Wet Tropic Waterways Chair Simon Costanzo and Wet Tropic Waterways Partnership Executive Officer Rowan Hutchinson with the 2026 Wet Tropics Waterways Health Report Card and Reef & Rivers Magazine. Photo supplied: Terrain NRM

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The Herbert River catchment has continued to demonstrate resilience despite one of the region's most significant flood events in recent years, according to the latest Wet Tropics Waterway Health Report Card.

Released this week, the report found waterways across the Wet Tropics continue to record "good" to "moderate" health, with long-term monitoring showing conditions have remained relatively stable despite repeated climate challenges.

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The report highlights the impact of February 2025's extreme rainfall, when more than two metres fell across parts of the lower Herbert region, triggering widespread flooding around Ingham.

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"This pushed low-salinity flood waters onto inshore coral reefs, impacting coral condition," Wet Tropics Waterways Chair Dr Simon Costanzo said.

Despite the impacts of flooding, the report found the region's waterways have remained resilient over time.

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"With more than a decade of consistent, independent monitoring, we can look beyond seasonal fluctuations and better understand how our waterways are faring over time. So far, they seem to be holding ground, which highlights how important it is for everyone to stay focused on taking action," Dr Costanzo said.

The report card draws on 11 years of scientific monitoring to assess the health of rivers, estuaries and coastal waters throughout the Wet Tropics, providing valuable insights into long-term environmental trends.

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Queensland Environment and Tourism Minister Andrew Powell said continued investment in improving water quality remained vital to protecting the Great Barrier Reef and the waterways that feed into it.

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The Wet Tropics Waterway Health Report Card is released annually by Wet Tropics Waterways as part of ongoing efforts to monitor and improve the health of waterways across North Queensland.

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More detailed information about the Wet Tropics Waterway Health Report Card and results can be found at wettropicswaterways.org.au/wet-tropics-report-card

(Contributed with thanks by Terrain NRM)

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EVE EXELBY Accepting Bursary from Geoff Low, Member of Herbert River Farmers League. Photo supplied

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On Saturday 4th July, the Herbert River Farmers' League hosted its Annual Bursary Presentation Evening at the Herbert River RSL. This year's bursary recipients were Gemma Di Bella and Eve Exelby.

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Gemma is now enrolled in the Faculty of Agricultural Science at the University of Queensland's Gatton campus, while Eve is studying Paramedicine at Central Queensland University in Rockhampton.

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Both students were accompanied by their parents, Mr and Mrs L. Di Bella and Mr and Mrs B. Exelby. A special moment in the evening came when it was revealed that Mr B. Exelby was himself a recipient of a Herbert River Farmers' League bursary in 1982, when he studied at Burdekin Agricultural College.

This year marks the presentation of the 120th and 121st bursaries since the Herbert River Farmers' League shifted its focus from representing farmers' interests to supporting educational pursuits. The origin, growth and development of the Herbert River Farmers' League is both fascinating and historically significant.

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The Farmers' League was formed in 1897, comprising delegates from various Planters' Clubs, beginning with the Halifax Planters' Club, which was associated with the sugar cane industry. The Farmers' League became a company in 1923, enabling it to purchase farmers' equipment at more affordable prices than those offered by commercial suppliers at the time.

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In 1977, the League began its educational support program, agreeing to assist students from the district who wished to attend the Queensland Agricultural College in the Burdekin. With the closure of the Halifax Planters' Club in 2008, the Herbert River Farmers' League Incorporated became the last surviving link with the early cane planters of the Herbert River district.

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From a small beginning in 1977, the League has invested more than $400,000 in bursaries to support the education of local students. The League congratulates this year's bursary recipients on their outstanding academic achievements and trusts this financial assistance will contribute to successful and rewarding careers.

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(Contributed with thanks by Maurice Filei, with assistance by Victoria Velton)

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Pop in and have a chat with Telstra in the Woolworths Ingham carpark. Photo supplied: Telstra

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Contributed by Telstra

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Telstra is looking forward to meeting locals in Hinchinbrook, answering connectivity questions, and helping customers get the most from their services. Whether you're considering a mobile upgrade, improving your home internet, or simply exploring your options, our team will be on hand to help.

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We're especially excited to showcase Telstra Satellite Messaging and Telstra Satellite Apps. Introduced in partnership with SpaceX's Starlink Direct to Cell network, Satellite Messaging allows eligible customers with compatible devices to send and receive SMS when outside mobile coverage, provided they have a clear view of the sky. Telstra Satellite Apps builds on this capability by providing lite data access to selected Telstra apps beyond the reach of the mobile network.

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For many people across regional and rural Australia, connectivity is more than a convenience, it's essential. Whether you're working on a property, travelling, exploring the outdoors, or faced with an unexpected situation, satellite connectivity can provide a way to connect when mobile coverage isn't available.

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Technology continues to evolve rapidly, and understanding the options can be challenging. That's why our team will be available in the Woolworths carpark this Wednesday to provide practical advice and support. Whether you'd like a bill health check, information on Telstra Plus rewards, guidance on mobile coverage solutions, or advice for your home or small business, we're here to help.

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Come and have a chat with the team. We'd love to see you there.

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WHAT: Telstra in Hinchinbrook

WHEN: Throughout the day, Wednesday 5th, August

WHERE: Woolworths Carpark, Ingham

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Tilapia are mouth brooders, carrying and protecting the next generation. The young can survive if the dead mother fish is thrown back into the water. Photo source: DPI QLD

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Invasive Tilapia Raise Concerns In Hinchinbrook

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By Victoria Velton

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Local fishers say one of Australia's most destructive pest fish is becoming an increasingly common sight in Hinchinbrook waterways, raising concerns for native fish and the future health of the region's aquatic ecosystems.

For nearly five decades, Jeff Snell has watched the waterways of the Hinchinbrook region change.

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A member of the Cardwell Sportfishing Club since 1978, Jeff grew up fishing alongside his father and has spent a lifetime learning the rhythms of local rivers, estuaries and creeks. While changing seasons, weather and fish populations are all part of life on the water, one change has increasingly caught his attention in recent years: the spread of tilapia.

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“People are seeing more of them,” Jeff said.  

“It's throwing the ecosystem out of balance.”

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Once kept as ornamental aquarium fish, tilapia are now regarded by Queensland's Department of Primary Industries as one of Australia's greatest threats to native freshwater biodiversity. Established populations now exist throughout much of Queensland's east coast, with the hardy fish capable of surviving in rivers, creeks, drains, dams and even tidal estuaries.

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Jeff believes many of the infestations now being seen across North Queensland can be traced back decades, when aquarium fish were released into waterways around Townsville before gradually spreading through connected catchments during floods and wet seasons.

"People think they're only a freshwater fish, but they actually adapt to saltwater as well. Once you get floods and waterways connecting, they can move into new areas very quickly."

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That ability to survive in both fresh and brackish water has helped make tilapia one of Queensland's most successful invasive fish.

Unlike many native species, tilapia tolerate poor water quality, low oxygen levels and a wide range of temperatures. They reproduce rapidly, with female tilapia protecting fertilised eggs by carrying them in their mouths until the young are developed enough to survive.

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"It's one of the reasons they spread so easily," Jeff explained.

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"If the female moves into another creek during a flood, she's carrying the next generation with her."

The Department of Primary Industries says tilapia can quickly dominate waterways thanks to their prolific breeding, simple diet and ability to adapt to almost any aquatic environment. They compete with native fish for food and habitat, aggressively defend breeding sites and disturb aquatic vegetation while building nests, crowding out other fish.

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For recreational anglers, the growing population is becoming increasingly noticeable.

Jeff recalls hearing of tilapia being caught near the mouth of Fisher Creek as far back as the 1980s, demonstrating their ability to move through tidal systems as well as freshwater habitats.

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He also points to established populations in places such as Warrina Lakes near Innisfail, where community fishing competitions are held to help reduce local numbers.

"They're not put back into the water," he said.

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"That's part of the rules. Once you catch one, it stays out."

Under Queensland's Biosecurity Act, tilapia are classified as restricted invasive fish. They must not be returned to the water, used as bait, kept alive or moved between waterways. Anyone catching one is required to humanely destroy the fish before disposing of it appropriately.

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Despite being considered good eating in many parts of the world, Jeff said their value as a food fish is outweighed by the environmental risk they pose.

"There's nothing wrong with eating them," he said, "The important thing is that they don't go back into the water."

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While there is currently no practical broad-scale method of eradicating established tilapia populations, Jeff believes public awareness remains one of the strongest tools available.

"People need to understand why you can't just release unwanted aquarium fish into local creeks or rivers. What seems like one harmless fish can become thousands over time. Destroying habitats and the loss of millions of native fish for that one pet fish.”

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His concerns come as the Queensland Government strengthens its frontline response to invasive species across the state, with additional biosecurity officers being deployed across regional Queensland and an increased ranger presence across North Queensland to help protect the state's natural assets.

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For Jeff, however, protecting Hinchinbrook's waterways will require more than government resources alone.

"It's something the whole community has to be aware of," he said.

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"If we all do the right thing, we've got a better chance of protecting the native fish that belong here."

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"It's about everyone understanding what's at stake," he said.

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One of the more surprising places tilapia are turning up is inside local prawn farms.

Jeff recently spoke with a worker responsible for water management at one of Cardwell's prawn farms, who described the number of tilapia appearing in production ponds as "unbelievable".

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Interestingly, the fish are not considered a major threat to prawn production.

"They're algae eaters," Jeff explained.

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"They're not there eating the prawns. They're feeding on algae growing in the ponds."

While farm filtration systems prevent fish escaping back into surrounding waterways, their presence demonstrates just how widespread tilapia have become throughout the region.

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Perhaps the strongest message Jeff hopes people take away is that many invasive species begin with people trying to do what they think is the right thing.

He imagines a family moving house, unsure what to do with a child's pet fish.

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"They think, 'We'll let it go in the creek.'"

"It seems harmless, but that's how these things start."

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He believes aquarium owners should never release unwanted fish into local waterways, no matter the species.

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"That information should be given to everyone who buys aquarium fish," he said.

"When you don't want it anymore, don't let it go."

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Know The Rules

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If you catch a tilapia in Queensland:

Do not release it back into the water.
Humanely destroy the fish immediately.
Do not use it as bait.
Do not move it to another waterway.
Dispose of it by burying it away from the waterway or placing it in a rubbish bin.
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How To Identify A Tilapia

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While several species exist, tilapia share some distinctive features:

A deep, laterally compressed body.
One long, continuous dorsal fin running almost the full length of the back.
Dark bars, blotches or spots depending on the species.
Commonly found in slow-flowing creeks, drains, dams, rivers and tidal estuaries.
Able to survive in both fresh and brackish water.
As Jeff sees it, the battle against tilapia won't be won with a single fishing competition or government program.

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"Once they're established, they're almost impossible to remove. The best thing we can do now is stop them spreading any further."

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Mrs Maryjane Masina of St Rita's School Babinda was named Teacher of the Year at the 2026 Docemus Awards. Photo source: St Rita's School, Babinda

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St Rita's School, Babinda, has been busy celebrating after one of its own was named Primary Teacher of the Year at the prestigious 2026 Docemus Awards held over the weekend.

Mrs Maryjane Masina received the honour during Catholic Education Week after being selected from nine nominees in the Primary School Teacher category at the ceremony hosted by St Mary’s Catholic College in Cairns.

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Since its inception in 2002, the Docemus Awards, meaning "to teach", have recognised the outstanding commitment, achievements and contributions of staff, volunteers and supporters across Catholic education.

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Held annually, the awards celebrate excellence across seven categories, including Primary Teacher, Secondary Teacher, Early Career Teacher, Leadership, School Officer, Volunteer and Lifelong Contribution.

Sharing the news on social media, St Rita's School congratulated Mrs Masina on the achievement.

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"Congratulations Mrs Maryjane Masina. We are so proud. Teacher of the Year 2026. So well deserved," the school wrote.

As part of the award, recipients receive a professional development grant to support their continued growth and excellence in education.

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Cassowary Coast Regional Council has secured $5.1 million to support future residential development at Coquette Point. Photo supplied

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The Cassowary Coast is set to benefit from a $5.1 million State Government investment to help unlock future residential development at Coquette Point through the second round of the Residential Activation Fund.

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The funding will deliver essential trunk infrastructure, including a new water pump station, a 4.75-kilometre water main and associated works, paving the way for future housing in the region.

The project forms part of the Queensland Government's Residential Activation Fund, which invests in the roads, water and sewerage infrastructure needed before new residential developments can proceed.

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The Coquette Point project is one of two Far North Queensland initiatives announced under Round 2 of the fund, with a total of $9.6 million allocated across the region. The program has now unlocked capacity for more than 100,000 homes across Queensland in less than 18 months.

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Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jarrod Bleijie said the fund was removing key barriers to increasing housing supply.

"The Residential Activation Fund is pulling every lever to increase housing supply because you can't build homes without the roads, water and sewerage infrastructure to support them," Mr Bleijie said.

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"The Residential Activation Fund has now unlocked more than 100,000 homes across Queensland, demonstrating exactly what's possible when government partners with councils, landowners and developers to remove barriers to housing."

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Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa said the investment would support the region's future growth.

"Communities across the Far North need more homes, and that starts with investing in the essential infrastructure that makes new housing possible," Mr Chiesa said.

"The Crisafulli Government is delivering the critical water infrastructure needed at Coquette Point to unlock future residential development and support the Cassowary Coast's continued growth."

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"We're investing in the infrastructure our communities need to create more housing opportunities for Queenslanders."

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Cassowary Coast Regional Council Mayor Teresa Millwood welcomed the funding, describing it as a significant step towards unlocking new residential land.

"By supporting the delivery of essential trunk infrastructure, this funding will help unlock land for future residential development and provide more housing opportunities for our growing community," Mayor Millwood said.

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"We thank the Queensland Government for recognising the importance of infrastructure-led housing growth in the Cassowary Coast."

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"This funding will enable Council to advance the trunk infrastructure needed to open up Coquette Point, support new development and give greater confidence to landowners, developers and future residents."

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Across the first two rounds of the Residential Activation Fund, the Queensland Government has committed almost $117 million to 23 projects across Far North Queensland, unlocking capacity for more than 3,280 new homes. The Coquette Point project is among the first rural and remote Queensland projects announced under Round 2.

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Environmental restoration projects are continuing across Mission Beach, including works to restore Jingu Creek and improve the health of surrounding coastal ecosystems. Photo source: Shutterstock

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$100,000 has been dedicated to restoration of Jingu Creek; a small waterway in Mission Beach damaged during the 2025 North and Far North Tropical Low.

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Running from the Wet Tropics to the coast, Jingu Creek was among several waterways significantly impacted by the disaster, which affected Queensland between 29th January and 28th February 2025. The funding will enable the council to remove inorganic debris from the creek, restore surrounding habitat, improve water quality and support the long-term recovery of the waterway's ecosystem following the natural disaster.

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As per the funding application guidelines, the restoration of Jingu Creek must be completed by 31st March 2027.  

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Jingu Creek’s recent restoration exists as one of several environmental recovery projects underway across the region, aimed at repairing waterways damaged by recent flooding and severe weather while protecting local ecosystems and improving water quality entering the Great Barrier Reef.

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The project was funded through the Queensland Government's Environmental Recovery and Stewardship Grants Program, which has also dedicated $9,990 to Community for Coastal and Cassowary to undertake environmental clean-up and weed control works along the Mission Beach Foreshore.

Stunning View Beach Mission Beach Cassowary Stock Photo 607262039 | Shutterstock

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Lions Club of Tully recently visited Normanton’s Gulf Christian College as part of the Lions Children's Vision Screening Program. Photo supplied  

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The Lions Club of Tully is continuing its long tradition of community service by helping protect the eyesight of local children through the Lions Children's Vision Screening Program.

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As part of the Australia-wide initiative, club members have been visiting local primary schools to conduct free vision screenings, helping identify potential eye conditions that may otherwise go unnoticed during a child's early years.

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The program is designed to detect vision issues before they begin affecting a child's learning, development and everyday life, allowing families to seek further assessment and treatment if required.

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Lions Club of Tully Secretary Irene Braddick said supporting the local community had always been at the heart of the club's mission, with children's eye health becoming one of its many valued community initiatives.

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Members also support programs including childhood cancer research, eye health, children's mobility, wellbeing initiatives and assistance dogs.

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Commemorative Cake in celebration of the huge milestone. Photo Supplied  

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The Tully Tyson Masonic Lodge celebrated their centenary over the weekend along with the installation of new master; Jordan Villaruz.  

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The Freemasons are a diverse group of men from all walks of life, with different backgrounds and religions. At the heart of the group, they look to support one another and to help their communities prosper.  

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The Freemasons in Tully held their first meeting in a private house in 1925. A lodge room was found and approved by the District Grand Master in February 1926. 30 years later, the lodge had grown so much that members proposed a second lodge. Thus Tully’s ‘Daughter Lodge’ was consecrated in 1957 and named Mt Tyson. In 1989 the two lodges eventually merged together to become Tully Tyson Lodge.  

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Today, the Tully Tyson Masonic Lodge are active within the community where they host mostly raffles and BBQ’s. They host public events like the ANZAC Day service supported by local schools and the air cadets.  

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Club secretary Alf Macdonald was delighted with the turnout for the evening’s proceedings.  

“There were 73 present including Tully Tyson members. We are looking forward to a great year [and] we have a new member.”  

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The group welcome visiting brethren from all recognised constitutions and enquiries from new prospective members.  

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Q. Mayor, two rounds of grant funding are now open - can you update us on that?
Community Programs and Initiatives Round 1 and Community Infrastructure Program are now open!
If you’re a community member or from a local community group, up to $30,000 is available for projects, initiatives, events or infrastructure improvements.
Apply on our website or call us; grants close on 28th August.

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Q. Council has recently secured $5.1 million - can you tell us more about that?
Yes, that’s right! $5.1 million has been secured to deliver critical water infrastructure that will support future residential development at Coquette Point.
The funding will deliver a new water pump station, a 4.75-kilometre water main and associated infrastructure, improving water security for existing residents
while providing the essential services needed to unlock future housing opportunities in the area.

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Q. Could you tell us what the Youth Advisory Committee is about?
Of course! The Youth Advisory Committee is a fantastic opportunity for young people aged 15 to 24 across the Cassowary Coast to have their voices heard
and help shape the future of our region. We’re looking for three members each from Innisfail, Tully, Mission Beach, and Cardwell to share their ideas, advise Council on youth issues, and work with us on creating a region where young people want to live, work, and stay.
Expressions of Interest are open now and close on 16th August. Visit yoursay.cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au
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Q. Could you tell us more about community feedback on the Innisfail CBD Waterfront revitalisation project?
Yes, the Innisfail CBD Waterfront Precinct community consultation is live, and we encourage everyone to have their say

The consultation focuses on revitalising the riverfront and public spaces in Innisfail’s town centre, based on the 2023 Masterplan.
We’re seeking community input to help guide future planning and potential funding. This consultation closes on the 10h of August.
Your input is vital; please visit our website to get involved.
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Q.Mayor, the Etty Bay Bridge is now complete!
Yes, Council has now finished construction of the Etty Bay bridge upgrade. It is now open for two-lane traffic.
I want to thank the on-ground team, project team and contractors, who did their best throughout the wet season to complete this work.
A reminder to our community to take care when driving to Etty Bay, home to our beautiful cassowaries. Please drive slowly, stay alert, and watch for wildlife.
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Q. It's shorebird season! Please tell us about that!
That’s right, it’s shorebird season on the Cassowary Coast!
Shorebirds need to conserve their energy. When disturbed, they are forced to fly away, using valuable energy needed for migration, feeding and breeding. Please keep your dog on a leash when visiting beaches, unless you are in a designated off-leash area. If you see birds gathered on the beach, give them plenty of space and avoid
walking or driving through flocks. By respecting wildlife and following beach regulations, we can all help protect these remarkable birds and the unique natural environment that makes the Cassowary Coast so special.
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We've also launched our new Shorebird and Sea Turtle Monitoring Program, with 18 volunteers attending the first training session. If you are wanting to get involved, go to Council’s website and type in Shorebirds. Or call Council on 1300 763 903

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A close-up of a honeybee covered in varroa mites. Photo sourced: Shutterstock

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Local and visiting beekeepers, along with anyone interested in protecting Australia's honey bee population, are invited to a free information session in Ingham this August focusing on one of the industry's biggest emerging threats: the Varroa mite.

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Hosted by the Townsville District Beekeepers Association Inc. (TDBAI), the workshop will feature a presentation and live demonstration of a Varroa Controller machine, along with a range of other methods available to help monitor and manage the destructive pest.

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Varroa mite is now well established in South East Queensland and has devastated bee hives in parts of Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria. The tiny parasitic mite feeds on developing and adult bees, weakening colonies by spreading viruses and reducing their ability to survive. Left unmanaged, infestations can lead to the collapse of entire hives, posing significant challenges for beekeepers and industries that rely on honeybees for pollination.

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The TDBAI recently secured grant funding to take the Varroa Controller machine on a regional education tour. Following successful workshops in Townsville, the Burdekin, Charters Towers and the Whitsundays, the Ingham session will continue the initiative by providing practical demonstrations and expert advice closer to home.

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Organisers say the workshop is open to everyone, not just members of beekeeping clubs, making it an ideal opportunity for hobbyists, commercial apiarists and anyone curious about the importance of protecting honeybees to attend. A light lunch will be provided, to register and for catering purposes, RSVP by emailing

‍info@beesnorth.com.au

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WHAT: Varroa Mite Management Demonstration
WHEN: Sunday, August 9, 2026, 9:30am
WHERE: Herbert River RSL, Hawkins Street, Ingham

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The fibreglass runabout and JJ made it safely back to Dungeness. Photo credit: QF-14 Coast Guard

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Two locals took their recently serviced fibreglass runabout for a cruise up the Hinchinbrook Channel this week but only got as far as Haycock Island before the motor gave up the ghost. A quick call to Lucinda Coast Guard was made before they dropped anchor and waited for help.

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A crew of two volunteers launched our secondary vessel, JJ, and headed over the bar on a dropping tide, well aware of the need to get back over it before they ran out of water.

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After a 10-minute trip, the distressed vessel was sighted, a towline attached, and the return journey commenced.

Both vessels made it safely back over the sandbar and returned to the ramp at Dungeness without incident.

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Any time you head out on the water, things can, and often do, go wrong. A fully charged phone and our Bat-phone number (0429 778 110) are essential to have with you.

Stay safe on the water.

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(With thanks to the QF-14 Coast Guard and Commander Steve Whipps)

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Council says do not dispose of any form of wipes by flushing down the toilet. Image sourced: Pexels

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Hinchinbrook Shire Council are alerting the community to a recent increase in “flushable” wipes causing blockages throughout the sewer network and operational issues at Council's Sewerage Treatment Plant.

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Council said that while some products are marketed as "flushable", many wipes do not break down in the same way as toilet paper once they enter the sewer system. Instead, they can accumulate in pipes, pumps and treatment equipment, leading to costly blockages and damage to essential infrastructure.

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The resulting issues can increase maintenance and repair costs, disrupt wastewater treatment operations and, in some cases, contribute to sewer overflows.

Residents and businesses are being asked to dispose of all wipes in the rubbish bin rather than flushing them. This includes baby wipes, cleaning wipes, disinfectant wipes, make-up wipes and personal hygiene wipes, regardless of whether they are labelled as flushable.

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Council said placing wipes in the bin instead of the toilet is a simple step that can help protect the region's wastewater infrastructure, reduce maintenance costs and support the reliable operation of the sewer network.

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Council thanked the community for its ongoing cooperation in helping maintain a safe, efficient and reliable sewerage system for the Hinchinbrook Shire.

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In 2025, 1Wing also celebrated its 75ths, this photo shows those who attended the Freedom of Entry Parade. Photo credit: Simone Lennox

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Since The Formation Of No. 3 Flight AIRTC INGHAM, QUEENSLAND

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103 Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets is proud to celebrate its 75th Anniversary in 2026, marking seventy-five years of service, leadership development and community involvement in the Hinchinbrook region.

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The squadron traces its origins to No. 3 Flight, Air Training Corps (AIRTC), which was officially formed in Ingham on 7 August 1951. What began as a small Air Training Corps flight has evolved over the decades into the modern 103 Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets.

Historical records from The History of North Queensland Squadron Air Training Corps by Flight Lieutenant Allan D. Wakeham reveal that No. 3 Flight AIRTC was established through the efforts of members of the Halifax Aero Club, local community leaders and Royal Australian Air Force personnel who recognised the value of providing aviation and leadership opportunities to local young people.

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The inaugural Flight Commander was Flight Lieutenant Reid Johnson, a respected local businessman and wartime navigator, who commanded the flight from its formation in 1951 until 1970. The original flight consisted of 21 cadets from across the district, many travelling from surrounding communities to attend parade nights and training activities.

Throughout its history, the squadron has played an important role in developing young people through leadership training, aviation education, fieldcraft, teamwork, citizenship and community service.  

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Generations of cadets have benefited from the opportunities provided by the organisation, with many former members going on to serve in the Australian Defence Force, emergency services and leadership roles within their communities.

The squadron has witnessed significant change over its seventy-five-year history, adapting to evolving training methods, organisational reforms and the changing needs of young Australians while maintaining its commitment to developing character, resilience and leadership.

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As part of the anniversary celebrations, 103 Squadron has introduced a commemorative 75th Anniversary emblem recognising both its origins as No. 3 Flight AIRTC and its continued service to the Ingham and Hinchinbrook communities. The design incorporates the iconic Huey helicopter long associated with the squadron and acknowledges the rich history of the unit.

A 75th Anniversary Dinner is also planned for Saturday the 5th September 2026 at the Herbert River Sub Branch RSL. The event will provide an opportunity for former and current cadets, staff, volunteers, families and supporters to reconnect, share memories and celebrate the achievements of the squadron over the past seventy-five years.

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"For 75 years, 103 Squadron has been developing young people from across the Hinchinbrook region. This anniversary provides an opportunity to recognise the dedication of the cadets, staff, volunteers and supporters who have contributed to the squadron's success and ensured its continued service to the community."

The squadron encourages former members and community supporters to share photographs, memorabilia and stories from their time with No. 3 Flight AIRTC and 103 Squadron as part of the anniversary celebrations.

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From its beginnings as No. 3 Flight AIRTC in 1951 to the Australian Air Force Cadets squadron it is today, 103 Squadron remains committed to developing the next generation of young Australians through challenge, opportunity and service.

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Key Milestones

7 August 1951 – No. 3 Flight AIRTC established in Ingham

1951 – Original intake of 21 cadets enrolled

1971 – Construction commenced on facilities at the current airfield location

1977 – Re-establishment and rebuilding of the cadet movement following national changes

1982 – Females were able to join the AIRTC, with the first female cadet to join at Ingham in November 1982

2001 – The Air Training Corps evolved and change its name to the Australian Air Force Cadets

2026 – 75th Anniversary of No.3 Flight AIRTC and 103 Squadron  

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About 103 Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets

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The 103 Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets is based in Ingham, Queensland, and forms part of the Australian Air Force Cadets. Since 1951, the unit has provided aviation focused youth development opportunities through leadership training, fieldcraft, community service, teamwork and adventure-based activities.

(Contributed with thanks by Corporal (AAFC) Simone Lennox of the c103 SQN AAFC)

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WHAT: 75th Anniversary Dinner 2026 of the 103 Sqn

WHEN: Saturday, 5th September, 2026
WHERE: Herbert River RSL.

For details and invite please email erin.cross@airforcecadets.gov.au

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All food business licence holders are reminded that current licences are due to expire at the end of August. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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Hinchinbrook Shire Council is reminding all food business licence holders that current licences are due to expire on Monday 31^st August.

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Renewal application forms have been emailed to licence holders, with businesses encouraged to complete and submit their applications before the expiry date to ensure they remain licensed and compliant.

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Council is urging any licence holder who has not received their renewal form to get in touch as soon as possible to avoid delays in processing their renewal.

Businesses requiring further information or a replacement renewal form can contact Hinchinbrook Shire Council by emailing council@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au or calling the customer service centre on (07) 4776 4600.

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