Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Fancy learning something new, making a few friends and giving your brain a workout? Tully resident Veronica Papenga is inviting locals to pull up a chair and try their hand at Scopa, a traditional Italian card game that brings people together for fun, friendship and a taste of Italian culture. Veronica grew up in Brisbane, learning Scopa from her father and grandfather, or Nonno, and watching family members gather around the card table. But her family's connections to Far North Queensland run deep. Her Italian grandparents emigrated from Italy and worked as sugarcane cutters in the Innisfail district, while her parents first knew each other as children through a family friendship that began at the Silkwood Hotel. Eighteen months ago, Veronica and her husband relocated from Brisbane when he secured a job at Tully Sugar Mill. Now, with their first baby due any day, her parents are considering moving back to the Far North to be closer to family. And Veronica is keeping family traditions alive by sharing them with her new community. Scopa, meaning 'to sweep' in Italian, is played with a special deck of 40 cards featuring four suits – coins, cups, clubs and swords. It's a game of numbers, memory and strategy, where players collect cards by matching values or adding them together. There's also Briscola, another popular Italian card game using the same deck, but with different rules, scoring and a trump suit, offering another challenge for those keen to learn. For Veronica, these games are much more than entertainment. "I've grown up playing Scopa. It means a lot to me because it's part of my family," she said. “I still play every week.” She's even used the game to help children learn English while working as an au pair in Italy. Veronica has already introduced Scopa to a small group at Nonna Angelina's in Innisfail and recently organised a gathering at Plenty in Mission Beach. Even with a newborn imminent, she's planning more opportunities for locals to get together and learn the games, with dates and venues to be announced. Young or old, Italian or not, everyone's welcome to pull up a chair and try their hand! To find out about upcoming gatherings, follow Scopa Club on Facebook or call Veronica on 0449 149 700 – but perhaps leave a message, as she might have her hands full with a new arrival! Enjoying a taste of Italy around the table at Plenty, Mission Beach. From left, Giuseppe and Toni Santomingo, Lois Dawes and Veronica Papenga. Photo credit: Helen Cook
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For Annette Swaine, celebrating the first anniversary of Professionals Innisfail is about more than business success. It's about building a team, creating opportunities and contributing to the community she calls home. Annette and husband David opened Professionals Innisfail on 1 October 2025, transforming a building purchased as an investment into a thriving real estate agency. Twelve months later, the agency has grown from two staff to a busy team servicing properties from Babinda to Cardwell. Annette specialises in residential property and land, while David focuses on commercial property and business sales. The agency has expanded its property management portfolio, acquiring rent rolls from First National and Babinda Real Estate. Today, the team includes three full-time property managers, administration support and salesperson Segrid, who recently joined the agency. For Annette, building the right team has been as important as growing the business. “The biggest thing for me has been to build a culture within our office,” she said. Receptionist Taylah is a perfect example of that commitment. “She's now undertaking real estate qualifications and preparing to move into property management,” Annette said. “It's good to help staff grow into what they want to do.” Annette’s approach reflects a colourful career spanning more than 20 years in the Queensland Police Service, retiring as a sergeant, before operating a fishing charter and boat hire businesses in Cardwell and Mission Beach. Fishing remains her greatest passion to this day. “When I retired, I said I was retiring to go fishing. And literally I was!” But with those businesses behind her, these days, she's happiest escaping onto the water for recreation whenever the weather and workload allows. “I suppose it's more therapy than anything,” she said. But Annette's community involvement doesn't stop at real estate. Having previously stood for state parliament, she's now spearheading the revival of the Innisfail Chamber of Commerce after years of inactivity. With more than 20 members already involved and an annual general meeting planned for January, she's optimistic about rebuilding a strong voice for local businesses. For Annette, whether mentoring staff, helping people find homes or supporting fellow business owners, it's about creating opportunities – and hopefully finding the occasional weekend to go fishing. Celebrating a successful first year in business The Professionals office on Edith St, Innisfail. From left: Segrid, Lynne, Barb, Terri, Taylah and Annette. Photo credit: Helen Cook
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After three years of exhibitions, workshops and fundraising, Tully Arts and Cultural Precinct Inc is making a determined bid to secure a permanent home in the former Visitor Information Centre. At the heart of the campaign is local artist, researcher and cultural advocate Dr Valerie Keenan, whose lifelong passion for art, history and Indigenous culture has helped inspire the community initiative. The vision is to transform the Bruce Highway premises into a year-round cultural hub, featuring a public gallery, heritage displays, creative workshops and a Keeping Place for Aboriginal cultural objects. The organisation has occupied part of the building for nearly two years and has lodged an expression of interest with Cassowary Coast Regional Council to secure its future. For committee chair Valerie, it's an opportunity to create something she believes Tully has needed for decades. Born and raised in the district, Valerie remembers a thriving local arts community, including her mother, Gladys Henry, the first female councillor for the Cardwell Shire Council and an artist with a deep interest in local Aboriginal culture. “There were more opportunities for artists in my mother’s day, but by the time I left school, there were very few pathways into the arts,” Valerie recalled. It wasn't until her 40s, when she was living in the Torres Strait, that she began formal arts studies, initially through Flying Arts, which delivered workshops to regional and remote communities. She subsequently studied visual arts, museum studies and ethnography, completing a PhD exploring historical correspondence, collecting practices and connections to country. Her academic interests were deeply personal. James Cook University's Objects of Possession research project documents her mother's collection of 588 Aboriginal cultural objects, acquired by the Aboriginal Arts Board in 1979. Developed through relationships with Jirrbal, Girramay and Gulngay people, the collection represents an important record of the region's cultural heritage. Valerie's professional career strengthened those connections. For 11 years she worked with Girringun Aboriginal Art Centre in Cardwell, supporting First Nations artists and bringing their work to national and international audiences. Her contribution was recognised with a Museums & Galleries Queensland Achievement Award in 2019. Her research also took her to Norway to investigate nineteenth-century naturalist Carl Lumholtz's collections from the Herbert River region, culminating in an exhibition and publication. Yet despite these international experiences, Valerie's focus has always returned to Tully. "My work, my life has always been about this place," she said. In 2023, with encouragement from Shane Greenwood, then manager of the Tully Support Centre, Valerie brought together local artists and community members to explore establishing a dedicated arts precinct. Around 70 people attended the first public meeting, leading to the establishment of an incorporated organisation. Early supporters included respected Gulngay Traditional Owner and artist Clarence Kinjun, whom Valerie has known since childhood. Since that first meeting, the committee and members have worked tirelessly to build support and demonstrate what's possible. Two major exhibitions, About Sugar Tully and Tradition, Ritual, Community, each attracted around 40 artists, while three book fairs, children's activities and printmaking workshops have engaged the community and raised funds. But without a permanent home, the organisation's ambitions remain constrained. The proposed centre would offer rotating exhibitions, a gallery shop, workshops, movie nights, oral history projects and heritage displays. Importantly, it would provide dedicated spaces for Gulngay Traditional Owners, including a future Keeping Place Museum for rainforest culture and repatriated cultural material. Valerie said people had already offered significant cultural objects and historical memorabilia for safekeeping. "They want things to stay locally," she said. "But we can't accept any of the offers at the moment because we don't have anywhere to put them." The registered charity has developed a comprehensive business plan, three-year arts program and governance framework, supported by arts grants, community donations and fundraising. For Valerie, the vision is about much more than an art gallery. It's about celebrating Tully's creativity, preserving its cultural heritage and opening doors for future generations. "What drives me is that other people are interested as well," she said. Having once left Tully to pursue her own artistic ambitions, Valerie hopes the community's shared enthusiasm will help create a place where local talent can flourish, stories can be preserved and the arts can become an enduring part of the town's future. With council expected to consider the building's future at its October meeting, Valerie is encouraging residents to voice their support. For more information: visit tullyartsandculture.org.au or email tullyprecinct@gmail.com. 1: Dr Valerie Keenan’s passion for preserving Tully’s rich Indigenous cultural heritage is central to her vision for a permanent arts and cultural precinct in the town 2: Members of the Tully Arts and Cultural Precinct are calling for community support to establish a permanent arts, culture and heritage hub in the former Visitor Information Centre. Pictured are Valerie Keenan, Joe Leggett, Jo Threlfall, Pete Rosevear, Kerry Robertson, Bec McLean and Jeanette Clayton. Photo: Roger Morten.
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Detectives from the Tully Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB) are appealing for public information following an incident in Tully on Friday, 16 October. Initial information indicates between 2.30am and 3.10am, a woman in her twenties was assaulted by a male on a nature strip at Murray Street. Police are appealing for anyone with dashcam vision on Murray Street north of Cook Street between 2.30am and 3.10am, or anyone who saw two people walking north on Murray Street. Investigations are ongoing, anyone with relevant information or vision is urged to come forward. Quote this reference number: QP2602047863. If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting. Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au. If you’ve experienced sexual assault, it is not your fault and you are not alone. There are multiple ways to report what has happened to you depending on your situation. If there’s an immediate danger, call Triple Zero (000). You can also report online via: https://forms.police.qld.gov.au/launch/SexualAssault, over the phone or face to face at a police station. There are also Alternative Reporting Options available depending on your situation. For confidential information, counselling and support, call the State-wide Sexual Assault Helpline on 1800 010 120 or 1800 RESPECT for 24-hour help.
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Little restaurant reviewers trying different foods. Photos supplied: Halifax State School
Contributed with thanks by Halifax State School
Creativity is also flourishing in the classroom, where students are taking on the role of restaurant critics as part of an English assessment. The task requires students to review meals in the style of professional food writers, evaluating presentation, flavour, texture and the overall dining experience.
Teachers say the assessment encourages students to strengthen their descriptive and persuasive writing skills while developing critical thinking and analytical techniques. Students are challenged to support their opinions with evidence and use engaging language to bring their reviews to life.
By examining meals through the eyes of a critic, students learn how effective writing can inform and influence an audience. The task moves beyond simply deciding whether a dish was enjoyable, encouraging students to consider elements such as visual appeal, balance of flavours and value for money.
The combination of creative arts projects and engaging literacy activities reflects Halifax State School's commitment to providing authentic learning experiences that connect classroom learning with the wider world. Whether performing in a music video or crafting a detailed restaurant review, students are developing valuable communication skills, confidence and creativity that will serve them well into the future.
Through initiatives that celebrate self-expression and critical thinking, students are discovering that every story, meal and review provides an opportunity to share their voice, showcase their talents and strengthen their connection to the Halifax community.
In the GSMC Kitchen, Young Vinnies students roll up their sleeves. Photos supplied: Gilroy Santa Maria College
Contributed with thanks by Gilroy Santa Maria College
It’s been another Term of meaningful achievements for the Gilroy Santa Maria College Young Vinnie’s Program. This initiative sees local students giving back to the community, to mirror the work of the St Vincent DePaul Society.
Thanks to the generous support of the Ingham Vinnie’s store, groups of GSMC students have participated in the Sorting, Pricing, Re-stocking excursions. This outing gives students a deeper appreciation for serving the community and supporting those in need. It’s a practical, hands-on way to serve the community, getting involved in the required tasks at the store. Students sort donated items, assist with pricing and also participate in re-stocking shelves.
Back on the College grounds, in the GSMC Kitchen, Young Vinnies students roll up their sleeves and prepare delicious meals for those in our community who might otherwise go without. It’s always a lively afternoon when the Young Vinnies students and support staff step into the kitchen. Recent dishes included pumpkin soup, chicken curry, and fresh sugo.
GSMC students will have a further opportunity to serve others, with the College recently commencing visits to local aged care facility, Bluehaven. The initial visit by GSMC Year 9 students warmed the hearts of the residents while students performed on guitar for them, played card games together, and enjoyed some competitive board games.
Photo credit: Victoria Velton
By Victoria Velton
Welcome to the Cutting The Cane, a column where we have a chat with those supporting the backbone of the local economy: the farmers behind the sugar. This week third generation grower Paul Marbelli answered our questions about the 2026 season.
What stage is your paddock at now?
I’m currently sitting at around 70 per cent harvested for this season. We had an early finish to planting this year and there’s still good moisture holding in our ratoon crops too.
How are you feeling about the crop this season?
At Macknade, the weather conditions have generally been favourable. Our crop has been a little down on the original estimate for yield. However, this has been offset by higher sugar results, so at the end of the day this will probably balance out to achieve close to estimate for overall tonnes of sugar.
How do you expect this year’s season will impact the next?
A big concern I’ve had this year has been the cost of inputs, particularly fuel and fertiliser. There was a lot of focus on this before the season started. We knew that those costs would be high and profits would take a hit as a result. I was also concerned about supply but a positive is that we haven’t seen that issue in our region. Fuel and fertilisers have been available when needed, so we could continue to operate as normal. Whether this continues to be a challenge next year as well, well time will tell. But costs overall remain a challenge.
What do people who aren’t from the cane industry probably not realise about harvest season?
There is often a lot of discussion about the start and length of the season and when the right time is for this to happen. It’s quite a complex issue as what might be right for one area, may not be right for another. Take this year for example: we’ve had a very extended period of wet that has impacted growers in the Western regions. Harvesting didn’t start in those areas until July, and some are still trying to finish planting. Whereas there are other areas where growers are needing to irrigate their crops because of how dry it is. It just goes to show the vast differences that we can experience in the Herbert.
Ultimately, everyone – growers, harvesting contractors and millers, want to get the crop harvested at the best time when sugar is at the highest. Right now, it looks like the season will wrap up in early November, which will be good to see provided everyone can get their crop harvested. We’ve seen solid performance in our two mills but some bottlenecks in transport which have impacted cane supply. It’s always something to keep a close eye on to ensure that we can end the season on a good note for the whole community.
Looking ahead to the rest of the season, what are the biggest factors that will determine how it finishes?
I’m feeling good about the rest of the season. If the weather can continue to hold and mill performance continues then we will remain on track to finish, before you typically see the CCS (sugar) drop away.
One of North Queensland’s largest renewable energy projects is moving into its construction phase, bringing hundreds of jobs, business opportunities and new community funding closer for the Hinchinbrook region.
Located about 65 kilometres south-west of Ingham on Gugu Badhun Country, the Gawara Baya project has reached financial close following more than six years of planning, development and community engagement.
The project comprises a 408MW wind farm and 104MW battery energy storage system and is expected to generate enough electricity to power about 240,000 Queensland homes once operational.
Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners has acquired full ownership of the project from Windlab, providing the investment required to move towards construction, while Windlab personnel will remain part of the delivery team.
Early works are expected to begin progressively from September, starting with preparation of the accommodation camp area. Access road upgrades are scheduled from October, followed by civil construction activities from November and accommodation camp construction from December.
At peak construction, more than 500 jobs are expected to be created, with the project anticipated to generate more than $200 million in regional economic activity through employment, procurement and supply-chain participation.
Hinchinbrook community groups will also have an opportunity to benefit directly, with a $200,000 annual Community Benefit Fund becoming available as construction gets underway.
The first funding round is anticipated to open in the final quarter of 2026, supporting community initiatives across the Hinchinbrook Shire and Charters Towers local government areas.
The project has also committed to employment, training and business opportunities for Gugu Badhun People and other First Nations communities.
As early works begin, locals may notice increased project vehicles, contractors and activity around the project area, with further community updates to be provided as construction progresses.
Hinchinbrook Shire Council will conduct an aerial shooting program to control feral pig populations across participating land parcels and properties between Forrest Beach and Crystal Creek.
Subject to suitable weather conditions, the operation is scheduled for Thursday 17th September and Friday 18th September, from 5am to 7pm each day.
For public safety, access to the National Parks Estate, Bronte Road and Halifax Bay Wetlands will be closed during the operation. Access to huts located on Bronte Road will be permitted outside the planned control hours.
The program is funded by the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation; Department of Natural Resources, Mines, Manufacturing and Regional and Rural Development; Herbert Cane Productivity Services Limited; and HQ Plantation, in association with Hinchinbrook Shire Council.
For more information, or to report pig sightings contact Council on (07) 4776 4600 or email council@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au
Hinchinbrook Shire is stepping up its fight against invasive weeds and pest animals, with Council launching two programs aimed at detecting and controlling pests before they become a bigger threat to farms, waterways and native wildlife.
The two programs, which will run from September 30th 2026, to September 30th 2028, will see Council officers increase surveillance of known pest hotspots and investigate reports from residents and landholders.
The work will target priority pests including feral pigs, wild dogs, pond apple, mikania vine, Singapore daisy, thunbergia, hygrophila and redwood acacia.
Council will also keep watch for invasive species not yet established in the region, including gamba grass, mimosa pigra, fireweed, electric ants and yellow crazy ants.
Biosecurity and Public Spaces Portfolio Councillor Kate Milton said early detection could make the difference between containing a pest and dealing with an established infestation.
“Council can’t be everywhere at once. Many of our best reports come from residents and landholders who spot something unusual and let us know,” Cr Milton said.
“Early detection gives us the best chance of controlling pest species before they become established.”
The Invasive Plants and Animals Surveillance Program will focus on finding and monitoring pest species, while the Prevention and Control Program will guide efforts to manage and reduce priority pests across the Shire.
Council officers may use on-ground inspections, boats, drones, cameras and aerial imagery as part of the surveillance work.
Cr Milton said the issue extended well beyond individual properties.
“Biosecurity doesn’t stop at a fence line. What affects one property can quickly affect neighbouring landholders, farming operations, waterways and natural environments,” she said.
Residents who spot suspected pest plants or animals are encouraged to report them to Council on (07) 4776 4600.
More information is available through Hinchinbrook Shire Council’s website.
Residents are encouraged to report suspected pest plants and animals to Council by calling (07) 4776 4600.
Photos supplied: Abergowrie State School Prep, learning in the classroom
With a strong focus on outdoor learning, Abergowrie State School invites families to discover the benefits of its State Delivered Kindy and Prep programs. In a nature-rich rural setting, children learn, explore and grow through experiences that build confidence, curiosity and a connection to Country.
Abergowrie’s State Delivered Kindy has been rated as Meeting the National Quality Standard, with an Exceeding rating in Quality Area 1, Educational Program and Practice. The achievement recognises the quality education and care provided across all seven National Quality Standard areas.
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The school’s approach is centred on children as capable, curious and active learners. Their interests, ideas and choices help shape learning programs, alongside families and the wider community, with local Elders contributing knowledge and cultural perspectives that help children develop a strong sense of identity, belonging and connection to Country.
Learning extends beyond the classroom through specialist programs including Music, STEM and Bush Kindy, providing children with varied opportunities to discover their passions.
The school’s commitment to inclusion, community and reconciliation was also recognised when it received a Queensland Reconciliation Award in Education in 2024.
From Playgroup through to the early years of school, Abergowrie State School aims to provide continuity in learning and a supportive environment where children can become resilient, curious and engaged learners.
Families interested in State Delivered Kindy and Prep can contact the school office on 07 4780 8444 for more information and details about Open Days in Term 4.
Celebrating 100 Years of the Trebonne Post Office
Congratulations to Christine Johnson and her family, who this year proudly celebrate an extraordinary milestone, 100 years of continuous postal services in Trebonne.
The Trebonne Post Office first opened its doors in 1926 when Ormonde and Dorothy Britton established the service on the corner of Stone River Road and the site where it still operates today.
For half a century, the Britton family served the local community before passing the reins in 1976 to their granddaughter, Christine. Since then, Christine has continued that remarkable tradition of service, ensuring generations of local residents have remained connected through one of the district's longest running family enterprises.
The role of the Trebonne post office extended well beyond sorting and delivering mail. Over the years, the business also operated a telephone exchange and provided banking services as a Commonwealth Bank agency, making it a vital hub for the Trebonnecommunity.
Reaching 100 years of continuous operation is a truly outstanding achievement and a testament to the dedication, resilience and community spirit of the Britton and Johnson families. Their commitment has helped support local families, businesses and the broader district through generations of change.
To mark this special centenary, Christine has established a Facebook page 'Trebonne CPA – Post Office’ to share photographs, stories and memories from the Trebonne Post Office's rich history. I encourage anyone with connections to the post office, whether as a customer, employee, family member or friend, to contribute and help preserve this important piece of Hinchinbrook's history.
On behalf of Hinchinbrook Shire Council, congratulations to Christine and her family on this remarkable achievement. One hundred years of service is a legacy worth celebrating, and one that has earned a special place in the story of our community.
Did you know that Council has a feral pig management program? In partnership with Herbert Cane Productivity Services Ltd (HCPSL), cane farmers, graziers, National Parks and other land managers, Council has been baiting and trapping feral pigs across the Shire since 2009.
We are proud to operate the second-longest running feral pig management program in the country. Over the life of the program, approximately one million feral pigs have been managed through coordinated control activities.
Feral pigs cause significant damage to our cane industry, environment and grazing lands.
They dig up the ground, spread weeds, destroy pasture and crops, and leave the land rough, uneven and difficult to traverse.
They can devastate cane crops, resulting in millions of dollars in yield losses, while also damaging cane stools needed for future ratoons. Feral pigs can spread disease and are a major biosecurity concern. They also threaten native wildlife, including turtle nesting areas along our beaches, where they can dig up and destroy nests.
To support our Feral Pig Management Program and help reduce feral pig numbers even further, we are launching a Pig Trapping Competition.
The competition will run from 1 October 2026 to 31 December 2026.
Prizes will be awarded for the most pigs trapped, along with a participation prize. Terms and conditions apply, and participants must register to enter.
This is a great opportunity for parents and grandparents to teach the next generation about responsible land management, protecting the environment, and controlling feral animals to support food security and agricultural production.
To register or find out more, contact the HCPSL team on (07) 4776 5660 or email hcpslfrontdesk@hcpsl.com.au
MP Wayde Chiesa at the Men’s Breakfast in Rollingstone. Photo credit: Offices of Wayde Chiesa MP
By Wayde Chiesa MP, Member for Hinchinbrook
Over the past fortnight, I have enjoyed getting out across the electorate and spending time with the community.
I recently joined locals at the Men’s Breakfast at Rollingstone, alongside representatives from a number of community organisations. These local groups are the backbone of our smaller communities. They bring people together, look out for those who need a hand and provide the volunteers who are there whenever our community needs them. It was great to catch up with everyone and hear directly about what is happening locally.
I also enjoyed visiting Bluewater State School, where the Year 6 students put me through my paces with plenty of questions about leadership and the qualities that make a good leader. It was a great morning with some impressive young people preparing to head into high school next year.
Another issue I have been focused on is proposed changes to Commonwealth disaster funding. For North Queensland, this matters enormously.
Cyclones, floods and severe weather are a reality of where we live, and when disaster strikes, councils are often responsible for repairing enormous amounts of damaged local infrastructure.
Under existing Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, the Commonwealth can contribute up to 75 per cent of eligible expenditure for key categories of assistance, once relevant thresholds are met.
We cannot accept changes that simply shift more of that financial burden from Canberra onto the Queensland Government, local councils and ultimately local ratepayers.
The Commonwealth raises around 80 per cent of Australia's tax revenue. It is therefore unreasonable to expect state and local governments, with much smaller revenue bases, to continually pick up a greater share of the cost of rebuilding communities after natural disasters.
That is cost shifting, and I will stand with our North Queensland councils in opposing it.
Finally, our Breach Bail, Go to Jail laws are continuing their journey through Parliament. Public hearings will now be held in Townsville and Cairns, giving North and Far North Queenslanders another opportunity to have their voices heard.
For too long, our communities have lived with the consequences of repeat offenders being released on bail and going on to offend again.
Bail is a privilege, and there must be consequences when that privilege is abused.
These hearings are an important next step in ensuring these tougher laws are scrutinised, progressed and passed by Parliament before the end of the year.
Breach Bail, Go to Jail – it is what our community asked for, and I will keep fighting to see it delivered.
Many stores participated in the Shop & Win campaign in 2025. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
By Mary Brown, President of the Hinchinbrook Chamber of Industry & Tourism
Hinchinbrook Chamber’s annual “Shop & Win” campaign has become a familiar part of the local Christmas calendar, encouraging our community to shop locally, support local businesses and keep spending within our region during one of the busiest retail periods of the year.
Since the inception of this campaign, a very small team have been the driving force to make this happen, however this year that capacity is reduced and it will not be possible to go ahead with additional support.
This is why Chamber is putting the call out for assistance. Like many community initiatives, “Shop & Win” takes considerable time and effort behind the scenes to coordinate, promote and deliver. While Chamber is committed to supporting our local business community, the campaign cannot be successfully delivered by a small number of people alone.
This year, we are calling on local retailers, Chamber members and community volunteers to put their hands up and help bring “Shop & Win” to life. We’re not asking one or two people to take on the entire campaign. Quite the opposite. If a number of people can each contribute a small amount of time, the workload becomes much more manageable.
Support can take many forms, for those who are not currently members, it can be as simple as joining Chamber and becoming involved through the decision-making process. Other ways include assisting with campaign coordination, distributing and collecting materials, helping engage participating businesses, promotion, prize coordination or lending a hand with some of the administrative tasks involved in running the campaign.
Many hands make light work, and even a small commitment of time from several people would make an enormous difference.
“Shop & Win” exists to support our local business community. It encourages people to choose a local retailer, spend locally at Christmas and discover businesses they may not otherwise visit. But for a campaign designed to support local businesses to continue, it also needs the support of those businesses and the wider community.
Without additional retailer and volunteer support, Chamber will unfortunately not be in a position to progress the “Shop & Win” campaign this year.
Chamber knows there is strong community support for shopping local and would love to see “Shop & Win” return in 2026, however its future relies on a collaborative approach and people being willing to contribute to make it happen.
That’s not an outcome Chamber wants to see, and we know “Shop & Win” is something many businesses and community members look forward to each year, however continuing the campaign needs to be a shared effort.
If you are a retailer, Chamber member or community member who value “Shop & Win”, have benefited from it in previous years or simply want to help encourage people to shop locally, now is the time to get involved.
Interested parties can contact Chamber through their many platforms or come along to the monthly Chamber meeting on Monday 21st September at 5:30pm at 73-781 Lannercost Street.
Shop local. Support local.
A new monthly food pantry will open in Ingham this month, offering affordable food boxes to help community members who are doing it tough with the rising cost of living.
The Ingham ADRA Community Food Pantry will officially open on Friday 25th September from 9am to 11am at 8 Stallen Street, with food boxes containing more than $100 worth of food available for just $25.
The pantry will be operated by members of the local Adventist Church in partnership with the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA), with the intention of providing ongoing support to those experiencing financial hardship.
Organisers said the initiative comes at a time when the increasing cost of everyday essentials is placing additional pressure on many households.
The pantry is planned to operate on the last Friday of each month, providing the community with a regular source of affordable food. Fresh produce and bread may also be available, depending on supply at the time.
Food pantries have become an important resource across Australia, with similar services operating in Townsville, Ayr and Charters Towers, with the Townsville Food Pantry currently supports more than 250 families each week.
Organisers hope the new Ingham pantry will become an ongoing community resource for individuals and families who need a little extra support.
WHAT: The Ingham ADRA Community Food Pantry
WHEN: Friday September 25th, 9am–11am, then every last Friday of the Month
WHERE: 8 Stallan Street, Adventist Church, Ingham
Take time to prepare your home and property this coming bushfire season. Photo sourced: Shutterstock
Contributed with thanks by Wayde Chiesa MP, Member for Hinchinbrook
Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa has welcomed another record year of hazard reduction burning across Queensland’s parks and protected areas as communities prepare for the 2026 bushfire risk period.
Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service rangers treated a record 981,081 hectares through 546 planned burns during 2025–26, surpassing the previous record set one year earlier.
Mr Chiesa said well-managed national parks and State forests were particularly important for Hinchinbrook, including areas surrounding Paluma Range National Park, Hinchinbrook Island, Goold Island, and Cardwell State Forest.
“Many communities across Hinchinbrook live alongside or near national parks, State forests and other areas of dense vegetation,” Mr Chiesa said.
“Reducing fuel loads and improving the condition of our protected areas helps strengthen bushfire preparedness and makes these areas better neighbours to nearby homes, farms and businesses.
“Hazard reduction burning is important work. It supports healthier landscapes while helping reduce the risk bushfires pose to our surrounding communities and properties.
“This record result demonstrates the Crisafulli Government is doing the work required before bushfire season started and delivering on our commitment to provide better-managed national parks.”
The record program was delivered as part of the State Government’s More Rangers, Better Neighbours commitment.
It follows the Government’s decision to retain 40 specialist fire ranger positions that had been left unfunded by the former Government, ensuring Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service has the frontline capability needed to prepare and manage protected areas.
“Retaining these specialist rangers means Queensland has experienced people on the ground undertaking planned burns and helping communities prepare for the bushfire season,” Mr Chiesa said.
“Their work is particularly valuable in regional electorates such as Hinchinbrook, where our communities, agricultural properties and visitor destinations are closely connected to the natural environment.
“I thank our rangers and emergency-service personnel for the work they do to protect our communities.”
Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service will continue undertaking planned burns in national parks and State forests when conditions allow.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to check Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service Park Alerts for information about planned burns and local park conditions before travelling.
More information about how QPWS manages fire in parks and forests is available on the DETSI website: parks.qld.gov.au/management/programs/fire-management
FACTS:
Joe Bond and her dogs at home in Forrest Beach. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
By Victoria Velton
Twelve years ago, Joe Bond was getting up at 5:30 in the morning to exercise before heading to work, then stopping at the gym again on her way home. She was physically strong, active and confident in what her body could do. Serious repeated injuries changed that.
Now, she celebrates just walking across her yard.
Between these two moments unfolded a long mental health journey.
In 2021, Joe reached the peak of her struggle.
“That year saw me on suicide watch and severe mental health issues, where I just couldn't function,” she said.
It took around nine months for Joe to begin working through what was happening in her mind, with days when she could not get out of bed.
Her dog Bree Girl become an important support, becoming a trained therapy dog. When Joe could not find a reason to get up, Bree gave her one.
“She’s the reason why I ended up getting out of bed every day because she was the one that would sit by my bed watching me, and she would need to pee, basically,” Joe said.
“So I had to open the door. I had to get up physically, get up out of bed, and open the door.”
On 20th December 2021, Joe reached a turning point.
Having always loved travel, she set off on a trip she had dreamt about for years: leaving her home in Sydney and taking a lap of Australia in a caravan.
Within the first week of being on the road, she realised she had found something she had desperately needed: a sense of freedom.
“I really didn't understand that I could make all these decisions myself, and I didn't have to check with anybody,” she said.
“I didn't need approval. I didn't need someone to say it's okay.”
“I felt I learned to be confident in who I was to be able to make those decisions,” she said.
“Once I learnt that, I became a lot stronger mentally to say, ‘Yes, I can do this. I can keep going.’
“Every day was a new day. Every day was a new destination. Every day was a mindset,” Joe said.
“I'm going to keep going.”
Joe believes travel has made her the person she is today. It gave her the opportunity to manage her own budget, learn about mechanics, try different jobs and experience a life outside the routine she had previously felt trapped within.
“I was so stuck in that mortgage, going to work, walking the dogs, the daily grind, that I couldn't see outside of that square,” she said.
When Joe reached Forrest Beach, she stopped, and decided to call the town her new home. Now, she’s decided to take on the last leg of her trip, travelling to Sydney to close the loop.
A major challenge in this last leg will be Joe’s physical health.
To accommodate her limitations, Joe tries not to push herself too hard, and finds opportunities to enjoy the sights her way.
“If I set myself up to fail, then I'm going to fail,” she said.
“But if I set myself up to say, let's have a look, I might be able to walk 500 metres. Let's give it a go. Five hundred metres is better than nothing.”
Mentally, there are still difficult periods. But Joe feels she is better equipped now to deal with them.
A major step has been learning to identify when she is struggling and say it out loud.
“It's not easy, but it's getting easier,” she said.
“As long as I tell someone, or tell my friends or my family, ‘I'm not okay’, then they go, ‘How can we help you? What do you need?’” she said.
“I think it's all in the mindset.”
For anyone struggling with their mental health, or trying to come to terms with a life or body that has changed, Joe says ‘It's okay.’
“You've just got to listen to yourself and find something every day to look for.”
Vince Corbett Park at Forrest Beach. Photo: Victoria Velton
Rising construction and material costs have prompted Hinchinbrook Shire Council to reshape its $3.23 million Works for Queensland program, with several projects revised to ensure the State Government funding can still deliver benefits across the community.
The revised program, endorsed at Council’s August General Meeting, includes a new pump track, more than $1.25 million in upgrades at Forrest Beach, improvements to sporting and recreation facilities and planning work for future infrastructure.
Some projects have been scaled back, while others will now focus on design and planning rather than construction.
Mayor Ramon Jayo said the changes were about making the most of the available funding.
“Construction costs, material prices and project delivery costs have all increased significantly since these projects were originally developed,” Mayor Jayo said.
“Rather than pushing ahead with projects that may not be achievable within budget, Council has taken a sensible approach to make sure we continue delivering outcomes for the community while also planning for future opportunities.”
The largest allocation is more than $1.25 million for infrastructure upgrades at Vince Corbett Park at Forrest Beach, while $606,587 has been allocated for a pump track at Merv Wacker Park.
The program also includes improvements to the Ingham Showground car park, additional parking at Merv Wacker Park, half basketball courts in Ingham and Trebonne, and shade and site improvements at the Taylors Beach playground.
Funding will also support planning and delivery of trunk infrastructure for existing and future growth at Toobanna and around Sir Arthur Fadden Parade.
Meanwhile, the proposed JL Kelly Theatre foyer upgrade has been removed from the program, while the first stage of the Taylors Beach Seawalk has been revised to focus on design and concept planning.
Council said the Seawalk design needs to be reconsidered to meet current State Government environmental requirements.
Mayor Jayo said completing the design and planning work would leave Council better positioned to seek funding for construction in the future.
“This isn’t about shelving projects. It’s about getting them shovel-ready,” he said.
“By progressing the design and planning work now, Council will be in a much stronger position to pursue future grant funding opportunities when they become available.”
The revised Works for Queensland program includes:
Mayor Jayo said the program would deliver a mix of recreational improvements and infrastructure planning.
“These projects are about improving liveability, supporting families, creating new recreational opportunities and making sure we’re planning ahead for growth,” he said.
Council will now work with the Queensland Government to finalise the amended program, with projects expected to be delivered by 30th June 2027.
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