I have been approached by a growing number of residents who are finding it increasingly difficult to obtain affordable insurance, with some unable to secure cover at all. Many are telling me that premiums have become unaffordable, while others have been refused cover because their property is located in a known flood area or has a history of flood claims.

‍

Over recent years, we have seen significant increases in home, contents and business insurance premiums, largely driven by the cost of flood cover. As a result, three concerning trends are emerging across our community.

‍

Firstly, some property owners are choosing not to insure at all. This leaves them exposed not only to flood impacts, but also to other risks such as cyclone, storm and fire.

‍

Secondly, some owners are reducing the value of assets they insure in an effort to lower premiums. While understandable, this can leave families and businesses underinsured and unable to fully recover following a major event.

‍

Thirdly, there is a growing perception among some people that insurance will cover any loss, reducing the incentive to take practical steps to protect furniture, equipment and other assets from floodwaters. Ultimately, these losses contribute to increased claims and higher premiums for everyone.

For most families, their home is the single largest investment they will ever make. Without adequate insurance, recovering from a cyclone, storm, fire or other disaster can be extremely difficult.

‍

The affordability and availability of insurance is a serious issue for communities like ours, and Council has been raising these concerns with both State and Federal Governments for several years. In my view, there is clear market failure in some areas, and governments need to work with industry to find practical solutions that improve access to affordable cover while strengthening community resilience.

‍

One option worthy of consideration is allowing property owners to choose whether flood insurance is included in their policy. Giving people the ability to opt in or opt out of flood cover could help reduce premiums while maintaining protection against other risks such as cyclone, storm and fire.

‍

Equally important is greater transparency from insurers around how premiums are calculated and how risk is assessed for individual hazards. Property owners should also receive clearer recognition for mitigation measures and resilience investments, such as building above recognised flood levels or undertaking flood-proofing works.

To help build a stronger case for change, Council will release a community survey seeking feedback from residents and businesses about their experiences with insurance affordability and accessibility.

‍

I strongly encourage everyone to take a few minutes to complete the survey by visiting www.surveymonkey.com/r/FNBY7SF or scanning the QR code before it closes at 5.00pm on Tuesday 6th October 2026.

‍

‍

The more information we can provide to decision-makers, the stronger our advocacy will be.

‍

We need real local data to demonstrate the impact rising insurance costs are having on our community and to push for meaningful reform.

‍

‍

‍

At the August General meeting council was tabled with a revised package to deliver the Queensland Government's Works for Queensland (W4Q) package for the 2024-20274 period. Among the challenges faced during this period, acknowledging the 2025 flood event, the most significant being a substantial increase in the projected costs to deliver each project. As such, the project list was subsequently reassessed to maximise the delivery of priority works within the available funding and program eligibility guidelines and timeframe.

‍

The 2024-2027 Queensland Government's W4Q program prioritises investment in projects that enhance essential Council services, contribute to community and regional economic development, and supports the long-term sustainability of Queensland councils. Council over the period of the last few months has reviewed the currently approved W4Q projects.  

‍

The review has resulted in the need to apply for a change to a number of projects. These changes have resulted for a variety of reasons, some of which are mentioned above.

‍

Acknowledging the hard work put in by the whole Hinchinbrook Shire Council team in reviewing the projects, Council endorsed the updated list of projects for the Queensland Government's 2024-2027 W4Q Funding totalling $3,230,000 as follows:

‍

• Taylors Beach Seawalk (Stage 1 Design Only) $61,772.83;

• Taylors Beach Playground Shade Covering and Site Improvements $65,000;

• Extension of Reticulated Sewerage Toobanna Township (Design) $375,500;

• Extension of Reticulated Sewerage along Sir Arthur Fadden Parade (Design) $170,000;

• Revamp Borello Park Lucinda (concept design) $38,727.17;

• Riverview Park enhancement $20,000;

• Half Basketball Court, Merv Wacker Park $141,350.69;

• Pump Track, Merv Wacker Park $606,587.34;

• Ingham Showground car park $211,193.36;

• Merv Wacker Park Improved Car parking $181,193.36;

• Vince Corbett Park Infrastructure Upgrade Forrest Beach $1,255,494.21; and

• Half Basketball Court Leo Park Trebonne $103,181.04.

‍

This revised package is proudly funded by the Queensland Government in association with the Hinchinbrook Shire Council.

We look forward to seeing these projects begin and eagerly await their completion.

‍

In the meantime Hinchinbrook residents, take care, stay safe and be kind.

‍

Local resident Coen Luxford indicating to the dirt spot on the far bank where the crocodile would often bask. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

‍

By Victoria Velton

‍

A juvenile crocodile was removed from the waterway near Ingham State High School on the afternoon of the 1st September. Reportedly, it had become a too familiar sight to locals and visitors using the area, with signs warning of its presence.

The crocodile, estimated to be around one to one-and-a-half metres long, was captured by the Department of Wildlife during an operation witnessed by local resident Coen Luxford.

‍

Coen regularly walks through the area and happened to be nearby when he noticed Department of Wildlife vehicles arriving.

“I saw some Department of Wildlife utes come down the side. I thought, oh - let's go check that out and see what’s going on,” Coen said.

‍

He soon spotted the crocodile trap sitting in the water, with the operation already underway.

‍

“It was a very interesting exercise watching them trying to get him out,” he said.

The removal has provided some reassurance for people who use the pathway, particularly those concerned about children or dogs being close to the water's edge.

‍

‍

“There’s no guardrails or such between the pathway and the water, and I can understand some people’s concerns if they were worried about the crocs sitting on the water bank near the path and snatching up Fido,” Coen said.

‍

However, Coen said the arrival of crocodiles in the waterway is nothing particularly unusual, with the animals often moving into the area following floods.

“Crocs move into the pond every year after every flood. They always come in, and the Department of Wildlife always does a good job catching them,” he said.

‍

Coen estimated that two or three crocodiles have been removed from the waterway over the past five years.

With the water currently low and visibility reduced, Coen said people should continue to take care around the waterway, regardless of whether a crocodile is currently known to be present.

‍

“There’s always signs on the pond warning people of possible crocodiles, so it’s always good just to be wary, because you never know what’s under there,” he said.

The young crocodile had also become something of a local celebrity, with people regularly stopping to see if they could spot it from the pathway.

‍

Its preferred position along the bank made it particularly easy to see, according to Coen.

‍

‍

“He was really visible, a great tourist attraction,” he said.

‍

While the removal has brought relief to some locals and upset to others who enjoyed the young croc's presence, Coen expects the waterway will once again attract a crocodile following the next significant rainfall.

‍

"If you wanted to have a look at a croc in its natural habitat, this would probably be one of the safest places you could do it," he remarked, as long as people are respectful to the animal and maintain a safe distance.

‍

With summer rains approaching, residents may not have to wait long before another reptilian resident makes an appearance.

‍

Always be CrocWise, keep your distance, never approach or disturb a crocodile, and keep children and pets well away from the water’s edge. Remember: if you are near a crocodile habitat, always assume a crocodile could be nearby and heed warning signs.

‍

The Hinchinbrook Visitor Information Centre has been recognised as a finalist in the 2026 North Queensland Tourism & Events Awards, due to the role it plays in helping visitors discover everything the Hinchinbrook region has to offer.

‍

Now, the centre is asking locals and visitors to show their support by casting a vote.

‍

For the team, the nomination is an opportunity to celebrate the service they provide to visitors and the local tourism industry. Whether the team has helped you plan a holiday, suggested somewhere new to explore, or simply helped make yourstay a little easier, every vote counts.

‍

The People’s Choice Award also offers a little something for those who take part, with voters going into the draw to win a $500 holiday voucher.

‍

Voting is now open. Visit awards.townsvilleenterprise.com.au to cast yours.

‍

Competitors before taking part in the Vaku Tua Motu  Photo Credit: Sian Bantock

‍

By Sian Bantock

‍

South Mission Beach came alive on Saturday 5th September as paddlers congregated for annual Jet Zero Vaku Tua Motu Outrigger Event.  

Around 30 competitors travelled from across Queensland to take on 14KM and 24KM courses set against the backdrop of Dunk Island and the World Heritage listed Wet Tropics rainforest.

‍

Mission Beach Outriggers Club President Harry was impressed with the community’s support for the event.  

‍

‍

“It’s important that any water event is displayed as well as it can be and supported by the community because we need people out in the water,” Harry said.  

‍

“It’s a safe place out there if you respect your surroundings and do the right thing. With the islands in front of us, it’s so beautiful.”

‍

‍

The flat and calm waters provided the perfect conditions for the event as paddlers powered to Timana Island before navigating toward Bedarra to the right. 24KM competitors continued to Dunk Island, rounding its eastern-southern point before sweeping past Purtaboi and returning to South Mission as the finishing line.  

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

Matilda Fudge, Mia Stiller, Charlize Gee from the Junior girls team Photo Credit Tom Orr

‍

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.  

‍

“There was a great mix of locals and visitors who took part making good numbers on the day. A big thanks to local volunteers, the sailing and Outrigger Clubs as well as sponsors – Wobble-In Bicycle in Innisfail donated a $5999 Mountain Bike Prize to the winner!”  

‍

Murray Macpherson won the long course event for the 3^rd year in a row.  

‍

The CCMC is already looking ahead to 2027 - the 20th anniversary of Ona Mission. To secure your place head over to ccmclub.org.au  

‍

‍

‍

‍

New operating hours are being trialled at the Murray Upper Waste Transfer Station as Council reviews the long-term sustainability of waste services across the region. Photo supplied: Cassowary Coast Regional Council  

‍

Cassowary Coast Regional Council will trial reduced operating hours at the Murray Upper Waste Transfer Station as part of a broader review of waste services across the region.

The station’s last day of regular trading was Saturday 29th August, with the new trial arrangement to begin on Sunday 20th September. Under the temporary schedule, the Murray Upper facility will open every third Sunday of the month from 1pm to 4pm.

‍

The trial forms part of Council’s Resource Recovery and Waste Strategy 2026–2030 and aims to determine how waste services can remain sustainable while continuing to meet community needs.

‍

Council said increasing costs associated with maintaining current service levels, including rising fuel prices, were among the factors prompting the review. Throughout the trial, Council will monitor usage of the Murray Upper facility, operational costs, access to alternative waste services and any changes in demand.

‍

Mayor Teresa Millwood said no final decision had been made on the facility’s long-term operation.

‍

“Council is trialling these changes before making any final decisions on the viability and sustainability of waste services within the region, whilst continuing to meet the needs of the community,” Mayor Millwood said.

‍

Residents will continue to have access to the region’s other waste transfer stations during the trial. The closest alternatives are Cardwell, which opens every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday from 9am to 1pm, and Tully, which operatesseven days a week with varying opening hours.

Free waste vouchers will continue to be accepted at all Cassowary Coast waste transfer stations, including Murray Upper.

‍

The findings from the trial will be used to help Council determine the future operation of the Murray Upper facility.

Cassowary Coast landholders are invited to pull up a chair and talk all things biosecurity as a new community information series gets underway this September.

‍

Cassowary Coast Regional Council’s From Pub to Paddock series will bring practical advice about feral pigs, invasive weeds and other pests directly to local communities, beginning at Hotel Euramo on Wednesday 23rd September at 5:30pm.

‍

The informal session will feature Wild Pigs Program Coordinator and local cane farmer Arthur Santagelo, alongside Senior Biosecurity Officer Rowan Ward.

‍

Landholders will have the opportunity to learn about local feral pig management, collaborative efforts underway across the region and practical approaches to managing pests and weeds on their properties.

‍

Cassowary Coast Mayor Teresa Millwood said cooperation was an important part of addressing local biosecurity challenges.

‍

“Feral pigs and invasive weeds don't stop at property boundaries, which is why sharing information and working together is so important,” Mayor Millwood said.

‍

“These sessions are about making it easier for our farmers and landholders to talk directly with people working in biosecurity, ask questions and get practical information they can take back to their properties.”

‍

A second session will be held at Mena Creek Hotel on Wednesday 28th October.

‍

Those attending the Euramo event can book a table by calling Hotel Euramo on 4066 7700.

‍

What: From Pub to Paddock

When: 5:30pm, Wednesday 23rd September

Where: Hotel Euramo

‍

Tully banana grower and Australian Banana Growers' Council director Leon Collins says Panama disease TR4 is an extremely difficult disease to manage, with 11 farms now affected in the Tully Valley. Photo source: Shutterstock

‍

A devastating fungal disease is continuing to spread through the Tully Valley, with 11 banana farms now affected by Panama disease tropical race 4 (TR4).  

For local growers, the detections are particularly concerning, with the Cassowary Coast, including Tully and Innisfail, forming the heart of Australia's banana-growing industry, while Queensland accounts for about 94 per cent of national production.  

‍

Australian Banana Growers' Council director and local banana grower Leon Collins said TR4 attacks the plant's vascular system, eventually causing it to wilt and die.

‍

“It’s a fungus that attacks the tree. It starves the tree of its nutrients and water, and the tree will wilt and die,” Mr Collins said.

“It’s a very hard disease to manage. It’s very variable, and it can turn up anywhere in your property at any time. It is a truly terrible disease to have.”

‍

First detected in the Tully Valley in 2015, TR4 cannot currently be eradicated once it becomes established. The fungus can survive in contaminated soil for more than 50 years and can be moved through infected plant material, soil and water.  

‍

Mr Collins said the Tully Valley had borne the brunt of local detections.

“Tully Valley has been where the detections have been and every farm on the Tully River is now affected,” he said.

‍

Despite the growing challenge, Mr Collins said the geographical spread of North Queensland's banana industry offered some protection.

“We are diverse and spread out and this will help us get through the problems we have with TR4,” he said.

‍

Attention is also firmly on finding banana varieties capable of surviving the disease.

‍

QUT researchers have spent decades investigating TR4 resistance, including developing QCAV-4, a genetically modified Cavendish banana that has demonstrated high resistance to the disease in field trials and has been approved for commercial planting and consumption in Australia. Researchers are also investigating gene-edited, non-GM bananas and improvements to the naturally TR4-resistant Goldfinger variety.  

But for growers already dealing with the disease, Mr Collins said a practical solution cannot come quickly enough.

‍

“It’s not soon enough for most growers, especially those in the valley,” he said.

‍

“Everyone’s hell for leather trying to find a resistant variety around the world now, and at the moment, no one’s got one.”

‍

For an industry so heavily concentrated in Far North Queensland, the race to find a long-term answer has implications well beyond the Tully Valley.

AutoPot systems automatically deliver water and nutrients. Photo credit: As Green As Garden Centre

‍

At As Green As, gardening is all about working with the tropical climate, and as the seasons change, there are their top three mistakes to watch out for that can make a big difference to how your plants perform.

‍

1. Forgetting the changing sun

A spot that stays beautifully shaded through winter can become full sun during summer. Plants that have been protected from the heat can suddenly become sunburnt, so think ahead about where the summer sun will fall before choosing where to plant.

‍

2. Missing the spring feed

Spring is the perfect time to give plants a boost as they enter active growth. At As Green As, Organic Link fertiliser is a favourite, with feeding recommended approximately every three months.

‍

3. Forgetting some favourites don't love tropical summers

Lavender, rosemary and many pretty flowering plants can thrive through our cooler months but struggle with summer heat and humidity. Growing them in pots allows greater control over sunlight, watering and drainage. As Green As has a wide range of ceramic and plastic pots to suit.

‍

For those wanting to keep growing vegetables throughout summer, As Green As also has hydroponic systems and AutoPot self-watering setups, from beginner-friendly kits through to larger systems.

‍

AutoPot systems automatically deliver water and nutrients without pumps, electricity or complicated timers, making them ideal for busy gardeners and they are currently 40 per cent off!

‍

With plants, pet supplies, aquarium products, hydroponics, garden supplies and giftware, As Green As is open seven days a week, making it easy to get your garden ready for the tropical months ahead.

‍

‍

Cassowary Coast residents are encouraged to nominate the individuals, groups and organisations making a difference in the community for the 2027 Australia Day Awards. Photo supplied: Cassowary Coast Regional Council

‍

Cassowary Coast residents are being encouraged to shine a spotlight on the people and organisations making a difference across the region, with nominations now open for the 2027 Cassowary Coast Australia Day Awards.

‍

The annual awards recognise outstanding contributions through community service, leadership, volunteering, sporting achievements, environmental initiatives and projects or events that strengthen the region.

‍

Cassowary Coast Mayor Teresa Millwood said the awards provided an opportunity to thank those whose efforts often make a significant impact within their communities.

‍

“These awards are about recognising dedication, community spirit and service. They remind us of the extraordinary contributions being made across the Cassowary Coast and give us the chance to say thank you to the people and groups helping our region thrive,” Mayor Millwood said.

‍

Seven categories are open for nominations in 2027: Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, Lifetime Contribution Award, Community Event/Project of the Year, Community Volunteer Champion Award, Sports Person of the Year and Sustainable Environment Award.

‍

The awards aim to recognise everything from individual achievements and inspirational leadership to successful community initiatives contributing to the social, cultural, economic and environmental prosperity of the Cassowary Coast.

‍

The 2027 Australia Day Awards Ceremony will be held at Mission Beach Resort on Friday 22nd January, ahead of Australia Day on Tuesday 26th January.

‍

Community members are encouraged to consider the individuals and organisations whose contributions deserve recognition and submit a nomination through the Cassowary Coast Regional Council website.

‍

Cardwell RSL celebrate the new backup generator. Photo supplied: Robert lang, Cardwell RSL Sub Branch President

‍

The Cardwell RSL Sub Branch has strengthened its ability to support the local community during natural disasters with the addition of a new backup generator.

The generator is housed in a newly constructed shed, built by local builder Barney Glass, while the electrical connection was completed by local electrician Adrian Cammelleri.

‍

Cardwell RSL Sub Branch President Robert Lang said the new generator would provide an important backup for the organisation in the event of a natural disaster or power outage.

‍

“The Cardwell RSL Sub Branch is delighted to have a new back up generator in case of a natural disaster,” Mr Lang said.

“Without the generous support from the Foundation for Rural Regional Renewal (FRRR) this project would not have been possible.”

‍

“The FRRR sponsors many projects throughout Australia assisting remote communities to strengthen their resilience to wild weather events.”

‍

The new generator adds another layer of preparedness for the Cardwell RSL Sub Branch, which regularly plays a role in supporting the community.

‍

Members are among the many local volunteers who give their time to the community each week, including providing meals, refreshments and raffles at the sub branch every Sunday.

‍

The project also highlights the contribution of local businesses and organisations, with the shed construction and electrical work both completed by local tradespeople. With Cardwell and surrounding communities regularly exposed to severe weather, the new backup generator will provide an important resource when it is needed most.

Women and girls across the Cassowary Coast are being invited to a series of free sessions designed to build confidence around finances, planning and making informed financial decisions.

‍

Hosted by the Tully Support Centre through the Empowering Queensland Women Grants program, the Financial Health, Planning and Empowerment sessions will be held across Kurrimine Beach, Mission Beach and Cardwell this week.

‍

Guest speaker Bernice Hookey, a proud Waanyi and MuruWarri woman, business owner, facilitator and advocate, will lead the sessions. Ms Hookey is the founder and executive director of M7R Empowerment and has worked across Indigenous leadership, cultural inclusion, education and health equity.

‍

The first session will be held at Kurrimine Progress Hall on Tuesday 8th September from 4pm to 6pm, followed by the Mission Beach Library meeting room on Wednesday 9th September, and Cardwell RSL on Thursday 10th September, both from 4pm to 6pm.

‍

The sessions aim to provide practical tools and information to help women strengthen their finances, plan for the future and feel more confident making financial decisions.

‍

The events are free and open to women and girls aged 16 and over, with light refreshments, snacks and nibbles provided.

‍

Places are limited and registrations can be made by contacting the Tully Support Centre on 4068 1004 or maxine@tullysupportcentre.com.au.

‍

This week’s reader of the week is David Musumeci, Exercise Physiologist at Tully Nursing Home, who is flicking through paper between trying out the new equipment donated by Mission Beach Meals On Wheels. The residents are loving the donation and send their thanks!

FNQ Motors recently donated $400 to Tully Support Centre as part of their Community Benefits Program, a scheme that donates $100 from each vehicle purchase to a beneficiary nominated by the customer.

‍

FNQ Motor Group estimates the program will generate more than $5,000 in community donations each month, providing a significant boost to organisations and groups across the region over the course of the year.

‍

For Cassowary Coast customers, it means buying a car can now do more than simply get them from A to B — it can also help support the people, causes and organisations that matter most to them. This one’s a good deed that really does go the extra mile.

‍