Queenslanders Urged To Stick To Science As Melanoma Rates Remain Highest Worldwide Health experts are urging Queenslanders to rely on proven medical advice, not social media myths, when it comes to sun safety, as the state continues to record the highest melanoma rates in the world. Dermatologist Associate Professor Erin McMeniman, from Princess Alexandra Hospital and the University of Queensland’s School of Medicine, says misinformation about sunscreen is spreading online at an alarming rate. “Particularly in Queensland, most people receive enough sun exposure to produce vitamin D simply through their daily incidental activities, such as hanging out the washing or checking the letterbox,” she said. She warns that unprotected sun exposure remains the leading cause of melanoma and other skin cancers, with 4,085 Queenslanders diagnosed in 2021 and 385 losing their lives. “Skin damage can occur after 10 minutes exposure when the UV index is at 3 or above. In Queensland, the UV index is 3 or above all year round, even in winter,” she said. In recent weeks, UV levels have reached 14 and 15, classified as “extreme”, further emphasising the need for regular sun protection. Despite these well-established risks, a range of myths persist online, including claims that sunscreen causes cancer, that tans prevent sunburn, or that darker-skinned people cannot get skin cancer. Assoc Prof McMeniman says these claims are not only false, but dangerous. “Unprotected sun exposure has been proven to cause cancer.” She adds that sunscreen found in make-up is rarely strong enough to provide real protection. “You need SPF30 or higher rating to be protected against sun exposure,” she said. “If it’s not SPF30 or above, you should be wearing additional sunscreen under your makeup when you’re in the sun for an extended period.” Assoc Prof McMeniman says one of the biggest concerns is the rising number of Queensland children experiencing sunburn, with nearly half reporting at least one burn in the past year. “Sunburn in childhood, frequent sunburn and sunburn that blisters the skin all increase a person’s susceptibility to UV-related cancers,” she said. Adults over 60 remain the most at-risk group due to limited sun safety education when they were young. However, she says younger generations are benefiting from decades of awareness campaigns, with melanoma rates now slightly declining in those under 40. As Queensland heads into another Summer of intense UV levels, the message from experts remains clear: slip, slop, slap and slide, every day.
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There’s nothing quite like the taste of homegrown bushtucker. Bringing native Australian plants into your garden is a delicious way to connect with the land and enjoy fresh, seasonal flavours straight from your backyard. Here are four native plants that are easy to grow and a joy to harvest. Riberry Riberry, also known as lilly pilly, is a versatile shrub or small tree that brightens the garden with its glossy foliage and colourful fruit. The berries have a unique, spicy flavour with hints of clove and cinnamon, making them ideal for jams, sauces, or desserts. It's a magnet for birds and pollinators, so while you’re enjoying the fruits, your garden is also supporting local wildlife. Kangaroo Apple Kangaroo apple is a striking shrub that offers a distinct visual interest to the garden, with vibrant purple flowers and sweet, tangy fruit. The berries are delicious when fully ripe and can be enjoyed fresh or in creative dishes such as salads or preserves. Lemon Myrtle Lemon myrtle is a fragrant, evergreen plant prized for its intensely citrus-scented leaves. Perfect for teas, marinades, desserts, or sauces, this rainforest native is both ornamental and highly functional. It can be pruned to a manageable size, making it suitable for gardens of any scale. Lemon myrtle’s year-round leaves and aromatic qualities make it a must-have for any bush-tucker garden. Midyim Berry The midyim berry, or midgen berry, is a low-growing shrub with sweet, tangy berries that resemble blueberries. Its copper-toned new growth adds aesthetic charm, and the fruit is perfect for jams, sauces, or simply eating fresh. It also supports pollinators and provides food for native wildlife, making it an excellent choice for gardeners who want to cultivate a productive and ecologically friendly space. Why Grow Bushtucker? Native edible plants are naturally adapted to Australian soils and climates, often requiring less water and maintenance than exotic alternatives. They support biodiversity, offering food and habitat for birds, insects, and other wildlife. And, of course, they taste incredible, fresh, unique, and full of nutrients. A true taste of Australian bush bliss.
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Rachel Cauchis' Newest Optometrist Joining the team around the start of May, the practice’s newest optometrist has quickly settled into his role and has now been here for around seven months. When asked how he is finding it, he laughed, saying how much he enjoyed the office culture, showing he has meshed well with the other optometrists and enjoys the light-hearted environment of the workplace. Originally from Sydney, he studied optometry at the University of New South Wales. His move north came after a rural placement where he was encouraged to get in touch. After a phone call with Travis Cauchi the practice manager and co-owner, he decided to take a chance, packed everything up and thought, “Why not give it a go?” In practice, one of his favourite pieces of equipment is the slit lamp, which gives a magnified 3D view of the interior structures of the eye and allows him to closely examine eye anatomy and detect potential eye disease. He has a strong interest in picking up and managing eye disease, particularly in a regional setting where access to specialist care can be limited. He enjoys working closely with visiting ophthalmologists and doing his best to manage patients locally when travel is difficult. He sees professional development as something that happens every day, learning through experience and exposure to a wide variety of cases. While most of his patients are elderly, they are also his favourites. He enjoys their life stories, their humour and the genuine appreciation they show, which he finds incredibly rewarding. Outside of work, he enjoys exploring local waterfalls, travelling to Cairns and Townsville, and playing basketball with the local community. He is rarely without his film camera and considers himself more of a beach person, happy to sit by the water for hours.
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The Queensland Government has delivered its first major update to crocodile management in almost a decade. The new plan prioritises community safety, with increased patrols and an expansion of removal zones. It represents a commonsense approach to crocodile management. The Government’s Queensland Crocodile Management Plan puts human safety first and was developed with feedback from communities in North and Far North Queensland, including Ingham. The plan will implement increased crocodile management measures, including more patrols in high-risk areas and expanded removal zones. This evidence-based strategy demonstrates the Government’s commitment to listening to local communities and has been shaped by expert recommendations and extensive scientific research. Key changes for Ingham: Tyto Wetlands in Ingham to be upgraded to an Active Removal Zone, with the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service to undertake proactive patrols of this area and any crocodile found to be removed. Regional communities will continue to be consulted on the plan, with a designated four-week annual consultation period and updates made on a rolling basis. A mandatory review will be conducted every five years to ensure the plan continues to reflect the needs of the communities it impacts. The Government will also continue to remove crocodiles from the wild that pose a threat to public safety. Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa said the people of his electorate voted for change, and he was proud to deliver it in his first week as local Member. “Hinchinbrook now has a seat at the government table and work has already begun to deliver the fresh start we promised – starting with a new crocodile management plan that puts the safety of people first in Ingham,” Mr Chiesa said. “Upgrading Tyto Wetlands to an Active Removal Zone is the commonsense approach that’s needed and has been lacking for far too long under the former Government.” Mayor of Hinchinbrook regional council, Ramon Jayo, said it was a practical step to protect the area but to remain Crocwise. "TYTO Wetlands and the surrounding precinct remain one of our most popular destinations. While crocodiles are a natural part of life in North Queensland, proactive management is essential to keep visitors safe. Recent changes by the Queensland Government will allow for increased patrols and the targeted removal of crocodiles that pose a risk to the community. Crocodiles are part of our environment, so staying Crocwise is about using common sense—be alert near waterways, keep your distance, and never take chances."
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1945
The Roscommon Estate was purchased by Fr John Garvey on behalf of the Diocese of Townsville, with Fr David OMeara appointed Parish Priest to establish a school on the grounds. Plans for a Christian Brothers School for Boys were first recorded, with additional land acquired in Ingham and surrounding districts for this purpose.
�E1980
On 22 October, a public meeting was held to discuss a proposed Senior High School. A committee was formed, and a feasibility study was conducted, with reports presented in March and June 1981.
1981
Two demountable classrooms were erected for the scholastic year, costing $4,988. One classroom served as a Domestic Science room for Santa Maria girls, while the other was used as a homeroom for Year 10 Gilroy boys. Students from Cardwell were also transported to Gilroy using a newly acquired college bus.
1982
Further improvements were made at the Colleges at a cost of $30,078. Works included enclosing Gilroys undercroft to create a new classroom, converting the former music room into a multi-purpose space, and enclosing the verandas of the Manual Arts block to provide additional storage. Finances were computerised, and all grades became fully co-educational.
1985
In June, the Schools Commission approved a grant of $495,000 for new development, with tenders called in July. The district contributed the remaining $200,000, shared among the Ingham, Halifax, and Abergowrie parishes, reflecting strong local support for the project.
1986
The first Year 11 class commenced, with 75 students enrolled in April. The Year 11 and 12 extension was officially blessed and opened on 19 April by Bishop Raymond Benjamin, with celebrations including a dinner at the Royal Hotel and participation by Senator Margaret Reynolds. Fr David OMeara passed away in Ireland on 15 June.
1992
The Student Representative Council (SRC) was established, giving students a formal voice in school activities and decision-making.
1998
The upper refurbished floor of G-Block was officially opened by Mr Bob Katter and blessed by Father Ferlazzo.
2002
The All-Purpose Hall was completed and dedicated on 11 October, providing a versatile space for school events.
2008
Year 12 students were awarded the Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) for the first time.
2009
Gilroy Santa Maria College celebrated its 60th Jubilee, with the refurbished college chapel blessed and officially opened as part of the anniversary celebrations.
Reflecting on his time at Cardinal Gilroy College in Ingham, former student Bob (Robert) Mitting recalls nothing but fond memories. Yet, alongside those recollections, he vividly remembers the culture shock he experienced upon arriving.
He had gone from being a barefoot country kid to a student among Christian Brothers and boys with unfamiliar traditions — including the expectation to wear shoes and socks, something he rarely did, especially after the war when footwear was a luxury.
“That was a bit of a shock initially,” he said. “And because we were college boys, we also had to wear ties. You’ve got no idea the cacophony of colours that turned up, with everyone wearing their dads’ old ties. That was one of the first things that really stood out — having to wear shoes, socks, and a tie.”
Another surprise came with the Ingham wet season, which coincided with the start of the school year. The school was still new, and poor drainage left the grounds dotted with puddles and makeshift creeks.
“When you’re kids, you run about and chase each other, running like madmen all over the place. And you’d be up to your knees in a puddle of water before you realised — and with our precious shoes and socks on,” he laughed, adding that he often got into trouble with his mother for it.
The school day began with the usual assembly, where the Brothers read announcements before class. The school consisted of one long building with concertina doors separating classrooms. For larger gatherings, the walls could be opened so the entire school could be addressed by the principal, Brother Cryan. Alongside him, Brothers Wittig and Baillie formed the core teaching team. A new addition, Brother Seaman, was a young, athletic recruit who became the sports coach. Unlike the middle-aged Brothers, he was likely only 18 or 19 — just slightly older than the students themselves.
Bob fondly recalls his claim to fame at the school: he was number 11 on the initial enrolment roll, with Brian Livingston being the very first boy registered.
“The college was small, catering only to the younger grades. They had all the classes from Grade Four up to Junior — as it was in those days, Sub-Junior and Junior,” he said. “The senior years weren’t offered, so students wanting to complete what would now be Years 11 and 12 had to go elsewhere.”
Bob himself didn’t feel the need to continue:
“I just wanted to get out and work, and make some money.”
He learned blacksmithing as a trade and later went on to join the Air Force after school.
One of the highlights of his school days was the school’s first senior rugby league title in 1954.
“It took till 1954 before Cardinal Gilroy actually won the senior rugby league title for the first time. That was a big feather in our caps. We were all pretty chuffed about beating Abergowrie twice and the high school twice — we were the undefeated champions. We often pat each other on the back still, years later. It was a big thing for us, being the first boys to win.”
Looking back, Bob reflects on the friendships, discipline, and camaraderie that shaped his youth.
“I thoroughly enjoyed being there. We did have a good team, you know — the guys, the boys — we all fitted in together and backed each other.”
Even decades later, he retains a deep connection to Ingham.
“I’ve still got a soft spot for Ingham — nothing’s changed a real lot. It still has all the places I used to run around as a kid. I’m proud to be a Gilroy boy, and I’m proud to be an Ingham boy. Seventy-five years is quite an achievement.”
Forrest Beach will come alive this weekend as surf lifesavers from across North Queensland gather for one of the region�E��E�E���E��Es most anticipated events on the surf sports calendar.
�E��E�E���E��EIt marks the start of the summer season and people look forward to reconnecting after the off-season, enjoying the action and soaking up the Forrest Beach hospitality.�E��E�E���E��E
WHEN: from 9:00 Saturday, 11th October - 12th October
WHERE: Forrest Beach SLSC, Forrest Beach
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Golfers and community members are invited to take part in the 2-Ball Ambrose Tournament at Ingham Golf Club on Sunday, 19th October, hosted by Venables Glass & Home Solutions. This two-ball Ambrose event promises four hours of competitive fun, camaraderie, and charitable giving, with all funds raised going to Ingham Palliative Care.
Participants are encouraged to nominate early via Inghamgc2021@gmail.com as there are limited spots available. On-course action will include classic Ambrose challenges, with prizes for longest drives, closest to the pin, and a countdown ranking from first to fifth for the overall winners. Adding to the excitement, the ladies from Ingham Palliative Care will host raffles, while Venables merchandise will be available for purchase. Food and drinks will be offered at a separate cost, giving players the chance to enjoy a bite or a refreshing drink while supporting the cause.
Joey Venables explains that the tournament is his family�E��Es way of giving back to palliative care, thanking them for the care they provided his father. A Hinchinbrook Community Recovery officer, engaged by the Council and Queensland government, is assisting with the organisation of the charity aspect of the event, ensuring everything runs smoothly.
Whether youre a seasoned golfer or a newcomer to the sport, the Venables 2-Ball Ambrose Tournament offers a perfect blend of competition and charitable spirit. Nominate today and be part of this memorable day on the green.
WHAT: Venable 2-Ball Ambrose Tournament for Ingham Palliative Care
WHEN: 19th October, 2025 at 10am
WHERE: Ingham Golf Club, 67 Marina Pde, Ingham
SIGN UP: Inghamgc2021@gmail.com
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By Victoria Velton
The Ingham Tennis Club has long benefited from the dedication of one remarkable family the Scotts. Gordon Scott, a past Chairman of the club, continues to support the community by running Pickle Ball on Monday nights and officiating at events, sharing his experience and passion for the sport.
The commitment of these three generations is deeply appreciated by the Ingham Tennis Club. Their time, effort, and love for the sport exemplify what makes a community club thrive. The Scotts dedication ensures that tennis and now Pickle Ball remains a vibrant part of Ingham's sporting life.
By Victoria Velton
With the Cardwell Seafest slowly setting up around the runners, Parkrunners showed a market full of stall-holders just how fit they were. With no small thanks to Terry, a man behind the scenes of Cardwell Park Run who blocked retro and hot-rod traffic that morning so the parkrunners could jog on safely.
Terry has never run or walked parkrun, but he has turned up 140 times to volunteer. A beloved part of the Cardwell parkrun family, it's most weeks that Terry is the first to arrive with all the equipment to set up, he then becomes the Northern marshal before barcode scanning. A man beloved in the running community, who will be missed.
"We appreciate all you have done and we shall miss seeing your smiling face. Please remember to pop in for coffee with us sometimes. We wish you all the best. Thank you again, see you around." - Cardwell Park Run
Parkrun Results: 4th October 2025
Palm Creek #93 �E��E�E���E��E 36 participants
Fastest time: Jayson (20:04)
Final finisher: Wayne (54:50)
PBs: Rachel (24:08), Zeke (24:56), Brent (25:57), Amie (28:53), Marika (29:38), Michael (50:23)
First-timers: Max, Jason of Team Runna, Angela, Justine, Lee, Bianca, Darren, Ashley, Samantha of The Adventurers, Bentley, Wayne
Volunteers: Sandra Coco, Bridgette Duffy, Matteo Mancuso, Paula Rand, Samantha Roberts, Wayne Roberts
Terry's last Cardwell Park Run, surrounded by all his Park Run friends. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
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Member for Hinchinbrook, Nick Dametto, has stunned the community with the announcement that he will contest the upcoming Townsville local government by-election, officially launching his bid to become the next Mayor of Townsville.
After eight years of service in State Parliament, Dametto will step down from his role as Member for Hinchinbrook to pursue the mayoralty an ambitious move with no guarantee of success.
The opportunity came up, and I believe its good for the whole region, he said.
I would like to sincerely thank the good people of Hinchinbrook who have trusted me over the past eight years, said Dametto.
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Dametto says I think it's necessary to demonstrate independence" stepping down from his position as Deputy Leader of Katters Australian Party to become a politically neutral leader for Townsville. Photo supplied
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I hope everyone packed their party gear for these weeks of the school holidays! From the river to the sea, there�E��Es plenty happening; from the Rock n Croc last Saturday to Cardwell�E��Es Seafest this weekend, along with many other events lined up throughout the week, some even overlapping this weekend. Maybe I�E��Ell meet a mermaid at Seafest if I�E��Em lucky.
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Fun Fact: Crocodiles swallow stones to aid in the breakdown of food, as they do not chew. These stones help grind and crush food in their stomachs, especially when they consume whole prey with tough shells or bones. They can also cough up hairballs, as they cannot digest, even with the aid of stones, hair, hooves, claws, and fingernails.
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In the wake of the devastating North Queensland floods earlier this year, the Lions Clubs of District Q2, together with the Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF), have launched a Disaster Recovery Fund to support local families in need.
The fund offers up to $1000 per household to assist those severely impacted by the disaster. The assistance is aimed at covering essential items and immediate needs, helping families begin the journey of recovery and rebuilding their lives - from basic necessities to urgent requirements, every contribution counts towards restoration.
Residents seeking more information or wishing to apply for assistance can contact the Ingham Lions Club via email at inghamlionsclub@gmail.com.
Today, the community of Ingham came together to pay tribute to the brave men and women of the Queensland Police Service who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. The National Police Remembrance Day Service, held at the Holy Trinity Anglican Church, offered a solemn and poignant moment for reflection, remembrance, and respect.
Since 1861, 151 Queensland Police officers have lost their lives while protecting and serving communities across the state. Their courage, commitment, and selflessness were acknowledged through the reading of the Roll of Honour, the laying of wreaths, and moments of quiet reflection that highlighted the enduring strength and unity within both the policing family and the broader community.
Mayor Ramon Jayo said, �E��E�E���E��EOn behalf of Hinchinbrook Shire Council, I extend our deepest respect and sincere gratitude to the Queensland Police Service, and to all who serve our community with courage, integrity, and dedication. We honour our fallen not only today, but every day.�E��E�E���E��E
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On the 18th of September 2025, an era's end was marked as Senior Sergeant Geoff Bormann attended his final Hinchinbrook Local Disaster Management Group meeting.
Geoff�E��E�E���E��Es calm presence, strong leadership, and unwavering commitment have been vital in guiding Hinchinbrook through some of its most challenging times. His contributions to disaster response, recovery, and community resilience have not only protected lives but also strengthened the very fabric of the community.
"Your contributions to disaster response, recovery, and community resilience have not only protected lives but also strengthened the fabric of our community.
"As you move into the next chapter, please know that your efforts have made a lasting and profound difference. Thank you, Geoff.
Cr Patrick Lynch also shared his congratulations, "Well done, Senior Sargent Geoff, you have been a great leader in our community and a steady hand at the wheel, you will be missed, congratulations and I hope you enjoy your retirement."
As Geoff steps into retirement, he does so leaving behind a legacy of professionalism, compassion, and service. The difference he has made in the Hinchinbrook community will be remembered for years to come.
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Each year, a team of Hinchinbrook Emergency Services Cadets travels to Brisbane to attend the prestigious ESCAPE Week, a program that brings together cadets from across Queensland to experience life at multiple emergency services. This year, three Hinchinbrook cadets participated: two senior cadets attending as leaders and one as a program participant, accompanied by Cadet Coordinator Mark Regazzoli.
The week kicked off at Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ), Bribie Island, where cadets underwent an introduction and simulated water rescue exercises. Activities included marine radio operations, abandon-ship drills, swimming to life rafts, and safely using emergency marine flares, all supported by off-duty MRQ volunteers.
On Day 2, the cadets visited the Brisbane Police Academy, exploring the Dog Squad, Bomb Squad, Mounted Police, and POL AIR 3. That afternoon, they joined SES at Riverdale Park for a land search mission, completing the scenario successfully late into the evening.
Day 3 took the cadets to the Gold Coast University Hospital, where they observed the trauma team�E��E�E���E��Es work dealing with severe injuries, road accidents, and patients affected by drugs or alcohol. That afternoon, a visit to the Southport Fire Station provided insight into �E��E�E���E��EFire Comms�E��E�E���E��E and the removal of crash victims from entrapments.
Cadet Group Leader Keldon Fletcher received the Highest Point Award for the group quiz, while leading cadet Kingsley Nipper delivered the Welcome to Country at the award ceremony. Throughout ESCAPE Week, the Hinchinbrook team embodied the program�E��E�E���E��Es values, living up to the #STANDTALL motto with dedication, skill, and excellence.
QLD Emergency Services Cadets on Day 1 at Bribie Island. Photo credit: MRQ Bribie Island Radio Officer, Peter McNamara
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Since launching in December last year, the Hurley Bus has already completed more than 400 bookings, providing free transport for elderly, frail, and palliative community members. The service, run entirely by volunteers through the Ingham Palliative Carers Committee, offers a safe, reliable, and compassionate way for people to stay connected and attend important appointments.
The eight-seat bus is wheelchair accessible and travels throughout Ingham, the surrounding districts, Cardwell, and even to Townsville. While it is most often used for medical appointments, airport transfers, and clinic visits, the service is also available for outings such as family functions, church, shopping trips, the movies, hairdresser appointments, or special occasions.
Each trip includes both a driver and an assistant, all of whom are volunteers with First Aid Certificates and, most importantly, a willingness to help with kindness and joy.
�E��EWe do what we do, and we do it with joy,�E��E says coordinator Judy Cardillo. �E��EAs long as they can, the Hurley Bus will help you get there.�E��E
Residents in Cardwell are especially encouraged to make use of the service.
For more information, or to enquire about volunteering, contact Judy Cardillo on 0428 921 822 or email ninoandjudy@bigpond.com
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This weekend, the Tropical North Showjumping Club (TNSJC) will host the thrilling finale of the 2025 Frosty Mango NQ Leaderboard Series with the eagerly awaited �E��E�E���E��EOut of the Floods Comes the Warmbloods�E��E�E���E��E event. After a season disrupted by severe weather, riders and their horses are ready to put on a spectacular show of skill and determination.
With electric energy, thrilling performances, and trophies on the line, Ingham is the place to be for anyone wanting to witness North Queensland�E��E�E���E��Es best riders in action.
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Be Ready Because Disasters Are A Reality Here
Living in Hinchinbrook Shire on Queensland�E��E�E���E��Es north-east coast means living with the reality of severe weather. Cyclones, floods, and intense storms are part of life here �E��E�E���E��E and during disaster season, we need to be ready to respond quickly and calmly when the time comes.
What if the power goes out for an extended period?
What if we can�E��E�E���E��Et get to the shops or the pharmacy?
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