Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
2026 has marked an exciting new chapter for Science at Our Lady of Lourdes with the introduction of Science as a specialist subject across the school. Aligned with the Australian Curriculum Version 9, our science program provides students with opportunities to investigate real-world phenomena through hands-on learning, creativity, inquiry and play. At Lourdes, we believe that students learn best when they are actively engaged in meaningful experiences that allow them to question, explore, design, test and create. Across every year level, students have been immersed in learning that encourages curiosity while developing important skills such as collaboration, critical thinking, problem-solving and resilience. Our Year 2 students have stepped into the role of designers and inventors by creating their own fidget toys. Students investigated how materials can be changed and selected for specific purposes, using the design process to create products that are both practical and engaging. They have loved seeing how different products can be made, especially their favourite toys. Students at Our Lady of Lourdes have had lots of fun being inventors. Photos supplied
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Feel the Magic is providing vital support to children and families across Australia who are navigating the pain of grief, offering a range of free early intervention programs designed to help young people “face, feel and heal” after the death of a parent, guardian or sibling. At the heart of the organisation is a belief that no child should face grief alone. Its programs create a nurturing, supportive environment where children aged 7 to 18 can express their emotions, learn coping strategies, and connect with others who understand their experience. Through its virtual camp programs, Feel the Magic is able to reach families regardless of location. These online sessions bring together grieving children to learn a shared “grief language”, build practical emotional tools, and reduce feelings of isolation through connection with other families. The organisation also offers specialised programs for those impacted by suicide bereavement. These include virtual camps, a one-day face-to-face “Let’s Talk Suicide Family Day Camp”, and the signature Camp Magic experience—an intensive 2.5-day overnight program where children are paired with trained volunteer mentors who provide one-on-one support throughout the camp. Camp Magic focuses on helping children understand grief, regulate difficult emotions and develop healthy coping strategies in a safe and structured environment. A concurrent emotional literacy workshop is also available for parents and guardians, helping families better understand grief responses and strengthen communication at home. For older participants, Grad Camp supports young people aged 16 to 19 as they transition into adulthood while continuing to process their grief experience. Across all programs, Feel the Magic emphasises connection, understanding and hope, with the organisation noting that even a single day can make a meaningful difference in a child’s journey through grief. To learn more about how you can get involved email lauren.galbraith@feelthemagic.org.au. WHAT: Family Day Camp WHEN: 26th July WHERE: The Cathedral School, Townsville
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A strong school community is built on the dedication of its people. At the heart of Halifax SS are highly experienced and caring learning support staff who ensure every student feels included, supported, and capable of success. Their work, alongside experienced and innovative teachers, creates engaging classrooms where creativity and curiosity thrive. Play-based learning is one example of this approach in action, helping students develop confidence, independence, and a love of learning from an early age. Bringing these strengths together is exceptional leadership. This has been recognised through the awarding of the prestigious Bill McClintock Medal, introduced in 2016 to honour individuals who contribute to the advocacy and service of the Queensland Association of State School Principals (QASSP), particularly through supporting colleagues across regional and remote communities. “We are all very proud of Michael for receiving this award,” a spokesperson said. “It reflects a commitment not only to school excellence, but to strengthening education across Queensland. “Together, caring support staff, innovative teaching, and award-winning leadership create an environment where students and communities thrive.” Caption: 1. Teacher aide Jenny Genrich incorporates play-based learning to actively engage students and support early skill development in the classroom. 2. Presentation of the Bill McClintock Medal, recognising outstanding leadership and service to education across Queensland.
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When disaster strikes, firefighters are often the first people the community turns to. But behind every emergency response is a team of locals who give their time, train regularly and step up when their neighbours need them most. Forrest Beach Fire and Rescue is encouraging more community members, particularly younger residents, to consider joining the station and becoming part of the team. "It's a good thing to get people back in from the community, especially for the station here; because we're an elderly community. Getting the younger people in is really, really important,” said Acting Lieutenant Keith Amos. Keith highlighted that being part of the station is a chance to make a tangible impact on the community- and not just in cases of fire. During the major flooding event of 2025 that isolated Forrest Beach and surrounding areas, firefighters assisted residents, with rescues, but also delivering meals and helping secure damaged homes. "The floods, when we were cut off, the way we were seen by the community and how we helped people really made an impact," Keith said. The crew’s role is diverse, and potential recruits are reminded that it’s not all flashing lights and sirens. Beyond the emergencies, auxiliary firefighters have an important role in the everyday community; regularly attending markets, school safety days and events to teach fire safety and engage with local families. During the recent Tasman Turtle Picnic Day, a popular community event for children, countless young attendees were proudly sporting the station’s bright, colourful Blazer the Koala firefighting mascot stickers. "We try and get into the community, showing what we do," Auxiliary Firefighter Michael Monbelli said. Michael also explained that for him, the biggest obstacle is balancing service with everyday life – though this factor he feels is understood and well-supported by the crew. Michael balances his firefighting role with full time work at the mill, and a busy family life with young children. On his team, there is a schoolteacher, two ex-servicemen, and another millworker. Auxiliary firefighters also commit significant time to weekly training. As for emergency response, call-outs can occur at any hour of the day or night. "Being an auxiliary is that we're on call.” Acting Lieutenant Keith Amos explained. “So even on our Wednesday night training we can get a call." Keith described the role as ‘drop everything and jump into action’. Despite the demands, Former Army serviceman Mark McEwen believes many people underestimate how manageable the role can be. "It doesn't take too much out of your normal week. Give up your three hours of training on a Wednesday, and you're on call." At the same time, emergency work can be unpredictable. "Things can change in a heartbeat," Mark said. He recalled a 4:00am call-out to a possible house fire. "Eight hours later, we get home. Us older fellas feel it a bit more, but it was worthwhile. That's what we're here for." The crew also works closely with volunteer organisations including the SES and Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club. During the February 2025 flood event, firefighters and surf lifesavers combined resources to rescue elderly residents trapped by rising floodwaters. According to the firefighters, the biggest motivation to get involved is that it feels good to make a difference in your community. "It's that sense of pride," Keith said, "I take pride in this job and I love doing it." "Even if you've never thought about becoming a firefighter, come down and have a chat to us," Keith said. "It's that simple.” Caption: Members of the Forrest Beach Auxiliary Firefighters: Glyn Morgan, former Air Force serviceman, and Braydon Fratus, local mill worker and the brigade's newest recruit, standing by the Forrest Beach Brigade’s fire engine.
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In a happy little hall besides the sea, the Forrest Beach Queensland Country Women’s Association (QCWA) is proving that community spirit is the best hedge against a rising cost of living. Operating the only op shop currently in the region, the ladies are dedicated to the simple community mantra of ‘a hand up, not a handout’.
Judy King, one of the driving forces behind the local branch, explains that the flat $1 price point of everything in their op-shop is about the current budget-battle everyone is juggling.
"We’re helping the community battle the price of petrol and the price of commodities," Judy says. "We’re just trying to supplement their budgets."
The op shop’s impact is immediate. Recently, a young boy managed to buy a brand-new Spiderman sleeping bag for just a dollar. “He was rapt, he was ecstatic,” She recalled fondly.
Their hall is currently a popular site of activity, partly due to an upcoming relocation. After three years operating out of their current site by the grace of the Council, the move has become a matter of safety. The aging building has been deemed beyond repair, plagued by asbestos, a leaking roof, and failing gutters.
"Council has been very supportive; they are working towards helping us relocate," Judy says happily. “We’re still going to have our library, and we’re still going to have an op shop.”
The Forrest Beach Progress Association premises on Wattle Street is the transition site, marking a significant expansion, with the QCWA set to occupy three rooms and the main hall. It is a natural fit for two groups that already share a close bond.
“We always thought, ‘we work with Progress, we do the Hoy afternoon teas, we do lamingtons for Australia Day, we do Anzac biscuits for Anzac Day.’” Judy recounted, “We work a lot with Progress, and we work well together.”
While the relocation means the group cannot accept donations at the moment, but big plans are afoot for the new space. As the Judy reveals their hopes to partner with Threads, a charity that redirects new clothing away from landfills and into the hands of those who need them.
Beyond the op-shop, the branch takes immense pride in its library. Described by Judy and many visitors as "absolutely brilliant.”
"We have visitors from interstate who come up with their books and swap them. So, it’s always a constant turnover of stock," she says.
The library caters to all ages and interests, featuring everything from vintage finds to recent releases, alongside DVDs, puzzles, and craft magazines. On some days, visitors might even find a basket of locally grown tomatoes or lemons at the door, free for anyone to take.
For women looking to get involved with this wonderful culture of support, there has never been a better time to join. Those who sign up before April 1 receive 15 months of membership for the price of 12, with the $50 fee helping support a range of community activities and projects.
The Forrest Beach QCWA offers a place for everyone. In a world of rising costs, these women remain steadfast in their mission to provide "a hand up" to their neighbours.
A total of 33 babies were warmly welcomed, alongside more than 100 proud family members and friends, as Hinchinbrook celebrated its newest generation at the annual Baby Welcoming Ceremony.
There is something unmistakably powerful about a community coming together to mark new beginnings, and this morning at the Hinchinbrook Shire Library, that spirit was on full display.
Hosted by Hinchinbrook Shire Council, the annual Baby Welcoming Ceremony is a heartfelt occasion that goes beyond smiles and snapshots.
This year’s celebration embraced a ‘Go Wild’ theme, with baby animals adding a playful and vibrant touch to the morning, delighting families while reinforcing the idea of growth, care and nurturing in the early years.
It is a moment that recognises what truly shapes a region, not just infrastructure or industry, but families: the quiet, steady force at the centre of community life.
Mayor Ramon Jayo said each of the Shire’s youngest residents was officially welcomed with care and meaning.
“Each of our Shire’s youngest residents was officially welcomed today with a commemorative certificate, a specially prepared gift pack and a native tree sapling — symbols not only of growth, but of roots being planted right here in Hinchinbrook,” Mayor Jayo said.
“This ceremony isn’t just about welcoming babies; it’s about what they represent for our community. Every child brings hope and opportunity, and investing in their early years is one of the most important things we can do to ensure a strong, connected and resilient future for Hinchinbrook.”
The event also highlighted Council’s ongoing commitment to First 5 Forever, an initiative of the Queensland Government coordinated by the State Library of Queensland, which encourages families to read, talk, sing and play with their children. The simple daily actions that lay the foundation for lifelong learning and wellbeing.
Now’s the time to take advantage of the expanded free flu vaccination program, which now includes for the first time in Australia a needle-free nasal spray for children.
The FluMist Vaccine provides a needle-free vaccination option, which is now being supplied to General Practitioners and Pharmacies, for children aged two to five-years-old.
Launched this month, it’s the largest free flu vaccination program in Australia. Since the start of 2026, more than 6,690 Queenslanders have tested positive to influenza. It follows almost 100,000 confirmed flu cases in 2025, with 9,687 people hospitalised.
The scope of practice for trained health practitioners has been expanded, meaning vaccinations can now be administered by registered nurses, midwives, pharmacists, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health practitioners in any location.
Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Tim Nicholls said the Crisafulli Government was delivering the largest free flu vaccination program in Australia.
“This is the first time a nasal spray vaccination is available in Australia, and it’s a real gamechanger because many parents would understand the distress of getting a young child vaccinated.
“The needle-free flu vaccine takes much of the anxiety out of the vaccination experience and will make it easier for clinicians to administer the flu vaccine and ensure more children are protected from influenza.”
Australia breathed a collective sigh of relief yesterday as the Government announced a temporary cut to fuel excise, halving it for the next three months and delivering immediate, tangible relief at the bowser. With prices expected to drop by around 25 cents per litre, households and businesses alike gain a much-needed buffer against rising living costs. Timed just ahead of the Easter holidays, the measure offers both financial breathing room and renewed optimism, easing pressure on everyday Australians. Starting April 1, the $2.55 billion initiative is set to shave nearly $20 off a standard 65-litre tank, proof that even short-term action can make a meaningful difference.
By Victoria Velton
Despite yesterday’s announcement, global fuel pressures are still intensifying and Hinchinbrook is beginning to feel the ripple effects of a deepening national supply crisis. In a region where heavy industry and large-scale farming underpin the local economy, even minor disruptions quickly filter down to the paddock and the petrol pump.
But some relief is on the way as on Monday 30 March, excise cuts of about 25 cents per litre were announced.
With the local economy so closely tied to the land, these disruptions hit harder here than in the cities. They place a burden on growers and small businesses, who are trying to keep tractors moving and the community running while navigating a global crisis. Rising prices add a mounting weight to an industry that already carries so much of the region’s economic load.
Queensland's Deputy Premier, the Honourable Jarrod Bleijie, on March 13 underlined the scale of the problem. “Queenslanders were standing up – we listened – and represented their concerns to the Commonwealth,” he said.
“We sounded the alarm after hearing stories from Queenslanders about how they couldn’t turn on their tractors to make a living or fill up their cars because whole towns were running out of fuel.”
On March 26, Bob Katter, KAP Federal Member for Kennedy, joined independent parliamentarians from across Australia to demand urgent national solutions to secure fuel for families, farmers, transport, and regional industries.
“The biggest oil crisis the world has ever seen impels the immediate enforcement, in full, of existing ethanol and biodiesel mandates in Queensland and New South Wales – along with urgent expansion to 10 per cent ethanol-blended petrol nationally – to ensure we use all that we grow in thriving regional industries.”
Wayde Chiesa, MP for Hinchinbrook, described the local consequences.
“Hinchinbrook is feeling this crisis hard because fuel is not optional in our region — it underpins our farms, our freight, our fishing sector and everyday family life.
“The Crisafulli Government was the first to raise these concerns with the Federal Government because we were listening to regional communities like Hinchinbrook, and we could see early that this was bigger than a local price spike.
“This is a national fuel security issue requiring a national response, which is why we are calling for clear, daily information through a National Fuel Dashboard and, most importantly, for fuel to start flowing reliably into regional Queensland.”
Hinchinbrook Shire Council Mayor Ramon Jayo emphasised local vigilance amid uncertainty in global fuel markets.
“Given the ongoing instability in global fuel markets driven by the conflict in the Middle East, it is important that we stay abreast of the current situation in our region. Council will proactively assess and plan for potential impacts to local fuel supply, and whilst fuel supply chains out of Townsville remain available at this time, national pressures and isolated shortages across Queensland highlight the need for continued vigilance.
“Our district’s main fuel source is out of Townsville, and Council is grateful for the assistance of Townsville City Council for ongoing information regarding the current situation of fuel stocks through the port. Additionally, information is being provided by the Local Government Association of Queensland through its involvement with the Queensland Government taskforce regarding the wider situation, and we will share any information and updates as we receive them.
“We must remember that our collective North Queensland region remains in the high‑risk weather season, and any significant natural disaster could rapidly compound fuel availability issues.”
The Australian Government retains national responsibility for fuel security, working with States and Territories to manage distribution. Appointing Anthea Harris as the Fuel Supply Taskforce Coordinator to strengthen and manage supply chain volatility related to Middle East conflicts.
Energy Minister Chris Bowen has approved temporary adjustments to diesel standards for six months to increase availability, supported by industry bodies including the National Transport Commission and Truck Industry Council, Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries, and the Australian Automobile Association.
Despite stable local conditions, Hinchinbrook faces several emerging pressure points: potential fuel rationing, ongoing inflationary pressures, and further disruptions to crude production or shipping insurance. Council has begun developing a Business Continuity Plan to ensure critical services such as water, sewerage, and disaster preparedness remain operational.
Despite stable local fuel supply conditions in Hinchinbrook, significant uncertainty remains at a national and global level. Hinchinbrook Shire Council Mayor Ramon Jayo is urging residents and businesses to plan ahead as pressures mount, particularly with the region’s heavy reliance on fuel and the added risks of the ongoing wet season. With national coordination still evolving and global instability continuing to impact supply chains, local leaders are calling for preparedness across the community. Key concerns include:
• Whether the Commonwealth will implement fuel rationing, and what that would mean for Townsville’s allocations
• Further impacts arising from the Middle East conflict, including disruptions to crude production or shipping insurance
• Ongoing inflationary pressure, with fuel price increases likely to amplify cost-of-living impacts on the community and business sectors
Council has commenced work on its Business Continuity Plan to ensure preparedness in the event of prolonged fuel disruption, with advice to be shared with the community if required.
“Matters for Council to consider include ensuring fuel supplies remain available for critical services such as water and sewerage operations and disaster preparedness. To achieve this, business‑as‑usual operations such as mowing may need to be reduced, and these are some of the matters currently being assessed. Any service‑level changes driven by fuel issues will, of course, be communicated to the community immediately,” Mayor Ramon Jayo said.
“I recommend that all businesses — and indeed all members of our community —consider their own personal circumstances and prepare a plan to manage any disruption that may arise in your business or daily life if required.”
Residents who are seeing or experiencing any issues with fuel availability are encouraged to report them to help build an accurate, real-time picture for ongoing planning. The “No Fuel Here” website has been established to capture community reports of shortages and any informal rationing, supporting broader national response efforts.
“In much the same way as our usual wet-season planning, let us all consider what might happen and develop our ‘what if’ plans,” Mayor Jayo said.
Something exciting is coming to Mission Beach, with locals and visitors invited to celebrate the revitalised town centre at a two-day community event this April.
The “Meet us in Mission” celebration will take place on Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 April 2026 at Porter Promenade, bringing together the community for a weekend of free activities, entertainment and beachside fun.
Festivities will kick off early on Saturday morning at 7am with a refreshed route for the popular Paradise Run. From there, the town centre will come alive with live music, beach games, tai chi, face painting, children’s activities, belly dancing, a fashion parade, crab races and prize giveaways. Local businesses will also be offering food and drink specials throughout the day.
Sunday will continue the celebrations with the Mission Beach Markets, alongside three Wearable Weaving workshops for those keen to get creative.
Event organisers say the weekend is designed to showcase everything that makes Mission Beach special, with activities catering to families, visitors and locals alike. All events are free to attend, and some activities can be booked in advance through the events calendar.
Attendees will also have the chance to win a prize pack valued at more than $1,500 by supporting participating town centre businesses.
The celebration marks the completion of the Mission Beach Town Centre Revitalisation Project — a major upgrade aimed at enhancing the heart of the coastal community.
Mission Beach, known for being home to Australia’s second-largest lowland rainforest and the country’s highest density of cassowaries, has not seen significant investment in its town centre since the 1970s.
The revitalisation project has delivered key improvements including upgraded amenities, better lighting, enhanced pedestrian access, increased shade and improved stormwater infrastructure. The upgrades are expected to create a safer, more welcoming environment for both residents and visitors.
The project is also designed to support long-term growth in the region by boosting tourism, supporting local businesses and creating a more vibrant community space.
Funding for the project was jointly provided by the Australian Government, Queensland Government and the Cassowary Coast Regional Council.
Mayor Teresa Millwood said the project would help unlock the region’s tourism potential.
“This project has brought this iconic destination to life – unleashing Mission Beach’s tremendous tourism potential and creating opportunities for investment, economic growth, and prosperity.
“The works weren’t easy, and I thank the community for sticking with us. Your resilience, patience, and the way you’ve worked with us through all the ups and downs has been fantastic.
“I thank all Cassowary Coast Regional Council staff, contractors, and Councillors who have been involved. This has been one of the biggest projects in our region, and their dedication and hard work should be acknowledged.”
Councillor Trudy Tschui said the transformation had created a more inviting space for both locals and visitors.
“The revitalisation project has transformed the heart of Mission Beach. It’s a vibrant, welcoming, accessible and family-friendly place that invites visitors and locals to linger longer.
“Meet us in Mission on 18 and 19 April! It’s a great opportunity to come together as a community, support our local businesses, and enjoy everything the town centre has to offer.”
The “Meet us in Mission” event will run from 7am to 5pm on both days, with organisers encouraging everyone to come along and be part of the celebration.
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The Seymour River Bridge on the Bruce Highway is once again at the centre of concern for local residents and businesses, following another wet season that left the vital transport corridor cut off for periods at a time. While the region’s flood plains make complete flood-proofing impossible, questions are mounting about storm-proofing and what is being done to reduce repeated closures.
Residents say the disruption is more than an inconvenience, as 250 local families from the Mount Gardiners Road and Seymour communities rely on this section of the Bruce Highway for work, school, and essential services. Each closure halts freight, delays produce and supplies and affects tourism and local businesses. Consistently, the highway has been cut at Seymour every wet season.
One concerned local, Gilbert James, highlighted the ongoing issue in a letter to the paper, stressing that storm-proofing is absolutely needed. He said the nearby Log Creek bridge also requires urgent attention, as residents of Mount Fox, Abergowrie, and Trebonne struggle to access Ingham for work, shopping, or medical services when the crossing is closed.
Hinchinbrook Shire Mayor, Ramon Jayo, said council has been actively advocating for improvements with the State Government.
“The issue with the Seymour, it's a state control road, which means it's a road under the control of the state government, and so it's not a council road. So our role in that regard has been an advocacy role, bringing to the attention of the state government the issues that we've got,”
He continued to affirm that the predominant issues are consistently heavy, high millimetre rainfalls.
“The road closes for a day or even more. The problem that creates is we have a lot of people who live on the north side in our Hinchinbrook Shire, so they can't come to work, the kids can't come to school, their businesses all close.
“But on top of that, it brings the National Highway to a close.”
A lot of product that comes down from the Tablelands and beyond has to travel through Hinchinbrook to the Brisbane markets. And with the semi-trailers pulled up on the roadside, no products are going in either direction on our segment of the Bruce.
The mayor acknowledged the distinction between flood-proofing and storm-proofing.
“It is a floodplain, and we will never, ever be able to flood-proof it. But the issue is that we should not expect a storm to close the road, and even in a time of flood, what we should be looking at is limiting the time that the road is actually closed, so that all this product can move, and so that our residents can move.”
He also explained the current status for the Seymour section. “Whilst the works on the Seymour have been approved, particularly part of that $9 billion that's coming from the federal government, what previously was happening, that part of that $9 billion was only there for safety improvement works,” he confirmed.
“There was nothing allocated for flood mitigation works. And that message has now been heard. They are looking at doing some planning to see what they can do as to flood mitigation whilst they do their safety work that needs to be done, and safety is a priority.”
Mayor Jayo said council will now play a more active role in planning discussions. “The Minister has agreed that we will become partners in the whole planning process. And I think that that, in itself, is a very big win for us, because at least then we've got a seat at the table.”
He also addressed interim measures for residents during wet-season closures.
“At the end of the day, we are in a flood plain,” The Mayor stated, “But our main aim here is that we've got to reduce the amount of time that we can't move.
“So instead of there being seven days, we've got to do bring it back down to three days, for instance. Because you can't flood-proof a floodplain, but you can minimise the downtime, and you can minimise the disruption to transport by doing astute works.”
For residents and businesses, the message is cautiously optimistic. While funding for flood mitigation is not yet allocated, planning and advocacy are underway, with a focus on reducing the repeated bottleneck at Seymour and ensuring that storm events have less impact on daily life and the regional economy.
The ongoing push from the community continues to stress that storm-proofing is long overdue. Every wet season without action serves as a reminder of the highway’s critical role in keeping North Queensland connected and its economy moving.
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On April 2nd, 2026, the Barber Shop will celebrate its 10th birthday, a huge achievement! Thank you, everyone, for your support; I really appreciate it.
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Be Safe all, Happy Easter!
From Barber Cyn
Thought for the Day
Hard work always yields its profit, idle talk brings only want. (Proverbs 14:23)
Cassowary Coast residents are being urged to lend a hand in a major revegetation effort, with Council’s Innisfail Nursery calling for donations of native seeds to support upcoming environmental projects.
The initiative, dubbed “The Need for Seed,” aims to help grow between 50,000 and 65,000 trees for local planting programs planned throughout 2026.
With demand for native seedlings on the rise, the nursery team is relying on community contributions to help meet ambitious revegetation targets across the region.
Locals can drop off native seed donations at the Innisfail Nursery, located on the corner of Campbell Street and Sundown Road, on Thursdays during opening hours. After-hours donations can also be left at the designated area beside the nursery gate.
Council says every contribution, big or small, will play an important role in supporting the region’s natural environment, helping to restore habitats, improve biodiversity and strengthen local ecosystems.
The large-scale planting effort is part of ongoing work to enhance green spaces and protect the Cassowary Coast’s unique landscapes for future generations.
Community members are encouraged to get involved, with Council noting that any donation will make a meaningful difference.
“We deeply appreciate any support you can provide.”
Reconstruction works are progressing along Mount Spec Road, and there are 35 damaged sites identified along the route.
Over the past month, you may have noticed crews working on steep sections of the road, including specialists abseiling down damaged upslopes to carry out reconstruction works. Here's what’s happening at each location as works move through the reconstruction phase to restore the road to its pre-event function.
Upslope site 15 (U15) - Formerly known as high-risk site 7 - Workers have been removing loose rocks from the slope in preparation for reconstruction works.
A temporary three-layer shipping-container wall has been installed to maintain safety for road users while permanent reconstruction works are completed. We installed 27 large shipping containers each one weighing about 3.15 tonnes: that’s 85 tonnes of steel in total.
Together, they provide just under 600 cubic metres of capacity. The containers were filled with about 1,070 tonnes of a sand and aggregate mix - that's the equivalent of almost 400 Landcruiser wagon's worth of material delivered and installed on site.
Upslope site 1 (U1) - Similar to a number of sites, at U1, Geobinder, an eco-friendly natural binder, has been sprayed onto the slope to minimise erosion risk until reconstruction works are completed. This site also has a heritage listed stone kerb and channel for directing water runoff. To protect this important asset, a timber protection is installed first to safeguard the stonework prior to the installation of the Geobinder.
Upslope site 2 (U2) - Workers have installed passive fixing dowels to help stabilise the slope. During the past fortnight, crews have drilled holes into the slope, secured steel rods in place with grout (a strong concrete-like material), and have installed weep holes to help release built-up water to reduce pore pressure behind the slope repair.
Upslope site 7 (U7) - Workers have been removing loose rocks from the slope in preparation for reconstruction works. Environmental controls are in place to protect the surrounding environment during the works.
Specialist equipment (depth gauges) has been installed to ensure correct depths are achieved when passive fixing dowels are installed.
These steps are all part of the preparation for the next stage, where a protective concrete layer using Fibre Crete will be sprayed onto the surface.
Upslope site 8 (U8) - Workers have been removing loose rocks from the slope in preparation for reconstruction works.
Workers have been abseiling down the slope to carry out the next stage. They are installing passive fixing dowels, which are strong steel rods placed deep into the rock to help hold it securely in place. To do this, they drill holes into the rock and fill them with grout, a strong concrete-like material that locks the steel rods in position and helps stabilise the slope.
Prepare for unplanned road closures
During the wet season there may be heavy rainfall in the Paluma area which could result in unplanned road closures on Mount Spec Road for safety. Please plan ahead.
Vehicle escort service
Daytime vehicle escort service from 6am to 6pm for approved permit holders. Runs hourly on the hour, for example, 7am, 8am and so on. Final service at 6pm, up and down. Two vehicle escorts operate simultaneously at both gates. Bookings not required.
Nighttime vehicle escort service from 6pm to 6am for exceptional circumstances such as work commitments. Pre-arranged bookings are required, please contact engagement.northern@tmr.qld.gov.au to arrange.
Night works may impact nighttime vehicle escorts. Advance warning will be provided to stakeholders.
Emergency access
TMR has an emergency access process in place during the scheduled road closure period, between 6pm and 6am. In the case of an emergency, please call 000. Traffic controllers are stationed at the top and bottom gates 24/7.
Contributed with thanks by Department of Transport and Main Roads Queensland
Ingham’s next generation of energy workers has officially stepped into the spotlight, with local apprentices among Ergon Energy Network’s newly inducted Northern Stars Class of 2026.
The cohort was welcomed at the Townsville Training Centre, where they began their apprenticeships and got their first taste of life in the energy industry.
“These faces represent the future of energy across a vast region, including Bowen, the Burdekin, Charters Towers, Cloncurry, Ingham, Innisfail, Mount Isa and Townsville,” Ergon Energy Network said.
For communities like Ingham, where reliable power is essential for homes, businesses and agriculture, the program plays a vital role in building a skilled local workforce to maintain and strengthen the region’s energy network.
The apprentices will complete a mix of practical, on-the-job training and formal study, gaining the skills needed to work across North Queensland’s diverse and often challenging environments.
As they begin their careers, the new recruits are being encouraged to embrace the opportunity and take pride in the important role they will play in keeping communities connected.
Ergon Energy Network also called on locals to show their support, adding:
“We wish them all the very best for their apprenticeship and beyond.”
With their training now underway, Ingham’s Northern Stars are set to help power the region into the future.
A Local Love Story
June And Doug Dredge Celebrate 70 Years Together
Hinchinbrooke locals June and Doug Dredge are celebrating their 70th anniversary this week, after a lifelong love story.
The pair met at school as teenagers and soon fell in love. They moved from Sydney to the Hinchinbrook region 23 years ago, where they now are full-fledged, integrated members of the community.
Their marriage bore three wonderful children, and seven beautiful grandchildren.
When asked the secret to a long, love-filled marriage, June gave simple, but profound advice:
“You just keep going.”
Whether you agree or disagree she says, “You take life as it comes, together.”
The secret is to maintain trust in the foundations of your relationship and don’t worry if your marriage fluctuates as through the ups and the downs, know that the love will always be there, and every obstacle will pass.
June says spiritedly that sometimes “Life sucks - but just get on with it! Don’t worry - it will come back around.”
Their long relationship is testament to the deep bonds that tie families in our community; a shining example of shining example of choosing love, every day, and walking through life with your most cherished companion by your side.
Queenslanders could soon see some welcome relief on their power bills, with new figures showing electricity prices are set to fall under the latest draft Default Market Offer.
According to the Australian Energy Regulator, residential electricity prices are expected to drop by 10.1 per cent in 2026–27, while small business customers could see a reduction of 12.8 per cent.
The changes form part of the Queensland Government’s Energy Roadmap, aimed at delivering more affordable, reliable and sustainable power across the state.
Treasurer and Minister for Energy David Janetzki said the draft determination showed progress after a period of rising costs.
“The draft Default Market Offer from the Australian Energy Regulator demonstrates that the Energy Roadmap is putting downward pressure on power prices, as we said it would,” Treasurer Janetzki said.
“Under Labor power prices soared by 19.9% in a single year due to Labor’s failure to properly maintain our power plants. The Government is doing its bit to put downward pressure on power bills and it is now up to retailers to ensure savings are passed to customers.”
The Default Market Offer acts as a benchmark for electricity retailers, setting the maximum price for customers on standard contracts.
The regulator is expected to finalise the determination in May, with a separate announcement for regional Queensland to follow in the coming weeks.
The Government is delivering more affordable power for Queenslanders, with the default electricity reference price set to drop by more than 10 per cent next financial year. Photo source: Shutterstock
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Felix has been in the Real Estate Industry for 44 years and counting. His Grandfather started in Ingham in 1923 at the now location of United Petrol Service Station, where it was called the Central Sale Yards.
“He passed the Real Estate Business to Bert Reitano, my uncle, who arranged me to do an Auctioneers Course in 1982. On his retirement my Uncle Bert handed me the Auction Bell which we still ring before every Auction.”
The Family Business has prided itself in providing honest and knowledgeable service to all their clients on a 7 day a week basis. Amongst other accolades over the years, Felix was awarded Life Membership from the REIQ in 2024.
Advice for prospective buyers?
“Buy within your means first. Do your research about the property you are interested in. If you want a lifestyle that has great people values with the natural attractions, we have them for you when investing into the Hinchinbrook Shire”
Caption: Felix Reitano with the Auction Bell in hand. Photo sourced: Felix Reitano Real Estate
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