Did you know the TYTO Wetlands aren’t named for a vibe — they’re named for the Eastern Grass Owl (Tyto longimembris)? These long-legged, ghost-gliding hunters cruise low at dusk, building secret “tunnels” through tall grass like nature’s own subway system. Owl-right impressive.

But TYTO isn’t just about one star bird. Since the TYTO Restoration Project began in the late 1990s, a once-degraded floodplain has transformed into one of regional Queensland’s most accessible urban nature hubs. Today you’ll find around 4 km of flat, pram-friendly paths, four bird hides, and an 11-metre observation tower — all just minutes from Ingham’s main street.

More than 230 bird species have been recorded here, from jacanas tip-toeing lily pads to raptors riding thermals, with wallabies grazing the edges at first light. Start at the Visitor Information Centre for the latest sightings. Sunrise and dusk are peak owl-clock. Feathered fame guaranteed.

Plan it: hinchinbrookway.com.au

The Cardwell RSL opened the doors for 2026 on Sunday 8th February with their AGM and fundraiser barbeque.  The general meeting saw an exceptional attendance of 25 committee members.

The RSL was buzzing with activity, as the community gathered to show their support and band together for an important cause.

“We look forward to another productive year in 2026. We’re delighted to have the communities support”, said President Robert Lang.

2026 will bring no shortage of important events with ANZAC Day, Remembrance Day and Vietnam Veterans Day serving as important occasions through which the RSL is able to celebrate and commemorate the community.

“Over the last five years, it’s just gotten better. From 2021 onwards we’ve seen the trajectory go upwards.”

The RSL’s success has seen the team afford the opportunity to give back to the community, providing support to various schools and social clubs in the area.

“We spread the life and we’re very happy to do it.”

If you’re interested in supporting the RSL, there are numerous ways to get involved.

“Come to our barbecues. Come and join the bingo. By supporting us, we can maintain the building and maintain the overheads and costs. The more public support we get, the better.”

2026 looks to be another fruitful year for the Cardwell RSL. It is great to see the ongoing community support and interest by the public is greatly encouraged. A fine effort for Rob and the team!!

RSL President Robert Lang with Erin Johnson and Julie Tepaz

Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi

Sporting clubs and community organisations across the Hinchinbrook Shire are being encouraged to take advantage of a major new funding opportunity aimed at upgrading grassroots sporting infrastructure.

The Queensland Government has launched the $30 million Games On! Grassroots Infrastructure Program, designed to support local organisations in improving sporting facilities and creating new community spaces ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Eligible clubs and organisations must register their interest by 18 March 2026 to be considered for funding.

The program is delivered through two funding streams. The Field of Play stream supports smaller, community-level infrastructure projects such as shade structures, LED lighting and upgrades to existing facilities, helping more people participate in sport and physical activity. The Partnership Fund focuses on larger-scale developments, including clubhouses and multi-use precincts that create inclusive, fit-for-purpose spaces for both local use and potential future events.

Under the Field of Play stream, funding of between $50,000 and $499,999 is available for projects located within urban and regional local government areas, with a co-contribution of approximately 20 per cent of eligible project costs. Projects in remote, very remote and discrete communities may be eligible for higher funding amounts and reduced or nil co-contributions, depending on location.

The Games On! program forms part of the Queensland Government’s broader vision to keep Queensland at the forefront of Australian sport while ensuring the benefits of major events extend beyond stadiums and into local communities.

As preparations continue for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the initiative aims to back the volunteers, clubs and facilities that support grassroots sport, delivering lasting benefits for communities across the state.

Clubs and organisations interested in applying can register their interest and access further information through the Queensland Government website. Enquiries can also be directed to gameson@sport.qld.gov.au or by calling 13 QGOV (13 74 68) between 8am and 6pm, Monday to Friday.

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Hiya Hinchinbrook Shire, It’s been a big week for news, with so much happening that our paper feels like it’s bursting. With Tones & I coming to our little town, Felix Reitano being honoured with an OAM, and the 15th anniversary of Cyclone Yasi, it was hard to fnd room for all the stories unfolding across Hinchinbrook! Tis will also be the edition where I announce I’ll be on holiday for two weeks, but not to worry, my colleague Sebastian will be flling in as journalist on the ground in Hinchinbrook. So all your stories will still have an ear to bend and someone to report on them. I’ll be heading of to a very large family reunion for a special occasion... My great-grandmother is turning 100! She’s an amazing lady and the heart of our family, and I can only hope to be half as wonderful as her when I reach her age. Victoria Fun fact: My great-grandmother is still sharp as a tack. Her hobbies include beating both my grandmother and mother in crossword puzzles, and teaching us all new words in Scrabble.

Cassowary Coast Regional Council crews were applauded last week in recognition of Council’s swift response and tireless efforts to clean-up and reopen Alender Drive. On Monday evening last week, heavy rainfall saturated the region, causing approximately 400 to 500 tonnes of material to shift above the road, however crews were immediately on the ground, ready to reopen drainage and reconnect communities, and clear debris. Residents strongly thanked crews and contractors for working quickly to reconnect communities and Cassowary Coast Regional Council advised the site will continue to be monitored throughout the wet weather period.

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While yet another wet weather event was happening in North Queensland, the Governor of Queensland hosted a private Investiture Ceremony in Ingham to honour one of the region’s most respected community fgures, Mr Felix Reitano OAM. Te ceremony, held at the Hinchinbrook Shire Library, brought together Mr Reitano’s family and close friends, along with community leaders including Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa MP, Hinchinbrook Shire Mayor Cr Ramon Jayo and Townsville City Council Mayor Cr Nick Dametto. Mr Reitano received the Medal of the Order of Australia in recognition of decades of service to business and the Hinchinbrook community, including civic leadership, volunteer work, military service and advocacy for veterans and local history. In her address, the Governor highlighted the qualities that have guided his service: integrity, kindness and a commitment to helping others, and spoke of the resilience of the Reitano family, whose century-old business has survived foods and fres to remain a part of Ingham’s story. “At a time when many communities are once again facing challenging conditions, the ceremony was a reminder of the quiet leadership and shared efort that strengthen communities in times of adversity,” she said. Mr Reitano, refecting on the recognition, said it had never been something he expected. “I think that you do community work for the community and so be it. What comes along afer that is a bonus. I’ve been involved over the years in many diferent sporting events, cultural events, business events and military events, and you just do what you’re asked to do and go from there.” His dedication to service, he explained, is part of a family tradition. “We have always been (volunteering), going back to my grandfather’s days and my father’s days. Te Work that my son Peter does in the community seems like a natural progression from one generation to the next”. Mr Reitano spoke of the variety of roles he has taken on in the community, from being a JP for nearly 50 years, a member of the Chamber of Commerce, Anzac Day Parade Marshall, being involved in the Texas Terror celebrations, through sporting organisations, and with his own business. “Our family business, that has been operating for over 100 years in the Herbert River district, is still going strong. Te important thing, I think, is you just have to do the best for all members of the community, whether race, colour or creed. We all bleed red. So we need to make this place a better place for everyone.” Mr Reitano described Hinchinbrook as a community that supports everyone, regardless of background, saying, “I think it’s a great community. No matter who you are, what race or religion you are, what ethnic background you come from, you do the right thing and this community will support you”. Felix thanked his family, friends, colleagues and especially his wife Judy for supporting him over the many years, upholding long generations of family and friendship values. He acknowledged that his wife Judy deserves half of this award. “It was a team efort to help me achieve this award”. For Mr Reitano, the OAM refects a lifetime of service rooted in family, tradition and a genuine love for his region. His dedication shows that leadership is ofen quiet and that generosity ofen goes unseen, but it is these eforts that strengthen a community and help it thrive. Mr Reitano’s story is a reminder of the diference one person can make, when commitment is made to a community.

The Cassowary Coast community came together at the Tully Country Club on Friday, 23 January, to celebrate Australia Day and honour the individuals and groups whose dedication continues to strengthen the region. Te 2026 Australia Day Awards recognised outstanding contributions across a wide range of felds, highlighting the generosity, leadership and community spirit that help make the Cassowary Coast a great place to live. Tis year’s award recipients included Citizen of the Year Ken English; Young Citizen of the Year Caleb Wodzislawski; Lifetime Contribution Award recipient Margaret Dineen; Arts and Culture Award winners Tales From Our Early Pioneers Bus Trip; Community/Project of the Year, the Tully Mill 100 Celebration; Community Group Award recipients Cardwell RSL Sub Branch; Innovation and Excellence Award recipient Dr Adele Pile; STEM Award in Education winner Callum Saunders; Service to Sport Award recipient Shayne Cini; Sportsperson of the Year Kodi Worth; Sustainable Environment Award recipients GBR Safaris, Girringun Aboriginal Corporation and Mandubarra Aboriginal Land and Sea Incorporated; Young Arts and Culture Award winner Oscar Van Haaren; and Young Sportsperson of the Year Mackenzie Law. Cassowary Coast Mayor Teresa Millwood said the awards shine a light on the quiet achievers whose eforts ofen go unnoticed. “Tese awards celebrate the inspiring individuals who work quietly and consistently to make life better for others. Teir dedication is at the heart of what makes the Cassowary Coast such a special place to live,” Mayor Millwood said. Citizen of the Year Ken English was recognised for his exceptional voluntary leadership and long-standing commitment to community safety in Cardwell. As Commander of the Cardwell Coast Guard, Mr English played a pivotal role in restoring the Coast Guard Flotilla from closure to a fully operational and highly respected emergency service. Mr English has contributed thousands of volunteer hours to vessel maintenance, base and yard upkeep, saving the organisation tens of thousands of dollars in servicing and repair costs. He has also logged more than 1,000 volunteer hours on radio watch alone, coordinated marine rescues, organised training runs, managed crew rostering and radio operations, led fundraising eforts, recruited new volunteers and mentored members into leadership roles. Alongside his wife Jackie, Mr English has sacrifced personal time, holidays and weekends to ensure the fotilla remains operational and ready to assist vessels in distress. “I would just like to say thank you, particularly to Matt and Mark for nominating me. I’d really like to thank the people of Cardwell and the many people who have contributed to the Coast Guard. I believe this award really refects Cardwell and the people of the Coast Guard, past and present. All I can say is thank you,” Mr English said. Young Citizen of the Year Caleb Wodzislawski was recognised for his strong commitment to volunteering and community involvement in Innisfail over the past three years. Mr Wodzislawski has volunteered extensively at Riverfest, assisting with event set-up, patron support, pack-down and supporting fellow volunteers. He has also helped community members by pressure washing properties and removing unwanted items, contributing to a cleaner and more welcoming environment. As a member of the Cassowary Coast Regional Council Youth Advisory Committee, Mr Wodzislawski actively contributes his ideas to local decision-making and civic life. “Tis award is mostly from my involvement in Riverfest – and like my dad says, anything that is good for the community is good for us,” Mr Wodzislawski said.

The Cassowary Coast community came together at the Tully Country Club on Friday, 23 January, to celebrate Australia Day and honour the individuals and groups whose dedication continues to strengthen the region. Te 2026 Australia Day Awards recognised outstanding contributions across a wide range of felds, highlighting the generosity, leadership and community spirit that help make the Cassowary Coast a great place to live. Tis year’s award recipients included Citizen of the Year Ken English; Young Citizen of the Year Caleb Wodzislawski; Lifetime Contribution Award recipient Margaret Dineen; Arts and Culture Award winners Tales From Our Early Pioneers Bus Trip; Community/Project of the Year, the Tully Mill 100 Celebration; Community Group Award recipients Cardwell RSL Sub Branch; Innovation and Excellence Award recipient Dr Adele Pile; STEM Award in Education winner Callum Saunders; Service to Sport Award recipient Shayne Cini; Sportsperson of the Year Kodi Worth; Sustainable Environment Award recipients GBR Safaris, Girringun Aboriginal Corporation and Mandubarra Aboriginal Land and Sea Incorporated; Young Arts and Culture Award winner Oscar Van Haaren; and Young Sportsperson of the Year Mackenzie Law. Cassowary Coast Mayor Teresa Millwood said the awards shine a light on the quiet achievers whose eforts ofen go unnoticed. “Tese awards celebrate the inspiring individuals who work quietly and consistently to make life better for others. Teir dedication is at the heart of what makes the Cassowary Coast such a special place to live,” Mayor Millwood said. Citizen of the Year Ken English was recognised for his exceptional voluntary leadership and long-standing commitment to community safety in Cardwell. As Commander of the Cardwell Coast Guard, Mr English played a pivotal role in restoring the Coast Guard Flotilla from closure to a fully operational and highly respected emergency service. Mr English has contributed thousands of volunteer hours to vessel maintenance, base and yard upkeep, saving the organisation tens of thousands of dollars in servicing and repair costs. He has also logged more than 1,000 volunteer hours on radio watch alone, coordinated marine rescues, organised training runs, managed crew rostering and radio operations, led fundraising eforts, recruited new volunteers and mentored members into leadership roles. Alongside his wife Jackie, Mr English has sacrifced personal time, holidays and weekends to ensure the fotilla remains operational and ready to assist vessels in distress. “I would just like to say thank you, particularly to Matt and Mark for nominating me. I’d really like to thank the people of Cardwell and the many people who have contributed to the Coast Guard. I believe this award really refects Cardwell and the people of the Coast Guard, past and present. All I can say is thank you,” Mr English said. Young Citizen of the Year Caleb Wodzislawski was recognised for his strong commitment to volunteering and community involvement in Innisfail over the past three years. Mr Wodzislawski has volunteered extensively at Riverfest, assisting with event set-up, patron support, pack-down and supporting fellow volunteers. He has also helped community members by pressure washing properties and removing unwanted items, contributing to a cleaner and more welcoming environment. As a member of the Cassowary Coast Regional Council Youth Advisory Committee, Mr Wodzislawski actively contributes his ideas to local decision-making and civic life. “Tis award is mostly from my involvement in Riverfest – and like my dad says, anything that is good for the community is good for us,” Mr Wodzislawski said.

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If you’re chasing warm weather, open water and unforgettable fishing, Lucinda Point Hotel is your perfect escape. Located on the edge of the Hinchinbrook Channel and just minutes from the Great Barrier Reef, Lucinda offers some of the most diverse fishing grounds in Queensland. From calm estuaries to open reef waters, this is a destination built for anglers, adventurers, and anyone who loves the outdoors. Spend your days exploring: World-class barra fishing in creeks and mangroves Ofshore reef fishing for coral trout, trevally and red emperor Boating and island hopping around Hinchinbrook Island Scenic hikes, waterfalls and rainforest trails After a big day on the water, kick back at the Lucinda Point Hotel. Enjoy a cold drink at the bar, a hearty meal, relaxed accommodation and friendly local hospitality — all in one laid-back coastal town. people coming back. Whether you’re travelling by caravan, tow- Stay. Fish. Explore. Relax. in a boat, or planning a fishing getaway, Lucinda is the kind of place that keeps Discover why Lucinda is one of North Queensland’s best-kept secrets.

STRONG PROGRESS ON CAPITAL WORKS AND DISASTER RECOVERY ACROSS THE REGION

Iam pleased to advise that, despite the signifcant disruptions to business-as-usual caused by weather events over the past two years, Hinchinbrook Shire Council has remained on track with the delivery of its adopted Capital Works Programmes. Tese programmes are designed to ensure that infrastructure, facilities, and community assets are either improved or maintained in the best possible condition to support the longterm sustainability and beneft of our community. Due to the nature, complexity, and scale of many projects, most capital works are planned and delivered over a multi-year timeframe. Works completed to date include: Te construction of a new bridge on Copleys Road, Abergowrie Telemetry system upgrades to digitise and improve remote access and connectivity across essential water and sewerage operations Pavement renewal and road widening along Cooks Lane and Pappins Road Reconstruction of the Taylors Beach revetment wall Clearing works along the Lucinda foreshore; and Te delivery of new and upgraded campground facilities at the Mt Fox camping area. In addition to these specifc projects, Council maintains a continuous rolling programme for the maintenance and replacement of critical infrastructure. Tis includes road resheeting, bitumen road resealing, and water and sewer main replacements. Under normal circumstances, works are guided by Council’s asset management plans—mandatory documents that outline condition monitoring and reporting requirements, component life cycles, and defned intervention levels to ensure asset longevity and operational capability. Counter-disaster operations resulting from the 2025 rain event were substantial, given the severity and extended duration of the event, with costs exceeding $2.5 million. Counter- disaster operations refer to immediate response activities undertaken before, during, and shortly afer a disaster event to protect public safety and minimise damage to property and infrastructure. Council has progressed — and continues to progress — the reconstruction of essential public assets, primarily roads throughout the district, including the Mt Fox Range. Te counter-disaster operational costs and projects are jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) and administered through the Queensland Reconstruction Authority. If you are interested in learning more, information regarding Council’s work programmes, performance, progress, and expenditure is publicly available through monthly reports tabled at Council’s General Meetings. Tese reports can be accessed via Council’s website at: https://www.hinchinbrook.qld.gov. au/our-council/meetings-and-minutes/

As we step into 2026, I want to take a moment to refect on the festive spirit of the Christmas and New Year season while welcoming our teachers and students back to school. This time of year is not only about celebration but also about new beginnings and the opportunities that lie ahead in education. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated educators who play a vital role in shaping the future of our young minds. It’s also important to acknowledge a signifcant milestone for our community. Tis marks one year since the devastating weather event that impacted our shire, the worst we have faced since 1967. During this challenging time, I have been truly inspired by the resilience and determination of our residents. Together, we have worked tirelessly to rebuild and support one another. We acknowledged the community with a Flood Heroes Recognition at Australia Day, as well as our Australia Day award recipients — congratulations to all. However, we must remember that the journey is not yet complete. Many of our residents are still facing challenges, with some yet to return to their homes. As we move forward, we must continue to show compassion and solidarity, ensuring that everyone in our community has the support they need. Let us embrace the new school year as well as our business community with hope and enthusiasm while remaining committed to rebuilding and revitalising our beloved shire. Together, we can create a brighter future for all. Wishing everyone a successful and fulflling year ahead!

Yanks Jetty, managed by Hinchinbrook Shire Council, is both a historical landmark and a gateway to some of the most stunning turquoise waters around Orpheus Island? Located on the south-west side of Orpheus Island of the Hinchinbrook coast, Yanks Jetty sits above crystal-clear tropical seas on the edge of the Great Barrier Reef — waters prized for snorkelling, marine life and colourful coral just a short swim from the pontoon. Te jetty’s name comes from its role in World War II when the site hosted a degaussing (demagnetising) station used by American naval vessels to reduce their magnetic signatures and protect them from mines. Over the years it has endured storms and cyclones, including signifcant damage from Cyclone Yasi, and has been repaired and restored. Today, Yanks Jetty is a beloved destination for day visitors, boaters and campers, blending rich wartime history with breathtaking natural beauty.

With 2026 now in full swing, In early 2025, QFF and industry partners Crisis Communications Queensland Farmers’ Feder-welcomed the reinstatement of the 80:20 Training Program and ation (QFF) President, Aaron funding split for works on the Bruce High-SmartAg Queensland, Kiely, took a moment to reflect on the way, with Kiely highlighting QFF’s role on with Kiely noting wel­challenges and the opportunities that de-the Bruce Highway Advisory Council and coming Premier David fined regional agriculture across the state planned involvement in any future proj-Crisafulli MP to the in 2025. ects. 2025 National Agricul­ture Day Breakfast as a
“As we begin a new year, it’s worth reflect-Kiely also remembered the catastroph­highly memorable mo­ing on the challenges and opportunities ic floods that devastated the West and
ment.
that defined Queensland agriculture in Far North, as well as QFF’s momentous 2025 - a year marked by strong engage-achievement of redefining “primary pro-“2026 will be an import-a new CEO,” Kiely said.
ment, meaningful reform and close col-ducer” to expand access to disaster assis-ant year for our members, with CANE­laboration across our members, produc-tance and allow crop replacement to be GROWERS marking 100 years, Cotton “QFF looks forward to working with our ers, industry partners and government,” included in disaster grants. Several other Australia’s Cotton Conference returning members to drive a productive and resil­he said. projects were spotlighted including the to the Gold Coast, and QFVG welcoming ient future for Queensland agriculture.”

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QFF President, Aaron Kiely, is looking forward to
To A Resilient 2026 a prosperous 2026. Photo credit: Shutterstock

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Applications for the fourth round of the Traceability Grants Program will close on 18 February 2026, giving farmers, producers, and industry groups just two weeks left to secure funding.
The program, part of the National Agricultur­al Traceability Strategy 2023–2033, supports collaborative projects that enhance traceability systems in Australian agriculture over the first five years of the strategy.
The Australian Government has committed $4 million to this round, offering grants ranging from $50,000 to $500,000 for projects that:
Align processes and technology to collect data that meets regulatory requirements and pro­vides valuable feedback to farmers.
Support industry adoption of interoperable traceability systems.
Implement communication and education campaigns to boost awareness of agricultural traceability.
Improve systems that track and trace agricul­tural products through export supply chains.
Help exporters remain competitive in global markets.
Encourage more farmers and processors—par­ticularly those handling high-value products— to explore exporting.
Ensure cost-effective solutions by using existing systems and technology wherever possible.
The Traceability Grants Program is part of a broader effort to modernise Australia’s agri­cultural supply chains, providing farmers with the tools to meet regulatory standards while ex­panding opportunities in international markets.
For more information and to apply, visit the Traceability Grants Program website before the deadline on 18 February 2026.

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Feral pig and woody weed control programs are beginning in the Herbert catchment as Terrain NRM and its partners intensify efforts to improve water quality in a river system extending from west of Mt Garnet to the floodplain around Ingham.

Five projects are now being rolled out as the first stage of the Herbert Integrated Project’s on-ground works, and Terrain NRM Project Manager Fiona Barron said there were more to follow. One of the first is a feral pig management initiative led by Hinchinbrook Shire Council.

“Feral pigs are a major problem for the environment and also for the sugar cane industry and other farming industries in the Herbert,” Ms Barron said. “Pigs churn up soil and vegetation and damage wetlands and riverbanks, which releases nutrients and can spread pathogens.”

Hinchinbrook Shire Council will build on an existing control program by using emerging surveillance and control technologies, including AI-enabled cameras. A remote-triggering feral-tech trap door will also be trialled near a coastal community where traditional systems have been unsuccessful.

In the upper Herbert, stakeholders identified the thickening of invasive woody weeds, such as lantana, as a priority.

“Dense thickets of woody weeds are a problem for graziers because they lead to less soil protection and pasture,” Ms Barron said.

“Part of the project will involve working with graziers on trials of different burn approaches at different times of the year to determine the most effective way of tackling woody weeds so that we can share best practice with other landholders.”

Other projects include developing a whole-of-catchment management plan, supporting cane farmers through integrated whole-of-farm planning led by Herbert Cane Productivity Services Ltd, and synthesising past and present water quality monitoring data to better understand what’s happening across the catchment and help farmers and the wider community. There will also be a focus on circular economy opportunities and natural capital capacity-building within the Herbert catchment area.

Ms Barron said the Herbert Integrated Project was being driven by the community, and Terrain NRM was working with a wide range of partners and community groups.

“We have engaged widely with stakeholders across the upper and lower Herbert catchment to understand how the catchment can be managed as one integrated system - to not only improve water quality but also deliver broader community and landscape benefits,” she said.

“For over a decade, farmers and the agricultural sector have achieved substantial reductions in nutrient, pesticide and sediment runoff to the Reef through improved land management. This new investment will extend that and explore more opportunities to generate social and economic benefits for the community.

“The Queensland Government is investing in place-based approaches to reef water quality, which means the people who live and work in the catchment and who know the landscape best are helping to shape the initiatives we deliver — and viewing the catchment as one connected system.

“Because the project is community-driven, we can also leverage this investment to deliver social and economic co-benefits for the local community and First Nations people. It will help to create a legacy of stewardship for the future.

“A healthier, more sustainable catchment is better for everyone.”

The Herbert Integrated Project is funded through the Queensland Government’s Queensland Reef Water Quality Program and delivered by Terrain NRM in partnership with many stakeholders, including Hinchinbrook Shire Council, Herbert Cane Productivity Services Ltd, Canegrowers and TropWATER. Find out more about the Herbert Integrated Project here: https://terrain.org.au/what-we-do/waterway-health/herbert-integrated-project/

Find out more about the Queensland Government’s placed-based integrated projects here: https://www.qld.gov.au/environment/agriculture/sustainable-farming/reef/reef-major-projects

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