As the Ingham community continues to recover from the devastating floods earlier this year, Women in Sugar Herbert (WISH), a branch of CANEGROWERS Herbert River, has stepped up to support local schools in a meaningful way. The group recently donated 15 copies of the children’s book No Drama Cane Farmer, written by Mackay-based educator and cane-farming mum Nicki Townley, to primary schools and kindergartens throughout the Ingham district.

One of the most grateful recipients was Toobanna State School, located just south of Ingham, which lost its entire library collection in the February floods.

“When we presented the books, the school staff were overwhelmed and so grateful,” said WISH President Sharon Fighera. “It’s a small gesture, but one that brings joy, hope, and a touch of normality back to these young students.”

WISH, a branch of Canegrowers Herbert River, is a committed local networking group of women actively engaged in the sugar industry. Meeting monthly, they connect, share knowledge, and support one another while advancing the region’s sugarcane sector through community initiatives like this.

The donation comes in the wake of one of the worst flood events in the region’s history. In February 2025, torrential rain caused the Herbert River to rise to nearly 15.2 metres, inundating large parts of Ingham and surrounding areas. The flooding left widespread damage across homes, roads, farms, and schools, displacing hundreds of residents into emergency shelters.

No Drama Cane Farmer, released in April, has quickly gained popularity across Queensland. The story follows a young boy discovering the workings of a sugarcane farm, from planting and harvesting to machinery and processing, through engaging rhymes and vibrant illustrations.

Author Nicki Townley says the book is based on her own family’s life on a cane farm and was written to help children better understand where their food comes from and to instil pride in rural living. With this donation, Women in Sugar Herbert hopes to help rebuild lost resources and inspire a renewed love of reading and agriculture among local children.

Contributed with thanks to Canegrowers Herbert River.

Recently, the Herbert River Farmers’ League (HRFL) awarded their annual scholarships. Do you know that the Ingham Travel building is situated in the former League Building? Look up and you will see the date 1925, but the words Herbert River Farmers League Limited Est 1896 are now covered by a sign.

So what are the origins of the HRFL? The League, which advocated and negotiated for small farmers for 80 years, has its origins in the Herbert River Farmers’ Association (HRFA), formed in 1882. That association was unique in the sugar growing world in representing small independent sugar farmers' interests and the first in Queensland formed to represent small growers’ interests rather than those of the planters.

It all began in plantation days when a group of small farmers—described as a ‘clique of insignificant cockies’— bravely approached the powerful Colonial Sugar Refining Company (CSR)—once described as ‘the most selfish company in the Australasias'—with the suggestion that they could supply sugar cane to CSR’s Victoria Plantation Mill for crushing. Those farmers were Swedish August Anderssen, Norwegians Johan (John) Alm and Harald Hoffensetz, Danish Neils C. Rosendahl, English Arthur W. Carr, and Irish Francis Herron. Together they formed the Herbert River Farmers’ Association (HRFA).

The founding principle was 'to work for and promote the interests of the farming industry in general and the welfare and progress of the Herbert River district in particular'. The association was a 'Bureau through which the farmers could communicate with the Government or others on any matter of common interest with one voice'. For 14 years it was the voice of the Valley’s small farmers.

As the sugar industry spread across the Valley and farmers formed local interest groups, the HRFA’s representative role was then assumed in 1896 by the Herbert River Farmers’ League—an amalgamation of the HRFA and the local associations, which became affiliated branches. The members of the HRFA who predominantly farmed in the Halifax area continued an advocacy role there through membership in the HRFL and their own local association, the Halifax Planters’ Club (HPC).

Just as the HRFL built its own building in Lannercost Street from which to conduct its business, in 1926, the Queensland Government legislated for a statutory industry-wide association, the Queensland Cane Growers’ Association (QCGA), now CANEGROWERS. After the formation of the local branch of the QCGA in 1932— the Herbert River Cane Growers’ Association (HRCGA)—the HRFL continued to advocate on behalf of small farmers until 1976, at which time it reinvented itself as an educational scholarship funding body.

Contributed with thanks by Dr. Bianka Vidonja Balanzategui.

Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) has recorded its biggest year of planned burns to date, surpassing its annual target by more than 50 per cent.

Between the 1st of July 2024 and the 30th of June 2025, QPWS carried out 637 planned burns across 968,884 hectares of Queensland’s public protected estate. The burns aim to reduce the risk and severity of bushfires, protect communities and infrastructure, and promote healthy ecosystems across the state’s parks and forests.

The milestone comes as part of the State Government’s More Rangers, Better Neighbours initiative, which has invested in additional fire management staff, upgraded equipment, enhanced training, and improved engagement with local communities. This includes restoring funding for 40 specialist fire rangers to strengthen bushfire preparedness and park management.

Planned burns are highly weather-dependent, requiring cooler conditions and minimal wind to create a patchwork of burnt and unburnt areas that support biodiversity and habitat conservation.

Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell praised the achievement.

“It is fantastic to see Rangers prepare our protected areas for the months and years ahead through the strategic use of fire,” Minister Powell said.

“What they have achieved this year is astounding – bolstered by good weather, strong investment in the QPWS fire program and an increased use of aerial burning techniques to deliver broadscale burning across multiple parts of Queensland when conditions are right.

“I want to congratulate our QPWS rangers and Fire teams for their focus, coordination, and commitment to deliver such an incredible result – protecting Queensland communities and our precious environment.”

QPWS Fire Services Director Troy Spinks said burns would continue over the coming weeks while conditions remain favourable.

“Rangers have done an exceptional job this year, but people can still expect to see smoke on the horizon as crews make the most of these cooler, milder conditions to undertake even more burns within national parks and state forests,” Mr Spinks said.

“These planned burns not only provide a picture-perfect sunset but prepare us for the upcoming bushfire season.

“We thank the community for your support and understanding over the coming weeks as we work to protect our parks and neighbours by delivering these vital planned burns.”

Families seeking a nurturing and enriching beginning to their child’s education are invited to enrol for Prep 2026 at St Peter’s Catholic School, Halifax. The school offers a warm and caring environment where each child is valued and supported to thrive academically, socially, and spiritually.

With small class sizes and a qualified, experienced early years teacher, St Peter’s ensures every student receives personalised attention and one-on-one support tailored to their unique needs. Teaching practices at the school are modern, engaging, and grounded in the Science of Learning. Emphasising hands-on experiences, students learn through play-based exploration and real-world activities that make learning both fun and meaningful.

The curriculum also includes creative arts, physical education, and digital technologies, promoting well-rounded development across all key learning areas.

St Peter’s Catholic School is proud to foster a loving and inclusive school community where children are encouraged to grow in confidence, curiosity, and compassion. Rooted in Gospel values, students are supported and challenged to live out the teachings of Jesus in their daily lives.

To experience the difference a supportive and faith-filled learning environment can make, families are warmly invited to attend one of the upcoming Prep Open Mornings, running from 8:30am to 11:00am on the following dates:

➔ Friday 12th September
➔ Friday 19th September
➔ Friday 14th November
➔ Friday 21st November

To book a tour or find out more, contact the school on 4777 7431 or email halfx@tsv.catholic.edu.au.

Students at Ingham State High School undertaking Certificate II in Rural Operations are gaining valuable real-world experience, community connections, and inspiration to pursue careers in agriculture.

At the beginning of the course, students focused on Workplace Health & Safety (WH&S) within the agricultural industry and were introduced to the fundamentals of safe tractor operation and the use of various implements. Students gained valuable hands-on experience in the effective operation of both the school's New Holland tractor and the Herbert River Athletics Club’s Kubota lawn tractor and rotary hoe.

Due to unfavourable conditions earlier in the year, it has only recently been possible to begin preparing the school’s agricultural block on the George Day Athletics Oval. Students have now successfully planted sugar cane as well as a range of vegetables, including pumpkins, zucchini, long capsicums and eggplant to enhance their learning and meet course outcomes.

The success of the program is due in large part to the generous support of local farmers, industry companies, and agricultural bodies, including HCPSL and Canegrowers Herbert River. Local farmer, Alan Lynn, donated his time and expertise, along with the use of his Bed Mounder/Renovator, to help students prepare the block for planting.

Regan and Kristen Kernke from Agro Group also kindly donated and spread a full load of mill mud onto the block to assist with soil preparation. This donation not only improved soil health but also significantly reduced the need to purchase fertilisers, supporting the sustainability of the school’s agricultural program.

HCPSL also provided tissue-cultured sugar cane varieties, which students recently planted under the guidance of Field Technician Rhiannan Harragon. These newly released varieties will form part of the school’s entry in the Herbert River Canegrowers Sugar Cane Varieties competition at the annual Ingham Show.

Ingham State High School’s Certificate II in Rural Operations program continues to benefit from the strong partnership between the school and the local agricultural industry. The school extends its sincere appreciation for the ongoing support, which plays a vital role in student success.

This year, the Catholic community is joyfully celebrating the Year of Jubilee: Pilgrims of Hope—a time to reflect on the shared journey of faith and the hope that lights the way forward.

As part of this special celebration, Townsville Catholic Education invited students from across the diocese—stretching from Ingham to Mount Isa, Townsville to Charters Towers, and every community in between—to create an artwork that captures the true essence of Hope.

Year 6 students from Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School embraced the challenge with enthusiasm and heartfelt reflection. They spent time exploring what hope means to them—in their faith, friendships, community, and dreams for the future.

The result is a stunning collection of artworks that are not only visually striking but deeply meaningful. Each piece tells its own powerful story of resilience, faith, and optimism.

The school community is incredibly proud of the students' creativity, insight, and the thoughtful way they have brought the theme of Hope to life. These artworks stand as a testament to the enduring strength of young voices and a reminder that—even in uncertain times—hope continues to guide, uplift, and inspire.

Here are some of the finalists from Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School proudly showing their artworks that represent the Pilgrims of Hope.

This Father’s Day, JB Marine is helping you celebrate the legends in your life with unbeatable deals for all the fishing and boating dads out there!

For all your boating needs from wash to service, from 1st September to Monday, 8th September, enjoy 10% off all floor stock items when you use the code FATHERSDAY25 at purchase.

Whether you are after premium marine accessories, boating gear, or the latest gadgets, now is the time to grab a great deal, as they have everything perfect for keeping your vessel looking sharp and ready for adventure.

For those considering upgrading their outboard, Mercury Marine is running an unbeatable promotion. Right now, receive a complete rigging kit absolutely free when you purchase a selected 115 to 300 horsepower Mercury Marine outboard. This limited-time offer means serious value for your boating investment, but you will need to move fast.

Whether you are buying for Dad or upgrading your own boat and enjoying the new gear, JB Marine’s Father’s Day specials are the perfect excuse to set sail on new adventures with only the best new kit. Cast a line and show your old man some love with a fishing trip! Terms and conditions apply.

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Father’s Day is just around the corner, and at Hinchinbrook Community Pharmacy, we’ve made it easy to find a gift that shows Dad how much he means to you. Whether your father is practical, sentimental, or enjoys a little indulgence, our shelves are stocked with thoughtful options to suit every taste and budget.

For the dad who loves to keep active and healthy, explore our range of men’s grooming products, skincare essentials, and health supplements. If your father prefers something a little more personal, we have premium fragrances, stylish accessories, and beautifully packaged gift sets that are sure to make him feel appreciated.

Not sure what to choose? Our friendly team is always on hand to help you find the perfect present, or even put together a custom hamper tailored just for him. With free gift wrapping available, you can leave our store ready to surprise Dad with something truly special.

This Father’s Day, skip the socks and give a gift that speaks from the heart. Visit Hinchinbrook Community Pharmacy and let us help you make Dad’s day one to remember.

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The Seniors Medieval Morning Tea proved to be a magical and memorable occasion, filled with laughter, music and a sense of community. Guests were transported back in time as they were greeted by a visiting crusader knight, who mingled with the crowd and posed for cheerful photographs. Many princesses and noble ladies, dressed in their finest medieval attire, graced the tables, adding a colourful charm to the room.

The tables themselves were laden with decorations and delicious treats, as friends and neighbours gathered to share stories, enjoy the morning and celebrate the spirit of togetherness.

On stage, the entertainment flowed without pause. Chair exercises brought smiles and light-hearted participation, while choirs filled the hall with harmonies. Energetic dances swept across the stage, and talented musicians showcased instruments and voices that added a lively and charming touch to the event.

With every moment offering something new, the morning became a tapestry of joy, performance and companionship. It was a celebration of connection, where seniors could revel in fun, laughter and a little medieval magic.

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Find the fullk social pics here: https://tinyurl.com/22nu4ct3

Friday Recap And Upcoming Meeting

Last Friday, members of the HCSC Seniors Morning Coffee Club gathered at the Noorla Bowls Club for a morning filled with conversation, laughter, and activities. The highlight of the day was a thoughtful presentation from Penny King of NWRH, which was warmly received by everyone in attendance. Morning tea was a treat, with plenty of delicious options to enjoy before the fun continued with bingo and trivia. The atmosphere was lively, with plenty of smiles shared across the room.

Looking ahead, the club’s next meeting will take place on Friday, 29 August, and there will be a venue change. For the next few gatherings, members will come together at Conroy Hall, 41 McIlwraith Street, Ingham. The morning runs from 9:30am to 11:30am and continues to offer a wonderful program of games, trivia, prizes, and of course, a tasty morning tea.

A $5 entry fee helps cover the cost of catering, and transport options are available for seniors needing pick-ups from Halifax or around Ingham. To RSVP or register your interest, please contact Desley on 07 4776 1822.

Join us for another enjoyable morning of friendship and community.

Contributed with thanks by Desley Di Bella, Elderly Inclusion Facilitator of the HCSC.

The Cardwell and Tully Sub Branches met at the El Arish RSL Hall for a morning tea and a tour of the town's Museum. Incidentally, this gathering occurred on the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Pacific or V.P. Day.

The El Arish Hall committee are to be congratulated for their hard work in keeping these buildings in top condition, and their community spirit was an inspiration to all the visitors. El Arish is an old soldier settlement town and has a very strong connection to our Military past.

The recently commissioned “War Horse to Plough Horse “ exhibit is a brilliant example of what a community can achieve.

Contributed with thanks by Rob Lang, President of the Cardwell RSL Sub-Branch

Jim Hodge may call himself “a newbie” to Hinchinbrook, but after 22 years in Ingham, he has become a well-known voice both in person and online.

Born in Victoria in 1957, Jim spent little time in his birth state before moving around Australia. When it came time to settle, Ingham stood out. “It ticked enough boxes,” Jim said. “It was big enough to have Coles and Woolies, but not the traffic woes of bigger places. And the people were my kind of people.” He admired the strong work ethic of the Italian community in particular, which helped him feel right at home.

Jim’s working life was spent as a postie in New South Wales. He recalls long hours, especially at Christmas, when mail reached its peak. “One year, I didn’t start the round until five in the afternoon after a full day of sorting,” he said. The heavy workload eventually took a toll on his health, and he has been on a pension since his forties.

Life in Ingham has brought both challenges and new beginnings. Jim lost his first wife nearly 13 years ago after caring for her through illness. Today, he is married to Olivia, who has encouraged him to reconnect with the wider world. “Thanks to her, I got out in the world again,” he said. “The spirit wants to go, but the body doesn’t always agree anymore.”

Jim is a regular at the Seniors Morning Coffee Club, which he admits is his main form of socialising. Away from gatherings, he spends much of his time on the computer. While Olivia is active on Facebook, Jim also uses the platform, often adding his perspective to local conversations. “Somebody’s got to rock the boat,” he said with a smile.

Among his strongest views are the need for better community infrastructure, particularly footpaths. “It’s fine in the fancy parts of town, but down Perkins or McIlwraith Street, there’s nothing,” he said as he sees firsthand how difficult accessibility can be.

Before his father passed aged 94, Jim went to visit him as often as he could, always sporting his lucky hat so his father could recognise him. He suffered from dementia linked to a lack of vitamin B12, which has shaped Jim’s awareness of health services in regional areas. His own struggles with eyesight and the long wait for treatment have only reinforced his concerns about access to specialist care in smaller towns.

Candid, humorous, and never afraid to speak his mind, he continues to be an active presence in the Hinchinbrook community, and newcomer or not, Jim Hodge has found his place in Ingham.

The Second World War also left its mark on the region. In December 1942, the American B24 bomber Texas Terror crashed on Mount Straloch, killing all on board – five crew members and seven passengers. Cardwell later became home to the Battle of the Coral Sea memorial, commemorating the fierce battle fought in 1942 against the Japanese by US allies just 800 metres off the Queensland coast.

Post-war developments saw gradual population growth and economic changes. In 1961, the Cardwell Shire Council area had a population of 5,183, and by 1967 the Queensland Government called for applications for the development of a tourist resort at Cape Richards; consequently, Hinchinbrook Island Proprietary Limited were granted the lease. The current jetty – the third constructed at Cardwell – was officially opened in July 1969. Hinchinbrook Island itself, recognised as Australia’s largest island National Park, spans 52 km in length and 10 km in width, with its highest peak, Mt Bowen, reaching 1,142 metres.

Texas Terror: There were heavy storms around Ingham and Cardwell that morning, and the crew would not be expecting such big peaks as those found on Hinchinbrook while flying over the sea. Although coastal residents reported seeing a flash on Mt Straloch on the day of the crash, and later sugar mill workers reported seeing sunlight flash off pieces of metal just below the summit, the search for the "Texas Terror" was concentrated further north.

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Lucinda Coast Guard will be conducting a Marine Radio Licence course for members of the public at the Lucinda Base, 19 Patterson Parade, Lucinda, on Saturday, 27th September. It is a legal requirement to hold a marine radio licence if you have a marine radio installed on your boat.

The course covers both LROCP (Long Range Operator Certificate of Proficiency) for HF radios and SROCP (Short Range Operator Certificate of Proficiency) for VHF radios. It begins at 8:15am and runs for approximately 7 hours. Please bring your own lunch, tea and coffee will be available.

The course costs $100 and bookings are essential. To reserve your place, please contact Rex on 0439 079 922.

Hello Everyone,

Welcome to the 37th issue of Hinchinbrook Life! It’s hard to believe we’ve been producing your free weekly newspaper for over six months now – and what an incredible journey it’s been!

We’re proud to bring back a local newspaper to the region. Our passion shines through in everything we do – from our journalist Victoria out gathering stories and snapping photos, to our sales manager Sherie, who works closely with local businesses to meet their marketing needs. And behind the scenes, our central office team helps bring it all together each week.

For those new to our story, Life Publishing Group is an independent, locally-owned business. We’ve been publishing magazines for nearly 15 years and added weekly newspapers five years ago – right when many printed publications were shutting down, we took the opposite path and grew.

What started as one paper has grown into five weekly mastheads. Our mission is simple: to connect communities, provide a free local voice in print, and give businesses a platform they can be proud of.

Local businesses have been at the heart of this journey from day one. Their support makes it possible for us to deliver this paper to you free each week.

If you’re a business owner, we’d love to see your ad here. You’ll get free design, strong local exposure, and a real sense of pride in supporting something truly local.

And to our readers – take a moment to check out those ads. Shop local, support the businesses that support your newspaper – and be sure to mention where you saw them!

Thank you for your continued support – it means the world.

Rach