The improving weather conditions locally, is witnessing a return of the visitor drive market to the Hinchinbrook Shire for 2025.

Welcoming visitors to the district is a very important milestone for the Shire, in terms of the community recovery and signifying some return to routine, as well as providing economic benefit to the community.

This current tourism season is already witnessing encouraging trends in overnight visitation at the local RV Parks and reflects a steady presence of visitors in the wider community.

The strong early start of the drive market visitation this year, is raising hopes for positive growth and improvement to tourist numbers recorded this year.

These are encouraging statistics help guide decision making in relation to Council investment in supporting the growth of the tourism sector in the Shire.  As the community is aware, a number of Council assets have been damaged during the flood event and are still awaiting repair.

Sadly, the Hinchinbrook Visitor Information Centre has been impacted, yet the very dedicated staff who support the tourism industry locally, have worked tirelessly to continue their service delivery from a demountable on-site.

Our passionate team continues to welcome travellers from across the globe with big smiles, tailored travel tips, and a whole lot of local pride. From self-guided strolls through the stunning TYTO Wetlands to exploring hidden gems across our region, the visitor experience is still alive and well — because at the end of the day, it’s not the building that makes the magic, it’s the people.

Thank you to our staff and volunteers for their resilience. It’s certainly not going unnoticed.

Another example of our community spirit is the upcoming Lucinda Coastal Clean Up on Saturday 19 July 2025. Volunteers will help remove flood debris along the beaches, mangroves, and foreshore from Dungeness to Gentle Annie Creek, with all waste collected and disposed of. The clean up will kick off at Borello Park Lucinda at 7.30am and we hope to see you there.

This event is proudly supported by Hinchinbrook Shire Council as a Reef Guardian Council, alongside our partners: Lucinda Progress Association, Herbert River Catchment and Landcare Group, Girringun Aboriginal Corporation, and the Ingham Rod and Reel Club. Lunch will be provided, and to register, simply call Council on 4776 4600.

I also encourage all residents to take part in the 2025 February Severe Weather Event Community Feedback Survey, which closes on Sunday 20 July 2025. Your feedback is vital to helping us plan, respond, and recover more effectively in the future.

Let’s keep building a Hinchinbrook that’s ready for anything.

As a Councillor for the Shire of Hinchinbrook, I am committed to transparency and keeping our community informed about the recent budget decisions that directly impact our residents. After extensive discussions and careful consideration, we have approved an overall rate increase of 4.79% for the upcoming financial year. For more information, visit Council’s website.

This decision was not made lightly. Council understands that any increase in rates can be a concern for our ratepayers. However, this adjustment is essential to ensure we can continue to provide high-quality services, particularly in the areas of waste management and sewage treatment, which fall under my portfolio. Our infrastructure requires ongoing maintenance and improvement to meet the growing needs of our community. The additional revenue generated from this rate increase will ensure they remain efficient, reliable, and environmentally compliant.

This investment will help us reduce the risk of system disruption.

Moreover, we are committed to implementing innovative solutions to improve our services while keeping costs manageable. As we look to the future, our goal is to strike a balance between maintaining essential services and minimising the financial burden on our residents.

I encourage all residents to stay engaged and provide feedback on how we can continue to improve our community. Together, we can ensure that Hinchinbrook remains a great place to live, work, and raise a family. Thank you for your understanding and support as we navigate these important decisions for our shire.

For any questions or further information, please feel free to reach out to me.

The new QCAR Herbert Committee was installed on 18 June 2025. The results of the recent QCAR District Committee elections were announced in May following the election. Successfully elected to the five available committee positions were:

· John Board (Chair)
· Matthew Pappin (Deputy Chair)
· Walter Giordani
· Gino Zatta
· Robert Carey

Michael Penna was appointed to the Committee as the AgForce delegate and representative.

QCAR Herbert District Manager Lawrence Di Bella said he and the Committee would like to thank Carole Mackee and Bradley Perkins for their nominations, however they were unsuccessful in this bid on this occasion.

“The calibre of all the nominees was of a very high standard and quality, making the decision a difficult one for members to elect the Committee,” Mr Di Bella said.

“Having a well-contested election is a sign of a healthy and vibrant organisation, whereby its members are engaged, willing to give their time and effort to drive the industry forward.

“We would also like to thank our outgoing Committee members who have served our industry well - Johnathan Biasi, Carole Mackee and Ian Kemp. We would like to give a special mention to Ian and Carole for decades of service to the ACFA, the integration of ACFA into QCAR and more recently as QCAR committee members – job very well done.”

John Board accepted the role as QCAR Herbert District Committee Chair and Matthew Pappin accepted the role as QCAR Herbert Committee Deputy Chair and QCAR/ACFA National Board member.

The new Herbert QCAR Committee look forward to working hard for its members and advancing the industry, he said.

During the QCAR Herbert District Committee meeting Matthew Pappin and QCAR Herbert District Manager Lawrence Di Bella presented Carol Mackee and Ian Kemp

with commemorative cane knives. This gesture recognised their longstanding dedication to the cane industry and their tireless involvement with both ACFA and QCAR.

Mr Di Bella said the QCAR Herbert Committee extended a heartfelt thank you to Carol and Ian for their commitment and contributions to the industry for many years.

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A Morning Tea For Women In Agriculture

In the heart of every thriving agricultural community, there's a network of dedicated individuals whose contributions often extend beyond the visible fields and livestock. While the day-to-day management of farms keeps many busy, it's often the wives, partners, and women behind the scenes who deftly handle the crucial administrative and logistical aspects of the agricultural business. Their insights, resilience, and unique perspectives are invaluable, particularly as communities navigate the path of recovery.

Recognising this vital role, Jane Carne, Community Recovery Officer, has been actively engaging with various sectors to understand their progress and identify areas where support can be most effective. It's clear that the agricultural community holds a special place in these efforts, and specifically, the women within it who contribute so significantly.

To foster connection and provide a relaxed forum for these remarkable individuals, Jane is hosting a special morning tea event titled "Coffee • Crops • Conversations." This initiative is designed to be an informal gathering where women (and any gentlemen who wish to attend) in agriculture can come together. It's an opportunity to sip on some coffee, share experiences, and engage in conversations about how they are faring and any challenges they might be encountering as the community progresses through recovery.

This isn't a formal presentation or a structured seminar. Instead, it's an open invitation to simply drop in, have a coffee on us, and connect with peers who understand the unique demands and rewards of life in agriculture. Whether you can spare the entire morning or just a brief moment, your presence and perspective would be warmly welcomed.

"We value the incredible contributions of all those involved in our agricultural sector and believe that by coming together, we can further strengthen our community's recovery journey," Jane said.

"We encourage all interested to mark their calendars and join us for what promises to be a supportive and enriching morning."

Event Details:

When: 25 July 2025

Time: 8:30am - 11:00am

Where: JK's Deli

Cost: Free

RSVP: By 3:00pm on 23 July at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/women-in-agriculture-morning-tea-tickets-1468228193049?aff=oddtdtcreator
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We look forward to seeing you there and continuing to cultivate a strong, supportive agricultural community.

On 12 July, the shoreline at Balgal Beach was buzzing with excitement as 117 young anglers and their families took part in the annual Fisherman’s Landing Fishing & Social Club Kids Fishing Classic. What began as a small, local effort to get kids active and outdoors has grown into a community highlight, drawing support from across the region.

Thanks to generous sponsors and the dedicated efforts of the Club, the morning was filled with rods, reels, and smiles, as children tested their luck in the hope of reeling in the big one.

State Member for Hinchinbrook, Nick Dametto MP, was full of praise for the community spirit on display.

“There was a great fishing competition at Balgal Beach yesterday, hosted by the Fisherman's Landing Fishing & Social Club. What started with about 30 entrants has steadily grown — 60 the next year, then 70, and this year we saw 117 kids out there fishing. It was just fantastic to see young kids, their families, parents, carers and siblings all out enjoying the great outdoors. The weather really turned it on, and afterwards many stopped in at Fisherman's Landing for some fish and chips — especially those who didn’t manage to catch the big one!”


One proud parent, Jamie Lejarraga, whose daughter took out the Biggest Fish prize, shared her joy:

“It was a well-run kids' fishing comp and a fun morning. My daughter was super stoked to win the biggest fish — cheers to Nick Dametto MP and Fisherman’s Landing Fishing & Social Club Balgal Beach Inc.”


With its growing popularity and strong community backing, the Kids Fishing Classic looks set to become an even bigger tradition in years to come.

Last term ended on a high note at Our Lady of Lourdes, as families were warmly welcomed into classrooms across all year levels for the school's Learning Journey events.

Parents and carers had the chance to step into their children's school day and celebrate their academic and creative achievements from Term 2.

"It was a wonderful opportunity for families to see the progress their children have made and enjoy a glimpse into daily classroom life," said a Grade 4 representative.

A highlight of the event came from the Year 6 classrooms, where students proudly presented websites they had created about significant figures involved in Australian Federation.

"It was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate their hard work and all they achieved in Term 2," shared the teacher.

The enthusiasm wasn’t limited to the older students. In Year 1, the excitement was just as strong.

"Our students were thrilled to showcase their hard work and creativity," expressed a Year 1 teacher.

Congratulations to all students on a fantastic Term 2—best of luck as Term 3 begins!

Ingham State High School’s Relay for Resilience was a resounding success, with students clocking an incredible 3,081 laps, totalling 1,232km, the equivalent of running all the way to Bundaberg!

This student-led initiative was more than just a physical challenge as it was a celebration of School spirit, determination, and resilience. From start to finish, the atmosphere was electric, with students donning vibrant costumes and body paint, embracing the event with enthusiasm and creativity.

Bringing the school community together in a shared goal to support flood recovery efforts both locally and in Western Queensland. Thanks to the overwhelming support of sponsors, families, and friends, all funds raised will go directly to GIVIT, helping those still rebuilding their lives after the devastating floods.

Events like this remind us of the strength and spirit within our schools and wider community. Well done to all involved — you’ve not only run far, but you’ve made a real difference.

by Victoria Velton

Palm Creek was packed with energy, with 28 runners out on the course, including six travellers and four new PBs — myself included! I don't wear a watch when I run, so it's always a nice surprise to see how much I've improved each week. This time, I aimed to really push myself, going for 35 minutes (I usually run closer to 40). Fellow runner Maria and I kept each other paced and competitive, both striving to improve, and we finished at 36 minutes, just 10 seconds apart! Thank you to Steven in the cheer squad and the ladies at the finish line for all your encouragement.

Cardwell saw a huge leap in numbers this week, with 42 participants, including 16 visitors and new faces — what a fantastic turnout! Congratulations to Dave Morris on completing 25 parkruns, and a big thank you to him as well for donating post-run Zooper Doopers. Well done to Margot and Rachelle on achieving new PBs. Welcome to all the visitors this morning, and thanks to all the volunteers.

Remember, you can grab a coffee or post-parkrun brekkie with friends afterwards. The Cardwell crew love the atmosphere (and milkshakes!) at Seabreeze Café Lounge, and you’re welcome to join in too!

Park Run Results: 12th July 2025
Palm Creek #81 - 26 participants.
Fastest time: 20:38
Finishers time: 57:57
Volunteers: Erin Cerutti, Sandra Coco, Helen Digger, Bridgette Duffy, Julie Mac Pherson, Amanda Towner, Steven Veltmeyer

Cardwell #343 - 42 participants.
Fastest time: 23:45
Finishers time: 59:09
Volunteers: Kellie Ball, Teela Crooks, Terry Curtin, Jan Ferguson, Kerry Snell, Ward Weare

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Hiya Hinchinbrook Shire! I feel like I have driven all over the region and had so many wonderful experiences this week, documenting and photographing events for the paper.

I met the lovely volunteers at Meals on Wheels, and the great crowd at the Seniors Coffee Club (sorry to interrupt your bingo!), the amazing staff at the Pie Face and United Petroleum reopening, and then the fantastic volunteers of the North Queensland Wildlife Care who were raising orphaned joeys on the top of Mt Fox.

The drive was pretty challenging to the top of the mountain, but the joey cuteness and the lovely market of friendly people were so worth the trip to me. I picked up two books from the book swap there and said hello to many happy dogs. The views along the drive were spectacular, and the fresh mountain air was crisp and cleansing. If you have the chance, go visit the markets or camp at the grounds, they're held on the 1st Saturday of every month.

This weekend holds the Ingham Gold Cup Races, and I will be there, camera in hand to capture the fierce competition of both the horses and the fashions on the field - hope you all prepared your fascinators!

Victoria

Fun Fact: A relic of north Queensland's volcanic past, Mount Fox is an isolated, well-preserved, dormant volcano with a shallow crater which was formed 100,000 years ago by a volcanic eruption.

Vic Bargery, a resident of the Rockingham Home for the Aged, would like to give a big “Yay of the Week” to the Cardwell Shire Council for their swift response following a recent safety concern.

Vic regularly travels between the aged care facility and Cardwell town centre on his mobility scooter. During one of these daily trips, a large tree branch (albeit light), fell from a tree on the Esplanade, grazing his cheek, bruising his chest, and injuring his shoulder.

After contacting the Council to report the incident, Vic was pleasantly surprised by how quickly the matter was handled. Within two days, he received a call advising that two arborists would be inspecting the tree and were happy to meet with him to discuss what needed to be done.

The inspection confirmed that the tree posed a risk and required trimming. While someone later removed the identification tape marking the tree—possibly fearing it would be cut down—the Council proceeded with the agreed trimming only, making the tree safe while preserving it for the community to enjoy.

“Well done to the Council and its workers,” Vic said. As it was a win–win outcome and applauded the Council for taking his report seriously and following through with such professionalism and care. It’s great to see action taken quickly, with thought for both safety and the environment.

Ingham Gold Cup Race Day This Saturday - Book Your Tickets Now!

Get ready for a day of racing, fashion, and community celebration as the Ingham Gold Cup returns on Saturday 12 July! Hosted by the Herbert River Jockey Club, this iconic 18+ event promises thrilling local races, live Sky Racing coverage, and the glamour of Fashions on the Field.

Gates open at 11am, with pre-booked tables, on-site catering by Marian & Piera Catering, and plenty of action trackside. Whether you're backing a winner or just there for the atmosphere, it's the social event of the season. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the excitement!

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Ingham’s Biggest Day At The Races

The Herbert River Jockey Club is proud to present the 2025 Ingham Gold Cup, taking place on Saturday 12 July. This is strictly an 18+ event, with gates opening at 11am for what promises to be a day full of excitement, fashion, and community spirit.

Entry tickets are $20 and can be pre-purchased online. Reserved table tickets are also available online only, at a cost of $120 per table, with each table seating ten. Gate entry tickets will also be available for purchase on the day.

Attendees can look forward to five thrilling local races, with both local and southern bookmakers on site, as well as Sky Racing coverage. While an ATM will be available, patrons are advised there will be no on-course TAB facilities. Catering on race day will be provided by Marian & Piera Catering, offering delicious options throughout the event.

The ever-popular Fashions on the Field will return in full glamour, with categories including Contemporary Lady of the Track, Classic Lady of the Track, Best Dressed Man of the Track, Millinery, and the Spotters Choice Award.

Please note that photo identification must be produced upon request. For safety and security, eskies, glass, tables, or chairs will not be permitted through the gate, and no BYO or containers of liquid will be allowed with bags searched upon entry.

The Ingham Gold Cup is proudly supported by a wide range of local businesses and sponsors, helping to bring this signature event to life.

Bookings can be made online at www.trybooking.com/DCHZT or by scanning the QR code featured on promotional materials.

WHAT: Ingham Gold Cup
WHERE: 69 Marina Parade
WHEN: Saturday 12th July

Opinion Piece

Queenslanders deserve the right to feel safe in their own homes. That’s why I’ve launched a fresh parliamentary petition calling for the urgent introduction of Castle Law in Queensland. Castle Law would allow you to defend yourself, your loved ones and your property with whatever means necessary during a home invasion.

Last term, I sponsored a Castle Law petition that gained more than 40,000 signatures in just over five weeks. This demonstrated that many Queenslanders want this law change to galvanise the rights of homeowners who are forced to defend themselves or their families.

During that time, I also introduced the Criminal Code (Defensive Dwelling and Other Premises – Castle Law)
Amendment Bill 2024. Although I had the opportunity to address the Community Safety and Legal Affairs Committee on the need for this legislation to be passed, not one public hearing was held and the bill was allowed to lapse before the 2024 State election. With the change of government, our lobbying efforts now turn to convincing the LNP to adopt this policy and enact it into law. With public support, I believe this can be achieved.

Queenslanders deserve to feel safe. They deserve to know that if someone breaks into their home, the law will be on their side if they are forced to defend themselves. Right now, our laws make people second-guess their instincts in life-or-death situations. That hesitation can cost lives.

Castle Law is about restoring the balance and putting the rights of victims before offenders. The most effective way for this to happen is if the State Government supports the policy and introduces its own Castle Law bill. If they don’t, Katter’s Australian Party will be introducing their own once more.

I truly believe defending yourself in your home should be a God given right, and my commitment is to ensure that Queenslanders one day have that right without fear of legal ramifications.

The petition is open now and can be signed on the Queensland Parliament website. It closes on the 24th of October 2025. https://www.parliament.qld.gov.au/Work-of-the-Assembly/Petitions/Petition-Details?id=4267

Nick Dametto MP Member for Hinchinbrook

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One Community Group At A Time

Powerlink continues to support community programs across Queensland, investing in their long-term success by providing funding, equipment, and supplies to help them deliver valuable services. Just last week, both Ingham Meals on Wheels and Ingham Tennis Club received a welcome boost from Powerlink, delivered by representative Ben Galvin.

Ben Galvin explained, "This donation is part of our community investment programme, funded by the Genex Kidston project out at Greenvale. We are helping the communities and the LGAs where we're operating. So, we had a connection with Meals On Wheels, and we're happy to help them by supplying the oven that was the necessary equipment needed to increase their capacity. This donation aligns with our programme to really help the communities that we're operating in."

Terrie Christensen, Service Manager at Ingham Meals on Wheels, shared her appreciation, "With sincere gratitude, Ingham Meals on Wheels would like to thank Powerlink for donating the Combi-Oven. As a team, we simply couldn’t do what we do without amazing businesses like Powerlink. Powerlink’s generosity means everything to us and the community. It has allowed Ingham Meals on Wheels to grow, and in turn, serve those within the community who not only need our service, but rely on it."

Richard Peeke, President of the Ingham Tennis Club, also expressed thanks, highlighting how the donation has supported the club’s junior development. It was through the donation from Powerlink that many young children in the local community could experience the joy and fun of playing tennis for free; "We would just like to thank Powerlink for their sponsorship in providing supportive funds towards Junior coaching, which is greatly increasing the number of kids who are coming to the club." He added with a smile, "And hopefully we'll see some future tennis stars out of them."

In a heartening reminder of the value of rural health care, the Ingham Health Service recently celebrated nine years since the reopening of its maternity service — and what better way to mark the occasion than with the birth of four babies in just 24 hours?

On the 7th and 8th of April, four mothers; Giorgia Firmi, Marites Carao, Hannah Bestmann, and Leah Dingwell, welcomed their little ones into the world, creating a unique bond not only between their babies, but among themselves as part of this milestone moment.

For first-time mum Giorgia Firmi, the experience was both challenging and affirming.

“I was in labour for probably 15 hours, and it was a really long night but she (my midwife Kelly) stayed for probably longer than she was supposed to,” Ms Firmi said, expressing her gratitude.

Fellow mum Marites Carao echoed the sentiment, praising the compassionate care she received throughout her pregnancy and delivery.

“As a first-time mum, it’s a very exciting journey and the midwives and doctors supported me throughout my entire pregnancy, through to the delivery and aftercare,” she said.

For Hannah Bestmann, who had previously delivered her two other children in a major hospital, the contrast highlighted the expertise and reassurance provided at Ingham.

“The first two were born at Sunshine Coast University Hospital, and while the facilities at SCUH are more aesthetic and fresher, the expertise of my two midwives here in Ingham was noticeably significant,” she shared.

“I felt more and more confident in their care with each appointment, and they helped me trust my body to naturally labour without interventions which I appreciated and had hoped for.”

These powerful testimonies shine a light on a service that almost ceased to exist. Ingham’s birthing unit was closed for a decade before community advocacy led to its triumphant reopening on the 1st of July, 2016. Since then, it has gone from strength to strength — a testament to the commitment of its staff and the value of health care close to home.

Senior Medical Officer Dr Carmel Cockburn reflected on the journey so far.

“The ability to provide a safe and consistent rural birthing service despite workplace shortages across rural Australia has been a huge achievement,” she said.

“It has required constant dedication from our team and community. Our team includes midwives, rural generalists with obstetric and anaesthetic skills, as well as theatre nurses for those times caesarean section or operative complications arise.”

Clinical midwife Jodie Nema emphasised the importance of ensuring access to maternity services locally.

“We provide an essential service that encompasses antenatal, birth and postnatal care to pregnant women and their families in the Hinchinbrook area,” she explained.

“The midwifery group practice has capacity to provide services both at the hospital, and where appropriate, in-home care. We also work closely with maternity services at Townsville University Hospital when higher levels of care or support are required.”

At a time when many rural maternity services are under threat, Ingham's model shows what is possible when dedication, skill, and community will intersect. As the maternity team celebrates its ninth anniversary with four beautiful new arrivals, it reminds us that small towns can offer not only safe care—but exceptional care.

Expectant families in the region can self-refer to the service or be referred through their GP. For more information, call 07 4720 3050.

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How Will this Impact Our Region?

The Federal Government has taken serious steps to implement a gas reservation policy (RRP) on the east coast of Australia. However, the details of the plan will determine whether Mount Isa and North West Minerals Province survive or collapse.

Mayor Ramon Jayo commented, “I’m becoming increasingly concerned about what’s happening in Mount Isa, particularly with talk of the smelter shutting down and Glencore ceasing operations there,” he said. “While it’s undeniably tragic for the region in terms of employment and long-term viability, there’s also a broader issue that could directly impact our cane-growing district.”

“Phosphate Hill relies heavily on sulphuric acid from the Mount Isa smelter. It’s a byproduct of their operations and a critical ingredient in manufacturing phosphate-based fertilisers, which our local cane growers use extensively. If that acid supply is disrupted, it’s going to put serious pressure on fertiliser production.”

He continued, “Even now, they’re already facing rising gas costs to keep things running, and we’re starting to worry about what that means for phosphate prices and, in turn, fertiliser costs. Cane growers are already copping increased fuel prices, and if fertiliser costs go up too, that’s going to hurt.”

“It’s something we need to keep a very close eye on, because any further cost inflation will have a knock-on effect across our whole industry. Hopefully, the government can step in and help resolve some of the issues with Glencore, so we can keep something going — to support our farmers and ensure there’s reliable continuity in the production of phosphate fertilisers.”

Bob Katter, the Federal Member for Kennedy, also voiced his concerns on the issue: "The complete collapse of Mount Isa's industrial base was imminent last week. The dominoes were already falling. Mount Isa pulls 3,000 jobs directly out of Townsville and fuels billions in industrial exports. If it goes under, it's not just a local issue – it's a national one."

Katter compared the situation to Western Australia, where a long-standing gas reservation policy is helping power the construction of a giant fertiliser plant by saying: "Here, we've got a fertiliser plant in Mount Isa that alone can bring in a thousand million dollars in a good year. And we're hanging by a thread."

While the Federal Government’s move toward an east coast gas reservation policy is a step in the right direction, its effectiveness will hinge on swift and strategic implementation. Local leaders and industry voices warn that without decisive action to secure an affordable gas supply and stabilise operations at key industrial hubs like Mount Isa, the ripple effects will be felt far beyond the region, from fertiliser production to jobs, and exports across northern Queensland.

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