, GSMC students will march to salute these unsung heroes who give so tirelessly without ever asking for recognition.

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We invite every resident to crowd the footpaths, cheer with pride, and join the Carnivale celebration as we applaud the volunteers and clubs who make our region extraordinary. Come along to the MarakaFestival and let’s give our local champions the grand tribute they truly deserve!

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Our Lady of Lourdes Year 5 students enjoyed an unforgettable Leadership Camp at Echo Creek. Photos supplied: Our Lady of Lourdes

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Contributed with thanks by Our Lady of Lourdes

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Last week, our Year 5 students enjoyed an unforgettable Leadership Camp at Echo Creek, embracing adventure, challenging themselves and developing the skills they will need to become confident and capable leaders in 2027.

Our experience began with a visit to the Cardwell Historical Museum, where students explored the rich history of our local region. They learnt about significant cyclones, discovered how people communicated before modern technology and explored the fascinating world of Morse code. Students impressed us with their ability to recall and share interesting facts, bringing local history to life and deepening their understanding of our community.

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Upon arrival at Echo Creek, the adventure continued with an action-packed program delivered by Wildside Adventures. From muddy obstacle courses and challenging climbs to balancing, abseiling and rock climbing, students were encouraged to step outside their comfort zones. Throughout each activity, they demonstrated courage, resilience and determination, supporting one another and celebrating each other's achievements.

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Teamwork was a key focus, particularly during the raft-building challenge. Students collaborated to design and construct rafts capable of carrying their entire team across the dam. The challenge tested their communication, creativity and problem-solving skills, highlighting the importance of listening, sharing ideas and working towards a common goal.

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There were plenty of laughs and some creative designs along the way!

The fun continued after the day's activities, with an outdoor movie under the stars, card and board games, and entertaining rounds of charades. These relaxed moments provided wonderful opportunities to strengthen friendships, connect with peers and create lasting memories.

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One of the most rewarding aspects of the camp was witnessing the growth in students' confidence and independence. Whether encouraging a friend, contributing ideas during a team challenge or demonstrating kindness towards others, our Year 5 students displayed many of the qualities of effective leaders.

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We extend a heartfelt thank you to our dedicated staff and supportive families for helping make this experience possible. We are especially grateful to Allan and the wonderful teams at Echo Creek and Wildside Adventures for their hospitality, encouragement and the outstanding opportunities provided to our students.

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Filled with adventure, teamwork, laughter and personal growth, the camp was a valuable opportunity for students to discover their strengths and learn the importance of supporting others.

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Our Year 5 students have returned with wonderful memories, stronger friendships and growing confidence. We look forward to seeing them put these skills into practice as they step into their leadership roles in 2027!

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Students enjoyed their lessons in the pool. Photos supplied: Halifax State School

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Contributed with thanks by Halifax State School

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As the weather warms and the school year enters its final term, students at Halifax State School are diving into an exciting and valuable component of the Health and Physical Education (HPE) curriculum through the school's annual swimming program.

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Swimming is a vital life skill for all Australian children, particularly in Queensland, where waterways, beaches, and pools are a significant part of everyday life. Throughout Term 4, students have been participating in structured swimming lessons designed to build water confidence, improve swimming techniques, and develop essential water safety knowledge.

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The program caters to students of varying abilities, ensuring every child has the opportunity to learn and progress at their own level. From beginners gaining confidence in the water to more experienced swimmers refining their strokes, each lesson provides a supportive environment where students can challenge themselves and celebrate personal achievements.

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Teachers have been pleased to see the enthusiasm and determination shown by students. Beyond physical skill development, swimming lessons encourage resilience, perseverance, and self-confidence. Many students have demonstrated significant growth as they overcome fears, master new techniques, and support their peers throughout the program.

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The benefits of swimming extend well beyond the pool. Regular participation in aquatic activities promotes fitness, coordination, strength, and overall wellbeing. Just as importantly, students learn potentially life-saving water safety skills that can help them make safe decisions around aquatic environments.

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Halifax State School values opportunities that provide meaningful, real-world learning experiences, and the Term 4 swimming program continues to be a highlight of the HPE curriculum. The success of the program would not be possible without the support of dedicated staff, swimming instructors, and families who help ensure students can participate and thrive.

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As students continue making waves throughout the term, the school community is proud of their efforts and looks forward to seeing them build confidence and skills that will benefit them both in and out of the water for years to come.

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Photos supplied Ingham State High School

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Ingham State High School is proud to recognise the exceptional accomplishments of the following students, who have achieved a perfect score of 100% in all Internal Assessments this year.  

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This remarkable achievement reflects not only their diligence and determination but also their passion for learning and commitment to excellence.  

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Congratulations to Year 12 students:  

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Harry Flood who excelled in both Specialist Mathematics and Chemistry;  

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Nalini Schofield, Olivia Bishop and Keldon Fletcher who all achieved a perfect score in both Mathematical Methods and Chemistry; and

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Lucas Fallea who attained full marks in Biology.  

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Behind every successful student is a strong team. We proudly acknowledge the expertise and dedication of our teachers, the encouragement and support of families, and the contribution of our wider school community in helping our students reach their potential.

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At Ingham High, we believe in ‘𝗨𝗻𝗹𝗼𝗰𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗼𝗳 𝗘𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝗦𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁’, and the achievements of our Class of 2026 demonstrate what is possible when students are supported to aim high and believe in themselves.  

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Contributed with thanks by Ingham State High School

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Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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By Victoria Velton

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Welcome to the Cutting The Cane, a column where we have a chat with those supporting the backbone of the local economy: the farmers behind the sugar. This week Sam Torrisi, the current Director of CANEGROWERS Herbert River, who has been growing cane in the region for over 40 years, answered our questions with his multi-farm operation in mind. His paddocks span Upper Stone, Fairford, Cordelia and Sunnybank Sub-Districts.

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What stage are your paddocks at now?
With only around 4 weeks left of the crushing season, 2 of our 4 farms are cut out with around 10% of our total crop left to be harvested. The recent rain in the Lower Herbert and Central farms has allowed young ratoons and plant cane to grow nicely. But the Upper Stone farm, which missed out on those heavier showers, is looking for a drink. Sugar content has been very good this year, the best since 2019, but overall yield is down again.  

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This is very disappointing, with the Herbert district recording its fourth consecutive year crushing below four million tonnes of cane, despite having the capacity to crush nearly five million tonnes. Maximising the value of our crops must be a priority, and starting the season too early or finishing too late is not the answer. The focus must be on harvesting the majority of the crop between early July and late October.

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Consistently returning crushing rates to more than 200,000 tonnes per week is also essential, and this is an achievable target.

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What varieties of cane are you growing?
I try and spread the risk by planting a couple of varieties. Depending on soil type, the main varieties I’ve planted are Q253, Q200, Q208, SRA 28, SRA 6 and SRA 26. Unfortunately, SRA 26 which was showing promise, is now underperforming in older ratoons in heavy clay soils.  

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This year I am trying some of the newer varieties such as SRA 40 and SRA 43 to see how they will perform, but I also planted the older varieties like Q200 and Q253, which I’ve been able to still rely on. I also tried some tissue culture seedlings of SRA 32 and hope this variety will perform well.

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What challenges have faced your crops this year?
The Upper Stone farm is by far the driest of all the farms, not only dry ground conditions but cane grub damage this year has affected a lot of plants causing them to die out and not ratoon there. SRA is currently doing trials to see how effective the current insecticides are performing and what possible new insecticides could be effective against controlling cane grubs.

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With the wet season looming, how are you preparing to face the seasonal change?
With the possible wet season not far off, as a grower, I am very mindful of the potential flooding that can occur. If I know for certain that a ploughed-out block will be subjected to high waterflow across it, I will take the option to spray the ratoons out leaving it uncultivated with a trash blanket.  

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This is to preserve the topsoil from washing away, which was evident in the 2025 floods where many cultivated fallows blocks were badly eroded. Once that topsoil is gone it’s gone forever.  

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All the Senior Leaders of the school with Principal Johanna Smith Photos supplied: GSMC

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Contributed with thanks by Gilroy Santa Maria College

Term 4 has started with much momentum and excitement at Gilroy Santa Maria College, especially for Year 11 and 12 students.  

The Year 12 cohort has been truly shining with their academic achievements. Queensland Curriculum Authority (QCAA) have confirmed that multiple students have achieved 100% in their recent internal assessments. This success is the result of countless hours of effort by the students and is shaping bright futures for 2027 and beyond.

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These students are currently in their final week of classes, with Year 12 external exam block commencing from Monday 26th October.  

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While this chapter is coming to a close, another is just beginning for the current Year 11 GSMC students. Recently, students with aspirations of leading the College in 2027 experienced the process of applying for a leadership position. From their written application, through to speaking in front of the entire student body and sitting through interviews with Senior Leaders of the school, the students demonstrated courage, passion and resilience.  

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Leading GSMC in 2027 will be;

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College Captains: Joel Accornero, Ciera Fichera and Summer Christopher.  

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Pillar Captains: Daniel Winstone, Chloe Bradd and Kaitlyn Rapista.  

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House Captains:
Rice - Sofia Inunciaga and Ben Poggio.  
O’Meara - Molly-Rose Gaggiano and Liam Swarbrick.  
McAuley - Allie Gaggiano and Maximo Lenzo.

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The 2027 elected leaders will commence their duties across Term 4, with the current Student Leaders completing their duties at the GSMC Awards Night this Thursday.

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Introducing Speckles, a delightful cat whose unique speckled coat is as charming as her personality! This young feline mother was discovered on the goldfields, living under a container, and has now stepped into town life to find a new, loving place she can truly call home. With her tabby stripes interspersed with flecks of gold, it's as though her fur is sprinkled with tiny treasures, adding to her distinct and captivating appearance.

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Speckles is not just a pretty face; she has a friendly disposition that suggests she was once a cherished companion. While Speckles is yet to be introduced to other animals, her amiable nature indicates she could adjust well, given a gentle and patient introduction.  

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With Speckles in your life, you'll gain not just a pet, but a little piece of gold. She is ready to fill a special place in your heart and home with her warmth and grace. If you're ready to embrace the joys of sharing your life with this endearing and unique companion, she could be the perfect addition to your home.

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Included in adoption fee of $225 DESEXED, MICRO-CHIPPED, up to date VACCINATIONS, FLEA/TICK/INTESTINAL WORM treated. Enquire today at angelpawsinc.com.au/pets-for-adoption/cats/

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Sex: Female
Breed: Domestic Short Hair
Colour: Brown-Orange Tabby
DOB: 01/09/2025
Cat Friendly: Yes
Dog Friendly: Unsure
Kid Friendly: Unsure

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Nicole Chiesa, one of the two recipients of the 2026 Tim Fischer Fellowship. Photo supplied

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North Queensland agricultural business owner and Link 2 Country co-founder Nicole Chiesa has been named one of the 2026 Tim Fischer Fellows, receiving access to a national CEF support network to bring ambitious education projects with the potential to create lasting change across rural and regional Australia to life.  

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Established in honour of former Deputy Prime Minister and CEF founding Patron Tim Fischer AC, the Fellowship backs people with the vision, passion and practical ideas to create meaningful opportunities for rural and regional communities.

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CEF CEO Wendy Mason said the decision reflected both the strength of this year’s applications and the enormous potential of Nicole's project.

“The Tim Fischer Fellowship was created to back people who understand regional Australia, who see an opportunity to make a difference and have the determination to turn an idea into something practical,” Ms Mason said.  

This year the panel was presented with two exceptional projects addressing very different, but equally important, challenges facing regional communities. Rather than choose between them, they invested in both.  

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“Nicole and Erin [the other recipient] share the qualities this Fellowship is designed to support — strong connections to rural and regional communities, a genuine commitment to education and a clear vision for creating change that can extend well beyond the life of the Fellowship.”  

Nicole Chiesa, from Ingham, will use her Fellowship to expand the Agri Life Skills Program developed through social enterprise Link 2 Country, creating a repeatable model that can be delivered through agricultural shows, field days, careers expos and community events across rural and regional Australia.  

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Drawing on a career with experience across cattle stations, agricultural education, rural merchandise and her family’s sugarcane harvesting business, Nicole has seen first-hand the difficulties regional businesses can face attracting the next generation of workers.  

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The Agri Life Skills Program gives young people hands-on exposure to agriculture and other regional industries while connecting them directly with employers, education providers and training pathways. More than 1,000 young people have already participated in Link 2 Country initiatives, developing practical and employability skills while discovering careers they may otherwise never have considered.  

Nicole will use the Fellowship to develop a digital platform supporting school registrations, compliance, resources and communication, together with a repeatable program model that communities can adapt to their own industries, workforce needs and opportunities.  

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“For me, this is about giving young people the chance to have a go, discover what interests them and meet the people who can help open doors for their future,” Ms Chiesa said.  

“There are incredible careers and opportunities in rural and regional Australia, but young people need the chance to see and experience them. By bringing education, industry and community together, we can help young people make informed choices about their future while building stronger, more connected regional communities.”  

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CEF Chair Nick Burton Taylor said both projects reflected Tim Fischer’s belief in the transformative power of education and opportunity for people living outside Australia’s major cities.  

“Tim understood that where you live should never determine the opportunities available to you,” Mr Burton Taylor said.

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Tim Fischer’s wife Judy Brewer said she believed her late husband would have been immensely proud to see the Fellowship supporting two projects with such strong connections to regional people and communities.  

“Tim was passionate about regional Australia and particularly about giving people, wherever they live, the education, confidence and opportunities they needed to build their futures,” Ms Brewer said.  

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“He believed strongly in people who were prepared to have a go and turn good ideas into practical action."

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After recently attending the locally initiated Spotlight on Seafood opening, congratulations to the organisers, I was reminded of the increasing pressures facing two industries fundamental to our region: fishing and agriculture.

Sensible regulation is necessary. Our farmers and professional fishers understand the importance of protecting the environment because their livelihoods depend on healthy land and waterways. But there must be balance.

Commercial fishers now face the phase-out of inshore net fishing by mid-2027, affecting traditional methods used to catch species including barramundi and king salmon. After decades of adapting to changing regulations, we must ask whether the cumulative impact is threatening the viability of local professional fishing.

Do we want to become increasingly reliant on seafood sourced from elsewhere while reducing the ability of generational local fishers to supply fresh wild-caught seafood?

Sugarcane farmers are facing similar challenges. Regulatory decisions have removed or restricted important agricultural chemicals, including chlorpyrifos, known as Suscon, to control the cane grubs, whose immediate effects we are seeing now, with cane grub damage reducing crop yield and crop cycles. Whilst paraquat use in sugarcane to control certain invasive weeds is also being phased out under new regulatory arrangements.

Health and environmental protection are important, but so too are food production, regional employment and viable family businesses.

The issue is not whether we should have regulation. The issue is whether we have achieved the right balance between environmental protection and maintaining sustainable, productive local industries.

Once professional fishers, farmers, infrastructure and generations of knowledge disappear, they will be difficult to replace.

Our fishing and agricultural industries provide food, employment and economic activity while forming an important part of the identity of regional communities.

We must ensure regulation supports responsible primary production rather than making it increasingly difficult to continue.

Our primary industries helped build regional Australia and we must make sure they remain part of its future. We should protect our environment, but we must also protect the responsible primary producers who feed us and sustain regional Australia.

Until next time Hinchinbrook residents, take care, stay safe and be kind.

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Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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Kaiti-Rae Beatts | 24

Service Club Sponsor: Apex Club of Herbert River

Hobbies & Interests

Kaiti-Rae loves photography, capturing Hinchinbrook’s landscapes, wildlife and people, as well as spending time outdoors with her dogs. At home, she enjoys cooking for loved ones, crocheting gifts and writing her fantasy adventure novel. She is passionate about supporting her community, serving as Youth Co-Ordinator for the Purple Bucket Foundation and helping organise local fundraisers, including Ronald McDonald McHappy Day. She is also an active member of the Hinchinbrook Agricultural Show Committee.

Life Goals

Kaiti-Rae hopes to publish her fantasy novel and see it available in local shops or the community library. As a young homeowner, she also dreams of growing her family, continuing to support local eventsand one day organising her own community events in Hinchinbrook.

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Paige Williamson | 23

Service Club Sponsor: Lions Club of Ingham

Hobbies & Interests

Paige enjoys photography, camping and heading out on new adventures. Whether she is exploring the outdoors or capturing special moments behind the camera, she loves making memories along the way. Spending quality time with her family is also important to her, and she enjoys sharing life's experiences with the people closest to her.

Life Goals

Paige dreams of travelling the world, discovering new places and experiencing different cultures. She hopes to explore as much of the world as possible, embracing new adventures and making lasting memories along the way.

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Janae Pearce | 20

Service Club Sponsor: Lions Club of Lower Herbert Halifax

Hobbies & Interests

Janae has a passion for musical theatre, sport and content creation. She enjoys playing touch football and netball, while her interest in Indigenous studies reflects her commitment to learning more about culture, identity and community. Janae is enthusiastic about developing her creative talents and expanding her knowledge both on and off the stage.

Life Goals

Janae hopes to complete university, strengthen and support local Indigenous communities, and continue developing her skills and knowledge in musical theatre. She also dreams of travelling, exploring new places and broadening her experiences along the way.

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Brianna Lamari | 24

Service Club Sponsor: Rotary Club of Hinchinbrook

Hobbies & Interests

Brianna enjoys keeping active through squash and has achieved her second-degree black belt in taekwondo. A passionate football fan, she also loves spending time with family and friends. Whether she is pursuing her sporting interests or enjoying time with loved ones, Brianna values staying connected to the people and activities she enjoys.

Life Goals

Brianna hopes to put down roots in Hinchinbrook, own her own home with a large backyard and raise a family in the community she loves. She also dreams of sharing her home with a few adopted animals, creating a happy and welcoming place for her family to grow.

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