Ob la di has excitingly kicked off the new year in style, inviting the community to warm up their vocal cords and sing The Beatles infamous tune from your front door to theirs on 113 Victoria Street in Cardwell!

Boasting a vibrant collection of unique fashion pieces, gorgeous gifts, fabulous garden decorations and colourful homewares, including the work of Western Australian artist, Anna Chandler, the staff inside the self-titled “funky store” cannot wait to continue serving the Cardwell community for another wonderful year!

A recent snake bite in Cardwell has renewed warnings for residents to remain vigilant as wet weather and warmer conditions drive snakes closer to homes and public spaces. In the early hours of Friday, the 2nd of January, a man in his 20s was bitten by a snake on Marine Parade around 3.45am. Emergency services responded quickly, and the patient was transported in a stable condition to Ingham Hospital for medical treatment.

The incident comes as persistent rainfall across the region creates ideal conditions for snake activity. Heavy rain can flood burrows and natural habitats, forcing snakes to seek higher, drier ground, often in backyards, sheds, under buildings and around stored materials. Long grass, rubble and timber piles also provide attractive shelter.

While snakes are a natural part of North Queensland’s environment and are protected under the Nature Conservation Act 1992, experts warn that most snake bites occur when people attempt to interfere with or kill them. Snakes are generally not aggressive and will usually retreat if given space, but they may defend themselves if threatened.

Residents are encouraged to reduce risks by keeping lawns trimmed, removing clutter from yards, and ensuring homes are well sealed with screened doors and windows. Wearing enclosed footwear, especially at night or in wet conditions, is also advised, as snakes may be active after dark.

If you spot a snake out and about, remember to keep your distance, and if they're injured, contact North Queensland Wildlife Care on 0414 717 374. If you come across a snake on your property that raises concern, please contact a local snake catcher or a snake relocation service.

Snake bites, although uncommon, are a medical emergency. Anyone bitten should remain still, receive immediate first aid using pressure immobilisation, and call 000 without delay. As the wet season continues, awareness and preparation remain key to staying safe.

If you’ve been missing the Cardwell RSL’s infamous Sunday Aussie BBQ Lunch, then you’re in luck! Pop out your calendars and put a big, bright red circle around Sunday, the 8th of February, as the club gears up to mark its first Sunday Lunch of the new year.

The weekly gatherings raise valuable funds for the subbranch, which are redirected into the community through generous donations allocated to several community organisations, including local schools, the QF23 Cardwell Coast Guard, and other non-profit groups.

The Cardwell RSL will officially resume for the year after a well-deserved break on the same Sunday, kicking off 2026 with an annual general meeting (AGM) at 10am. Robert Lang, President of the Cardwell RSL, has urged all members and prospective members to attend the meeting to discuss 2025 and plan for the year ahead. If you have any queries, you can contact the subbranch via email at secretary@cardwell.rslqld.net.au.

Members of the wider local community are then warmly invited to come along to enjoy a social lunch from midday for just $10 per person, with dessert available for an additional $5 per person.

Come one, come all, and kick off 2026 with the Cardwell RSL this February at 36-38 Roma Street, Cardwell!

What: Cardwell RSL AGM & Sunday Lunch
When: Sunday, the 8th of February, from 10am
Where: Cardwell RSL, 36-38 Roma Street, Cardwell

Supporting Young Minds Through the Transition

As school bags come out of cupboards and routines start to shift, many families are preparing for the return to school. For some kids and teens, that’s exciting. For others, it can bring a mix of nerves, resistance, or overwhelm.

Whether it’s starting a new school, returning after a long break, or simply getting back into early mornings, there’s a lot going on — socially, emotionally, and mentally.

Some children might feel anxious about seeing classmates again, while others worry about keeping up, fitting in, or managing expectations. For adolescents, this can show up as changes in mood, sleep patterns, irritability, or withdrawing from things they usually enjoy.

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, but here are a few ways parents and carers can help:

· Start easing back into sleep and morning routines gradually.

· Talk about what’s coming up in a calm, positive way — don’t wait for a meltdown to check in.

· Reassure them it’s normal to feel a bit nervous or uncertain.

· Encourage time with friends and fun activities that build confidence before school starts.

And most importantly, stay connected. If you notice ongoing distress, changes in behaviour, or something that doesn’t feel quite right, trust your gut. A conversation with a psychologist or counsellor can help clarify what’s going on and how to best support your child.

Get in touch at intake@tumbleweedtherapies.com, call 07 4463 8679 or enquire online at www.tumbleweedtherapies.com.au

Simple Ways to Care for the Planet in 2026

As the New Year begins, many people are setting goals around health, finances or personal growth. But what about setting a goal to help the environment right here in our own backyard?

Environmental advocates are encouraging locals to think small when it comes to sustainability, focusing on simple, realistic changes that are easy to maintain and can make a meaningful difference over time. Rather than sweeping lifestyle overhauls, it’s the everyday habits that often have the greatest impact.

Among the small but effective commitments gaining traction this year is reducing food waste. Simple actions such as meal prepping, storing food correctly and writing a shopping list before heading to the supermarket can significantly cut down on unnecessary waste and save money along the way.

Another easy switch is keeping a reusable mug or water bottle at work or on the go. By reducing reliance on single-use cups and plastics, individuals can help limit waste entering landfills and local waterways.

Learning practical skills is also making a comeback. Picking up basic sewing skills to mend clothes rather than replacing them can extend the life of garments and reduce the environmental footprint of fast fashion.

Spending time outdoors is another resolution with multiple benefits. Committing to just one walk in nature each week helps build a stronger connection to the environment and often leads to small acts of care, such as picking up litter along the way.

Fashion habits are also being reconsidered, with many choosing to re-wear outfits to multiple events instead of buying something new each time. It's a simple shift that reduces waste and consumption.

As 2026 unfolds, locals are being encouraged to reflect on what small commitment they can make for their home, yard or neighbourhood. Because when it comes to protecting the planet, small changes made by many people can add up to something powerful.

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With the school year just around the corner, Sportspower Ingham is helping local families tick off those back-to-school must-haves with its Back to School Sale, running until the end of January 2026.

Getting students ready for the year ahead has never been easier, with savings of up to 50 percent off RRP on selected footwear and 20 percent off RRP on selected backpacks. From everyday school essentials to sporty gear built for busy playgrounds and after-school training, Sportspower Ingham has it covered.

Backpacks are available in a wide range of styles, from bright patterns to classic plain designs, all featuring practical pockets and sturdy zips to suit every age and personality. With 20 percent off selected backpacks, it’s the perfect time to upgrade before the first bell rings.

Footwear is another big back-to-school focus, with 50 percent off selected shoes designed to keep growing feet supported and comfortable. Whether it’s durable school shoes for the classroom, runners for PE, or sport-specific footwear like netball trainers and soccer boots, each pair offers the right fit, support and performance for an active school year.

Families with students attending Gilroy Santa Maria College will also find a selection of uniform-compliant, quality leather school shoes in store, making Sportspower Ingham a convenient one-stop shop.

With expert fitting advice, trusted brands and great value, Sportspower Ingham continues to be the local go-to for back-to-school shopping. From runners and backpacks to hats, drink bottles and more, they’ll help set students up to move, play and perform all year long.

Shop online or head in-store and see one of Sportspower Ingham’s fitting experts today, because when kids feel comfortable and confident, they’re ready to take on the school year.

With such unpredictable weather set to make its way across the Hinchinbrook Shire over the coming weeks, it’s important to stay vigilant, and report any damage to school properties to the Queensland Government’s School Watch Program.

During school holiday periods, the Queensland Government asks local communities to keep an eye on school grounds and “look, listen, report” to safeguard schools against property damage, or incidents of unlawful entry, arson, theft and graffiti.

If you see anything suspicious or concerning, don’t attempt to intervene. Instead, the Queensland Police Service and Queensland Department of Education advise residents to call the official School Watch number on 13 17 88. In an emergency, always dial 000.

Since the program launched in 2014, School Watch has been a vital part in keeping school communities free from harm across the state to ensure all students can come back to a welcoming and safe environment when the school year commences.

Former Police Minister, Mark Ryan, said local communities have an integral role to play in keeping school grounds safe.

“The Queensland Police Service relies on information from the public to combat all sorts of crime, and keeping our schools safe is no exception. A vigilant community means there are “eyes and ears” everywhere and provides invaluable support to our hardworking police,” Minister Ryan said.

“Our schools are precious places of learning and are too valuable to become the collateral damage of the senseless actions of a misguided minority.”

Ergon Energy field crews worked throughout the night on Sunday, and as at 5am on Monday, there are approximately 2,500 customers without electricity due to ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji.

This is down from the peak of 23,000 customers that were impacted across Townsville, the Whitsundays, and the Mackay local government areas yesterday.

Approximately 20,500 customers have had their electricity restored since yesterday’s cyclone landfall, which is 90% of impacted customers.

Ergon Energy crews will continue restoration efforts today, noting the outlying customers may experience a longer restoration timeframe depending on the extent of network damage, and the ability for crews to access the damaged areas.

Ergon crews will do damage assessments of the remaining impacted network today to determine estimated restoration timeframes for the remaining customers and communities impacted.

Once determined, each estimated restoration timeframe will be uploaded into the Ergon outage finder website for customers to best determine their individual situation and arrangements.

Information on any remaining electricity outages is available at Ergon Network’s online outage finder: www.ergon.com.au/network/outages/outage-finder/outage-finder-text-view

Queensland authorities are urging boaties and beach-goers to put safety first this summer, warning that a single reckless decision on the water could quickly turn a day of fun into tragedy.

Queensland Water Police, alongside partner agencies, will be ramping up patrols across coastal and inland waterways. The increased enforcement comes as marine incidents traditionally spike during peak travel periods.

Patrols will focus on dangerous and non-compliant boating behaviour, including speeding, unsafe manoeuvres, and operating vessels under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Authorities will also be closely monitoring vessel safety standards, lifejacket compliance and overall waterway behaviour.

Boaties are being reminded to ensure their vessels are properly maintained and equipped before heading out, with all required safety gear on board, in good condition and easily accessible in case of emergency.

Maritime Safety Queensland General Manager Kell Dillion said wearing a lifejacket could be lifesaving.

“We’re reminding skippers that if something goes wrong and you end up in the water, your lifejacket can only save you if you’re wearing it,” he said.

“Before you head out, take a minute to check your lifejackets are in good condition, meet Australian Standard 4758, and are the right size for everyone on board. A properly fitted, well-maintained lifejacket can be the difference between a close call and a tragedy.”

Police have also warned that drink and drug driving on the water is both illegal and extremely dangerous, while speeding in congested holiday waterways remains a major concern. Seasonal speed limits and restricted zones will be actively enforced.

Water Police Gold Coast Officer in Charge Senior Sergeant Peter Venz said officers would take firm action where required.

“Slow down, allow extra time for busy waterways, and stay off drink and drugs if you are operating a vessel.” Senior Sergeant Venz said.

Seqwater Operations Manager Katie Jones reminded skippers to remain alert for submerged hazards and changing conditions.

“Be alert and be aware,” she said.

“Make sure you check the weather and water conditions before you leave and stay aware of who and what is around you on the water.”

Surf Life Saving Queensland is also urging beachgoers to swim between the red and yellow flags.

“We all love a day at the beach, but the surf can be unpredictable,” Lifesaving Services Coordinator Paul Ryan said.

“That’s why we use the flags to mark the safest area to swim.”

Senior Sergeant Venz said keeping Queensland’s waterways safe was a shared responsibility.

“We remain committed to working with partner agencies to reduce marine incidents and keep Queenslanders safe,” he said.

“Our message is clear: respect the conditions, follow the rules, and help ensure everyone can enjoy a safe summer on the water.”

Hi Readers,

I hope you all enjoyed a wonderful Christmas spent with family and friends. As we move into the New Year, it’s also a timely reminder that this is the season when being prepared really matters.

Living in our shire, we know how quickly weather conditions can change. Taking a little time now to prepare can make a big difference for you and your family if an emergency occurs. Preparation doesn’t have to be overwhelming small, practical steps can provide peace of mind and help keep everyone safe.

A good place to start is with water and food. Aim to have enough supplies for at least seven to 10 days, including around 10 litres of drinking water per person, along with non-perishable food items that don’t require refrigeration.

For families with young children, check that baby food and formula are within expiry dates, and ensure you have enough nappies, wipes and bottles to last several days. Our pets are part of the family too, so remember to put aside dry food, water and feeding bowls for them.

Health and hygiene supplies are equally important. A basic first aid kit, face masks, work gloves and rubbish bags are useful to have on hand. Make sure you have essential medications, including at least a week’s supply of prescription and over-the-counter medicines. Toiletries such as toilet paper, soap, toothpaste, shampoo, sunscreen, insect repellent, tissues and hand sanitiser should also be included.

Finally, take time to gather your important documents. Keeping paper copies or scanned versions saved to a USB — such as driver’s licences, insurance policies, passports and legal documents — can save a great deal of stress when you need them most.

Preparing now helps protect what matters most.

As we welcome the year ahead, I wish everyone a very Happy and safe New Year for 2026. Please take care, stay prepared and continue to look out for one another.

A slow-moving weather pattern is continuing to impact the Hinchinbrook region, with storms developing over the ranges and drifting east towards the coast, where they have the potential to stall and deliver heavy rainfall.

Mayor Ramon Jayo said the system has followed a familiar pattern over recent days, with storms becoming “stonewalled by coastal convergence somewhere along our coastline” before stopping and releasing significant rain. “That’s where the big rain is, as the system stops and drops on top without moving,” he said.

According to the Bureau of Meteorology, this pattern is expected to continue until at least next Tuesday. The greatest risk now lies inland.

Slow-Moving Storm Pattern Keeps Herbert Catchment Under Watch

Rainfall of around 154mm was recorded at Wallaman overnight, resulting in slow but steady rises along the Herbert River. As of Monday morning, Mayor Jayo advised it was probable that the Ingham Pump Station could reach minor flood level of 10 metres during the afternoon. Abergowrie Bridge is already at minor flood level, with modelling indicating it could approach moderate levels later tonight or into tomorrow.

“A minor flood level will not affect property or lead to serious disruption,” Mayor Jayo said. However, he noted that even minor flooding can impact access for Lower Herbert communities, particularly if levels reach known cut-off points. “Remember, 8.99 metres at Ingham Pump Station will have water hitting the Anabranch Bridge at Bemerside, and the Halifax washway will be in water.”

Residents in Lower Herbert and Abergowrie are being urged to monitor river levels closely and adjust travel plans if water levels approach those thresholds. Visitors staying in coastal areas such as Lucinda and Taylors Beach are also encouraged to stay informed.

Council continues to monitor conditions closely, with river levels across many parts of the Herbert currently recorded as steady or rising, and below flood level or at minor flood stage.

Stay Informed Via The Disaster Dashboard

Residents are encouraged to regularly check Hinchinbrook Shire Council’s Disaster Dashboard for the most up-to-date local information.

The dashboard provides real-time updates on flood cameras, road conditions, weather warnings and power outages. It also includes links to Bureau of Meteorology pages, flood height charts, emergency action guides, local emergency contacts, social media updates and an incidents map showing recorded statuses across the shire.

Road closures are updated as conditions change, and the dashboard remains the most reliable source of verified local information during weather events.

Safety Advice

Do not drive, walk or play in floodwater, as it can be extremely dangerous.
Always obey road closure signs and plan ahead.
Stay informed through local media and official channels.

Before travelling, check road conditions, particularly after heavy rain or during high tide. Avoid driving through flooded or saltwater-affected areas, as this poses serious safety risks and can damage vehicles.

For emergency assistance, contact SES on 132 500. In life-threatening situations, call 000.

The Hinchinbrook Disaster Dashboard can be accessed at:
https://disaster.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au

Hiya Hinchinbrook Shire,

Are you feeling refreshed and ready for the new year? I hope everyone enjoyed their Christmas holidays and had a fantastic New Year's celebration surrounded by friends and loved ones. A new year brings new opportunities and a fresh start. Wishful resolutions are fine, but how about we set feasible goals?

Planning and preparedness are familiar concepts in regional areas like ours, particularly in terms of survival through our wonderful seasons, but how about in the matter of living? What enjoyment will you try or pursue this year? And once you have that goal in mind, break it down into the steps to achieve it. Take learning a new instrument or travelling to a new place (very popular New Year's resolutions) and actually set yourself the steps to achieve them.

Like applying for a passport or booking a term of music lessons. The small first steps can seem the hardest hurdle, but once complete, the rest can be smooth sailing if you stick with the process. Great, you now have your travel documents or you now know the basic chords, the rest of the resolution to be a rockstar or climb Mt Everest are at least feasible goals you could reach now.

Have fun and enjoy the journey to the resolution as much as achieving the goal itself. Happy New Year, Hinchinbrook!

Victoria

Fun Fact: My resolution last year was to start horse riding again. Get back in the saddle, so to speak, now I have set myself the goal to perfect my canter and the resolution to jump higher in horsesports than I did last year.

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The Cardwell parkrun family started the New Year with a whole lot of heart, as 19 walkers and runners took to the foreshore for the first parkrun of the year.

Among the celebrations was a special milestone, with Lyndel clocking up an incredible 400 parkruns. A huge achievement and one that reflects years of dedication, early mornings and encouragement for others along the way.

It was an emotional morning too, as the community farewelled Lyndel and Ward, who are moving on after years as much-loved members of the Cardwell parkrun family. Fellow participants marked the occasion with a card and handwritten messages drawn along the pathway of the course, turning the foreshore into a living farewell.

In a message shared with the pair, the Cardwell parkrun family thanked them “for everything you have done for us over the years since you came to Cardwell”, praising their dedication to the small “but mighty” parkrun community, before ending with the reminder that this was “not a goodbye, it’s a see you again soon”.

Their contribution has gone far beyond kilometres logged. From volunteering to friendship and support week after week, Lyndel and Ward have helped shape the welcoming spirit that defines Cardwell parkrun.

As one chapter closes and another begins, Cardwell parkrun once again showed that it is about far more than a run. It is about fostering a healthy community, kindness and showing up for one another, right to the very last finish line

Hinchinbrook continues to grow, welcoming new professionals and families attracted by lifestyle, affordability and the natural beauty of North Queensland.

While this growth is positive, it also highlights the need for strong disaster preparedness across the community.

“Hinchinbrook is a wonderful place to live, but it’s also a region where cyclones, flooding and storm tides are part of everyday reality,” said Hinchinbrook Shire Council Mayor Ramon Jayo.

“For long-time locals, this is well understood. For newcomers, the risks may not become clear until severe weather hits and by then it can be too late.”

Mayor Jayo said disaster preparedness is not a seasonal message and that it is a shared responsibility.

“Severe weather can escalate quickly, with roads closing within hours, power outages lasting days and communities becoming isolated,” he said.

“Nearly 12 months ago, many households were cut off without access to shops or pharmacies. That experience reinforced why preparation is critical, not optional.”

Residents are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the Australian Warning System, which uses three levels — Advice, Watch and Act, and Emergency Warning.

“Understanding what these warnings mean can save lives, but awareness alone isn’t enough,” the spokesperson said.

“Every household needs a clear emergency and evacuation plan, an emergency kit with essential supplies, and a plan for pets.”

New residents may also underestimate the likelihood of isolation during disasters. Flooding and infrastructure damage can cut off rural properties and small communities for days.

“Every household should be prepared to be self-sufficient for seven to ten days,” Mayor Jayo said.

“Non-perishable food, water, medications, pet food, fuel and batteries are lifelines, not luxuries.”

While the Local Disaster Coordination Centre can assist isolated areas, this is a last resort after prolonged isolation.

“The best defence is self-sufficiency,” Mayor Jayo said.

For real-time information, residents are urged to use the Hinchinbrook Disaster Dashboard, which provides live updates on road closures, flood alerts, power outages and weather warnings. Location-based email alerts are also available.

“Hinchinbrook is known for its strong community spirit,” Mayor Jayo said.

“We ask residents to share this information, check on neighbours and help ensure everyone has access to reliable updates.”

“Disasters don’t wait. Preparation saves lives,” Mayor Jayo said.

“As our community grows, so does our responsibility to plan, prepare and look out for one another.”

Visit: disaster.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au or getready.qld.gov.au for more information.

On Sunday 21st at 5:00pm, local members of the Texas Terror Committee, together with Hinchinbrook Shire Mayor Ramon Jayo and Herbert River RSL President Rodger Bow, attended the annual memorial ceremony honouring those who lost their lives in the Texas Terror plane crash.

The ceremony commemorates the American B-24 Liberator bomber that crashed into the summit of Mount Straloch on Hinchinbrook Island in mid-December 1942, killing all twelve crew members on board.

Guests also travelled from 31 Battalion Association branches across the Burdekin, Townsville and Charters Towers to pay their respects.

During the service, a minute’s silence was observed not only for the crew of the Texas Terror, but also in remembrance of the victims of the Bondi shooting.

Messages of thanks were read from the daughter of Colonel Riggs in the United States, expressing her appreciation to those who continue to honour and preserve the history of the crash and the lives lost.

A dinner was held following the ceremony, providing an opportunity for attendees to reflect and share stories in a respectful and commemorative setting.

(Contributed with thanks by Felix Reitano, O.A.M. Pres. 31 Bn Assoc Ingham)