A major upgrade to the Reef Ranger is set to strengthen protection efforts across the Great Barrier Reef, following a $2.9 million refit delivered by the Australian and Queensland governments.

The vessel, a key asset for marine park operations since 2014, supports multi-day field trips, scientific research, compliance patrols and partnerships with Traditional Owners across remote reef and island locations.

The refit introduces a range of innovative, eco-friendly upgrades designed to improve efficiency while reducing environmental impact. Among the changes are new propulsion engines capable of running on oil derived from waste cooking oils, alongside a hybrid solar and battery power system to cut reliance on diesel.

Additional improvements, including a specialised silicone-based hull coating, are expected to reduce fuel use and emissions, allowing the vessel to operate more sustainably across its extensive patrol area.

Queensland Environment and Tourism Minister Andrew Powell said the vessel had long been central to reef operations.

“The Reef Ranger has carried rangers and researchers to some of the most iconic places in the Great Barrier Reef, places like Raine Island, Wuthara and Hinchinbrook, helping communities protect the reef we all care about,” he said.

With the latest upgrades now complete, the Reef Ranger will continue its critical role in safeguarding one of the world’s most important natural ecosystems.

‍

By Steve Whipps, Commander Qf14 Lucinda Coast Guard

A couple and their young child from Townsville got into a spot of bother last week when on the way back from Bramble Reef after a day’s fishing, they lost all steering on their alloy boat.

A radio call to Coast Guard Townsville resulted in the team at Coast Guard Lucinda being notified of the situation, and a volunteer rescue crew was activated. The rescue vessel “Snow Stafford”, manned by four crew members, and with a Radio Operator at the base, was launched in quick time and headed out to sea.

Thankfully the sea was calm, and the distressed vessel was quickly located about 15 kilometres northeast of Pelorus Island. A tow line was attached, the return trip was completed without incident, and three people were very glad to be safely ashore.

‍

Ingham Meals on Wheels is hitting the road in style, with a brand new vehicle set to support the volunteers who have long been the backbone of the service.

The new Mazda CX-5 was made possible through funding from the Herbert River RSL Sub Branch, purchased locally through Ingham Mazda, and finished with professional signage by Global Signage, showcasing a strong show of community support.

‍

“For more than four decades, Meals on Wheels volunteers in Ingham quietly used their own vehicles to ensure meals reached those in need,” Rodger Bow said.

‍

“Recognising the strain this placed on volunteers, the decision was made that it was time to provide a dedicated vehicle.”

Ingham Mazda’s Jenna Devietti said supporting the initiative was a natural fit. “We’re proud to be part of the Ingham community, so supporting organisations like Ingham Meals on Wheels is something that’s genuinely important to us,” she said. “The work they do goes far beyond delivering meals — they provide care, connection, and daily support.”

‍

‍

To ensure the vehicle remains on the road, Ingham Mazda has also committed to five years of free servicing. “We wanted our support to be practical and ongoing, rather than a one-time gesture,” Ms Devietti said.

Meals on Wheels President Rita Phillips said the donation was deeply appreciated. “At times the support that we receive is overwhelming,” she said. “Since 1983 volunteers have used their own vehicles at their own expense.”

‍

Ms Phillips said the new vehicle would ease pressure on volunteers while strengthening service delivery. “In the current economic time, this vehicle will not only assist the volunteers to continue deliveries, but also helps keep the connection of our clients to the community,” she said. “This vehicle will reduce use of the volunteers’ vehicles, which includes longer runs that include Halifax and the beaches.”

‍

“Our new Mazda will provide continuity of deliveries to all who rely on Ingham Meals on Wheels.”

‍

While the vehicle is new, the heart of the service remains unchanged. “We are so privileged to live in a community with such generosity, not only monetarily, but also selflessly volunteering their valuable time,” Ms Phillips said. “All members of our community should be proud to live in the Herbert River Valley.”

‍

Landholders across the Cassowary Coast are set to receive targeted financial relief, with the State Government announcing a 12-month land rent deferral for those impacted by recent flooding and extreme weather.

The Crisafulli Government confirmed the measure will automatically apply to eligible state land leaseholders affected by the North Queensland monsoon trough, ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji, and associated severe weather events.

The relief is expected to support a broad cross-section of the Cassowary Coast community, including primary producers, residents and local businesses still recovering from the impacts of heavy rainfall and flooding earlier this year.

Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Dale Last said the additional support recognises the ongoing challenges faced by regional communities.

“We know North and Central Queenslanders have endured a tough start to the year with the monsoon trough, flooding and ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji,” Minister Last said.

“The Crisafulli Government has been on the ground listening and that’s why we are delivering targeted support through automatic land rent deferral across almost 3,000 tenures.

“This is about supporting our farmers and regional Queenslanders by giving them time to focus on their recovery and get their operations back on track.

“We’re focused on helping Queenslanders recover faster and rebuild stronger for the future.”

While the measure extends across multiple regions, the inclusion of the Cassowary Coast highlights the significant local impact of recent weather events, which disrupted businesses, agriculture and daily life throughout the area.

The 12-month deferral is designed to provide immediate financial breathing room, allowing affected leaseholders to focus on recovery efforts without the added burden of land rent payments. The support will be automatically applied, meaning eligible landholders in the Cassowary Coast will not need to submit an application.

The announcement comes as recovery efforts continue across the region, with authorities monitoring ongoing conditions and working alongside communities to support rebuilding.

Further disaster assistance is expected to follow as Queensland continues its recovery from a challenging start to the year.

‍

*Stock image from https://www.pexels.com/photo/close-up-shot-of-australian-dollar-4359063/

When you first meet me, I might come across as big and bold but give me a few minutes and I’ll happily call you my friend, especially if you have treats. My Foster Mum says I can be “a bit of a boof” when I’m excited, because of that, I would be too much for small children, even though I always mean well.

‍

I’m pretty good on the lead, but I prefer walking in quiet environments. When there’s too much happening around me, I’m not quite sure what to focus on. More lead training will help me become my best walking self. I love learning new things, especially when treats are involved. I’m very food motivated... maybe a little too motivated. I could be prone to overeating if left to my own devices, but at the moment I have a stunning figure, even if I say so myself.

‍

I’m working hard on my manners and getting better at waiting for my food and taking treats gently from your hand. I just need my human to be consistent in helping me remember what I’ve learned. I’m looking for someone patient, kind, and ready to help me build confidence as I continue to grow. If that sounds like you, I’d love to meet you and see if we’re meant to be.

‍

If you’re interested in meeting me, please complete an animal enquiry form at: www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html

‍

Included in adoption fee of $600 desexed, micro-chipped, up to date vaccinations, flea/tick/intestinal worm treated & on heartworm preventative or Proheart.

‍

DOB: 22/06/2024
Sex: Male
Breed: American Bulldog
Colour: White, black spots
Kid friendly: No
Cat Friendly: Untested
Other dogs: Yes
Fences: 5ft
BIN: BIN0000268254643

‍

Local young people will have the chance to dive into the world of technology and creativity next month, with a FREE hands‑on workshop being held at the Hinchinbrook Shire Library on Friday 10 April.

The workshop will take participants into the fast‑growing field of drone technology.  

Facilitated by regional STEM specialists Red Dirt Robotics, the Drone and Programming Workshop will introduce attendees to the basic principles of flight, safe operation and digital control.

Young people aged 9 to 15 will have the opportunity to experiment with simple coding tasks that allow drones to perform movements and complete flight challenges.  

Places are still available for this workshop!

The workshop is free to attend and aims to provide regional students with access to high‑quality STEM learning opportunities. The session will run from 10:00am to 12:00pm on 10 April 2026.

Places are limited and registrations are essential.

Bookings can be made by contacting the Hinchinbrook Shire Library team on 07 4776 4614 or visiting https://tickets.hinchinbrooktickets.com.au/outlet/event/0aaa16e3-42d1-48cb-bee0-1756277f5c72?utm_source=Localtix&utm_medium=Website%20to%20register

The program is supported by the Department of Customer Services, Open Data and Small and Family Business.

‍

Hinchinbrook Shire Council advises that several Council facilities will be closed during the Easter public holiday period from Friday 3 April to Monday 6 April 2026, inclusive.

The following facilities will be closed:

• Lannercost Street Office

• Martin Street Works Depot

• Water and Sewerage Depot

• Hinchinbrook Shire Library

• TYTO Regional Art Gallery

• Halifax Library Sub-Branch

• Halifax Resource Recovery Centre

Residents are encouraged to plan accordingly during this period until normal operating hours resume.

Warrens Hill Landfill and Resource Recovery Centre and kerbside waste collection will continue as normal and visit www.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au/water-waste-and-roads/waste-and-recycling/domestic-waste-collection/ for more information.

For urgent inquiries over this period call Council’s customer service centre on (07) 4776 4600.

‍

Hinchinbrook Shire Council advises that a full road closure will be in place on Mount Fox Road on Thursday 2 April 2026, to allow for scheduled bitumen and associated road works.

Motorists are advised of the following traffic conditions:

• Full road closure: 8:00 am – 3:00 pm on Thursday 2 April 2026 (no through access)

• Up to 30-minute delays expected: 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm on Thursday 2 April 2026

Ongoing Road Works Period

To safely carry out these works, Mount Fox Road is currently closed, to 15 June 2026 between 8:00am and 3:00pm, Monday to Friday (weather permitting).

The road will remain open outside these hours, including weekends and public holidays. Mount Fox Road will also remain open over the Easter long weekend, including Good Friday, Easter Saturday, Easter Sunday and Easter Monday. The following traffic conditions will apply for the remainder of the construction period:

• Expect delays of up to 30 minutes

• Follow all traffic signage and obey speed limits

• Consider alternative travel times to minimise inconvenience

Council acknowledges the inconvenience these works may cause and sincerely thanks the community for its patience and understanding as we deliver important improvements to this transport corridor.  

These works include resilience building, remediation activities, and slope stabilisation efforts. These works are being delivered under the joint Commonwealth–State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) in association with Hinchinbrook Shire Council.

Council will continue to keep the community informed as the project progresses. Contact Council’s Customer Service Centre on (07) 4776 4600 or visit www.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au/water-waste-and-roads/roads-and-public-works/major-projects/mount-fox-road-and-wallaman-falls-road-remediation/  for more information.

‍

Primary producers across the Hinchinbrook and Cassowary Coast regions are being urged to take advantage of disaster recovery grants of up to $75,000, aimed at helping farmers rebuild after severe weather events earlier this year.

Delivered through the jointly funded Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), the grants are supporting those impacted by the North and Far North Tropical Low, which brought widespread flooding and damage across both regions.

For local growers and producers, the funding offers practical assistance to restore operations, with grants able to be used for clean-up, repairing infrastructure, replacing fencing, replanting crops and covering additional labour costs. The support is particularly important in regions where agriculture underpins local economies and communities.

Federal Emergency Management Minister Kristy McBain said the funding would play a key role in recovery.

“These grants are a lifeline for primary producers who have faced significant weather events over the past year,” Minister McBain said.

Queensland Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett said the Government remained committed to helping rural communities rebuild.

“We understand the immense challenges faced by our primary producers, and we’re ensuring they have the time and resources they need to rebuild their livelihoods,” he said.

Producers in Hinchinbrook and the Cassowary Coast are encouraged to check their eligibility and apply through the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority, with additional assistance available from Industry Recovery and Resilience Officers to guide applicants through the process.

‍

Applications and more information can be found here: https://statements.qld.gov.au/statements/104592

‍

For the latest disaster information, all Queenslanders can visit www.disaster.qld.gov.au, with around-the-clock support also available via the Queensland Community Recovery Hotline on 1800 173 349.

‍

UNDERSTANDING COUNCIL’S BUDGET AND THE CHOICES WE MUST MAKE

Council has now begun preparing the 2026-27 Budget, which must be adopted before 1 July 2026. Recent discussion around capital works has shown there is genuine interest in how Council sets priorities and also some understandable confusion about how the budget process works. This column is about lifting the lid on that process.

The annual budget is not just a financial document; it is how Council authorises every service it delivers and every dollar it spends. It determines what gets maintained, what gets renewed, what can be built, and just as importantly, what has to wait.

The very purpose of local government is to deliver services to community.  

Services that communities need to function on a daily basis and to be sustainable in the long term.  

Council provides town planning, environmental health, animal management, pest and weed control, roads and footpaths, street lighting, waste and recycling, stormwater drainage, parks and sporting fields, swimming pools, community halls, cemeteries, libraries, cultural facilities, coastal care, food safety inspections, and water and sewerage services. These are not abstract concepts, they are the everyday services that keep the community functioning.

To deliver those services, Council must also maintain significant assets: roads, bridges, buildings, pools, water treatment facilities and sewerage infrastructure. These assets age from the moment they are built, and they requireongoing maintenance and eventual replacement.

That is why financial sustainability matters. Legislation requires Council to plan not just for the year ahead, but for the long term ensuring we can maintain infrastructure and continue delivering services well into the future.

We do this through Asset Management Plans, which assess the condition of every major asset, identify maintenance needs, and set out when components will need replacement and at what cost. These plans are reviewed continuously and sit at the centre of our budgeting decisions.

While Council receives some funding from State and Federal Governments, most services are funded through rates paid by the community. And in the current economic climate — with rising interest rates, increasing fuel prices, higher construction and import costs, and ongoing global uncertainty — affordability has never been more important.

That is why every budget comes down to balancing needs versus wants. Essential services like water, sewerage, roads, drainage and libraries must always come first. Projects that enhance lifestyle and amenity are important, but they must be timed responsibly and funded in a way the community can afford.

Every decision involves trade‑offs. If we overreach, the only alternatives are cutting services or sharply increasing rates, neither of which are acceptable outcomes.

Our job is to manage what we have well, protect essential services, and carefully position Council for future growth but responsibly, sustainably, and with the community firmly front of mind.

‍

Challenging Times – How Are We Fairing?

In my January column, I spoke about the New Year as a great time to reflect and re‑evaluate, and I shared my optimism about the opportunities ahead for Hinchinbrook. I also noted that the first quarter of the year is traditionally a quieter economic period. Against that backdrop, the unexpected and uplifting experience of hosting the Tones and I concert locally provided a unique opportunity for our community to come together, rise to the occasion, and celebrate.

It is difficult to fully express the significant impact Toni Watson and her team had on our community through the decision to perform in our Shire. Not only did Tones and I deliver an outstanding concert, she was also exceptionally generous with the time she spent engaging with the public.  

The excitement and anticipation leading up to the event gave many local business owners and residents something positive to focus on, helping us look beyond challenges and celebrate what we could achieve together.

How quickly the world has changed in recent weeks, with international events rapidly refocusing our attention.  

Today’s economic conditions may feel uncertain — and at times even overwhelming — but they can also carry something quietly powerful: an opportunity for resilience, creativity, and renewal.

During the COVID period, when our sense of normality was suddenly disrupted, many people rediscovered what truly mattered. Communities revived their resourcefulness, and individuals tapped into strengths they didn’t know they had.  

History shows that some of the most meaningful innovations and life changes are often born not in comfort, but in challenge.

These moments invite a shift in perspective. Instead of focusing on limitations, we can look for areas of possibility. Some may choose to learn new skills, explore alternative income streams, or re‑evaluate their priorities. Small, intentional steps — saving a little more, spending more mindfully, or supporting local businesses — can create a ripple effect that strengthens individuals and communities alike.

This is also a time to practise patience with ourselves and with others. Progress may feel slower and plans may need adjusting, but that does not mean growth has stopped, it may simply be taking a different path. Importantly, difficult economic periods remind us that we are not alone. They offer opportunities to collaborate, connect, and support one another in ways that may not occur during easier times.

For now, the most powerful approach is to stay grounded, adaptable, and hopeful. Focus on what you can control, celebrate small wins, and keep moving forward. Even in challenging conditions, growth is still happening and brighter days are being built, step by step.

‍

Access to healthcare in Hinchinbrook should not depend on whether healthcare workers can find a place to live, but right now, it does.

Member for Hinchinbrook, Wayde Chiesa MP, said workforce accommodation remains one of the biggest barriers to strengthening health services at Ingham Hospital, with the issue long backed by the local community.

“Health services cannot grow without secure, appropriate accommodation for staff,” Mr Chiesa said.

“Right now, there are just 17 onsite beds available and that’s simply not enough to support the doctors, nurses, and healthcare workers our region relies on every day.”

Mr Chiesa said in regional communities, access to housing is often the deciding factor in whether healthcare workers choose to come, stay, or leave.

“It’s simple: no accommodation means no workforce, and no workforce means no healthcare,” he said.

The Queensland Government has proposed to deliver 12 new staff accommodation units at Ingham Hospital, replacing outdated housing and making better use of the existing site.

Mr Chiesa welcomed the proposal as a positive step.

“Our community depends on a strong and stable health workforce, and that starts with making sure staff have suitable places to live.”

Mr Chiesa said the push for additional accommodation reflects strong grassroots advocacy from across the community.

“At the end of the day, this isn’t about buildings, it’s about ensuring our community has access to the healthcare it deserves.”

‍

Locals can now enjoy even greater convenience when stocking up on quality meats, with Halifax Meats introducing free delivery on all value packs.

Designed to suit households of all sizes, Halifax Meats’ value packs offer a wide range of options, making it easy to find the right mix of cuts for any occasion. From smaller grill packs ideal for couples and families, through to generous XXL Carnivore and Freezer Filler packs, there is something to suit every appetite and budget.

For those looking for something a little more tailored, the team has also created specialty packs inspired by the region, including the popular Hinchinbrook and Palm Island selections. Customers can also opt for single-protein packs, with Sides of Beef, Pork, and Lamb Packs available for those wanting to stock up on a particular favourite.

Entertaining is also made simple with the Party and Entertainers packs, filled with barbecue-ready cuts like chops and cutlets, along with ready-to-enjoy smallgoods such as salami and beersticks. With free delivery now available, getting these packs from the butcher to your doorstep, out to the backyard barbeque has never been easier.

Halifax Meats has built a strong reputation for quality products, competitive pricing, and friendly service. The business continues to prepare fresh grass-fed Tableland beef in-store each week, ensuring an authentic flavour customers have come to rely on.

In addition to its value packs, Halifax Meats offers a broad selection of meats including goat, duck, turkey, quail, kangaroo, and a wide range of offal and game. Their well-known Hinchinbrook smallgoods are all handmade, smoked, and cooked in-house, with favourites like bacon, kabanas, and their signature ham available year-round.

Now with free delivery, Halifax Meats is making it easier than ever for locals to enjoy premium products at home.

As the end of financial year (EOFY) approaches, it’s an important time for local business owners to take stock and plan ahead. While many see June 30 as a deadline, it’s actually one of the best opportunities to review your position and make small adjustments that can have a meaningful impact.

Tax planning is a critical part of running a business, but too often it’s left until the last minute or even after June 30, when options are limited. By taking action in the lead-up to EOFY, business owners can better manage cash flow, make the most of deductions, and avoid surprises.

‍

Steps taken early can make a big difference. Whether it’s reviewing expenses, planning for commitments, or checking your structure, a bit of forward thinking now can set you up well for the year ahead.

‍

EOFY doesn’t need to be stressful, it can be a chance to maximise opportunities.

‍

I created Build With B to make fitness feel simpler, more realistic, and something you can actually enjoy. So many people feel like they have to be “all in” or perfectly consistent to see results - but that’s not real life.

Build With B is for anyone who wants to feel stronger, more confident, and more comfortable in their own skin!

‍

I understand how busy and unpredictable life can be. That’s why my approach focuses on building habits that fit into your routine, not take it over. Think structured training, easy-to-follow nutrition, and support that keeps you accountable without the pressure.

‍

If you’ve been wanting to start but don’t know where to begin, this is your sign. The app is there to guide you, one step at a time.

‍

*Stock image from https://dupephotos.com/results?search=fitness&content=e7c44ac0-50ab-4c6f-9d12-89d161eb929a

‍