This Mother’s Day, we pause to celebrate the incredible women who shape our lives with their love, care, and endless support. Whether they are mothers, grandmothers, stepmothers, or motherly figures, these special women deserve to be recognised for everything they do, both the little things and the big sacrifices made without hesitation.

Mother’s Day is more than just cards and flowers. It’s a chance to say "thank you" for the advice shared over countless cups of tea, the words of encouragement when things get tough, and the quiet strength that keeps families together. It’s about celebrating those warm memories and the simple moments that mean the most.

Whether you're planning a family lunch, sending a heartfelt gift, or simply picking up the phone for a long chat, the most important part is letting Mum know just how much she’s appreciated. A handwritten note, a small act of kindness, or time spent together can mean more than the grandest gesture.

Shopping locally is another great way to show love this Mother’s Day. Local businesses offer beautiful, thoughtful gifts and experiences, and every purchase helps strengthen the community, something Mum would no doubt be proud of.

No matter how you choose to celebrate, take the time to remind the mother figures in your life just how valued and loved they are. After all, where would we be without them?

To all the mums and mother figures — we thank you, we celebrate you, and we wish you a very happy upcoming Mother’s Day.

ANZAC Day Commemorations 2025
Congratulations Hinchinbrook. Give yourselves a big pat on the back for the overwhelming display of support of our Anzac Day remembrance services. All services at Ingham, Halifax and Forrest Beach were very well attended, clearly evidencing that our district does not and will not forget the sacrifices of so many who fought and still fight for our country.

I am very proud of the way our community, and in particular the children of our district, and the very young children whom attended the dawn service at Ingham I might add, paid honour to the memory of all those gallant men and women who sacrificed their lives in service to their country.

I would like to thank our community for your participation and observance of our Anzac tradition. Thank you to each and everyone of you involved in arrangements for the services throughout the district, and a special mention and thanks again to our schools and the teachers of each school who marshalled and marched with all the children, making the day for our diggers.

Future generations need to be reminded that the freedom we so enjoy and the happiness that such freedom brings in our lives came at a cost and the children of today are the people who will continue to carry on that memory for our future generations to come.

Exceptional Disaster Assistance Recovery Grant
After much lobbying and advocacy regarding the effects on small business, inconsequence of the deenergising of the Ingham substation, the Federal and State Governments have now announced that they will look to provide financial support to businesses affected by way of an exceptional disaster assistance recovery grant for perishable stock. The grant will provide financial support to small and family businesses in Ingham and surrounding areas that lost power for five consecutive days or more due to the deenergising of the Ingham substation in February 2025.

The decision recognises the particular circumstances that affected our district, the eligibility criteria initially specifying that only premises that suffered flood water penetration were eligible for disaster recovery assistance grants. Many businesses suffered significant loss of stored product because of power failure, as against water inundation, as a direct result of water inundation at the substation, through no fault of their own and that circumstance has now been accepted.

I would like to thank our State Minister for Small and Family Business Steven Minnikin MP and the Queensland Reconstruction Authority on appreciating the special circumstance and concerns raised on the matter and for advocating on Council's behalf with the Australian Federal Government to assist our business recovery program.

Carnations, with their beautiful frilled blooms and rich history in the language of flowers, are a wonderful addition to any home garden. Symbolising love, admiration, and affection, they are not only meaningful but also surprisingly easy to grow with a little care.

Choosing the Right Spot: Carnations thrive best in full sun. Choose a location in your garden that gets at least 4–6 hours of direct sunlight each day. They prefer well-drained soil as too much moisture around the roots can lead to rot, so raised beds or sandy soils work particularly well.

Planting Tips: Seed should be planted in cooler temperatures so now is perfect! If transplanting seedlings, space them about 20–30cm apart to give each plant room to flourish. Gently firm the soil around the roots and water lightly.

Caring for Carnations: Water carnations moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly. Overwatering is one of the most common mistakes. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser once a month during the growing season to encourage healthy blooms. Removing spent flowers will keep the plants looking tidy and encourage more flowering throughout the season.

A Lasting Bloom: Carnations are prized not only for their beauty in the garden but also for their long vase life when cut. Their sturdy stems and vibrant colours make them a favourite for bouquets, particularly around Mother’s Day when pink carnations — symbols of a mother's love — are in full demand. With a little sunlight and care, carnations will reward you with colour, fragrance, and classic charm season after season, you could even press them to keep them forever.

A fantastic show of community spirit saw 56 locals lace up their shoes for a 5km Charity Walk over the weekend, raising $840 for the Ingham Palliative Care Unit.

The track was organised by Sarah, of Fitness by Sarah, the event drew walkers of all ages, finishing with coffees and plenty of smiles. Local businesses got behind the cause, with Boss Embossers providing sweet treats, I Love Boutique in Ingham donating a raffle prize which was won by Jenna Juide, and JK's Deli keeping everyone refreshed and refuelled in the air-conditioning post-walk.

The atmosphere was full of energy as walkers completed the track, celebrating both the achievement and the opportunity to support an essential local service. Events like these highlight the strong connections within the Hinchinbrook community, with every step making a difference.

Attention is already turning to the next Charity Walk on June 29, where efforts will support the Stone River CWA Branch. Known for their hard-working spirit and community events, the Stone River CWA has several activities planned for the year, with funds raised helping them continue their valuable work. With strong momentum and local support, the next walk promises to be another vibrant and meaningful day!

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Hold onto your fishing rods because the much-loved Taylors Beach Family Fishing Tournament will make its 2025 debut this May! Promising another action-packed weekend of fun, friendly competition, and fantastic prizes for the whole family, the event will run from the 23rd until the 25th of May and anticipation has already begun building!

Held at Progress Park in Taylors Beach, the three-day event is set to reel in locals and visitors alike from Friday to Sunday, with over $30,000 in prizes up for grabs, including $5,000 in Garmin Dollars awarded through the popular Lucky Token Draws.

The best part? You don’t even need to catch a fish to win! Simply purchase an entry ticket, turn up and register to collect your Angler ID Token, and be present at the draws to be in the running for major prizes.

The tournament features over 50 prizes across multiple categories, covering male and female anglers in Juniors Under 10, Juniors 10–15, and Adults 16 and over. With odds like that, you won’t want to miss your shot!

A fully licensed bar will be operating on site, and there’ll be plenty of tasty food available throughout the weekend. Fuel up with sausage sandwiches, beef burgers, and on Sunday morning, brilliant bacon and egg burgers. A range of beverages will be on offer including soft drinks (sugar-free options available), water, wines, beer, and UDLs.

Searching for a fantastic family night out? Saturday evening will bring the community together for raffles, auctions, and great company under the stars making for a weekend to remember.

To view the full program, rules, accommodation options, prize categories, and important entry information, visit the official event page and grab your tickets now from https://tickets.hinchinbrooktickets.com.au/outlet/event/ae01e0f7-cd3d-4616-9281-5263c7b9bf17.

Don’t miss your chance to cast a line, catch a prize, and create unforgettable memories at the Taylors Beach Family Fishing Tournament 2025!

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What: Taylors Beach Family Fishing Tournament
When: 23rd to the 25th of May
Where: Progress Park, Taylors Beach

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2024's event saw plenty of locals and travellers reel in waves of great catches! (Photo Source: Facebook)
The excitement continues to build ahead of 2025's event... save the date! (Photo Source: Facebook)

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Registrations are now open for one of the Burdekin’s most iconic events, and the excitement is building! The renowned Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships will take place on the 31st of May as part of the Sweet Days, Hot Nights Festival. This event continues to attract visitors from across the state and beyond, and cane farmers from the Hinchinbrook Shire are encouraged to take part.

The Championships are a true celebration of the Burdekin’s cane farming heritage, showcasing the strength, skill, and determination of the region's competitors. Whether experienced cane cutters or first-timers eager to take on the challenge, the event welcomes all participants.

Held at a historic cane paddock in Home Hill, this event is more than just a competition—it’s a celebration of the Burdekin community, its culture, and the hardworking spirit that defines it.

There are multiple competition categories available, including the Under 35 Years Competition, 35 – 55 Years Competition, Over 55 Years Competition, Ladies Cup, Ladies Novice, Corporate Challenge (3 teams of 4), Cut, Top and Load Relay (4 teams of 4), and the prestigious Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships Final.

With plenty of action to keep the crowd captivated, this day is set to be a highlight of the Sweet Days, Hot Nights Festival. Gates open at 10:30am, with food stalls, entertainment, and activities for the whole family throughout the day.

To register, visit www.sweetdayshotnights.com.au, follow the links to the Hand Cane Cutting Championships, and don’t miss the chance to be part of something special to the Burdekin community.

The organisers look forward to seeing participants from Hinchinbrook join in the excitement!

WHAT: Sweet Days, Hot Nights Festival
WHEN: 30-31 May
WHERE: Burdekin

As we approach ANZAC Day 2025, I would like to take this opportunity to reflect on the courage, sacrifice, and enduring spirit of our servicemen and women.

It is a time when Australians and New Zealanders unite to honour not only the original ANZACs who landed at Gallipoli over a century ago, but all who have worn our nations’ uniforms in times of war, conflict, peacekeeping, and humanitarian missions.

Their bravery and loyal sense of duty continue to inspire us and form a cornerstone of our national identity.

In Hinchinbrook, ANZAC Day holds a special significance. Our community has a rich history of military service, and the local commemorations are a testament to the respect and gratitude we hold for our defence personnel.

From the stillness of the dawn services to the marching parades, every gathering no matter the size, is filled with pride. Schools, RSLs, local emergency services, and community groups come together each year to march, lay wreaths, and pay tribute to those who gave everything for us.

It’s important that as we remember those who fought for our freedom, we also recognise the contribution of the families and communities that supported them. War and conflict does not just impact on those who serve, but also on the families and loved ones left behind. Lest we forget.

Good Morning Hinchinbrook,

I hope you’ve had a wonderful Easter holiday with family and friends – I know I certainly did! I brought my mum and son to town, and they had a great time hanging out at the playparks, eating at local cafes, and swimming in the pool at our accommodation.

This was my first time back in Ingham since the floods. Although I felt connected to the event through our newspaper coverage, local relationships, and, of course, helping manage the welfare of our local staff, this was the first time I had actually ‘hit the ground’ myself.

It was heartwarming to see things reasonably back to normal, and I’m sure it has taken an incredible effort from everyone to get to this point. As many of you will know, our newspaper was only 10 weeks old when the floods hit, and we certainly felt the full impact on our small publication. I want to say a huge thank you to the Council for supporting the newspaper throughout the event, and to the incredible local businesses that continued to advertise with us, despite the hardships they were undoubtedly facing.

Without these partnerships, we wouldn’t be able to produce this lovely local paper, so please show your support by reading their ads, shopping at their businesses, and supporting them, as they are supporting our community.

While I was in town, I met with Deputy Mayor Mary Brown, who emphasised that the most important message right now is to reassure the rest of Queensland that the region is open for business. With that in mind, we’ll be launching some promotional articles across all four of our papers in the coming weeks, aiming to attract more visitors to shop local and explore the area.

Additionally, our talented Sales Account Manager, Sherie Hensler-Adams, is excited to launch our glossy travel publication in the region this month. Printing 15,000 copies every eight weeks, Tripping Magazine has been running for over 10 years and is available for free at tourist hotspots from Mackay to the Whitsundays, Burdekin, Townsville, and now... Hinchinbrook.

If you’d like more information about how you can be part of a brand-new dedicated Hinchinbrook section of Tripping Magazine, please reach out directly to Sherie – her contact number is listed next to this column.

Rach

Quote of the Week: “A winner is a dreamer who never gives up.” (Nelson Mandela)

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Home improvements can be a rewarding investment, but they can also come with a hefty price tag. Fortunately, with a bit of planning, you can achieve your dream home without breaking the bank.

Here are some essential tips for budgeting home improvements effectively:

- Prioritise Your Projects:
Start by determining which improvements will provide the most value to your home and your lifestyle. Tackle the essential repairs first, like fixing plumbing or updating worn-out electrical systems, then move on to cosmetic changes like painting or landscaping.

- Create a Detailed Budget:
Set a realistic budget that includes a buffer for unexpected costs. Break down your budget by materials, labour, and any permits you may need. A detailed plan will prevent you from overspending and allow you to stay on track.

- DIY When Possible:
If you’re handy, taking on some of the work yourself can save a lot of money. Tasks like painting, landscaping, or installing basic fixtures are often manageable for homeowners with basic skills. Just be realistic about your abilities to avoid costly mistakes.

- Shop for Deals:
Look for sales or discounted materials, and consider purchasing second-hand items for furniture or fixtures. Many home improvement stores offer seasonal discounts, so planning your project during a sale can yield significant savings.

- Tiling Tip:
When tiling, choose a timeless style and purchase tiles in bulk. Often, ordering extra tiles upfront can save you money on per-tile costs. Additionally, opting for porcelain or ceramic tiles, which are durable yet affordable, can stretch your budget further.

By planning wisely and prioritising, you can make the most of your home improvement budget.

by Victoria Velton

Ingham’s 2024 Showgirl, Amanda Way, is heading to Tully to represent her community at the sub-chamber finals, a key step on the road to the prestigious finals at Brisbane’s EKKA. While Amanda was the sole entrant in last year’s Ingham Showgirl competition, her commitment to the role has been anything but minimal.

“I sort of knew I was already selected to represent Ingham, because at the show last year I was the only one that entered,” Amanda said. “So we didn't get to run a local competition, unfortunately, but that is ultimately the goal. So, at the Show last year, I got sashed as the 2024 Ingham Showgirl, and with that, I knew that I would be representing Ingham at the sub-chamber finals.”

The time between being sashed locally and stepping onto the sub-chamber stage is spent learning the ins and outs of how shows operate and how Showgirls can support their local communities as Amanda explains “You have about eight months to understand the show, go to show meetings, and get a bit more information before going to the sub-chamber finals.” This is to give the Showgirl time to engage with the community and the event itself.

As part of her role, Amanda has been instrumental in creating new traditions that connect the younger generation to Ingham’s agricultural roots.

“For the Showgirl, you’re responsible for organising the next competition and promoting it, but you also get to represent your community and help shape the future of the show,” she said.

“We started getting the tissue culture cane planted in the schools and the childcare, including where I work at St Mary MacKillop Childcare. That allows the kids to then grow, cut, and enter cane into the show." And the project has not only engaged children, but their families as well.

“I’ve had kindergarten kids go home and demand their parents to enter their farms' cane,” she laughed. “We’ve had fathers say, ‘It’s your fault, I’m digging out cane!’ But I always say, ‘If it wasn’t for you, we wouldn’t have a cane section at all!’ And that’s one of the biggest parts of our show, the cane display.”

Amanda’s own connection to the show runs deep, recalling that, "Growing up, I have always gone to the show. It's one of the only large events Ingham has, so when it does come around, you make the effort to go and support it, because without the support, there's not going to be a show any more."

If Amanda wins in Tully, she will go on to represent all of North Queensland at the finals held at the iconic EKKA in Brisbane, she hopes to win saying, “I’ve never been to the EKKA. That would just top the whole experience off.”

Still, she balances her Showgirl duties with full-time university and full-time work, it hasn’t been easy, but Amanda is determined.

And if she wins it all?

“That would be amazing. It would mean everything to me. To be a voice for all things ‘show’, to empower women, and to grow the community. Getting young children involved and helping people understand the value of the Show, that’s what I’d want to focus on.”

Amanda Way is not only wearing the sash, she’s carrying the spirit of Ingham with her, good luck Amanda at the sub-chamber finals!

Australian plague locusts are an endemic pest that threatens our agricultural industry, devastating crops, and causing losses of up to $30 million.

By harnessing cutting edge science, experts can forecast locust outbreaks with greater accuracy, helping mitigate economic impacts.

The Australian Plague Locust Commission (APLC) uses advanced analytics to improve early detection and rapid response. However, forecasting locust populations is challenging.

The APLC has been developing a simulation model to predict locust population dynamics across their entire range. This model predicts the development, survival, and behaviour of locusts across all life stages: eggs, nymphs, and adults.

However, locusts inhabit a vast range of more than 2 million square kilometres, so deploying the model is challenging. Field surveys alone cannot provide enough coverage to initialise the model.

But artificial intelligence is changing the game. The APLC has partnered with the Centre of Excellence for Biosecurity Risk Analysis (CEBRA) to develop a new AI-driven model. The machine learning algorithms developed have incorporated 37 years of locust data with high-resolution weather, vegetation, and soil records to generate more accurate short-term forecasts (up to 90%).

These AI models will not only initialise the population dynamics model but also enhance field survey targeting, leading to more reliable on-the-ground surveillance. Additionally, they will support better planning and resource allocation.

Thanks to a growing ecosystem of models, the APLC is now better equipped to predict locust populations, making it easier to forecast their changes in response to Australia's highly variable climate. This will enable governments and industry to prepare and respond more effectively.

The APLC plans to integrate this AI-driven forecasting system into a new online data dashboard. This will further support enhanced locust predictions, enable real-time monitoring, and improve response strategies.

Reform of global agricultural subsidies and tariffs at the World Trade Organization would support better environmental and food security outcomes, according to the latest ABARES Insights paper.

Executive Director of ABARES, Dr Jared Greenville, said taxpayers and consumers bear the brunt of hundreds of billions of dollars spent every year on agricultural support policies that inadvertently create adverse environmental impacts.

“Some forms of agricultural support distort production decisions in a way that encourages excess production and the use of inputs above and beyond what the market demands,” Dr Jared Greenville said.

“This excess can lead to environmental harm in the form of more emissions and more chemical use.”

The most environmentally harmful agricultural support policies, such as tariffs, price floors and payments linked to agricultural inputs and production, cost taxpayers and consumers around the world US$472 billion a year, between 2019 to 2023. This figure climbs to US$671 billion a year when export restrictions and other market price-deflating policies are included.

Europe and Asia provided the most environmentally harmful support as a share of farm income between 2019 and 2023. Australia and New Zealand recorded some of the lowest levels.

The report, Addressing Environmental Harm: Reforming Agricultural Support, details how removing and redirecting environmentally harmful support has the capacity to improve environmental outcomes.

Dr Greenville said the report details that “what is good for efficient global agricultural production is also good for the environment”.

“It is possible to minimise the environmental impacts of agriculture without compromising food security,” he said.

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Hinchinbrook’s Kylee Frankee has been awarded the Exceptional Tradeswoman, Technician, and Operator Award at the 2025 BMA Mitsubishi Alliance Queensland Resources Council (QRC) and Women in Mining and Resources Queensland (WIMARQ) Awards. With 16 years of experience as an Electrical and Instrument Technician, Kylee has earned a reputation for her expertise, leadership, and dedication to supporting apprentices and advocating for mental health in the workplace. A passionate mentor, she also champions programs for women and Indigenous youth in the resources sector. Proudly representing Hinchinbrook, Kylee’s achievement highlights the power of small communities producing big talent.

Local Tradie Wins Resource Industry Award

Hinchinbrook was proudly represented at the 2025 BMA Mitsubishi Alliance Queensland Resources Council (QRC) and Women in Mining and Resources Queensland (WIMARQ) Awards, as Ingham local Kylee Frankee was honoured for her outstanding contribution to the resources sector.

Kylee took home the Exceptional Tradeswoman, Technician, and Operator Award, standing out in a wide field of nominees. With 16 years of industry experience, she has built a strong reputation as a highly skilled Electrical and Instrument Technician, as well as a respected mentor and leader in her field.

Her influence goes well beyond her technical expertise. Kylee is a passionate advocate for mental health in the workplace, supports apprentices through hands-on training and personal development, and actively promotes leadership among her peers. She is also a proud supporter of programs like the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA) and the Australian Indigenous Education Foundation, helping to inspire and guide the next generation of tradespeople, particularly women and Indigenous youth, toward rewarding careers in the resources sector.

Member for Hinchinbrook, Nick Dametto MP, praised Kylee’s achievement, describing it as a strong reflection of the region’s values.

“As the State Member for Hinchinbrook, I speak on behalf of the entire electorate when I say we are incredibly proud of Kylee,” Mr Dametto said.

“It was an honour to attend the event, witness Kylee’s passion and professionalism firsthand, and meet so many other inspiring women who are driving change and innovation in the industry.”

Miss Frankee said she felt truly humbled to be recognised.

“If you’d told my younger self this was possible, I’m not sure she would’ve believed it,” she said.

“I’m proud of my journey with South32, and prouder still to represent the Hinchinbrook Shire. It’s a reminder that big things can come from small places. Growing up in a small regional town shaped who I am, and I hope this moment shows other young girls from communities like ours that they can build strong, successful careers in these industries.’”

A heartfelt round of applause goes out to the incredible Cardwell community for their generosity and kindness in supporting the Community Tip Jar initiative. Donated by Terry and Mamiko, this simple jar became a powerful symbol of what can happen when people come together for a good cause. Through loose change, quiet contributions, and shared goodwill, a total of $190.60 was raised and all donated by everyday people with a shared desire to give back, or simply empty their pockets.

The chosen recipient, QF23 Cardwell Coastguard, plays a vital role in keeping our local waters safe, and this donation will directly support their ongoing efforts, as they put "keeping our boaties safe". But more than just the amount raised, it's the collective act of giving that deserves recognition. The Cardwell community has shown that generosity and care for one another still thrive.

To everyone who added a coin, of any amount, thank you. Here's to the quiet heroes in our community who continue to lead with heart.

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If your child was born after March 2024, the Hinchinbrook Shire Council warmly invites your family to attend the 2025 Baby Welcoming Ceremony at the Hinchinbrook Shire Library.

At this special event, your little one will be officially welcomed as a member of the Hinchinbrook community by the Mayor. Each family will receive a gift bag, a personalised certificate, and a commemorative sapling to symbolise the setting down of new roots and the special new bud added to your family tree.

Parents and carers who have already registered for this year’s ceremony do not need to register again and the ceremony will take place from 9.00 am on Saturday, 17 May 2025.

Registration for new families will open soon, so keep an eye on the Hinchinbrook Shire Council's Facebook page!

For further information, please contact the Hinchinbrook Shire Library on: 07 4776 4614 or email: library@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au.

WHAT: Hinchinbrook Baby Welcoming Ceremony.
WHEN: Saturday 17 May, from 9.00am.
WHERE: TYTO Conference and Events Centre 73-75 McIlwraith St, Ingham.

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