Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
With nearly two decades in real estate, Nathan Henderson has built a career grounded in experience, local knowledge, and a genuine understanding of people. After working as an agent for several years, he gained his Principal’s licence in 2007, marking the beginning of a long-standing presence in the Hinchinbrook property market. Nathan specialises in residential sales, rentals, and rural properties, with a particular appreciation for the people behind each transaction. “Residential sales and rentals and rural sales are the bulk of our work and having been around for a while, the people are the best part. We are truly grateful when people are referred to us and we have sold to parents and then children in the same family. Being an agent means helping people navigate an important transition in their life.” With a rural background, Nathan values getting out on the land and understanding how properties function within their environment and community. “It’s easy to focus too locally… we take care to understand what is happening outside of our area to ensure we are reacting quickly to changes in our market for clients.” “Understanding what people are aiming to achieve and when, helps us give advice and strategy in selling their property. We assist with the happiest and saddest moments in people's lives and we are always grateful for the trust our clients put in us.” What advice would you give to first-home buyers looking to settle in the region? “Avoid the FOMO, don’t rush unless it’s the right place… build a relationship with agents so you have a chance of seeing things as they come on the market.”
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Caption: Mr Blake and students at the Halifax memorial
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Last week I was in Brisbane for Parliament, continuing to advocate for the issues that matter most to our region, before returning home to spend time across the Hinchinbrook electorate. A key focus during the sitting week was the need for Queensland to become more self-sufficient, particularly when it comes to critical inputs like fuel and fertiliser. For communities like ours, these are important issues that directly impact the cost of living, our farmers, and the strength of our local economy. We have seen how global events can disrupt supply chains and drive-up costs. That’s why I have continued to push for greater sovereign capability, so Queensland is less exposed to international uncertainty. The Crisafulli Government is committed to strengthening this self-sufficiency and ensuring regional communities like Hinchinbrook are better protected into the future. We also passed the third tranche of Adult Crime, Adult Time laws in Parliament. This builds on the work already underway to restore community safety after a decade where victim numbers rose 193% under the former government. While we are starting to see some early signs of progress from stronger laws and a more focused approach, I know from conversations across our community that there is more to do. Turning around long-term challenges takes time, but the commitment remains clear: to back our police, hold offenders accountable, and make our communities safer. On Saturday, I had the privilege of attending a number of ANZAC Day services across the electorate, including the Dawn Service, RSL service, cemetery service, as well as services at Forrest Beach, Halifax and Cardwell. Each service was moving in its own way, and it was encouraging to see such strong attendance across all locations. It speaks to the deep respect our community holds for those who have served, and the importance of continuing to honour their sacrifice. It is always a privilege to stand alongside our community on ANZAC Day and reflect on the values of service, mateship and sacrifice that continue to shape our nation. As always, I will continue to take the voices of Hinchinbrook to Brisbane, while staying closely connected to our community here at home.
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The Crisafulli Government is launching a new international prize for eight high-achieving Queensland students and two teachers. Successful applicants will fly to London to visit the birthplace of Westminster democracy and will undertake trips to Canberra and Brisbane parliaments. Applications for the inaugural program open on Monday 18 May to Queensland Year 9 students. The Crisafulli Government is delivering a plan for Queensland’s future and supporting the State’s students and teachers. The Crisafulli Government is delivering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Queensland students and teachers to experience the birthplace of parliamentary democracy through a prestigious education prize. Launching today, the Westminster Prize is open to all Year 9 students across Queensland’s state schools, non-state schools, and homeschool settings who have a strong interest in civics and citizenship. It’s just one of the ways the Crisafulli Government is delivering a plan for Queensland’s future after a decade of decline under Labor. Eight successful students will fly to London next year with two teacher chaperones to experience first-hand aspects of the Westminster system of government, which is the foundation of Australia’s parliamentary democracy. The prize also includes trips to Canberra and Brisbane parliaments where students will gain valuable knowledge, insights and experiences with Australia’s political system. The Westminster Prize is a new initiative from the Crisafulli Government and adds to existing excellence programs including the Premier’s ANZAC Prize, the Premier’s Reading Challenge and the Peter Doherty Awards. Minister for Education John-Paul Langbroek said the Westminster Prize aimed to strengthen Queensland students’ understanding of civics, citizenship and democratic participation. “This exciting new program offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for our students to travel to London, Canberra and Brisbane to learn about our rich history and political system,” Minister Langbroek said. “Today’s students are our future leaders, and the Crisafulli Government’s new Westminster Prize is a fantastic opportunity for them to travel, explore and deepen their understanding of democratic values. “Through the Westminster Prize, the eight students will grow their understanding of Queensland’s parliamentary system, Australia’s federal democracy and the Westminster model in the UK. “As well as their travels, the prize winners will deliver a local civics project focused on a community issue, applying their learning to real-world contexts.” British Consul General for Queensland and the Northern Territory Richard Cowin said he was delighted to support the fantastic initiative. “This exciting award gives students an amazing opportunity to see how the Westminster system works in real life and to experience the democratic traditions that connect the UK and Australia,” Mr Cowin said. “In a fast-changing world, understanding our shared values and approaches is more important than ever. “This prize will enable a lucky group of young Queenslanders to experience these principles firsthand and draw on them throughout their lives.” Applications to be part of the inaugural Westminster Prize open on 18 May and close 31 July, with interviews and selection in August and September. For more information, visit the website.
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Cardwell parkrun marked a special milestone last weekend, celebrating its 8th birthday with a great turnout despite the wet weather. It was wonderful to see the community come together to celebrate how far the event has come over the years. A big thank you goes to Janet, who first started Cardwell parkrun and helped bring the event to life for the local community. Congratulations also to Jan and Terry for reaching an incredible 250 and 150 volunteer milestones respectfully.
Long-time supporters like the Ball and Clarke families continue to be a huge part of the event each week, and of course none of it would be possible without the participants who have joined in over the past eight years. And although I couldn't be there to celebrate with you all due to my directorial duties at Palm Creek this week, a special mention should go to Seabreeze Café, for hosting runners and walkers for coffee and breakfast each week, and for the amazing looking birthday cake, I bet it tasted a great as it looked!
And in Palm Creek the numbers swelled to an amazing 44 participants, bolstered by visitors and the boys from St Teresa’s College in Abergowrie, who were on the course completing their Run Army challenge. Congratulations to everyone who achieved a PB on such a hot morning, I bet those Zooper Doopers tasted extra sweet afterwards!
Parkrun Results: 14th March 2026
Palm Creek #116 – 44 participants
Fastest time: Julian Lee (18:53)
Final finisher: Steven Veltmeyer (1:00:53)
PBs: Julian Lee (18:53), Christopher Gunston (28:37), Torah Sheahan (30:39), Sean Krumin (30:49), Ben Downing (35:10), Carolyn Gunston (43:20), Danielle Scovazzi (44:14), Diane Biasi (47:34)
First-timers: Jason Barra (23:39), Ciara Dunleavy (32:34), Evie Gibson (33:50), Danielle Gibson (39:52)
Volunteers: Victoria Velton, Sandra Coco, Amanda Towner, Kelly Krumin, Steven Veltmeyer
Cardwell #378 – 21 participants
Fastest time: Jason Smith (23:31)
Final finisher: Sarah Ritchie (1:00:45)
First-timers: Thomas Webster (25:45)
Volunteers: Anita Davina, David Clarke, Jan Ferguson, Terry Curtin, Sarah Ritchie, Kerry Snell
Photos sourced from Cardwell & Palm Creek Parkrun Facebook pages
The Cassowary Coast Business Women’s Network (CCBWN) came together for a gorgeous lunch prepared by chef Marco and hosted by Ali Eberhard and team at the King Reef Resort, Kurrimine Beach on Sunday 8 March. We had a few reasons to celebrate. Firstly, it was International Women's Day - this year the IWD 2026 Give To Gain Campaign was about encouraging a mindset of generosity and collaboration - emphasising the power of reciprocity and support. When people, organisations, and communities give generously, opportunities and support for women increase. When women thrive, we all rise. The CCBWN is thriving in numbers, and we see more and more support for each other and our businesses through the connections that we are building which we hope will enable our members to thrive and rise.
It was our Birthday – 22 years ago on 8 March 2004 the CCBWN held its first meeting to determine if this was a group that wanted to proceed. It certainly has done that, and testament to the credibility of the Network, the first President, Jen Downs, was in attendance at Sunday’s lunch.
We also wanted to celebrate our incredible growth (3 years ago we had 19 members and now we have 72). It is exciting to see local businesses as well as people moving into the area who join the CCBWN and see our organisation as a professional group of women who can support them in their business development and build connections with.
With a mix of new and long-term members as well as guests attending, we took the opportunity to get to know more about each other and what we may have in common. In pairs, we had one on one conversations to learn more about each other, both professionally and personally, then each group shared the information they had discovered about each other. It was a fantastic way to build connections and gain a greater understanding of the people who run, or work, in our local businesses.
The next CCBWN event is planned for 21 April 2026 and will be hosted by Patrick and team at the Shanti Café, Mission Beach who will prepare some magnificent Mediterranean inspired cuisine for us. Working in small teams we will ask the question – ‘How Much Do You Know’ about the Cassowary Coast region, local businesses, the CCBWN and a little bit of general knowledge too. It will be a fun night.
Photos in order of importance-
Group Shot: Members gathered for The Cassowary Coast Business Women’s Network event on March 8. Photo supplied
Photo 1: Tracey Wilson, Jen Downs, Teresa Millwood, Ellen Jessop at the event. Photo supplied
Photo 3: Michelle Mathews, Eli Eberhard, Shari Rakic, Jade Parsonage, Gitta Yelds. Photo supplied
Photo 2: Gitta Yelds and Hannah Baird in a pair getting to know each other. Photo supplied
Businesses across the Cassowary Coast play a vital role in shaping our region. From agriculture and trades to retail, tourism and professional services, local businesses create jobs, drive innovation and help define the character and liveability of our communities. Running a business today takes courage, resilience and leadership, and the Local Business Awards are an opportunity to recognise that effort.
If you operate a business in the Cassowary Coast, this is your chance to step forward, share your story and be recognised for the impact you are making across the region. Whether your business is based in Cardwell, Tully, Innisfail, Mission Beach or anywhere in between, the awards celebrate the people and enterprises helping our communities grow stronger together.
Businesses can nominate across a range of categories, while community members will also have the chance to show their support through the People’s Choice Award.
The awards recognise excellence, leadership and commitment across many industries, offering businesses a platform to showcase their achievements and inspire others.
Nominate your business in one or more of the following Award categories:
Outstanding Business Achievement
Excellence in Community Engagement
Professional Services Customer Excellence
Trade, Retail and Services Excellence
Leading Employer Recognition
Rising Star Business Award
Environmental Sustainability Leadership
Innovation and Technology Excellence
Caption: Running a business today takes courage, resilience and leadership, and the Local Business Awards are an opportunity to recognise that effort. Photo credit: Cassowary Coast Regional Council
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
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
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
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.
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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.
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Caption: Sunday 8 March, Forrest Beach Branch QCWA held a Devonshire Tea morning for International Women’s Day. Photos supplied
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
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
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.
The event once again highlighted the strength of our local community and its ongoing support in helping prepare students for life beyond school.
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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
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Caption: Year 7 Ceramics, shaping and creating pottery with clay. Photos supplied
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
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.
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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