Award-winning wildlife artist Daryl Dickson uses her intricate paintings to celebrate Australia's unique wildlife and inspire conservation. Photo supplied

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Award-winning artist, author and conservationist Daryl Dickson has spent more than two decades combining her passion for art with a lifelong commitment to protecting Australia's unique wildlife. Currently living with her husband at Mungarru Lodge Sanctuary in Far North Queensland, she’s surrounded by the ancient rainforest and remarkable native species that have become the heart of both her life and her work.

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“It’s the tropical landscapes, the magnificent forests and the amazing wildlife that has shaped my art and our lives,” Ms Dickson said.

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Sharing her home on the traditional lands of the Girramay People with some of Australia's rarest and most threatened species, including the endangered mahogany glider, has profoundly influenced Ms Dickson’s artistic journey, and years spent rescuing and rehabilitating native wildlife have also given her an extraordinary opportunity to study many elusive animals up close, allowing her to capture them with remarkable precision.

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“I really do live and breathe wildlife – it occupies so much of my life, it’s an inspiration for my art, it’s what fills my quiet hours, and what brings me joy – it really has been such an exceptional privilege to live in this landscape and share it with such stunning creatures,” she enthused.

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“The opportunity to observe these rare and beautiful creatures informs every detail of my work – it’s such a rare privilege and for an artist who paints in fine detail it has been wonderful. I had never dreamed that I could be so lucky.”

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Ms Dickson's original works are held in private collections across Australia, Europe and the United States. An accomplished author and illustrator, she has published the acclaimed coffee table book Celebrating Australia's Magnificent Wildlife – The Art of Daryl Dickson and illustrated several children's books celebrating native fauna. For her, art is not only a creative pursuit but also a powerful tool for conservation.

“Art is a brilliant way to engage not only people who love wildlife, but also people who just enjoy art – it’s an opportunity to share information about endangered species and their conservation in a gentle way,” said Ms Dickson.

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“I hope it inspires adults and children to love and value wildlife and wild places and also brings focus to little known species like our mahogany glider.  

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“There’s a quote I read sometime ago that says ‘what we don’t know we can’t love, and what we don’t love we won’t protect’ – this is the case for our little known gliders and many other species.”

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Ms Dickson’s contribution to both art and conservation has earned widespread recognition, including the prestigious Wet Tropics Cassowary Award for Art, the William T. Cooper Conservation Award, Cassowary Coast Citizen of the Year, and numerousfirst-place honours at art exhibitions throughout Queensland.

Beyond the easel, Ms Dickson remains deeply committed to protecting the region she calls home. She is President of the Wildlife Queensland Cassowary Coast–Hinchinbrook branch and a long-time member of the Mahogany Glider Recovery Team, using both her conservation work and her artwork to encourage a greater appreciation of Australia's unique wildlife.

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“My husband and I share this wonderful life, wildlife and our arts business on the Cassowary Coast. Life is busy and rich, and we owe a debt to this place for all it has gifted to our lives and work in the last three decades,” she said.

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“Sharing our love of this place, in any way we can, is the aim of all we do here. It is too precious to lose.”

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Wayde Chiesa MP with Ingham SES new recruits 2026. Photo supplied  

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The 2026-27 Queensland SES Support Grant Program is set to strengthen preparedness across the Hinchinbrook, through projects that aim to make sure local SES volunteers are ready to leap into action the moment disaster strikes and to support our community through recovery afterwards, whether it’s storms, floods, cyclones, or search and rescue operations.  

Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa said this investment is a major boost for our local SES volunteers and for everyone who calls our community home.  

“Our SES volunteers are always there when our community needs them most, and this investment is about making sure they have the facilities and equipment they need to do their job safely and effectively,” Mr Chiesa said.  

“The command building, vehicle replacement and facility upgrades will strengthen the capability of the Halifax, Ingham and Rollingstone SES Units and help volunteers continue their incredible work protecting local families during emergencies.  

As part of the funding, the Halifax SES Unit will receive $142,874 for a new command building, while the Ingham SES Unit will receive $71,871 to replace operational vehicles.  

Mayor of Hinchinbrook Council and chair of the Hinchinbrook Local Disaster Management Group, Ramon Jayo, said the funding would strengthen the capability of SES volunteers in Hinchinbrook and support a more effective response during emergencies.  

“This funding will help ensure our SES volunteers have access to the facilities and equipment they need to respond safely and effectively when our community needs them most,” Mayor Jayo said.  

“The proposed upgrades to the Halifax command building and the replacement vehicle for the Ingham unit are practical investments that will support emergency response operations and strengthen local disaster preparedness across the Hinchinbrook Shire.”  

The Rollingstone SES Unit will also benefit from $27,782 in facility upgrades, with the funding through Townsville City Council.  

The investment forms part of the State Government's statewide commitment to strengthen SES capability, with 35 projects funded across Queensland and an additional 12 priority SES vehicles fast-tracked for replacement.  

Queensland SES Acting Chief Officer Danny Baade said the funding would improve the safety and operational capability of SES volunteers across Queensland.  

“It’s vital that our members are supported in disaster preparedness and response," Mr Baade said.    

“Whether it’s floods, cyclones, or search and rescues, this funding will allow our units to be equipped to help Queenslanders when they need it most.”  

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Project details:  

Recipient: Hinchinbrook Shire Council  

SES Unit: Halifax  

Project: Command building  

Funding: $142,874  

Recipient: Hinchinbrook Shire Council  

SES Unit: Ingham  

Project: Vehicle replacement  

Funding: $71,871  

Recipient: Townsville City Council  

SES Unit: Rollingstone  

Project: Facility upgrades  

Funding: $27,782

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Volunteer firefighters across the Cassowary Coast were recognised during Rural Fire Service Queensland Week. Photo source: Queensland Fire Department

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Volunteer firefighters across the Cassowary Coast were recognised for their dedication during Rural Fire Service Queensland (RFSQ) Week 2026, with a Far North brigade taking out one of the service's highest regional honours.

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The Killaloe Rural Primary Producer Brigade, near Port Douglas, has been named the Northern Region Brigade of the Year, recognising its outstanding commitment to emergency response, disaster preparedness and community service.

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Rural Fire Service Queensland Week, held from 26th July to 1st August, celebrates the more than 27,000 volunteers who help communities across the State prepare for, respond to and recover from emergencies.

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The Queensland Government also used the week to recognise the contribution of volunteer firefighters through continued investment in new appliances, brigade stations, equipment and facility upgrades. More than a dozen new firefighting vehicles werehanded over to brigades during the week, building on the delivery of more than 100 new appliances across Queensland last financial year.

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Minister for Fire, Disaster Recovery and Volunteers Ann Leahy said Rural Fire Service Queensland Week was an opportunity to thank volunteers for the vital role they play in protecting communities.

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"Our volunteer firefighters are there when Queenslanders need them most, giving their time to help protect lives, property and communities across the State," Minister Leahy said.

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"The Government is backing our volunteer firefighters with the new trucks, new brigade stations, upgraded facilities and equipment they need to respond safely and effectively.”

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Queensland Fire Department Commissioner Steve Smith said the work of Rural Fire Service Queensland volunteers extended well beyond emergency incidents.

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"The work of our RFSQ volunteers is truly outstanding. They are not only protecting life and property during emergencies but also turning up to training nights, preparedness meetings and community events," Commissioner Smith said.

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"They are the friendly faces their neighbours can count on to help them stay informed, prepared and educated."

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For the last three years, Olsen Industrial Electrics has been operating out of South Mission Beach and is quickly building their reputation as the areas go-to specialists for complex industrial electrical works.  

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The business is family owned and operated with technical expert Brad Olsen an RPEQ certified electrician leading the engineering side whilst wife Angela Olsen runs the AC Hydro Wash operations.  

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Their two young children Astrid & Axel might not be old enough to be on the tools just yet but Brad says ‘they’re the heart of the business’. Keeping the business family focused whilst also having job satisfaction is the best of both worlds.  

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Their skillset is way beyond standard electrical work as they specialise in large scale industrial systems. Not only do they repair broken systems but they can also create design and install bespoke systems.  

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‘There’s no limitations on us; we do all your in house engineering, the drawings, motor rebuilds, pump wet ends rebuilds, design, install, servicing and maintenance’  

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The team have also welcomed onboard Jack Hogan who is 6 months into his apprenticeship and is valued member of the team.  

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Known for tackling jobs that no one else can, Olsen Electrical understand the pressure’s local businesses face when machinery breaks down. Working in a rural setting it’s important to get up and running as quickly as possible. Wether it’s a banana packing line, irrigation system, switchboards or other crucial farming equipment Olsen Electrical will act fast to keep your business moving.  

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Enquiries can be made to Olsen Electrical on 0427 070 285 or send them an email to sales@olsenelectrical.com  

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Council contractors are scheduled to commence works on the Ernest Street footpath upgrade project on Monday 3^rd August, weather permitting. Photo source: Cassowary Coast Regional Council

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A major upgrade to Ernest Street in Innisfail will get underway next month, with works aimed at improving safety, accessibility and the overall appearance of the town centre.

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Construction is scheduled to begin on Monday 3rd August, weather permitting, and will see the existing footpath replaced with a new exposed aggregate concrete surface. New streetscape planting and landscaping will also be added as part of the project to enhance the look and feel of the Innisfail CBD.

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The project is expected to be completed by mid-December and will be carried out in stages to minimise disruption.

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Throughout construction, businesses will remain open and pedestrian access will be maintained, with the community encouraged to continue supporting local traders.

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Temporary traffic management, pedestrian detours, construction noise and changes to roadside parking can be expected as works progress. Short-term parking zones will also be introduced at various stages to help maintain customer access and deliveries.

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Council said property access and essential services, including power, water and telecommunications, are expected to remain available throughout the project, with advance notice provided if any temporary interruptions are required.

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Cassowary Coast Mums Club Collective founder Tahlia Morrison says the group's mission of connecting local mothers will continue, despite the organisation's closure. Photo source: Mums Club Collective

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Just seven months after its inception, the Cassowary Coast Mums Club Collective (MCC) has announced it will close as a not-for-profit organisation, marking the end of a much-loved initiative that has brought local mothers together through friendship, support and shared experiences.

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MCC’s founder and local mother of three Tahlia Morrison said the decision had been a difficult one, with the growing administrative demands of operating a not-for-profit prompting her to reassess the group's future.

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"It really wasn't an easy decision and honestly, I've probably been thinking about it for a lot longer than people realise," Tahlia said.

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Established in January 2026, MCC was born from Tahlia’s own experience of navigating motherhood in a regional community. After returning to the Cassowary Coast, she identified a gap in opportunities for local mothers to connect and set out to create a welcoming space where women could find friendship and a sense of belonging.

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"Mums Club started because I saw a need," she said.

"I was a mum in a regional area, I knew how isolating motherhood could feel and I wanted to create something that made it a little easier for mums to find their people."

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What began as a small community initiative quickly evolved into a thriving network of mothers from across the Cassowary Coast. Through regular catch-ups and events, MCC provided a supportive environment for women navigating the joys and challenges of motherhood, leaving a lasting impact on many families throughout the region.

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While the collective will no longer operate in its current form, Tahlia said its mission is far from over, confirming the popular Coffee Catch Ups will continue on the second and fourth Thursday of each month from 9:30am at Castaways Bar & Grill in Mission Beach, offering a simple and sustainable way for local mothers to stay connected.

"The heart of Mums Club was always connecting mums, creating friendships and making motherhood feel a little less lonely and I don't think that needs to end just because the organisation is wrapping up," Tahlia said.

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"At the end of the day, Mums Club was never really about being a not-for-profit organisation. It was always about mums having somewhere to go, and I'm actually really excited about stripping it back to what it was always about and finding a way to keep that going in a simpler, more sustainable way."

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Although the organisation's chapter may be coming to an end, the connections it created and the community it fostered are set to endure, with Tahlia expressing heartfelt gratitude to the mothers who embraced the collective and the many individuals who supported it throughout its journey.

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"I hope everyone who was part of Mums Club knows that it mattered," she said.

"It mattered to me, and I know it mattered to a lot of mums who came through the doors."

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Despite the difficult decision to close the organisation, Tahlia said she remains immensely proud of what the collective achieved and the connections the group was able to fuse within the community in just seven months.

“We weren’t changing the world, but we were creating little pockets of connection for mums who might otherwise have spent the day feeling pretty lonely, and I think that’s actually really important,” she said.

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"The organisation might be wrapping up, but the reason we started it in the first place isn't going anywhere. Mums still need connection, friendship and somewhere they can show up exactly as they are. So, we'll keep doing that, just in a simpler way."

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Draft illustration of proposed Innisfail CBD Waterfront precinct. Image source: Cassowary Coast Regional Council

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Cassowary Coast Regional Council is inviting the community to have its say on the future of the Innisfail Waterfront precinct, with planning underway to guide the area's long-term redevelopment.

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The project aims to ensure the precinct remains safe, functional and suitable for both community and marine use, while building on the vision outlined in the Innisfail CBD Revitalisation Master Plan.

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With existing marine infrastructure and community assets nearing the end of their intended lifespan, Council says the renewal presents a unique opportunity to reimagine the waterfront as a vibrant destination for residents and visitors alike.

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Planning is centred around six key themes, including revitalising the waterfront, enhancing the tropical landscape, improving accessibility and connectivity, celebrating Innisfail's culture and heritage, encouraging tourism, and creating an inclusive community space.

As part of the consultation, Council is seeking feedback on a range of potential future uses, including recreational fishing and boating facilities, visitor accommodation, tourism opportunities and the possible inclusion of a water play area.

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No decisions have been made, with community feedback set to play an important role in informing future planning, which would be delivered in stages and remain subject to funding, approvals and further consultation.

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Mayor Teresa Millwood said the project represented an exciting opportunity for the region.

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"The opportunity to revitalise and restore life into the Waterfront precinct is an exciting time for Innisfail and its surrounding communities,” she said.

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"As part of the Innisfail CBD Revitalisation Master Plan, enhancing the river's attractiveness provides the potential to become the drawcard for the city, placing Innisfail in a stronger position to attract future funding and economic growth.

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"With a focus on balancing commercial operations, recreational activities and tourism, the proposed development of the Waterfront precinct will become a place of community pride and connectivity."

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Community consultation is open until Monday 10th August, with residents able to provide feedback online, via paper surveys or at upcoming engagement events.

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The State of the Region Roadshow panel saw speakers from telecommunications services, economists, and industry specialists. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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Community leaders, businesses and residents gathered at the Ingham Powerhouse on Tuesday 21^st July for the State of the Region Roadshow, with speakers highlighting Hinchinbrook's strong economic foundations and future growth potential.

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Presented by Regional Development Australia (RDA) Townsville and North West Queensland in partnership with the Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Tourism, the event featured independent economic insights from Regional Economic Advisory Principal Economist Matthew Kelly.

According to RDA Townsville and North West Queensland, the presentation highlighted a region with a strong industry base, desirable lifestyle and significant potential for continued growth, while encouraging discussion around the opportunities ahead for the Hinchinbrook community.

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Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Tourism President Mary Brown said one of the most encouraging aspects of the evening was seeing official data confirm trends many locals had already observed.

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"Personally, the most encouraging information coming out of the roadshow was the economic trend data provided by economist Matt Kelly, with data continuing to show pleasing population growth trends in Hinchinbrook Shire," Mary said.

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"Whilst those of us living and working in this space on the ground have been seeing this trend and receiving anecdotal advice of these positive changes over the past 10 years, it is very heartening to see the official data now reflecting this trend."

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Mary said the presentations reinforced her confidence in the region's future.

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"Listening to all the presentations, it reinforced my long-held belief that despite some of the short-term challenges that impact our community over the years, the Hinchinbrook Shire is well placed for a very optimistic future, that will be achieved when those who are prepared to invest in that future are supported by strong political leadership and favourable policy decisions that support regional communities."

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RDA Townsville and North West Queensland thanked Hinchinbrook Shire Council for welcoming the roadshow, the Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Tourism for hosting the community session, Deputy Mayor Mary Brown for her support, and the panel members and community members who contributed to the discussion.

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Residents interested in exploring local employment opportunities can visit Jobs Townsville North Queensland and discover what Hinchinbrook has to offer www.jobsnorthqueensland.com.au

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The new Cell 4, which is now operational, will provide the additional capacity needed to continue delivery of essential services in the Hinchinbrook Shire. Photo supplied: Hinchinbrook Shire Council

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A $2.8 million investment in the Warrens Hill Landfill and Resource Recovery Centre has now been completed.

The new Cell 4, which is now operational, includes a modern, multi-layer liner system designed to protect surrounding land and groundwater while meeting Queensland's strict environmental standards.

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Mayor Ramon Jayo said the project was completed at a critical time, with landfill capacity becoming increasingly limited.

"As landfill capacity tightened, Council officers moved quickly to identify practical, safe and environmentally responsible solutions to ensure waste services could continue without interruption for the community," Mayor Jayo said.

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"The completion of Cell 4 gives Council additional capacity and provides certainty that residents, businesses and visitors can continue to access reliable waste disposal services while Council plans for the Shire’s long-term waste management needs."

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With Cell 4 now operational, Council's focus will turn to the development of a long-term Waste Strategy.

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"The Waste Strategy will guide future planning and investment, helping ensure waste services continue to meet the needs of Hinchinbrook community for years to come," Mayor Jayo said.

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Council thanked staff, contractors and specialist advisors who contributed to the successful delivery of the project, and invited residents to support sustainable waste management by reducing household waste, recycling correctly and making use of the waste and resource recovery services available across the Shire.

Last Tuesday, I joined six other Queensland Mayors to visit Federal Minister Kristy McBain in Melbourne to protest against the proposed changes to Disaster Relief Funding arrangements.  

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The proposed changes will essentially see a reduction in the amount of funds that the Federal Government will contribute to disaster response and recovery, to the tune of 25 per cent.

Calculated on average over the past nine years, during which we have experienced five declared events, that means a loss of $2 million per annum. That is a significant amount of money for a small council such as ours.

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Federal Minister Kristy McBain was in Melbourne attending the National Emergency Management Ministers' Meeting together with all other state emergency ministers, and we took the opportunity to ensure that all state ministers, not just those in Queensland, are aware of the severity of the issue facing Queensland as the most disaster-prone state in Australia.

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It is not fair for the level of government that receives the most taxation revenue in Australia, at 80 per cent, to slash its contribution to helping communities recover and put the burden on the states, which account for 17 per cent of all taxation revenue, or onto councils when our sector collects just three per cent.

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And when there is less money coming from Canberra, that means local ratepayers will carry more of the burden, with less money available for other critical programs. Premier David Crisafulli has already indicated during Senate estimates that the State of Queensland is not in a position to pick up the loss of revenue for recovery programs resulting from reductions by the Federal Government.

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The other critical matter is raising the threshold for when disaster relief kicks in. At the moment, relief kicks in when the costs to respond to and recover from a disaster exceed $240,000.  

Under the new arrangements, federal funding will not be activated until costs exceed $2.7 million. This alone will leave small communities such as ours without critical support.

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It is, however, pleasing to note that in Queensland we do have bipartisan support against the proposed changes, with both the State Government and the State Opposition publicly opposing the changes.

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Apart from the initial clean-up and repairs to our roads, one of the most visible signs of recovery after a major flood event is the return of our parks, gardens and recreational spaces. These areas are at the heart of our communities, providing places for families to gather, children to play, residents to exercise, and visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of our region.

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Sadly, the 2025 event left most of our parks and gardens needing repair. We have almost finished, with crews now working on the last of them.

The work undertaken includes more than $1.08 million in parks and public-space works, covering major repairs at Rotary Park, Ninja Park, Garbutt and Interact playgrounds, as well as exercise equipment, walking tracks, footbridges, viewing infrastructure, gardens, and the TYTO Wetlands.

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The Community and Recreational Asset Recovery Grants (CRARG) Program has provided vital disaster recovery funding to help Hinchinbrook Shire Council restore these assets.  

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This funding has given us the opportunity to maintain safe and accessible community spaces while reducing the financial burden that disaster repairs would otherwise place on Council’s limited budget and local ratepayers.

Jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, the broader CRARG program is supporting the restoration of 41 community assets across the Shire.  

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Without this funding, Council would find it very difficult to recover from a disaster situation.

Every repaired playground, refurbished park and rejuvenated garden helps strengthen a community that has, quite simply, “been through the wringer”, while also supporting the recovery and healing process.  

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Council and the community are very thankful for the assistance provided during this time and remain hopeful that the Federal Government will reconsider proposed changes to the current Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.

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The Awards saw Forrest Beach SLSC come away with multiple recognitions. Photo source: Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club

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Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club has claimed the North Barrier Branch Club of the Year title for the third consecutive year, with the achievement announced at the 90th Annual North Barrier Branch Awards of Excellence in Mackay.

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The club’s popular Beers by the Beach initiative also received the Community Engagement Award, recognising them for bringing people together while raising valuable funds to support the club's volunteer lifesavers.

Junior Activities Chair Melissa Hall was honoured, receiving the prestigious Andy Frizzell OAM Service to Junior Activities Award, acknowledging her outstanding commitment to the club's Nippers program and junior members.

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Club Captain Michael Biasi, Melissa Hall and Mariam Hall, the North Barrier Branch Membership and Community Awareness Coordinator, represented Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club at the awards ceremony and the North Barrier Branch Membership Development Conference, accepting the awards on behalf of the club.

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The club said the recognition reflected the commitment of every member, volunteer and supporter who contributes their time and effort throughout the year.

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Securing the Club of the Year title for a third year highlights the strength of Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club both on and off the beach, recognising not only its lifesaving services but also its strong focus on junior development and local engagement.

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The Lions Club of Ingham and the Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride members holding the pink underwear that is part of the Wombats group tradition. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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The Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride has officially wrapped up for 2026, with 140 riders completing the three-day journey while raising vital funds for childhood cancer research.

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The annual charity ride stopped in Ingham on day two, Thursday 23^rd July, after riders completed the first 112-kilometre stage from Townsville. The group continued north through the Hinchinbrook region before finishing the ride in Cairns on Saturday 25^th July.

Among those joining the ride this year was Townsville Mayor Nick Dametto, who returned to his hometown of Ingham as part of the Wombats riding group.

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Mayor Dametto completed the opening leg from Townsville to Ingham and said being part of the event was a proud moment.

“Yesterday I was able to join the Wombats for the first leg of the Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride, 112 kilometres yesterday from Townsville all the way to Ingham, and it just made me so proud to be a part of the group and be able to contribute in some way,” he said.

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“This charity is all about finding a way so we have a world without childhood cancers. That’s a world that I want to live in one day.”

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Ride President and rider John Masson said the Ingham stop marked another successful stage of the 26th annual event, with all seven riding groups arriving safely after a fast day on the road.

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“We had the wind behind us. It was probably one of the fastest days on the road for all the groups,” he said.

The riders were divided into seven groups, each named after an Australian animal, with groups catering for everyone speed abilities. The ride has raised more than $8 million for the Children’s Cancer Institute Australia over 26 years, supporting research into childhood cancers and treatments.

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John said one of the institute’s key projects involved analysing childhood cancers to identify genetic mutations that may respond to specific treatments.

“The goal is to reduce the mortality from childhood cancer to zero,” he said.

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“Thirty odd years ago, 80 per cent of kids died. Now only 20 per cent die, and let’s hope in another 20 years it will be near, if not zero.”

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The Ingham Lions Club has been supporting the ride for more than 20 years, joining Lions Clubs across North Queensland in supporting the riders along the route.

Member Pat Lynch said the club was proud to contribute to an event that aligned with the Lions’ commitment to supporting important causes, with the Ingham Lions Club also making an annual donation towards the fundraiser.

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For Wombats group rider and Communications Coordinator Jeanie McIntosh, the event is something she looks forward to. After participating for seven years, Jeanie said the friendships formed between riders, volunteers and the towns they visit were one of the most special parts of the experience.

“What we love about the ride is the whole community gets involved from towns along the way, the Lions, the road crew, and everyone supporting us,” she said.

“I’ve been seeing the same people for seven years, so you really miss people when you don’t see them.”

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Each riding group has developed its own traditions, with the Wombats known for their light-hearted approach, matching pink socks and team camaraderie.

One of their traditions involves a pair of pink lacy underwear, which riders must wear after being nominated for doing something silly during the ride. Even Mayor Dametto found himself taking part in the tradition.

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After three days on the road, the riders crossed the finish line in Cairns having once again pedalled in the kilometres to help create a future without childhood cancer.

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This year’s ride aimed to raise $300,000, with the current total sitting at $260,000 following the conclusion of the event. Community members can still support the cause through the Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride fundraising page: www.tcbr.org.au/event/tcbr-2026/donate

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Queenslanders are being urged to remain vigilant and report any sick or dead wild birds after the state's first suspected case of H5 high pathogenicity avian influenza (bird flu) was detected.

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The suspected case was identified in a deceased petrel that washed ashore on Moreton Island. Initial testing has returned a suspected positive result, with samples now undergoing further testing at the CSIRO's Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness for final confirmation.

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There have been no detections of the virus in native birds or poultry in Queensland, and there is no evidence of large-scale deaths among animals. The Queensland Government said the risk to human health remains unchanged and reassured the public that it is safe to continue eating chicken meat and eggs.

The announcement comes as at least one Hinchinbrook resident has already taken precautions, reporting a washed-up dead bird found about one kilometre north of the Forrest Beach boat ramp after spotting it while out walking.

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Anyone who sees sick or dead birds is urged to avoid contact and report the sighting immediately to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.

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Peter Reitano of Felix Reitano Real Estate. Photo supplied.

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After his family entered the Real Estate industry in the early 1990s, Peter Reitano spent decades building relationships, guiding buyers and sellers through one of life's biggest decisions.

"It has given me the chance to meet so many amazing people who have become valued clients," he said.  

"The moment that a Buyer finds a property that they love, then the Seller agrees to the price that the Buyer is comfortable with. Just the feeling that everyone is happy makes me happy."

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He believes the foundations of a great real estate agent are "politeness, honesty and ability to listen to clients and find out what they need,"

"Having lived here for my whole life I find that our town is friendly and I would like to think it is welcoming. I always do my best to greet people with a smile and welcome them."

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A lifelong local, Peter is equally passionate about the community he calls home.

"That as an Agent I have dealt with contracts hundreds of times -if not a thousand- in my life and that I realise this might be the first time they have ever done it," Peter said.  

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"I do my best to guide them through the steps as best I can to find their dream home or land to build their home on (...) or the Seller to give them the best possible service, They have most likely spent a lot of time putting loving touches to their homes and we want to get the best for them."

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It's an approach that reflects Peter's understanding that every property journey is different, even so, his focus always remains dedicated to his clients and achieving the best possible outcome for them.

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