Flood-affected soybean growers in Queensland growing regions say the best way concerned Aussies can help growers get back on their feet is at the supermarket checkout.

For North Queensland soybean grower, Christian Lago, it has been a season of constant weather challenges and lots of uncertainty.

“Our soybean season in the Burdekin region has been a challenge from the start”, said Mr Lago.

“Before Christmas, we were struggling to get soybeans in the ground thanks to wet weather and a delayed cane harvest, and then, the paddocks we did plant have been through flooding rains in early February, followed by more heavy rainfall in late March,” he added.

“We’ve got about four weeks to go before we harvest and, to be honest, there’s a lot of uncertainty whether our soybeans will make it into the silo thanks to the vagaries of the weather.”

Soy Australia Industry Development Officer, Judy Plath, said growers in the Mackay region had also experienced difficulties getting soybeans planted before and after Christmas due to wet weather and the late cane season.

“There has certainly been a reduction in the area of soybeans planted in the Mackay region this year due to weather challenges,” she said.

Soybean grower, Paul Fleming, has heard reports of destroyed and damaged soybean crops throughout his district, and says the best way consumers can help soybean growers get back on their feet is by buying Aussie-grown when they shop.

“People wanting to help can support Aussie soybean growers by making sure they put Aussie-grown soybean products in their shopping trolley,” he said.

Mr Fleming, who is a Board member of the peak industry body for soybeans, Soy Australia, believes most people don’t realise that a lot of soy-based foods in the supermarket are made with soy ingredients imported from places like China.

“If consumers choose brands that support Aussie farmers, they can make a huge difference to local soybean growers and help us keep afloat during difficult times,” he added.

“Companies like Vitasoy, for example, buy a lot of soybeans from the Northern Rivers and exclusively use Aussie-grown soybeans in their soy milk and yoghurt range,” said Mr Fleming.

“In fact, Vitasoy are the only Aussie soy milk manufacturer using Aussie-grown soybeans in their milk.

“Other brands use clever marketing to stop consumers from realising they actually use imported soy in their milks.”

“When you see wording like 'made in Australia with 99 per cent Australian ingredients' on your soy milk, then you can be confident that the company is supporting Aussie farmers,” said Mr Fleming.

“The same goes for soy-based foods like tofu or tempeh.

“The ingredient list should be virtually 100 per cent Aussie.”

The Hinchinbrook Shire Library remains closed due to flooding, and the Halifax Library is open under limited opening hours, but Street Libraries are open around the shire.

Lynn Romano created a Street Library Last year at the bus shelter at Toobanna State School, so avid readers or travellers can read books and magazines at any time.

“My son, he loves to read. I have to say, I'm not a big reader myself, but I know reading is something we should do,” said Lynn.

“We do a bit of traveling with the caravan, and we have seen libraries in other places, and I just thought, well, it would be a great thing to have locally so people could access free books.

“When we've been in caravan parks, people would often leave books in the camp kitchen, they were passing them on in that way. So that was part of the journey and thinking about what to do here.

“It's near the school, I know lots of kids don't really like reading much and don't actually have many books. I just thought it might be a good place to have it. It's easy for people travelling past, easy for kids and for people in the community as well.”

Despite Toobanna school and homes receiving flooding, Lynn said that the library was safe, and the airtight container left the books with zero damage or mould.

“I went back to check it was okay after the flood and I put extra books in. It is quite full with books and magazines now,” said Lynn.

Lynn said that Street Libraries are all about sharing books in a free exchange.

“You don't have to leave books if you don't have any, but if you have something that you've already read, why not pass it on to somebody else?” said Lynn.

Street Libraries are all about inviting neighbours, travellers, or other community members together in sharing the joy of reading.

There is also a Street Library located on Hawkins Street in Ingham.

Victoria grew up in Brisbane and went on to pursue a Cert III in Business Administration while also qualifying as a swimming teacher through AustSwim. Their career path led them to roles as a receptionist and swimming instructor, where they worked hard to fund their Diploma of Arts.

Later  serving as an editor for a medical journal at Queensland University of Technology, Victoria further sharpened their writing and editorial skills.

Victoria's family live in Macknade and moving to the region will be an opportunity for them all to reconnect regularly, something Victoria is looking forward to.

Victoria has been perfecting their journalism skills in the Whitsundays for the past three months working for Hinchinbrook Life’s sister newspaper, Whitsunday Life as a cadet journalist.

Here, Victoria has got to know the community on a personal level and is now looking forward to doing the same in the Hinchinbrook.

"I am greatly anticipating the move to Hinchinbrook, the wet weather and crocodile warnings couldn't keep me away!” said Victoria.

"I look forward to meeting new faces and catching up with old friends.”

Victoria’s passions lie in artistic expression and adventure. A talented and dedicated creative, they spend their spare time sewing, embroidering, and crafting stories. Whether designing intricate patterns or bringing characters to life on paper, Victoria finds joy in expressing themselves through various forms of art.

A love for the water runs deep, whether it’s swimming in the ocean, creeks, or pools, Victoria is always there. Boating, snorkelling, and fishing, Victoria embraces every opportunity to be out on the water with friends.

Last year, Victoria had the incredible chance to live and work in Ireland, connecting with family roots, bottle-feeding calves, holding newborn lambs, and cooking hearty roasts with loved ones. The experience only deepened a love for travel, culture, and new experiences.

Honest, vivid, and exploratory, Victoria is always eager to try something new. Whether embarking on a new creative project, diving into a fresh adventure, or simply enjoying the beauty of nature, they embrace life with enthusiasm and curiosity.

If you see Victoria around, don’t hesitate to say hello! They love meeting new people and sharing stories about their passions and experiences.

A striking symbol of resilience and awareness now stands along the highway in Ingham—its vivid blue branches reaching out as a reminder that no one has to struggle in silence. The Blue Tree Project, a national initiative aimed at breaking the stigma around mental health, found a home in the town in July 2023, thanks to a collaborative community effort.

Councillor Donna Marbelli first saw a Blue Tree while driving between Townsville and Ingham and knew the town needed one of its own. The search began for a tree that met the criteria—it had to be dead and visible from the road—before being transformed into a beacon of hope.

The project was a team effort, with support from the council, W and T Forden Garden Bails and Tree Lopping, and Canegrowers Mitre 10. Cr Marbelli said the tree serves as a powerful symbol of mental health awareness, reinforcing the importance of open conversations.

“Our town’s Blue Tree is a symbol of strength and support,” she said. “It’s a powerful reminder that it’s okay not to be okay and that no one should struggle in silence. Mental health affects us all, and we encourage open conversations in our community. It also reminds everyone that help is always available—you are not alone.”

Cr Marbelli said she was proud to see Ingham take part in the movement and was pleased the tree was in such a prominent location.

“It’s great, and I’m so glad we’ve got one. I’m so glad it’s on the highway so that travellers going through can see that our town cares about mental health.”

A brand-new travel agency, NQ Travel and Cruise, is set to open its doors in Ingham today, offering expert travel planning and personalised service to the community.

Owned and operated by Kathleen Lynch, a seasoned travel professional with over 15 years of experience, NQ Travel and Cruise is a full-service agency dedicated to creating custom itineraries tailored to every traveller’s needs. Whether it’s a relaxing cruise, a dream holiday, or a meticulously planned adventure, Kathleen brings her extensive knowledge and passion for travel to ensure every trip is seamless and memorable.

“I am thrilled to bring NQ Travel and Cruise to Ingham,” said Kathleen Lynch.

“My goal is to provide exceptional, personalised travel experiences, helping clients turn their travel dreams into reality.”

The agency is located at 73-81 Lannercost Street, Ingham, and will be open from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, with an appointment-only service from 1:00 pm, securing clients a dedicated, one-on-one service. As a solo operator, Kathleen encourages clients to schedule an appointment to ensure a personalised and uninterrupted consultation.

In addition to offering tailored travel services, Kathleen plans to host exclusive client events twice a year, providing an opportunity for travellers to connect, gain insights on upcoming travel trends, and explore new destinations. She is also committed to delivering highly detailed and curated travel experiences, ensuring every aspect of a client’s journey is meticulously planned for maximum enjoyment and ease.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact NQ Travel and Cruise.
Ph. 4440 3310

For 16 years, Marina Nowak has run her cafe with a focus on fresh, homemade meals and a welcoming atmosphere. Everything is made fresh to order at Majestic Cafe, and the returning customers love it!

Majestic Cafe has a mixed customer base of locals and travellers, and it thrives on word of mouth.

“Someone said to me, ‘Oh, I met someone from Darwin who said they had a fish burger, and we've come in here to try this fish burger!’” said Marina.

“We do everything fresh, we make our own patties, crumbed steaks, everything's made in-house, we use very little packaged product.

“Because we do it fresh, if you want something, you have to wait for it, because we cook it as you order. We don't have that pre-made sort of stuff!”

Over the years, the cafe has built a loyal customer base.

"We've had people with us since the day we opened," Marina shared.

"We’ve catered their weddings, their kids’ christenings, it is a family atmosphere here.”

Marina takes pride in creating a welcoming space where everyone feels at home, and it’s her friendly staff who help to create this vibrant environment.

"There are no bosses here. We all work together, cooking, cleaning, whatever needs doing. Everyone here loves to cook and connect with people,” said Marina.

Marina’s journey at Majestic Cafe began over 40 years ago. She started out as a waitress, but when the business came up for sale, she decided to purchase it and has not looked back since.

While local customers are the backbone of the business, tourism is vital. "We need that mix of locals and travellers to keep the town sustainable," explained Marina, who loves welcoming visitors to the region.

After 40 years, Marina remains passionate.

“It’s always been a passion for me. We don’t portray that we’re chefs or anything like that. We just love to cook and love to see people enjoying what we give them.”

R U OK?’s Conversation Convoy is coming to the Hinchinbrook region, aimed at raising awareness for suicide prevention and offering an opportunity for the community to come together, learn, and show support. The R U OK convoy will be at the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre Afternoon Tea in Rotary Park on April 9th from 3:30 pm - 5:30pm.

The event offers a chance for individuals to learn, engage, and ask questions in a relaxed setting. Families, friends, and colleagues are encouraged to attend, whether to learn how to support others or to seek help themselves.

The R U OK? Convoy is part of a nationwide initiative to equip regional Australians with the knowledge and tools to start vital conversations around mental health. It’s not always easy to keep the conversation going when someone says they’re not OK, but doing so could change a life.

Mental health is important and Provisional Psychologist Aaron Christopher from Optimise Health and Wellness said it’s important for a number of reasons.

“If we have positive mental health, it allows us to view the world in a better way, allows us to be our best selves, and appreciate the world around us,” he said.

“If we fall into poor mental health. Those negatives start to stick a bit more, the world becomes a bit darker, and our options seem a bit more bleak. So, being able to have those conversations to improve our mental health allows us to be more open to the more positive aspects of the world.

“Having those initial conversations are ridiculously important, because sometimes we just need to be able to talk to someone and just feel heard.”

Aaron and his wife Kara, who is director of Optimise Health and Wellness, recently worked at the Recovery Centre and Aaron said 90% of people there just wanted to share their story and, by talking, people were able to lift that burden.

Aaron said being able to talk to someone is one of the key benefits of improving mental health.

“When we are in our own head, it spirals, and that becomes what we obsess about, we have the conversations inside ourselves," said Aaron.

“When we are in a negative head space, and it builds on itself like compounds. When you talk to someone else and feel heard, that connection allows you to feel like you're not alone. Being heard and hearing someone empathise validates your feelings.

“Lifting that burden allows you to be more open and expand those thoughts. So once that burden is gone, you stop thinking about those negatives, you stop ruminating, and you are then more open to other thoughts and more positive things.

“You’re able to be more appreciative and have that gratuity for the world and that gratefulness is now more apparent.”

Bring along your loved ones or just yourself, enjoy some chat and come together to support the message of hope and help in a safe space.

WHAT: R U OK? Conversation Convoy
WHERE: Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre Afternoon Tea
WHEN: Wednesday 9th April 3:30 pm - 5:30pm

Maintaining good mental health doesn’t always require major life changes — sometimes, it’s the small, everyday habits that make the biggest difference. Whether it’s social connection, gratitude, or exercise, finding what works for you is key. Here are simple ways to improve your mental well-being.

Social Connection
Engaging with others is a vital aspect of mental wellbeing. Whether it’s having a casual chat, checking in with friends and family, or participating in local sports, social interactions can provide a sense of belonging. Reaching out, even in small ways, helps strengthen relationships and build support networks.

Finding Joy in the Everyday
Discovering what brings joy can be deeply personal. For some, it’s walking the dog or tidying the house, while others find happiness in reading, playing games, or simply enjoying a well-prepared meal. Recognising and embracing these little moments can contribute to a more positive mindset.

The Benefits of Journaling
Writing down thoughts and moments of gratitude can be a powerful tool for mental clarity. Journaling helps people reflect on what they have, even the small joys of life, like a delicious breakfast or a peaceful morning. This simple habit can serve as a reminder of positivity, fostering a healthier outlook.

Exercise for Mental Health
Physical activity is closely linked to improved mental health. Whether it’s a short walk, lifting weights at the gym, or swimming a few laps, movement benefits both the body and mind. The key is to find an activity that suits personal ability and lifestyle.

By incorporating these small yet meaningful habits into daily life, individuals can take proactive steps toward improving their mental wellbeing.

Forrest Beach Takeaway isn’t just a place to grab a bite—it’s a cornerstone of the community, where homemade meals and fresh local seafood are served with a side of connection. For nearly a decade, Lisa and Richard Scobie have poured their hearts into the business, building more than just a menu; they’ve built a place where locals and visitors feel at home.

Neither Lisa nor Richard had experience in the food industry before taking over the takeaway, but returning to the Forrest Beach community was an opportunity they couldn’t pass up. The transition to business ownership wasn’t easy, and Lisa admits the learning curve was steep.

"It was really hard. I didn't expect it to be as hard as it was, but there is so much that we had to learn and that we're still learning now,” she said. “The changes economically that have happened in the last 10 years to business in Australia are absolutely mind-boggling."

One of the most important decisions they made was to stay committed to locally sourced seafood—particularly Spanish mackerel—despite rising costs and strict government-imposed quota restrictions.

"Imported products are a lot cheaper than our local product, but we've had to make the decision that we don't want to sell any imported fish. We only have Spanish mackerel, and if we have something different, it is locally caught."

Beyond seafood, the takeaway has expanded its offerings, balancing classic Aussie takeaway fare with authentic Asian dishes. From Monday to Thursday, they serve up hearty homemade meals, with their talented cook bringing a taste of Balinese cuisine to the menu.

"We have an extremely talented cook, and she does a lot of her authentic Balinese cooking, which is very popular."

The shop also prides itself on making its own pasta sauces, crumbed chicken, pizzas, lasagna, cakes, sweets, and biscuits, all available fresh in-store. Friday nights are dedicated to pizza.

More than just a place to eat, Forrest Beach Takeaway has also become a training ground for local youth.

"It's not about making fish and chips. It's about learning how to work in a work environment,” Lisa said. “We’ve been incredibly successful in making sure our juniors have gone on to do exactly what they want, whether it's studying, full-time employment, or apprenticeships."

Lisa and Richard have built more than a business—they’ve found a sense of belonging in Forrest Beach, a community they cherish.

"We're lucky, and we are very happy to be at the beach. You share the good moments and the tough ones with people. You feel all the losses in the community, but you get to celebrate the wins as well."

Lisa and Richard look forward to many more years of serving great food, mentoring young locals, and being part of the fabric of Forrest Beach.

There's been a lot of talk recently about the Olympics. The 2032 Games will be a major event for Queensland, but there’s no doubt it will be a costly exercise, one that risks draining the state’s budget while delivering little for our regions. Brisbane is set to reap the lion’s share of the benefits, while the rest of the state is left to fight for a fair slice of the funding.

With less than a decade to prepare, all levels of government are scrambling to ensure we’re “Olympics-ready.” But while the focus is on venues, accommodation, and high-performance sports precincts, regional Queensland is still battling the same old problems; roads that are falling apart or not fit for purpose, a lack of essential services, and the constant feeling of being left behind. I find it hard to justify billions on Olympic infrastructure when the roads we drive on daily, and our hospitals that we rely on, are not adequately resourced.

That’s not to say the games will bring no benefits to the regions. It’s good to see sports like sailing coming to Townsville and the Whitsundays, and other parts of the state securing some events and funding. But let’s be honest, the vast majority of Olympic spending is being concentrated in Brisbane. If the games are going ahead, whether we like it or not, then regional Queensland must do everything in its power to claim its fair share of the funding pie.

With the state government committing to go ahead with the Olympics, I believe it must not come at the cost of nation building infrastructure. We cannot afford to neglect our roads, rail, water, and energy infrastructure priorities, these are the foundations that will truly build Queensland and strengthen our state for generations to come.

It will be a true test for the state LNP government to deliver the projects regional Queensland desperately needs, while simultaneously holding the Brisbane Olympics party that south-east Queensland wants.

OPINION PIECE
Contributed by Nick Dametto MP Member for Hinchinbrook

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During the floods earlier this year, Colleen Wood and her husband Allen found themselves in a terrifying and isolating situation. Living in Trebonne, they were stranded with no power, no food, and minimal phone charge. Allen is confined to a wheelchair and the SES and Ambulance services were unable to reach them due to the floods.

But in the face of adversity, the community around them stepped up in a remarkable way. Colleen, overcome with emotion and relief, shared her experience with Hinchinbrook Life through a heartfelt letter:

“On day two of the floods, a ute pulled up in the flooded driveway and two strangers asked if I was okay. I was filled with emotion and relief and could scarcely hold back my tears when I said to them, ‘My husband is in a wheelchair, and we need help.’”

These strangers, Vince Russo and Brenda Oats, became her lifeline during the crisis. “Vince and Brenda were angels on earth for us,” Colleen said. “They assisted us with fuel for our generator, filled it, started it, and came back each morning and night to top it up.” Their kindness helped ensure Colleen and Allen had a working generator to keep their essentials running.

But the help didn’t stop there. Another neighbor, David Scott, a farmer from up the road, checked on them daily and even brought a stable table for the generator. When the generator broke down, Kenny Hemmet from Hemmet Electricals loaned them one of his own.

In yet another gesture of support, Joe and Heather Ludlow, who lived just two houses away, offered Colleen a place to charge her phone when the generator failed.

And there was more. Danny Ward, a neighbor to the left of Colleen and Allen’s home, loaned them a freezer connected to a battery to help preserve their food.

“I was overwhelmed by these people,” Colleen reflected. “We owe them a debt of gratitude for their generosity, kindness, and sense of community. I hope they understand the difference they have made to our lives.”

Following the closure of the Community Recovery Hub at the TAFE Building on Townsville Rd, transitional arrangements have been made for officers to assist the community from the new office, which will be located at 73-81 Lannercost Street, commencing Tuesday, April 1st.

As the recovery process continues to progress forward, any local residents still seeking assistance have the opportunity to visit the Community Information and Referral Centre that will have staff available to respond to any enquires and assist with finalising provision of additional information relating to grant applications, that have now closed.

Throughout the time this weather and flooding event has impacted the Hinchinbrook Shire, Chamber has been working tirelessly to provide information, support and facilitate individual appointments for local business owners. Chamber will also have a presence at the Community Information and Referral Hub and will work alongside the Recovery Officers to continue to provide this support to the business and broader community.

As planning progresses, the community will have the opportunity visit the Centre and request referrals or schedule appointments with representatives from various agencies who have previously had a presence at the Community Recovery Hub. Private consulting rooms and office space will also be available for confidential and discreet appointments.

Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Tourism will continue to play an integral role in the recovery process, recognising this journey will be more of a marathon, than a sprint. For those business owners still wanting to make individual appointments with QRIDA representative Sam Spina, Chamber is now taking bookings for appointments between 1.30-4.30pm, at this Centre.

For further information, please contact the Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, industry & Tourism via email at admin@hinchinbrookchamber.com.au or phone 0407569550.

With the winter period fast approaching, it will soon be time to get your boat ready for some fishing trips. Now is the perfect time to check the expiry dates on your Marine Flares.

Please be aware that it is now an offence to carry expired flares in a boat. This is because they are technically an explosive device, and once past their use-by date could suffer a fault leading to an unwanted ignition.

In Queensland, when flares expire they are considered unauthorized explosives, and possessing them is illegal, posing safety risks due to potential instability and malfunction.

Expiry dates are written on the side of each flare.

You can hand in your expired flairs at the Lucinda Coast Guard Depot in Patterson Pde Lucinda on any weekend day or public holiday. They are held under lock and key until disposed of by the Mines Department.

Contributed with thanks to Steve Whipps, Commander Qf14 Lucinda Coast Guard

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Hello Hinchinbrook,

I hope everyone has had a fantastic week!

I come to you with a mix of emotions as I share some bittersweet news. This will be my final week with Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper as I transition back to the Whitsunday office, where I’ll be continuing my work as a journalist for our sister publication.

It has truly been an honour to be part of the team that brought print media back to this region, and I’m immensely proud of what we’ve achieved together. It fills me with pride to know that the community has embraced what Hinchinbrook Life has brought to the area.

In my time here, I’ve witnessed my first natural disaster, contributed to a newspaper launch that brought the community together, and met so many incredible people from across the Hinchinbrook Shire.

None of this would have been possible without the amazing support of the broader Life Publishing Group team and many members of the local community.

I’d also like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Mayor Ramon Jayo and the Hinchinbrook Shire Council for championing this paper for the people. It was actually Ramon who approached us with the idea of bringing print media back to the region, and that conversation sparked the creation of Hinchinbrook Life.

A huge thank you also goes to the local businesses and the community—you are the reason this paper is in your hands every week. We couldn’t do it without you.

Though this is my goodbye, Hinchinbrook Life is in great hands. For the past three months, Victoria has been training in the Whitsunday Life office, meeting the community, and preparing for this move up here. Victoria is eager to connect with all of you, and you can learn more about them on page 11.

This isn’t a full goodbye just yet—I’ll still be around until Thursday, so we may cross paths before I head off.

Thank you, Hinchinbrook, for the unforgettable experience.

Take care!

Before the advent of modern highways and air travel, North Queensland’s coastal waters teemed with small ships, serving as vital links between communities and transporting passengers and goods.

Up until 1881, a fleet of small vessels operated between Townsville and Cairns, with Dungeness serving as a vital port of call along the route.

Among the first steamers to service this passage were the Dugong and the Porpoise, pioneering transport along the rugged coastline. In 1881, a significant advancement came with the importation of a paddle steamer from England.

This vessel played a crucial role in ferrying passengers upstream from Dungeness, further enhancing connectivity in the region.

The legacy of these early steamers remains a fascinating chapter in the Hinchinbrook region’s rich maritime history.