Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
World Teachers' Day, celebrated across Queensland on Friday 30th October, was an opportunity to recognise the remarkable people who educate, encourage and inspire our children. And at Tully State High School, few know the rewards of teaching better than Glenda Tenni whose connection to the school stretches back more than half a century. Glenda's education began at Feluga State School, where she followed in the footsteps of her mother and siblings, before moving to Tully State High School as a student in 1970. It was here that commerce teacher Bernadette Cuoco helped inspire her future career. "I just enjoyed my subjects. I had a good teacher and I excelled at my subjects. And I always thought, this is what I want to do," Glenda recalled. After completing teacher training at Kelvin Grove College in Brisbane, Glenda taught in Charters Towers and Ingham before returning to Tully. She later stepped away from teaching to raise her family and help run the family bulk fuel business. But the classroom eventually called her back. For the past 26 years, Glenda has been a familiar face at Tully State High School, initially teaching commerce before becoming the school's e-learning coordinator in 2014. It's a role that has opened new opportunities for students, allowing them to study subjects not offered through the school's regular curriculum, including economics, accounting and philosophy, as well as undertaking TAFE qualifications and school-based traineeships. Around 122 students have participated in e-learning this year, Glenda says many arrive as early as 8am to begin their studies. Among them is Year 12 student Saniya Singh who is completing a Certificate II in Skills for Work and Vocational Placement. For Glenda, it's this individual support that makes the role particularly rewarding. "I really enjoy my job as e-learning coordinator. You get to know students on a more personal level," she said. And while Glenda will celebrate her 70th birthday next year, retirement isn't on the agenda just yet. "Not while I still think I've got something to give," she said. Glenda’s story perfectly captures this year's World Teachers' Day theme, 'Teachers change lives'. Inspired by one of her own teachers more than 50 years ago, Glenda continues to make a difference for the next generation. 1: Tully State High School's Glenda Tenni with Year 12 student Saniya Singh in the school's e-learning centre. Celebrating All Our Teachers As schools across the Cassowary Coast celebrated World Teachers' Day on Friday, Cassowary Coast Life joins the community in thanking every teacher for their dedication, patience and encouragement, and the countless ways they help young people achieve their potential. 2: Tully State High School’s Year 11 Hospitality students and Student Leadership Team treated teachers and staff to a delicious lunch in celebration of World Teachers’ Day. 3: Teachers Mrs Jarvis, Mr Dennis and Ms Tonks? 4: Mr Ambrum 5: Miss Willis, Mr James and Mr Newman 6: The Rainforest School at Mission Beach celebrated Halloween with their teachers on World Teacher’s Day 7: Students at Silkwood State School created cards for their teachers 8: Tully State School teachers got in the Halloween spirit on World Teacher’s Day
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By Helen Cook For almost 90 years, the magnificent Kauri pines lining Butler Street beside the Tully Showgrounds have stood watch over the town, surviving cyclones, changing streetscapes and generations of community life. Now, the possibility that some may need to be removed has sparked considerable discussion on social media, with locals sharing memories, expressing concern and questioning what might be done to preserve them. Thanks to research shared by local historian Helen Pedley, we know the remarkable story behind these trees. Cardwell Shire Council minutes from April 1937 record the decision to plant 12 trees alongside the showgrounds and three opposite, commemorating the coronation of King George VI. A procession made its way to the showgrounds, where Shire Chairman Cr Bryce Henry officially planted the trees, accompanied by speeches, music, dancing and celebrations. The road was even named Coronation Avenue, although it was formally confirmed as Butler Street in 1995. Over the years they've certainly weathered their share of storms. Cyclone Yasi in 2011 stripped them almost bare, leaving what Mayor Teresa Millwood recently described as enormous matchsticks. Responding to community concerns on social media regarding their removal, Mayor Millwood acknowledged their historical importance while explaining Council's responsibility for public safety. She confirmed assessments were continuing, with no final decision made, although she stated that some trees had sustained damage beyond repair. Local arborist Mark Gough of Gough Tree Services offered another perspective, suggesting that while two trees showed signs of rot likely to warrant removal within the next couple of years, the remainder appeared relatively healthy and structurally sound. "There is no reason they can't continue to be managed and monitored into the future," he Next year, Tully's Coronation pines turn 90. Some residents are calling for the community to celebrate their remarkable history while working together to preserve as many as safely possible. The Kauri pines lining Butler Street beside the Tully Showgrounds. Image credit: Helen Cook
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It was a morning of friendship, laughter and appreciation as Tully Meals on Wheels volunteers gathered for their annual thank you morning tea, celebrating the people who generously give their time to support others. Held at the Tully Leagues Club, the gathering was an opportunity for President Leslee Morgan to thank the more than 40 volunteer cooks, kitchen assistants and drivers who keep this much-loved community service running. In the last financial year alone, volunteers prepared and delivered 4,593 meals, providing not just nutritious food but a friendly face and welcome connection for local residents. Among those celebrating was 90-year-old Pauline Edwards, whose remarkable association with Tully Meals on Wheels stretches back to its beginnings in 1979. "I went to the first meeting to see whether Tully needed a Meals on Wheels," Pauline recalled. Little did she know that 47 years later, she'd still be helping coordinate thousands of meals each year. Today, Pauline is the kitchen convener, overseeing menus, ordering supplies and coordinating the volunteers who keep everything running smoothly. From humble beginnings, when just three people received meals on the first delivery day, the service has grown to provide around 30 meals each Monday, Wednesday and Friday. And the favourites? Fish on Fridays, spaghetti and homemade soups, often featuring whatever fresh ingredients are available. Over the years, Meals on Wheels has supported countless residents, from older people living independently to those recovering from illness or needing temporary assistance. New volunteers are always welcome to help when regular volunteers aren’t available. To lend a hand, contact Tully Meals on Wheels on 4068 1497. Serving up thanks to a dedicated team As the volunteers gathered for their annual morning tea, it was a reminder that the strength of Meals on Wheels lies not just in the meals prepared and delivered, but in the friendships, kindness and community spirit that have sustained it for almost half a century. 1: Volunteers from left, standing: Mike, Louis and Michael; sitting Pauline (MOW Committee Member & Convenor), Dina and Chrissie 2: From left - Helen, Marcia, Judy, Eve, Lorraine and Trish 3: Lyn, Lynnie, Val, Veronica (MOW Secretary), Chris, Peter and Tricia (MOW Committee Member) 4: Jan and Jill 5: Sue and Marilyn
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By Victoria Velton Three Hinchinbrook schools joined forces on October 30th, creating a sea of red as students and staff took part in a Big Red Walk to promote child safety and support the Daniel Morcombe Foundation. Our Lady of Lourdes, St Peter’s Catholic School and Gilroy Santa Maria College came together for the annual event, which honours Daniel Morcombe and supports the work of his parents, Bruce and Denise Morcombe, who established the Daniel Morcombe Foundation following their son's death. The Foundation provides personal safety education to children and young people, encouraging them to recognise, react and report when they feel unsafe. Before setting off on their walk to the Botanical Gardens, students at Our Lady of Lourdes heard from Christie and Megan from the Student Protection Team at Townsville Catholic Education. “Our students [were reminded] of the importance of feeling safe every day, knowing their rights and understanding that their safety matters,” a spokesperson for the school said. Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa also marked the event, acknowledging the work of Bruce and Denise Morcombe and praising their commitment to improving child safety across Australia. “We remember Daniel Morcombe and honour his parents, Bruce and Denise, whose extraordinary strength and tireless work in his memory continue to help keep children safe across Australia,” Mr Chiesa said. He said the Foundation had helped children learn to recognise, react and report unsafe situations, while Daniel's Law was helping parents and guardians better protect their children. The schools thanked Queensland Police Service Highway Patrol and Police Liaison Officer Michelle Jardine for helping keep students safe along the walking route. Caption: Students from Our Lady of Lourdes, St Peter’s Catholic School and Gilroy Santa Maria College joined the Big Red Walk on October 30th, creating a sea of red in support of Day for Daniel and the Daniel Morcombe Foundation. Photo source: Our Lady of Lourdes & St Peter’s Catholic School
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selectability has supported thousands of people across regional Queensland on their NDIS journey. Photo supplied
Whether it's accessing the right supports, strengthening community connections, building independence or pursuing personal goals, selectability has supported thousands of people across regional Queensland on their journey towards achieving their NDIS aspirations.
For more than five years, the dedicated Ingham team has been helping local participants make the most of their NDIS plans through a range of personalised supports. From in-home and community-based assistance to support coordination and Clubhouse programs, the team empowers people to build independence, develop meaningful connections and achieve their goals.
Chief Operating Officer Aaron Farrell said the team was committed to providing tailored support to build independence, create connections and enrich the lives of Ingham locals.
"We believe that everyone deserves to live the life of their choice, regardless of their location, circumstances, diagnosis or situation," said Aaron.
"We understand that everyone is different, so we prioritise person-centred support alongside practical tools and strategies to enhance an individual's quality of life and support them to achieve their goals."
The team also provides support for those not on the NDIS or looking to apply, so if you or someone you care for is interested, pop into the Mental Health Hub at the Canegrowers Building, 11-13 Lannercost Street, Ingham and have a chat with the team.
You can find out more information on available NDIS services or the Clubhouse group program timetable at selectability.com.au.
Abergowrie State School Principal Laura-Beth Martin with the 2026 Showcase School Award. Photo supplied
By Victoria Velton
Abergowrie State School has taken out a Queensland Showcase School Award, with its small rural school community earning state recognition for its work in early years education.
The school was named the 2026 Showcase School Award winner for Excellence in Early Years Education (Kindergarten to Year 2), announced at a ceremony at Parliament House in Brisbane on World Teachers’ Day.
For Principal Laura-Beth Martin, the award is a proud moment for the school and recognition of what a small rural community can achieve.
“To stand alongside some of Queensland's larger primary schools and be recognised at a state level reinforces an important message: the size of a school does not determine the size of its impact,” Ms Martin said.
“Being a small rural school does not mean having smaller ambitions, fewer opportunities or a lesser vision for our students.”
Ms Martin said the achievement reflected the work of the school's educators, the strength of its community connections and a shared commitment to giving children a strong start to their education.
“At Abergowrie, we are proud of what can be achieved when passionate educators, strong community connections and a shared commitment to children's learning come together,” she said.
She said the school's team was central to the recognition, praising their dedication to providing quality teaching and building strong foundations for every child.
“As Principal, I am incredibly proud of our dedicated team. Their passion, commitment and genuine care for every child are what make our little school so special,” Ms Martin said.
The school's approach to early learning extends from its Cheeky Monkeys Playgroup and Kindy through to the primary years, with a focus on high-quality teaching, meaningful learning experiences, building strong foundations and inspiring curiosity and a love of learning.
Ms Martin said the award belonged to the entire school community.
“This award belongs to our whole school community. It celebrates the people, the relationships and the commitment that makes Abergowrie such a wonderful place to learn and grow,” she said.
“This recognition is a celebration of our journey, the foundations we continue to build and the belief that every child deserves an exceptional start to their education, no matter where they live or how big their school may be.”
The award was one of nine presented to Queensland state schools at the 2026 Showcase event, recognising programs and practices making a difference to students and their communities. Showcase schools share in $120,000 in funding to help extend and share their successful work.
“We are incredibly proud to represent rural education and to show that great things are happening in our little corner of North Queensland,” Ms Martin said.
By Victoria Velton
Local fisher Bradley Perkins has been appointed the new President of the Queensland Seafood Industry Association (QSIA) at the association’s annual general meeting in Bundaberg this week.
A third-generation inshore fisher from the Hinchinbrook region, Mr Perkins steps into the role following the departure of fellow North Queenslander Allan Bobbermen, who has served on the QSIA Board for 10 years, including five years as President.
Mr Perkins acknowledged Mr Bobbermen’s passionate and dedicated leadership, recognising the significant contribution he had made to representing Queensland’s commercial fishing industry through a period of considerable regulatory change.
He said Mr Bobbermen had been a strong advocate for commercial fishers, their families and the broader industry, helping ensure their voices and experience were represented in decisions affecting their livelihoods.
“I am honoured to take on the role and, on behalf of the Board and our members, I thank Allan for his service and the strong foundation he leaves behind,” Mr Perkins said.
Hinchinbrook will continue to have a strong presence on the association’s board, with local seafood business owner and industry advocate Rebecca Zaghini also appointed as a director for the coming year.
Ms Zaghini, who operates Wild Local in Ingham, joins Mr Perkins as a fellow Hinchinbrook representative, bringing her own experience and advocacy for the local seafood industry to the peak body.
The appointments provide the region with two local voices at the boardroom table, at a time when the commercial fishing sector continues to navigate regulatory pressures and the challenges of maintaining a profitable and sustainable industry.
The QSIA represents commercial fishing businesses from the New South Wales border to the Northern Territory border, covering line, pot, net and trawl fisheries, as well as businesses supporting the industry.
The Queensland commercial fishing industry contributed more than $250 million to the State’s gross value of production in 2021–22, supporting more than 900 businesses and around 3,000 jobs.
Cattle wandering by the road in Hinchinbrook. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
North Queensland cattle producers are being urged to keep a close eye on their herds as warmer temperatures and increasing moisture create favourable conditions for cattle ticks to survive and spread.
The Department of Primary Industries (DPI) is warning that conditions this spring and summer, combined with a warmer-than-average winter across much of Queensland, could increase the risk of cattle tick infestations.
Cattle ticks can affect livestock productivity and animal health, while also transmitting the blood parasites responsible for tick fever. Early detection and proactive management are important to protecting herds and reducing the risk to farm businesses.
Producers should regularly inspect cattle and other animals that can carry cattle ticks. These include buffalo, bison, deer, horses, sheep, goats and camelids. Newly introduced livestock should be isolated and checked for ticks before being mixed with the existing herd.
The DPI recommends producers:
If tick fever is suspected, producers should contact their veterinarian immediately.
Queensland has designated cattle tick zones, with different legal requirements applying to livestock movement. Producers should understand which zone their property is in and check the requirements before moving susceptible livestock.
Importantly, anyone who suspects cattle ticks are present in the cattle tick-free zone must notify Biosecurity Queensland.
With conditions expected to favour tick activity in the coming months, producers are encouraged to review their biosecurity plans and remain vigilant.
For further information about cattle tick management, treatment and livestock movement requirements, visit the Queensland Department of Primary Industries website at dpi.qld.gov.au or contact Biosecurity Queensland for advice.
Photos supplied
Good recycling habits are paying off across the Hinchinbrook Shire, with a recent kerbside bin audit showing most material placed in recycling bins is ending up in the right place.
The findings, recently reported through Council’s 2025-2026 Waste Services Annual Performance Report, also reveal simple opportunities for residents to recycle even more, reduce waste sent to landfill and make the most of the recycling and recovery programs already available across the Shire.
The audit, which sampled households across Ingham, Halifax, Lucinda and Forrest Beach, found more than 80 per cent of material placed in yellow-lid recycling bins was recyclable, with cardboard, paper and glass among the most commonly recycled items.
With the recycling contamination rate of just 19.2 per cent, the lowest among councils in the North Queensland Regional Organisation of Councils region.
Mayor Ramon Jayo said the results were encouraging and highlighted the positive efforts already being made by the community.
"More than 80 per cent of what we found in recycling bins was recyclable material, which is a great result and shows residents are making a real effort to recycle correctly," Mayor Jayo said.
"While the audit shows residents are doing a great job with recycling, there are still opportunities to recover more valuable resources.
“Every year, more than $220,000 in container refunds goes unclaimed by residents across the Hinchinbrook Shire, with around $130,000 worth of eligible containers ending up in red-lid bins and going straight to landfill instead of being recycled through Containers for Change.”
Mayor Jayo said one of the easiest ways residents can reduce waste and put money back in their pockets is by taking eligible drink containers to a Containers for Change refund point.
“It's a fantastic program that rewards recycling, keeps valuable resources out of landfill and supports community groups and charities. Every container returned is a win for both the environment and the community,” Mayor Jayo said.
While recycling performance was strong, there is still room for improvement. The audit found nearly 14 per cent of material in red-lid bins could have been recycled instead, including paper, cardboard, plastics and glass.
Food scraps and garden waste accounted for a further 42 per cent of general waste bin contents.
Water and Waste Portfolio Councillor Pat Lynch said some of the biggest opportunities to reduce landfill were sitting in household waste bins.
“Simple actions like recycling cardboard boxes, plastic containers and glass jars, or composting food scraps and garden clippings at home, can make a significant difference,” Cr Lynch said.
The audit also identified common items incorrectly placed in recycling bins, including soft plastics (such as bags and wrappers), textiles, building materials, coffee cups, tissues and electronic waste.
Mayor Jayo said Council offered a range of recycling and recovery options to help residents dispose of items correctly.
“From kerbside recycling and Containers for Change to battery recycling, e-waste disposal and home composting, there are plenty of opportunities to keep valuable resources out of landfill,” Mayor Jayo said.
The audit found e-waste and products containing embedded batteries were still ending up in household bins.
Items with embedded batteries, such as toys, power tools, rechargeable appliances, vapes and mobile phones, should never go in household bins as they can pose a fire risk during collection and processing.
These items can be disposed of at designated battery recycling bins located at Council’s Main Office or Council’s Resource Recovery Centres at Halifax and Warrens Hill.
To help residents recycle with confidence, Council is encouraging the community to download the free Recycle Mate app.
Cr Lynch said Recycle Mate takes the guesswork out of recycling.
“If you're unsure where an item belongs, simply search for it in the app and it will tell you exactly how to dispose of it,” Cr Lynch said.
The audit found the average household generated around 10kg of general waste and 2.5kg of recycling each week.
Residents can download Recycle Mate free from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store and find more information about Council's waste, recycling and resource recovery programs on Council's website.
For those wanting to recycle more and waste less, the audit shows even small changes at home can make a significant difference.
Lulu is one little "keg on short legs!" We're not entirely sure of Lulu's breed mix, but we've been told she may be a Staffordshire Terrier x Dachshund. Whatever her mix, she's a unique girl weighing in at 21 kg and packed full of personality.
Lulu is a friendly, affectionate dog who loves human company and enjoys spending time with her people. She thrives on attention and would make a wonderful companion and loyal best friend. Lulu would be best suited as an only dog, where she can soak up all the love and attention for herself. While untested with cats, based on what we know of her, we would recommend a cat-free home.
Lulu is now searching for her forever family. She deserves a home where she can feel safe, loved, and part of the family for the rest of her days.
Included in adoption fee of $530 DESEXED, MICRO-CHIPPED, up to date VACCINATIONS, FLEA/TICK/INTESTINAL WORM treated & and heartworm treated. Enquire today at angelpawsinc.com.au/pets-for-adoption/dogs/
Sex: Female
Breed: Staffordshire Terrier X Dachshund
Colour: Black n’ Tan
DOB: 07/08/2025
Cat Friendly: Unsure
Dog Friendly: No
Kid Friendly: Yes
Damon and the apprentices of DRM Plumbing FNQ. Photo supplied
From keeping homes and businesses running to helping North Queensland prepare for the unexpected, DRM Plumbing FNQ is delivering essential plumbing and gas services across the region, backed by more than 27 years of industry experience.
Locally operated by Damon and Renee McLeod, DRM Plumbing FNQ provides a comprehensive range of services covering plumbing, drainage, roofing, maintenance and gasfitting, as well as specialised products designed to meet the needs of homes, businesses and industry.
With Damon a fully licensed plumber and QBCC licensee across plumbing, drainage and gasfitting, customers can access experienced, qualified service for projects big and small. From new roofing installations and full roof replacements to repairs and ongoing maintenance, the team can assist with roof screws, gutters, downpipes, flashings and rainwater tanks.
Drainage is another important part of the business, with services covering the pipes, traps, vents and fittings that safely carry wastewater and sewage away from properties to sewer or septic systems. DRM also undertakes septic tank and trench work, along with clearing stubborn blockages caused by tree roots and other obstructions using its jet rodding machine.
The business can also help with hot water unit repairs and replacements, as well as gas plumbing for stoves, ovens and hot water systems.
Beyond its everyday plumbing services, DRM Plumbing FNQ is the distributor for Dam Easy Flood Barriers across North and Far North Queensland. Designed as a practical flood protection solution, the barriers offer property owners another option when preparing for the region’s recurring natural disasters.
DRM is also a SUPAGAS dealer and agent, supplying LPG alongside industrial, medical, specialty and helium gases through one of Australia’s leading gas suppliers.
While the range of services is extensive, Damon and Renee are equally focused on building something that contributes to the region’s future.
DRM Plumbing FNQ proudly supports the next generation of tradespeople, employing both a full-time apprentice and a school-based apprentice. Providing young local people with hands-on experience, guidance and opportunities to develop their skills is an important part of the business, helping build pathways into a rewarding career in the plumbing trade.
That commitment extends beyond the workplace, with DRM regularly supporting local sporting clubs, charity events and youth development programs. Its community involvement reflects a business that values relationships and recognises the importance of giving back to the people and organisations that make the region strong.
For Damon and Renee, running a local business means being there when the community needs them, creating opportunities for young people and supporting the clubs, events and organisations that bring the region together. It is a commitment they continue to put into practice through DRM Plumbing FNQ, every day.
The Mayor’s Christmas Appeal is now underway and, once again, I’m asking our community to get behind local families who may be doing it tough this festive season.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned as Mayor, it’s that our people look after one another.
We all know the past few years haven’t been easy. Many households are still feeling the pressure of rising costs, higher bills and the everyday challenges that come with making ends meet. Yet, despite those pressures, our community continues to find ways to help others.
That’s what makes living in Hinchinbrook special.
Last year, I saw examples of generosity that genuinely humbled me. Students donated bursary prize money they had earned themselves. People quietly added an extra item to their shopping trolley knowing it would help a local family. Businesses, community groups and individuals gave what they could, not because they had plenty, but because they cared.
It's remarkable that when many of us are feeling the pinch ourselves, we still find room in our hearts to help someone else.
The Mayor’s Christmas Appeal is a simple way to do exactly that.
Whether it’s a new toy, a non-perishable food item, a gift voucher or a small cash donation, every contribution helps. What may seem like a small gesture can make a real difference to a local family at Christmas.
For a child, it could mean waking up to find a gift under the tree. For a parent, it could provide a little relief during what can be a stressful time of year. Most importantly, it sends a message that our community cares.
Donations can be placed under the Christmas tree at Council’s Customer Service Centre at 25 Lannercost Street, Ingham, during business hours.
All donations and funds raised will go directly to the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre, whose staff and volunteers work tirelessly throughout the year supporting vulnerable individuals and families across our region. Their work often happens quietly behind the scenes, but its impact is felt every day by those who need it most.
I would like to sincerely thank the centre’s staff and volunteers, as well as everyone who supports the Appeal each year.
The Appeal opens on Monday 2 November 2026 and closes at 5.00pm on Wednesday 9 December 2026, allowing time for donations to be sorted and distributed before Christmas.
As we head towards the festive season, I encourage everyone to consider whether they can spare a little to help someone else. It doesn’t have to be much.
If you’d like to know more, please contact Council’s Customer Service Centre on 4776 4600 or email council@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au for more information.
Ingham Probus Club gathered at the Forrest Beach Hotel to honour the Australia-wide celebration Photo credit: Victoria Velton
By Victoria Velton
Members gathered at the recently reopened Forrest Beach Hotel on Wednesday 28th October for a special anniversary celebration recognising five decades of Probus and the important role the club has played in bringing retired and semi-retired members of the Hinchinbrook community together.
The milestone traces back to 1976, when Australia's first Probus club was established at Hunters Hill in New South Wales. Since then, the organisation has grown into a nationwide network, with clubs providing opportunities for friendship, shared interests, activities and social connection.
The Ingham Probus President welcomed members, highlighting the significance of the occasion for the local club which is recognised as the oldest Probus club in North Queensland.
“This is a very special day. It's the 50th anniversary, but it's also our 45th,” the President said.
“As we're the oldest club in North Queensland, it's a very significant thing.”
The celebration recognised the achievements of the local club and the members who have helped it grow over the years.
Secretary Cheryl Scott spoke about the importance of maintaining friendships and making the effort to stay involved in community activities, particularly during retirement.
“I love my own company, but it doesn't do your mind and body any good. You have to get out and be around people,” she said.
“Sometimes I just think, ‘Oh no, I don't want to do that.’ But I get up because I know I have to, and when I come home, I feel good and I feel it's worth it.”
Ms Scott said the club was focused on providing members with interesting activities and opportunities to spend time together, with their regular Games Days continuing to attract interest.
“We're trying to help the club with interesting things to do,” she said.
The club currently has 60 members, with 42 attending the anniversary celebration and Lesley Scrace and Joy Butler cut the 50th celebration cake. Joy is a life member and Lesley’s father was a founding member of the Ingham Probus club.
Ingham Probus meets on the first Wednesday of each month at the Ingham RSL Club on Hawkins Street, offering members a regular opportunity to catch up, enjoy activities and stay connected.
Chris Gunston is pictured here with the Lecturette Judges – Deb Robinson, Madeleine D’Urso & Johanna Smith. Photo credit: Paul Longbottom
By Paul Longbottom
The longstanding Frank Fraser Lecturette sponsored by the Rotary Club of Hinchinbrook recently brought together six talented primary school students from Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Primary and Ingham State Schools to showcase their public speaking skills and confidence. Three students from each school participated in the competition, presenting their speeches to an audience and a panel of judges.
The judging panel consisted of Ingham State High School Senior Deputy Principal Deb Robinson, Rotary Club of Hinchinbrook President Madeleine D’Urso, and Gilroy Santa Maria Principal Johanna Smith. The judges had the challenging task of assessing the students’ presentations, considering their speaking skills, content, clarity and confidence.
The competition provided an excellent opportunity for students to develop their communication skills and gain valuable experience in public speaking. All six contestants are to be congratulated for their efforts and willingness to participate.
Congratulations to Chris Gunston, who was announced as the winner of the Frank Fraser Lecturette. His achievement is a wonderful recognition of his preparation and presentation skills.
A major Bruce Highway upgrade is underway, with works at Gairloch, Ripple Creek, Ingham-Halifax-Bemerside Road and the Cardwell Range targeting safer travel and improved flood resilience.
The long-awaited improvements aim to reduce the severity of flooding across key sections of highway and help prevent head-on crashes, addressing challenges that can disrupt communities and isolate motorists during the wet season.
Dress to impress at the Country Cups this November. Photo sourced: Herbert Rivr Jockey Club
This NQIB Country Cups Challenge Qualifier Race Day, racegoers are invited to embrace this year’s theme, Country Glamour. The Herbert River Jockey Club event will feature 10 Fashions on the Field categories, catering to everyone from junior entrants to experienced fashionistas.
Categories include Forrest Beach Realty Fashions on the Field, Ingham Mazda Contemporary Lady of the Track, NQ Travel & Cruise Classic Lady of the Track, The Bloom Room Townsville Millinery and Lifelong Supports Best Dressed Man of the Track. Junior and youth categories, alongside Spotter’s Choice, will offer further opportunities to take part.
Three judges will bring their individual fashion and racing experience to the competition.
Amy Byrnes grew up immersed in racing, travelling to meetings with her family and making memories at Cluden Park. Now a racehorse owner herself, she enjoys attending meets across Queensland and internationally. Amy will be looking for confidence, personality and the joy an outfit brings to its wearer, with an appreciation for thoughtful accessories and finishing touches.
Milliner Cat Murphy brings more than a decade of experience creating headwear worn at race meetings across Australia and in London. A passionate racing enthusiast, she values outfits that work cohesively with the theme, combining comfort, confidence and attention to detail. Millinery will naturally be a particular focus, whether a bold statement piece or a classic, understated design.
Marnie Davidson brings a competitive edge, having collected 27 sashes during three years of Fashions on the Field competitions around Australia. Her achievements include finalist positions at Flemington’s Melbourne Cup Derby Day and Turnbull Stakes, as well as qualifying for several major fashion events. A self-confessed lover of coordinated looks, Marnie will be keeping an eye out for the little details that bring an outfit together.
With experienced judges and a Country Glamour theme, racegoers are encouraged to bring their own interpretation of raceday style to the track.
For event information and the full list of categories, visit hrjc.com.au.
Cassowary Coast Regional Council has been recognised for its innovative approach to flood monitoring. Photo supplied
Cassowary Coast Regional Council has been recognised for its innovative approach to flood monitoring, taking home the Local Government Mutual Services (LGMS) Risk Excellence Award at the Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) Conference on Tuesday evening.
The award recognises Council's Flash Flood Sensor Network project, which uses radar technology to monitor water levels at known flood-prone locations across the region.
The information from the flood sensors is integrated into Council’s Disaster Dashboard, giving residents, emergency services and Council access to local conditions as they change.
Cassowary Coast Mayor Teresa Millwood said the recognition highlighted Council's commitment to finding practical ways to improve community safety and disaster preparedness.
"Living on the Cassowary Coast, we know how quickly heavy rainfall can turn into dangerous flooding, particularly in areas where water levels can rise with very little warning," Mayor Millwood said.
"These sensors give us another set of eyes on some of our known flood trouble spots, providing real time information without having to send staff out into potentially dangerous conditions.
"What's particularly important is that this information isn't just for Council. Our residents in flood prone areas can also access this information on the Disaster Dashboard to help them asses their risk, get prepared and make plans in case flooding looks likely."
The network has already supported information sharing with local police and State Emergency Service personnel around Mission Beach, helping emergency services monitor conditions at known flood-prone locations.
Previously, monitoring these locations relied heavily on weather forecasts, community reports and staff inspecting conditions on the ground.
The technology provides another source of information to support earlier identification of rising water levels, planning for potential road closures and coordinating responses during heavy rainfall.
Council is continuing to assess the network through a three-year trial, using observations from residents and emergency services to verify sensor readings and evaluate its effectiveness.
Residents can access flood monitoring information, road updates and other important disaster information on Council’s Disaster Dashboard by ticking *New Water Levels
Visit: www.disaster.cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au
Federal Kennedy MP Bob Katter at Australian Parliament House with his independent crossbench colleague Helen Haines MP, the Member for Indi. Photo supplied
I have spent sleepless nights since last Monday, praying for my long-term and good friend in the Parliament, Helen Haines, along with her family, staff and the first responders to an inexcusable act on a beautiful human being inside and out, who has brought much sparkling joy and enlightenment to the centre of the crossbench.
Whilst we are at opposite ends of the country and representing significantly different electorates, my tremendous respect of Helen’s tenacious advocacy for what she believes in, matches my great appreciation of our genuine friendship.
We don’t represent a political party based in Melbourne or Sydney or Brisbane – we represent the people who sent us to parliament: the people of our electorate.
And there’s no doubt that a terrible blow has been struck against democracy and the people of Australia.
A lady in every sense of the word, Helen is a true moderate of the highest regard across the political spectrum – with the ability to get on with people with very definite views like the teals on one hand, and people like himself on the other.
And I cannot help but think of her smiling face, whenever I leave the Chamber and tap her on the shoulder to ask, “You right if I leave this all under your control, Helen?” and her cheerful reply, “Yes Bob,” both of us laughing. Not to mention her culinary skills in constructing the most delicate of sponge cakes.
Though I react quite frankly with rage and fury at this evil that can have no exculpatory explanations, may we all pray that God’s blessings are with Helen and her family, staff and friends as we all rally around them to provide the support they need during this extremely difficult time.
Hon. Bob Katter MP,
Federal Member for Kennedy
The St Rita’s Gala Ball was held on Friday night. Photos supplied
Current and former students of St Rita’s School Babinda, alongside the wider community from near and far, came together over the weekend to celebrate 100 years of faith, connection and education.
Celebrations kicked off on Friday night with a special Gala Ball, attracting more than 100 guests.
Dressed in formal attire, attendees marked the significant milestone with an evening of music, food and friendship.
Local band Riff Raff kept the dancefloor busy, while a three-course dinner catered by Roscoes was a highlight of the night.
School Principal Michael Rowe said it was an honour to bring the community together to celebrate such a special occasion.
“People from all walks of life attended,” he said.
“A lot of past alumni, and we even had some from our sister school, St Rita’s South Johnstone.
“It was a special time to reflect and celebrate how far we’ve come over the years, and a time to think about the future as well.
“It’s great to see so many people proud of their schooling here.”
The celebrations continued on Saturday, beginning with a 10am Mass, followed by a special roll call and ceremonial cake cutting.
Families then enjoyed an afternoon of festivities, with a jumping castle, face painting and food trucks adding to the fun for younger attendees.
More coverage of the centenary celebrations will appear in next week’s paper.
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