Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
By Victoria Velton Seventy-five years of history and service were commemorated in Ingham last Saturday, as the 103 Squadron of the Australian Air Force Cadets celebrated its three-quarter-century anniversary with a special dinner at the Herbert River RSL, bringing together generations of cadets and supporters. The 75th Anniversary Dinner was a significant occasion for the squadron, welcoming current cadets and their families alongside former cadets, past members and special guests who travelled to Ingham to mark the occasion. Among the guests were visiting representatives from the Australian Army and Royal Australian Navy, adding to the significance of the celebration and highlighting the strong connections the Australian Air Force Cadets share with the wider Australian Defence Force. For the current generation of cadets, the evening provided an opportunity to meet people who have served in uniform and hear from those who have been part of the squadron and its history over the decades. Just as importantly, former cadets returned to support the young people who are now following in their footsteps. Instructors, volunteers, parents and supporters were all recognised. Event organiser Simone Lennox said the celebration was the culmination of several weeks of planning, organising, printing and chasing up the many details needed to bring such a significant event together. “There were plenty of late nights, last-minute changes and stressful moments, but we did it,” Simone said. For a youth organisation with such a long history in the community, the presence of ex-cadets was particularly meaningful, demonstrating the endurance of friendships, experiences and lessons gained through the program. The evening also featured displays and memorabilia reflecting the squadron’s history, helping to bring together stories from its past with the work being carried out by its current members. Special commemorative pieces were also created for the occasion, with current Cadet Unit Officer Saxon Crabb and former CUO/LAC Corey Crabb working together to create 75th Anniversary 3D-printed pieces giving guests a unique reminder of the milestone. Simone thanked Erin and Sandra for their work in helping organise the celebration, as well as the Herbert River Sub Branch RSL for hosting the event. Bec from Budget Colour Copies was also recognised for her help with the extensive printing, scanning and last-minute jobs required in the lead-up to the dinner. “Seeing everyone there, catching up, sharing stories and enjoying the night made all the work worthwhile,” Simone said. After 75 years, the anniversary was a celebration of the people who have been part of 103 Squadron, the memories created along the way and the young cadets who are now carrying that tradition into the future. Caption: Photo credits: Victoria Velton Generations of 103 Squadron members, ex-103 cadets and visiting officials and representatives gathered at the Herbert River RSL for the 75th celebration. The current Ingham 103 Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets. Current 103 Squadron leaders, ex-103 cadets, alongside visiting officials and representatives from the broader Australian Defence Force. The current members and leaders of the Ingham 103 Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets. All attendees enjoying their time at the 75th celebration. Extras to put online: Extra 1. The current Ingham 103 Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets and family table. Extra 2. The Ex-Ingham 103 Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets and family table. Extra 3. The visiting dignitaries and officials table.
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Ingham’s own Mick’s Bread Kitchen has cooked up a spectacular result on the national stage, taking home two gold medals at the 2026 Official Great Aussie Pie Competition. The bakery’s Smoked Brisket Pie and Pork Pie both claimed gold, with the brisket creation developed by Mick’s daughter, Monique Toichev. The bakery entered four pies in the prestigious competition, with its Ned Kelly Pie also taking silver and its Plain Pie earning bronze. The four-medal haul has given the local team plenty to celebrate, with Monique saying the recognition was the result of hard work and a commitment to perfecting every part of the pie.
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By Sian Bantock One of Mission Beach’s signature endurance events took place on Sunday 6th September as Cassowary Coast Multisport Club (CCMC)’s Ona Mission challenged competitors across three disciplines: paddling, running and cycling. The event drew competitors of all ages and abilities, each pushing themselves past their limits to complete the course. Participants tackled the event individually or in teams, beginning with a 4km paddle-over to the iconic Dunk Island, before a 6km trail run and 30km cycle, finishing with a 6km run along the region's tropical beaches. Calm seas made for great paddling conditions, though rising temperatures ensured the athletes were working hard under the tropical sun. CCMC Club President Richard Blanchette was overjoyed with the turnout. “Wow Mission Beach! Superb day for Ona Mission 2026 with participants paddling, riding and running along the beach,” he said.
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Locals are being encouraged to grab their rods and help tackle one of the region’s invasive pests when the annual Tilapia Tournament returns to Warrina Lakes during the October school holidays. Cassowary Coast Regional Council will host the free, family-friendly fishing competition from Thursday 1st October to Saturday 3rd October, combining a day out for the community with an important effort to protect local waterways and native aquatic life. The tournament challenges participants to catch and remove Tilapia, an invasive pest fish capable of rapidly establishing large populations and outcompeting native species. Tilapia feed on plants, insects and small native fish and can produce hundreds of young in a single season. Their nesting behaviour can also stir up mud and damage important habitat for native fish and other aquatic species. Fortunately for competitors, the pest fish are relatively easy to catch and will take a variety of bait, including corn, bread, worms and pellets. Cassowary Coast Mayor Teresa Millwood said every fish removed during the tournament would contribute to improving the health of the local ecosystem. “The Tilapia Tournament is a fantastic opportunity for locals and visitors to get involved in protecting our waterways while enjoying a free, family-friendly event during the school holidays,” Cr Millwood said. “Every Tilapia removed from Warrina Lakes helps reduce the pressure on our native species and improves the health of our local ecosystem. I encourage everyone to come along, register and be part of this important community effort.” The tournament is open to all ages, although children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. Participants are encouraged to bring their own fishing gear, hat, sunscreen, water bottle and camping chair, with prizes also up for grabs throughout the event. Entry is free, however registration is essential. Further information and registration details are available through the Cassowary Coast Regional Council website. CAPTION: The annual Tilapia Tournament will return to Warrina Lakes this October. Photo supplied by Cassowary Coast Regional Council
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At Tec-NQ, students build friendships and gain experience through working towards their trade skill. Photo supplied: Tec-NQ
For students from regional and remote Queensland, choosing a senior school pathway can often mean looking beyond what is available locally.
At Tec-NQ in Townsville, students in Years 10 to 12 can complete their senior schooling while building practical trade skills, gaining industry exposure and preparing for apprenticeships, employment, further training or future study.
For students like Brandon Pope, that pathway has opened the door to new opportunities.
Brandon moved from Mount Isa to Townsville to attend Tec-NQ and boards at Tec-NQ House while completing his senior studies. Now a Year 12 Automotive student, he has completed work experience in truck repairs and has already been offered work for after school.
“I found a job, signed up, and I’m good to go when I graduate,” he said.
Tec-NQ House plays an important role for families outside Townsville, providing access to Tec-NQ’s trade-focused senior school while students live in a supervised boarding environment.
Located in Rosslea, Tec-NQ House supports regional and remote students with routine, supervision, daily transport to the Douglas campus and support as they build independence away from home.
For parents and carers, this means students can access a specialised senior school pathway without losing the structure and care they need during their final years of school.
Tec-NQ is an accredited senior school and Registered Training Organisation. Its model brings senior schooling, practical trade training, work placement and industry connection together, giving students a hands-on way to learn and a clearer view of where their education can lead.
At the Douglas campus, academic subjects are connected to industry, workshops form part of the everyday learning environment, and students have opportunities to build confidence in practical settings.
Students work toward their Queensland Certificate of Education, learn from registered teachers and trade-qualified facilitators, and are supported by student wellbeing, boarding and industry teams.
For Charlie Cobb, a Year 12 Automotive student from Chillagoe, the Tec-NQ pathway has also helped create a practical start in industry. After boarding for much of his schooling, Charlie has built experience through casual work and signed into an apprenticeship.
“If you’re thinking of doing a trade, this is your best start,” he said.
Stories like Brandon’s and Charlie’s show how Tec-NQ can support students who are ready for a senior school environment with a stronger connection to work, industry and future direction.
Families interested in learning more will have the opportunity to see Tec-NQ in action at Campus Open Day on Saturday 22nd August.
The event will give prospective students, parents and community members the chance to tour the workshops, meet staff, speak with industry partners and learn more about Senior School, Tec-NQ House, work placement and Full Time Training pathways.
For regional families considering boarding and senior school options for 2027, Open Day is a chance to understand how Tec-NQ connects the steps from school to work.
Families who are unable to attend in person can also speak with Tec-NQ’s enrolments team to learn more about senior school options, boarding, entry points and the pathway from learning to work.
For students ready to learn differently and build a future beyond the classroom, Tec-NQ offers a practical, supported pathway with real direction.
Make sure bins are facing the correct way and are well spaced apart for collection. Photo sourced: Hinchinbrook Shire Council
Hinchinbrook Shire Council is reminding residents to ensure their bins are correctly presented for collection, warning that bins may not be serviced if they cannot be collected safely.
To avoid missed collections, residents are encouraged to place their bins out the night before, or before 5.30am on collection day. Bins should be positioned on flat ground near the kerb with the handles facing the property and at least one metre clear of parked vehicles, trees, power poles, signs and other obstacles. Where multiple bins are presented, they should be spaced at least half a metre apart.
Council also advises that bins should not be overloaded or contain items protruding from the top, as the lid must be able to close completely. Hoses, ropes, cords and leads should be cut into lengths of less than one metre before being placed in the bin to prevent them from becoming tangled in collection machinery.
Residents are also reminded to ensure only accepted recyclable materials are placed in recycling bins to help prevent contamination and improve recycling outcomes.
Council said following these simple steps helps collection crews work safely and efficiently while reducing the likelihood of bins being missed on collection day.
For more information about waste and recycling services, visit Council's website www.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au/water-waste-and-roads/waste-and-recycling or contact Hinchinbrook Shire Council customer service centre on (07) 4776 4600.
Today, I would like to remind you of the importance of completing the Census forms for you and your family.
The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) will conduct the national Census of Population 2026 on Tuesday, 11 August 2026.
Distribution of the Census forms within Hinchinbrook has already commenced.
As you may be aware, the Census is the primary source of population data used by the Federal Government to determine the allocation of Financial Assistance Grants to the Australian states and territories. Each state's share of the Australian Government funding pool is calculated on population, making the accuracy of ABS population data critically important to ensuring Queensland (and hence the local governments within Queensland) receives its fair share of this funding.
Local government grants commissions in each state and the Northern Territory recommend the distribution of funding under the Financial Assistance Grant Program to local councils in accordance with the Act and the National Principles for Allocating Grants. The Financial Assistance Grants provide funding for schools, hospitals, roads, and public transport, and also cater for local needs such as supporting community groups and local programs.
The Financial Assistance Grant Program consists of two components:
Both components of the grant are untied in the hands of local government, allowing councils to spend the grants according to local priorities.
First and foremost, completing your Census return is a legal obligation, but it is also important because it ensures that, as a community, we access the appropriate financial resources from the Federal Government to fund local services.
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AI, or Artificial Intelligence, particularly in the workplace, is becoming an increasingly used form of technology to improve efficiencies in day-to-day tasks. Whilst AI can be a wonderful addition to assist employers and employees, it should remain just that; it is a tool to assist, not to replace human interaction and oversight.
Hinchinbrook Shire Council has been one of the first councils to implement the use of AI, recently integrating a chatbot named “Herbie” on our website to help residents and interested website users navigate and find answers to most Council-related questions, such as, “What day of the week is bin collection in Trebonne?”, or more complex questions such as, “What are the building requirements to install a swimming pool?”
Soon, Herbie may be integrated into the call centre to assist and direct callers to the correct department or provide answers to Council-related questions.
Users will, and do, have the option to request to speak with staff should they not wish to interact with Herbie, which is a great and practical use of AI in the workplace.
As this technology evolves, we must remain abreast of its potential overuse or misuse, not only in the workplace but in our everyday lives. I am no technology expert, but truth be known, AI is already being used by most of us, often unknowingly, simply by searching on our phones or the internet. It is the security of the data that AI records, and its potential misuse by those collecting it, that we must remain fully aware of.
On another note, the upcoming Census to be held in August will hopefully reveal some fresh new data for the Hinchinbrook Shire, including, hopefully, confirmation of an increase in our population numbers.
This data, once released, will be most helpful and will assist our Shire in lobbying State and Federal Governments, as well as developers and investors, to attract and invest in our growing Shire.
Until next time, Hinchinbrook residents, stay safe and be kind.
Wayde Chiesa MP and Steve Whipps Commander of the QF-14 Lucinda Coast Guard. Photo credit: Wayde Chiesa MP’s offices
Wayde Chiesa MP, Member for Hinchinbrook
Last week marked Rural Fire Service Queensland Week, a time to recognise the incredible contributions our Rural Fire Service volunteers make right here in Hinchinbrook and across Queensland. As someone who sees their commitment firsthand, I want to start this column acknowledging these men and women whose selflessness keeps our communities safe.
Our rural fire brigades are made up of people who step forward to serve their neighbours, often balancing their volunteering with work, family and everything else life brings. To all our Rural Fire Service volunteers across Hinchinbrook, thank you for the time, commitment and service you give to our communities. Your contribution is valued not just during Rural Fire Brigade Week, but all year round.
I have also recently been to Brisbane for Parliament's Estimates hearings. Estimates are an important part of my role as your local Member, providing an opportunity to ask questions about the delivery of the Budget and ensure the priorities of regional communities like ours remain front and centre. I had the opportunity to question the Premier on the proposed changes to Commonwealth disaster recovery funding, along with issues including crime, housing, cost of living, healthcare and Port Hinchinbrook. I also questioned the Treasurer and Ministers about delivering better healthcare, helping more Queenslanders into their first home and supporting our critical minerals industry. I'll continue working to ensure the issues that matter to Hinchinbrook are heard now that we have seat at the government.
Last week also marks 12 months of Jack’s Law. Across the Townsville District, police have scanned 14,141 people and seized 166 weapons, helping keep dangerous weapons off our streets and making our communities safer.
Back home, it was great to get along to the Tully Show and catch up with locals while enjoying everything the show had to offer. Our regional shows are an important part of the calendar, bringing together agriculture, local businesses, families and community organisations, and it is always fantastic to see the community get behind them.
Local tourism operators and businesses are encouraged to explore the Queensland Government's Regional Tourism Infrastructure Fund (RTIF), which provides grants for projects that enhance visitor experiences, attract more tourists, support local jobs and boost regional economies. Round two has just opened.
Whether I’m in Parliament or out and about across our electorate, the best part of this role is hearing from locals like you. If there’s anything you’d like to share or bring to my attention, please don’t hesitate to get in touch at hinchinbrook@parliament.qld.gov.au
By Mary Brown, President of the Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Tourism
The cooler months not only signal the commencement of the sugar cane harvest season and all the business activity it brings, they also mark peak of tourism and events season in the Hinchinbrook Shire.
The Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Tourism continues to receive feedback from local businesses, with many reporting and increase in visitor numbers throughout the region. The past weeks have been particularly encouraging, as the Shire experienced the economic benefits generated by the highly successful International Legends of League event.
The event attracted strong crowds from both locals and visitors, creating a vibrant atmosphere across the district and delivering a welcome boost to accommodation providers, cafes, restaurants, pubs, retailers and other local businesses.
The Chamber’s monthly “Markets at the Mosaic” also recorded strong attendance Visitor data collected during the July event that showed that more than 60 per cent of attendees travelled from outside the Hinchinbrook district, reinforcing the growing reputation of the markets as a drawcard for visitors.
Adding to the strong weekend activities was an increase in caravans and motorhomes utilising local caravan and RV parks throughout July. This steady growth in drive tourism reflets the region’s appeal to travellers seeking authentic regional experiences while exploring North Queensland.
The combined impact of these activities provides a significant boost to the local economy, with increased spending flowing through hospitality, fuel outlets, supermarkets, specialty retailers and other service providers. These flow-on benefits demonstrate the important roles tourism and community events play in supporting local businesses and strengthening the regional economy.
The Chamber acknowledges and sincerely thanks the many events organisers, volunteers, stallholders, sponsors and local businesses whose dedication make weekends such as these, a success that flows throughout the community. Their commitment to delivering high-quality events continues to enhance Hinchinbrook’s reputation as one of North Queensland's premier regional destinations.
With a growing calendar of events, increasing visitor interest and continued collaboration across the community, the future is looking bright for the Hinchinbrook visitor economy. Every successful event creates opportunities for visitors to stay longer, spend locally and discover more of what our region has to offer, delivering lasting benefits for businesses and the wider community alike.
Introducing Indigo & Ignatius, what a ruff start to life this beautiful pair had. Indigo and Ignatius were found as tiny kittens outside a supermarket, but thanks to the love and care they’ve received, they’re now ready to leave their past behind and find the forever home they deserve. After everything they've been through together, we simply don't have the heart to separate them. These best friends are looking for a forever home together, full of love, many pats and chin scratches.
Included in adoption fee of $300 for both DESEXED, MICRO-CHIPPED, up to date VACCINATIONS, FLEA/TICK/INTESTINAL WORM treated. Check out their profile on angelpaws.com.au!
Sex: Female & Male
Breed: Domestic Short Hair
Colour: Orange & Blue Tortoiseshell
DOB: 07/01/2026
Cat Friendly: Yes
Dog Friendly: Unsure
Kid Friendly: Unsure
‘The nbn session will provide information for homes and businesses now eligible to upgrade to nbn Fibre to the Premises’. Photo sourced: Shutterstock
Residents wanting to learn more about upgrading their internet connection will have the opportunity to speak directly with industry experts when nbn hosts a Community Drop-In Session in Ingham next week.
The session will provide information for homes and businesses now eligible to upgrade to nbn Fibre to the Premises (FTTP), allowing access to faster and more reliable broadband services. Representatives from nbn will be available throughout the day to explain the benefits of full fibre connections, including improved video calling, faster downloads, enhanced streaming and better performance across multiple connected devices.
Nbn will be joined by Telstra at the event, with both organisations available to answer questions and provide information relevant to their services.
The free session is open to all residents and businesses, with locals encouraged to drop in at any time throughout the day to learn more about the latest connectivity options available in the region.
WHAT: NBN and Telstra Community Drop-In Session
WHEN: Wednesday, August 5th, 9.30am to 3.30pm
WHERE: Woolworths Car Park, Ingham
Sponsored by the Lions Club of Tully, assistance dog Tully has completed her training with Lions Assistance Dogs and will soon begin supporting her future owner. Photo supplied
The Lions Club of Tully is making a lasting difference beyond the Cassowary Coast through its sponsorship of an assistance dog that is now preparing to transform the life of someone living with mental health challenges.
Labradoodle Tully, named in honour of the local community, has recently completed her training with Lions Assistance Dogs and is expected to be matched with her recipient this month after more than a year of dedicated preparation.
Sponsored by the Lions Club of Tully, Tully has been trained as a Psychiatric Assistance Dog, learning a range of specialised tasks designed to support someone living with a psychosocial disability. Among her skills are recognising signs of anxiety, responding with calming behaviours, seeking help from others when required and assisting her future owner in everyday life.
Trainer James said Tully had made remarkable progress throughout her training.
"Tully has been working incredibly hard, and we've been focusing on balancing her task work with plenty of settling sessions in between," he said.
"She's picked up new tasks almost immediately and absolutely loves working with people. It's been wonderful to watch her grow, and I know she's ready to change her recipient's life in the best way possible."
Client Services Coordinator Marcello thanked the Lions Club of Tully for its ongoing support throughout Tully's journey.
"We truly couldn't do this without you, and I know Tully would thank you too if she could," he said.
Lions Club of Tully regularly fundraises for organisations like the Childhood Cancer Research Foundation. Photo supplied
Over the course of more than five decades, the Lions Club of Tully has quietly helped shape the local community, with its members dedicating countless volunteer hours to projects that have left a lasting mark across the Cassowary Coast.
Chartered in May 1971, the club first met at the Railway Refreshment Rooms before later calling the Isaac Henry Restaurant, Hotel Tully and, more recently, the Mount Tyson Hotel and Mirrors Restaurant home. While meeting venues have changed over the decades, the club's commitment to serving the community has remained constant.
In its 55-year history, Lions Club of Tully members have rolled up their sleeves to deliver countless projects across the region. From constructing parks, shelters and community facilities to supporting hospitals, schools and local organisations, the club's legacy is one of service, generosity and community spirit.
Among its many achievements are the construction of Lions Pioneer Park and facilities at Hull Heads, the establishment of the Warrami Station Rodeo, support for Tully Hospital through equipment and infrastructure upgrades, and years of community fundraising, catering and environmental projects.
Lions Club of Tully has also played a vital role in supporting the region during times of hardship, helping families recover after Cyclones Larry and Yasi by assisting with clean-up efforts, sourcing caravans for displaced residents and distributing vouchers for essential household items and generator fuel.
"Our local community is our first and foremost to support in any which ways we can," Lions Club of Tully Secretary Irene Braddick said.
"Lions Club of Tully is about making great friends with like-minded people who want to serve their community, and communities, like ours, are very lucky to have lots of service groups in the area all working for the same cause."
With a group of passionate volunteers spearheading efforts across the region, the club continues to support the community through initiatives including the Lions Children's Vision Screening Program, Youth of the Year, community catering, Christmas fundraising events and local projects. In the past, the club has also supported assistance dogs, childhood cancer research and youth exchange programs, continuing its long tradition of service to the region.
"We are always looking for new members to join our happy little club," Ms Braddick said.
Ms Braddick warmly invites anyone interested in giving back to the community to attend a Lions Club of Tully meeting and learn more about the organisation's work. Meetings are held on the second and fourth Monday of each month from 6:30pm at the Mount Tyson Hotel. For more information, email tullylions@gmail.com or call 0422 013 387.
Map of the reporting zones. Image sourced: wettropicswaterways.org.au
Ongoing efforts by landholders, community groups and industry are continuing to make a positive difference to waterway health across the Wet Tropics, with the latest report card showing conditions remain steady despite increasing climate pressures.
The Wet Tropics Waterway Health Report Card found waterways across the region continue to achieve "good" to "moderate" health, reflecting years of work to improve land management, restore riparian vegetation and reduce sediment and nutrient runoff.
Wet Tropics Waterways Chair Dr Simon Costanzo said the results highlighted the value of collective action across the region.
"Across the region, people are taking action — improving farming practices, restoring riparian vegetation and participating in clean-up and rehabilitation projects — and together it's making a difference."
Queensland Environment and Tourism Minister Andrew Powell said the findings reinforced the importance of ongoing partnerships between communities, industry and government.
"Nobody loves the Reef more than Queenslanders, and these results are encouraging because they show the positive impact of practical, on-ground action to improve and protect water quality," Minister Powell said.
"The findings reinforce why the Crisafulli Government is investing a record $330.5 million to improve Great Barrier Reef water quality and support action across Reef catchments, because healthy waterways are essential to a healthy Reef and to protecting these natural assets for future generations."
The report card is released annually by Wet Tropics Waterways and draws on independent scientific monitoring from multiple organisations to assess the long-term health of rivers, estuaries and coastal waters.
The latest findings demonstrate that while climate pressures continue to pose challenges, ongoing community action is helping protect the waterways that are vital to both local communities and the Great Barrier Reef.
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)
Motorists encouraged to stay vigilant as escaped cow sightings increase. Photo source: Shutterstock
Motorists across the Cassowary Coast are being urged to remain vigilant following a rise in reports of cattle wandering onto local roads, creating a serious safety risk for drivers.
Residents have taken to social media in recent weeks to warn others after several cattle were spotted on busy roads throughout the region. One post last week reported a white cow standing in the middle of Lower Tully Road at night, with several motorists confirming they had encountered the animal as late as 10:30pm. Drivers described the experience as frightening, particularly given the limited visibility at night, while others said they had narrowly avoided collisions with cattle on multiple occasions when rounding corners on local roads.
Additional sightings have also been reported along Tully Heads Road, Tully Hull Road and sections of the Bruce Highway, prompting renewed calls for motorists to exercise extra caution, especially when travelling after dark. Some residents noted that livestock on roads is a common occurrence in rural areas, including around Georgetown and Croydon, highlighting the need for drivers to remain alert whenever travelling through farming districts.
The Queensland Government reminds motorists to slow down in areas where livestock or wildlife may be present, obey warning signs and scan the road ahead for potential hazards. If an animal is on the roadway, drivers should carefully assess the situation and take the safest possible action to avoid placing themselves or other road users at risk.
Anyone who strikes an animal or comes across an injured or distressed animal is encouraged to contact the RSPCA on 1300 ANIMAL (1300 264 625). Motorists can find more information about safely sharing the road with wildlife and livestock on the Queensland Government's transport website www.qld.gov.au/transport/saftey/rules.
Tully Support Centre Inc has received $9,840 through the Queensland Government's Empowering Queensland Women grants program. Photo source: Tully Support Centre Inc
Women across the Cassowary Coast are set to benefit from two locally delivered initiatives following the latest round of the Queensland Government's Empowering Queensland Women grants program.
Cardwell UFO Festival Inc and Tully Support Centre Inc are among 30 community organisations to receive funding through Round 2 of the program, which has distributed almost $280,000 statewide to support women's economic security, financial confidence and employment opportunities.
Cardwell UFO Festival Inc has been awarded $10,000 to deliver its From Culture to Commerce: Indigenous Women's Tourism Product Development Program.
The initiative will support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women and girls in the Cardwell region to develop tourism-ready products and build creative enterprise skills that can generate income. Participants will explore topics including cultural art creation, storytelling for commercial products, tourism trends, photographing and digitising artwork, designing gift lines, pricing and packaging products, and social media and online selling.
Meanwhile, Tully Support Centre Inc has secured $9,840 for its Independence and Empowerment Workshops, which will be delivered across Tully, Cardwell, Mission Beach and Kurrimine Beach.
The workshops are designed to support women and girls who have experienced domestic and family violence and/or sexual violence, covering topics including financial health, planning and empowerment, threats and fraud, and personal growth and safety. The program aims to provide participants with the knowledge, skills and confidence to overcome isolation, exploitation and the impacts of domestic and family violence.
Minister for Women and Women's Economic Security Fiona Simpson said the Empowering Queensland Women grants support community-led programs that help women build financial capability, develop new skills and connect with employment opportunities.
“The Round 2 recipients will deliver projects which support a wide range of women. We recognise that women face differing challenges depending on where they live or their personal circumstances or their cultural background – but these supported initiatives aim to help them overcome barriers to economic participation,” Minister Simpson said.
The Government has invested almost $280,000 through Round 2 of the program, with grants of up to $10,000 awarded to community organisations across Queensland. For the Cassowary Coast, the funding will provide practical support for women through opportunities to develop businesses, strengthen financial literacy and build confidence, ensuring more women are equipped to participate fully in their communities and local economies.
Cassowary Coast Regional Council is calling on community groups and eligible residents to apply for funding through two grant programs designed to support local projects, events and infrastructure improvements.
Applications are now open for the Community Grants and Support Program and the Community Infrastructure Grants Program, with submissions closing on Friday, 28th August.
Together, the programs aim to help deliver projects that create lasting social, cultural, environmental and economic benefits across the Cassowary Coast.
The Community Grants and Support Program has $120,000 available during the 2026–27 financial year, split across two funding rounds. Grants of up to $2,000 are available for minor community projects without the need for a co-contribution, while major projects can receive between $2,001 and $7,500, with a 10 per cent in-kind or financial contribution required.
Council is also offering $225,000 through the Community Infrastructure Grants Program, which supports the development, renewal and enhancement of community facilities that provide a public benefit. Minor infrastructure projects can receive up to $5,000, while major projects are eligible for between $5,001 and $30,000, subject to co-contribution requirements.
Funded projects are expected to align with Council's 2025–2030 Integrated Corporate and Operational Plan by strengthening community resilience, supporting infrastructure, encouraging social inclusion, promoting health and wellbeing, and protecting the natural environment.
Mayor Teresa Millwood encouraged eligible organisations and community members to take advantage of the opportunity.
"These grants help bring local ideas to life, whether that’s through community events, wellbeing initiatives, environmental projects, infrastructure improvements or programs that build stronger social connections," Mayor Millwood said.
"By investing in projects that strengthen resilience, encourage inclusion and support community wellbeing, we are helping to build a stronger future for the Cassowary Coast."
Applications must be submitted through Council's SmartyGrants portal and will be assessed before recommendations are presented at the September 2026 Local Government Meeting.
Preparations are well underway for this August’s Cassowary Coast Business Bazaar. Photo source: Cassowary Coast Business Women's Network Inc.
The Mission Beach Village Green will come alive on Thursday 20th August, as the Cassowary Coast Business Women's Network Inc. hosts its inaugural Business Bazaar; a festival-style evening designed to celebrate the region's vibrant business community.
Set to run from 4:30pm to 9pm, the free event will transform the Village Green into a bustling marketplace where residents and visitors can shop, dine, network and discover the incredible range of products and services available across the Cassowary Coast.
Alongside the Village Green's permanent traders, businesses from across the region will set up pop-up stalls, demonstrations and displays, giving attendees the chance to meet the faces behind local enterprises and learn more about what they offer.
Live music from Alisa Q will create a relaxed atmosphere while local restaurants, cafés and shops remain open for late-night trading, encouraging guests to make an evening of it by browsing, enjoying dinner and supporting local businesses.
The event will feature everything from health and wellbeing providers, travel specialists and real estate professionals to artists, retailers, celebrants, tradespeople and technology experts. Visitors can enjoy mini massages, fitness demonstrations, exclusive event specials, giveaways, raffles and opportunities to chat directly with business owners. Businesses already confirmed include Mission Beach Dive, Plenty Restaurant, Shanti Café, Helen Wiltshire Gallery, Remedy Natural Health, Tropical Property, Red Sky Travel, COSCA Innisfail, In Balance Health, Mind and Body Reformed, Ozzie Oilers, nbn, HDevolution and many more. Pop-up stallholders are also encouraged to participate, with spaces available for $50.
Businesses wishing to book a pop-up stall or anyone seeking more information can email bookings@ccbwn.org.au or visit trybooking.com/DNAUQ.
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