• The Crisafulli Government is launching a new international prize for eight high-achieving Queensland students and two teachers.
• Successful applicants will fly to London to visit the birthplace of Westminster democracy and will undertake trips to Canberra and Brisbane parliaments.  
• Applications for the inaugural program open on Monday 18 May to Queensland Year 9 students.  
• The Crisafulli Government is delivering a plan for Queensland’s future and supporting the State’s students and teachers.  

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The Crisafulli Government is delivering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Queensland students and teachers to experience the birthplace of parliamentary democracy through a prestigious education prize.  

Launching today, the Westminster Prize is open to all Year 9 students across Queensland’s state schools, non-state schools, and homeschool settings who have a strong interest in civics and citizenship.  

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It’s just one of the ways the Crisafulli Government is delivering a plan for Queensland’s future after a decade of decline under Labor.

Eight successful students will fly to London next year with two teacher chaperones to experience first-hand aspects of the Westminster system of government, which is the foundation of Australia’s parliamentary democracy.

The prize also includes trips to Canberra and Brisbane parliaments where students will gain valuable knowledge, insights and experiences with Australia’s political system.  

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The Westminster Prize is a new initiative from the Crisafulli Government and adds to existing excellence programs including the Premier’s ANZAC Prize, the Premier’s Reading Challenge and the Peter Doherty Awards.  

Minister for Education John-Paul Langbroek said the Westminster Prize aimed to strengthen Queensland students’ understanding of civics, citizenship and democratic participation.

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“This exciting new program offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for our students to travel to London, Canberra and Brisbane to learn about our rich history and political system,” Minister Langbroek said.

“Today’s students are our future leaders, and the Crisafulli Government’s new Westminster Prize is a fantastic opportunity for them to travel, explore and deepen their understanding of democratic values.

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“Through the Westminster Prize, the eight students will grow their understanding of Queensland’s parliamentary system, Australia’s federal democracy and the Westminster model in the UK.

“As well as their travels, the prize winners will deliver a local civics project focused on a community issue, applying their learning to real-world contexts.”

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British Consul General for Queensland and the Northern Territory Richard Cowin said he was delighted to support the fantastic initiative.

“This exciting award gives students an amazing opportunity to see how the Westminster system works in real life and to experience the democratic traditions that connect the UK and Australia,” Mr Cowin said.

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“In a fast-changing world, understanding our shared values and approaches is more important than ever.

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“This prize will enable a lucky group of young Queenslanders to experience these principles firsthand and draw on them throughout their lives.”

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Applications to be part of the inaugural Westminster Prize open on 18 May and close 31 July, with interviews and selection in August and September.

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For more information, visit the website.  

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Hi Readers,

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After chatting about the J.L. Kelly Theatre in my last column, I thought I’d talk about another space that means a lot to our community: the TYTO Precinct.

Originally, this area was part of the lower Herbert River floodplain, a landscape of wetlands and lagoons, and importantly, the traditional land of the Nywaigi people. It was a vital natural resource for food and water.

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The TYTO Precinct has progressed from those natural wetlands into a place where locals and visitors come together, combining nature, culture and community all in one place.

The idea in Hinchinbrook Shire Council and with the community was to create something that would support tourism while also giving locals a space to gather and connect. With support from the State Government through the Q150 program, construction began in 2008.

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By 2009, the first stage was complete, with the viewing tower, community spaces and parklands. It continued to grow, with the library, art gallery, visitor information centre and outdoor event spaces all becoming part of what TYTO offers today, while keeping that strong connection to the wetlands.

It’s a fantastic space for events such as weddings, Tasman Turtle picnic day, conferences and plenty of other community activities. It also continues to attract birdwatchers and visitors right throughout the year.

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The floods in 2025 caused some closures and damage, but it’s great to see the precinct back up and running and continuing to play such an important role in our community.

From wetlands to a busy community hub, TYTO is a big part of life here in the Hinchinbrook.

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If you haven’t been there for a while, do yourself a favour and take the time to visit. The library, art displays, local information and community spaces are things we are lucky to have. And while you’re there, make sure you grab a photo with Tiddalik the Frog.

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Also coming up, 31 July will see the opening of the 11th Hinchinbrook Birdlife Art Awards – don’t miss that one. I’ll see you there.

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Herbert River Crushers President Matt Chiesa, Legends of Legue’s Craig Teevan, Mayor Ramon Jayo, Legends of Legue’s Troy Byers, Crusher’s Rhys Swarbrick, and Crusher’s Sarah Castles, together in front of the mural at the Hinchinbrook Shire Council offices. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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Hinchinbrook is set to take centre stage this winter, with rugby league greats heading to Ingham for a major community event that promises to bring excitement on and off the field. The International Legends of League will draw former stars from across Australia, giving locals a rare chance to see some of the game’s biggest names up close. With a mix of school visits, community activities and a headline exhibition match, the event is expected to attract strong crowds while delivering a boost to grassroots sport, local businesses and community pride across the region.

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FOOTY LEGENDS TO FIRE UP HINCHINBROOK THIS JULY

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Footy fever is set to hit Hinchinbrook when former rugby league legends take the field in Ingham this July as part of a four‑day community event.

Running from 15-18 July 2026, the event will culminate in a Saturday exhibition match, the first International Legends of League event in the Hinchinbrook Shire.

Hinchinbrook Shire Council is backing the event, which will see an Australian Legends team, including several former North Queensland Cowboys, compete against a local All Stars Legends team.  

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The Australian Legends team will be made up of high profile former NRL, State of Origin and Test rugby league players.

Hinchinbrook Shire Council Mayor Ramon Jayo said the event would deliver important social, sporting and economic benefits to the region.

“Footy is part of the fabric of our community, and events like this give us the chance to celebrate that while also delivering real benefits for our young people and local clubs,” Mayor Jayo said.

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“Having the Legends of League in Hinchinbrook puts our region again in the spotlight after the successful Tones and I concert in February. It just shows what we can achieve when community, sport and tourism come together.”

As part of the visit, players will undertake school visits, sharing messages around teamwork, resilience, respect and healthy lifestyles.

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International Legends of League Founder Craig Teevan said the Hinchinbrook event was a significant milestone for the organisation.

“This will be our 102nd Legends of League event, but our first time bringing the legends to Hinchinbrook, and we’re really excited about it,” Mr Teevan said.  “We use the profiles of former players to engage with young people, support grassroots rugby league and deliver lasting positive outcomes for regional communities.”

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A Corporate Day will be held on Friday 17 July, featuring a Bowls Day and Dinner, offering local businesses the opportunity to get involved while supporting grassroots sport.

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Herbert River Crushers Rugby League Club President Matt Chiesa said the event would be a major boost for local rugby league.

“This is a huge opportunity for our club and for the wider rugby league community in Hinchinbrook,” Mr Chiesa said.  

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“Not only will fans get to see legends of the game up close, but the funds raised will go straight back into grassroots footy where it’s needed most.”

Game day on Saturday 18 July will feature a full program of rugby league action, including local men’s, women’s and junior games, before the headline Legends clash.

Visiting teams from outside the region are expected to travel to Hinchinbrook, providing a boost to local accommodation and hospitality businesses.  

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All food and beverage sales on game day will stay in the community, along with a percentage of gate takings, ensuring the event delivers direct benefits to local rugby league and community groups.

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Corporate partnership packages are now open, with businesses across the region encouraged to take part. For corporate enquiries, contact Craig Teevan on 0412 627 497. Further event details will be announced in coming weeks.

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Sun Monroe in Coast Guard uniform. Photo supplied

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Lucinda Coast Guard volunteers are greatly saddened by the passing of one of our own, Sue Monroe, after a long and debilitating battle with cancer.

Sue has been a dedicated volunteer for many years, performing vital Radio Operator duties as well as being the Stores Officer. Sue always enjoyed being on the Coast Guard float each year for the Maraka Festival.

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Sue will be greatly missed by all at Lucinda Coast Guard.

Contributed with thanks by Steve Whipps of the QF-14 Lucinda Coast Guard

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The Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) will undertake planned burning in Hinchinbrook Island National Park as part of its annual conservation and hazard reduction program.

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The burn will use aerial ignition on sections of the island adjacent to the Thorsborne Trail. The Thorsborne Trail and campsites will remain open during this time.

Due to the complexity of the operation, burning will occur on a suitable day during May, subject to weather and operational conditions. Smoke may be visible in nearby areas including Lucinda, Cardwell, and along the Bruce Highway.

Visitors to the park are advised to follow all signage and directions from QPWS Rangers and to avoid entering closed areas. Motorists should take care when travelling in smoky conditions and be aware of firefighting activity.

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Planned burns play an important role in maintaining ecosystem health, supporting biodiversity, and reducing the risk and intensity of bushfires. These operations are weather-dependent and may result in smoke lingering in some areas.

Only a portion of the landscape is burnt at any one time. This helps to create a mosaic pattern of burnt and unburnt areas that increases the opportunity for safer and more successful response to bushfires while supporting plant regeneration and protecting important habitat for wildlife.

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If affected by smoke, residents are advised to stay indoors with windows and doors closed and keep any necessary respiratory medication close by.

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For updates on park conditions and fire activity, visit Park Alerts or follow Qld Park Alerts online. For more information, contact QPWS at Hinchinbrook@detsi.qld.gov.au

Public safety is the highest consideration in all QPWS fire management activities, visit the Fire management webpage.

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

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Community members are being encouraged to share their experiences to help shape Cassowary Coast Regional Council’s first Disability Inclusion and Accessibility Plan. Photo supplied

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The Cassowary Coast is set to become a more accessible and inclusive region, with Cassowary Coast Regional Council announcing the development of its first Disability Inclusion and Accessibility Plan.

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The initiative marks a significant milestone for the region, where the proportion of residents living with disability is higher than the state average, and has been identified as a priority under Council’s Corporate and Operational Plan 2025–2030.

The need for improved accessibility was also reinforced through the 2024 MARKYT Community Scorecard, which highlighted inclusion as a key area for improvement.

The new plan will guide future decision-making across a range of areas, including community events, infrastructure, placemaking and Council processes, ensuring they better reflect the diverse needs of the community.

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To help shape the plan, Council is working alongside Inclusive Consulting, an independent expert in accessibility and inclusion, and is calling on residents to share their experiences and ideas.

Mayor Teresa Millwood said community input would be critical to the plan’s success.

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“This is a great opportunity for our community to come together and shape a plan that will make the Cassowary Coast a more inclusive and accessible place for everyone,” she said.

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“We want to hear from as many people as possible. Your experiences and insights are vital to this process.”

Residents, including people with lived experience of disability, carers, support workers and other stakeholders, are encouraged to take part by attending upcoming workshops or completing an online survey.

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Feedback will play a key role in ensuring the final plan reflects real community needs and helps build a region where everyone feels supported, welcome and empowered.

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Community consultation is open until 8 May 2026, with surveys available online, at Council libraries and customer service centres.

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‘As a mother herself, Lacey understands the weight behind even the simplest gestures.’ Photo supplied

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This Mother’s Day, Buck Wild Country Store is offering something a little different - bringing together its signature western style with the simple, meaningful gesture of fresh flowers. It’s a new chapter for the local store, where boots and western fashion now sit alongside carefully curated fresh blooms, all under one roof.

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For owner Lacey Long, the shift into floristry didn’t come from nowhere. It came from community.

“Gail from Heaven Scent gently handed her pruning scissors over to me,” Lacey says. “And with that, I stepped into a new chapter.”

It’s a passing of knowledge, trust, and heart - something that feels deeply rooted in small-town life.

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“In a place like this, everything feels more personal,” she adds. “Flowers aren’t just something you give, they carry meaning. They say the things you don’t always know how to.”

As a mother herself, Lacey understands the weight behind even the simplest gestures, how something as small as flowers can hold love, gratitude and everything in between.

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With fresh flowers now available daily, Buck Wild Country has become more than a place to shop, it’s somewhere locals can find something meaningful. Whether it’s a last-minute bunch or something a little more considered.

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This Mother’s Day, it’s about keeping it simple, personal, and close to home. A beautiful bouquet, a gift she’ll love, and a gesture that won’t be forgotten.

Walk in, call, or organise delivery—they’ve got you covered.

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Find Buck Wild Country Store at 25 Palm Terrace, Ingham, or call 0411 544 090 to order.

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New owner Melissa with Chanel and Rachael. Photo credit: Beauty on Lannercost

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There’s a new energy at Beauty on Lannercost, with new owner Melissa stepping into the space and bringing with her a wealth of experience and a clear vision for what’s next.

Her focus is on building on the strong foundation already in place. “My vision is to continue the beautiful products and services that Rebecca has thoughtfully provided to the community, while also introducing a range of elevated day spa experiences.”

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Melissa’s background spans luxury day spas across Australia and internationally, most recently in the Hunter Valley. “Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to work in environments delivering high-quality treatments focused on relaxation, restoration and overall wellbeing,” she said. “At the heart of my work is a simple belief, when your body feels good, everything flows.”

She is joined by a highly experienced team, with Chanel bringing 6–7 years in the beauty industry and a strong focus on facials and waxing, while Rachael offers more than 30 years of experience and deep knowledge in skin health. “Together, we work seamlessly as a team to provide a welcoming, professional and personalised experience for every client,” Melissa said.

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With Mother’s Day approaching, the team is encouraging locals to give the gift of time and care. Gift vouchers, packages and in-salon treatments are available, from facials and massages to brows and beauty essentials designed to help Mum unwind.

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“We look forward to welcoming you in and being part of your wellness journey,” Melissa said.

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If Mother’s Day has crept up and you’re not quite sure where to start, News Extra Ingham has made it easy. This year, the store is packed wall-to-wall with gift ideas, turning a simple shop visit into a one-stop destination for everything Mum could love.

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From the moment you walk in, it’s clear the Mother’s Day range has arrived in full. Shelves are filled with thoughtful pieces, from beautifully designed greeting cards and wrapping paper to candles, diffusers and delicate bracelets. There’s even a charming collection of teapot sets and matching accessories for those who love a quiet cuppa, alongside sweet treats including chocolates and lollies for a little extra indulgence.

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For mums who enjoy time in the kitchen, the range of resin-poured boards offers something both practical and beautiful, perfect for entertaining or everyday use. And for those who appreciate a signature scent, there’s no shortage of options to create a calming, welcoming space at home.

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What makes News Extra Ingham stand out is the variety. Whether you’re putting together a full gift package or searching for that one finishing touch, there’s something here to suit every personality and budget. With new products arriving regularly, there’s always something fresh to discover.

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This Mother’s Day, take the guesswork out of gifting and find it all in one place. Visit News Extra Ingham at 56 Lannercost Street, or follow along on Facebook to see the latest arrivals and inspiration.

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At Mandy’s Beauty in the Bush, Mother’s Day is more than a date on the calendar, it’s a feeling. A moment to slow down, connect, and honour the people who shape our lives, both those beside us and those we carry with us in memory.

This year’s Love Blooms Here collection is inspired by something simple and meaningful, sharing a cup of tea and a quiet catch-up with loved ones. It’s in those gentle, unhurried moments that connection grows, and as Mandy reflects, “we bloom together.” It’s also in these moments that we remember, creating space to honour those who are no longer with us, but remain part of our story.

The collection captures that sentiment in every piece. From fresh floral arrangements to preserved roses, each creation is designed to express gratitude, warmth and reflection. Beautifully curated gift packs, delicate potpourri and handcrafted floral resin art offer something lasting, a way to hold onto memories while celebrating the present.

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What makes Mandy’s work so special is the intention behind it. Every arrangement is created by hand, with care and emotion at its core. Whether it’s for Mum, a grandmother, an aunt, or someone who has always been there, each piece becomes a quiet tribute to love in all its forms.

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There’s also a little extra reason to visit, with customers who spend $30 or more going into the draw for special Mother’s Day prizes.

This Mother’s Day, Mandy’s Beauty in the Bush offers a gentle way to celebrate, remember, and reconnect, with love that truly blooms here.

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For I Love Boutique, it’s all about celebrating the people who make life a little brighter. Whether it’s a partner, a best friend, a mentor, or someone who simply deserves to feel appreciated, this is where thoughtful gifting comes naturally.

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Step inside and you’ll find a carefully curated range designed to make every person feel a little more special. From iconic wardrobe pieces you won’t find anywhere else to statement jewellery, signature perfumes, and bold patterns and prints. I Love is about helping you find something that feels personal, not generic.

Every item is chosen with individuality in mind, ready for you to walk in and exclaim ‘Oh this will be perfect for them!’  

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For those looking to complete the perfect gift, I Love Boutique also offers stylish shoes, hats, and even cheeky drink mixes for a fun finishing touch. It’s the kind of place where inspiration strikes as soon as you walk through the door.

To make gifting even easier, free gift wrapping is available in store, ensuring every purchase feels personal, polished and ready to impress from the moment it’s handed over.

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I Love is a destination for finding something a little different, or a little quirky, something that says you were thinking of them.

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Find their fit, their style, and their spark at I Love Boutique, where gifting is an experience in itself, and every piece is chosen to help you make someone feel truly special.

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As Mother’s Day approaches, Fiori With Love offers a gentle reminder to slow down, breathe, and celebrate the women who mean the most. Surrounded by seasonal blooms and soft natural light, the space feels like a quiet escape into nature, right in the heart of Ingham, where time slows just enough to enjoy the moment.

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At Fiori With Love, Mother’s Day is about connection in every form. Whether it’s “do it for Mum” with a beautifully arranged bouquet, or “do it with Mum” over a shared experience, the café and florist work together to create something thoughtful and memorable. Fresh and everlasting floral arrangements are available for gifting, each designed to reflect care, beauty and meaning. Alongside this, a curated range of boutique gifts and homewares makes it easy to find something personal for every kind of mum.

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This year, Fiori With Love will also be hosting a special Mother’s Day morning tea in the café, inviting families and friends to gather, slow down and celebrate together. With limited seating available, bookings are essential to secure a table for this popular occasion.

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More than just a destination for flowers and gifts, Fiori With Love is a place to pause. It’s where choosing a bouquet becomes a moment of reflection, and where time spent together feels just as meaningful as the gift itself.

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This Mother’s Day, come to Fiori With Love for flowers, gifts and treats, and take the opportunity to truly celebrate the people who matter most. To book a table or order flowers, call Louise on 07 4776 2362.

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Nominations for the Queensland Landcare Awards will close on Friday, 31 July. Photo source: Shutterstock

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Nominations are now open for the 2026 Queensland Landcare Awards, recognising the everyday Queenslanders making a difference in their local environments.

The biennial awards celebrate individuals, groups and organisations dedicated to restoring bushland, protecting waterways, improving soil health, caring for coastlines and supporting sustainable environmental practices across the state.

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From volunteer groups regenerating creeks to farming families trialling innovative approaches, schools introducing students to landcare, and First Nations organisations caring for Country, the awards highlight the wide range of contributions being made at a grassroots level.

Nominations are free and open to everyone, including self-nominations, with entries closing on Friday, 31 July, 2026.

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Award categories span a diverse range of areas, including innovation, sustainable agriculture and community partnerships, reflecting the many ways Queenslanders are working to protect and enhance the natural environment.

The Queensland Landcare Awards are considered a prestigious state program, shining a spotlight on those driving real, on-the-ground change in their communities — not in distant locations, but right across regional and rural Queensland.

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Winners in selected categories will progress as finalists to the 2027 National Landcare Awards, to be held in Adelaide, South Australia, providing an opportunity for local efforts to gain national recognition.

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Community members are encouraged to nominate individuals or groups making a positive impact, or to put forward their own work.

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For more information or to submit a nomination, visit the Landcare Australia website at www.landcareaustralia.org.au/awards.

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Community Safety Must Always Come First

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Following a serious dog attack on 15 March 2025, where a member of our community sustained significant injuries requiring extensive hospitalisation, Council lawfully acted to seize and destroy the two dogs involved under the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act, with community safety as its primary consideration.

On 17 April 2025, Council issued a combined dangerous dog declaration and destruction order. This decision was not taken lightly. It was based on detailed evidence, expert assessments, and Council’s clear legal obligation to act where there is an ongoing risk to public safety.

The dog owner exercised the right to challenge that decision. An internal review was undertaken and completed on 2 May 2025, confirming Council’s original determination

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The dog owner, unhappy with Council’s decision, appealed to the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT), triggering a process that took 12 months to conclude. Hearings were not held until January and March 2026.

This matter has imposed a cost of over $70,000 on local ratepayers, a burden created not by Council’s actions, but by a legislative framework that permits lengthy and costly legal challenges, even when decisions are made lawfully to protect public safety.

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Rather than being invested in frontline community services or local infrastructure, these public funds were spent because Council was legally compelled to defend a public safety decision through an inefficient and protracted review process following a serious dog attack.

Ratepayers deserve transparency about why this occurred and why the current system allows it to happen.

Throughout this extended period, Council was legally required to securely house the dogs and engage legal representation, expert witnesses, and operational staff to meet statutory obligations.

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Although the owner was self‑represented, Council had no discretion to reduce its involvement or limit escalating costs.

The system requires full participation by local governments regardless of cost, complexity or impact on ratepayers.

This outcome does not reflect a failure of Council decision‑making. It reflects a failure of the legislative and review framework.

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Current dangerous dog and QCAT processes allow serious public safety decisions —supported by evidence and upheld through internal review — to be delayed for extended periods at substantial public expense.

Councils are left to absorb these costs simply for doing what the law already requires them to do: protecting the community.

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While access to review rights is important, those rights must be timely, proportionate, and balanced against the public interest. A system that enables year‑long delays and tens of thousands of dollars in ratepayer costs in clear‑cut public safety matters is not fit for purpose.

Council is calling for urgent State Government review and reform of the dangerous dog legislative and tribunal framework, particularly in cases involving demonstrated risk to community safety.

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Local governments and their residents should not be expected to underwrite prolonged legal challenges where public safety is clearly at stake.

Despite these systemic shortcomings, Council will not compromise on safety.

Community safety is not optional.

This incident also highlights the importance of responsible pet ownership.

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When dogs are not properly controlled, the consequences are serious and long‑lasting. Victims carry the impact, and community confidence in public safety is undermined.

This matter was about accountability and reinforcing that dangerous behaviour will not be tolerated. The appeal process has now been exhausted, and the confirmed orders have been carried out.

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While the outcome is regrettable, it reflects the seriousness of the incident and Council’s obligation to act, even when the system makes doing so costly, time‑consuming and unnecessarily difficult.

Proceedings relating to the dogs have concluded. Criminal proceedings against the owner remain ongoing. Owner responsibility is the central issue and is appropriately before the courts.

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Dangerous animal laws exist to prevent harm, and when responsibility fails, accountability must follow. Council’s actions reflect the real and lasting impact incidents like this have on victims and on the wider community.

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ANZAC Day services across Hinchinbrook and Cardwell drew strong community attendance, with locals gathering to pause, reflect, and honour those who have served. From the Dawn Service in Ingham to ceremonies at Forrest Beach and Halifax, the day was marked with respect and remembrance.

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Hinchinbrook MP Wayde Chiesa said it was an honour to attend services across the region and deliver the main address in Cardwell, noting the strong turnout as a powerful reminder that the ANZAC spirit remains as strong as ever.

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“It was incredibly special to see so many people come together to pause, reflect, and remember.” He said, “ANZAC Day is about honouring the courage, sacrifice and service of the men and women who have served our country, and ensuring their legacy continues for future generations.”

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See more photos from the HInchinbrook ANZAC Day Service here: https://www.hinchinbrooklife.com/social-pics/anzac-day-hinchinbrook-service

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Hinchinbrook ANZAC Day Service Part 2: https://www.hinchinbrooklife.com/social-pics/anzac-day-hinchinbrook-service-part-2

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See more photos from teh Cardwell ANZAC Day Service here: https://www.hinchinbrooklife.com/social-pics/cardwell-anzac-day-service