Queenslanders Urged To Stick To Science As Melanoma Rates Remain Highest Worldwide Health experts are urging Queenslanders to rely on proven medical advice, not social media myths, when it comes to sun safety, as the state continues to record the highest melanoma rates in the world. Dermatologist Associate Professor Erin McMeniman, from Princess Alexandra Hospital and the University of Queensland’s School of Medicine, says misinformation about sunscreen is spreading online at an alarming rate. “Particularly in Queensland, most people receive enough sun exposure to produce vitamin D simply through their daily incidental activities, such as hanging out the washing or checking the letterbox,” she said. She warns that unprotected sun exposure remains the leading cause of melanoma and other skin cancers, with 4,085 Queenslanders diagnosed in 2021 and 385 losing their lives. “Skin damage can occur after 10 minutes exposure when the UV index is at 3 or above. In Queensland, the UV index is 3 or above all year round, even in winter,” she said. In recent weeks, UV levels have reached 14 and 15, classified as “extreme”, further emphasising the need for regular sun protection. Despite these well-established risks, a range of myths persist online, including claims that sunscreen causes cancer, that tans prevent sunburn, or that darker-skinned people cannot get skin cancer. Assoc Prof McMeniman says these claims are not only false, but dangerous. “Unprotected sun exposure has been proven to cause cancer.” She adds that sunscreen found in make-up is rarely strong enough to provide real protection. “You need SPF30 or higher rating to be protected against sun exposure,” she said. “If it’s not SPF30 or above, you should be wearing additional sunscreen under your makeup when you’re in the sun for an extended period.” Assoc Prof McMeniman says one of the biggest concerns is the rising number of Queensland children experiencing sunburn, with nearly half reporting at least one burn in the past year. “Sunburn in childhood, frequent sunburn and sunburn that blisters the skin all increase a person’s susceptibility to UV-related cancers,” she said. Adults over 60 remain the most at-risk group due to limited sun safety education when they were young. However, she says younger generations are benefiting from decades of awareness campaigns, with melanoma rates now slightly declining in those under 40. As Queensland heads into another Summer of intense UV levels, the message from experts remains clear: slip, slop, slap and slide, every day.
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There’s nothing quite like the taste of homegrown bushtucker. Bringing native Australian plants into your garden is a delicious way to connect with the land and enjoy fresh, seasonal flavours straight from your backyard. Here are four native plants that are easy to grow and a joy to harvest. Riberry Riberry, also known as lilly pilly, is a versatile shrub or small tree that brightens the garden with its glossy foliage and colourful fruit. The berries have a unique, spicy flavour with hints of clove and cinnamon, making them ideal for jams, sauces, or desserts. It's a magnet for birds and pollinators, so while you’re enjoying the fruits, your garden is also supporting local wildlife. Kangaroo Apple Kangaroo apple is a striking shrub that offers a distinct visual interest to the garden, with vibrant purple flowers and sweet, tangy fruit. The berries are delicious when fully ripe and can be enjoyed fresh or in creative dishes such as salads or preserves. Lemon Myrtle Lemon myrtle is a fragrant, evergreen plant prized for its intensely citrus-scented leaves. Perfect for teas, marinades, desserts, or sauces, this rainforest native is both ornamental and highly functional. It can be pruned to a manageable size, making it suitable for gardens of any scale. Lemon myrtle’s year-round leaves and aromatic qualities make it a must-have for any bush-tucker garden. Midyim Berry The midyim berry, or midgen berry, is a low-growing shrub with sweet, tangy berries that resemble blueberries. Its copper-toned new growth adds aesthetic charm, and the fruit is perfect for jams, sauces, or simply eating fresh. It also supports pollinators and provides food for native wildlife, making it an excellent choice for gardeners who want to cultivate a productive and ecologically friendly space. Why Grow Bushtucker? Native edible plants are naturally adapted to Australian soils and climates, often requiring less water and maintenance than exotic alternatives. They support biodiversity, offering food and habitat for birds, insects, and other wildlife. And, of course, they taste incredible, fresh, unique, and full of nutrients. A true taste of Australian bush bliss.
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Rachel Cauchis' Newest Optometrist Joining the team around the start of May, the practice’s newest optometrist has quickly settled into his role and has now been here for around seven months. When asked how he is finding it, he laughed, saying how much he enjoyed the office culture, showing he has meshed well with the other optometrists and enjoys the light-hearted environment of the workplace. Originally from Sydney, he studied optometry at the University of New South Wales. His move north came after a rural placement where he was encouraged to get in touch. After a phone call with Travis Cauchi the practice manager and co-owner, he decided to take a chance, packed everything up and thought, “Why not give it a go?” In practice, one of his favourite pieces of equipment is the slit lamp, which gives a magnified 3D view of the interior structures of the eye and allows him to closely examine eye anatomy and detect potential eye disease. He has a strong interest in picking up and managing eye disease, particularly in a regional setting where access to specialist care can be limited. He enjoys working closely with visiting ophthalmologists and doing his best to manage patients locally when travel is difficult. He sees professional development as something that happens every day, learning through experience and exposure to a wide variety of cases. While most of his patients are elderly, they are also his favourites. He enjoys their life stories, their humour and the genuine appreciation they show, which he finds incredibly rewarding. Outside of work, he enjoys exploring local waterfalls, travelling to Cairns and Townsville, and playing basketball with the local community. He is rarely without his film camera and considers himself more of a beach person, happy to sit by the water for hours.
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The Queensland Government has delivered its first major update to crocodile management in almost a decade. The new plan prioritises community safety, with increased patrols and an expansion of removal zones. It represents a commonsense approach to crocodile management. The Government’s Queensland Crocodile Management Plan puts human safety first and was developed with feedback from communities in North and Far North Queensland, including Ingham. The plan will implement increased crocodile management measures, including more patrols in high-risk areas and expanded removal zones. This evidence-based strategy demonstrates the Government’s commitment to listening to local communities and has been shaped by expert recommendations and extensive scientific research. Key changes for Ingham: Tyto Wetlands in Ingham to be upgraded to an Active Removal Zone, with the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service to undertake proactive patrols of this area and any crocodile found to be removed. Regional communities will continue to be consulted on the plan, with a designated four-week annual consultation period and updates made on a rolling basis. A mandatory review will be conducted every five years to ensure the plan continues to reflect the needs of the communities it impacts. The Government will also continue to remove crocodiles from the wild that pose a threat to public safety. Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa said the people of his electorate voted for change, and he was proud to deliver it in his first week as local Member. “Hinchinbrook now has a seat at the government table and work has already begun to deliver the fresh start we promised – starting with a new crocodile management plan that puts the safety of people first in Ingham,” Mr Chiesa said. “Upgrading Tyto Wetlands to an Active Removal Zone is the commonsense approach that’s needed and has been lacking for far too long under the former Government.” Mayor of Hinchinbrook regional council, Ramon Jayo, said it was a practical step to protect the area but to remain Crocwise. "TYTO Wetlands and the surrounding precinct remain one of our most popular destinations. While crocodiles are a natural part of life in North Queensland, proactive management is essential to keep visitors safe. Recent changes by the Queensland Government will allow for increased patrols and the targeted removal of crocodiles that pose a risk to the community. Crocodiles are part of our environment, so staying Crocwise is about using common sense—be alert near waterways, keep your distance, and never take chances."
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One of the Australian Army’s largest support battalions has opened its expansive workshops to local schools, aiming to inspire the next generation of recruits.
Approximately 250 high school students from Townsville, Ayr, Ingham, and Tully attended the open day in October. Among them were Indigenous students from the Clontarf Foundation.
Students had the opportunity to meet ADF career specialists and speak directly with 3CSSB personnel while touring some of the largest mechanical workshops and military supply warehouses in the country.
They also engaged with cutting-edge drone technology and participated in physical fitness training sessions.
The 3rd Combat Service Support Battalion (3CSSB), based at Lavarack Barracks in Townsville, plays a critical role in supporting the 3rd Brigade with essential transport, supply, and maintenance services—enabling the Brigade to move, train, and fight effectively.
With more than 500 officers and soldiers across over 40 employment categories, 3CSSB is actively supporting Australian Defence Force (ADF) Careers to attract new recruits to join the ADF by highlighting some of its roles, including vehicle mechanics and operators, fuel and cargo specialists, electronics technicians, and more.
3CSSB Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Jason Long, said the event helped open young minds to career paths they may not have previously considered.
“There’s a wide range of benefits to pursuing a logistics role in the military,” LTCOL Long said.
“But you also gain trade qualifications with civilian equivalencies, giving you the flexibility to transition into employment beyond the military.”
“We need skilled people to maintain these platforms and ensure our capabilities will be up to meeting whatever challenge is thrown at us. Townsville is a key garrison city with a strong defence and industrial base. These trade qualifications offer individuals the chance to build lasting careers right here in the region.”
Key trades showcased during the open day included recovery mechanics, vehicle technicians, electronics technicians, and material technicians—all currently in high demand as the 3rd Brigade prepares for growth.
ADF Careers Senior Recruiting Officer, Major Peter Cherry, said it is an exciting time to join the ADF in Army logistics.
“Events like this show the community the breadth of roles that the ADF has to offer and the opportunities that come with a career in the ADF,” MAJ Cherry said.
For more information on ADF Careers and pathways such as the Gap Year program, visit adfcareers.gov.au or call 13 19 01
On Wednesday, 5 November 2025, Cardwell State School students visited the Cardwell RSL Sub Branch for a sausage sizzle and a talk about Remembrance Day. The students enjoyed the change of venue and the comfort of the air-conditioning, and their knowledge of our military history was impressive.
The following day, Thursday, 6 November, Kennedy State School visited the Cardwell RSL for their own sausage sizzle.
All three local schools have also entered the Queensland RSL-sponsored “Draw to Remember” program, creating military-themed artwork on footpaths and other surfaces.
(Contributed with thanks by Robert Lang, President of the Cardwell RSL Sub Branch)
Construction works have begun as the Ingham Health Service prepares for the installation of its new computed tomography (CT) scanner.
Director of nursing Janine Johnson said it was an exciting time for the health service as the CT installation project kicked off.
“We’re very excited for the CT scanner to be installed as it will be the first publicly available scanner for residents of the Hinchinbrook region,” she said.
“We anticipate that approximately 1,200 scans will be performed by this machine each year, saving our patients from travelling far from home for life-saving medical imaging.”
Hospital staff and visitors are advised to be aware of construction works, as they may affect the way they usually enter the building.
“The walkway from the public car park to the Community and main admin entrances will be closed for the next six to eight weeks,” Ms Johnson said.
“We’d recommend visitors accessing the hospital via the main entrance on McIlwraith St.
“For those that need to access the emergency department, parking is available on the grassed and bitumen car park at the rear of the building, near the ED entrance.”
Ms Johnson also cautioned visitors and staff to be aware of construction works as they came in and out of the car park.
“Please obey and observe all traffic instructions for the safety of all,” she said.
The Ingham Health Service CT Scanner project is expected to be completed mid-next year.
Cardwell Meals on Wheels Inc. 44th Annual General Meeting was held on 16/10/25 at Cardwell RSL. Terry & Mamiko catered for our Annual Dinner and the meal was delicious. It was well attended by volunteers, clients and the kitchen staff and Winston Boysen from Churches of Christ Rockingham Home for the Aged as our special guests and following the formal procedures, everyone enjoyed a great evening of dining, fun and laughter.
During the evening, we held a minute silence for our long-serving President, Beverley Rose Altadonna, a position she held for 23 years, who passed away suddenly in September. Bev will be sadly missed by our organization.
Our Committee for 2025/26 – President Don Porter, Treasurer Allison Chellingworth, Secretary Lee
Porter, Committee Members – Arlie Robinson, John Newsome, Sue Hart, Bilie Fletcher, Mandy McGree, Carol Palmer, Katrina O’Brien, Peta Johnson, Lynn Crawford and Mandy Carucci.
Secretary Lee Porter thanked all the volunteers for their continuing support during the year.
Volunteers and clients were given a 2026 Calendar, which was produced by Stan Skeates, with amazing native animal photos from our volunteers Stan and Debbie Clancy.
If you would like to volunteer an hour or two a month, please contact our Convenor Lisa Cartwright on 0428980104 or email cardwellmow@hotmail.com
(Contributed with thanks by Lee Porter, Secretary of Cardwell Meals on Wheels)
It would be great to stand before you today knowing no wars are going on around the planet, but unfortunately, there are two going on in Africa, one still only partially settled in the Middle East, and of course, the ongoing war between Ukraine and Russia.
When the Armistice was signed between the Germans and the Allied forces at the 11th hour on the 11th day and the 11th month in 1918, this First World War was supposed to be the war to end all wars. In the intervening hours from the document of surrender being signed and the cessation of hostilities, 2,700 more casualties were inflicted. This was a complete waste of lives, just like the preceding 4 years.
On this 107th anniversary of the end of World War 1, we haven't as a species been able to live together without conflict, and with the constant development of new weaponry, especially artificial intelligence-based, nothing looks like changing any time soon.
This was not the intention of the victors, if there were any, as the Great War, as it was known, was deemed to be the war to end all wars. Those brave Sailors, Soldiers, and Airmen who gave their lives so we could live in peace and with freedom would be very disappointed that we still resort to war, which brings nothing but pain and suffering to the planet daily.
Today, we gather here to honour the sacrifice of all those who have served this country in times of peace and at war. Without their contributions in the defence of our way of life, none of us would be here today. It is a debt this nation can never repay, and having ceremonies like this one keeps their memories alive.
From school children to grandparents, for one minute of each year, we gather to Remember them. It's a very small sacrifice on our part, especially considering what those brave men and women gave for us.
It was interesting to read that the British Royal Artillery lost over 60,000 men in World War One; coincidentally, that's around the same figure that Australia lost. So it was a war that marked the rapid evolution of Artillery and the invention of the Maxim Machine Gun. Both these massed weapons inflicted a devastating impact on both sides of this war.
The genuine wish for peace by those signing the Armistice didn't last a generation, with the Second World War commencing in 1939. And Australia lost another 40,000 brave young souls.
Within 10 years of the cessation of both these wars, those numbers were doubled due to death from wounds or suicide.
Wouldn't it be wonderful if I could stand here before you next year and claim that there are no wars on our small planet, and no more mothers are weeping over lost children.
LEST WE FORGET
(Contributed with thanks by Robert Lang, President of the Cardwell RSL Sub Branch)
By Dr Bianka Vidonja Balanzategui
Who would have thought that in researching the origins of the naming of Markey Street, Ingham, which, according to a Hinchinbrook Shire Council document, Future Road Names - Hinchinbrook Shire Council, is named for Thomas Markey, I would discover an oversight in local RSL records and on the cenotaph, William John MARKEY.
According to the Irish-born soldiers of the AIF, Private William John MARKEY. No. 373 was born in County Antrim, Ireland, to William and Ellen Markey. He came to Australia as a 19-year-old and was working on the Herbert at Victoria Mill when he enlisted on 13 April 1915 to fight for Australia in World War 1. He embarked on 25 May 1915, in Brisbane on the Ascanius. He was a member of the 2nd Australian Division Light Trench Mortar Battery, Australian Infantry. He was killed in action on 5 August 1916, aged 23 years. His personal effects: a bible, wallet and photos were returned to his mother on his death.
Ingham-born Aircraftsman Class 1 Thomas Markey 152019, on the other hand, enlisted to fight in World War 2 in Townsville at the R.A.A.F Recruiting Unit, and formally joined up in Brisbane in 1943, at 18 years of age and was given the duties of aircraft hand. Thomas was born on April 26, 1925, to Patrick Markey and his wife, Jane (née Dunlop). His occupation was mail contractor, but he also worked in his father’s sawmill at Log Creek. He did not see overseas action but tragically died less than three weeks after enlistment in Greenslopes Hospital, Brisbane, on 4 August 1943, of an unspecified illness. He is buried in Lutwyche Cemetery, Brisbane. His name is located on panel 115 in the Commemorative Area at the Australian War Memorial. On both the cenotaph and the honour board in the Ingham RSL, Thomas Markey is recorded as a casualty of World War 2.
William John Markey is one of the 11 soldiers whom the All Souls Church, Victoria Estate is dedicated to. He is honoured at the Villers-Bretonneux Memorial and in the Commemorative Area Australian War Memorial - Panel 20. On his record held at the Australian War Memorial, it says that the cenotaph on which his name should appear is Herbert River, as that is where he enlisted. Since the RSL Board has been alerted of the omission, it has taken steps to rectify it. The Board is working towards having his name inserted on the RSL Honour Board and etched into the cenotaph. On Anzac Day 2025, William John Markey’s name was read out on the Roll of Honour.
This Remembrance Day, you may like to keep in your thoughts of the fallen not only Ingham boy Thomas Markey, but also William John Markey, an Irish boy, a long way from home, who lay down his life for his adopted country, Australia.
“Chugga-chugga, choo-choo, here comes the train, rollin’ towards the sugarcane!”
That’s the sound of a sweet new collaboration that’s taken off like a rocket, with George the Farmer and CANEGROWERS’ new song and video Sugarcane Train racking up more than 68,000 views in just three days.
The companion educational video, Learn About Sugarcane with George the Farmer, has also captured imaginations with over 65,000 views since Friday.
The upbeat tune Sugarcane Train takes kids on a musical ride from paddock to packet -showcasing how Queensland’s sugarcane is planted, grown, harvested and turned into everything from sugar to fuel, electricity and bioplastics.
“Sugarcane is one of Australia’s most vibrant, versatile and sustainable crops, and it’s great to see it come to life through George the Farmer’s unique storytelling,” said CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan.
“George’s new tune is fun, factual and might just get stuck in your head for days – and its incredible early success shows just how much kids love learning where their food and fibre come from.
"It also continues CANEGROWERS’ long-standing commitment to helping students and teachers understand our industry and its people.”
The Sugarcane Train song and educational video are the first in a new suite of George the Farmer resources developed in partnership with CANEGROWERS, with curriculum-aligned STEM materials for Prep to Year 4 students set for release in time for the 2026 school year.
These classroom materials are packed with fun, hands-on activities – from designing cane farms and building model harvesters to exploring how farming cares for the land.
“Kids can’t resist singing along – and Sugarcane Train is the perfect way to show how clever, creative and sustainable our farmers really are,” said George the Farmer creator Simone Kain.
Thank you to all growers who nominated Wilmar Grower Marketing as their GEI marketer for the 2026 season.
I would like to extend a warm welcome to the growing number of new growers who have chosen Wilmar for the first time. We don’t take any nomination, new or existing, for granted and remain committed to delivering strong returns, flexible products and personalised service to maintain your trust in this vital part of your business.
This year has been particularly challenging on the pricing front. Just 8 months ago, the March 26 futures contract was trading close to 20 USc/lb, with the AUD sugar price above $650/t. We are now facing a $465/t price and futures at 14 USc/lb.
Our recent October Pool results have reinforced our decision to relaunch the Managed Pool as the Managed Pool Plus (MPP), with the key difference being its extended time horizon for price management compared to the Production Risk Pool (PRP).
At the end of October, the MPP was forecast at $560/t Actual versus the PRP at $515/t. During the month, the 2025 Season price fell by about $70/t Actual, while the MPP dropped $40/t and the PRP $60/t, reflecting the MPP’s higher hedge profile.
The Grower Marketing team are fielding lots of enquiries from growers seeking guidance on sugar price outlooks. While no one can predict prices with certainty, our analysts expect global sugar stocks to build over the next 12 to 18 months due to large crops in India and Brazil, assuming normal weather.
Ethanol remains another key factor, with prices influenced by oil markets, relative feedstock prices, and government regulation. The recent dip in sugar prices below 14 USc/lb has already prompted some Brazilian mills to switch from sugar to ethanol, showing price signals are working to rebalance supply and demand.
Across all regions, growers are underpriced for the 2025 season, and even more so for 2026. While that is a challenge shared across the industry, it is important to look ahead. If you could lock in $525/t today for the 2025 season, would you take it? The 2028 season has that price available now, and pricing even a small portion early can help manage risk and secure a solid base as markets evolve.
By Victoria Velton
On Friday, 7 November, community members came together for a morning of hands-on environmental action. Volunteers planted native tree saplings that, once grown, will help shade out invasive parra grass and restore valuable habitat for the wetlands’ feathered and furry locals.
Participants gathered beside two ute-loads of native trees. Some drilled holes into the clay-like soil, others prepared the saplings, and everyone planted as many trees as they could in the heat, each contributing to a greener future.
The event highlighted the importance of community collaboration in tackling invasive species and supporting local biodiversity. It was a day not only about planting trees but also about nurturing long-term environmental stewardship in the region.
The planting site adjoined another successfully revegetated area that had been established in a previous project, continuing the creation of a vital wildlife corridor through the TYTO Wetlands.
If you love gardening and enjoying the great outdoors, the Green Thumbs Garden Club at the Community Garden, 100 McIlwraith Street, Ingham, is the place to be. This community garden is open to everyone, offering a space to plant, nurture, and harvest plants all for free.
The Green Thumbs Garden Club now meets every Friday from 2:30pm, inviting volunteers and community members to dig in, plant whatever they like, and enjoy some fresh air. No experience is needed, just bring some garden gloves if you like, and a willingness to get a little dirty.
The garden is also shared with local organisations including Mental Health Queensland, Selectability, and other community groups, who bring their clients to learn, garden, and connect. Children are welcome too, learning how to plant, water, and care for their own seedlings, and enjoying the harvest of their own fruits and vegetables once they’re ready.
The Green Thumbs Garden Club is run by The Hub, a not-for-profit organisation, and everything in the garden—from seeds and fertiliser to tools—is provided free of charge. The initiative also supports the community by helping address food scarcity, allowing anyone to take home fresh produce. All members of the public are welcome; simply contact the organisers to arrange a time and find out which garden beds are available.
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener, a curious beginner, or looking for a family-friendly outdoor activity, the Green Thumbs Garden Club is the place to dig in!
For more information, call the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre on (07) 4776 1822.
Bright, bold and full of personality, that’s the vibe this season at I Love Boutique, Ingham’s destination for fun, fashionable summer style. Located in the heart of town, the boutique is known for its ever-changing range of trendy clothing, accessories, and gifts that celebrate individuality and creativity.
With the heat of summer setting in, now’s the time to refresh your wardrobe with easy, stylish pieces that keep you cool and confident. Think funky, artistic oversized T-shirts, lightweight shorts, and breezy dresses in bold prints and flattering cuts. Each piece at I Love Boutique is carefully chosen for its unique look and relaxed fit, perfect for casual days, coastal weekends, or festive get-togethers.
Whether you’re drawn to vibrant colours, playful patterns, or soft neutral tones, the team at I Love Boutique can help you put together a look that’s distinctly yours. Their range is all about comfort without compromising on style, ideal for the laid-back North Queensland lifestyle.
Visit I Love Boutique, 66 Lannercost Street, Ingham, or shop their new arrivals online at shop.iloveboutique.com.au for all the latest arrivals and deals!
Step into the season looking effortlessly chic with the latest arrivals from Lisa Maree Boutique in Ingham. Known for their beautiful range of women’s fashion, shoes, and accessories, the boutique has become a go-to for locals who love modern styles with a touch of flair.
This summer, it’s all about staying cool while looking fabulous. Lisa Maree Boutique has a stunning collection of flowy dresses in eye-catching prints and flattering cuts, perfect for festive gatherings or lazy summer days. Oversized T-shirts and comfy mix-and-match shorts are also in stock, making it easy to build a relaxed yet stylish wardrobe for the heat of a North Queensland Christmas.
Whether you prefer bold statement pieces or simple elegance, the team at Lisa Maree Boutique can help you find just the right outfit. With their focus on quality, comfort, and style, you’ll walk away feeling confident and ready to take on the season in style.
Visit Lisa Maree Boutique, 60 Lannercost Street, Ingham, Monday to Friday 9am–5pm or Saturday 9am–12pm, and explore their full range of fashion for every occasion.
Petal & Beanz has officially changed its name to Cassowary Blooms & Coffee, marking an exciting new chapter for the much-loved local business.
The rebrand reflects a renewed focus on what the team does best: creating beautiful floral arrangements, serving quality coffee, and offering freshly made and blended juices to the Cassowary Coast community.
While the café will no longer serve food, it remains a welcoming space to relax, meet friends, or work online while enjoying coffee, juice, and the scent of freshly cut flowers.
Cassowary Blooms & Coffee continues to provide a full floral service, with pick-up and delivery available for fresh flowers and custom bouquets.
“Flowers for any occasion. Where there are flowers, there is love and healing,” says Eseta.
The team is also expanding its giftware range in time for Christmas, making it the perfect place to find thoughtful gifts and stunning native arrangements for loved ones this festive season.
Contact Cassowary Blooms & Coffee by calling (07) 4068 1780 or emailing CassowaryBlooms@gmail.com, and celebrate Christmas by giving your loved ones blooms that bring smiles.
Shop SportsPower Ingham this Christmas for all your family's active needs.
SportsPower Ingham has the perfect gifts to get the whole family active and outdoors this holiday season.
Make your backyard the ultimate play zone with high-performance 10 or 12-foot trampolines, perfect for kids to bounce and burn off energy. Challenge the family to a table tennis showdown for hours of laughter and friendly competition, ideal for all ages.
For fishing enthusiasts, Shimano has you covered with sunglasses, boot socks, tackle boxes, and mug-and-sock gift packs, all designed to suit anglers of every level.
Find gifts for every interest across the sporting and hobby world, at every level, beginner to pro, from exercise equipment and comfortable sportswear to items for fans to rep their favourite teams. Cowboys-themed footy? Check!
SportsPower Ingham also offers a huge range of gifts under $50. Think bright and colourful Wilson and Spalding basketballs, family games like dartboards, and backyard favourites, including beach cricket sets. There is something for everyone, making it easy to tick off every name on your Christmas list.
Visit SportsPower Ingham in-store at 57 Herbert Street, Ingham, or browse online at sportspower.com.au to see the full range of gifts to keep your family active, entertained, and smiling this Christmas.
It’s that time of year again, a few more moustaches around town, some half-grown, some glorious, all part of the same message: men’s mental health matters.
Movember is more than just a charity campaign. It’s a reminder that, for many men, mental health is still something that happens in silence. Too many blokes push through, bottle things up, or don’t know where to start when things feel off. And even when they’re ready to reach out, knowing who to go to can feel confusing.
So let’s talk about it — not just the why, but the where.
Your GP is often the best starting point. They know your overall health and can help rule out physical causes, start conversations about mental wellbeing, talk through medications if appropriate and put together a referral for Medicare-rebated sessions with the right person.
A counsellor can support you to work through life’s challenges, be it stress, relationships, grief, transitions, identity, or just feeling stuck. Counselling is often less clinical and more conversational, offering space to unpack what's going on in a way that feels safe.
A psychologist helps with mental health diagnoses and evidence-based therapy. They can support people experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, executive functioning issues, or patterns that are getting in the way of day-to-day life. You might also come across the provisional psychologist: this is someone who’s completed their studies and is now completing a supervised internship. They can offer excellent, affordable support under guidance from a fully registered psychologist.
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specialises in mental illness, especially when medications are needed, or symptoms are complex. A referral from your GP is required to see one.
There’s also support through local hospital teams and acute care services, especially when someone is in crisis or when there are concerns for safety. In Queensland, that’s 1300 MH CALL (1300 642 255).
At Tumbleweed Therapies, we know that men’s mental health doesn’t always show up as sadness. It often looks like anger. Exhaustion. Numbness. Withdrawal. Overwork. Or silence.
We’re here to help men reconnect with themselves, their mates, their values, and the things that matter. Therapy isn’t about fixing; it’s about making space to think, reset, and move forward.
So if you’re growing a mo, great! But let it be more than a fundraiser. Let it be a reminder to check in on yourself, your mates, your dad, your brother, and your son.
You don’t need to do it all alone.
Email intake@tumbleweedtherapies.com or call 07 4463 8679, inquire or check out our website and see how we can help www.tumbleweedtherapies.com.au
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