Farmers, AgTech innovators and industry stakeholders in Queensland’s agricultural sector are being encouraged to take part in the first-ever First Nations-led AgTech showcase being held in North Queensland on 10-11 February 2025, with expressions of interest now open. 
 
The Millennia of Ag-Innovation event, facilitated by the Tropical North Queensland Drought Resilience Adoption and Innovation Hub (TNQ Drought Hub) in collaboration with key partners, will explore the intersection of traditional knowledge and cutting-edge agricultural technologies. 
 
The showcase held in Cairns aims to highlight groundbreaking First Nations initiatives and demonstrate how the fusion of traditional practices with modern AgTech can drive sustainable advancements across the sector.
 
TNQ Drought Hub Director Professor David Phelps said the Millennia of Ag-Innovation event, which is being funded by AgriFutures Australia, is part of a larger effort to spotlight First Nations innovation and collaboration within the industry.
 
“The Millennia of Ag-Innovation event aims to bring together First Nations farmers, contemporary producers, and AgTech developers to advance sustainable agricultural practices and showcase the innovative technologies shaping the future of our region,” said Professor Phelps. 
 
“It offers a unique opportunity for attendees to connect with key players in both the agriculture and AgTech sectors, while gaining insights into the crucial role traditional knowledge plays in promoting sustainable practices. 
 
“With a program covering livestock, cropping, and aquaculture, the event offers valuable opportunities for learning, innovation, and sustainable growth for both farmers and AgTech developers alike.”
 
The event will feature live AgTech showcases, installations and interactive workshops, culminating in a cultural evening hosted by Local Indigenous Food Enterprise Services and BushTukkaWoman, Samantha Martin with a traditional dinner and performance by the Gimuy Yidinji tribe.
 
Attendees will also explore Indigenous-led innovations at the Rainstick facility, a networking breakfast at James Cook University’s Ideas Lab, and demonstrations of TEKFARM’s cutting-edge on-farm deployments across the Cairns Hinterland.
 
The event is part of a pre-tour for evokeAG, the Asia-Pacific’s premier agricultural and food technology event, taking place in Brisbane on 18-19 February 2025.
 
Rainstick co-founder Darryl Lyons highlighted the significance of the Cairns-based showcase in attracting national delegates to Tropical North Queensland.
 
“EvokeAg is such a hub for industry connection and collaboration, so having the Millennia of Ag-Innovation event offered as a pre-tour option will help to further solidify the region’s reputation as a leader in agricultural innovation,” said Mr Lyons.
 
“It’s an exciting opportunity to welcome both national and international delegates and showcase the breadth of what Far North Queensland has to offer, including world-leading technology inspired by First Nations innovation.”
 
Professor Phelps noted that there are still opportunities to get involved with the event, whether as a presenter, sponsor, or attendee.
 
“We’re encouraging anyone interested in contributing to this one-of-a-kind event to consider the various ways you can get involved,” he said. 
 
“Whether you’re looking to be a speaker, sponsor, exhibitor, or simply attend, it provides a valuable opportunity to connect with key stakeholders and showcase the remarkable Indigenous innovation happening in Tropical North Queensland.”

EOI for sponsorship, exhibitors, and speakers is now open. Please contact Tony Matchett (TNQ Drought Hub): tony.matchett@jcu.edu.au 

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TNQ Drought Hub representatives at the 2024 evokeAG event in Brisbane earlier this year
TNQ Drought Hub Director - Professor David Phelps
The showcase aims to highlight groundbreaking First Nations initiatives and demonstrate how the fusion of traditional practices with modern AgTech can drive sustainable advancements across the sector
The event will spotlight First Nations Innovation at the Bush Tukka Park in Cairns in Feb 2025
Bush Tukka Park where the Cairns-based showcase will be taking place

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On the 26 November the Hinchinbrook Shire Council gathered in the council chambers for the November General Meeting.

During the meeting, Hinchinbrook Shire Council adopted the 2023-2024 Annual Report, showcasing a year of achievements, community resilience, and forward thinking strategies to support growth and prosperity in the region.

Highlights of the year included the successful delivery of vital infrastructure projects, vibrant community initiatives, and plans to address key challenges such as housing demand and workforce development.

The report reflects Council’s dedication to enhancing liveability and economic opportunities while preserving the Shire’s natural beauty.

Key achievements included:

• Infrastructure upgrades - projects such as the Orient Road Water Main Extension, Herbert Street revitalisation, and Forrest Beach drainage improvements have strengthened the region’s resilience and liveability

• Population growth – Council welcomed 49 new babies at the Underwater Wonderland Baby Welcoming Ceremony, the highest in the event’s history, reflecting an upward population trend

• Sustainability initiatives - rooftop solar installations and a new waste cell at Warrens Hill Landfill and Resource Recovery Centre are advancing Council’s sustainability goals

• Economic development - the Local Housing Strategy and Development Incentive Schemes are paving the way for new housing projects to meet community needs.

Mayor Ramon Jayo expressed pride in the Shire’s progress, stating, “This year has been one of collaboration and innovation, as we strive to make Hinchinbrook a destination of choice for residents and visitors. With events, increased housing developments, and a commitment to sustainability, we are shaping a stronger future for our community.”

Council acknowledged the hurdles faced during the year, including skilled workforce shortages and rising operational costs. Innovative solutions, such as the development of a Regional University Hub and targeted training programs, aim to bridge these gaps while fostering local talent.

The report highlights the success of marquee events like Tasman Turtle’s Big Day Out, Mega Movie Weekends and Queensland Seniors Week, which brought residents together in celebration and strengthened the Shire’s vibrant community identity.

As Hinchinbrook continues to grow, Council is committed to transparency, accountability, and working together with stakeholders to meet future needs.

To view the 2023-2024 Annual Report, please visit Council’s website, Corporate Publications and Reports page.

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Hinchinbrook Shire Councillors and Mayor at the November General Meeting. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Last Tuesday the first edition of Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper was launched and, to thank all the Founding Advertising Partners for their support, the newspaper hosted a special celebratory breakfast at Lee’s Hotel in Ingham.

Attendees were among the first to cast their eyes on the new Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper, and local Journalist Daniel Heggie said he was thrilled by the response.

“It is great to hear the wonderful comments, and we hope to continue to provide this level of gratification every week,” he shared.

Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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As Christmas approaches and the time to be with family arrives Mick’s Bread Kitchen is ready to cater for all your needs.

This holiday season Mick’s Bread Kitchen is offering various Christmas treats to get the community in the festive spirit.

The moist and flavourful Christmas fruit cake is bound to be a popular choice, they also have rum balls, apricot balls, assorted Christmas cookies, and co-owner Simone Stanta said she will be creating rocky road in the following days.

Simone also mentioned that there will be specially crafted Christmas gift packs with a mixture of everything, creating an easy option that is bound to impress that special someone.

Mick’s Bread Kitchen can also cater for Christmas parties, offering a variety of choices for that are ideal for small or large gatherings.

All Christmas goodies, aside from the cookies, are freshly baked in store. Customers can enjoy the taste of real authentic home-made flavoursome treats that are made with love and a deep desire to feed the community with joy.

Simone loves Christmas, she loves spending time with her family and being surrounded by good food.

Mick’s Bread Kitchen has been owned by Simone and her husband Michael since 1990, and this year they celebrated their 34th year in business.

Over the years they have entered and won many awards in various meat pie competitions, including the Great Aussie Meat Pie Competition.

Simone said that the competition gave them so much confidence in their delicious pies and that they apply a similar standard to everything they do.

“We don't compete. We set the standard,” said Simone. “We try and keep a high standard across the board on everything we do.”

Christmas Opening Hours:
LAST OPEN DAY – Monday 23 December
RE-OPEN – Monday 20 January

Co-owner Simone Stanta from Mick’s Bread Kitchen holding one of their delicious Christmas fruit cakes. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
Simone Stanta and one of the must-try Christmas Fruit Cakes from Mick’s Bread Kitchen. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Meredith Yeoman’s magical Floral Stitches Thread Art and Macra Weave exhibition is currently gracing the walls of Ingham’s TYTO Regional Art Gallery until Friday 20 December.
Meredith found her love for the unusual and intricate artform whilst enjoying retirement, and in early 2021, she undertook an embroidery course to explore her passion further.
“As you do with workshops and courses – you do them, then you put them aside, but towards the end of 2021 I picked the art up again, and have just really run with it ever since,” explained Meredith.
Intricately created on a sewing machine on dissolvable fabric, each of Meredith’s pieces are completed and then placed into water to be moulded and sculpted into the finished product. A niche artform, Meredith’s Floral Stitches exhibition at the gallery began in early November and stands as the first time her artwork has been displayed in this capacity.
“I have entered singular pieces into competitions including last year’s Hinchinbrook Art Awards where I received a lot of interest in my piece as it’s not something you come across every day, and from there, I found the opportunity for an exhibition at TYTO,” added Meredith.
To mark the official debut of her display, Meredith held an Artist Talk on Saturday 9 November, where a few ladies joined her for a guided demonstration of her beautiful creations.
Now almost four weeks into her showcase, Meredith’s art pieces have received much attention from gallery patrons with plenty of “oos and ahhs” of amazement being heard as viewers explore her work.
Meredith and her husband relocated to Saunders Beach in June of 2020 to enjoy retirement, and with her newfound passion and creative talents, Meredith runs regular workshops to allow others to explore their interests, explaining her hobby has transformed into a fulltime job.
“I’ve turned to art very late in my life but I’m thoroughly enjoying it,” shared Meredith.
“If you find something that you’re passionate about and that you love it’s not a chore.”

What: Meredith’s Floral Stitches Exhibition.
When: Monday to Saturday until Friday 20 December.
Where: Ingham’s TYTO Regional Art Gallery.

Meredith Yeoman opened her exhibition in November with an Artist Talk and demonstration.

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Queensland introduces New Lifejacket Regulations to Boost Maritime Safety. The
new lifejacket regulations came into effect across the state on Sunday 1 December, 2024 as part of the Queensland Government’s initiative to increase maritime safety.

Although enforcement of these new laws will be delayed until 1 July 2025, the Queensland Government advises boaters to understand and abide by these changes to stay safe and compliant on the water.

“We will be focusing on education, with enforcement delayed until 1 July 2025, to ensure all boaties are aware of the change,” said a Maritime Safety Queensland spokesperson.

In the interest of increasing water safety, the new regulations will make wearing a lifejacket mandatory in the following circumstances:
   • Boating alone, or only with children under 12 years on an open boat less than 4.8m in length whilst underway.
   • Crossing designated coastal bars on an open ship, and on an open area of a boat of any length, and on certain craft.
   • Children one year or more and under 12 years are on an open boat or an open area of a boat of any length whilst underway.
   • Nighttime boating, between sunset and sunrise on any open boat less than 4.8m in length whilst underway.

The rules apply to a plethora of boats and crafts (excluding body boards, and stand-up paddle boards), like small sailboats, pedal boats, rafts (including inflatables), rowboats (except Club Surfboards by Surf Life Saving Australia), and sea kayaks.

The legislative change hopes to bring Queensland in line with the safety standards observed in other states, with the Queensland Government stating the change hopes to ensure you, your passengers and your loved ones get home safely.

Within the last 5 years, there were 64 boating fatalities in Queensland, and only 5 were known to be wearing their lifejacket at the time of the incident. Studies have concluded time and time again that children, and those boating alone, at night or crossing coastal bars are at the highest risk of drowning at sea.

To access up to date and relevant information on legislative changes and maritime safety, please visit www.msq.qld.gov.au.

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New lifejacket laws came into effect across Queensland on 1 December 2024.

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As of today, the Hinchinbrook Region has a new free weekly community newspaper, and it is largely thanks to all the people on the front page of this first edition.

Free weekly newspapers are supported by the local business community and each business you read about in this publication is a local champion, they are the reason this newspaper has been made possible.

The Founding Advertising Partners, a group of local business owners who have all contributed to starting this newspaper. Photo credit: Rachael Smith.

Guided By Council, Brought To You By The Business Community

A positive and proactive Council is at the heart of every dynamic community and that has certainly been true for the Hinchinbrook Shire Regional Council which has been the driving force behind re-instating a dedicated local newspaper for the region.

Earlier this year, Mayor Ramon Jayo was visiting his friend and former Burdekin Mayor, Lyn McLaughlin, when he picked up a copy of Burdekin Life Newspaper.

“I grabbed a copy and brought it up here,” Mayor Jayo recalls, commenting that he loved the look of the paper and wished his community had something similar.

“A few days later, I was at the Volunteers Recognition Ceremony,” he added.

“Mrs Elena Mason came up to me and explained she’d just been on holiday to the Whitsundays and brought back a copy of the Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper – I noticed it was the same – that’s when I decided to get in touch.”

Burdekin Life Newspaper and Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper are part of a small, independent and family-owned business called Life Publishing Group which was established in the Whitsundays almost 15 years ago.

During this time, they have been producing two glossy magazines – a lifestyle publication named Core Life and a travel magazine entitled Tripping - both still exist today.

Four years ago, however, when the company heard that the printed version of 14 regional newspapers were being closed overnight and moved online, they decided to take action.

“We were determined to bring the community back their free voice in print,” said co-owner Rebecca Douthwaite.

“Every community deserves to have access to free local news – whether it’s the sporting results, real estate information, events and entertainment, and of course things like the funeral notices.

“Living in a regional area means many people are not online as much as they are in the cities, this makes the regional newspapers more important than they have ever been.”

In May this year, Mayor Jayo called Life Publishing Group’s Editor in Chief, Rachael Smith, and asked if the company would be interested in starting a newspaper in the region.

“When I received the call, I was very excited,” said Ms Smith.

“He called while Bec and I were at the Queensland Country Press Awards conference and later that night we won Best Free Newspaper in Queensland for Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper.

“I think this was a good omen!”

By August this year, Rebecca and Rachael attended a Council meeting at the local Council Chambers and they were excited to see the warmth and welcoming response to the newspaper, both at the meeting and when they spoke to local business owners.

“When we launched Burdekin Life Newspaper the year before it was because we were also invited by the local community,” shared Rachael.

“It is a wonderful feeling to be invited and gives a bigger meaning to what we are trying to achieve.

“Right from the beginning we wanted to give regional communities back their free voice in print – we want to help people feel connected, we want to help preserve history as it’s happening and every single person in our team deeply cares about the community.

“We would like to thank all of our Founding Advertising Partners for being part of the group of local businesses which have enabled a dedicated local newspaper to return, without them, this would not have been possible.”

“I would also like to thank Mayor Jayo and Deputy Mayor Mary Brown who have both been instrumental in bringing this publication to life.”

Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper comes out every Tuesday and is free for the community with 3000 copies published every week.

The newspaper is available at 15 dedicated distribution stands and over 50 other pick-up points from Ingham and surrounding townships through to Cardwell and Rollingstone.

The entire publication is also available for free online every week.

Councillors Andrew Carr and Pat Lynch, Deputy Mayor Mary Brown, Mayor Ramon Jayo, Councillors Donna Marbelli, Kate Milton and Mark Spina. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

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Hi Everyone

Welcome to the first edition of Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper, it is an absolute honour to bring a newspaper back to the Hinchinbrook community.

My name is Daniel and I will be the go-to guy for everything involving Hinchinbrook. In March of this year, I moved from Adelaide to the Whitsundays, where I have been a Cadet Journalist for Whitsunday Life Newspaper, up until now.

When our Editor-In-Chief, Rachael Smith, asked me if I would like to be part of the launch team for Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper, I said yes almost immediately.

I was eager to take on the responsibility and to meet the Hinchinbrook community, which I was told was lovely.

And, now that I’ve spent a week in the community, I couldn’t agree more!

From my short time in the region already everyone has been incredibly accepting, encouraging, welcoming and warm - thank you all so much for this.

Whilst I am the man here in region, I cannot do anything I do without the amazing team that we have, from Rachael to our Sales Manager Trish (who many of you have already met) to our fantastic Production Manager, Crissy.

I would also like to acknowledge my fellow journalist, Chelsea Ravizza, who is from the Burdekin and will be working with me to write a lot of this newspaper. We also have our Mackay Editor, Amanda Wright, who will be overseeing our in-depth weekly rural section.

In addition, we also have a wonderful team in our central office - Ruby who works as social media manager and production, Ruth our Whitsunday journalist and our three amazing graphic designers Taylor, Lara and Marc.

Lastly, I would like to thank our owners Bec and Paul for providing me with this amazing opportunity.

I cannot wait to learn more about the region and would love your help. If you have a story idea please reach out, and please enjoy this first edition of Hinchinbrook Life.

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Coming into the Christmas season, it’s important to think about those that are less fortunate than us, and once again, the incredible team at Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre are helping people who need it most.

For as long as the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre can remember they have donated gifts to vulnerable families over the Christmas period.

This initiative is supported by the Hinchinbrook Shire Council via The Mayor’s Appeal.

Members of the public, schools, churches, other not for profit organisations, big corporations, and local businesses are all encouraged get behind it.

Chief Executive Officer of the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre says she loves that the community continue to support the appeal.

“It's amazing we have such a generous community here, with both their time and their money,” said Linda.

“Around this time of year we have people ringing up asking how they can help, walking in the door with donations to contribute – it’s wonderful to see so many people care!

“Often there will be grandparents bringing their grandchildren and encouraging generosity through the generations.”

Every year the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre organise presents for around 100 people, ranging from families to single people and couples. All of whom are experiencing financial hardship.

Last year 20 large boxes of gifts were given away to the community, allowing all to enjoy a festive period.

With the huge ongoing support from the local community, the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre would like to say thank you to everyone for their donations.

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Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre have already started wrapping in preparation. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Originally from New South Wales, Harley Magennis has become a bit of an Ingham celebrity, regularly stopping for chats with the many friendly faces he sees around town.

But did you know that Harley is one of Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper’s new distributors?

We caught up with Harley as he was preparing for his new role, and he said he is excited to get started.

Harley loves talking to everybody in town, stopping for friendly conversations, and it is credentials like these that made him a perfect candidate for the newspaper delivery job.

As a local, Harley said he is looking forward to reading Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper and that he is eager to read a newspaper that contains news from the Hinchinbrook region.

Having extremely good social skills is something that Harley already has, but distributing this paper will allow him to further those skills.

When Harley isn’t distributing papers, you can find him playing darts at the local club house or you can find him on the jetty in Lucinda doing his favourite activity, fishing.

Harley is extremely excited for his new job, if you see him around town be sure to say hello to him and pick up a copy of the brand-new Hinchinbrook Life newspaper while you are at it.

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Harley Magennis is keen for his new role as a Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper Distributor. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Hinchinbrook Shire residents will be thrilled to see a dedicated printed local newspaper circulating our district once again. I’m sure many would agree, we have missed reading a region-specific paper that is focused solely on the Herbert District.

Local papers do more than just report the news – they help bind a community together. For a region like ours, it’s crucial to have a platform where we can share our victories, address the challenges, and keep informed about the things important to us.

The Hinchinbrook Life sets out to provide our community with a direct line to stay connected and engaged with what’s happening across every corner of Hinchinbrook.

As a weekly contributor, I will be using the Hinchinbrook Life to share updates on the work we are doing in Parliament, to highlight key local issues, and keep you informed on progress regarding policy and projects important to our community.

Having a dedicated, local publication will mean communications from our office, that are pivotal to the Hinchinbrook Shire part of the electorate can be more focused and specific.

This edition of Hinchinbrook Life coincides with the first parliamentary sitting week of the 58th Parliament of Queensland, the first since the October election, which I will be attending.

The week will begin with formalities and the swearing-in ceremony. After the initial two days of formalities, proceedings will commence as per usual. I’m already looking forward to the first round of Question Time and the introduction of bills.

As your re-elected Member for Hinchinbrook, I would like to reaffirm my commitment to every one of you. I’m committed to using my time in the office and parliament to advocate for legislative and policy changes that directly affect the way we live, work and play here in North Queensland. I will continue to fight for the infrastructure necessary to support the liveability and growth of our region.
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Nick Dametto MP
Member for Hinchinbrook

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Aerial control of the feral pig population within the Hinchinbrook Shire will commence in December, with the support of the Council, Department of Environment, Science and Innovation, and the Department of Resources.

An increasing area of concern, the feral pigs have directly caused damage to local ecosystems and agricultural land. The aerial shoot will target areas under the management of participating landholders and organisations, spanning from Forrest Beach in the north to Crystal Creek in the south.

The operation is scheduled to take place on Monday, 2 December, and Tuesday, 3 December, between 5am and 7pm each day, weather permitting.

For public safety, certain areas will be temporarily closed during the shoot, and access to the National Parks Estate, Bronte Road, and the Halifax Bay Wetlands will be restricted during the operation hours. However, access to huts on Bronte Road will remain available outside of the planned control times.

The aim of the aerial shoot is to manage the feral pig population in a controlled manner, reducing their numbers and minimising the damage caused to the local environment.

For more information or to clarify any concerns regarding the program, members of the public are encouraged to contact the Council’s Biosecurity Team at 4776 4800.

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Dear Sponsors, Community Members, and the Maraka Committee,

On behalf of the Maraka Committee, I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering support and dedication to the success of the 2024 Maraka Festival.

A special thank you to our esteemed judges: Emma Oliveri from Ergon Energy, Chris McHugh from Mission Beach Ex-Serviceman, and Ellie Knight from 3 RAR. Your commitment to traveling to Ingham and dedicating your time for the Maraka Queen and Princess quests is immensely appreciated.

Congratulations to our Maraka Queen, Montana Bain, and to our runner-up, Johanna Buckle, along with Rachel Hallam, who was awarded Miss Personality. A heartfelt congratulations also to Hazel Cary, crowned Maraka Princess 2024, and Millie Bartolini, our runner-up.

We also want to acknowledge all our wonderful contestants: Briella McLaughlin, Sophie Henderson, Mariah Foster, Yasi Briody, Mikayla Marmara, Jessie Bell, Millie Bartolini, Aurora Blewitt, Tilly Pappin, Maliah Bailey, and Hazel Cary.

Your participation enriches our community spirit.

We are deeply grateful to our Diamond Sponsors: Hinchinbrook Shire Council, Windlab Pty Ltd, Wilmar Sugar, and Triple M. Your generous support has been crucial to our festival's success.

Our Platinum Sponsors, NQIB, Royal Hotel, Townsville Lime & Gypsum, and Carey Group, as well as our Gold and Silver Sponsors also deserve our sincere thanks for their ongoing commitment.

I would like to acknowledge the hard work of our service clubs—Rotary Club of Hinchinbrook Inc, Lions Club of Ingham, Lions Club of Lower Herbert, and Apex Australia—as well as our dedicated Maraka Committee volunteers. Your countless hours of effort do not go unnoticed and are essential in making the festival a reality.

To the Hinchinbrook Community, thank you for your incredible support. Together, we celebrate the spirit of Maraka!

We would also appreciate your feed back please see the attached Q Code.

Contributed with thanks to President Patrick Lynch

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Residents of the Hinchinbrook region are invited to attend a community event aimed at raising awareness about proposed industrial developments in the Mount Fox area. Organised by Rainforest Reserves Australia, the event will feature the premiere of a new short film highlighting the potential impact of these projects on the Mount Fox Wet Tropics region.

The free event will take place on Wednesday, 4 December, at the Hinchinbrook Shire Hall from 6pm to 8pm. Attendees will have the chance to learn of the implications of large-scale industrial energy complexes planned for the area, including a Battery Energy Storage system and surrounding wind turbines up to 300 meters high.

“The implications of this project extend beyond Mount Fox, linking to several industrial wind and solar developments,” added Rainforest Reserves Australia’s Carolyn Emms.

“The Michael Creek Valley Action Group is currently challenging the Hinchinbrook Council's approval, which has sparked considerable concern within the community, especially given the numerous objections that have been raised.”

The Michael Creek Valley Action Group has been vocal in its efforts, emphasising the importance of community involvement in protecting the region’s unique ecosystems.

“The beauty and uniqueness of the Mount Fox area is in danger with this proposed development,” explained Michael Creek Valley Action Group Chairperson, Kim Armstrong.

“We are aware we are not the only community being subjected to inappropriate land use, and habitat destruction associated with renewable energy developments, and we need to make the public aware of the real costs and devastation they are causing.”

The film premiere serves as a platform to amplify these concerns and encourage residents to take action.

“We’re excited to support the Michael Creek Valley Action Group Mount Fox, in their efforts to preserve the Mount Fox region,” said Carolyn.

What: Save Mount Fox from Industrialisation Movie Premier.
When: Wednesday, 4 December, 6pm to 8pm.
Where: Hinchinbrook Shire Hall, 25 Lannercost Street.
More Information: Email info@rainforestreserves.org.au.

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The future of Mount Fox is currently under great discussion among the wider community, with locals invited to attend a short film screening on Wednesday 4 December.

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The Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce held their Annual General Meeting (AGM) last Wednesday 20 November, with Member for Hinchinbrook Nick Dametto in attendance on the night.

At the AGM the executive committee were re-elected and are as followed:

President: Mary Brown
Vice-President: Peter Reitano
Treasurer: Siobhan Pelleri
Secretary: Debbie Camp
 
The new Committee Members are: Sam Torrisi, Ted Cogger and Christina Spencer.

Mary Brown issued a President’s Report during the AGM and touched on several key initiatives Chamber have been involved with over the year.

In November/December of 2023 the Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the Hinchinbrook Shire Council, Mayor other sponsors launched the new ‘Shop & Win’ initiative.

The Chamber was pleased to report that, in 2024 the project met with great success with many businesses feeling more support as visitors and locals were encouraged to shop locally.

In May 2024 Chamber managed to deliver an Agricultural Machinery Operator training course. Eleven candidates participated in the course and eleven of them subsequently gained employment.

In other Chamber news, building on the success of the 2023 Markets at the Mosaic, Chamber continued to grow these markets in the last calendar year.

‘Shop The Hinchinbrook Way’ is another initiative managed by Chamber and operated in partnership with Hinchinbrook Shire Council and other major sponsors.

With a marketing campaign to encourage and promote locals and visitors to support local businesses, Chamber were pleased to report that sponsorship grew to a value $13,000 ahead of the event this year.

Chamber also continued their ‘Whole of Shire’ radio promotion discussing Retail & Food, Accommodation, Marine & Beaches, and Nature.

Chamber’s social media profile also increased this year, mainly thanks to Christina Spencer and all of her work in Administration and Social Media Management.

From now on the Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce has said they will be hosting more informal occasions, with formalities talked about first, followed by informal chit-chat/networking.

If you would like to join the Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce reach out to the team. You can call 4776 0090 or go to hinchinbrookchamber.com.au.

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The 2024-2025 Executive Committee: Vice President Peter Reitano, Secretary Debbie Camp, Treasurer Siobhan Pelleri, and President Mary Brown.

(BACK ROW) State Member for Hinchinbrook Nick Dametto, Ted Cogger, Vice President Peter Reitano, President Mary Brown, and Sam Torrisi. (FRONT ROW) – Secretary Debbie Camp, Christina Spencer, and Treasurer Siobhan Pelleri.

Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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