The CANEGROWERS Policy Council, which met in Brisbane last week, has recognised and congratulated sugar mill workers across Queensland for their efforts in delivering a smooth start to the 2025 crushing season.

CANEGROWERS has the unique ability to bring together grass roots farmers from each mill supply area across the state for this two-day meeting to discuss industry policy and strategy. Amongst a range of long- and short-term priorities discussed there was a common view that one month into the 2025 crush, in most areas it has been a positive start.

CANEGROWERS Chair Owen Menkens said favourable weather has played a role, but it’s clear that the hard work and investment during the off-season maintenance period is paying off.

“We know the last five years have been incredibly tough for everyone in the industry, with persistent challenges in milling reliability,” Mr Menkens said.

“That’s why it’s so important to call it as we see it — and right now, mill workers across the state deserve credit for a job well done in getting this season off to a solid start.”

CEO Dan Galligan echoed the sentiment, acknowledging that while the season hasn’t been without its usual workforce challenges, the collaborative effort across the industry is what drives success.

“Growers, harvesters and millers, all rely on each other,” Mr Galligan said.

“When we work well together, we are all stronger — and the start to this season shows what’s possible when we pull in the same direction.”

The Policy Council agreed that continued cooperation, transparency and mutual respect across all parts of the supply chain will be essential to maintaining momentum and tackling the inevitable challenges ahead.

“At CANEGROWERS, we believe in telling it straight,” Mr Menkens said.

“And this season, the story starts with a positive tone — thanks to the people who made it happen.”

The Australian Government is seeking input from community and industry stakeholders on the popular On Farm Connectivity Program to ensure it is delivering the best possible outcomes for primary producers through the upcoming third round.

Through over $30 million in rebates provided over the first two rounds, thousands of primary producers have been able to extend connectivity and take advantage of connected machinery and sensor technology.

The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, Sport and the Arts has commenced public consultation on design aspects of Round 3, ahead of opening applications later this year.

The department is requesting feedback on options to adjust the Program to ensure opportunities are optimised for primary producers to address connectivity gaps, particularly in light of the unprecedented demand in Round 2.

Proposed changes to the Program including refining the scope of equipment eligible for rebate, and streamlining processes by providing rebates directly to primary producers.

The public consultation builds on discussions already underway with state and Commonwealth government agencies and industry representatives, including the National Farmers’ Federation, as well as feedback already received following delivery of the first two rounds.

The Government has allocated $53 million across all three rounds of the Program over 2023-24 to 2025-26, as part of the Government’s Better Connectivity Plan for Regional and Rural Australia.

For more information and to have your say on the proposed changes for Round 3, visit the On Farm Connectivity Program Round 3 consultation page. Consultation closes on Tuesday 26 August 2025.

The Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) will be conducting a planned burn in Orpheus Island National Park (NP) as part of ongoing fire management operations. The planned burn will be carried out using aerial ignition and will not impact day use or camping in the National Park.

Due to the complexity of the operation, the burn will take place on a suitable day between Wednesday 23rd July and Thursday 7th August, subject to weather and operational conditions. As a result of the planned burn, smoke may be seen in nearby areas of Forrest Beach, Lucinda and the Bruce Highway.

If visiting Orpheus Island NP, observe all signs, barriers, and directions from QPWS Rangers and other staff and never enter closed areas. Avoid driving through smoke where possible and be aware of firefighters working in the area.

Planned burns are vital in promoting ecological health, biodiversity, and the conservation of species and habitats. They also aim to mitigate the risk and intensity of bushfires and their potential impacts on communities, infrastructure, parks, and forests.

Planned burns are highly weather-dependent, generally requiring milder conditions and minimal wind.

These same weather conditions can also allow smoke to accumulate and linger until weather conditions change and winds assist in dispersing the smoke.

If smoke affects you; stay indoors and close windows and doors, and keep respiratory medication close by.

Public safety is the highest consideration in all QPWS fire management activities. To find out more, visit the Qld Government's Parks and forests 'Fire Management' webpage.

Live air quality data, and information on smoke and dust health actions, can be found on the Queensland Government’s website: www.qld.gov.au/environment/management/monitoring/air

You can stay updated with local QPWS fire activities by visiting: parks.desi.qld.gov.au/park-alerts

Generations of Expertise

The Felix Reitano family firm is one of the oldest family businesses operating in Ingham, having served the Hinchinbrook district since 1923.

Today, Felix (the third) and his son, Felix the Fourth (Peter), can assist you with all your real estate needs – whether residential, commercial or rural. Both are licensed General Auctioneers.

Judy Reitano is the company’s Head Property Manager. Alongside Tracey Shepherd, Rachel Hallam and Joelene Brosnan, they spend many hours assisting property owners and tenants with their properties.

Margaret, Felix’s sister, heads the furniture division. After Felix Reitano Real Estate sells you your home, Margaret and the furniture team of Gerry Scuderi, Nigel Newman and Dylan Hughes, can help with new and second-hand furniture, bedding sales, removals and deliveries.

The real estate business is an Accredited Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ) agency. Felix was recently made an REIQ Life Member and was awarded an Order of Australia Medal in the 2025 King’s Birthday Honours list.

“We are proud to have been a family business in our district for 100 years,” expressed Peter Reitano, “and we thank all our loyal customers who have supported us for so long.”

The Reitano family and their staff are ready to assist you at their showrooms at 109 Cartwright Street, Ingham, or you can phone them on (07) 4776 5007. For after-hours enquiries, contact Peter on 0407 167 108 or Felix on 0417 641 830.

Beaumont Tiles has been creating dream spaces for over 65 years, and we have the tools to help you make stunning choices with Australia’s biggest range of stylish tiles, beautiful new hard flooring and bathroomware.

For homeowners across Hinchinbrook and the Cassowary Coast, many travelling over an hour to visit, BeVisualLive is a smart way to get a head start. It helps you refine your ideas, save time, and make your store visit more focused and productive.

Visit beaumont-tiles.com.au/roomvo and start designing from the comfort of your home. Simply upload a photo of your space or choose a sample room, then explore a world of tiles, hard flooring and bathroomware combinations.  Rotate tiles, play with patterns, adjust grout colours and widths, and compare different styles side by side — all on your screens.

When you’ve landed on a look you love, simply click the Free Design Consultation button and connect with the friendly team at Beaumont Tiles Ingham or record your ideas and just come into the store. We’ll help you turn your concept into reality, offering expert advice and product samples to match your design.

And remember, www.tiles.com.au are online previews and only a guide. To truly appreciate the colours, textures, and quality, make sure you visit us in-store and see your selections up close.

These reliable products are ready to help you get the job done. Pick them up today at Mitre10 at 100 Herbert Street, Ingham.

$23.50 – Dulux Renovation Range Grout Pen
Brighten up tired grout lines! Whether it’s the bathroom, kitchen, or laundry, this precision applicator delivers smooth, consistent coverage to stained or discoloured grout. The durable formula adheres well and resists wear, giving your tiles a clean, uniform look without the need for regrouting.

$78.50 – Dulux Renovation Range Primer 1L
Prepare your surfaces properly with a primer that's specially designed for vinyl, laminate, and plastic-wrapped cabinetry. This water-based primer improves adhesion and ensures a lasting finish on benchtops, drawers, cupboards, and even tiles. Simple to apply and ideal for use with other Dulux Renovation Range products!

$89.50 – Dulux Renovation Range Clear Coat 1L
Seal and protect your hard work with this water-based interior coating that adds a durable, chip- and stain-resistant layer to your topcoat. Designed for benchtops and tiles, it delivers a washable, long-lasting finish that maintains the fresh look of your renovation.

$5.95 – Selleys Original Sugar Soap 750ml
This powerful liquid cleaner is perfect for prepping surfaces before painting. The concentrated formula cuts through grease and grime and can be diluted to make up to 30 litres of cleaning solution or used neat for tough spots. Safe on most surfaces, it’s ideal for walls, floors, laminates, tiles and more.

On Thursday 10 July, the Cardwell RSL became a vital hub of information and support as more than 35 residents and service representatives gathered for the Cardwell Community Rebuild Info Session. Organised by Centacare FNQ, the evening brought together key organisations supporting North Queenslanders affected by the 2025 floods and now in the rebuilding phase.

The session was hosted in partnership with Centacare’s Disaster Recovery and Resilience Hub, the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC), Legal Aid Queensland, ICAN Financial Counselling, Community Recovery, Rural Financial Counselling Service, Tully Support Centre, and Cardwell RSL. Food and the venue were generously provided by the Cardwell RSL, with Centacare coordinating staff and logistics.

Attendees heard from expert speakers on a range of critical topics; including builder and contractor engagement, legal support for insurance negotiations, financial counselling, and access to grants through Queensland’s disaster recovery hubs. Mental health support was also available through Centacare staff.

The canteen area was transformed into an informal networking space where residents could speak directly with service providers following the presentations. Printed materials and note-taking tools helped residents retain key information, while discussions continued well after the formal part of the event concluded.

This session marked an important step in helping flood-affected residents navigate the complexities of rebuilding. Resources and advice were tailored to meet the practical needs of homeowners facing decisions around repairs, legal options, insurance processes, and financial assistance.

"The knowledge passed on to all attendees was invaluable. This, in turn, would be spread throughout the community. We are grateful for the information presented by these very professional instructors. And a special thanks to Patrick Sim for organising the event." - Robert Lang, President of the Cardwell RSL Sub-Branch

Future community sessions are already being explored, with an emphasis on topics such as navigating builder quotes and assessments, insurance timelines, and accessing temporary accommodation during extended rebuilds. The goal remains clear: support Cardwell locals with the knowledge, tools, and connections they need to confidently move forward.

With organisations working together and residents showing resilience and determination, Cardwell’s recovery is well underway, and this session is just one example of community-led progress in action.

This inspiring collection of artworks celebrates the creativity, reflection, and technical skill of students from Gilroy Santa Maria College. Across year levels, students have explored identity, community, and the world around them through painting, responding to both personal and shared experiences. From self-expression to collaborative storytelling, each piece reveals a thoughtful engagement with contemporary art practices.

Artwork 1: Shinae Johnson, Self Portrait (2025)
The Year 11 and 12 Visual Arts in Practice students completed a unit in which they created paintings to explore and represent themselves. Shinae elected to respond figuratively and created a self-portrait encircled by flowers.

Artworks 2 and 3: Wings by Summer Christopher and Fish by Kaitlyn Rapista
Although the final images produced by Summer and Kaitlyn are radically different, both paintings were produced in response to the same stimulus and prompt. The Year 10 Visual and Media Arts students created their paintings by first exploring the arts practice of a contemporary artist, then applying the artist's approach to their paintings. Each successive layer was created in response to a different contemporary artist. The students effectively created their finished works by synthesising the arts practices and processes of a range of artists, including Jenny Saville, Sush Machida, Alex Couwenberg, and Cecily Brown.

Artwork 4: Flood – Year 9 Visual and Media Arts Collaborative Painting
Due to the disruption to regular schooling caused by the flooding at the start of the year, the Year 9 Visual Arts program was changed to allow the students to respond meaningfully to the situation through their artwork. The Year 9s worked collaboratively to create a painting based on the flood event, using the multi-canvas approach of Australian artist Imants Tillers. The main image depicts the flooded causeway at Forrest Beach. Beneath the image, and visible up close, are photographic images of the flood collected by the students. They also incorporated text from news articles about the flooding that were published at that time.

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HUB Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre has secured grants to develop 3 residential housing complexes, with construction well under way. The senior living units are designed to foster community connection and improve access to local services, centrally located, these homes aim to provide safer, more comfortable living for seniors throughout the Hinchinbrook Shire.

The first release of six one-bedroom units is expected to be completed in August, with another set finalised in October. A further three units will be built in Halifax later this year.

This is a call-out for eligible seniors to apply now.

To qualify, applicants must be Queensland residents with an approved Social Housing Application and meet senior eligibility criteria. The August release focuses on supporting Indigenous seniors to create a culturally safe and connected retirement community. However, the following housing rounds are open to all eligible seniors, with a range of housing options including studio and one or two-bedroom units to suit different lifestyles.

This initiative is about more than just housing. It’s about bringing people out of isolation, improving access to care and services, and creating small, supportive living communities where seniors can thrive.

To check eligibility and apply for social housing assistance, visit the QLD Gov website, scan the QR code, or speak to the helpful staff at the HUB.

Applicants must meet certain criteria, including citizenship or residency, income and asset limits, and demonstrate a need for secure and suitable housing. Meeting these requirements doesn’t guarantee a home, but it does ensure you're included in future planning and support.

The HUB is encouraging all eligible seniors to apply for these units, even if you’re not sure yet as this helps demonstrate demand and support future community housing projects.

Need help applying? Speak directly with the Department of Housing this Thursday between 10am and 3pm at the Hub, 52–54 McIlwraith Street, Ingham. For more information, phone (07) 4776 1822

Nature's Towering Masterpiece

Tucked away in the lush rainforests of Girringun National Park, just 51km south-west of Ingham, Wallaman Falls is the highest, permanent, single-drop waterfall in Australia. This stunning natural wonder sees Stony Creek plunge a dramatic 268 metres into a misty gorge, often framed by rainbows that add to its ethereal beauty. As part of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area, Wallaman Falls lies within one of the world's oldest rainforest ecosystems and is rich in both biodiversity and Indigenous cultural significance.

Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views from two accessible lookouts, picnic beneath towering trees, or spend the night under the stars at the well-equipped camping area. Wildlife abounds; from platypus and water dragons to possums, bandicoots and the elusive southern cassowary.

For those keen to explore on foot, the easy 800m Banggurru Walk meanders along Stony Creek and offers a family-friendly taste of rainforest life, including a refreshing swimming hole at its end. More adventurous hikers can tackle the Djyinda Walk, a 4km return trail that descends into the gorge, revealing awe-inspiring views of the falls from below. While swimming is not allowed at the base due to cultural and safety reasons, the journey is well worth the effort.

Wallaman Falls is also a photographer’s dream, with dramatic landscapes, shifting light, and abundant wildlife offering endless inspiration. As night falls, the forest comes alive with nocturnal creatures and the sound of frogs echoing through the trees. It’s a destination that rewards those who linger, listen, and truly connect.

Facilities include sheltered picnic areas, toilets, showers, and wheelchair-accessible features (with assistance), ensuring comfort for day-trippers and campers alike. As you wander through the ancient rainforest, you’ll encounter vibrant plant life, from weeping bottlebrushes and towering eucalypts to lush palms and moss-draped trees.

Wallaman Falls is part of the traditional lands of the Warrgamaygan Aboriginal People. 'Nginba Warrgamaygan Ngarji'. The Warrgamaygan People hope you enjoy your visit and respect this sacred place.

Whether you're chasing waterfalls, wildlife or tranquillity, Wallaman Falls offers a remarkable escape into nature at its most powerful and pristine.

The Gill family, who had long lived on Goold Island, were forced to relocate after a cyclone in 1918 blew their house over; they then moved the house to the Haven on Hinchinbrook Island. Macushla Point on Hinchinbrook Island was named after the boat owned by Emily Lyon from Herbert River, and in 1929 the Cardwell Shire Council offices moved to Tully. During the 1930s the Lyons family constructed two cottages and laid concrete foundations for tents at Macushla Point. In 1932, most of Hinchinbrook Island was declared a National Park, further cementing the area’s environmental significance, and the Girramay people have long been recognised as the Traditional Owners of the Cardwell area. In 1933, the population within the Cardwell Shire Council area surged by 1,200 per cent to 4,416 due to the growth of the sugar industry and the establishment of a mill in Tully.

The early 1930s also saw the construction of four small cabins with thatched roofs at the Haven on the western side of Hinchinbrook Island, and in 1937 work began on constructing the Kirrama Range road to provide access to the timbers in the Kirrama Range area. This road opened in 1941; however, it was later closed following Cyclone Larry. In the late 1930s and early 1940s, Frank Lewis ran cattle and operated a small casual resort at the Haven on Hinchinbrook Island. In 1944, experiments in gas warfare using Australian Army personnel were carried out on the Brook Islands.

By a retired cane farmer

There was movement at the farm shed
when the word was passed around,
That the price of export sugar had fallen to the ground.
As farmers we are takers, we have no right to choose,
Sometimes we come out winners and then sometimes we lose.

They say we are complainers but we’re lovers of the land,
All we ask is a fair go and perhaps a helping hand.
The lifestyle is the greatest, you nominate your hours.
Sometimes we work from dawn to dark and
sometimes between the showers.

We’ve built up some fond memories as
we’ve journeyed through the years.
We also have some hard ones that reduce a man to tears.
We recall the young gun cutters, the rails, the knives, the file.
You couldn’t keep up or catch them to within a country mile.

They came across from distant lands,
they stayed around a while,
they left behind a legacy and they made the farmers smile.
The hours they worked were long and hard
and what they earned was small.
They were the backbone of the industry
and they still stand strong and tall.

Then came the 515 harvester, the damn thing wouldn’t go!
After working twelve long hard hours
only thirty bins you had to show.
But things are all done different now, it’s done within the hour.
All the farmer does now is go home and take a shower.

Along comes the contractor, he is looking for more dough.
“The price of things is rising, I can’t survive you know.
This is the price I’m asking that’s what you have to pay,
You take it or you leave it, we’ll talk another day.”

So then the tracks start turning, it's money in the bank.
We get pain upon delivery, the mills we have to thank.
Then the bills start rolling in, they’re
coming, coming thick and fast.
That’s when you have to hope and pray
the money’s going to last.

Along come all the greenies but they’re not all that green.
They say they’re out to save the world
but they’re not all that they seem.
They say that all the farmers are endangering the reef,
We’ll not take it laying down let’s hand them out some beef.

We’ve got all this new technology, GPS and traffic lane.
But with all this increased knowledge
we seem to grow less cane.
We have all of these computers and also the spreadsheet,
but the bottom line is always we have to make ends meet.

Then there are the politicians with
their theories and their tales,
“You’ve never had it so good” but something jumped the rails.
You’re told to work hard and smart,
that’s what they have to say.
While there are more inquiries, they
get an increase in their pay.

We struggle with diseases, RSD and smut and rust.
We have numbers of varieties but in many we can’t trust.
We battle with the elements, sometimes the rain won’t come.
We get long hot summer days and lots and lots of sun.

Then you look to heaven and pray the rain will fall.
You take a look around your farm, the crop it will be small,
and then the heavens open and the rain just tumbles down.
The rivers are all running, there is water all around.

The cane is going under and you can’t get to town,
“We’ll pack a few belongings and head for higher ground!”
There are the Larrys and the Yasis with wind and driving rain,
you estimate the damage and you try to wear the pain.

That’s when you get up and learn to start
again with faith and trust and hope.
With heart in hand and courage, we pray that we will cope.
You look around the district with farmers old and grey.
They can’t afford to get out and they can’t afford to stay.

The children have all but left home,
they've left behind the land.
They don’t want to build their home life upon the shifting sand.
They’re gone away to better things, their futures to explore,
some headed for the cities and some to distant shore.

They leave behind them this fair land,
they shall return no more.
So we’ll work a little harder to keep the banker from the door.
You begin to wonder was it all worthwhile,
all the anguish and the pain.
The striving and the hardship for oh, so little gain.

And then the time will come around when
you knock on heaven’s door.
You no longer have to worry if the price falls through the floor.
Then you ask yourself the question, “Did I really pass the test?”
You heard the voice say, “Welcome home my
son, you’re the best of all the best!"

"You’re a cane grower!”

The Author wished to remain anonymous, and we thank them for their contribution to the Hinchinbrook Life as it echoes many of the lives of our regions growers.

Kelton is a striking ginger-and-white gentleman with a personality as neat as his perfectly kept coat. Your quiet companion with a heart of gold! He takes great pride in staying clean and keeps his space just as tidy, a true house-proud cat!

While Kelton isn’t a fan of being picked up, he more than makes up for it with his gentle presence and affectionate nature. He enjoys simply being near you, sharing quiet moments, and offering soft head-butts while you relax on the couch. This food-motivated fellow will gladly accept snacks from your hand, making every interaction rewarding.

Though cuddles may not be his thing, Kelton’s calm, low-maintenance charm brings a comforting companionship to any home. If you're looking for a sweet, dignified soul who offers quiet affection and a touch of elegance, Kelton could be your perfect match.

To meet Kelton, fill out an enquiry form at: www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html

Adoption Fee: $210
DOB: 15/07/2023
Sex: Male
Breed: Domestic Short Hair (DSH)
Colour: Ginger and White
Kid Friendly: Yes
Cat Friendly: Yes
Dog Friendly: Untested
Indoors/Outdoors: Indoors only

Adoption fee includes: Desexing, microchipping, up-to-date vaccinations, flea/tick and intestinal worm treatment.

The first season of senior squash for 2025 ended with close games in the grand final match ups. In the A Men final, underdogs, Fantome came from fourth place to secure a 2 to 1 win over favourites, Hinchinbrook.

Fantome captain, Liam Fascetti defeated Hinchinbrook captain, Jordan Di Bella 3–0. Matthew Giliberto (Hinchinbrook) defeated Jason Erba (Fantome) 4-1. Oliver Flynn (Fantome) defeated Rodney Fascetti (Hinchinbrook) 3-2.

The A Mixed also saw an upset with Turkish Delights securing a 3-1 win over Dream.

Turkish Delights captain, Beau Lepinath defeated Dream captain, Brendan Seri 3-0. Carter Hague (Turkish Delights) defeated Nigel Newman (Dream) 3-1. Niko Dillon (Dream) defeated Oliver Hoyle (Turkish Delights) 3-0. Ashton Hoyle (Turkish Delights) defeated Clint Seri (Dream) 3-2.

Season 2 begins this week with A Men on Tuesday night and A/B Mixed on Thursday night. Come along and enjoy a great sport!

Contributed with thanks by Kim Di Bella.

Palm Creek #82 - 27 participants.
"Foggy but fabulous start to the weekend!"
New Faces: 4 | PBs: 7
Fastest time: 20:26 | Finishers time: 50:35
Volunteers: Sandra Coco, Ted Cogger, Bridgette Duffy, Matteo Mancuso, Donna Panzenbock

Cardwell #344 - 25 participants.
"Well done to the 25 participants who took to our beautiful foreshore this morning. Congratulations to youngsters Jake and Phoebe on taking the win today. Welcome to all the visitors and first-timers."
New Faces: 11 | PBs: 2
Fastest time: 21:06 | Finishers time: 49:00
Volunteers: Kellie Ball, Judith Clarke, Terry Curtin, Jan Ferguson, Nate Ihle, Kerry Snell, Ward Weare

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Photos sourced from Cardwell and Palm Creek Parkrun Facebook pages.