The Queensland Police Service (QPS) are appealing for public assistance to help locate a number of vehicles stolen across Far North Queensland in the past month, as part of the latest Vehicle Watch update.

According to Queensland Police, at least 69 vehicles have been reported stolen across the region so far in January, with the same number recorded for the year to date. In comparison, 808 vehicles were stolen across the Far North in 2025.

Among the most recent thefts is a blue 2009 Audi A6-C7, Queensland registration 102OX8, stolen from Woree on 25 January. A silver 2018 Toyota Corolla, registration 756XXC, was also stolen from Atherton on the same day.

Police are also searching for a silver 2011 Hyundai i20, registration 635ZNQ, stolen from White Rock on 23 January, and a blue 2008 Hyundai Getz, registration 504ZNQ, stolen from Westcourt on 24 January.

Several other vehicles, including cars, dual cab utilities, motorcycles, quad bikes and a campervan, have been reported stolen from locations including Cairns City, Thursday Island, Babinda, Mareeba and Gordonvale throughout January and late December.

QPS have recently launched an Active Stolen Vehicle Public Portal, allowing members of the public to view up-to-date information about stolen vehicles.

Authorities are reminding residents to take simple steps to reduce the risk of vehicle theft, including removing valuables from vehicles, ensuring vehicles are locked, not leaving spare keys inside cars, securing keys out of sight, and making sure homes are properly secured.

Anyone with information that may assist police is urged to contact Policelink via the online suspicious activity form at police.qld.gov.au/reporting. Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at crimestoppersqld.com.au.

Anyone contacting police is asked to quote reference numbers QP2600169582, QP2600158919, QP2600146527 or QP2600151299.

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Residents are reminded that sand and sandbags remain available for those wishing to make their own preparations.

Community members can still access sand and sandbags at the following locations:
Cordelia – Carr’s Farm
Halifax – Lancini’s Farm Shed, Scott Street
Lucinda – Lions Park, Patterson Parade (near the Coastguard)
Taylors Beach – Progress Park
Forrest Beach – Near the water tower and skate park

Residents are encouraged to keep any existing sandbags in place and store unused sandbags in a dry area to ensure they remain intact, as they deteriorate quickly when wet.

Sandbags remain a key component of wet‑season preparedness.

Even if they are ultimately not required, having them ready provides protection and reassurance while weather conditions continue to evolve.

The Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) continues to actively monitor weather conditions and associated risks.

The LDMG thanks residents for their continued preparedness, cooperation, and community support.

(Contributed with thanks by Mayor Ramon Jayo, Chair of the Hinchinbrook Local Disaster Management)

With Mandy’s Beauty In The Bush

Forget the superstition - Friday the 13th is getting a glow-up. This Valentine’s season, Mandy’s Beauty in the Bush is turning the lead-up to February 14th into a joyful celebration of love, friendship, and feel-good moments that start before the big day.

With Valentine’s Day falling on Saturday the 14th, Mandy is spreading the love throughout the week, including Friday deliveries to local workplaces, because nothing brightens a workday quite like surprise flowers arriving at your desk.

For those on the go, Mandy also offers “Petal Pick Up” from her studio in the heart of Ingham. Simply call ahead, grab some beautiful blooms on your way home, and surprise a loved one with a spontaneous burst of floral joy.

From lush fresh flower arrangements to chocolates, teddy bears, wine, and beautifully curated gift packs, Mandy makes it easy to spoil the people you love. Planning a romantic dinner? Flowers can even be delivered straight to your chosen restaurant for that extra wow factor.

And Valentine’s isn’t just about romance. Mandy’s designs celebrate love in all its forms, from Galentine’s dates and lifelong friendships to self-love and community connection. While classic red roses will always have their place, this year’s trend blends pinks and reds for a softer, modern take that feels warm and joyful.

Each arrangement or bouquet is thoughtfully designed to feel personal, meaningful, and full of heart - the kind of gift that says it all -without saying a word.

With Mandy’s Beauty in the Bush, Friday the 13th isn’t unlucky at all. It's a week filled with love and floral moments that make hearts bloom.

Pink Roses
Pink roses are known for expressing admiration, gratitude, and affection. Their softer tones convey gentle emotions, making them suitable for a variety of occasions beyond romance, including friendships and celebrations.

Admiration and Appreciation: Pink roses are perfect for thanking someone or acknowledging their efforts.
Joy and Happiness: They celebrate special moments such as birthdays, anniversaries, and achievements.
Gentleness and Femininity: The soft hues embody grace and elegance, often associated with femininity.

Red Roses
Red roses, in contrast, are the classic symbol of passionate love, deep affection, and desire. They convey strong emotions and are traditionally reserved for romantic expressions, making them ideal for significant occasions.

Passionate Love: Red roses are the ultimate expression of romance and devotion.
Respect and Admiration: Beyond love, they also communicate respect, appreciation, and heartfelt admiration.
Reserved for the Heart’s Chosen: Unlike pink roses, red roses are best given to someone truly special, a meaningful gesture for the chosen one of your heart.

Valentine’s Day is all about sharing love, and what better way to celebrate than with something sweet and delicious from Mick’s Bread Kitchen? Enjoy a special moment together over a shared treat, whether it’s a picnic by the water or a quiet afternoon under the trees of your own garden.

Bakery favourites include mini Burnt Basque cheesecakes with a caramelised brûlée twist, huge bars of Dubai Chocolate, and fresh raspberry croissants filled with vanilla bean custard and raspberry compote. Valentine’s cupcakes will fill the shelves, ideal for sharing with your sweetheart... or keeping it all to yourself!

For a sustainable and stylish way to enjoy your drinks, Mick's now stocks Pottery For The Planet ceramic travel cups. Each cup is handmade and unique, designed to keep drinks hot or cold for longer. Pick a cup for you and one for your love this Valentines, making your coffee or tea times a little more special.

This Valentine’s weekend, share a sweet moment, a delicious treat, or a perfectly brewed drink. Love is best served with flavour and enjoyed together.

This Valentine’s season, Fiori With Love is inviting locals to celebrate romance, friendship, and connection in a space that’s been beautifully transformed to suit every kind of love story. Following their recent renovations, the café now offers a mix of cosy private nooks perfect for intimate dates, along with larger tables ideal for Galentine’s gatherings filled with laughter and good company.

Couples can enjoy a relaxed moment together, sharing a slice of cake and a warm drink while sitting among the blooms near Fiori’s stunning new floral hub. Surrounded by fresh flowers and soft colours, it’s a setting that feels special without being formal, making it an easy choice for those wanting to mark the occasion in a simple but meaningful way.

For groups of friends, the open layout creates the perfect space to gather, catch up, and celebrate the important women in your life. Whether it’s a long brunch or a spontaneous catch-up, Fiori’s welcoming atmosphere makes every visit feel like a little celebration.

From quiet romantic moments to joyful group catch-ups, Fiori With Love is making this Valentine’s season a cosy one. Alongside the café experience, visitors can browse a beautiful range of boutique gifts and homewares, perfect for surprising a loved one with something thoughtful and unique. And of course, for those who love to give flowers, Fiori’s signature floral creations remain at the heart of the space, with fresh and forever options. You can come in or call Louise on 07 4776 2362 to reserve a table or order a bouquet.

Our first prompt for Hinchinbrook Life's Photo Of The Week is: 'Our Country, Australia'

This week's feature photo is by Tracey's Photography - Tracey Adams.
Featuring Macknade looking toward Hinchinbrook Island. Taken Dec, 2025.

"Australia means home."

To submit your photo to be eliagle for feature in the newspaper, please join the "Ingham Photography Group" facebook page. A post will be made regularly with a prompt for you to submit your photos too.

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Meet Kelton!

He's an irresistibly charming ginger-and-white gentleman with a personality as refined as his looks. Immaculately groomed and wonderfully tidy, Kelton takes great pride in keeping himself—and his space—clean and orderly. Kelton loves other cats for company, bus is not keen on canines.

While he’s not a fan of being picked up, Kelton is a devoted companion who loves to be nearby. He’ll happily keep you company during a quiet evening, as you relax on the couch. Treats are the way to his heart, and he’ll gently take snacks from your hand, making bonding with him both easy and rewarding.

Kelton may not be a lap cat, but his calm presence and sweet nature bring a comforting, best-friend energy to any home. If you’re looking for an elegant, low-drama, no-fuss cat who shows love in subtle, meaningful ways, Kelton could be your perfect match.

Does it sound too good to be true? Come see for yourself! To meet Kelton fill in an inquiry form at www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html

Included in adoption fee of $210 DESEXED, MICRO-CHIPPED, up to date VACCINATIONS, FLEA/TICK/INTESTINAL WORM treated.

DOB: 15/07/2023
Sex: Male
Breed: DSH
Colour: Ginger & White
Kid friendly: Yes
Cat Friendly: Yes
Dog Friendly: No
Indoors/Outdoors: Indoors

A legacy‑building sporting and lifesaving stalwart, a values‑driven student leader and a community service champion are among the winners at the 2026 Hinchinbrook Shire Council Australia Day Awards today.

Hundreds of families and friends gathered to witness Order of Australia recipient Leonardo Chiesa being named Citizen of the Year. Gemma Di Bella, co-captain of Gilroy Santa Maria College, received the Young Citizen of the Year, while one of the Saint Vincent de Paul Society’s guiding presences, Sam Consentino, was honoured with the Beryl Prior Award.

AUSTRALIA DAY AWARD WINNERS ANNOUNCED

Rina Zatta, a tireless cornerstone of local athletics, won the Individual Achievement Award, while Janice Carr took out the Senior Cultural Award for her work as one of the custodians of Hinchinbrook’s history.

The Junior Cultural Award was given to Indiana Guy for her devotion to championing youth arts, and joint Junior Sports Award winners were all‑round sportsman Liam Fascetti, and Levi Murray who consistently ranks among Australia’s top mini bull riders.

The eight winners were selected from 27 nominations, and Mayor Ramon Jayo said Australia Day in Hinchinbrook serves as a reminder of the values that unite the region.

“Today was about community, resilience and a shared pride in the place we call home. All our nominees embody those values with humility and a quiet kind of everyday heroism that deserves to be celebrated,” Mayor Jayo said.

“But we know there can only be eight winners and, on behalf of our community, congratulations — we are so very proud of you.”

Reflecting on one of the most challenging events in recent memory — the uncertain days of the February 2025 floods — Mayor Jayo, who is also the Local Disaster Management Group chair, recognised 24 people from every corner of the shire who stood taller than the rising waters.

“They were honoured not for seeking praise, but for doing what communities do best: serving, volunteering, and sharing trusted information to keep Hinchinbrook strong,” Mayor Jayo said.

“Thank you to the judges of the Australia Day judging committee, especially its chair, Tom Mudie. Thank you to Australia Day ambassador Karen Jacobsen, internationally known as the voice of Siri, and congratulations to the six new citizens who received their Australian citizenship today.”

HINCHINBROOK SHIRE COUNCIL’S AUSTRALIA DAY AWARD WINNERS

Australia Day Citizen of the Year Award winner

Leonardo “Lenny” Chiesa
With more than five decades of service to Rugby League and Surf Lifesaving — and an OAM recognising his contribution — Lenny continues to mentor young lifesavers, patrol local beaches and coach athletes to national success, earning major honours in 2025 including North Queensland and Queensland Sportstar of the Year for Service to Sport and the Clive Hammond Award.

Young Citizen Award winner

Gemma Di Bella
A thoughtful and community‑minded young leader, Gemma served as co-school captain of Gilroy Santa Maria College in 2025, donated her Deus Caritas Award prize to the Mayor’s Christmas Appeal, supported key community events, and contributes her time as an active member of Young Vinnies.

Beryl Prior Award winner

Sam Cosentino
Sam has dedicated more than 27 years to the Saint Vincent de Paul Society, assisting families in need, delivering essential items, supporting the community through floods and cyclones, and lending his skills to local parish projects — always with sincerity, honesty and goodwill.

Individual Achievement Award winner

Rina Zatta
For over 20 years, Rina has been a cornerstone of the Herbert River Athletics Club, taking on major roles, supporting young competitors, maintaining club facilities, and earning recognition including the 2025 Club Person of the Year and a Lions Club Service Award.

Senior Cultural Award winner

Janice Carr
A dedicated guardian of local history, Jan helped formalise and lead the Ingham Family History Association, was a founding member of the Herbert River Museum Gallery Inc., and has contributed tirelessly across cultural and community organisations.

Junior Cultural Award winner

Indiana Guy
A vibrant contributor to the local arts scene, Indiana performs widely, competes in regional festivals, mentors through the Dance Step Program and teaches her own Hip Hop class, inspiring the next generation of dancers.

Dual Junior Sports Award winners

Liam Fascetti
Liam has excelled in squash at state level, serving as Queensland Sharks U19 number one and Captain in 2025, representing Queensland in the Trans‑Tasman Series, and earning multiple sports honours, while also contributing strongly to school and club soccer.

Levi Murray
A consistent young competitor in junior rodeo, Levi has secured multiple wins and placings, qualified for the ABCRA National Finals for the third consecutive year — ranked second nationally — and claimed NQ Zone titles as Champion All‑Round Cowboy and Champion Mini Bull Rider.

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Hiya Hinchinbrook Shire,

Congratulations to all the nominees and recipients of the Australia Day Awards this year. I am proud to be among you as a nominee myself. A warm welcome as well to all our new citizens who made the pledge on stage in front of what must have felt like the entire town. Hinchinbrook is stronger and better for all the good you bring.

Every Hinchinbrook citizen who was nominated should feel incredibly proud to be recognised. For some, it was for quiet deeds, and for others, outstanding achievements. Every name called out and every person who walked onto that stage deserves full recognition for their role in making our Shire safer, stronger, and more connected than ever.

A special mention to the Flood Heroes category. So many locals stepped up and showed what our community is made of in both big and small ways, helping wherever it was needed, from water rescues to simple check-in conversations. Every action mattered. Congratulations to all nominees!

Victoria

Fun fact: After the awards, I dashed straight to the Australia Day pool party hosted by Council and the Aquatic Centre, and right at the front entryway of the pool was a lamington so big it took up an entire table!

Hinchinbrook Shire Council has become aware of a phone scam targeting residents. Individuals are receiving
calls from someone posing as Council, claiming to be conducting a survey and requesting personal information.

Please be advised:
• Council is not conducting any phone surveys at this time.
• Be cautious of unsolicited phone calls.
• Do not share personal details, credit card information, or online account credentials unless you are certain of the caller’s identity.

All official Council community consultations are published on our website: https://hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au
If you receive a suspicious call, please report it to Council immediately on (07) 4776 4600.

For further information on scams and how to protect yourself, visit: www.scamwatch.gov.au
Thank you for your cooperation in helping keep our community safe.

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The Hinchinbrook Library hosted a Summer Reading Club, beginning in december and running until a week before school started back for Term 1. There where a total of 25 participants who entered the reading challenge and the winner of the grand prize, who read a total of 80 books over the two month challenge period, was Dyala Salih.

A raffle was drawn for two more fantastic prize packs, and the lucky winners went home with items like a new Spaldings basketball and new books among other treats.

Deputy Mayor Mary Brown conducted the raffle and spoke to the gathered children and parents who were there to enjoy the little reading club party;

"Once again, we would like to extend our appreciation to each one of you for actively participating in the Summer Reading Club programme," she said warmly.

"Your involement has truly made this event a success, we appreciate your time and effort you all hae dedicated to engaging in this programme and we encourage you all to continue reading and exploring the worlds through the pages of a book."

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Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre (HCSC) delivers an Emergency Relief (ER) Program, a vital support service funded and supported through Neighbourhood Centre's Queensland and delivered by neighbourhood centres across Queensland.

Emergency Relief provides short-term assistance to individuals and families experiencing financial hardship. Support may include food assistance, essential items, and referrals to other services, helping community members navigate periods of crisis while working towards longer-term stability.

Since December 2025 and into January 2026, HCSC has experienced a significant increase in Emergency Relief requests. With the rising cost of living and growing housing insecurity, more individuals and families are being forced to make impossible choices, which often look like going without food in order to pay rent, electricity bills, car insurance, registration, and other essential expenses.

HCSC is incredibly proud to be able to offer this program and provide immediate, practical relief to members of our community during times of need. While Emergency Relief cannot solve every challenge, it can ease pressure in moments of crisis and ensure people are not left without basic necessities.

Importantly, Emergency Relief appointments also allow our team to identify underlying and compounding issues that may be contributing to a person’s situation. Through these conversations, we often learn that individuals and families are experiencing homelessness, domestic and family violence, psychological trauma, or other significant life stressors.

As a Neighbourhood Centre, HCSC plays a critical role in connecting people to further support. Many clients accessing Emergency Relief are referred to additional services, which may be internally within HCSC programs or externally to other specialist service providers. This holistic approach helps individuals receive the right support to address their circumstances and work towards improved stability and wellbeing.

We are deeply honoured to support our community in this capacity and extend our sincere thanks to our donors, funding bodies, and community partners, whose generosity makes this essential work possible.

With plenty of boaties out on the water this Australia Day long weekend, Ergon Energy Network is urging skippers to take extra care when anchoring or navigating to avoid damaging electricity infrastructure and risking serious injury.

Ergon Work Group Leader Ryan Tuivaiti said the electricity company, at times, has recovered dozens of anchors from underwater electricity cables during inspections by commercial divers.

“We’ve seen far too many cases where anchors have been dropped directly onto our underwater cables, which can cause serious damage and pose a significant safety risk,” Mr Tuivaiti said.

“Before anchoring, boat owners must look for our large yellow signs on either side of the waterway or river. These signs indicate the presence of an underwater electricity cable crossing, and anchoring is strictly prohibited within 200 metres of these zones.”

Ergon is also reminding sailors to be aware of overhead powerlines in some waterways, especially during the highest astronomical tides.

“Sailboat owners should always check marine charts before heading out to ensure their vessel won’t come into contact with overhead powerlines,” Mr Tuivaiti said.

“Owners of trailable sailboats must fold down their masts before leaving the boat ramp. We’ve had incidents where masts have struck overhead powerlines while boats were being driven away.”

If a boat’s mast accidentally strikes an overhead powerline, everyone on board should avoid touching the mast and move as far away from it as possible.

Similarly, if an anchor hooks onto an underwater electricity cable, never attempt to pull the cable to the surface. If possible, cut the rope or chain and leave the anchor behind.

“If there’s no safe way to free your boat, call for help immediately,” Mr Tuivaiti said.

“Contact the Coast Guard, Voluntary Marine Rescue (VMR), or dial triple zero. Your safety is the priority.”

Ergon continues to work closely with marine authorities to raise awareness and protect Queensland’s electricity network from avoidable damage.

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As summer temperatures soar across the Hinchinbrook Shire, local pet owners are being urged to think twice before leaving animals in cars or on the back of utes, even for just a few minutes.

Most people know the discomfort of climbing into a car that has been sitting in the sun — scorching seatbelts, burning steering wheels and stifling heat. For pets, particularly dogs, those conditions can quickly become fatal.

On a hot summer’s day, the temperature inside a parked car can climb as high as 73 degrees Celsius. Even parking in the shade or leaving windows slightly open does little to reduce the risk, and ute trays can burn pets’ footpads or bodies within minutes.

Dogs are especially vulnerable to heat stress because they do not sweat like humans. Instead, they rely on panting, drinking water and resting on cool surfaces to regulate their body temperature. In hot, enclosed spaces such as cars, these cooling methods are simply not enough.

Authorities are reminding pet owners that leaving an animal without adequate water and shelter may constitute an offence under the Animal Care and Protection Act 2001.

Providing ample shade, multiple water sources, ice cubes in drinking bowls, frozen dog treats and access to a shallow paddle pool can help pets cope with extreme heat.

Pets should never be tethered in the sun, as even 20 minutes tied up without shade can cause panic and rapid overheating.

If a pet is found in a hot car, immediate action is critical. Members of the public are urged to call 1300 ANIMAL (1300 264 625), contact police on 000 in an emergency, or notify centre management if the vehicle is in a car park. People are advised not to break vehicle windows, as police have the authority to enter vehicles safely and breaking glass can place both the rescuer and the animal at risk.

As temperatures continue to rise, authorities are urging Queenslanders to remember a simple rule: if it’s too hot for you, it’s far too hot for your pet.