Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
With nearly two decades in real estate, Nathan Henderson has built a career grounded in experience, local knowledge, and a genuine understanding of people. After working as an agent for several years, he gained his Principal’s licence in 2007, marking the beginning of a long-standing presence in the Hinchinbrook property market. Nathan specialises in residential sales, rentals, and rural properties, with a particular appreciation for the people behind each transaction. “Residential sales and rentals and rural sales are the bulk of our work and having been around for a while, the people are the best part. We are truly grateful when people are referred to us and we have sold to parents and then children in the same family. Being an agent means helping people navigate an important transition in their life.” With a rural background, Nathan values getting out on the land and understanding how properties function within their environment and community. “It’s easy to focus too locally… we take care to understand what is happening outside of our area to ensure we are reacting quickly to changes in our market for clients.” “Understanding what people are aiming to achieve and when, helps us give advice and strategy in selling their property. We assist with the happiest and saddest moments in people's lives and we are always grateful for the trust our clients put in us.” What advice would you give to first-home buyers looking to settle in the region? “Avoid the FOMO, don’t rush unless it’s the right place… build a relationship with agents so you have a chance of seeing things as they come on the market.”
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Caption: Mr Blake and students at the Halifax memorial
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Last week I was in Brisbane for Parliament, continuing to advocate for the issues that matter most to our region, before returning home to spend time across the Hinchinbrook electorate. A key focus during the sitting week was the need for Queensland to become more self-sufficient, particularly when it comes to critical inputs like fuel and fertiliser. For communities like ours, these are important issues that directly impact the cost of living, our farmers, and the strength of our local economy. We have seen how global events can disrupt supply chains and drive-up costs. That’s why I have continued to push for greater sovereign capability, so Queensland is less exposed to international uncertainty. The Crisafulli Government is committed to strengthening this self-sufficiency and ensuring regional communities like Hinchinbrook are better protected into the future. We also passed the third tranche of Adult Crime, Adult Time laws in Parliament. This builds on the work already underway to restore community safety after a decade where victim numbers rose 193% under the former government. While we are starting to see some early signs of progress from stronger laws and a more focused approach, I know from conversations across our community that there is more to do. Turning around long-term challenges takes time, but the commitment remains clear: to back our police, hold offenders accountable, and make our communities safer. On Saturday, I had the privilege of attending a number of ANZAC Day services across the electorate, including the Dawn Service, RSL service, cemetery service, as well as services at Forrest Beach, Halifax and Cardwell. Each service was moving in its own way, and it was encouraging to see such strong attendance across all locations. It speaks to the deep respect our community holds for those who have served, and the importance of continuing to honour their sacrifice. It is always a privilege to stand alongside our community on ANZAC Day and reflect on the values of service, mateship and sacrifice that continue to shape our nation. As always, I will continue to take the voices of Hinchinbrook to Brisbane, while staying closely connected to our community here at home.
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The Crisafulli Government is launching a new international prize for eight high-achieving Queensland students and two teachers. Successful applicants will fly to London to visit the birthplace of Westminster democracy and will undertake trips to Canberra and Brisbane parliaments. Applications for the inaugural program open on Monday 18 May to Queensland Year 9 students. The Crisafulli Government is delivering a plan for Queensland’s future and supporting the State’s students and teachers. The Crisafulli Government is delivering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Queensland students and teachers to experience the birthplace of parliamentary democracy through a prestigious education prize. Launching today, the Westminster Prize is open to all Year 9 students across Queensland’s state schools, non-state schools, and homeschool settings who have a strong interest in civics and citizenship. It’s just one of the ways the Crisafulli Government is delivering a plan for Queensland’s future after a decade of decline under Labor. Eight successful students will fly to London next year with two teacher chaperones to experience first-hand aspects of the Westminster system of government, which is the foundation of Australia’s parliamentary democracy. The prize also includes trips to Canberra and Brisbane parliaments where students will gain valuable knowledge, insights and experiences with Australia’s political system. The Westminster Prize is a new initiative from the Crisafulli Government and adds to existing excellence programs including the Premier’s ANZAC Prize, the Premier’s Reading Challenge and the Peter Doherty Awards. Minister for Education John-Paul Langbroek said the Westminster Prize aimed to strengthen Queensland students’ understanding of civics, citizenship and democratic participation. “This exciting new program offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for our students to travel to London, Canberra and Brisbane to learn about our rich history and political system,” Minister Langbroek said. “Today’s students are our future leaders, and the Crisafulli Government’s new Westminster Prize is a fantastic opportunity for them to travel, explore and deepen their understanding of democratic values. “Through the Westminster Prize, the eight students will grow their understanding of Queensland’s parliamentary system, Australia’s federal democracy and the Westminster model in the UK. “As well as their travels, the prize winners will deliver a local civics project focused on a community issue, applying their learning to real-world contexts.” British Consul General for Queensland and the Northern Territory Richard Cowin said he was delighted to support the fantastic initiative. “This exciting award gives students an amazing opportunity to see how the Westminster system works in real life and to experience the democratic traditions that connect the UK and Australia,” Mr Cowin said. “In a fast-changing world, understanding our shared values and approaches is more important than ever. “This prize will enable a lucky group of young Queenslanders to experience these principles firsthand and draw on them throughout their lives.” Applications to be part of the inaugural Westminster Prize open on 18 May and close 31 July, with interviews and selection in August and September. For more information, visit the website.
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Port Hinchinbrook is a step closer to returning to a thriving destination with early works commencing in preparation of dredging and restoration.
The Government has acquired multiple key sites within the Port Hinchinbrook PPDA, through Economic Development Queensland (EDQ) in a major step forward to deliver a long-awaited solution.
Following community consultation, the State’s first-ever Provisional Land Use Plan also comes into effect by outlining the planning framework to help guide the site’s restoration and future development.
Both the plan and land acquisition allow for the start of early works, with initial repair works to stop acid sulphate soils from leaching into the surrounding mangroves, as soon as weather and ground conditions allow.
Having further explored options and costings for the dredging work, EDQ is procuring a lead contractor to manage the technical experts and work crews needed on site.
The conformed deed which sits over the property will be extinguished.
The milestone comes after the Port Hinchinbrook PPDA was declared in October last year – a landmark move which saw the establishment of Queensland’s first ever PPDA – after the area was devastated by Cyclone Yasi in 2011.
Premier David Crisafulli said the milestone was testament to the Government’s unwavering commitment to delivering a solution to a long-running issue.
“The proud people of Far North Queensland deserve a fast-tracked solution and that’s what are delivering,” Premier Crisafulli said.
“With land acquisition and the Provisional Land Use Plan in place as of today, we are wasting no time starting early works on this important project.
“We are delivering on our promise to restore Port Hinchinbrook as a thriving tourism, commercial and residential precinct.
“This is all about delivering a fresh start and plan for Queensland’s future to restore jobs, tourism and growth to this great part of our State.”
Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jarrod Bleijie said the Queensland Government was focused on swiftly securing a long-term solution to a complex challenge.
“While moving quickly, EDQ is also doing things the right way – solving a wide range of long-running complex issues that have been left unchecked for way too long,” Deputy Premier Bleijie said.
"We've got cracking quickly to fix a long running problem that is a vital asset for the Far North.
“A huge thank you to the local community, industry, the Cassowary Coast Regional Council and other local stakeholders for their support in helping us reach this milestone.
“Together we will secure a solution for the people of Port Hinchinbrook and broader region.”
Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa said the Crisafulli Government was delivering a fresh start to the people of this proud community.
“We made a promise to the people of Hinchinbrook we’d restore Port Hinchinbrook as a thriving tourism, commercial and residential precinct and we’ve taken a major step forward in delivering on that promise,” Chiesa said.
"My role is to be a strong local voice and use my seat at the table to ensure a world class result for the boaties who need access to the Hinchinbrook Channel and those who call this glorious area home.
“While Port Hinchinbrook suffered, local tourism stalled and the community was left without answers, but that’s all changing.”
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Desexing dogs and cats is one of the most common procedures performed in veterinary clinics across Tropical Vets and is one of the most important decisions pet owners make for their animal’s long-term health and welfare. While it is often described as a “routine” surgery, desexing is far from simple. It is a carefully planned medical procedure that requires individual assessment, surgical expertise and a strong focus on animal welfare before, during, and after surgery.
Why Desexing Is No Longer One-Size-Fits-All
Historically, most dogs and cats were desexed at around six months of age. However, developing research over the past decade has shown that this approach is not always in the best interests of every animal. Breed, size, sex, intended use, behaviour and medical risk factors all influence the optimal timing of desexing, particularly in dogs.
Large, working breeds and active dogs as well as pets living on rural or semi-rural properties may have different risk profiles to smaller urban pets. Our Veterinarians are well equipped to answer any questions that you may have, applying the latest scientific knowledge to advise what is best for your pet.
Medical and Behavioural Benefits
From a medical perspective, desexing offers significant benefits. In female dogs, desexing eliminates the risk of pyometra, a life-threatening uterine infection that is commonly seen in middle-aged and older dogs as well as reducing the risk of mammary cancer when performed at an appropriate age. In males, desexing prevents testicular cancer and can reduce the incidence of prostate disease.
Behaviourally, desexing can reduce hormonally driven behaviours such as roaming, urine marking, mounting and some forms of aggression, particularly in male animals. In North Queensland, where roaming increases the risk of heat stress, snake bites, paralysis ticks, road trauma and disease transmission, reducing these behaviours has significant welfare benefits.
In cats, the benefits are clearer and more consistent. Desexing reduces spraying, fighting, roaming and unwanted litters. It also significantly lowers the risk of mammary cancer in female cats and improves overall safety and quality of life for pets.
What’s Involved in a Desexing Procedure
Although desexing is common, it is still major surgery. Every patient undergoes a full clinical examination before anaesthesia and many owners choose to perform pre-anaesthetic blood testing to help identify any underlying health risks. Anaesthetic protocols are selected based on the animal’s age, breed, size, health status and the realities of our tropical climate, where careful temperature and hydration management are essential.
Female desexing involves abdominal surgery and careful ligation of blood vessels, while male desexing requires precise surgical technique to minimise bleeding and post-operative discomfort. Throughout the procedure, patients are continuously monitored by trained Veterinary Nurses using specialised equipment to track heart rate, breathing, blood pressure, oxygen levels and body temperature.
Pain management does not stop when surgery ends. Animals receive post-operative pain relief, close monitoring during recovery and clear aftercare instructions to support healing and comfort at home.
Why Desexing Has a Cost
The cost of desexing reflects far more than the surgery itself. It includes a pre-surgical health check, a carefully designed drug and anaesthetic plan tailored for each individual patient, continuous monitoring of vital parameters and comprehensive pain management before, during, and after the operation. Desexings are performed under a full general anaesthesia and operated on with sterile surgical instruments in a fully equipped theatre.
When discussing costing, there are many factors which are often overlooked. These include the years dedicated to Veterinary and Veterinary Nurse training, the ongoing maintenance of surgical equipment, stockpiling of emergency medications and the clinical standards that every registered practice is required to uphold. Veterinary clinics also invest significant time in follow-up care, including complimentary post-operative checks and client support, to ensure every patient recovers safely. These measures are central to maintaining high standards of animal welfare.
A Commitment to Animal Welfare
Desexing is not about convenience or profit. It is about reducing unwanted litters, preventing disease, improving behaviour and supporting the long-term welfare of pets and the wider North Queensland community. When performed thoughtfully and responsibly, desexing remains a cornerstone of good pet care and responsible pet ownership.
Contributed with thanks to Tropical Vets.
Tec-NQ will proudly host its 2026 Registered Training Organisation (RTO) Awards on Friday 13, March 2026, recognising the outstanding achievements of apprentices, students and industry partners across North Queensland.
The annual awards ceremony celebrates apprentices who have demonstrated exceptional commitment, skill development and dedication to their trade, while also acknowledging the employers and industry partners who support vocational education and workforce development.
The event will bring together apprentices, families, employers, educators, sponsors and community leaders to celebrate success stories emerging from Tec-NQ’s hands-on, work-based training model.
Tec-NQ CEO Ross Jorgensen said the RTO Awards shine a spotlight on the value of vocational education and training in creating real career pathways.
“Our RTO Awards recognise apprentices who are excelling in their trades and employers who are investing in the future of our workforce,” Ross Jorgensen said.
These awards highlight the importance of practical learning and strong industry partnerships in building job-ready and skilled workers.
Award categories will include, but not limited to:
Townsville – Automotive, Electrical, Carpentry Apprentice of the Year
Mackay and Cairns – Electrical Apprentice of the Year
Along with and a range of awards recognising excellence, leadership and dedication across multiple trade areas.
Tec-NQ continues to provide an alternative education pathway for young people, combining trade training with real workplace experience to support successful transitions into apprenticeships and employment.
What: Tec-NQ RTO Awards 2026
When: Friday, 13 March, 6:00pm – 11:00pm
Where: The Ville Pavillion – Sir Leslie Theiss Drive, Townsville
Enjoy connection, confidence and community at this year’s International Women’s Day Afternoon Gathering, an event designed to bring local women together and celebrate them. Whether you run a business, lead a team, work within the community or are simply looking to connect with like-minded women, this special afternoon offers the perfect opportunity to share experiences and build meaningful relationships.
Guests will enjoy a welcoming atmosphere, paired with 2 hours of delicious, unlimited canapés and great company, making it an ideal outing to celebrate achievements, exchange ideas, and support one another. International Women’s Day is about recognising progress while empowering future success, and this event aims to do exactly that by bringing women together to uplift and inspire.
Bookings are essential, so gather your colleagues, friends or fellow business owners and secure your place for an afternoon dedicated to strong women and strong communities.
What: International Women’s Day Afternoon Gathering
What: Saturday, 7 March 2026, 3:00pm – 5:00pm
Where: Isla Cabana Sizz’n Grill. 221 Victoria St, Cardwell
Cost: $25 pp.
Tasman Turtle’s Picnic Day is back for 2026, bringing families together for a full day of fun, learning, and connection with nature.
Enjoy eco-friendly activities, hands-on nature crafts, interactive games, and educational experiences designed to teach kids and adults alike how to protect our oceans, care for local wildlife, and live more sustainably.
It’s a perfect day out for families, friends, and anyone passionate about the environment and a great way to support local conservation efforts while having a turtley awesome time!
Tasman Turtle themselves will be there to join in the dancing, activities and give out the best high-fives to all the amazing kids.
What: Tasman Turtle’s Picnic Day 2026
When: Saturday, 30 May, 9:00am – 2:00pm
Where: TYTO Wetlands, 73–75 McIlwraith Street, Ingham
With Hinchinbrook’s waterways drawing locals and visitors alike, Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ) is reminding boaters that a safe trip starts well before leaving the ramp. Careful planning, the right equipment and good communication can make all the difference on the water.
MRQ advises boaters to begin by planning their trip in detail. This includes choosing suitable anchorage locations, estimating travel times and ensuring there is enough fuel and water on board, plus a reserve. Checking tide predictions and the latest weather forecasts is also critical, particularly in areas affected by strong currents, changing conditions or coastal bars.
Before launching, skippers are urged to thoroughly check their vessel. This means inspecting the bilge, engine and batteries, checking for petrol or gas odours, and fixing any faults before departure. All required safety equipment should be on board, in good condition and within date, along with a first aid kit, tools and basic repair spares. Boat trailers should also be checked to ensure the vessel is secure and roadworthy.
At the ramp, MRQ recommends using the rigging lane to prepare the boat, including ensuring bungs are firmly in place and loose items are secured. Passengers should be briefed on safety requirements and shown where equipment is stored. Courtesy and patience at busy boat ramps also help keep everyone safe.
Life jackets remain a key focus. Children under 12 must wear a life jacket in open boats under 4.8 metres while underway, and all passengers should don life jackets before crossing designated coastal bars. Skippers are also encouraged to monitor weather updates throughout the trip and display correct navigation lights when required.
MRQ strongly advises boaters to log on and off with their local volunteer marine rescue group, and to update them if plans or locations change. This simple step can save valuable time in an emergency.
On return, skippers should log off, secure their boat in the rigging lane, isolate batteries and remove bungs to drain water.
Marine Rescue Queensland says preparation, communication and respect for conditions are the foundations of safe boating, helping ensure every trip on Hinchinbrook waters ends as planned — safely back on shore.
CAPTION: MRQ’s full list of safety information can be found online at https://www.mrq.qld.gov.au/safety-information. Photo source: MRQ
I was very pleased with the responses received to my article earlier this month concerning Council’s capital works programme, as it shows there is a growing interest in Council activities and programmes proposed for our community.
As I indicated, a wealth of information regarding Council activity is available to the public monthly via the General Meeting agenda, and I urge you to read the same.
We are endeavouring to get more detail out there with a view to enhancing community knowledge and participation, and to ensure transparency of operations remains paramount.
After a dreadfully lengthy period of negotiations with insurers, the contract for project management of the JL Kelly Theatre and Hinchinbrook Aquatic Centre works has now been awarded.
The next step is to release the tender for the repair works to the market, which will occur shortly.
I am not in a position to say how long the repairs will take, as that will depend upon the availability of tradies and other skilled staff, materials, and the supply of furnishings and equipment.
We should be in a position to give you a better idea once the tender has been awarded.
Repair works at the Hinchinbrook Visitor Information Centre are still ongoing, with the rear section of the Centre remaining closed to the public. Visitor access is currently limited to the front reception area only.
Council’s $3.23 million Works for Queensland 2024–2027 Program includes 13 projects scheduled for delivery in 2026–2027, with commencement dependent on the availability of both human and material resources.
A variation to the program was recently approved by the Queensland Government, and the projects are as follows:
These projects are funded by the Queensland Government in partnership with Council.
Here’s a simple explanation of the sewer pipe project along Townsville Road.
Council’s job is to build the main sewer pipes and a pump station (commonly known as trunk infrastructure) for future housing developments to connect to.
This work is only about putting in that main backbone for the future. It is not about running sewerage into existing neighbourhoods or building internal sewerage for proposed developments.
The works on Townsville Road and Sir Arthur Fadden Parade are simply setting up the trunk infrastructure we will need down the track.
This project forms part of Council and the Queensland Government’s Residential Activation Fund, supporting future flood‑resilient housing opportunities and recognising the benefits of more resilient land for long‑term planning.
This is a positive project for the Shire. It helps us get ready for future homes, supports housing demand, and strengthens essential services.
Most importantly:
In short:
As you are aware, delays in skilled and professional labour are currently being experienced right across the board, and Council is not immune to such problems. I will keep you updated on delivery as and when details steadily emerge.
A number of issues pertaining to the Bruce Highway corridor were also raised, and such matters will be referred to the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads for its attention.
There seems to be a little confusion regarding actual responsibility for various assets, particularly those owned, managed, or shared between State and Local Governments, so I will endeavour to clarify such roles in a future article.
A number of new matters were raised which are not presently on Council’s radar. Investigations will be undertaken for future planning purposes, and I stress — for planning purposes.
Whilst Council welcomes your views and ideas, we must all bear in mind that due to finite resources, not everything can be achieved, nor can everything be done at once.
Everything costs money, and that money, in the main comes from you, our ratepayers. It is an extremely important function of Council to balance the expectations of the community with the reality of community affordability, and that’s why realistic service levels are so crucial.
Congratulations to the 2026 Student Leaders for Ingham State High School, a group of dedicated and inspiring students selected for their commitment, integrity, and enthusiasm for serving our school community.
Throughout the year our Student Leaders will represent the student body, support school initiatives, assist with events, and serve as role models for their peers. Their leadership will play an important role in building school spirit, encouraging inclusivity, and fostering a positive environment for all.
School Captains Nalini Schofield & Ava Ackery
Vice Captains Nickolas Stokes & Talia Towner
First Nations Leader Clayton Smith
Student Executive Emma Cervellin; Keldon Fletcher; Nathan Lenzo; Lucas Marmara; Georgia Minato; Samantha Musumeci
Sport Captains Carter Bates & Olivia Bishop
House Captains
Hinchinbrook Noah Kopeshke & Amelia Vella
Fantome Olivia Bishop & Ciannah Shannon
Palm Carter Bates & Dimitty Harragon
Orpheus Carla Buonaccorso & Liam Holland
JUNIOR SECONDARY LEADERS:
Junior Secondary Captains Kalynda Lepinath & Declan Oats
First Nations Leader Stevie –Jay Jordan
Student Executive Laura Cervellin; Adele Cordner; Eliza Finlayson; Amy Stokes
House Captains:
Hinchinbrook Chloe Kopeshke
Fantome Owen Borello
Palm Elisha Luke
Orpheus Josephine Holzberger
Contributed with thanks to Ingham State High School.
Principal Rod Flood together with 2026 School Captains Ava Ackery and Nalini Schofield
Photos supplied
Life after school has commenced for Gilroy Santa Maria College’s Class of 2025, with a variety of pathways being undertaken.
The initial weeks after graduation were met with much excitement thanks to the release of academic results, University offers and employment opportunities.
In 2025 GSMC had 100% of Year 12 students obtain their Queensland Certificate of Education, with 93% of that class awarded one or more Vocational Education and Training (VET) qualifications.
From the Class of 2025, 40% of the ATAR eligible students scored 90+, with two graduating students receiving Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority Subject Achievement Commendations for achieving 100% in General English.
Some GSMC school leavers have grabbed the tool belt and commenced apprenticeships, some have stepped straight into full time employment, and others have just packed their bags for the first year of University.
Locally, seven 2025 Year 12 students have commenced employment across Ingham, made possible thanks to the GSMC Work Placement Program which students are able to undertake from Year 10.
There are also four former GSMC School-Based Apprenticeship/Traineeship students transitioning into full time employment this year with businesses such as: Devietti Motors, Scott Gibson Building, Logilytics and SpinFX Electrical.
While these alumni have left the school yard behind, the next group of GSMC students have been warmly welcomed in Year 7.
Students from across the district have graduated from numerous primary schools to now call themselves part of the GSMC family.
While their journey in the college colours is just beginning, if they share the same success as our recent graduates, there will be plenty to celebrate for the Class of 2031.
The owner of Bookkeeping Solutions by Jane, Jane Carne will be bringing expert business advice to her workshop, Future Ready Hinchinbrook Workshop on February 22nd at the NQ Collector’s Function Room in Ingham, running from 8am to 12pm. With a wealth of wisdom, experience and knowledge, the morning event is set to be a valuable discussion of finding motivation and success in small business.
“It’s a chance to give community an opportunity to sit down and look at their business. They can ask themselves – what is working? What isn’t working”, said Jane.
“It encourages people to step out of the day-to-day stuff and look at what they want to achieve in the next six to twelve months. They will have the opportunity to interact with like-minded people in the field. If someone’s having a problem, they can discuss it with other business owners who may be facing similar issues. It’s a supportive practical get-together.”
After six months of event hosting and organisation, this is the last Jane will be doing in collaboration with the council, however she is thankful for her experience.
“It’s been a really wonderful experience. It’s been so good to see how the community has come back after what was quite a devastating event. But now it’s time. We’ve got ourselves back on our feet. Life is getting back to normal and it’s time to look to the future.”
These events have been jointly funded by Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements to support Queensland communities in their recovery from the North and Far North Tropical Low commencing the 29th January 2025 event.
With state-of-the-art equipment, outstanding service and a hands-on approach to every project, LiquaForce continue to prove they are shaping the future of fertilising across North Queensland. Servicing the region from Mackay to Mossman, the locally based, family-owned business has built a reputation grounded in reliability, innovation and genuine care for the communities it supports.
For years, LiquaForce has worked alongside local growers, understanding that success in agriculture is not just about products, but about people. Their commitment extends beyond paddocks and production figures, with a strong focus on supporting farming families, regional employment and the long-term sustainability of the agricultural industry. This close connection to the community has helped establish deep trust and lasting partnerships throughout the sugarcane and horticulture sectors.
LiquaForce has consistently delivered results by providing tailored liquid fertilising solutions designed to meet the specific needs of North Queensland soils and conditions. Their proven ability to service the agricultural and liquid fertilising requirements of the region has positioned them as a dependable partner during both challenging and prosperous seasons.
Following the acquisition by listed company RLF AgTech Limited in 2024, LiquaForce now offers an expanded range of advanced products and the capacity to support a broader variety of crop types. This growth strengthens their ability to deliver cutting-edge solutions while maintaining the local knowledge and community focus that define the business.
LiquaForce fertilisers deliver measurable benefits, including increased yields, improved sugar production, reduced labour demands and optimised nutrient efficiency. By minimising leaching and downtime, they help growers maximise outputs while protecting their land for future generations, reinforcing LiquaForce’s ongoing commitment to both productivity and community resilience.
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The New Year is certainly off and racing. The kids are back at school, and we slip back to normality after another festive season flashes by.
For property owners, you may have recently received your rates notice for the period from 1 January 2026 to 30 June 2026.
We are all feeling the costofliving pressures, and Council is mindful of this.
We are careful about how rates are applied, trying to minimise rate increases while providing the services that our community needs, and considering what the community wants.
The services that we need to supply to the community are crucial, with some of the basics being roads, rubbish, water, and sewerage.
It is unavoidable that the costs of delivering these basic services increase each year.
The services that the community wants are something different.
If the community wants extra services in any area, this comes at an extra cost.
Whilst community wants are important, we have to be mindful and balance this with what ratepayers are able to afford.
This year, the State ValuerGeneral will be conducting updated valuations.
I would say that valuations will increase since the last valuation conducted in 2023.
As you may be aware, a portion of rates payable is based on the valuation.
What is important, however, is the rate in the dollar, or the multiplier, which has to be carefully considered before being applied.
If you are not aware, you can arrange a rate payment plan with Council. Payments can be made at any time.
Any payments made in advance throughout the year will sit as a credit against the property until the next rates notice is issued.
In addition, if you are finding it difficult to make payment, you can discuss other repayment options with the Rates Department — they will be happy to assist.
For more information, you can also visit:
https://www.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au/our-council/rates-and-charges/rates-payments-plans/
And finally, what a great weekend of entertainment coming up, with Tones and I playing at the Showgrounds on Friday, and Diesel playing at the Shire Hall on Saturday.
Let’s show them how we rock ’n’ roll Ingham — The Hinchinbrook Way!
Until next time, take care and be kind.
The Government is delivering easier access to health services with experienced paramedics set to be able to work in remote hospitals and health services from April – an Australian-first initiative.
The new Remote Hospitals Paramedic role will take effect from 1 April 2026 in Queensland’s most remote towns, strengthening frontline care and supporting local health services to respond to workforce shortages in rural and remote communities.
When Remote Hospitals Paramedics are not responding to emergencies in the community, they will be able to work collaboratively alongside doctors, nurses and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health workers to deliver more care closer to home.
Under the new model, these paramedics will deliver both primary and emergency care in Queensland Health’s remote health services including hospitals, general practices, residential aged care facilities, and primary health care clinics.
The first Queensland Health Remote Hospitals Paramedics are expected to commence mid-year.
The nation-leading initiative responds directly to findings from the Government’s Workforce Gap Analysis, which highlighted the depth of the health workforce crisis.
The Analysis revealed that 72 per cent of workforce growth over the past 10 years occurred primarily in metropolitan areas, while rural and remote Queensland was left facing mounting shortages. Although the Analysis found no workforce gaps for Queensland Ambulance Service paramedics in South Queensland, it showed challenges persisted in attracting and retaining paramedics in rural and remote communities under conventional workforce models.
The Remote Hospitals Paramedics role is part of the Government’s broader work to strengthen the health workforce, including:
Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Tim Nicholls said the Crisafulli Government was delivering easier access to health services for all Queenslanders.
“These targeted reforms are about fixing a system left under strain after a decade of neglect under Labor, and restoring easier access to health services for rural, regional and remote Queenslanders,’ Minister Nicholls said.
“Traditional workforce models alone are not meeting the needs of our most remote communities, which is why we are backing new and flexible ways of delivering care.
“The nation-leading Paramedic, Remote Hospitals model will give remote hospitals and health services greater flexibility to respond to local health needs and workforce challenges, and ultimately, improve access to care.
“Paramedics are highly trained clinicians with strong skills in assessment and acute care, and those skills are incredibly valuable in remote hospitals and clinics where clinicians must manage a wide range of health presentations.”
Nine Queensland Health HHSs have facilities in areas classified as remote and very remote (Modified Monash Model) and will be able to employ paramedics within their facilities under the Directive.
These include:
‘The Government is delivering easier access to health services with experienced paramedics set to be able to work in remote hospitals and health services from April’
Winning the Hinchinbrook by-election was an honour that carries a great responsibility — one I will never take for granted. From day one, I have taken that responsibility seriously and committed myself to being a strong, local voice for our community.
Since being sworn in just before Christmas, it has been a very busy period. I have had a clear focus on the issues that affect daily life across our electorate.
The Bruce Highway is the backbone of our state, and key sections such as the Gairloch Crossing, Seymour River and the Northern Beaches intersection north of Townsville are relied upon by locals every single day. These roads are essential for getting people to work, kids to school and keeping communities connected. I’ve had ongoing discussions with councils, transport operators and local businesses about improving safety and resilience along these corridors.
Another key priority is Mount Spec Road, a vital lifeline for Paluma and Hidden Valley. Since the February 2025 rain event, residents and businesses have faced closures, detours and ongoing uncertainty, affecting families, local businesses, freight and emergency services. While the fix is complex and weather-challenged, I am committed to working with the community to deliver certainty, safety and get locals and visitors back supporting this beautiful part of our region.
I have already met with the Minister for Transport and his department to advocate for upgrades that deliver real improvements and value for money for Hinchinbrook.
We also cannot talk about Hinchinbrook without addressing Port Hinchinbrook. This long-running issue has created uncertainty for residents, businesses and the environment. Works are progressing, and I look forward to providing an update soon that delivers the clarity and confidence our community deserves.
I’ve also heard directly from farmers frustrated by the excessive drainage regulations of the former labor government that are worsening flooding impacts in our region. I’ve raised these concerns with Minister Dale Last and will continue pushing for practical, sensible solutions.
Finally, congratulations to Ingham businesses and residents on an outstanding campaign to bring Tones and I to town — a huge win for the region. Enjoy the fun on the 20th.
Hinchinbrook deserves a strong future, and I’ll keep working hard to deliver safer roads, stronger communities and a future that works for regional Queensland.
Tourism operators across the Hinchinbrook Shire are set to benefit from a major funding injection aimed at strengthening disaster resilience, following the devastating North and Far North Queensland floods in early 2025.
As part of the jointly funded Building Resilient Tourism Infrastructure Fund: North Queensland Tropical Low (BRTINQ), $4 million has been allocated to support 25 tourism infrastructure projects across Townsville, Hinchinbrook, Burdekin, Traeger and Mundingburra, with local operators among the successful recipients.
Launched in June 2025 under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, the fund is designed to help tourism businesses future-proof their operations against increasingly severe weather events. Projects range from the installation of solar systems and battery storage to improved drainage, flood mitigation measures and early warning systems.
Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain said the funding demonstrated a strong commitment to the long-term recovery of flood-affected regions.
“Through this program, both levels of government have partnered to help those that were hardest hit by last year’s flood event in North and Far North Queensland to thrive and prepare for the future,” Minister McBain said.
“These businesses not only play a crucial role regionally, driving economies and employing locals, but also provide access to some of Australia’s best tourism destinations for the world.”
Queensland Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said practical infrastructure upgrades were essential to protecting regional jobs and strengthening the tourism sector.
“Tourism operators need real, practical support to get through natural disasters and come back stronger - that’s how we build a resilient industry for the long term,” Minister Powell said.
Hinchinbrook Shire Council Mayor Ramon Jayo congratulated successful local applicants, welcoming the investment into the shire’s tourism future.
“Well done to the businesses who have been successful in the Building Resilient Tourism Infrastructure Fund,” Mayor Jayo said.
“These grants provide vital support for our local businesses, helping them stay competitive, reduce risk, and build long-term resilience.”
A full list of successful recipients is available through the Queensland Government’s Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation website.
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