Cr Donna Marbelli

Grab your calendar — digital or paper — and mark down Friday, 14 November 2025, for the 47th Hinchinbrook Art Awards, one of North Queensland’s most anticipated cultural events.

Artists from across the nation are invited to take part in this vibrant celebration of creativity and innovation, showcasing a diverse range of artistic mediums — from painting and sculpture to contemporary mixed media.

The Awards, to be held at the TYTO Regional Art Gallery, offer a dynamic platform for both emerging and established artists to exhibit their work, connect with audiences, and contribute to the rich artistic landscape of the region.

This year, I am honoured to join respected artists Alison McDonald and Fran Nason on the judging panel.

Together, we will have the privilege of viewing and assessing the many incredible works submitted, each one a reflection of imagination, skill and passion.

The Awards are proudly supported by a strong network of local sponsors and this is a true testament to the commitment our community continues to show towards fostering the arts and cultural growth.

The highlight of the event will be Opening Night on Friday 14 November 2025 an evening not to be missed. Guests will be the first to see the stunning artworks on display, enjoy the lively atmosphere, and celebrate the achievements of artists from near and far. With entertainment, refreshments, and the buzz of creativity in the air, Opening Night promises to be a memorable community celebration of art and culture for our shire.

The 47th Hinchinbrook Art Awards have become a long-standing tradition and a much-loved highlight on the shire’s arts calendar. Importantly, they provide a pathway for young and emerging artists to gain recognition, build confidence, and share their talents with a wider audience. Supporting these artists not only strengthens our local creative community but also ensures the next generation of cultural voices continues to grow and thrive.

Council looks forward to welcoming you on Opening Night as we celebrate the talent, passion, and imagination that make the Hinchinbrook Art Awards so special. It’s a true celebration of creativity at TYTO Art Gallery and beyond.

And while you’re marking your calendars, don’t forget the Maraka Festival events happening over the weekends of 18 October 2025 and 25 October 2025 — another wonderful local celebration that’s not to be missed on our shire’s calendar.

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There’s something wonderfully down-to-earth about a Sunday lunch where friends and family gather, and the aroma of the grill draws you in. At Cardwell RSL, the weekly midday BBQ lunch is exactly that, a warm, community soundtrack to the weekend. For just $10, you get a hearty feed, and for dessert lovers, a sweet treat is available for $5.

What makes it more than just a meal is the spirit behind it. Non-members are more than welcome, as it’s a chance to catch up, reconnect, and simply enjoy good company. The club sweetens the pot with five roasted chook raffles and a $100 board prize, giving that sense of fun and anticipation. Meanwhile, Cardwell RSL plays its part in stewardship too, encouraging guests to bring along their 10 cent recycling empties, with the lunch proceeds flowing to support Cardwell community projects.

Set on Roma Street, Cardwell, this Sunday ritual embodies the RSL’s roots, not just a veterans’ organisation, but a local gathering place woven into town life. The grill fires up each week, so get up to Cardwell and enjoy a truly connected and delicious Sunday. The bar opens at 10am and meals are served about 12:30pm.

One of the region’s most treasured events will soon ignite the grounds of the beloved Herbert River Jockey Club as the renowned Hinchinbrook Cup returns for another year!

Set to be held on Saturday, the 15th of November, the extravaganza has well and truly earned the prestigious title of being Ingham’s biggest and best horse racing event across the annual calendar.

Although entry tickets sales are yet to go live on the Herbert River Jockey Club’s website, the teaser of what’s to be expected from the family event has already attracted waves of attention and excitement. Gates will be open from 11am sharp until late to showcase a plethora of local horse races accompanied by on-site local and southern bookmakers, a groovy DJ and live band, a bar and canteen, children’s entertainment, and of course, the ever-popular Fashions on the Field.

Children's tickets can only be purchased at the gate on race day, they will not be available to purchase online.

Fashions on the Field continues to be the most highly anticipated feature of the Herbert River Jockey Club’s events, and with several spectacular Judging Categories, it’s clear why. With Best Dressed Couple, Contemporary Lady of the Track, Best Dressed Man of the Track, and Spotter’s Choice among the event’s Judging Categories, race goers have the opportunity to walk the runway and leave a star. A list of the specific criteria expected in each of the Judging Categories is available online at hrjc.com.au/fashions-on-the-field.

Keep your eyes on the Herbert River Jockey Club’s social media pages to be the first to know when entry tickets go on sale, and mark you calendars for a memorable weekend!

WHAT: Herbert River Jockey Club's Hinchinbrook Cup
WHEN: Saturday, 15th of November, from 11am
WHERE: Herbert River Jockey Club, 69 Marina Parade, Ingham

Wilmar Sugar is continuing to make strong progress with the 2025 crushing season, supported by solid factory performance and a steady run of fine weather across its milling regions.

As of 8am on the 30th of September, Wilmar’s eight factories had processed close to 10.38 million tonnes of sugarcane, representing 71 per cent of the total crop.

Following its second reforecast last week, the company has revised the total crop down to 14.52 million tonnes, a decrease of about 110,000 tonnes from the August estimate.

Despite the revision, crushing operations remain on track, with the Herbert, Burdekin and Proserpine regions expected to wrap up around November, and Plane Creek projected to finish in early December.

Herbert Region
The Herbert region’s crop estimate has been revised upward from 3.55 million to 3.7 million tonnes, an increase of 150,000 tonnes.
Dry and cool weather has helped CCS (Commercial Cane Sugar) levels climb above 13 units, which is a strong result considering the impact of the February flood event.
The field sector has been maintaining effective communication with operations teams, ensuring a consistent cane supply to the factories.

Burdekin Region
The Burdekin crop has been revised down from 7.97 million to 7.85 million tonnes, a reduction of about 120,000 tonnes.
Factory performance across all sites has been strong, with only occasional stoppages typical for this stage of the season.
Dry conditions are impacting the remaining crop, leading to a slight reduction in tonnage but contributing to higher CCS levels.

Proserpine Region
The Proserpine crop estimate has been revised down from 1.58 million to 1.53 million tonnes, a decrease of 50,000 tonnes.
CCS levels remain high, tracking almost half a unit above budget for the week to date.
However, ongoing dry weather has caused a decline in average crop yields since the start of September.

Plane Creek Region
The Plane Creek crop has been revised down from 1.53 million to 1.44 million tonnes, a reduction of around 90,000 tonnes.
Crushing rates have improved, supported by good bin weights from the growing and harvesting sectors.
Seasonal CCS levels continue to climb under the prolonged dry conditions.

Wilmar Sugar’s regional teams continue to work closely with growers and harvesting contractors to maintain efficient operations as the 2025 season progresses toward completion.

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Cantatore Pharmacy is much more than your everyday chemist. While it’s known for friendly service and reliable advice, it also offers a range of health, beauty, and lifestyle products that make it a true community hub.

One of the pharmacy’s standout features is its private consultation room, providing a comfortable space where customers can speak directly with a pharmacist about minor ailments or general health concerns. Extending beyond the usual prescription needs, with consultations available for travel advice, vaccinations, hormonal contraception, and basic health checks. The team takes the time to listen, helping you find practical solutions and ensuring you leave with confidence and peace of mind.

Cantatore Pharmacy also caters to those needing assistance with mobility or recovery. You can hire or purchase essential health and mobility aids, such as walkers, crutches, and other support equipment designed to make daily life easier and safer.

For those who enjoy a touch of luxury, the pharmacy’s beauty section is stocked with a delightful range of perfumes, skincare, and makeup, including trusted Australian brands like Nude by Nature and MCo Beauty. Shoppers looking for comfort can browse their selection of Scholl and Homyped footwear for men and women, known for their superior support and style.

Cantatore Pharmacy also hosts a busy lotto corner where locals can try their luck, pick up newspapers, or browse the latest magazines. Plus, a convenient photo printing machine is now available in store!

With the festive season approaching, the pharmacy’s gift range is well worth exploring. From beautifully packaged candles and fragrance diffusers to thoughtful gift sets, with free gift wrapping available too.

Cantatore Pharmacy also offers home deliveries, ensuring customers can access their medications and essentials with ease.

Now located at 86 Cartwright Street, Cantatore Pharmacy marks an exciting new chapter for the local favourite, offering all the essentials you expect, from first aid supplies and personal care to vitamins. Whether you’re seeking practical health solutions, a thoughtful gift, or simply a friendly face behind the counter, Cantatore Pharmacy has it all under one roof.

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Hiya Hinchinbrookshire!

This week, I’ve been focusing on a lot of 'M's. Maraka is just around the corner, and if you don’t already know — and if the front cover hasn’t given it away — I’m in the running for Maraka Queen! It’s truly exciting, as I’ve never done anything like this before. But with my determination to make the most of this opportunity the Lion’s Club has opened up to me, you can bet I will go all in, one hundred per cent.

Another 'M' this week was Mental Health. As someone who has experienced the ups and downs that mental health can bring to both body and mind, it was wonderful to take part in Selectability’s Big Breakfast and see their great example of slowing down and connecting at the park. Sometimes you have to take those small moments for yourself, or risk overwhelming yourself and burning out.

The last 'M' on my list was my mother. On Saturday, we took a little road trip up to Cardwell to see the Plant Expo, then continued to Tully for a spot of shopping. We enjoyed ice creams on the way home and spent the time chatting about everything and anything. I couldn’t ask for a better day out with her, and I hope to do another one soon.

Fun Fact: The letter M is the thirteenth letter of the Latin alphabet and is also used as a Roman numeral to denote the number 1000

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The Halifax SES Unit has received a significant boost, with a new canopy and essential equipment funded through the Halifax Emergency Liaison Partnership (H.E.L.P.) and a new rescue vehicle provided by the Queensland Government’s SES Support Grant program.

H.E.L.P. is a not-for-profit organisation formed to support emergency services across the Lower Herbert region, including Halifax, Lucinda, Taylors Beach and Macknade. The group raises funds through regular community raffles and events, such as the popular meat tray raffles held at the Lucinda Pub every second month. All proceeds go directly toward purchasing vital equipment for local emergency services, helping them respond effectively to community needs.

SES Local Controller Dan Cordner from the Halifax SES said the support from H.E.L.P. had made a real difference to their growing unit. “H.E.L.P. came in to provide the canopy for our new vehicle, as well as two large battery fans, a charging bank and a vacuum cleaner,” he explained. “It’s all very useful equipment for our volunteers, especially as Halifax is still a relatively new branch of the SES. We’re building up our portfolio of gear and trying to get back to where we were many years ago.”

Greg Sexton, a member of H.E.L.P. and the SES, added that the local fundraising efforts were a perfect example of how small communities come together in times of need. “Supporting the meat tray raffle at the Lucinda Pub is a big help,” Greg said. “The pub provides the prizes and the space, and we just turn up to sell the tickets. The funds go straight to H.E.L.P., which then supports groups like the SES, among others.”

With natural disasters a regular challenge in the region, the new vehicle and equipment will help the Halifax SES continue its vital work in keeping the Lower Herbert community safe.

If you’re looking for a practical way to help your community, consider joining the SES. New members are always welcome in the Lower Herbert and Ingham areas. Visit www.ses.qld.gov.au to learn more.

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Trent Johnson – Wilmar Grower Marketing Relationship Manager

I’m excited to introduce myself as Wilmar’s new Relationship Manager for the Herbert region
working alongside Franco Zaini. Having grown up in North Queensland and worked across the
agricultural sector, I understand how important it is for cane growers to have strong local
connections and practical support.

In this role, I’ll be working closely with Herbert growers to provide one-on-one support, helping you make informed decisions about your sugar marketing and pricing. My focus is on building lasting relationships and ensuring you have the tools and information you need to get the most value from your GEI Sugar.

It’s a great time to be joining the Wilmar team, with the launch of our Wilmar Grower
Advantage program. This new initiative recognises the important partnership we have with
growers and provides access to a range of exclusive offers and discounts through trusted
rural suppliers. It’s designed to help reduce on-farm costs and deliver extra value to your
business — just one more reason to market your GEI sugar with Wilmar.

If you would like to take advantage of discounted pricing and access to Elder’s professional
support services, please reach out to me or Franco to get you connected with the Elders
team.

As we look ahead to next season, I’d also like to remind growers that marketing nominations for the 2026 season close on 31 October 2025.

Choosing Wilmar Grower Marketing means partnering with a team that understands your
business, offers flexible pricing options, and continues to invest in programs that deliver real benefits to growers.

I look forward to meeting more of you in the coming weeks and learning about your goals for
the seasons ahead. Whether you’d like to chat about pricing, the new Grower Advantage
program, or your nomination for next season, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

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With Venables Glass and Home Solutions

Venables Glass and Home Solutions celebrates its second year in business, an impressive milestone for a locally owned company that has quickly earned a reputation for reliability, craftsmanship, and genuine community spirit.

Founded by experienced glazier Joey Venables, the business combines over three decades of trade expertise with a passion for serving the Ingham district. After working in larger centres like Geelong & Melbourne, Joey returned home during the pandemic and established Venables Glass and Home Solutions with a clear goal: to provide top-quality products and services while keeping business local.

Now entering its third year, the company continues to grow steadily. What began as a small team of two has expanded to Joey, two tradesmen and the office manager Hannah, with two new staff joining in the coming weeks. This growth reflects a growing demand for their services across the Hinchinbrook region, stretching north to Tully and south to Townsville.

Venables Glass and Home Solutions provides a comprehensive range of glazing, aluminium, and carpentry services. The team handles everything from minor home maintenance and repairs to large-scale window and door installations. With a full-time carpenter now on board, the business can assist residents with essential maintenance work, particularly those still addressing damage from past flooding events.

As North Queensland approaches storm season, the company’s expertise in preventative measures is more valuable than ever. Venables Glass and Home Solutions offers storm-damage repairs, window protection installations, and Invisi-Gard cyclone-rated security screens that meet government resilience program standards. These high-quality solutions not only enhance safety but can also be subsidised through available funding programs.

All work is custom-measured and fitted by the team, ensuring each job meets exact specifications. Many materials are manufactured in-house, while other specialised components are sourced from Townsville suppliers. This mix allows the business to support local industry while maintaining control over quality and turnaround times.

The company also provides free measuring and quoting services, reinforcing its commitment to transparent and accessible customer care. Their clients include homeowners, builders, and local tradespeople who rely on Venables Glass and Home Solutions for reliable products and service.

Beyond their trade work, the team takes pride in contributing to the local economy and supporting community events. Joey says one of the most rewarding parts of running the business is working in the town he grew up in, surrounded by family and familiar faces.

As Venables Glass and Home Solutions enters its third year, the future looks bright. With a growing team, strong community ties, and a commitment to quality, the business continues to set a solid example of local success built on integrity and genuine connection.

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Last week, Premier of Queensland David Crisafulli visited Ingham to see the impact of the Stronger Homes Grant, meeting with one of the successful households affected by February’s historic floods.

Premier Crisafulli said. “We said when the flood came through this town that we’d be here for the long haul, and for the long haul we are. I’m determined to make sure that this community knows it’s not being forgotten in the recovery from what was really historic floods.”

The programme has already been taken up by 44 local residents, with over half of the applications completed. “It’s about building resilience and allowing people to handle the next flood,” the Premier added. “Everything we’re doing is about making sure we can make our communities more resilient. By doing that work, it reduces the impact next time around, which means lower cost, less heartache, and getting people back on their feet.”

Mayor of Hinchinbrook, Raymon Jayo, highlighted the practical benefits of the reduced pressure local emergency agencies will face if more homes take on the Stronger Homes Grant: "One home affected can impact 10 to 15 others, so the Stronger Homes programme abates all that.”

Yvonne and Neville, recipients of the grant, described their experience. “During the flood, we lost our hot water service, and it was devastating,” Yvonne said. “After the floods had died back, the Stronger Homes Grant was released. We applied, and it was a very simple process. I was overjoyed to hear back so quickly that we’d been granted $10,000. We were able to replace the hot water service and install solar. The whole process went so smoothly and the staff were prompt and very helpful. Before we knew it, we had hot water again. It was brilliant.”

Minister for Housing and Public Works Sam O’Connor added, “This is one of dozens of households in this community alone who have benefited from the Stronger Homes Grant. It’s fantastic to hear the benefits for their home and future resilience. Applications are still open until the end of the year, and we want to get as many households that were impacted with inundation to apply as possible.”

The visit highlighted how the Stronger Homes Grant is helping Hinchinbrook residents rebuild safely, reduce future risk, and regain peace of mind after devastating floods.

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KAP Policy Grows Legs Under LNP Government

By Nick Dametto MP, Member for Hinchinbrook

Hinchinbrook MP and Katter’s Australian Party (KAP) Deputy Leader, Nick Dametto, has welcomed the announcement that ‘Bush Sentencing’ will be delivered as Circuit Breaker Sentencing by the Crisafulli Government.

Aligning with KAP policy, the State Government is set to create a court-ordered alternative to youth detention and is now seeking interested organisations to deliver this program.

The Government intends to operate Circuit Breaker Sentencing across two locations in North and South-East Queensland, accommodating up to 60 youth offenders for three to six months. The program’s focus will be on ‘structure, discipline, education, and rehabilitation.’ It is expected to commence in 2026.

Mr Dametto said he had been calling for Bush Sentencing to be implemented in Queensland since 2017, to deal with the scourge of youth crime and to act as a strong deterrent to offending by rehabilitating youth offenders through discipline, hard work and rural training.

“During the 2024 election campaign, the LNP picked up this policy and now seeks to introduce it as Circuit Breaker Sentencing,” Mr Dametto said.

“I am so proud that a policy that we spent years developing with correctional staff, youth workers and First Nations leaders is finally coming to fruition. This alternative sentencing method is designed to put distance between victims and offenders while utilising methods that have been proven to turn young lives around.

“Hard work and a bit of dirt under the fingernails never hurt anybody. If implemented correctly, this incarceration method will teach the value of hard work and responsibility in a bid to turn young offenders away from a life of crime.

“When developing our policy, it was made clear by those who have worked with similar kids that you need at least 12 months to turn their lives around. The first three months are needed to clean them up off the drugs and alcohol while getting their nutrition right. Once you have that sorted, you’ve got an opportunity to teach them something.

“We suggested a minimum of 6 months in our policy and if, after rigorous assessments against a number of criteria, it was determined that these kids were not ready to re-engage back into meaningful work, training or education, they would go on to serve a full 12 months. I hope that the government takes this into consideration before setting in stone how long these youth offenders will spend in this program.

“The revolving door of youth detention that these kids have become accustomed to at Cleveland Detention Centre must stop. Bush sentencing was designed to do that, now it’s up to the Youth Justice Minister to make sure that this policy delivers what Queenslanders have been asking for.

“We know there are many organisations out there who are more than capable of working in conjunction with the State Government to deliver this vital court-ordered sentencing alternative, and I encourage them to lodge their interest before the 9 October 2025 deadline. For more information or to register interest, visit www.youthjustice.qld.gov.au/circuitbreaker

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Empowering Children Through Play & Connection

Offering a plethora of occupational therapy services to make a difference in the lives of little ones across the northern end of the state, the experienced team at Naturally Kids Allied Health prides themselves on truly understanding and celebrating each child for who they are.

Naturally Kids Allied Health’s friendly clinic sits at 6/141 Ingham Road in West End, and the passionate team of dedicated Occupational Therapists, Allied Health Assistants, and Practice Manager. Tanya Bird support communities with a list of core services and additional programs.

One of the clinic’s core services is individual paediatric occupational therapy which can be delivered to children at home, school, daycare, or even in the park to ensure the child feels comfortable and gains the most out of each and every session.

“We take a neurodiversity-affirming, trauma-informed, play-based approach - we believe children develop best when they feel seen, valued, and empowered – play isn’t just something we use – it’s at the centre of what we do,” said Tanya.

“We’re a group of professionals who aren’t afraid to be playful - whether it’s jumping into a game of Monopoly Deal or getting involved in a messy sensory activity - because we know that’s how we connect and make therapy enjoyable.”

The clinic’s nature-based group therapy program, Joey’s Mob, and the Sense Rugby program for children aged 4 through to 12 who find supports challenging have also been loved by families for several years.

More recently, Naturally Kids have excitingly unveiled a Dungeons & Dragons group program to foster a fun, creative, role-playing experience to boost social interactions, encourage wild imaginations, build teamwork skills, and communication techniques!

“These new offerings give children more opportunities to grow their social-emotional skills and creativity within a safe and supportive group setting,” explained Tanya.

“Families tell us they value our flexibility, creativity, and genuine care. We go beyond traditional therapy by building confidence, connection, and joy - through one-on-one sessions, nature-based groups, and community programs like Sense Rugby and Dungeons & Dragons.”

To inquire about upcoming schedules fill out an enquiry form online at naturallykids.com.au/contact-us. To contact the team call 07 4440 5256 or by email hello@naturallykids.com.au.

"Naturally Kids and their wonderful staff have been a game changer for my teen. He goes from strength to strength with the support of amazing OT's. They were extremely helpful in accurately assessing his needs in his functional assessment as well. Thank you so much, guys."

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Hiya Hinchinbrookshire!

What an action-packed weekend! I hope everybody got out to Cardwell for at least a few hours for the Seafest. I went up for their Park Run and stayed to see the hot rods and classic cars roll into the foreshore. I couldn't stay for long, I had two other events to dash off to, but it looked like those who attended had an absolute blast.

There were so many amazingly talented riders at the Tropical North Showjumping finale on Saturday last week, and it always astounds me how high they can fly over those jumps; limits were definitely pushed for the horses and riders alike. They had to move from the arena to the oval at the showgrounds due to the sand being too deep, which was causing horses and riders to fall. Still, they pushed on and had a fantastic weekend of showjumping.

At the same time as the showjumping, the Hinchinbrook Sportfishing Club had their awards ceremony and it was amazing to hear about all the different types of fish you can catch in our abundant waters. I must find time to go fishing myself one of these weekends, I'm eager to see what's swimming about in my local area.

Victoria

Fun Fact: There is an estimated total of 292 fish species recorded in the Hinchinbrook fish habitat area. Across wetlands, creeks, rivers, mangroves, the reef and the open ocean, our little fishy friends are everywhere. Cast a line, who knows what you'll find?

UNITES COMMUNITY AND CELEBRATES LOCAL SPIRIT

The Hinchinbrook Festival of Events has officially launched this week, bringing a wave of excitement, connection, and celebration to the region from October through November 2025. This year's festival is more than just a calendar of eventsit is a heartfelt tribute to the resilience, strength, and spirit of the Hinchinbrook community.

This is a celebration of recovery built by the community, for the community, Mayor Jayo said.

The Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Tourism Inc. announces Hinchinbrook Festival of Events- Set to Launch in Hinchinbrook Shire A Celebration of Renewed Optimism - debuts 15 October 2025 to 27 November 2025. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

 leading cadet Kingsley Nip

By Victoria Velton

The Liddle family recently marked a major milestone in their remarkable journey in agriculture, travelling from north Queensland to Sydney for the launch of a book honouring winners of the Australian Small Business Awards.

Held at the Shangri-La Hotel with more than 350 guests, including the Shadow Minister for Small Business, the event celebrated past award recipients from across the nation. Among them were the Liddles, recognised for their achievements in the Agriculture category in 2007, 2010 and 2016. Roger Liddle was also named Entrepreneur of the Year in 2013 for his role in developing the highly successful liquid fertiliser, Liquaforce.

The Liddles, a 'Champion Family' at the book launch gala. Photo supplied

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