On the 4th and 5th of April 2025, the Hinchinbrook Grazing Connect Regional Forum brought together 61 passionate individuals committed to building a more sustainable grazing industry in the Hinchinbrook region. Hosted by the Hinchinbrook Sustainable Pasture Group, the event welcomed 52 primary producers and 9 technical advisors for two days of learning, discussion, and community-building.

The forum kicked off with a heartfelt tribute to Peter Sheahan, a founding committee member and tireless advocate for sustainable practices. His legacy was deeply felt across the two days, especially during the field visits to his and fellow grazier Lyle Glenwright’s properties, where new pasture nutrition and lime trial demonstrations were proudly showcased.

The program covered a broad range of topics critical to the future of grazing. Participants dived deep into managing pastures and soils, interpreting soil testing results, and understanding nutrient management to boost cattle health. The first day also featured a thought-provoking session from Black Box Co on better breeding strategies and an engaging paddock tour complete with smoko breaks among peers.

Animal nutrition was the spotlight on Saturday morning, with veterinarian Dr. Matthew Boon offering vital insights, particularly in the wake of recent floods. Assistance available for flood-affected graziers was outlined by QRIDA and Rural Aid, helping many to navigate recovery options.

The forum also tackled pressing issues like weed and feral pig management, herbicide options, and navigating complex Reef Regulations and Carbon projects, delivering critical knowledge for today’s graziers balancing production and compliance.

The Hinchinbrook Sustainable Pasture Group extends heartfelt thanks to all sponsors, caterers, and presenters who made the event possible. Special gratitude goes to Chairperson Kate Milton, committee members Lawrence Di Bella and Lyle Glenwright, and presenters like Peter Spies, who were instrumental in both the planning and delivery of the event.

Funded and supported by the DAF Integrated Engagement and Capacity Building Project, the Hinchinbrook Grazing Connect Regional Forum proved that when passionate people come together, real change can begin as this thriving community is determined to build a sustainable and prosperous grazing future.

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All Hinchinbrook residents are invited to an informative and engaging community roadshow session in Townsville on Tuesday the 13th of May. Genex will present exciting updates on the Kidston Hybrid Project (K3-Hybrid) offering a unique opportunity to learn how this ground breaking renewable energy initiative will benefit the region socially, environmentally, and economically.

The K3-Hybrid Project marks the final stage of the Kidston Clean Energy Hub and integrates 120 megawatts (MW) of wind power with a 150MW/600-megawatt hour battery energy storage system. Reconfigured from the former Kidston Wind Project (K3-Wind), this ambitious 270MW hybrid project will connect to a new 275-kilovolt transmission line by Powerlink Queensland, with completion expected in 2025. By combining wind, solar, pumped hydro, and storage, the Kidston Clean Energy Hub will be the first of its kind in Australia. This is the start of creating a globally significant, multi-technology renewable Hinchinbrook.

At the session, Genex representatives will explain the project’s purpose and benefits, including employment and local business opportunities, wind turbine transport logistics, and broader community impacts. Attendees will also learn how to get involved and stay connected with Genex throughout the project's life cycle.

If you’re a business owner, contractor, job seeker, university representative, or simply a curious community member, this is your chance to engage directly with the project team, ask questions, and see how this transformational project will shape the future of North Queensland. Refreshments will be provided, and the session will include a Q&A segment for community input and discussion.

WHAT: Genex Community Roadshow – Kidston Hybrid Project
WHEN: Tuesday, May 13 | 6:00pm – 8:00pm
WHERE: Townsville RSL Club, 139 Charters Towers Road, Hermit Park
REGISTER: Via the QR code, or email info@genexpower.com.au

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeWdXcePuFqSUFqKxpYgnuyTB45YxmvAcJpYxNWkoGcEzC3BA/viewform

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On Saturday, 24th May, slip into your comfiest pyjamas and head to the Cardwell Country Club for an evening that promises connection, relaxation, and pampering with purpose. From 6pm to 9pm, the ‘Girls Night In’ Pyjama Party invites women of all ages to unite in support of Domestic Violence Awareness, a cause that deserves to be heard from local voices and local actions.

For just $20, Pyjama Party guests will enjoy a night filled with indulgent treats of facials (bookings essential), massages, a cent sale, meditation techniques, and a chance to win a fabulous lucky door prize. Delicious finger food will be served, and laughter and conversation will flow freely in a safe, supportive space. It’s more than a fun night in, it’s a show of solidarity for those impacted by domestic violence.

Bring your own cushion and make yourself comfortable as this is your night to unwind and uplift the women around you. A courtesy bus will be available for those who don't wish to drive, but bookings are essential. Please call: 0438 164 109 to book your seat on the bus.

Let’s come together Hinchinbrook, not just in our pyjamas, but in shared commitment to awareness, support, and change, all whilst feeling our most beautiful selves. For more information or to book your ticket, please call Maxine: 4068 1004.

WHAT: Girls Night In Pyjama Party for Domestic Violence Awareness
WHEN: Saturday, 24th May | 6:00pm – 9:00pm
WHERE: Cardwell Country Club, Gregory Street, Cardwell
COST: $20.00 (includes finger food and activities)

This May, the Cassowary Coast Domestic and Family Violence Service is calling on communities across the region to come together in a powerful show of support and all it takes is a splash of purple.

In recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month 2025, residents and businesses across the region are invited to Go Purple. Whether it’s decorating your home, lighting up your business front, or wearing purple on Monday, 20th May, your participation sends a strong message: we stand with survivors, we support change, and we will not stay silent!

Once you’re decked out in purple, take a photo and post it to Facebook with the hashtags #TullySupportCentre, #CassowaryCoastGoesPurple, and #HinchinbrookGoesPurple. Your photo could inspire others to join the cause and helps spread awareness throughout our community.

Domestic and family violence affects far too many, but small acts of unity like turning the region purple, can spark conversations, offer hope, and build momentum toward real change. For more information, contact Maxine at the Tully Support Centre at: 4068 1004 or email: maxine@tullysupportcentre.com.au.

Let’s light up the region in purple this May because together, we can make a difference!

by Victoria Velton

Luke Rosadi is no stranger to speed, but this year, he’s trading the drag strip for the burnout pad in his biggest motorsport leap yet. Known across the North Queensland car scene for his high-powered Maloo ute, Legless, the Ingham local is now stepping into a brand-new chapter with his first ever burnout competition.

After sustaining a spinal injury in a motocross accident in 2010, Luke became a paraplegic but he was determined not to let his new reality slow him down. In 2013, he bought his beloved V8 ute and began racing competitively, eventually taking out the top drag racing prize at Northern Nats in 2024. Now, after more than a decade on the strip, Luke is fired up to take on the burnout arena with a custom-built 1981 VC Holden Commodore named Disabled.

The car, once just an empty shell, has undergone two years of meticulous work to become competition-ready. Modified with hand controls and built-in safety tech, it’s been tailored specifically to Luke’s needs. But burnouts bring a new kind of challenge as it’s loud, smoky, and brutal on tyres. That’s why local sponsor Steve from Ingham Tyrepower stepped in, donating tyres and backing Luke in this demanding sport.

“I get so excited doing skids and going super fast,” Luke says. “Burnouts are something I’ve always wanted to try. I used to ride along with my mates during events and the thrill stuck with me.”

His first event is just around the corner at Springmount Raceway’s Northern Nats from May 16–18. Both Legless and Disabled will be in action with drag racing by day and burnouts by night.

Luke is ready to put on a show and it’s clear he’s locked in. With a powerful new car, unwavering community support, and the same fierce determination that’s defined his journey so far, Luke’s next chapter promises to be as bold and unforgettable as the burnouts he’s about to unleash.

Have you ever thought about becoming a wildlife carer? Now is your chance to turn that curiosity into lifesaving action. Join an engaging and informative Wildlife Carer Introductory Course, where you will learn what it takes to rescue and care for North Queensland’s incredible native animals.

From tiny microbats and birds to majestic flying foxes, possums, macropods, and more, this course will give you a solid understanding of the diverse species that often come into care across the region. Led by experienced species coordinators from North Queensland Wildlife Care Inc, this session offers a realistic and practical introduction to wildlife care. You’ll gain insight into the skills, challenges, rewards, and equipment involved in helping these animals in need.

Whether you are looking to take the first step toward becoming a registered carer or simply want to understand how you can support wildlife in your community, this course is the perfect starting point. Please note that this event is not suitable for children under 12, as some images may be distressing. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

North Queensland is packed full of wildlife, and with increased urbanisation and natural threats, the need for passionate carers has never been greater. Your journey into wildlife rescue could begin right here this Saturday! For more details and to learn more about North Queensland Wildlife Care Inc, visit nqwildlife.org.au and to book your spot at the workshop visit: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1386682

Ticket Prices:
Individual NQ Wildlife Care Member – $15.00
Individual Non-Member – $30.00
Family Ticket (2 adults and 2 children) – $40.00
Individual Concession Holder – $15.00
Vet Industry (Student or Employee) – Free

WHAT: Wildlife Carer Introductory Course.
WHEN: Saturday, 10 May from 1:30 PM to 4:30 PM
WHERE: Tyto Conference and Events Centre, Corner of Bruce Highway and Cooper Street, Ingham QLD 4850

North Queensland’s biggest celebration of rural life, careers and community is almost here! The Link2Country Expo is set to take over the Ingham Showgrounds on Friday 23 and Saturday 24 May 2025, bringing two full days of education, entertainment, and endless opportunity for anyone interested in the world of agriculture.

Designed to connect people to country, this vibrant event is a dynamic platform for students, jobseekers, farmers, businesses and travellers to come together and celebrate the strength and future of the agricultural industry in the Hinchinbrook region. Whether you're looking for work, want to upskill, or simply want a great weekend out, the Link2Country Expo is a must-attend event.

Gates open at 9am both days, with an action-packed program running through to the evening. Live music kicks off at 7:30pm, the bar opens at 5:00pm Friday and 3:00pm Saturday, and networking events from 5:30pm to 7:30pm give attendees the perfect chance to meet industry leaders, business owners, and potential employers. Food trucks will be on-site both days to keep you fed while you explore all the opportunities.

The Expo’s mission is built on three pillars — Educate, Entertain, and Encourage. In the Educate space, the Agri-Life Skills Program takes centre stage. Across two days, this hands-on program aims to reach over 500 students, with real-world learning experiences such as changing a tyre, handling livestock safely, and operating agricultural machinery. It’s practical, engaging, and geared toward planting seeds of interest in the next generation of Ag professionals.

The Entertain element is just as exciting as there will be cattle, horse, and working dog demonstrations, a Beers & Gears session, live excavator experiences and challenges, live music and more entertainment to come! Whether you’re watching from the sidelines or jumping into an activity yourself, there’s no shortage of activities to keep you busy.

The Expo also seeks to Encourage in the bounds of career exploration, business innovation, and strong community ties. Local clubs are running the bar and food areas as fundraisers, with maker markets and trade stalls supporting small businesses, artists, and Ag suppliers. Expect lucky door prizes, auctions, interactive displays, and loads of local flavour.

Don’t miss the opportunity to visit five key industry zones:
Sugarcane Section – Learn planting, harvesting, processing and the economic importance of the cane industry.
Earthworks Section – Try your hand at operating an excavator or watch experts in action.
Horse Section – Perfect for equine lovers of all levels, with demonstrations and training sessions.
Cattle Section – From breeding to animal welfare, gain insight into the beef industry.
Careers Section – Connect with educational institutions, employers and training providers to map out your Ag future.

Ticket prices are as follows:
2-Day Adult Pass: $45.00
Friday or Saturday All Day Pass: $27.50
Friday or Saturday After 5pm Entry: $15.00
Saturday “Beers & Gears” VIP Hour: $250.00

Whether you’re looking to build a future in Ag or simply want a fun weekend with friends and family, the Link2Country Expo delivers something for everyone. Follow the event on Facebook at Link2Country for more updates and program news and scan the QR code for your tickets today!

WHAT: Link2Country Expo
WHEN: Friday 23 and Saturday 24 May 2025, from 9:00am
WHERE: Ingham Showgrounds

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https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1348753

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The Hinchinbrook Shire Council is calling on individuals, community groups, and organisations to apply for funding under the 2024–2025 Community Grants Program. This initiative provides vital financial support to projects and activities that strengthen the Shire’s social fabric, support economic development, and celebrate local achievement. There are grants available that could help bring your goals to life.

Available Community Grant Types:
Youth Achievement Grant - $250 for individuals or $700 for teams of three or more.
Community Activity Grant - Up to $2,000 for events, activities or initiatives that benefit the local community.
Regional Economic Development Grant - Up to $10,000 for projects that support sustainable economic growth and local business development.

The Council's aim is to ensure funding is distributed fairly and effectively to initiatives that make a genuine impact across the Shire for both for-profit and not-for-profit organisations.

Applications close Wednesday 11 June 2025, to check your eligibility and download an application form, visit the 'Community Grants' page on the Council's website or scan the QR code. Now is the time to invest in your community so apply today and help shape Hinchinbrook’s future.

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https://www.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au/community-environment/grants-and-funding/community-grants/

Interfaced between the land and sea,
The tides that ebb and flow
Govern the ebb and flow of life
Where the mangrove forests grow,
Their twisted, tangled roots and trunks
Anchored to the mud below.

These aerial roots like coiling snakes
Prevent erosion of the coastline,
Trapping, recycling sediments and nutrients
Where rivers and seawaters combine,
Making an excellent marine breeding ground -
Nature’s nursery by design.

Here, in this sluggish, muddy world,
Pungent with unpleasant smell,
Hang ant-house plants on the mangrove stems,
Where sandflies and mosquitoes dwell
Along with wadding birds and small crabs
Encased in red and orange shells.

There is one of ancient order -
For he alone reigns supreme.
In the shadows of the night,
His sharp, red eyes gleam,
For the crocodile is the master
Of ambush and silent schemes.

Flying foxes by the thousands
Squabble in daytime roosting sites,
And when some loose their footing,
Crocodiles lie in wait for tasty bites.
When day is done and dusk arrives
They fly to their feeding grounds in hasty flight.

As the ocean meets the shore
In its never ending rhythm,
It quietly enters this muddy world,
Flowing through endless swamps and streams,
Fringed with the twisted, tangle of trunks and roots,
Topped with shiny, leafy crowns of green.

by Joyce Finocchiaro

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Council, on Tuesday 29 April 2025, acknowledged and recognised long serving SES volunteer Robert Morris for his unwavering dedication and commitment to the Hinchinbrook State Emergency Service (SES).

It was an honour for me to extend Council’s heartfelt thanks to Robert for his 26 years of voluntary service, an acknowledgement richly deserved. Robert’s journey with the SES began at just 16 years of age when he joined as a Cadet. Under the early guidance of Doug Ladner and later mentored by local controller Rodger Bow, Robert developed into a pillar of the Hinchinbrook unit.

His commitment over the years has seen him respond to countless emergencies, support the local community through cyclones and floods, and help train the next generation of volunteers. The presentation celebrated not only his years of service but also the values of resilience, teamwork and selflessness he continues to embody.

Hinchinbrook is stronger for volunteers like Robert Morris — individuals whose quiet dedication makes a lasting impact.

I would also like to mention that Hinchinbrook SES is looking for new members willing and able to help our community before, during and after emergencies. Every year about 5,000 volunteers support Queensland communities and as we saw during our recent flood event, the help is truly appreciated by community members in need.

So, if you have a desire to help, put that desire to good use and become a SES volunteer, contact Council and we will put you in touch with our local SES personnel. Volunteers perform a diverse range of functions in responding to many different types of activations as a result of disasters and emergencies including:

· Storms;

· Floods;

· Cyclones;

· Rescues;

· Transportation incidents (road/rail/air);

· Landslides; and

· Searches for missing persons.

The SES is designed to empower people to help themselves and others in their communities in times of emergency and disaster and will provide you with a truly rewarding experience.

Residents and business owners in Paluma and Hidden Valley say they are being left in limbo, months after flooding and landslides devastated Mount Spec Road and cut off vital access to their communities.

Hinchinbrook MP and Katter’s Australian Party (KAP) Deputy Leader, Nick Dametto, has joined their call for urgent answers, pressing the State Government and the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) to provide a clear timeline for when the road will be fully restored.

Road crews on the ground have taken on a mammoth task under extremely difficult conditions and I thank them for their continued efforts as they work to clear and stabilise Mount Spec Road, but it’s now time for the Minister to provide the residents and small businesses in this area some certainty around when access will be restored,” Mr Dametto said.

Following the destructive February floods, multiple landslides rendered Mount Spec Road—classified as a Heritage Listed route—impassable. While temporary access has since been restored via the western route, locals are growing increasingly frustrated by the lack of information about the long-term plan.

“Every day without answers pushes this community closer to the brink of collapse," added Mr Dametto.

"People who live in Paluma and work in Townsville have been forced to either spend hours travelling via Hervey Range Road or pay for accommodation in Townsville just to keep their jobs - this situation is completely untenable.”

Mr Dametto acknowledged the importance of preserving historic infrastructure, such as Crystal Creek Bridge and the heritage culverts, but believes the listing of the entire road is preventing critical upgrades.

“Our office is currently putting together an application to scrab the heritage listing in favour of building a fit for purpose road that may mitigate some these issues into the future,” he said.

While praising the collaboration seen during the recovery of the Olera Creek Bridge on the Bruce Highway, Mr Dametto said the same urgency must now be applied to Mount Spec Road.

“People aren’t asking for miracles, they understand that this is a complex task - all we expect is a clear plan and a genuine timeline for delivery,” he said.

Locals are encouraged to share their concerns with Mr Dametto’s office as the push for clarity and stronger infrastructure continues.

Queensland Cane Action Roundtable (QCAR) has been out in force across the state in recent weeks, building momentum for workforce solutions and innovation in the sugarcane industry.

QCAR Herbert District Manager Lawrence Di Bella and Central District Manager Sonia Ball were among the representatives at the 2025 Australian Society of Sugar Cane Technologists (ASSCT) Conference, held at the Royal International Convention Centre last week.

Attending alongside AgEtal and AgForce, the team was promoting the AgTIY – RSDetect testing kit, a tool designed to provide reliable, on-farm results to better inform farming decisions.

The exhibit drew strong interest, with many stopping by to speak with Kylie and Adele from AgEtal, and learn more about the testing process. SRA’s Farzana Darain was among those who dropped in to the QCAR, AgEtal and AgForce stall, as was Peter Larson of Wilmar.

Meanwhile, QCAR has been stepping up its engagement with ALA Workforce Solutions, working collaboratively to address labour shortages across the sugarcane and agricultural sectors.

Herbert River district growers have been invited to attend an information evening on Monday 6 May at the Royal Hotel. RSVPs officially closed on 2 May, however last-minute enquiries can be directed to QCAR Administration Officer Anna Di Bella on 0419 673 000.

The workforce push follows a successful start to a three-event series in Far North Queensland, with a strong turnout for the first meeting at the Crown Hotel, Innisfail, followed by Babinda and Walkamin.

QCAR continues to drive change across Queensland and into the northern tip of New South Wales, supporting sugarcane growers with tools, partnerships and opportunities.

For more information about QCAR’s work or the AgTIY – RSDetect kit, contact Lawrence Di Bella on 0448 084 252.

Cassowaries are a majestic animal but they can act in an unpredictable way, which can include dangerous behaviour.

They should never be fed or given access to food. This can cause them to become habituated and begin to approach people expecting food. Cassowaries have been known to become aggressive when approaching people for food but not receiving any.

Recently, a man from Cardwell sustained a minor leg injury after an encounter with a cassowary in his backyard and was treated at Tully Hospital. An inspection from wildlife Rangers saw that the Cassowary displayed behaviour indicative of being habituated to human feeding, serving as a caution to the public about wildlife interaction.

People can help preserve wild populations of cassowaries by being Cass-O-Wary:
➡️ Never approach cassowaries.
➡️ Never approach chicks – male cassowaries will defend them.
➡️ Never feed cassowaries – it is illegal and can be dangerous for the birds and for humans.
➡️ Always discard food scraps in closed bins and ensure compost bins have secure lids.
➡️ Always slow down when driving in cassowary territory.
➡️ Never stop your vehicle to look at cassowaries on the road.
➡️ Keep dogs behind fences or on a leash.

Cassowary sightings in north Queensland should be reported to QPWS by calling 1300 130 372.

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By Queensland Environment

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Seven residents took a proud step forward in their Australian journey at a Citizenship Ceremony held yesterday, Wednesday 30 April 2025, in the Hinchinbrook Shire Council Chambers.

Mayor Ramon Jayo officially welcomed Mr Daijo John, Mrs Alice Mathew along with their two children Elina and Albin, Mr James Kellett, Mr Thomas Kellett and Mrs Florence Fotheringham as Australia’s newest citizens.

Family, friends and Councillors gathered for the occasion, celebrating the commitment each individual has made to becoming a full member of the Australian community.

The candidates honoured at today’s ceremony come from diverse backgrounds, including India, the Philippines, the United Kingdom and New Zealand, reflecting the multicultural fabric of the Hinchinbrook region.

“Choosing to become an Australian citizen is a meaningful and life changing decision,” Mayor Jayo said, "They were really excited and very happy to be granted their citizenship and I think they're going to add amazing value to our community."

“It is about embracing the values we share including freedom, democracy and opportunity and becoming part of a community that supports and celebrates diversity. I am honoured to welcome Daijo, Alice, Elina, Albin, James Thomas and Florence to our community.”

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All seven new Australian Citizens with Mayor Ramon Jayo. Right: Mr Daijo John, Mrs Alice Mathew along with their two children Elina and Albin. Left: Mr James Kellett and Mr Thomas Kellett and Mrs Florence Fotheringham. Photo credits: Victoria Velton.

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Within just one hour of Ingham, anglers can access the full spectrum of world-class recreational fishing. Cast a line from Hinchinbrook’s pristine beaches, fish from the wharf at Lucinda and Dungeness, or chase sooty grunter in the rugged Herbert River Gorge.

The Hinchinbrook Channel offers legendary Barramundi fishing in calm, scenic waters, while the Great Barrier Reef delivers thrilling open-water action. Whether you're after serenity or adventure, Hinchinbrook delivers it all.

With picture-postcard scenery as your backdrop, there’s no better way to experience the region than by getting out on the water and embracing its incredible fishing diversity.