
The Port Hinchinbrook Provisional Priority Development Area covers approximately 140 hectares near Cardwell and is intended to guide the site’s transformation into a tourism, commercial and residential precinct.Work is progressing at Port Hinchinbrook, with early remediation efforts now underway as part of the Queensland Government’s plan to restore the long-troubled site. Hinchinbrook MP Wayde Chiesa said the project is moving forward following a commitment made during the recent by-election. “The Government made a commitment during the Hinchinbrook by-election to get on with fixing Port Hinchinbrook, and that work is now underway,” Mr Chiesa said. Initial works have included the clean-up of silting ponds, construction of all-weather access tracks, and repairs to the bund wall to prevent sediment leeching. These works were recently completed by Civil Plus. Port Hinchinbrook Restoration Moves Forward With Early Works Underway In the coming weeks, QBuild is expected to begin work on site, focusing on repairing dilapidated buildings and infrastructure to ensure safety at Port Hinchinbrook. Mr Chiesa said the next stage of the project will involve appointing a lead consultant, a process which is already well advanced. “The next step is the appointment of the lead consultant, which is well advanced and who will oversee the remaining technical investigations, secure required approvals, and appoint the dredging contractor as a priority,” he said. Dredging remains a key focus of the project, with works aimed at restoring navigability and addressing long-standing sedimentation issues within the waterways. “As the community would appreciate, when an issue has been left unresolved for such a long time, it is essential that the proper investigations and approvals are undertaken so the job is done properly,” Mr Chiesa said. “That said, the dredging to remediate the site remains the priority.” The Port Hinchinbrook Provisional Priority Development Area (PPDA), declared in November 2025, covers approximately 140 hectares near Cardwell and is intended to guide the site’s transformation into a tourism, commercial and residential precinct. The project aims to reinstate safe marine access, address environmental concerns such as siltation, and unlock opportunities for private investment, while supporting long-term economic growth in the region. The site has faced ongoing challenges since the impacts of Cyclone Yasi in 2011, with infrastructure damage and environmental issues limiting its use. Economic Development Queensland (EDQ) is overseeing the project, which includes a Provisional Land Use Plan to coordinate development and infrastructure. Mr Chiesa said community members can access further information or ask questions via the EDQ project page. “This is a positive step forward, and I look forward to providing regular updates to the community as we progress towards commencing dredging later in the year,” he said. Project delivery is expected to continue through to 2028. Caption PG 11: The project aims to reinstate safe marine access, address environmental concerns such as siltation, and unlock opportunities for private investment, while supporting long-term economic growth in the region.
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A new group of dedicated volunteers has officially joined the ranks of the State Emergency Service, following a graduation ceremony held in Ingham celebrating both new recruits and long-serving members. Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa attended the event on behalf of Minister Dan Purdie, congratulating those stepping into the vital community role. “Congratulations to our newest SES recruits who have officially joined the ranks,” Mr Chiesa said. “Choosing to volunteer your time to support others in their moments of need says a lot about your character, and our community is stronger because of people like you.” The ceremony also recognised members receiving long service awards, acknowledging years of commitment and countless call-outs, often in challenging conditions. “To those who received long service awards, your years of dedication, commitment and service do not go unnoticed. You represent the very best of our community,” he said. The SES plays a critical role across the Hinchinbrook region, particularly during severe weather, floods and emergency situations. What sets the service apart is its volunteer base, locals who step forward to help when it matters most. Mr Chiesa also acknowledged the families and supporters behind the volunteers, recognising the important role they play in enabling members to serve. For those considering joining, the SES offers a wide range of opportunities. Roles vary from operational work such as chainsaw use and flood boat operations, to incident management, community education and team support. With positions suited to different skills and abilities, the focus is on commitment and a willingness to help. Residents interested in becoming part of the SES are encouraged to register their interest online or reach out to learn more about the roles available: www.ses.qld.gov.au/form/become-an-ses-member Caption: Latest S.E.S. graduates and long service awards celebrated in Ingham. Photo credit: Wayde Chiesa’s Offices
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Cassowary Coast Regional Council has moved a step closer to reshaping its community housing network, accepting an expert evaluation panel’s unanimous recommendation to appoint North Queensland-based provider Regional Housing Ltd to own and manage 10 funded freehold properties. The decision forms part of Council’s broader divestment of its community housing portfolio, aligning with its Corporate Plan and Local Housing Action Plan 2024–2029. The move aims to ensure housing services are delivered by experienced, specialised providers with the capacity to sustainably grow the network and support more residents into secure housing. The divestment process followed a comprehensive three-stage expression of interest (EOI) process, launched on 31 October 2025, which attracted strong interest from across the sector. Thirteen applicants progressed through the initial stage, which focused on mandatory qualification checks, before nine moved on to submit detailed proposals. Those submissions were assessed on their ability to deliver and expand tenant and housing services, manage existing and future assets, engage with the community, maintain probity, demonstrate financial viability, and support local employment and services. The final stage now involves Council resolution, Queensland Government approval, and the execution of transfer and funding agreements. Cassowary Coast Mayor Teresa Millwood said Regional Housing Ltd stood out as a highly capable organisation with a strong regional focus. “Regional Housing Ltd is an impressive applicant with a strong track record of housing development in a significant number of regional areas across Queensland, to a high standard,” Mayor Millwood said. “Their submission highlighted a strong commitment to the Cassowary Coast region, with an existing development application in the pipeline, employment of a dedicated housing officer from day one of the transfer of the portfolio, and the opening a local office that will employ additional staff as the regional portfolio grows.” Mayor Millwood said ensuring stability for tenants throughout the transition remained a key priority. “We will work very closely with the incumbent and new provider to ensure there are minimal disruptions for tenants, that tenants’ rights are protected in accordance with existing policies and legislation, and that prospective new tenants benefit from new community housing coming online in the future,” Mayor Millwood said. “Supporting the growth of community housing in our region and ensuring more people have a place to call home is part of our vision for ensuring the Cassowary Coast is the most liveable tropical community.” All applicants, including the incumbent provider, have been notified of the outcome, with final approval now resting with the Queensland Government. Council will continue progressing the divestment of the remaining properties within its community housing portfolio. CAPTION: Cassowary Coast Regional Council has backed Regional Housing Ltd to manage local community housing, aiming to expand access and ensure more residents have a place to call home. Photo supplied
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A wave of community support is building for a young Innisfail family following the sudden and heartbreaking loss of Jake Corns over the Easter weekend. News of the tragedy has deeply impacted those who knew the family, with many taking to social media to express their grief and rally behind Jake’s partner, Codie Lee, who is just weeks away from welcoming their new baby. “Absolutely heartbroken for Codie Lee who is five weeks from having her new bub and her other two babies,” one post read. “She has just lost her best friend, and their family is now facing the unthinkable.” A GoFundMe campaign has since been launched to support Codie and her children, a 10-year-old daughter and a five-year-old son, as they navigate life without their father while preparing for the arrival of a new baby. Organisers say the fundraiser aims to ease the financial burden during an already devastating time. “We are reaching out with heavy hearts to support a young family facing an unimaginable loss,” the page states. “Jake Corn was a loving partner, a devoted father, and a cherished friend to many.” Funds raised will go towards everyday living expenses, upcoming costs for the new baby, schooling needs, and funeral and memorial expenses. Since the launch, more than $10,000 has been raised, with dozens of donations from community members, friends and local businesses. In an update shared to supporters, organiser Brenda Koolman said the generosity shown so far has made a meaningful difference. “We are overwhelmed by the love and support during this incredibly heartbreaking time after the sudden loss of Jake,” she said. “The donations raised so far are already helping to relieve the immediate stress of everyday living and allowing her to focus on the baby and her other children rather than unpaid bills.” She said funds are currently being used to cover essential costs including rent, groceries and preparing for the baby, adding that the support is giving the family “breathing room to grieve.” Community members are continuing to share the fundraiser, with many encouraging others to contribute or spread the word. “Let’s come together as a community to give this young family the support, stability, and care they so deeply need during this heartbreaking time,” the fundraiser reads. Those wishing to donate or learn more can find the fundraiser online via https://gofund.me/387089d1e. CAPTION: Community members are rallying around a young family following the sudden loss of Jake Corns, with a GoFundMe launched to support his partner and children during this heartbreaking time. Photo supplied
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The Hinchinbrook Shire Council Seniors Morning Tea, held on Friday, 6 December, was a resounding success.
More than 300 attendees gathered to enjoy a delightful morning tea, followed by outstanding performances from local talent. The event was a wonderful celebration, with festive cheer and heartfelt Christmas wishes shared, making it a truly memorable occasion for all involved.
Find More pictures at: https://www.hinchinbrooklife.com/social-pics/a-lively-seniors-morning-tea


Ingham’s Own Premier of Queensland David Crisafulli is on his way to the region to officially launch Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper at a special event due to be held at Ingham RSL this Wednesday night.
The whole community is welcome to attend the special launch celebrations where they can hear first-hand about the Premier’s journey, starting out as a Cadet Journalist for the Herbert River Express to becoming the 41st Premier of Queensland.
Beginning his professional career as a Cadet Journalist for the Herbert River Express, Ingham-born Premier David Crisafulli has strong ties to both the region and regional newspapers.
It is these ties that recently saw him graciously accept an invitation by Life Publishing Group to officially launch Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper.
The Premier completed work experience at the Herbert River Express from 1995 to 1996, he then started a full-time role in 1998 while at university and finished-up in 2000.
“As someone who started their career as a newspaper cadet in Ingham, regional media outlets hold a special place in my heart,” stated the Premier.
“The Herbert River Express taught me the value of hard work and community and allowed me to tell Queenslanders’ incredible stories.”
Crisafulli adds that regional newspapers are at the cornerstone of the community, keeping everyone connected.
“Regional media outlets provide a vital service keeping residents informed and local communities connected,” he expressed.
“I’m excited the people of Hinchinbrook will have a new local paper to showcase this incredible part of Queensland that I know and love.”
Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper printed its first publication on Tuesday 26th November this year and held an informal ‘Launch Breakfast’ for its Foundation Advertising Partners last week.
Printing 3000 copies every week and distributing throughout Ingham and surrounding townships, north to Cardwell and south to Rollingstone, this is a free newspaper available to everyone in the community from over 50 dedicated distribution stands and pick-up points.
Editor in Chief, Rachael Smith, said she is thrilled to be part of the team bringing a free newspaper to the local community.
“We are 100% dedicated to connecting regional communities through the power of print media,” shared Rachael.
“When the Mayor invited us to Ingham we immediately fell in love with the community and we instantly knew this newspaper was going to be more than words on pages – it’s about bringing the community together, giving them a local platform for their news – every community deserves this.”
Life Publishing Group has been operating for 13 years, beginning with two magazine publications and launching into the world of weekly newspapers in 2020.
Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper has been printing weekly news for over four years now and Burdekin Life Newspaper was launched in 2023, followed by Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper in November.
“In May this year we were honoured to win Best Free Newspaper in Queensland for Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper at the Queensland Country Press Awards,” said Rachael.
“Founder Bec Douthwaite and I accepted the award on the night and it was presented by the then-Leader of the Opposition David Crisafulli.
“It was an exciting moment made even more special by the fact David presented us the award.
“I was lucky enough to interview again him for a newspaper article a few months later and that’s when I told him we’d soon be starting Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper.
“It’s a huge honour to be welcoming the Premier to our launch tomorrow and I would like to personally thank him for accepting the invite!”
If you would like to attend the event simply scan the QR code and register.
Life Publishing Group is providing a drink on arrival and nibblies for all to enjoy and Ingham RSL has kindly co-sponsored the event.
https://www.eventbrite.com.au/myevent/1095685247069/invite-and-promote/

Hi Everyone,
I hope you are enjoying your new free local newspaper!
It’s an absolute pleasure to be sharing all your stories with the local community and I hope the paper is allowing you to feel more connected.
We have had an incredible response so far with our phones running hot on the day we first published the paper – most people were calling to find out where they could get their hands on a copy.
You can check out our Facebook page for the full list of locations and, make sure you give the page a ‘like’ while you’re there!
As you can see, Hinchinbrook Life is a free community newspaper, we are dedicated to making local news available to everyone in the community.
This means every printed word is free to read and so is every word published on our website – there are no pay walls.
The reason we can bring this all to you for free is because of the incredible local businesses that choose to advertise with us.
In fact, our Founding Advertising Partners, the community-minded individuals that got behind the paper before it even started, are the reason we are here at all.
I’d like to say a big thank you to this group of local businesses, we really appreciate your faith in us and your desire to help reinstate the local paper.
If you are a local business owner in the community, you can join this group of people by talking with our amazing Sales Manager Trish and booking an ad.
If you are a community member wondering how you can support this paper, the answer is simple – read about the advertisers, look at their ads, go into their businesses and buy a product or service from them.
This will continue to make this paper a success!
Rach

Carol Sanderson has been a dedicated volunteer with the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre since its establishment in 1980—an incredible 44 years of service. Over this time, she has taken on numerous roles within the organization, including receptionist, emergency relief coordinator, and provider of community information and referrals. She also contributed to the food bank and served on the board.
The Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre began as a simple community information center and has since evolved into the comprehensive service provider it is today. Carol has been a constant presence through this journey, embracing change with a cheerful and friendly attitude.
Beyond her work with the Centre, Carol volunteers with other community organizations, such as Ingham Palliative Care, and previously dedicated 20 years as a Scout Leader. For Carol, volunteering is a way to stay engaged and connected.
"It’s the best thing to do instead of sitting at home feeling sorry for yourself. I’m getting out and meeting a lot of nice people," she said.
When asked about the challenges of volunteering, Carol admits, "Not always being able to help everybody" is the hardest part.
Volunteers like Carol are the backbone of the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre, helping thousands of people in need every year. If you’re considering volunteering and want to make a difference in your community, we’d love to hear from you!
Contributed with thanks to Carmon Martin Community Grants Officer from Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre
Carol Sanderson has volunteered with the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre for 44 years. Photo supplied

Disaster season is here and last Thursday 28 November the Herbert River Sub Group gathered to discuss the upcoming season and re-access the plan in case of emergency.
Sergeant and Officer in Charge of Halifax Police Station Giovanni Tantalo is coordinator of the meeting.
Sergeant Tantalo said this sub-group was created from the Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG), following the 2012 disaster season.
“The idea is to get together and have a bit of a brainstorm, and if any of the wardens or any of the members can think of a problem we have had previously that might need to be addressed we can bring those issues up with the LDMG,” explained Sergeant Tantalo.
“This meeting brings together our area wardens in each of our little townships that become islands in major floods, the emergency services, any other additional personnel who may need to know information for major events, such as our food providers, fuel business owners, that type of thing.
“The best advice I can give is to look at the Council’s notice board on the web, they also have hand-out flyers. Read those and follow those steps.
Hinchinbrook Shire Council Mayor Ramon Jayo said it’s important to be prepared in disaster season.
“It is important that people understand what the risks to them are because then they can start thinking about how they will plan and prepare themselves to deal with that risk,” said Mayor Ramon Jayo.
“For instance, our most common risk here is flooding. What happens when there are floods? People are going to get isolated.
“At the council, we’ve got information which is relevant and tells us what our risks are and how best to prepare for it.
“We’re in cyclone alley, our big three disasters are cyclones, floods and storm surges.”
Sergeant and Officer in Charge of Halifax Police Station Giovanni Tantalo and Hinchinbrook Shire Council Mayor Ramon Jayo. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

On Thursday 28 November, the State Government took the first step towards restoring community safety and legislating Adult Crime, Adult Time with the introduction of the landmark, Making Queensland Safer Bill 2024.

The Making Queensland Safer Laws deliver on a key commitment to Queenslanders to turn the tide on the Youth Crime Crisis. Under the new laws, juvenile offenders who commit some of the most serious crimes will face the same penalties as adult offenders and the rights of victims will be put ahead of the rights of offenders.
With proposed amendments to the Youth Justice Act 1992, the tough provisions contained in the Bill complement plans for Gold Standard Early Intervention, crime prevention and effective rehabilitation to ensure fewer Queenslanders fall victim to crime.
Adult Crime, Adult Time offences include murder, manslaughter, unlawful striking causing death, grievous bodily harm, wounding, serious assault, home business break-ins and robbery, and dangerous operation of vehicles.
The Making Queensland Safer laws propose removing the principle of detention as a last resort and will change the way in which offenders are sentenced with courts empowered to consider an offender’s full criminal history when sentencing.
Premier David Crisafulli said restoring community safety would be the first order of business with the Making Queensland Safer Laws.
“The Making Queensland Safer Laws are the first strike back against a youth crime crisis a decade in the making,” Premier Crisafulli said.
“Where we are today is the result of decisions made a decade ago; a fresh start is what we need, Queenslanders demanded it and we are delivering it.”

A travel influencer recently put Cardwell on the digital map, creating a viral video detailing the suspected extraterrestrial nature residing within the region.
Terry’s twenty-minute YouTube video titled, “Cardwell: Is this Tiny Town Australia’s UFO Capital?” has attracted well over 67,000 views and counting, with the video prompting many locals to reminisce on their own paranormal experiences.
Terry’s inspiration to investigate the mysterious alien phenomenon came after he read many reports of strange lights flickering in the night sky, exhibiting seemingly unexplainable behaviours, and acting on his inquisitiveness, he decided to interview a handful of locals on his travels in attempt to find answers.
“Since settlement there’s been unusual stories recorded about different things in the sky, coming out of the water, and on the land,” shared Thea, organiser of Cardwell’s annual Australian UFO Festival.
“There’s one particular phenomenon that has been recorded since early settlement and it’s these two lights that travel across the sky, parallel with each other and then they will just shoot straight up, and we’ve just coined it, the Cardwell Lights.”
The northern end of Cardwell, has homed many reports over the years where residents have claimed to witness these two strange lights travelling parallel at high speeds across the sky to then suddenly shoot directly upwards into the atmosphere, leaving onlookers feeling anxious and on edge.
Similarly, foreign objects have been witnessed emerging from the ocean nearing towards Hinchinbrook Island and rapidly flying into the sky, without a trace. Described as spaceships, fisherman recall the objects suddenly flying out from the depths of the ocean below, with some experiences causing all electronic equipment on board to lose power and reception.
Above all else, the most famous interplanetary sighting was reported in January of 1966 when local farmer, George Pedley was left “frigid with fright” after witnessing a flying saucer rise at great speed from a lagoon on his Tully property.
Regardless of the countess stories and local recounts, many are confident “seeing is believing,” despite the blanketed perception being “we aren’t alone,” however, although there’s a lack of evidence proving the reality of aliens, many scientists and researchers believe it’s likely extraterrestrial life exists.
A mysterious “crop circle” found by George Pedley following a harrowing 1966 paranormal ordeal.

On Monday 6 January 2025, physical emergency dredging operations will commence at Port Hinchinbrook’s One Mile Creek to improve both recreational and essential access.
Announced on Wednesday 27 November, countless locals welcomed the news with open arms, taking to social media to express their gratitude towards the Cassowary Coast Regional Council, adding these plans have been highly anticipated across the entire boating and fishing community.
One Mile Creek has been a contentious topic of discussion for many years, with Member for Hinchinbrook, Nick Dametto, spearheading concerns for the area since 2020, outlining the necessity of developing both a long-term solution as well as actioning emergency dredging.
Scheduled for January, the dredging will extend across a four-week period with approximately 990 tonnes of material expected to be removed from the area.
In order to execute the planned operations, a 100m exclusion zone around the dredging area will be established to protect the safety of all water users, whilst stabilising the batter slopes and seabed.
The Port Hinchinbrook Boat Ramp will be closed throughout the period, with the Cassowary Coat Regional Council encouraging the community to utilise alternative boat ramp locations at Marine Parade, Meunga Creek or Fishers Creek.
A lengthy process, the Cassowary Coat Regional Council has undertaken sediment testing, analysed dredge sediment disposal sites, conducted a hydrographic survey, and met with the State Assessment and Referral Agency (SARA) prior to receiving $1.5 million in funding from the Australian Government to commence works.
“Following the receipt of a Deed of Variation from the Department of Infrastructure in October 2024, we are moving forward with this crucial project to enhance our local waterway,” shared the Cassowary Coast Regional Council.
“We want to reassure the community, that environmental considerations are a priority, and we will be managing our obligations under the Environmental Protection Act 1994 to monitor and mitigate any potential impacts.”
Although vital, the current emergency program exists as merely a short-term solution to the ongoing accessibility issues concerning One Mile Creek, Port Hinchinbrook Marina and the surrounding onshore facilities.
One Mile Creek underwent emergency dredging in 2022.
One Mile Creek was also a contentious topic of discussion in 2020.

The 58th Parliament of Queensland commenced last week as the Legislative Assembly sat for the first time under the incoming Crisafulli Government. Most of the first week was filled with ceremony and official proceedings except for Thursday when the incoming government introduced three new bills, one being the anticipated Making Queensland Safer Bill, which is set to become law before Christmas.
While the legislation is a step in the right direction, in my opinion it doesn’t go far enough. The bill takes inspiration from several of the Katter’s Australian Party’s (KAP) crime policies, like “removing detention as a last resort” and the principle of “adult crime = adult time” but fails to address the public’s calls to implement minimum mandatory sentencing and castle law.
Youth offenders must be locked up, but the fact is, our detention centres are full. Young crims are climbing over themselves to get into places like Cleveland Bay detention centre before Christmas because it’s a holiday camp. Detention should be a place to avoid, instead of plush purpose built metro facilities. I’d like to see these kids spending the Christmas holidays out in Western Queensland on a cattle station or in donga style accommodation near Urandangi serving time under KAP’s Relocation Sentencing policy.
Also, during the first week of parliament, I moved a disallowance motion to oppose incoming regulations that would make wearing a lifejacket mandatory in certain circumstances. From December 1st, boaties in vessels under 4.8 metres will be forced to wear lifejackets when boating alone or at night.
I’m all for safety, however mandating this requirement is overbearing and takes away what should be a personal responsibility. Boaties should have the right to decide if it is necessary or safe for them to wear a lifejacket or not. The regulations are not justified. What’s next, regulating floaties for everyone who decides to go swimming?
Opinion Piece
Contributed with thanks to Member for Hinchinbrook Nick Dametto
Member for Hinchinbrook Nick Dametto with his son Deekin at the official opening of the 58th State Parliament. Photo supplied

Felix Reitano of Felix Reitano Furniture & Real Estate recently became a life member of the Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ).
He was recognised for a lifetime of dedication to the real estate profession and REIQ CEO Antonia Mercorella said the real estate peak body considers this distinction for REIQ members who have shown long outstanding and meritorious service.
“Felix certainly fits the bill for the honour of Life Member, holding REIQ membership since 1992, more than three decades, and in that time proudly and exceptionally serving his community and giving back to his real estate colleagues,” Ms Mercorella said.
“He has been a great supporter of the REIQ and our advocacy efforts over the years and it’s wonderful to acknowledge his contribution and firm commitment to the REIQ family.
“Felix Reitano Furniture & Real Estate is a family business that’s not only highly respected, but after celebrating 100 years of operation, it’s woven into the fabric of the community and is an Ingham institution – dare I say, it’s become part of the furniture!
“Felix is undoubtedly a ‘people person’ who thrives off human interaction, and I wouldn’t be surprised if he knew just about everyone in his district, giving him great influence.”
Accepting the Life Member certificate in person at the REIQ Office HQ, alongside his wife Judy, Felix said he was honoured to receive the award and dedicated it to his family.
“I’m 77 years young and my son, Felix Peter, is the fourth generation in our family business, but we both always keep in mind that we are carrying the baton on behalf of those that came before us,” he said.
“I dedicate this award to my grandfather and my father who were faced with much greater challenges, yet still accomplished so much and established a business with exceptional standards and service.
“We respect and honour that tradition by living by those standards, and the REIQ has been a great support in our endeavours because its high standards match ours.
“Real estate is far more technical now than the old days when you shook hands and away you went, but with rights come responsibility and I take that responsibility seriously.”
Felix Reitano has spent nearly all of his 77 years in Ingham, leading the family business for over 45 years. As the third generation to take the helm, Felix has upheld a proud legacy of service in the Hinchinbrook district, with the business celebrating 100 years of operation in 2023.
He is a family man and active community leader, Felix was named the Hinchinbrook Shire’s Citizen of the Year in 2024, further cementing his legacy of service, dedication, and commitment to the real estate profession and his local community.
Antonia Mercorella (REIQ CEO), Felix & Judy Reitano & Peter Brewer (REIQ Chairman). Photo supplied

In January of 2014, the lives of the Williams and Fettell family were turned upside down when thirty-four-year-old mother of two, Lauri Fettell was diagnosed with breast cancer. In navigating the news of her daughter’s diagnosis, Sandra Williams discovered a way in which she could not only help her daughter, but also support so many others experiencing breast cancer, and channelled her daughter’s strength to establish The Simple Gift of a Bag.
Lauri underwent a mastectomy, and whilst in hospital recovering from the surgery, Sandra noticed the unpracticality and uncomfortableness her daughter’s drainage bag caused, and with that, she began planning for something better. Although experiencing the unthinkable, both Sandra and Lauri focused on providing other breast cancer survivors with compassion and strived to provide women across Australia with the opportunity to access the bags.
“Even while undergoing chemotherapy, my daughter Lauri would lie in bed, and ring around to try find hospitals within Australia that would like our bags as each bag gives that little bit of dignity and kindness for a person during an overwhelming time in their life and Lauri knows this as she’s lived through it, and knows exactly how the patient feels,” added Sandra.
“Our page grew bigger and so did the volunteers – the generosity of people never ceased to amaze us, and we have around sixty women who have been sewing bags, with more offering to help every day,” Sandra added.
The pair’s initiative has continued to gain traction, and today, with women sewing across Australia, ‘The Simple Gift of a Bag’ posts drainage bag covers to over eighty-eight hospitals and specialist rooms throughout the country for patients to use freely during their post operation recovery. To date, just over 30,500 bags have been handmade and donated as part of ‘The Simple Gift of a Bag’[, with both Lauri and Sandra beyond grateful for the support of the Hinchinbrook community and beyond.
“We love our connection to the Hinchinbrook community, and the businesses in Ingham, Halifax and Lucinda suburbs are so generous with gift vouchers, and prizes that we use each year for our Winter Fundraiser Raffle – it’s a very important part of our yearly fundraising campaign.”
Sandra invites anyone who may be interested in volunteering their time in support of The Simple Gift of a Bag to email sly.sis@bigpond.com.
Lauri Fettell today with her beautiful family.
John Flynn Private Hospital staff with some of the amazing bags donated by The Simple Gift of a Bag.
Fundraising for a fantastic cause, Sandra is often blown away with the community’s support.

Greetings, Hinchinbrook Residents!
It is such a privilege to be able to contribute to the Hinchinbrook Life Councillor Column. The first issue of the Hinchinbrook Life set the bar high, it was great to be able to sit down and read through what has been and will be happening throughout our Shire.
I am deeply passionate about our community, and I was thrilled to be allocated the Infrastructure Services Advisory Portfolio.
Since taking on this role, I have been eager to meet with the public, listen to your concerns, and bring your ideas back to the Mayor and Councillors. Together, we can work on initiatives that will benefit our community.
In addition to my primary responsibilities, I also sit on several other Council advisory committees and external organisations.These include Herbert River Improvement Trust (HRIT) as Deputy Chair, Hinchinbrook Road Safety Advisory Committee as Chair, Asset Management Steering Committee and the Hinchinbrook Recovery Group Infrastructure Sub-Group Chair Councillor.
Council is responsible for its infrastructure assets, however may seek reimbursement of expenditure for restoration of damaged infrastructure assets through the DRFA and NDRRA programs, subject to eligibility assessments undertaken by the Queensland Reconstruction Authority (QRA).
Recently attending a Mount Fox Community Shed Meeting gave a great opportunity to share a coffee and scones whilst catching up with and listening to the residents.
Continuing to represent Council at the Halifax Progress Association’s monthly meetings is a real honour, and I am looking forward to collaborating with the Association to support their ideas and events, including their monthly markets and yearly street party.
I am committed to being accessible and responsive to your needs. Please feel free to reach out to me with your thoughts and suggestions. Your feedback is invaluable in helping us make informed decisions that enhance our community.
I am excited about the future and the opportunity to serve you. Together, we can make Hinchinbrook an even better place to live, work, and play.
As the current crushing season draws to a close and we head towards a well-earned break with family and friends, please stay safe and take time to enjoy your Shire and what it has to offer.
Finally, I would like to wish everyone a wonderful Christmas in Hinchinbrook.

Nestled just beyond the winding, mangrove lined Hinchinbrook Channel lies Australia’s largest island national park, Hinchinbrook Island, spanning 39,00 hectares of pristine wilderness.
Fringed by the world’s most extensive coral reef system, this untouched paradise is a treasure trove of natural beauty and adventure.
A short 20 minute charter from Lucinda, located northeast of Ingham, brings you to this awe-inspiring destination.
As you draw closer, the island unveils a breathtaking tapestry of emerald rainforests cascading over rugged mountains that plunge dramatically into deserted beaches.
For the adventurous, the island features the legendary Thorsborne Trail, ranked as one of the world’s top 10 multi day hikes.
Pack your bags, embrace your sense of wonder, and prepare to uncover one of Australia’s best kept secrets and find your Hinchinbrook Way.

I am pleased to report that Council adopted the Annual Report for 2023-2024 at its monthly General Meeting held 26 November 2024. The Annual Report is a reflection on the past year, highlighting Council’s achievements and progress towards enhancing the wellbeing and advancement of our community.
The report contains a great deal of information including infrastructure projects undertaken and emerging initiatives in the maintenance, renewal and replacement of essential assets to meet demand and expectations of the community and in that regard, it was pleasing to observe, albeit very modest, the continued upward trajectory of our population statistics over the past two years.
As a key indicator of our population growth in the past year, Council was excited to welcome 49 babies at the Underwater Wonderland Baby Welcoming Ceremony, a new record for the annual baby welcoming event.
A further indicator of continuing growth was observed through the demand for additional housing reported by real estate agents in the community, reports supported by the exponential growth in property transfers occurring and building applications for new housing lodged. Applications for land reconfigurations have also risen significantly in the past year compared to the previous decade.
The report is available on Council’s website under Corporate Documents or may be purchased from Council at a cost of $40.00.
It’s time to Get Ready Hinchinbrook
Our storm season is now approaching, and it is time for us to prepare for whatever Mother Nature has in store for Hinchinbrook this summer.
We will experience flooding which may prevent us from coming to town and obtaining food. So as part of your plan, it would be essential that you have a pantry full of food to last you at least three days, just in case.
We know that in Hinchinbrook we are prone to cyclones. Do you have torches, batteries and mobile devices to recharge your phone batteries from your car plug.
Many more examples of problems you may experience and actions you should take to address such problems can be found on Council’s website under Disaster and Emergency Information as well as websites such as Get Ready Queensland. If you don’t have access to the web, then call into Council’s offices on Lannercost Street and pick up hard copies to read at home.

Ingham Motorcycles and Mowers has been owned and operated by the same family since 1994, which means the team are now celebrating their 30th year of servicing the community together.
Christine Pagliuso, current owner of Ingham Motorcycles and Mowers, bought the business from her father Franco, in 2022.
When her parents first purchased the store, it was called Ingham Motorcycles and Marine, specialising in motorcycles, boating and camping equipment. It was some years later that her father Franco sold the marine side of the business, choosing to concentrate on power equipment instead. And so, Ingham Motorcycles and Mowers was born.
Christine, now owner of the store, has been working at the store since 1998 and knows the store inside and out. She has even completed a motorcycle and small engine mechanical trade certificate. Her sister Karen works alongside her, after returning to Ingham in 2005.
“Being women in a male dominated industry has its challenges but my sister and I have been doing this for a long time and we know our products,” said Christine.
Ingham Motorcycles and Mowers has been in the Pagliuso family for over three decades and Christine believes it is due to the standard that they set.
“We maintain the same level of sales and workshop support that we always have for the local community and surrounding areas,” said Christine
“I have three full-time mechanics out there at the moment, two qualified technicians, and one third-year apprentice.
“We repair everything that we sell, plus many brands of motorcycles, mowers, generators, all the power equipment.”
“What sets us apart is our good quality honest service, reasonable rates and a quick turnaround of work.”
Christine was born and raised in the area and she loves the region, saying it is a great place to live. Above all, however, Christine loves supporting her local community, staff and customers.
Her love for the staff shines through and customers of the store always experience a warm greeting when they come through the doors.
Ingham Motorcycles and Mowers owner Christine Pagliuso. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie