Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
The Cardwell RSL Sub Branch was once again delighted to welcome students and staff from Kennedy State School and Murray River Upper State School for its annual Remembrance Day sausage sizzle. The visit provided an opportunity for students to come together with local veterans and community members, enjoy a meal and learn more about the significance of Remembrance Day. During the gathering, students were given an address explaining the meaning of Remembrance Day, why Australians pause each year on November 11, and the importance of remembering those who have served and sacrificed in conflicts and peacekeeping operations. The occasion offered a valuable opportunity to pass this understanding on to younger generations, ensuring the stories, service and sacrifices of those who came before us are not forgotten. Behind the scenes, the Cardwell RSL volunteers were kept busy, with the ladies in the kitchen and the men on the barbecue working together to provide plenty of food for their visitors. It was a wonderful turnout, and the Sub Branch was pleased to ensure nobody went home hungry. The Cardwell RSL looks forward to welcoming students from Cardwell State School to its main Remembrance Day ceremony at the Cardwell Cenotaph, commencing at 11am on November 11. As the community ready's to gather to pay its respects, remember their sacrifice. Lest We Forget. WHAT: Cardwell Remembrance Day Ceremony WHEN: 11am, Wednesday, 11th November 2026 WHERE: Cardwell Cenotaph, Cardwell Kennedy State School and Murray River Upper State School at the Cardwell RSL. Photos supplied: Murray River Upper State School
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Exploring The Human Side Of Disaster Recovery By Victoria Velton From building stronger support networks to understanding the emotional toll of disaster, women across North Queensland's agricultural sector gathered in Ingham to explore what it really takes to prepare, respond and recover. Disaster preparedness is often measured in practical terms: securing equipment, protecting property, preparing evacuation plans and getting businesses ready for the wet season. But what happens to the people behind those preparations? That was the focus of a Ladies in Agriculture workshop held at the TYTO Wetlands on Monday, 9th November, bringing together women from the sugarcane industry and other agricultural sectors for a day of learning, reflection and shared experiences. Led by Elizabeth McNaughton, founder of disaster recovery and training organisation Disastrous, alongside Canegrowers Industry Recovery and Resilience Officer Sarah Stevens, the workshop looked beyond the immediate response to disaster and explored the often complicated process of rebuilding lives, businesses and communities. Through group discussions, practical activities, card games and thought-provoking exercises, participants were encouraged to consider not only how they prepare for disaster, but how they support themselves and others through the aftermath. One of the strongest themes throughout the day was the importance of relationships. When disaster strikes, communities often come together quickly, with neighbours helping neighbours and people stepping forward wherever they are needed. However, Ms McNaughton explained that those connections are just as important long before an emergency occurs. "It's our connections, it's our relationships that get us through difficult times," she said. Encouraging participants to build what she described as a 'resilient address book', Ms McNaughton highlighted the value of knowing who to turn to, having trusted people around you and maintaining relationships that can provide support when circumstances become difficult. She also spoke about how quickly new relationships can form when people are brought together through shared challenges, and how different perspectives can help communities find their way forward. A significant part of the workshop explored the emotional stages people can experience following a disaster. Ms McNaughton described the initial response as the 'heroic phase', when people rally together, work tirelessly and put enormous energy into protecting others and restoring essential services. It is often a period of extraordinary community spirit, but there is a catch: recovery is rarely a sprint. The initial surge of energy can give way to exhaustion as the reality of a long recovery becomes apparent. As frustration, conflict, blame and disillusionment emerges as people grapple with ongoing uncertainty, delays and the sheer amount of work still ahead. Ms McNaughton encouraged participants to understand that these reactions are not necessarily signs of personal failure or weakness, but can be normal responses to prolonged stress. Recognising these stages can help people better understand their own reactions and show greater patience towards others who may be navigating the same experience differently. She also explored the idea of 'liminal space', describing the uncomfortable period between what life was before a disaster and what comes next. Using the natural environment of the TYTO Wetlands as an example, she explained how wetlands and mangroves exist between land and water, much like people can find themselves in an uncertain period between two stages of life. These transitional periods can be difficult, particularly when the future is unclear, but recognising them can help people give themselves time and space to adjust. Another important discussion focused on how people communicate with someone experiencing hardship. Ms McNaughton challenged the instinct to immediately offer solutions whenever someone shares a problem. While advice is often well-intentioned, it is not always what someone needs. Sometimes, the most valuable thing a person can offer is the opportunity for someone else to feel heard and understood. She encouraged participants to ask a simple but powerful question when offering support: what would you like from me? Whether someone needs to vent, receive advice, work through a plan or simply have someone listen, understanding that need can make a significant difference. The group also explored how this approach can strengthen personal and professional relationships, particularly within close-knit agricultural communities where people often rely on one another. The workshop also turned attention to personal expectations and the pressure people place on themselves. Ms McNaughton discussed how individuals can gradually take on responsibilities and identities that become difficult to put down, such as always being the person who fixes problems, listens to everyone else or keeps everything moving. When disaster adds another layer of responsibility, that existing load can become overwhelming. Participants were encouraged to consider what they were carrying, which expectations they could change and where they could make room for their own wellbeing. Ms McNaughton shared her own experience of recognising the importance of exercise and making it a protected part of her routine. She explained that recognising a need for change is only the beginning. People must also plan for it, protect the time needed to make it happen and allow others to adjust to those new boundaries before the habit becomes part of everyday life. The discussion reinforced that looking after oneself is not separate from looking after a family, business or community. It is part of being able to continue supporting those around you. The day provided women across the agricultural sector with an opportunity to share knowledge that extends beyond individual farms and businesses. While the wet season was an important part of the workshop's focus, the conversations highlighted that resilience is built through everyday relationships, communication, preparation and the willingness to support one another. Reflecting on the connections formed throughout the day, Ms McNaughton said she was encouraged by the wisdom shared between participants. "I've just loved seeing how quickly relationships have formed, and the wisdom that has been shared in the room is really powerful," she said. "And it's a beautiful thing to see the new tools, and I'm thinking about how they can be applied so that, yeah, Ingham and this area can be stronger for whatever comes next." For the women who attended, the workshop provided an opportunity to consider the people, relationships and community connections that can make all the difference when the unexpected happens.
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By Dr Bianka Vidonja Balanzategui Before Council brought Ingham a clean, healthy water supply in the late 1930s, households had their own water tanks and private wells, while there was also a town well. With no flushing indoor toilets, human waste leak from cesspits contaminated the wells causing sickness. The introduction of a nightsoil service lessened contamination but this was not a long-term solution. At the start of the twentieth century, as the town grew, so did the chance of contaminating the town well. Only improved sanitary conditions would bring under control sicknesses such as typhoid and hookworm that persisted in the district. So, the Health Department inspector recommended that the water supply be drawn from the Herbert River. The findings of a Council commissioned report recommended a water tower costing £8,957, to supply 45 000 gallons, sufficient for around 1 500 people. During the 1915 drought the water level in the town well dropped so low that the pump was unable to work, and water was carted from the river. Considerable sickness due to contaminated water resulted. Despite this the Council still did not act. Twenty years later during the Great Depression the town water problems were finally solved. Council applied for a loan of £36,750 to build a water tower. In a groundbreaking offer that was the first grant of its kind for a civic water supply the Council paid only a third of the cost while the other two-thirds were contributed equally by the State and Federal governments. Work began in May 1937 using unemployed day labour to lay pipes. A concrete well at the intake on the Herbert River and a concrete tower 120 feet high in the centre of Ingham were constructed. Mains between those points and reticulation pipes throughout the supply area were laid with consumer connections the householders' responsibility. In July 1938 water began to be supplied with the aid of pressure valves until the tower was ready. The new supply was available for limited hours, becoming more generous as consumer numbers increased. The scheme was finally completed in March 1939 with nearly 500 consumers already connected and extensions planned. Teething problems included leaking experimental fibrolite pipes, and excessive consumption because though the river supply was boundless, delivery was restricted by the capacity of the powerhouse plant. Water restrictions were imposed during periods of heavy consumption, particularly during the war when electricity generation was reduced. Excessive domestic use was curbed by house-to-house inspections looking for leaking taps, educating consumers and even prosecuting where flagrant waste occurred. The water quality was generally good, cleaned by natural filtration through sandbanks in the riverbed. However, discoloration occurred when floodwater entered the pump well or if there were dredging operations in the upper Herbert. Rusting pipes were caused by significant numbers of bacteria releasing large amounts of carbon dioxide. A chlorinator was installed to treat the water largely solved the problem. Within the year there were requests for extensions from Trebonne, Halifax and Victoria Mill but the looming war put a hold on such plans. The 120-foot-high concrete tower was now the highest structure on the skyline and because of concern in World War 2 that it would be clearly visible to enemy planes some councillors argued that the tower should be camouflaged. In the end, shortages of both labour and paint put paid to the idea. This material was largely drawn from works written on the Hinchinbrook Shire by Dr Janice Wegner and Bianka Vidonja Balanzategui. Caption: Photo source: State Library of Queensland. 2211512. Large Water Tower, Ingham Queensland, 1953
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St Peter’s Catholic School in Halifax will transition towards closure at the end of the 2027 school year, following a decision by Townsville Catholic Education (TCE), formally approved by Bishop Tim Harris. The decision follows an extensive review of regional demographic forecasts, financial viability and declining student enrolments. It was also reviewed and endorsed by the Diocesan Educational Council and Diocesan Finance Council. The school will continue operating throughout the 2027 school year before its closure, a year which also marks its centenary. The school will use the coming year to celebrate its 100-year legacy, recognising the generations of students, staff and families who have contributed to its history and the important role it has played in the Halifax and Hinchinbrook communities. The celebrations will provide an opportunity to reflect on the school's history, acknowledge its achievements and honour the lasting legacy of Catholic education in the region before the school officially closes. Townsville Catholic Education has confirmed current students will be guaranteed ongoing enrolment within the Catholic Diocese, with primary pathways available at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School and secondary pathways at Gilroy Santa Maria College.
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North Queensland Parliamentarians Bob Katter and Shane Knuth. Photo supplied
This Thursday's public meeting in Ingham for North Queensland Parliamentarians Bob Katter and Shane Knuth to listen to our community, will get underway around 6pm in the Lees Hotel beer garden on 12th November.
All topics are on the table - including insurance affordability, disaster preparedness, cyclone recovery, and the future of our sugar industry - so come along and have your say, to give us your riding instructions to take to Parliament.
With consultation on the Sugar Code of Conduct now closed, a report is expected to be presented to Parliament in 2027. Any legislation that weakens the Code or strips growers of their right to independent arbitration would spell disaster for our cane industry.
Our growers deserve a fair go, fair prices, and the right to have disputes independently arbitrated.
Meanwhile, with cyclone season at our doorstep and the insurance affordability and underinsurance crisis continuing to undermine the resilience of North Queensland households, businesses and communities, we want to hear directly from the people who live and work through this.
Thousands of kilometres from southern capitals, our region faces some of Australia’s highest insurance premiums.
Rising policy premiums, excesses and various exclusions leave many homeowners dangerously underinsured, with coverage often falling short of the actual cost of rebuilding exacerbated by remoteness, labour shortages, freight costs and cyclone-resilient building standards.
This growing protection gap leaves families, businesses and ultimately taxpayers carrying the burden when disaster strikes.
And whilst we acknowledge the North's local leaders for recently forcing the Federal Government’s backdown on disaster funding reforms, alongside those in Ingham and Townsville who fought like tigers to secure the cyclone reinsurance pool for North Queenslanders and bring a number of leading insurers to the table – there remains much work to do.
The reinsurance pool should cover all events associated with tropical cyclone systems - including flooding; stronger emergency services and essential infrastructure preparedness; improved support from major businesses and banks following disasters; and better coordinated, adequately funded disaster recovery assistance.
And so we will continue to make the strongest representations at the highest possible levels of government, working alongside our local councils to ensure North Queensland's vulnerabilities are properly recognised.
The CommBank Ingham team brought the community together over homemade treats and raised funds for Can4Cancer during a bake sale on Monday 9th November.
The branch was filled with an assortment of sweet treats, giving locals the chance to pick up something delicious for morning tea while supporting a cause close to many hearts.
Supporting Australian charity, Tour de Cure, Can4Cancer has been active since 2014. Over that time, the CommBank initiative has raised $21.7 million, funded 212 cancer research, support or prevention projects and contributed to 50 world-class research breakthroughs impacting all cancer types.
The bake sale was a sweet way for the CommBank team to show its support, while giving locals an opportunity to contribute through a simple act of generosity when they popped into the bank.
“hardworking, caring young girl with a beautiful free spirit”. Photo source: GoFundMe
A young local woman who was two weeks away from graduating high school has been diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma at the age of 17.
Known as a “hardworking, caring young girl with a beautiful free spirit”, Mia works regular shifts at The Pocket and was set to graduate high school this year.
She is now embarking on at least six months of chemotherapy in Cairns and having to travel from Innisfail treatment.
A GoFundMe has been set up for Mia and her family, aiming to assist with travel costs, living expenses, time away from work and additional medical, recovery-related costs.
Mia is known for her contribution to local charities, helping at fundraising events such as Pink Ribbon Breast Cancer Day and the Wheelbarrow Race.
She is “always willing to get involved and bring a smile to those around her,” said her GoFundMe page.
“Now, it's our turn to be there for her”
Those close to her are asking for anything that can help make Mia more comfortable, supported and cared for throughout her treatment and recovery.
“Mia has a long road ahead, and we want her and her family to be able to focus on what matters most: getting Mia through treatment and back to enjoying being a young girl,” they shared.
“Our Cassowary Coast community has always shown incredible generosity and heart.
“Let's rally around Mia and her family and show them just how much support is behind them.
“Every little bit helps. Whether it's a donation, big or small, a prayer, or simply sharing this page, every gesture of kindness means so much.
The GoFundMe page has already raised over $25K at the time of print, with a goal of $30K.
Visit: https://www.gofundme.com/f/lets-get-behind-mia if you are able to help
The Forensic Crash Unit is investigating a fatal traffic crash on the Cassowary Coast, 8 November.
Shortly before 2.30pm, emergency services were called to a report of a collision between a truck and a car on the Bruce Highway at Damper Creek.
The sole occupant of a red Toyota Corolla, a 64-year-old Cardwell man, was declared deceased at the scene.
The driver of the truck was not physically injured.
Investigations into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.
Anyone who may have seen the vehicles prior to the crash, witnessed the incident or may have relevant vision are asked to come forward.
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting.
Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.
The garage sale trail invites locals to buy and sell unwanted treasures. Photo source: Shutterstock
Australia's biggest second-hand treasure hunt will have its last hurrah in Cassowary Coast this November, with the Garage Sale Trail inviting locals to hold concurrent yard sales across the community on the 14th-15th November.
Homes, unit blocks, schools, community groups, charities and pubs are invited to take part, keeping secondhand treasures out of landfill whilst connecting the community.
The iniative also aims to help locals make some extra cash by selling some unwanted items. The average amount made from a household is sale around $761 whilst schools and groups make around $1,325.
To get involved, search for Garage Sale Trail in Cassowary Coast and register for free.
When registering through the website you will receive a free listing on the national map which lets people know where your garage sale is, as well as how-to guides, sale tips, promotional materials and promotional support from Garage Sale Trail and your local council.
The scheme began as a community event in 2010, started on a whim by Sydney mates Darryl Nichols and Andrew Valder. Following their efforts, 130 garage sales popping up across Waverley Council.
16 years later the Garage Sale Trail has grown; the initiative is now supported by over 120 local councils and have generated over $52 million for charities, communities and households across Australia.
Cassowary Coast will be seeing some new developments. Photo Credit: Cassowary Coast Regional Council
New opportunities for investment, housing and business growth are set to increase across the Cassowary Coast, with two developments approved in Mission Beach and an infrastructure charges incentive supporting a residential project in Innisfail.
Cassowary Coast Mayor Teresa Millwood said the decisions fit in with the Council’s vision to create a more livable tropical community while supporting a strong and sustainable local economy.
"We want the Cassowary Coast to be a great place to live, do business and invest, while giving visitors more ways to stay and experience everything our beautiful region has to offer," Mayor Millwood said.
"These developments are encouraging examples of investment in our region, supporting housing choice, visitor accommodation and services for our growing communities."
The approved developments include a South Mission Beach tourist campground, a Mission Beach car wash and storage facility, and a housing development at Goondi Bend.
The South Mission Beach tourist campground, located at 49 Jackey Jackey Street, will accommodate 74 people and include a campground kitchen, basic amenities, camper trailers and tents.
The Mission Beach car wash and storage facility, located at Shepherd Close, will feature automatic and self-service car washing, a dog wash, vacuum bays and 126 storage spaces, including boat and caravan storage.
For the Goondi Bend housing development, the Council has endorsed a 75 per cent reduction in infrastructure charges, worth approximately $44,000, for an approved residential project at 12 Cedar Street.
The reduction in Infrastructure charges policy is part of the Council's development incentives. Hoping to create economic activity across the region, housing investment, and eligible developments.
Mayor Millwood said Council aimed to encourage investment while ensuring regional growth remained aligned with the area's environmental and community values.
"Our infrastructure charges incentives are one practical way we're helping reduce barriers to development and encourage investment in our region.
"As a certified ECO Destination, we also recognise the importance of protecting the natural environment that attracts visitors and makes our region such a special place to live.
"It's about supporting the right development, creating opportunities for local businesses and families, and ensuring the Cassowary Coast continues to grow in a way that benefits our communities."
Wreaths are given as a sign of respect and honor. Photo Credit: Cassowary Coast Regional Council
Next week, communities across the region will come together to mark Remembrance Day, a special day dedicated to honouring the courage, service and sacrifice of the men and women who have served our country.
At 11am on November 11th, Australians will pause to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice, and reflect on the lasting impact of their service.
If you’re planning to attend a local commemoration, here’s your guide to where and when Remembrance Day ceremonies will be held across the Cassowary Coast.
Lest We Forget.
Innisfail RSL
Dawn Service: 5:25am at Cenotaph, Jack Fossey Park
Morning Service: 9:30am at Cenotaph, Jack Fossey Park
El Arish
Dawn Service:
4:00am: Assemble at El Arish RSL Memorial Hall
4:20am: Parade moves off to El Arish Cenotaph
Traditional ANZAC Breakfast: 6:30am at El Arish History Station (open to the public)
Tully RSL
Dawn Service: 5:30am (assemble at Tully Leagues Club)
Morning Service:
9:40am: Assemble at the corner of Still Street & Butler Street
10:15am: Commemorative Ceremony at Cenotaph (Mitchell Park)
Mission Beach
Locations: Dawn Service: 5:30am at ANZAC Memorial, Reid Road (near the splash pad)
Gunfire Breakfast: To follow (gold coin donation)
Cardwell RSL
Dawn Service: 5:45am at Cardwell Cenotaph
Gunfire Breakfast: To follow
Morning Service: 10:45am at Cardwell Cenotaph
Kurrimine Beach
Dawn Service: 6:00am at Kurrimine Beach
Breakfast to follow for attendees
Morning Service: 9:45 am at Foster Street for a march with local schools
Adrien holds a long service medal. Photo Credit: Tully Beach Mission LAC
Local paramedic Adrien House has just received a long service medal, celebrating 30 years of dedication and compassion in the Queensland Ambulance Service.
Adrien began his career training and working in Cairns before finding his long-term home in Mission Beach.
Balancing a personal life and work life is a hard task for many front-line workers, but Adrien shared that it can be more manageable in a rural community.
“I came from Cairns to Mission Beach, thinking it’d only be a brief stint at a smaller location,” Adrien said.
“But I soon realised that it's a great work-life balance, a really nice community and a good mixture of workload.”
Since joining the Mission Beach station at 33, Adrien has built lasting connections with members of the community, often meeting them at their most vulnerable. While these relationships make the role deeply rewarding, it can also be a challenge.
“Working in a small community is both a positive and negative. You get to have connections with people, and then you're seeing those same sort of people go through medical emergencies and the worst time of their lives”
For Adrien, the rewards of rural paramedicine extend far beyond the flashing lights, with the quieter acts of care holding just as much significance as the high-pressure emergencies.
“Some of the work might be seen as not the sort of flashy lights and sirens stuff that you see on TV. Often, it can be just, you know, taking an elderly person for a specialist appointment, but I see both things as equally important.”
With over three decades in the field, Adrien has many tips to share with anyone pursuing a career in paramedicine. For example, looking after yourself so that you can look after others; staying fit and prioritising your well-being so you can de-stress from front-line service.
“I can get out of paramedic mode into father-partner mode and sort of put work behind me for the week.” Adrien shared.
“It's a structured thing I do after each rotation, and for me, I kind of see it as a bit of a reset, going into days off and onto the other side of me, which isn't a paramedic.”
It seems that being in a frontline service runs in Adrien's blood. The son of a firefighter and a nurse, he joked that he had been a paramedic since the age of eight, having grown up immersed in the everyday qualities of care and sympathy.
“I liked what they were doing for a living, and I think being a paramedic is kinda like somewhere in the middle of those two professions,” Adrien said.
P1. Act of Kindness from Kerrie and Mike. Photo Credit: Tully Mission Beach LAC
More than 100 little teddies are set to bring big much needed comfort to young patients, thanks to a thoughtful donation from two local residents.
Kerrie and Mike donated over 100 beanie babies to Tully Mission Beach Local Ambulance Committee, hoping that the soft toys will provide a great source of comfort for younger patients in what can be stressful, scary situations.
A Facebook post about the donation drew praise and gratitude.
“Thank you! My son had to ride in your ambulance a few times, and he loved the toys he got. It was a big distraction to what was happening. You truly do make a difference. Thank you!” shared one local.
“This donation will bring so much comfort, smiles and a little bit of happiness and i know that is both of your main goals. It’s people like you both who remind us how much kindness and compassion can make a difference. Such a thoughtful donation and something truly special,” shared another.
The donation is an example of how even the simplest items can make a big difference when given a new home, with the small toys becoming much-needed sources of comfort for little ones in need.
Sarina Silvestro (left), who has worked at Igguldens for more than 30 years, with owners Robyn and Colin Batts. Photo credit: Helen Cook
Step inside Igguldens on Butler Street in Tully and you'll discover something increasingly rare – a colourful treasure trove of clothing, footwear and everyday essentials, where good old-fashioned personal service is still very much alive.
And behind this much-loved family business are some remarkably familiar faces, including Sarina Silvestro, who has worked at Igguldens for more than 30 years, and Cheryl Jenkins, whose dedication to the store spans more than four decades.
Their extraordinary loyalty speaks volumes about a business where staff know their customers, understand their products and take pride in helping people find exactly what they need.
The story began in 1950 when George Iggulden opened his shop in Tully. Three years later, he married Amy Elston, who worked alongside him until the couple retired in 1995.
Their daughter Robyn and her husband Colin Batts, both teachers at the time, took over the business, continuing a family tradition that has now spanned more than three-quarters of a century.
For Colin, who spent 25 years teaching across Queensland, taking over the family business was quite a career change. But more than 30 years later, he still takes pride in providing the personal service that has become Igguldens' trademark.
“I think what sets us apart is our hands-on approach, honesty, good value for money and knowledge of the products we sell,” Colin said.
From colourful tropical shirts, comfortable bamboo and cotton clothing and sleepwear to workwear, footwear, socks and underwear, Igguldens offers an impressive variety under one roof.
And for the younger generation, there's also the Igguldens children's shop IGGsToo at Banyan Plaza, extending the family's retail presence in Tully.
While Colin and Robyn acknowledge the challenges facing independent retailers, they remain grateful for the dedicated staff and generations of customers who have supported their business.
After 76 years, it's not just what's on the shelves that makes Igguldens special – it's the people behind the counter.
Christine and Keith Blair with daughter Allie (centre) at Tropical Hibiscus Caravan Park, where their latest venture, Coffee Time, is bringing locals and tourists together. Photo credit: Helen Cook
When Christine and Keith Blair swapped corporate life for life on the road, little did they imagine that three years travelling around Australia would lead them to running their own caravan park on the Cassowary Coast – and opening a cafe.
Today, together with their daughter Allie, the couple are bringing fresh energy to Tropical Hibiscus Caravan Park in Wongaling Beach, creating a welcoming place for visitors and locals alike.
French-born Christine spent 25 years working in telecommunications, while her English husband hails from Yorkshire. After years of demanding corporate life, they decided it was time for a change.
Having stayed in countless caravan parks during their travels, they reckoned they knew what guests wanted.
"We thought, how hard could it be?" Christine laughed. "That's been our motto all the way along."
They fell in love with Tropical Hibiscus almost immediately, attracted by its relaxed atmosphere, convenient location and potential. Taking over in July 2025, they set about improving the park, introducing online bookings and building on its established reputation.
With 14 cabins and camping facilities, the small, friendly park attracts everyone from backpackers and travelling families to grey nomads, including loyal visitors who have been returning for 15 years. But the family's latest venture is proving just as popular.
When they realised an unused space at the front of the property could become a cafe, they invited 25-year-old daughter Allie to join them.
With university and backpacking overseas behind her and years of hospitality experience, Allie embraced the opportunity, establishing Coffee Time, which is fast becoming a favourite local meeting place.
With its rustic, homemade cooking, hearty pies, freshly baked quiches and good coffee, the cafe offers the sort of simple, comforting food that makes you want to linger a little longer – either outdoors on the verandah, or in the comfortable air-conditioning.
It's also becoming a creative community space, showcasing local artists and artisans, with plans for events including the upcoming Art After Dark twilight market.
For Allie, who moved from Brisbane six months ago, the warm welcome from the Mission Beach community has been one of the unexpected pleasures of her new life.
"Because we live on site, this is an extension of our home, and that's something that I want to extend to people visiting us in the cafe," she said.
For the Blair family, Tropical Hibiscus and Coffee Time are more than a business – they're home. And whether you're staying for a week, dropping in for coffee or catching up with friends, there's always a smile and a warm welcome waiting.
Local businesses were celebrated for their achievements at the Innisfail & District Chamber of Commerce annual Business of the Year Awards, held late last month.
A Chamber representative said the awards provided a wonderful opportunity to recognise and celebrate the local business community.
“To all of the nominees and finalists – you don’t just meet community standards, you raise the bar.”
This year’s winners included StickIt Vinyl for Homebased Business, Clarity At Work for New Business Of The Year, The Boob Tour for Non-Profit Of The Year and Discovery Wildlife Park for Tourism & Visitor Business Of The Year.
Springbrook Pharmacy took out Customer Service and Red Deer County Business Of The Year, while Hannah Klaus was named Employee Of The Year and House Of Her received both Community Impact and Innisfail Business Of The Year.
Ma & Pa’s Bakery was named Penhold Business Of The Year, while Bowden Hi-way Golf Course took home Bowden Business Of The Year.
Celebrating the naming of the John Büsst Reefs at the weekend. Photo: Reef Ecologic
More than half a century after he helped save the Great Barrier Reef from mining and oil drilling, pioneering conservationist John Büsst has been honoured with two reefs off Mission Beach named in his memory.
The John Büsst Reefs, located east of Ellison Reef off Bingil Bay, recognise the remarkable contribution of the artist, architect and environmental campaigner whose determination helped change the course of Australia's conservation history.
The naming was celebrated over the weekend with two events organised by Reef Ecologic, bringing together scientists, conservationists and community members to reflect on Büsst's legacy and the continuing importance of protecting the Reef.
The first, a commemorative gathering on Friday 6 November at Ninney Rise, Büsst's former home at Bingil Bay. The second event took the celebrations offshore, with a citizen science snorkelling and diving expedition to the newly named reefs and nearby Ellison Reef – the very place where Büsst's historic campaign began.
Reef Ecologic CEO and marine scientist Dr Adam Smith, who nominated the reefs for naming, described the recognition as a wonderful full-circle moment.
"This is more than a name on a chart. It recognises a man whose voice helped bring the plight of the Great Barrier Reef to national attention, and the coastline he loved and worked to protect," Dr Smith said.
Büsst, sometimes referred to as the 'Bastard of Bingil Bay' by his opponents, was instrumental in opposing limestone mining and oil exploration during the late 1960s and early 1970s. In 1967, he spearheaded a campaign against plans to mine Ellison Reef for agricultural limestone, rallying scientists, conservationists and community volunteers. Working alongside prominent figures including poet Judith Wright and ecologists Len Webb and Geoff Tracey, he helped build a national movement to protect the Reef.
The Save the Reef campaign generated more than 4,000 letters sent around the world, helping create the momentum that eventually led to the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Act in 1975. Sadly, Büsst never witnessed that achievement. He died in April 1971 while preparing evidence for the Royal Commission investigating proposed petroleum drilling on the Reef.
For the Mission Beach community, the John Büsst Reefs are more than names on a nautical chart. They are a lasting tribute to a local conservation pioneer whose courage and persistence helped protect one of the world's greatest natural wonders for future generations.
Established at Mourilyan in 1977, the Australian Sugar Industry Museum had its origins in the former Sugarama Theatre, built by the Micale family in the 1950s. Almost 50 years later, the collection is preparing for a new home in Tully, as part of a broader celebration of the region's rich agricultural history
It's the news Tully has been waiting for – the Australian Sugar Industry Museum committee has voted to bring its historic collection to Tully, choosing the town over a competing proposal from Gordonvale.
The decision, made at a committee meeting on Tuesday night, is a significant victory for the local group working to establish the Wet Tropics Agricultural Heritage Centre at the former Tully Visitor Information Centre.
Dr Rob Magarey, who has been closely involved in developing the proposal alongside William Moran and other local supporters, welcomed the decision as an exciting step forward for the town.
"All the museum exhibits are coming to Tully and all the finance seems to be coming to Tully as well," Rob said.
While the financial arrangements are yet to be formally documented or confirmed, the decision by the committee, chaired by Sam Spina, provides the green light for the Tully group to begin putting its plans into action.
The announcement follows the recent decision by Cassowary Coast Regional Council to approve a Facility Use Agreement for the former Visitor Information Centre on the Bruce Highway at Tully, subject to conditions that included the outcome of the museum committee's deliberations.
Rob confirmed that Council had already been in contact to progress arrangements for the lease, including ensuring the building is in good condition before it is handed over.
But the vision for the new centre extends well beyond sugar.
The Wet Tropics Agricultural Heritage Centre aims to celebrate the remarkable agricultural history of the Tully district and surrounding region – from the pioneering timber cutters and cattle graziers to the development of the sugar and banana industries that have become synonymous with Far North Queensland.
The proposal brings together the stories of these industries, the families who established them, and the machinery, innovations and hard work that transformed the district.
The former Australian Sugar Heritage Centre collection, previously housed at Mourilyan before the devastating floods associated with Cyclone Jasper in December 2023, includes historic locomotives, tractors, harvesters, photographs, documents and other artefacts.
As William Moran explained when the proposal was first announced, "We want to bring them all together in a museum right here on the highway."
The immediate priority will be to reopen the existing building as a Visitor Information Centre, incorporating a selection of heritage exhibits and potentially providing opportunities to book local attractions and Tully Sugar mill tours.
A business plan has already been prepared, and the local committee is expected to meet shortly to consider the next steps.
However, Rob emphasised that while the decision is cause for celebration, there is still considerable work ahead.
The longer-term vision includes purpose-built exhibition sheds to accommodate larger machinery and collections, including a dedicated display celebrating the banana industry. These plans remain subject to development approvals, including from State Government authorities.
The group also intends to continue discussions with Dr Valerie Keenan and supporters of the proposed Tully Arts and Cultural Precinct about opportunities for collaboration.
And while there are still plans to finalise, approvals to secure and plenty of hard work ahead, one thing is certain – Tully has taken a significant step towards preserving and celebrating its rich agricultural history, ensuring the stories of the industries and people who shaped the district are shared with generations to come.
While waiting at the pharmacy this week, I spotted a gentleman engrossed in the Cassowary Coast LIFE crossword. A quick chat revealed he was Max Riipinen, born in Tully in 1944 to Finnish immigrant parents – and a former rugby league player with an impressive sporting history.
Max played for the Tully Tigers in the 1960s, representing Far North Queensland in 1966 and 1967 before heading to Sydney in 1968, where he played for the legendary St George Dragons. He later played for Brisbane Norths. More than half a century later, Max remainsconnected to his hometown and its proud rugby league heritage, with the Tully Tigers celebrating their centenary this year.
And at 82, he's still tackling challenges – although these days it's the LIFE crossword rather than opposition forwards!
Thanks for the chat, Max. A lovely reminder of the fascinating stories behind our readers.
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