Residents across the Cassowary Coast and Hinchinbrook are being invited to have their say on proposed changes to Queensland’s planning framework, including how communities plan for natural hazards, housing and future development.

‍

Public consultation has opened on the Queensland Government’s draft State Planning Policy (SPP), with submissions accepted until midnight on Monday, 26th October.

The SPP guides land use planning and development across Queensland and informs the preparation and application of local planning instruments.

‍

The current policy was released in 2017, with the proposed framework aiming to improve the clarity and efficiency of the planning system while supporting housing, economic growth and infrastructure investment.

‍

Among the key proposed changes is a revised approach to natural hazards and resilience, with a greater focus on risk-based planning.

The government is also reviewing approaches to flood mapping, citing inconsistencies created by different technical inputs which can result in varying maps across the same catchment.

‍

Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jarrod Bleijie said the current approach was creating uncertainty.

‍

“We also know the state’s current flood mapping methodology and guidance is causing more confusion than clarity, and it’s affecting everything from people’s property rights to insurance premiums,” Mr Bleijie said.

‍

Other proposed changes include six new strategic aspirations to guide planning outcomes, streamlined state interests and a new Environment, Heritage and Efficient Growth state interest aimed at supporting coordinated growth while protecting environmental, heritage, natural and rural landscapes.

Feedback is welcomed from local governments, industry, community organisations and residents.

‍

Submissions can be made through the Queensland Government’s online survey, by emailing planningforqueensland@dsdip.qld.gov.au or by post.

‍

Betty Cocharine - Photo credit; Sian Bantock

‍

By Sian Bantock

‍

Betty Cocharine holds a remarkable accolade within the Tully branch of the Queensland Women’s Country Association (QCWA) - she has been apart of the group for the last 50 years and is the longest serving member.  

‍

Betty and her husband moved to Tully in the mid-1970s for his work selling fertiliser.  

‍

“Coming to a rural town was quite daunting at first and I only knew my husband; back then I wouldn’t have spoken to a goose,” Betty said.  

“One of my neighbours invited me to the next meeting and when I arrived I felt like I was their grandchild ‘cause they were so nice to me.”  

‍

Across the last five decades, Betty has seen the QCWA branch play a steady and practical role within the local community - from making sandwiches for schools sports day, supporting expectant mothers, hosting social nights, playing card games, group yoga and collecting donations local causes.  

‍

“The old motto is: it’s what we can do for the CWA not what CWA can do for us”  

‍

For residents like Betty, the Tully QCWA became a lifeline - a place to build confidence, find friendship and support the local community.  

The branch remains active today and continues to welcome new members. Reach out to the secretary at: tullybranch@qcwa.org.au  

‍

Local schools, sporting clubs and community organisations could soon receive an extra helping hand, with FNQ Motor Group launching a new initiative designed to give back with every vehicle sold.

‍

Through the Community Benefits Program, FNQ Motor Group will donate $100 from each vehicle purchase to a beneficiary nominated by the customer.

The program applies across Island Coast Ford and Mitsubishi, Innisfail Mazda and Nissan, as well as the group’s pre-owned vehicle sales.

‍

Importantly, it will be locals themselves who decide where the money goes.

‍

Each customer purchasing a vehicle will have the opportunity to nominate a beneficiary they would like to support, with donations collected and distributed at the end of each quarter.

‍

Schools, sporting clubs, Rotary and Lions clubs, not-for-profit organisations, hospitals, medical centres and churches are among the organisations customers can choose to support.

‍

FNQ Motor Group estimates the program will generate more than $5,000 in community donations each month, potentially providing a significant boost to organisations and groups across the region over the course of the year.

‍

The Community Benefits Program was established as a way for the local motor group to give back to the community that continues to support its dealerships.

While each individual vehicle purchase will generate a $100 donation, collectively the contributions have the potential to make a much larger impact for local organisations.

‍

For Cassowary Coast customers, it means buying a new or pre-owned vehicle can now go a little further, providing an opportunity to support a school, club, charity or community organisation that matters to them.

‍

It is a simple initiative aimed at keeping support local and giving back to the organisations that help make the Cassowary Coast community what it is.

‍

Primary school students across the Cassowary Coast and Hinchinbrook are being armed with potentially lifesaving electrical safety lessons ahead of Queensland’s storm season.

‍

The Queensland Government’s Safety Heroes program is being rolled out across primary schools during Electrical Safety Fortnight, running from 31st August to 11th September.

‍

Delivered through Ergon Energy and Energex, the program provides teachers with interactive, curriculum-aligned resources designed to teach Prep to Year 6 students how electricity works and how to stay safe around electrical equipment and hazards.

This year, a record 99 per cent of Queensland primary schools have registered for the program.

‍

The lessons are particularly timely as communities prepare for the upcoming storm season, when severe weather and flooding can create dangerous electrical hazards.

Ergon Area Manager Jason Rowe said students were taught to remain at least 10 metres away from electrical hazards and tell an adult, who should report the danger to emergency services on Triple Zero (000).

‍

“The children learn water is a good conductor of electricity, so they should never use wet electrical appliances or power points that have been submerged,” Mr Rowe said.

‍

“Floodwaters can conceal many hazards, including fallen powerlines, so we remind children never to enter swollen creeks or rivers.”

‍

Treasurer and Minister for Energy David Janetzki said teaching young Queenslanders how to respond to electrical hazards was particularly important given the state’s exposure to severe weather, bushfires and floods.

‍

The Safety Heroes program aims to give students practical knowledge they can use both at home and throughout their communities.

‍

Cardwell Lions Club members have been proudly serving the local community since 1968, continuing a long tradition of friendship, volunteering and giving back. Photo supplied

‍

Over the course of almost six decades, the Cardwell Lions Club has been quietly woven into the fabric of the community, bringing locals together while lending a helping hand wherever it is needed.

‍

Established in 1968, the club has grown and changed alongside Cardwell. Its Lions Hall at the Cardwell Sportsground was built over the years through the voluntary work and generosity of members, creating a home for a club founded on community service and companionship.

‍

The club was also ahead of its time when it came to welcoming women as full members.  

While Lions Clubs were originally open only to men, with women supporting activities as Lions Ladies, that changed internationally in 1987. Cardwell was among the early clubs to embrace women as Lions members in their own right.

‍

Over the decades, generations of local families have crossed paths with the club. Long-time residents may remember its three-day camping trips to Gould Island for final-year primary students or the annual Country Music Festival, while many of its traditions continue today.

One of the most enduring is the Senior Citizens Christmas Lunch, which has been held for 57 years and now provides food, drinks and entertainment for more than 120 local seniors each year. Carols by Candlelight also brings residents of all ages together during the festive season.

‍

The club's community spirit extends well beyond Christmas. Its annual Biggest BBQ for Childhood Cancer Research, held alongside a car boot sale during the UFO Festival, typically raises $2,000 or more for Lions Childhood Cancer Research.

‍

Closer to home, funds raised through weekly Goose Club raffles at the Marine Hotel and other activities are returned to the community in practical ways. Recent contributions have included a reclining chair for the Cardwell Medical Centre and a sound system for Cardwell State School, while members also provided assistance and vouchers following last year's flooding.

‍

The Lions Hall remains a community space too, hosting activities including Tai Chi, line dancing and the Cardwell Lions Choir, which visits residents at Rockingham Home each month.

‍

Behind each fundraiser, event and donation is a group of locals giving their time to support their town. For members, however, Lions is just as much about the friendships formed along the way.

‍

With almost 60 years of service behind it, the Cardwell Lions Club is welcoming new members keen to contribute in whatever way they can and become part of a long tradition of community spirit. Interested parties may email cardwelllions@gmail.com.

‍

Junior briefing on the jetty with MBSC Commodore Lachlan Heath, Camden Heath, Hayden Brachna, Carmen Walker, Chloe Brachna, Liam Rayner-Pink, Bee Stokeld, Xanthe Henderson, Quinn Henderson, Josie Heath Photo Credit Rachel Brachna

‍

Mission Beach Sailing Club has delivered a new kind of sailing experience, with its inaugural Adventure Sail bringing 37 participants and 15 vessels together for a weekend on the waters surrounding Dunk Island.

Held across 22–23 August after three years of planning, the event swapped traditional racing for adventure, connection and the relaxed spirit of island time, with Dunk Island serving as base camp.

Sailors took on courses around Purtaboi and Timana islands, while the weekend also featured hiking, fishing, jetty jumping, wildlife spotting and foil boarding.

‍

MBSC offers a unique sailing experience

By Sian Bantock  

‍

Mission Beach Sailing Club (MSBC) held an inaugural adventure sail between 22nd -23rd August, bringing together 37 participants and a fleet of 15 off-the-beach dinghies and catamarans, for a unique adventure sailing experience with Dunk Island serving as base camp.  

‍

The event was highly anticipated, having been 3 years in the making. Most adventure races focus on the competitive aspect, but MB Sailing Club intentionally embraced the spirit of ‘island time’, encouraging sailors to slow down, build connections and share their passion for sailing.

‍

MBSC Commodore, Lachy Heath was impressed by how well the first Adventure Sail panned out.  

‍

”We were able to provide a different take on sailing events, focusing on adventure rather than racing. Many juniors had their first experience sailing to an island and navigating around an island." 

‍

The two-day itinerary offered a range of activities whilst remaining flexible should the conditions change. Sailors made the most of everything Dunk Island had to offer, including hiking, jetty jumping, wildlife spotting, fishing and foil boarding in the sheltered waters between Dunk and Purtoboi Islands.

‍

Adventure sailing requires not only physical endurance but also mental resilience.  

‍

“The challenging Saturday afternoon sailing course sent juniors around Purtaboi Island. Navigating the island's rocky shores tested their sailing skills and extended their mental capabilities. The senior fleet sailed a longer course around Timana Island. and Purtaboi Island,” said MBSC Secretary Carmen Walker.

‍

 “We get a buzz out of being able to facilitate sailing, social connection and watching the sailors progress their skills and confidence.”

‍

It wasn’t just the juniors that were learning something new. Rob Lattimore sailed with his 17-year-old nephew Lars Gatti on their Nacra 5.8 catamaran.  

‍

"This event reminds me of the adventure sails we used to do as kids back in the 90s,” Rob said.  

“The sailing stretched our skills, put us out of our comfort zone and fuelled our adventurous spirit,”  

‍

The club is now looking ahead to the 44th Mission Beach Regatta, which will be held on 24th and 25th October and is expected to attract sailors from all over North Queensland.  

‍

Anyone wishing to join the Sailing club can reach out to them on; info@missionbeachsailingclub.com.au or follow their Facebook page for more updates.  

‍

A mysterious barnacle-covered object bearing the identification number ISL+274267 washed ashore at the southern end of Wongaling Beach. Photo credit: Linden Carney

‍

A strange barnacle-covered object discovered on the southern end of Wongaling Beach has sparked plenty of curiosity among locals, with the mystery item believed to be part of a device used by commercial fishing vessels to locate fish at sea.

‍

Mission Beach’s Linden Carney who came across the circular object shared photographs online asking if anyone knew what it could be, prompting several suggestions however, its appearance and identification markings suggest it may be a satellite tracking buoy associated with a drifting Fish Aggregating Device, commonly known as a FAD.

‍

Photographs show the identification number ISL+274267 on the object, although exactly where it came from, who owns it and how far it travelled before reaching Wongaling Beach remain a mystery.  

‍

FADs are used by commercial fishing vessels to help locate fish such as tuna, which naturally gather around floating objects in the ocean. Drifting versions can be fitted with satellite tracking equipment and, in some cases, sonar, allowing fishing crews to follow the device and detect fish gathering beneath it.

‍

Judging by the marine growth covering the Wongaling Beach find, the unusual object certainly appears to have spent some time at sea before its arrival on the Cassowary Coast, and it’s not the first mysterious object to turn up on a nearby North Queensland beach in recent months.

‍

In early July, six large spherical metal objects washed ashore at Forrest Beach, near Ingham, attracting national and international attention. Authorities established a safety exclusion zone while the objects were investigated, with the Australian Space Agency later saying they appeared consistent with pressure vessels from a space launch vehicle.

‍

While the Wongaling Beach discovery appears to have a much more earthly explanation, it has once again sparked plenty of curiosity about what can travel across the ocean before eventually finding its way onto Far North Queensland's shores.

Two newly graduated Queensland Police Service First Year Constables will begin their policing careers in Innisfail following the latest graduation of 126 officers from the Queensland Police Academy. Photo supplied

‍

Innisfail will welcome two new First Year Constables to the frontline following the Queensland Police Service’s largest graduation of the year.

‍

A total of 126 new officers graduated from the Queensland Police Academy at Oxley last week, with 13 set to begin their careers across the Far North and two specifically allocated to Innisfail.

‍

The local deployment comes as the Queensland Government says more than 2,000 police officers have been sworn into the service since October 2024, with the latest graduating cohort taking the Queensland Police Service beyond 13,000 officers for the first time.

‍

Acting Commissioner of Police Brett Pointing said the newest officers would play an important role in the communities they join.

‍

“From metropolitan centres to regional and remote communities, these officers will play an important role in strengthening community confidence and keeping everyday Queenslanders safe,” Acting Commissioner Pointing said.

‍

“From the moment our first year constables put on the blue uniform, they commit to making a meaningful difference in serving the community.”

‍

The two incoming officers will join Innisfail’s existing policing team as they begin their first year on the frontline, gaining practical experience across duties including emergency response, crime prevention, community engagement and public safety.

‍

Across the wider Far North region, four new constables will be deployed to Cairns, two to Cooktown, three to Mareeba and one each to Edmonton and Ravenshoe, alongside the two heading to Innisfail.

‍

The graduating class includes former Australian Defence Force personnel, tradespeople, hospitality workers and emergency services employees, with recruits ranging in age from 18 to 53.

Minister for Police and Emergency Services Dan Purdie said the latest graduation represented continued investment in frontline policing across Queensland.

‍

“Queenslanders are answering the call to serve in record numbers, bringing with them the skills, experience and resilience gained from careers across every corner of our community,” Minister Purdie said.

Mission Beach and Tully police allegedly located 24 cannabis plants, a grow tent, horticultural supplies and drug utensils during a search of a Mission Beach property last month. Picture source: QPS

‍

Two Mission Beach residents have been charged with multiple drug offences after police allegedly uncovered cannabis plants and drug-related equipment during a search of a local property earlier this month.

‍

Mission Beach and Tully police executed a search warrant at a Yamala Close address on 11th August, where officers allegedly located 24 cannabis plants.

Police also allegedly found a grow tent, horticultural supplies and other drug utensils at the property.

‍

Following the search, a 29-year-old Mission Beach man and a 25-year-old Mission Beach woman were each charged with one count of possessing dangerous drugs, one count of producing dangerous drugs and one count of possessinganything used in the commission of a crime.

‍

Both were issued notices to appear before Tully Magistrates Court on 1st October.

‍

Anyone with information for police can contact Policelink 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or provide information anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

‍

Police reference: QP2601557654.

Bespoke plaque on display as defibrillator is given to the nursing home Photo Credit: Sherie Hensler-Adams

‍

By Sian Bantock

‍

Tully Nursing home has received a significant donation from Mission Beach Meals on Wheels providing a much-needed exercise equipment for the elderly residents.  

‍

Manager Gail Mears, who has led the community owned not-for-profit facility since 2021 said she was deeply moved.  

“I’m overwhelmed in sense, you feel yourself you’re making a change in the community, any amount that gets donated it doesn’t matter it’s all important’  

‍

Karen Taylor from Mission Beach Meals on Wheels gave a financial donation that was spent on replacing vital gym equipment when the previous set was deemed unusable from smoke damage, the fire was caused by an exhaust fan in May.  

‍

Maintaining regular movement is important for residents to avoid frailty and so the gym plays a key role in supporting strength, movement and independence.  

‍

Exercise physiologist David Musumeci, said the equipment will make a huge impact on the residents physical well-being.  

‍

“The facility gym will help support our residents in improving their strength, mobility and balance with our overall goal of maintaining and improving their independence and quality of life.” Said David

‍

The donation has enabled the nursing home to purchase a recumbent bike, cable station, rehabilitation staircase and a defibrillator.  

In honour of the generous donation a plaque has been installed in the gym as a permanent reminder of the good deed from Mission Beach Meals on Wheels.

‍

Remember September, Pankind’s flagship fundraising campaign, brings communities together each year to remember those affected by pancreatic cancer while raising vital funds for research and support. Photo supplied 

‍

Cassowary Coast and Hinchinbrook residents are being encouraged to lace up their walking shoes or ditch a daily vice this month to support those affected by pancreatic cancer.

Pankind’s Remember September 2026 campaign is calling on the community to take action against Australia’s third biggest cancer killer, with two challenges available.

‍

Participants can Move It by walking or running 78km throughout September, representing the 78 Australians who die from pancreatic cancer every week, or Give It Up by going without a vice such as coffee, sugar or alcohol for the month.

‍

More than 4,500 Australians are expected to be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer this year, with 80 per cent dying within 12 months. The five-year survival rate is just 13 per cent, dropping to around six per cent in rural and regional areas.

‍

Pankind CEO Michelle Stewart said research was key to changing those outcomes.

‍

“Remember September is about solidarity, action, and progress. Every step taken and every dollar raised fuels research that could help Australians live longer and live better after diagnosis.”

‍

Since its inception, Pankind has invested more than $20 million in research grants across 76 projects at leading Australian institutions, and those wishing to become involved in this month’s fundraiser are encouraged to register online via www.rememberseptember.org.au.

‍

Year 10 students Trade Training Centre. Photo supplied: Gilroy Santa Maria College

‍

Contributed By Gilroy Santa Maria College

‍

Stepping onto the grounds of Gilroy Santa Maria College is equal parts historic nostalgia and modern innovations.

‍

In the heart of the school grounds is the 1948 built College Chapel. The red bricks stand as a reminder of the foundations of the College in a space that is still utilised today.

The iconic GSMC Art Room remains at the entrance of the College and allows students to express their creativity leading to opportunities like the 2026 Traces of Growth Art Exhibition at the Tyto Regional Gallery.

‍

Transformed from its original form, GSMC now houses a multi-purpose hall true to its name. From hosting netball games to Debutant Balls, the fully airconditioned space inside the Santa Maria Centre allows for students and the wider community to experience a variety of opportunities in comfort.

Most recently the College has added the Edmund Rice Centre to house the College Library, Pastoral Care space and Guidance Counsellors.

‍

‍

GSMC students with a flair for food creations are able to explore these talents in the state-of-the-art hospitality industrial training facility, the Catherine McAuley Centre. Neighbouring this building is the Ferlazzo Centre (Trade Training Centre).  

‍

GSMC has long been regarded as the leaders for developing the next generation of tradespeople in the district, offering Junior Design & Technology, Graphics, Certificates in Electro Technology, Construction and Engineering- meaning students experience many entry level trade skills before they embark on their working lives after Year 12.

‍

College Principal, Mrs Johanna Smith invites families from across the district considering GSMC for their child’s education, to explore the exceptional facilities and grounds via a guided tour. Future tour dates will be announced on the College Facebook page.

‍

‍

Residents and road users in Halifax and Cordelia are being advised to expect changes around Eddleston Drive and Halifax Road as Hinchinbrook Shire Council begins a major water main upgrade.

‍

Approximately one kilometre of water main infrastructure will be upgraded in the area, with works scheduled to commence on Monday 31^st August and expected to continue until Friday 11^th September.

‍

The project forms part of Council’s 2026-2027 Budget and is aimed at upgrading essential water infrastructure serving the local area.

‍

During the works, traffic control will be in place and motorists are advised to allow additional travel time, with minor delays expected. Temporary single-lane closures may also be required while construction is underway.

‍

Council has advised that further updates will be provided to the community as more information about the progress of the water main upgrade becomes available.

Residents and road users are encouraged to take care when travelling through the work area and follow all traffic control directions while crews are carrying out the upgrades.

‍

Council thanked the community for its patience and understanding while the essential infrastructure works are undertaken.

‍

For further information, residents can contact Hinchinbrook Shire Council’s Customer Service Centre on (07) 4776 4600.

‍

Students at St Peter’s participate in many diverse extracurricular programs. Photos supplied

‍

Contributed with thanks by St Peter's Catholic School

‍

Students at St Peter’s continue to benefit from a wide range of extracurricular activities that support learning, leadership and community involvement. Throughout the year, students participate in significant First Nations events, including NAIDOC Week and National Reconciliation Week activities, which promote understanding, respect and cultural awareness.

‍

‍

The school also provides coaching and development opportunities in a variety of sports, including basketball, cricket and tennis, helping students build teamwork, resilience and healthy lifestyles. Participating in local sporting events such as Romanello Shield, the Macknade Touch Carnival and the interschool sports also encourages strong community spirit and good sportsmanship. Academically, students are challenged through enrichment programs such as the Australian Mathematics Competition and the national Write a Book in a Day competition, encouraging creativity, problem-solving and collaboration.

‍

Students also represent the school in local lecturette competitions, developing confidence and public speaking skills. Our talented choir regularly performs for local nursing homes and community events, bringing joy to audiences while strengthening their connection to the community.

‍

These varied opportunities ensure our students can discover their interests, develop new skills and make meaningful contributions both within and beyond the school community.

‍

I know I probably look like every other Staffy X looking for a forever home but before you look past, remember the saying, “Don’t judge a book by its cover.” That’s me!

‍

I’m a well-mannered girl with lots to offer. I’m already toilet trained, love hopping in the car for adventures, enjoy long walks where I can suss out all the interesting smells but I’m just as happy being lazy curled up on the couch watching TV with my people.

‍

I think the world is a pretty amazing place! Whether it’s exploring the beach, playing with toys, soaking up the sunshine, wandering around the garden, or finding the perfect cosy spot for a nap, I’m always ready to enjoy life with my family.

‍

I would do best as the only dog in the home so I can have all your love and attention. The good news is, I’m cat friendly, making me a great companion for the right household.

‍

If you’re looking for a loyal best friend who will be by your side through every adventure—and every movie night—I might just be the perfect match.

‍

Included in adoption fee of $530 DESEXED, MICRO-CHIPPED, up to date VACCINATIONS, FLEA/TICK/INTESTINAL WORM treated & and on PROHEART. Enquire today at  angelpawsinc.com.au/pets-for-adoption/dogs/

Sex: Female

Colour: Brindle

Breed: Staffy X

DOB: 29/12/2024

Cat Friendly: Yes

Dog Friendly: No

Kid Friendly: Yes

‍