More than a thousand residents of the Cassowary Coast and surrounding regions have rallied behind Trudy Tschui’s push to deliver a safer and more resilient crossing at Banyan Creek, locally known as Whitings Crossing on Tully–Mission Beach Road.

With support from Member for Parliament for the Hinchinbrook electorate, Shane Knuth, Ms Tschui launched a petition to present the community’s concerns directly to the State Government, highlighting safety risks associated with the bridge.

“I know as a long-time resident that many people feel unsafe approaching and driving on the bridge, so let them pass that message on,” she said.

“I hope the government will listen to the people.”

Ms Tschui said the petition argues that the weight and size of modern vehicles exceed the outdated building standards of the bridge, adding the structure carries high traffic volumes each day and sits too low in a flood-prone area.

“On a good day, it’s a dangerous bridge,” she said.

“People slow as they approach the bridge if there’s oncoming traffic, thus causing cars behind to brake suddenly – this was my recent experience – but I have been told of wing mirrors being broken, and people holding their breath as they drive across it.”

Whitings Crossing provides a key link between the Bruce Highway, Tully and Mission Beach, with motorists, school and commercial buses, trucks and caravans using the bridge daily.

“I believe the community would like to see the bridge raised to restrict flooding and the bridge itself widened,” Ms Tschui said.

“Mission Beach is a popular caravan destination, and we need our visitors to feel safe and welcome as they drive to our town.”

Additional information and the E-Petition can be accessed via https://www.parliament.qld.gov.au/Work-of-the-Assembly/Petitions/Petition-Details/4393-26  until the petition closes on 23 March 2026.

CAPTION: The E-Petition argues the existing crossing at Banyan Creek is aging, narrow, flood prone and no longer fit for purpose given the current traffic volumes and vehicle types. Photo source: Facebook

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BreastScreen Queensland is set to visit Mission Beach from 24 March to 22 April, offering free breast screening for local women aged 40 and over.

The mobile screening service will be located at the Community Health Centre, 26 Wongaling Beach Road, making it easier for women in the region to access potentially life-saving early detection services. No doctor’s referral is required.

Cassowary Coast Regional Council Mayor Teresa Millwood, a breast cancer survivor herself, is encouraging eligible residents to prioritise screening.

“As a breast cancer survivor, I would encourage every person who is eligible for breast screening to take the opportunity to do it. The earlier the detection the better the outcome,” she said.

“Breast cancer is not only a woman’s disease as many men are also diagnosed with breast cancer. Do yourself a favour and get a breast screen.”

While women aged 40 and over are eligible for a free screening, those aged 50 to 74 are especially encouraged to attend, as breast screening is most effective in this age group. BreastScreen Queensland recommends women aged 50–74 have a free breast screen every two years.

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australian women, and the risk increases significantly after the age of 50. Importantly, nine out of 10 women diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history of the disease.

Screening can detect breast cancer early — often before it can be seen or felt — which means more treatment options and better health outcomes. For most women, results show no signs of cancer, providing reassurance and peace of mind.

To book an appointment or learn more, visit breastscreen.qld.gov.au or call 13 20 50.

CAPTION: The BreastScreen Queensland mobile screening service will be at the Community Health Centre from 24 March to 22 April. Photo supplied

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The QCWA are excited to share that the HomePlate Project National Survey has launched. The HomePlate Project is a national initiative led by the Maggie Beer Foundation, exploring how older people experience food, cooking and eating while living at home. By listening directly the project aims to support joy, connection and wellbeing around food as we age.

As part of this work, we are inviting older people to take part in a short national survey that explores; what’s working well with food and eating at home, what can be challenging, and what could make things better in the future.

Responses are being sought from people aged 65 and over who are living at home, across metropolitan, regional and rural Australia. The survey takes around 10 minutes to complete and is confidential, focusing on lived experience and practical ideas.

You can access the survey via the website until the 29th of March: maggiebeerfoundation.org.au/homeplateproject/

Share your experiences with food at home with this national project survey. Photo credit: QCWA

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A small library with a big heart is helping bring readers together in the Hinchinbrook community.

The Hinchinbrook Visitor Information Centre in Ingham has joined the growing network of community book exchanges through Street Library Australia, installing a Little Free Library where locals and visitors can swap and share books.

More than just a tourist stop, the centre has long served as a meeting point for travellers and residents wanting to learn more about the region. The addition of the street library has added another welcoming touch.

Kellie from Hinchinbrook Shire Council said the idea behind the initiative was to encourage connection through reading.

"We believe that sharing knowledge, encouraging curiosity, and creating moments of connection are at the heart of what a community space should offer. What has surprised and delighted us most is just how popular the library has become," she said.

"Locals regularly stop by to swap books, and tourists often tell us it’s an unexpected highlight of their visit. It has become a small but meaningful meeting point where stories are exchanged, conversations begin, and people feel welcomed into the Hinchinbrook community."

Street libraries allow people to take a book, leave a book and share the joy of reading with the wider community. Other Street Libraries in the area include Lilly Pilly Library at 1 Hawkins Street, Ingham and Moretti Street Booklovers at 17 Moretti Street, Ingham.

More information on the initiative can be found online at streetlibrary.org.au.

CAPTION:

1. The Hinchinbrook Visitor Information Centre is now part of the Street Library Australia initiative. Photo source: Street Library Australia
2. Moretti Street Booklovers is home to a large variety of genres available including childrens books. Photo source: Street Library Australia

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Sunday 8 March started off grey skies, and inclement weather. Not to be daunted, the Forrest Beach QCWA ladies were busy bringing the QCWA Hall to life ready for the serving of a sumptuous Devonshire Tea - a classic - tea, scones, jam and cream. And it was not long before guests arrived - in fact over 35 people signed in for the Sunday treat.

International Women's Day (March 8) is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women.  The day has been around for over 100 years, as have many of the issues still impacting women's advancement. Forrest Beach QCWA members marked International Women's Day by celebrating women's achievements, supporting women-focused charities like the Country Women’s Association, and giving back to the community in appreciation for its support in 2025.

The morning was certainly busy, with plates of scones rapidly disappearing as guests enjoyed the ambience. Some took the opportunity for a memorable photo or to browse through the library or to catch up on the display of the services FBQCWA offers to the community. Sincere gratitude is felt for the many donations made by satisfied customers as they left the Hall comfortably satiated.

Contributed with thanks by Beverley Hulme, branch treasurer of the QCWA Forrest Beach.

Caption: Sunday 8 March, Forrest Beach Branch QCWA held a Devonshire Tea morning for International Women’s Day. Photos supplied

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On 8 March, The Our Lady of Lourdes school community recently celebrated its first Family Mass of the year with the St Patrick’s Parish community. The Mass provided an opportunity for students, staff and families to come together, connect with the parish and celebrate their faith.

Fr John presided over the Mass, with many members of the school community attending the first school-led parish Mass for the year.

Students will also take part in Harmony Day celebrations on Friday 20 March. The day recognises and celebrates Australia’s rich cultural diversity and promotes the message that everyone belongs.

Students are invited to attend school dressed in their traditional cultural dress or wearing an orange T-shirt symbolising respect, diversity and inclusion.

The day will provide an opportunity for the school to celebrate the many cultures that make up the Our Lady of Lourdes community.

Caption Group: Our Lady Of Lourdes First Family Mass of 2026. Photo credit: Our Lady Of Lourdes

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Becoming the little fish in a big pond isn’t something to be feared at Gilroy Santa Maria College.

“Starting Year 7 is a big moment. It’s the point where students move from being the oldest in primary school to the newest members of a much bigger community. That brings a lot of new opportunities,” says Year 7 Pastoral Leader, Paula Di Bartolo.

“Year 7 at GSMC is about new beginnings, new friendships, and discovering who you can become beyond the classroom.”

From Term 2, Year 6 students from across the district are invited to experience life as a GSMC student.

“Going into Year 7 isn't as scary as people think. It's actually quite fun. We don't have the same teacher for every lesson and we get to move classrooms during the day,” said Phoebe, a Year 7 student.

“Year 6 students should come here because we have really good learning spaces, the teachers are friendly and helpful. We have lots of opportunities to get help with our subjects both at lunchtime and at after school tutoring,” said Kyla G, a Year 7 student.

The GSMC Year 7 Expo happening on May 15 will be the first peek behind the secondary school curtain for current Year 6 students.

This opportunity will show students the subjects, facilities, staff, and potential classmates that will surround them in 2027.

“There’s lots of different opportunities like the dodgeball competition, football, and futsal. The classrooms are big, we have great facilities,” said Logan, a Year 7 student.

Families interested in the Year 7 Expo and Transition Days are encouraged to register their student on the GSMC website.

caption: Year 6 students at GSMC transition days in 2025. photo supplied

caption: Year 6 students with seniors at the year 7 expo in 2025. photo supplied

caption: Year 7 camp game night on magnetic island. Photo supplied

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Year 10 students at Ingham State High School recently had the opportunity to explore a wide range of career pathways during the school’s annual Speed Careers event.

Fourteen local industry representatives generously gave their time to speak with students in a series of fast-paced six-minute sessions. The “speed careers” format allowed students to meet with several professionals in a short amount of time, asking questions about different jobs, training requirements and career journeys.

Business owners, tradespeople and professionals shared valuable insights into their industries and spoke openly about the pathways that led them to their current roles. For many students, the experience opened their eyes to opportunities they had not previously considered and reinforced the message that there are many different paths to success.

Ingham State High School extends its sincere thanks to the local community members who generously shared their knowledge and experiences. Their guidance will be invaluable as students begin navigating their career choices over the coming years.

• Brendan Seri (Ingham WholeLife Pharmacy & Healthfoods)
• Natalie Agazzani (Optimise Health and Wellness)
• Stephen Lynch (L & W Repairs)
• Dr James (Tropical Vets)
• Madeleine D’Urso (Donnie Harris Law)
• Luke Chittenden (LJT Concreting)
• Olivia Biviano and Taine Waerea (Ellico Group Pty Ltd)
• Kaitlin Gileppa (Piccolo Poompi)
• Zenan Reinaudo (Canegrowers Herbert River)
• Paul King (ISHS)
• Alex Campbell (Queensland Police Service)
• Stephanie Fox (Queensland Department of Education)
• Lyle Smith (SportsPower Ingham)

The event once again highlighted the strength of our local community and its ongoing support in helping prepare students for life beyond school.

1. Caption: All the participating students and local community members of the ‘Speed Careers’ event. Photo supplied
2. Caption: Students meeting with Olivia Biviano and Taine Waerea of Ellico Group Pty Ltd. Photo supplied
3. Caption: Students participating in the ‘Speed Careers’ activity. Photo supplied

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At Gilroy Santa Maria College, the Arts celebrate creativity, individuality, and the joy of making. Our aim is simple: to transform “I am bad at art” into “I had fun making it.”

In Year 7 Art, students are embracing this mindset by stepping outside their comfort zones and exploring new creative possibilities. This term, they have been working with pottery, designing functional yet decorative pieces inspired by our beautiful coastline.

Drawing inspiration from ceramic artists Carlton Ball and Olivia Walker, students have developed skills in coil and slab construction while learning how to bring their ideas to life. Working both collaboratively and independently, they have explored organic forms from the ocean, resulting in imaginative creations ranging from checkerboards inspired by sand dollars and brain coral to water jugs shaped with flowing mermaid tails.

Through experimentation and teamwork, our Year 7 artists are discovering that art is as much about the creative journey as it is about the final piece.

And, they are having a ball!

Article contributor, Georgia Dametto, GSMC Art Teacher

Caption: Year 7 Ceramics, shaping and creating pottery with clay. Photos supplied

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Local marine rescue operations are set to transition from the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard to the Queensland Marine Rescue Service, a move expected to deliver stronger support for smaller coastal communities such as Cardwell and Tully Heads.

The change was outlined during a community meeting held at the Cardwell RSL on Wednesday, March 11, where Marine Rescue Queensland Chief Officer Tony Wulff addressed local volunteers, community representatives and stakeholders.

The meeting focused on the future delivery of marine rescue services in the Hinchinbrook Channel region and surrounding coastal communities.

Key discussion points included ensuring community-donated assets and funding remain within the Cardwell and Tully Heads areas, as well as the return of marine rescue service operations at the Hinchinbrook Channel boat ramp.

Attendees also heard that Queensland Government funding for the service would continue under the new model, including support for new marine rescue vessels and transport assets for both Cardwell and Tully Heads units.

The transition to Marine Rescue Queensland is expected to bring additional benefits for local volunteers and the wider community. Among these is the introduction of cadetship opportunities for young members, creating pathways into industry training and maritime careers.

The meeting also provided an opportunity for community members and volunteers to discuss how marine rescue services can continue to operate effectively across the Cardwell region and neighbouring communities.

Support for the transition appears strong among local groups, with members at a separate meeting in Tully also expressing their backing for the move from the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard to Marine Rescue Queensland.

Local organisers said the discussions were an important step in shaping the future of marine rescue services across the Hinchinbrook Channel region.

Caption: The Coast Guard Tully - VMR 412 received their new Marine Rescue Queensland vessel in February, ahead of the transition. Photo credit: Coast Guard Tully

Caption: Showcasing the beautiful views across the water while on a rescue. Photo credit: Coast Guard Cardwell – QF23

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Canegrowers in the Cassowary Coast and Hinchinbrook regions are being encouraged to attend free disaster resilience workshops aimed at helping farmers better prepare for floods and other extreme weather events.

The workshops will be held on 1 April in Tully at the Tully Support Centre and 21 April in Ingham at the Canegrowers Herbert River office.

Delivered by the Queensland Department of Primary Industries in partnership with Canegrowers, the sessions will focus on helping growers understand how river pathways and floodwaters could impact their properties.

Participants will take part in a one-on-one property mapping activity designed to identify key assets, irrigation systems and natural water flow across their farms.

The workshops will also provide growers with a satellite imagery map of their property to assist with future planning, as well as information on financial assistance available following natural disasters.

A number of experts will attend the sessions to share insights, including representatives from government agencies, river improvement trusts and regional planning organisations.

The workshops form part of the Queensland Government’s Industry Recovery and Resilience Officer program, jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland governments under Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.

The Tully workshop will run from 8.30am to 1.30pm on 1 April at the Tully Support Centre, while the Ingham session will take place from 8.30am to 1.30pm on 21 April at the Canegrowers Herbert River office.

Attendance is free, however registrations are required. Morning tea and lunch will be provided.

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Primary producers impacted by severe weather in early 2025 have been given more time to access financial assistance, with the deadline for disaster recovery grants now extended by six months.

The Australian and Queensland governments have announced that applications for Exceptional Disaster Assistance Recovery Grants of up to $75,000 will now close on 14 August, 2026. The funding supports farmers and producers affected by the North and Far North Tropical Low that caused widespread damage across the region.

The grants are jointly funded through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements and can be used for a range of recovery costs, including clean-up work, replacing damaged infrastructure, replanting crops, disposing of damaged goods, purchasing equipment and covering additional labour costs.

Federal Emergency Management Minister Kristy McBain said the extension would help producers still working through recovery.

“These grants are a lifeline for primary producers who have faced significant weather events over the past year,” Minister McBain said.

“We’re extending this deadline to ensure that primary producers who have been impacted by multiple disaster events over the past year have more time to complete clean-up and recovery activities.”

Federal Agriculture Minister Julie Collins said the additional time would give farmers greater flexibility while managing ongoing recovery.

“Having been on the ground in Queensland last week to see the damage to crops, fences and equipment firsthand, I know this support is critical to helping impacted farmers and producers to get back on their feet quicker,” she said.

Queensland Primary Industries Minister Tony Perrett said the extension recognised the challenges producers continued to face.

“This extension reflects our commitment to standing shoulder-to-shoulder with Queenslanders as they recover from the devastating impacts of the tropical low event in early 2025,” he said.

Queensland Disaster Recovery Minister Ann Leahy said farmers had shown strong resilience.

“This extension is about giving them the time and support they need to recover and rebuild. We’re here to help every step of the way.”

CAPTION: The application deadline for Exceptional Disaster Assistance Recovery Grants of up to $75,000 has been extended to 14 August 2026. Photo source: Shutterstock

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Australia’s agricultural production is forecast to exceed $100 billion this financial year, four years ahead of the National Farmers Federation’s 2030 target.

New forecasts released by the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES) show farm gate production will reach a record $101.4 billion in 2025–26, rising to $107.4 billion when combined with fisheries and forestry. Exports across agriculture, fisheries and forestry are also expected to hit a record high of almost $85 billion.

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Julie Collins said the result reflected the strength of the sector.

“This forecast gives Australians 100 billion reasons to thank our farmers, whose hard work, resilience and skill is helping power our national economy,” she said.

“It shows that the Albanese Labor Government’s work to diversify trade opportunities is helping our farmers and producers to export more of Australia’s world-class agricultural products than ever before.”

The National Farmers Federation first set its $100 billion target in 2018, when the sector was valued at around $88 billion. Since 2022, production value has increased by 15 per cent, with exports now reaching around 190 markets.

NFF President Hamish McIntyre described the forecast as a “landmark moment for Australian agriculture”.

“In 2018, $100 billion was seen as ambitious. Today we’re forecast to reach it ahead of schedule,” he said.

“It proves Australian agriculture can compete with the best in the world.”

CAPTION: Australia’s farm gate production value is forecast to reach a record $101.4 billion in 2025–26, surpassing the National Farmers Federation’s $100 billion target ahead of schedule. Photo source: Shutterstock

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Australian sugarcane growers and industry partners are invited to attend an upcoming online presentation examining the key challenges limiting crop productivity across the industry.

The webinar, titled Agronomy Constraints to Sugarcane Productivity, will be delivered by leading sugarcane agronomist Dr Barry Salter and will explore factors contributing to the yield plateau currently evident in the Australian sugarcane sector.

Topics to be covered include soil compaction, waterlogging, marginal soils, and observations about soil fertility following a recent industry-wide leaf and soil survey. The session will conclude with a live question-and-answer segment, giving participants the opportunity to engage directly with Dr Salter.

Dr Salter, Manager Translation Research at Sugar Research Australia (SRA), has worked as a research agronomist in sugarcane for more than 20 years. His work has focused on farming systems including fallow cropping, minimum tillage, row configurations, nutrient use efficiency, enhanced efficiency fertilisers and interactions with varieties.

The webinar will run from 2pm to 3pm on Thursday, March 12, 2026. Growers and industry stakeholders can register online to attend via https://lnkd.in/ggfyVWPM.

SRA’s Dr Barry Salter will lead the webinar. Photo source: SRA

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The Cassowary Coast is home to some of the most unique ecosystems on Earth, but these environments face constant pressure from pests and invasive species.

Among the most damaging are feral cats, which pose a serious threat to native wildlife. They prey on small mammals, birds and reptiles, spread disease, and are recognised as one of Australia’s most destructive invasive species, significantly impacting biodiversity and ecosystem health.

Concern was recently raised online when residents noted the damage a local cat colony was doing in the seaside town of Cardwell. Many called for trapping and rehoming, alongside suggestions for mandatory desexing and greater owner accountability for wandering and abandoned pets that contribute to feral populations.

Managing pests is a shared responsibility across the community. Whether you are a landholder, farmer, resident, tourism operator or council employee, everyone has a role to play in reducing the spread of invasive species.

With the recently celebrated World Wildlife Day, invasive and pest animals have been the forefront concern for many native wildlife carers and communities.

Under Queensland’s Biosecurity Act 2014, landholders are required to take reasonable steps to manage biosecurity risks on their property. Local councils support this effort through education, guidance and programs such as trapping and trap hire.

A spokesperson from the Cassowary Coast Regional Council said, “Cassowary Coast Regional Council is aware of a population of feral cats in parts of Cardwell and is working with residents and businesses to help identify and trap the animals.

“Feral cats can create issues in communities as they can be unsightly, produce strong odours, spread disease and pose a threat to native wildlife, particularly small mammals and birds.

“Residents are strongly discouraged from feeding wandering cats or allowing pet cats to roam, especially if they are not desexed.

“Council provides cat traps for hire and will assess trapped animals, with suitable cats considered for rehoming. Cats that cannot be rehomed may be humanely euthanised.”

Residents who have feral cats on their property can contact council to arrange access to feral cat traps or seek further information.

For more information about hiring a cat trap, visit www.cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au or contact council on 1300 763 903.

Caption: Every year Feral cats kill millions of native species. Photo credit: Invasive Species Council, Australia

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