Dramatic footage of an overturned vehicle surfaced this week after heavy rains swept through the region, reminding drivers of the dangerous conditions that can arise from wet weather.

A local tour company announced on Saturday that they would not be travelling north as far as Tully due to dangerous conditions.

"Good morning everyone. Please note that driving conditions towards Tully are hazardous, especially at Whiting's Crossing, where a truck has also tipped over. We hope they are okay," said a spokesperson for Hop On Tours.

"To ensure the safety of both our passengers and staff, we will not be using this route as of 9am this morning. For those planning to travel to Tully, we will be taking an alternative route to prioritise the safety of everyone onboard."

Although the incident occurred further north, it serves as a timely reminder for all road users to exercise caution, especially when the weather turns. Wet roads, flooded crossings, and poor visibility can quickly turn a routine drive into a dangerous one.

Safety Tips for Drivers:

• Slow Down: Wet weather significantly reduces traction, so it's essential to drive at a safe, reduced speed.
• Check Tires: Ensure your tires have adequate tread depth for better grip on wet surfaces.
• Avoid Flooded Areas: If you see flooded roads, don’t attempt to drive through them. Even shallow water can cause vehicles to lose control or stall.
• Keep Distance: Increase the distance between your car and others to allow extra time to react to sudden changes.
• Use Your Headlights: In poor visibility, including heavy rain or fog, turn on your headlights to help other drivers see you.
• Stay Informed: Check local weather updates and road conditions before setting out, especially if traveling to areas prone to flash flooding.
• Remember, if roads are flooded, the safest option is to stay home. Don’t risk driving through water, as it can be difficult to gauge its depth and current.

Stay safe and drive cautiously.

Year 6 students from across the region are invited to take part in the High School Experience Day at Ingham State High School on Thursday, 20 March. This event offers a unique opportunity for students to explore high school life and get a firsthand look at what Ingham High has to offer.

The Experience Day will feature a variety of activities, school tours, and hands-on experiences, designed to help students feel more confident and excited about transitioning to high school. Ingham High hopes all Year 6 students will enjoy their time and gain valuable insights into their future education.

Students attending the event are reminded to wear their school uniform, bring closed-in shoes, a hat, and a water bottle. They should also bring an exercise book with pens/pencils for activities and either a packed lunch or money for the tuck shop.

Parents and caregivers can register their child by using the QR code provided on the event flyer or by calling the General Office at 4797 1333. Registration for state school students will be handled through their primary school.

For further details about Ingham State High School’s Transition Program, parents can contact Mr. Peter Bishop, Deputy Principal, at 4797 1333 or via email at admin@inghamshs.eq.edu.au.

This event is a great opportunity for Year 6 students to get a glimpse of high school life and begin to prepare for the next exciting chapter in their education.

Thread Together's mobile wardrobe made a meaningful stop in Cardwell last week, offering local residents in need access to free, brand-new clothing. On March 14th, the mobile wardrobe set up at the Cardwell Community Hall from 9am to 11am, providing much-needed clothing to those facing financial or personal challenges.

Since its founding in 2012, Thread Together has been a beacon of hope for Australians facing hardship, working to bridge the gap between excess fashion and clothing insecurity. The organization’s mission is simple: to ensure that every person has access to essential, brand-new clothing, regardless of their circumstances.

Thread Together was created by Andie Halas, who saw an opportunity to address two significant issues: fashion waste and clothing insecurity. Each year, millions of brand-new garments go to landfills, while at the same time, thousands of Australians experience hardship without access to basic clothing. Andie’s idea was revolutionary—why not redirect these unsold clothes to people who need them most? This simple yet impactful concept has since grown into a nationwide initiative, transforming lives across the country.

Since its inception, Thread Together has rescued millions of garments and given them a second life through its network of registered charities. These clothes are distributed free of charge to people experiencing crisis, homelessness, domestic violence, and the aftermath of natural disasters. Thread Together’s efforts create a sustainable solution to both fashion waste and clothing insecurity.

The process behind Thread Together’s work is both straightforward and impactful. Fashion brands donate new clothing, volunteers sort and distribute the items, and charities connect the organization with individuals in need. This partnership between fashion brands, volunteers, and charities ensures that clothing reaches those who require it most, restoring dignity and offering hope to those in crisis.

The Cardwell stop was part of Thread Together’s ongoing mission to make a difference across Australia. By bringing the mobile wardrobe to the Cardwell Recovery Hub, the organisation was able to provide valuable support to the local community. Residents were able to access new clothing at no cost, helping to ease some of the challenges many are currently facing.

Thread Together’s success would not be possible without the dedication of its volunteers, donors, and corporate partners. Those interested in supporting the initiative, whether by donating clothing or offering their time as volunteers, can visit Thread Together’s website to learn more.

Thread Together’s mission remains clear: to ensure that every person in need has access to new clothing, while also reducing the environmental impact of fashion waste. The mobile wardrobe’s visit to Cardwell was another step toward fulfilling that vision and offering hope to those who need it most.

Simon Hood, Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

As the ground dries out and activity picks up on farm, so does the activity of our Grower Marketing team. We are in the process of organising our popular shed meetings where we come on farm and update growers on our recent results, the global sugar market and new products or services we can offer.

This will be followed up in June with a regional tour by our Senior Sugar Trader Peter Bingham to deliver an in-depth analysis of global production and consumption forecasts and consequent price expectations. If you’re interested in attending one of these events near you, please reach out to your local consultant to register your interest.

While talking with growers, consultants have also been setting up the pricing mechanisms for the 2025 season and checking that GEI nomination estimates line up with initial crop estimates. For growers who want to control their pricing more closely we recommend using the Grower Managed Production Risk Scheme (GMPRS) for the last third of your 2025 season crop over the Production Risk Pool.

While the Production Risk Pool has been performing well over the past few years there is no guarantee of gaining a higher return versus pricing yourself and we have seen many growers achieve above average returns. Those growers who don’t market with Wilmar are unfortunately missing out even further, with our Production Risk Pool currently forecast to pay more than $23 a tonne higher than QSL’s Harvest Pool for the 2024 Season.

A quick reminder for growers that all Call, Target and GMPRS pricing for the 2024 season needs to be completed by 18 of April. On a similar timeline, the set-up of Call and Target pricing for the 2025 season needs to complete by the end of April, so the GMPRS nominations can be opened at the beginning of May. We are also getting plenty of enquiries about the opening of nominations for the 2026 season Managed Pool Plus, so stay tuned for further announcements on that opportunity.

When not helping growers with pricing and pooling information, the Grower Marketing consultants are out and about in the local communities. We are proud to have extended our sponsorship budget this year to include a range of sporting teams and community activities through the regions.

Recently several Wilmar Sugar and Renewables staff including our Burdekin Business Development Manager, Owen Richards, participated in an International Women’s Day Fun Run organised by Mater Chicks in Pink. The Sugar and Renewables team raised more than $1,200 for breast cancer research.

Hinchinbrook Shire Council is reminding North Queenslanders to take simple precautions after the recent flooding event to help stop the spread of weeds and pest animals.

Councillor Kate Milton, Chair of the Environment Sub Group said, “locals and travellers alike should heed warnings about the possible spread of biosecurity matters including dirt, plants and building materials.

"Weed seeds can be spread easily, but so can invasive pests such as Yellow Crazy Ants," she said.

“The floods were a devastating natural disaster, but if we are not careful, we might be faced with a natural disaster of a different kind – an increase and spread of weed infestations and the introduction of new pests,” Cr Milton advised.

Yellow Crazy Ants have already caused significant problems in Townsville and Cairns. These highly invasive ants form massive colonies and pose a serious threat to local wildlife, as they spray formic acid that can blind and kill small animals. They have been known to eliminate insect and bird populations in affected areas.

Council is urging residents to remain vigilant and report any sightings of unusual-looking ants. Yellow Crazy Ants can be transported through building materials, soil, and potted plants.

There are also a number of invasive weeds, including Gamba grass, Siam weed, and Navua sedge. Cr Kate Milton said people need to be aware of them.

Gamba grass has taken hold in several pockets of the Tablelands Regional Council area, and it is a significant concern due to its rapid spread and high flammability. This invasive species has now become an environmental hazard, increasing the risk of large-scale fires. It is already well-established in the Northern Territory, with its presence growing in Far North Queensland.

Another weed is Siam weed, which is spreading through the Herbert River area. Known for its aggressive growth, Siam weed can quickly overtake landscapes if not controlled promptly. While landowners have been managing it near their properties, the recent increase in river activity has raised concerns about its further spread downstream. Experts warn that if left unchecked, Siam weed could become a widespread issue, choking native vegetation and disrupting local ecosystems.

Nauva sedge is another persistent problem, particularly for cattle producers. This highly invasive weed is notorious for its resilience and rapid spread, making it a nightmare for farmers. Once established, it can be challenging to eradicate and can severely impact pasture quality and agricultural productivity.

Council acknowledges that everyone is busy with the clean-up. Still, it is also essential that all landholders remain vigilant for any new infestations that might take hold due to the floods and take action early if they see anything new on recently disturbed parts of their properties.

If you need assistance identifying pest weeds or further information regarding control measures, please call the Council’s Natural Assets team on 07 4776 4607.

Premier David Crisafulli was in Ingham last week to talk about the Stronger Homes Program, joined by State Member for Hinchinbrook Nick Dametto MP, State Disaster Recovery Coordinator Andrew Cripps, CEO of GIVIT Chris Staines, and homeowner Mark Hutchinson.

The Premier announced that the Stronger Homes Program was already gaining interest. 300 people expressed their interest in the program, and from Thursday, March 13, they would be able to access it and get back on their feet.

“It enables people to make sure that they don't have to replace the same things to the same standard in their house and expect a different result, it's about working with the insurance industry, working with builders, and making sure that when people are picking up the pieces, that they can do it in a stronger way to make them more resilient for the next time,” said Premier Crisafulli.

“So, it might be lifting a hot water system out of harm's way, lifting your power points, replacing carpets with tiles, doing the little things to make your home stronger.

“But in the end, we want people to be able to live in the communities they love, and we want to make them more resilient.”

Nick Dametto MP said people living in Ingham know that flooding may occur, but thanks to the new Stronger Homes Grant, they can better prepare.

“We know living here in the Hinchinbrook electorate, in the middle of the Hinchinbrook Shire right now, that we are prone to flooding, and this time of year, as you can see right now, it continues to rain,” he said.

“We are in the middle of the wet season, and we usually do build properties here that are actually able to sustain wet weather events, but making sure that we can make them more resilient and stronger for the next round is a win for everybody.”

State Disaster Recovery Coordinator Andrew Cripps was also present at the announcement and said $7.8 million in personal hardship grants had been issued to individuals who have been impacted by the flood event. This included 38,000 applications in multiple regions.

“This represents a boost to people who are trying to get back up on their feet after the impact of the flood event in terms of their personal circumstances,” said Mr Cripps.

“Yesterday (Wednesday 12 March) was an important announcement in terms of the uplift for the grants to businesses and primary producers across the impacted area.

“The Queensland recovery team and the Queensland Reconstruction Authority in particular have spent the last four weeks working diligently to secure the information, the data and the images required for the Queensland Government to make applications to the Commonwealth for uplift in those grants to businesses and primary producers.”

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Last week, I was in Brisbane for Parliament, and it was a busy week with plenty of important issues relevant to Hinchinbrook on the agenda.

One key topic I spoke about in the House was the urgent need for Castle Law in Queensland. I’ve held off on speaking about crime in Parliament to give the new government and Youth Justice Minister a chance to act, but things aren’t getting better, especially in North Queensland. We’ve seen some despicable crimes in both Cairns and Townsville recently, and recent law reforms simply don’t go far enough.

In the last month, Townsville recorded an average of nearly nine break-ins every day, and an average of more than three stolen cars per day, many of which were used in reckless joyrides, for committing further crimes, or were simply burnt out. These aren’t just numbers, they represent real families, business owners, and residents waking up to find their homes invaded and their cars gone, or worse.

No one should have to live in fear in their own home. That’s why I’ve been pushing for Castle Law, to give homeowners the legal right to defend themselves, their families, and their property without the risk of being charged for protecting what’s theirs.

I also submitted a Question on Notice to the Youth Justice Minister about the government’s version of bush sentencing, known as the Regional Reset Program. I’ve sought details of what this program will look like and when it will be rolled out.

Another critical topic in Hinchinbrook right now is Mount Spec Road up to Paluma which remains closed due to the damage suffered in the January-February weather event. We need to do more than just get the road re-opened, we need to see investment in betterment works to future-proof Mount Spec Road and mitigate the risk of future long-term closures. I sought assurance from the Transport and Main Roads Minister that this was part of the recovery plan.

I look forward to receiving responses to these questions. In the meantime, if anyone would like more information about any of the above, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our office.

Contributed with thanks to Nick Dametto MP Member for Hinchinbrook

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Three local fishermen found themselves stranded at Rib Reef after their boat's batteries failed, leaving them unable to start their engine. Despite Rib Reef being a notorious black spot for phone and marine radio reception, they managed to send a text message to a friend onshore, who rang Lucinda Coast Guard.

Upon receiving the distress call, a crew was quickly assembled, and the large rescue vessel "Snow Stafford" was launched. By 10:45 am, the crew was on the water, making use of just enough tidal coverage over the sandbar at Dungeness to reach the open ocean.

The rescue team travelled 60 kilometres out to the reef, where they located the stranded vessel. An initial attempt to restart the boat using a portable jump starter pack was unsuccessful. As a result, a tow line was attached, and the return journey commenced.

Fortunately, the weather was favourable, with relatively calm seas making for a smooth journey back. The fishermen and their boat were safely returned to the boat ramp at Dungeness without further incident.

This year to date the Lucinda Coast Guard has been called out six times, successfully rescuing 11 people in total.

Stay safe on the water.

Contributed with thanks to Steve Whipps Commander Qf14 Lucinda Coast Guard

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The Hinchinbrook Unit PCYC Emergency Services Cadets have resumed studies and over the last couple of weeks have been getting back into the swing of normality.

Emergency Services Cadets Local Cadet Coordinator Mark Regazzoli said that during the floods his cadets went above and beyond.

Mark noted that Keldon Fletcher was instrumental and stepped up during the event.

“Keldon was virtually thrown in at the deep end because there were no available agile wardens available for Lucinda,” said Mark.

“Keldon and his mother stepped up and took on that role and responsibility to go around and make sure everyone was okay, food was delivered, and all the messages got out that needed to.”

Mark is also proud of his other cadets too. His other cadets had just completed their Get Ready training, and they implemented the training in the flooding event.

“Most of them would have been aware of what they had to do and how they had to perform,” said Mark.

“Those that have returned, we have had to talk to them in our debrief to see how they went and what they did and all I can say is I think that I'm more impressed with some of the cadets than some of the adults that went through this!

“The cadets were definitely on the ball, and they had their mindset about what they should be doing and how they should be going about it. Not only during the flood, but in post recovery as well.”

The training is done every year as a precaution with refresher included too, this year it was completed the week before the flooding event.

At Ingham State High School, we recognise the importance of preparing our future students for secondary education and giving them the best chance of success as they move from primary to high school. With this in mind, we run a comprehensive Transition Program that involves all of our local primary schools.

Our Transition Program starts for our future students in Year 5, where they attend a full day of rotational activities mostly focussed on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths).

Similarly, for our future students in their final year of primary school, Year 6, we host four days throughout the year.

On these days the students get to meet teachers, year coordinators, leaders, and most importantly, other future students. The students get to tour the school and do some classroom-based activities, as well as fun games and challenges, including some Indigenous games. Our Year 9 Student Leaders play a key role as mentors, escorting the students around the school and helping them to feel comfortable in the high school environment.

Our feeder schools include all state schools in the district: Ingham, Trebonne, Macknade, Forrest Beach, Toobanna, Victoria Plantation, Mt Fox, Halifax, Abergowrie and Mutarnee. Students from Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School, Ingham and St Peter’s Catholic School, Halifax are also invited.

The first Year 6 High School Experience Day for 2025 is on Thursday 20 March, with further transition days planned for Thursday 22 May and Friday 23 May, and the final day on Monday 20 October. A Year 5 High School Experience Day will also be held on Thursday 31 July.

If parents/caregivers would like any further information on our Transition Program or enrolment information, please phone the school on (07) 4797 1333 or email admin@inghamshs.eq.edu.au

Contributed with thanks to Ingham State High School Principal Rod Flood

Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School, Ingham, has welcomed new Principal Jo Desailly,
who has returned to her hometown after seven years in Mount Isa.

Mrs Desailly’s homecoming is a significant moment for the school and wider
community, bringing her wealth of experience and passion for Catholic education to the
role. With a deep connection to Ingham, she is eager to build on the school’s strong
foundation of Faith, Education, Mercy, and Hope.

“I feel incredibly blessed to return home and serve the community that shaped me,”
Principal Jo Desailly said. “Our Lady of Lourdes has always had a reputation for
excellence, and I look forward to working alongside our dedicated staff, students, and
families to continue fostering a culture of learning, growth, and faith.”

For decades, Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School has been a cornerstone of the
Ingham community, delivering quality education that nurtures the whole child -
academically, spiritually, emotionally, socially, and physically. The school’s
commitment to high expectations, equal opportunities, and a supportive pastoral care
structure ensures that every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

“We are focused on providing a nurturing and inclusive environment where students
feel valued and supported,” Mrs Desailly said. “By working closely with parents, carers,
the parish, and the wider community, we can ensure that each student experiences
success and develops the skills they need to thrive in life.”

With a strong tradition of academic, sporting, and cultural success, Our Lady of Lourdes
continues to foster a love of learning while upholding the values of the Catholic faith.
The school’s mission is deeply embedded in daily life, creating a space where students
are encouraged to develop into compassionate, confident, and capable individuals.

“I am excited to lead this vibrant school community and to continue strengthening the
links between education, faith, and family,” she said. “Together, we will build on the rich
traditions of Our Lady of Lourdes and embrace the future with faith and hope.”

The Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School community warmly welcomes Jo Desailly and
looks forward to the new chapter ahead under her leadership.

Contributed with thanks to Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School, Ingham

Nestled within Hinchinbrook Island National Park, Deluge Inlet is a pristine estuary teeming with life. Protected by National Park, World Heritage, and Wild Rivers legislation, this untouched haven boasts mangrove forests, seagrass beds, and thriving marine life.

A vital nursery for countless species, its waters are home to dolphins, sea turtles, and abundant fish. Whether you're a wildlife lover or nature seeker, Deluge Inlet offers an unforgettable escape.

Explore its tranquil waters, embrace the serenity, and witness the wonders of an unspoiled ecosystem. To keep it pristine, tread lightly and respect its delicate balance.

Experience Deluge Inlet—where nature thrives, and adventure awaits.

The Vinnies store in Ingham is offering flood recovery grants to assist residents impacted by recent flooding. However, volunteers are concerned that many people believe the store is completely closed due to its current appearance. They are urging the community to reach out for assistance, as help is still available for those in need.

While the store is closed for regular retail operations, it remains open for flood relief services. Residents who require financial assistance can schedule an appointment by calling 1800 846 643. Volunteers at Vinnies are available to guide applicants through the process and help them access the support they need.

The official government flood relief grants closed last Friday, but Vinnies will continue to offer aid for as long as funds remain available. The organisation is committed to ensuring that no one in the community is left without essential support during this challenging time.

Vinnies provides assistance in two ways, Financial Relief Through Grants and Essential Aid. While Vinnies does not provide direct cash payments, it ensures that assistance reaches those who need it in practical and meaningful ways.

Vinnies is encouraging anyone who is struggling to reach out and apply for assistance. Their dedicated team is on hand to help residents navigate the application process, ensuring that they receive the aid they are entitled to.

To schedule an appointment, call the Vinnies disaster relief call centre at 1800 846 643. The volunteers in Ingham are ready to assist with applications and provide guidance on the available support options.

As flood-affected residents work to rebuild their lives, Vinnies remains dedicated in its mission to support the community. The organisation has a long history of helping Australians in times of crisis, and their efforts will continue for as long as there is a need.

Local volunteers are working tirelessly to ensure that aid reaches those who require it most, but they stress that many people are unaware that assistance is still available. They encourage anyone in need, whether they have sought help before or not, to make a quick phone call and arrange an appointment.

In times of disaster, community support is vital. Vinnies urges everyone to share this information with friends, family, and neighbours who may be struggling in the aftermath of the floods.

For assistance, call 1800 846 643 today to make an appointment and access available support.

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As I write this week’s Councillor Column, I do so as your community Councillor and the Chair of the Human and Social Subgroup for the Master Recovery Group.

Our district’s recovery is progressing well, with a strong focus on housing, mental health, donations, youth, seniors, and supporting local organisations and clubs.

Support is available for farmers—please reach out to your local farming representatives or agricultural organisations for assistance. QRIDA is also available to provide financial assistance and recovery support.

While we continue rebuilding, it’s equally important to prioritise our health and wellbeing.

Community Updates:
• Halifax Sub-Branch Library is open (please see public notices for operating hours);
• Hinchinbrook Shire Library remains closed until further notice;
• TYTO Conference and Events Centre - Office one, Jacana, Whistler, and Monarch rooms are available to
hire;
• Morning Melodies and performances continue at the Hinchinbrook Shire Hall; and
• Hinchinbrook Aquatic Centre is bustling with children back at swimming lessons—a fantastic way to stay
active!

Most sporting clubs have commenced their season, providing great opportunities for fitness, social connection, and community spirit.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre on McIlwraith Street can connect you with the right referral services—judgment-free.

Physical activity is a great stress reliever! Whether it’s joining a local sport, going for a walk, or enjoying a swim, movement benefits both body and mind.

Rest and self care are just as important as physical health. If you need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to local health services.

For newcomers needing help finding businesses or services, feel free to visit or call Council, our friendly staff are happy to assist.

Hinchinbrook is strong, and together we will rebuild, recover, and thrive.

Take care and stay well.

Cheapa Auto Spares have a new location at 104 Cartwright Street, offering customers a bigger store with an expanded range of products and improved service. The move allows the business to hold more stock and provide an even better shopping experience for the community.

The store prides itself on being a one-stop shop for all automotive needs, offering a variety of spare parts, tools, and accessories similar to those found at major retailers. With the expansion, customers can expect a greater selection and improved availability of stock.

Cheapa Auto Spares offers an extensive product range, including service parts, suspension components, cooling systems, brake and clutch parts, engine components, ignition parts, driveline components, performance accessories, car care products, electrical items, and tools. The company's knowledgeable staff, many with automotive trade backgrounds, are well-equipped to provide expert advice to customers, ensuring they find the right products for their vehicles.

The official move took place early last week, with the team already operating from the new location. Customers are encouraged to visit the new premises and take advantage of the expanded offerings, which promise greater accessibility and convenience for all automotive enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Cheapa Auto Spares owner Phil Thompson expressed his gratitude to the Ingham community for their support over the years, acknowledging that their loyalty and patronage have made the transition to a larger store possible.

"We want to thank the whole of the Ingham District for their support over the years,” he said.

He added that thanks to them, they were able to move to this new, bigger location and continue offering the best service and products possible.

With a commitment to quality products, expert service, and a customer-first approach, Cheapa Auto Spares is excited about this new chapter. The business looks forward to continuing to serve the community from its new and improved location, ensuring that all automotive needs are met efficiently and affordably.

For more information about available products and services, customers can visit the store.