Owners of Bingil Bay Distillery, Paul Williams and Lynda Hannah. Photo Credit Sian Bantock

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By Sian Bantock

Nestled within the tropical rainforest of Bingil Bay in Far North Queensland is a hidden gem: the world’s first licensed Sub-ATMOSPHERIC® spirit distillery.

Bingil Bay Distillery operates using the patented Sub-ATMOSPHERIC® process—technically a vapor compression heat recovery system with thermal energy storage, integrated in a single-pass closed-loop arrangement.

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By lowering the boiling point under vacuum, the system distils at significantly reduced temperatures, which enables the product to not overcook.  The distillery recycles the heat efficiently, so they don’t need a boiler or chillers, which helps make them zero net energy.

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The modernized approach reduces environmental impacts whilst preserving the delicate flavours. The tails, a byproduct from spirit runs, are passed onto farmers who have found it beneficial.

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The distillery held a soft opening on Sunday 23rd August, where owner Lynda Hannah guided visitors through the facility and explained the technology developed by Paul Williams.

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“When you get to this stage of life, you get a bit more philosophical, I suppose, and we wanted to provide something for the community. What started out as more or less of a hobby has grown into this,” said Paul.

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“Mission Beach is emerging from years of hardships caused by cyclones and so on, and now we’re getting these beautiful hotels, restaurants, and the council has done everything in the middle of town... Our aim is to hold onto the tourists for a little longer and to give them a wet weather option."

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Once visitors have learned about the process, Lynda and Paul host a taste-testing session that showcases the internationally awarded spirits in all their glory.

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The distillery’s location was chosen for its proximity to Tully Sugar Mill, which plays a vital part in supplying premium molasses—the essential basis for high-quality rum.

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“This area grows some of the very best sugarcane that’s not irrigated, and it's a highly flavoured, good sugar. You’ve got Tully Mill, which is one of the most sophisticated mills in the world and beautifully run, so uniquely we can choose whatever grade of malaise or sugar juice that we want," Paul Williams said.  

Bingil Bay Distillery is open to the public Thursday-Sunday, 10am-4pm, with guided tours at 11am and 2pm.  Bookings can be made at bingilbaydistillery.com.au.

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The latest round of Skilling Queenslanders for Work will provide more than 5,200 Queenslanders with training and practical workplace experience. Photo source: Shutterstock

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Cassowary Coast jobseekers could benefit from a major investment in skills and employment programs, with more than 5200 Queenslanders set to receive practical training and workplace experience through the latest round of Skilling Queenslanders for Work.

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The Queensland Government is investing $46.2 million across 166 projects delivered by 92 community organisations, with more than three quarters of successful projects located outside Brisbane.

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The regional focus is particularly relevant to the Cassowary Coast, where local industries including agriculture, tourism, construction, health and community services continue to rely on developing and attracting skilled workers.

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Projects funded through the program connect jobseekers with training, qualifications and practical workplace experience, with the aim of creating clearer pathways into industries experiencing workforce shortages.

For the first time, 19 industry-led pilot projects will also bring employers, councils, industry groups and training providers together to design training around jobs available within local communities.

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Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training Ros Bates said the latest funding round was focused on ensuring training aligned with workforce demand.

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“We’re backing these projects with a $46.2 million investment which will deliver Queenslanders practical skills, real experience and a clearer pathway into industries that need more workers,” Minister Bates said.

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“That is how we build a stronger workforce and deliver better services through a stronger economy.”

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Cassowary Coast cane growers could benefit from a proposed biofuel policy shake-up aimed at increasing demand for low-carbon fuels and creating new opportunities for Australia’s sugar industry. Photo source: Shutterstock

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Cassowary Coast cane growers could stand to benefit from a proposed shake-up of Australia’s biofuels policy, with the Federal Government considering new measures designed to increase demand for low-carbon liquid fuels.

The Federal Government confirmed this week it was progressing consultation on measures aimed at creating demand for low-carbon liquid fuels, which it says could strengthen Australia’s fuel security and resilience while supporting domestic industry.  

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The development could have particular relevance across the Cassowary Coast, where sugar remains a major agricultural industry in districts including Tully and Innisfail.

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Sugarcane has significant potential beyond traditional raw sugar production, with industry body CANEGROWERS previously identifying renewable energy and biofuels as an important opportunity for diversification and new revenue streams.

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Its Sugar Plus roadmap identifies sugarcane as a potential feedstock for renewable fuels, including applications in heavy transport and aviation.  

Federal Member for Kennedy Bob Katter cautiously welcomed the Federal Government's move but warned any future policy needed to prioritise Australian farmers and manufacturers rather than increasing opportunities for foreign ethanol producers.

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“But the last thing we need right now is for any foreign ethanol producers to be given special access to our biofuels market, when Australia’s own growers and fuel producers need to be supported and protected,” Mr Katter said.

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“Any foreign access will spell disaster.”

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Mr Katter has campaigned for decades for greater use of Australian-produced ethanol, arguing the country's sugar and grain industries could play a much greater role in supplying renewable fuels.

For the Cassowary Coast, the debate comes as the sugar industry continues to explore opportunities to diversify and extract greater value from the cane crop.

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The Tully district alone has historically produced millions of tonnes of cane each season, while South Johnstone also services a substantial Far North Queensland growing region.  

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The Federal Government's consultation could therefore have implications well beyond the fuel bowser, with the eventual policy settings potentially determining whether increased demand for low-carbon fuels translates into new opportunities for Australian sugar-growing communities.

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Isabelle Roelofs reformer pilates instructor at Mind, Body, Reformed. Photo Supplied

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Isabelle Roelofs is an impressive 16-year-old who has already gained some remarkable qualifications and experience within the fitness industry. She is a qualified Mat and Reformer Pilates instructor, Aerial Yoga Instructor and is on track to complete her Certificate IV in Fitness by the end of the year. 

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Following in her mum’s footsteps, Isabelle is now one of Mind & Body: Reformed’s core Instructors and leads the Thursday afternoon Mix Up classes. 

Each week, the class changes format - so whether you're stuck choosing between Jump, Strength or Circuit training, you can simply turn up to class to find out what Isabelle has planned. 

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Isabelle has spent many years dedicating her time to training and qualifications, something she has found to be very rewarding. 

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“I love teaching people and being able to help them get stronger and more mobile and help them feel better about themselves,” said Isabelle.

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No matter the style, every session is designed to build fitness, strength and endurance all while offering a fresh challenge each week. 

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Isabelle’s classes run at 4pm and 5pm every Thursday. To book a session at Mind & Body: Reformed, head to the Groovio app or contact the team via text (0413 086 445), email or Facebook. 

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Patrick with some of his fellow “truth seekers” at a recent workshop. Photo supplied

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A lifelong curiosity about spirituality has taken one Tully man from a practical career as an electrician to an Indian yoga ashram, sparking decades of exploring clairvoyance, intuition and what he describes as the “gift of vision”.

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Patrick said his interest in spirituality began when he was just 16, despite growing up in a practical family largely made up of tradespeople.

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As a teenager, he immersed himself in books about Tibetan Buddhism, astral travel and spiritual healing before eventually developing an interest in yoga and Eastern mysticism. His curiosity ultimately took him to India, where he spent a year living in a yoga ashram.

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Although Patrick went on to become an electrician, keeping one foot firmly planted in the practical world, he continued exploring spirituality throughout his adult life. He later joined a 12-week study group called New Spiritual Horizons and travelled to Royal Tree Estate near Albury-Wodonga, where he participated in courses exploring healing and different states of consciousness.

Patrick believes he was born with a natural clairvoyant ability and said he has experienced what he interprets as spirits, angels and energy throughout his life.

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“Whether or not everyone experiences these things in the same way, these experiences have been an important part of my own journey and have shaped the way I see life,” he said.

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Central to Patrick's approach is the belief that people can become more aware of their own intuition by paying attention to feelings, hunches, mental images and what he describes as their “small inner voice”.

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“The reason I believe this free workshop can help people is quite simple: learning to trust your true feelings, hunches, inner pictures and that small inner voice can be the beginning of understanding why we are here,” Patrick said.

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He believes people possess four spiritual gifts – prophecy, vision, feeling and intuition – and his upcoming workshop will give participants an opportunity to explore some of those ideas for themselves.

Among the techniques Patrick teaches is what he calls “Aura Vision”, which involves observing the perceived energy surrounding another person. He also introduces participants to spiritual cleansing and relaxation techniques intended to encourage calmness and greater awareness.

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Rather than telling participants what they should experience, Patrick said his message was about becoming receptive to their own impressions.

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“Trust your feelings. Trust your intuition. Pay attention to your inner pictures and that quiet inner voice,” he said.

“You may discover that your own inner awareness has been trying to guide you all along.”

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Patrick is inviting locals curious about their own intuition and spiritual awareness to join him for a free VISION Clear Seeing & Clairvoyance Exploration Workshop in Tully on Saturday 29^th August.

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What: VISION Clear Seeing & Clairvoyance Exploration Workshop

When: Saturday 29^th August, 10am

Where: 29 Bryant Street, Tully

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QPS are calling for safe driving after a devasting year on Far North Queensland roads. Photo source: QPS

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A motorcyclist allegedly travelling more than 60km/h above the speed limit on the Bruce Highway south of Cardwell has become a local example of the dangerous driving behaviours police are targeting during Queensland Road Safety Week.

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On 5th August, officers from Innisfail Highway Patrol allegedly detected a motorcycle travelling at 161km/h in a 100km/h zone on the Bruce Highway at Damper Creek, south of Cardwell.

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Police allege the rider, a 33-year-old Townsville man, evaded officers after police activated their lights and sirens.

The rider was intercepted a short time later near Ellerbeck and charged with one count of evade. He was also issued a Traffic Infringement Notice for exceeding the speed limit by more than 40km/h.

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The man received a $1,986 fine and eight demerit points, while his motorcycle was impounded for 90 days.

He is due to appear before Tully Magistrates Court on 3rd September.

The incident comes amid a concerning year on Far North Queensland roads, with police revealing 18 people have lost their lives in the region so far in 2026 — eight more than at the same time last year.

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Throughout Queensland Road Safety Week, officers are increasing enforcement activities targeting speeding, drink and drug driving, mobile phone use, fatigue and failure to wear seatbelts.

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Officer in charge of Cairns Highway Patrol Acting Senior Sergeant Greg Rose said the consequences of road trauma could be devastating for entire families.

“To have to tell someone’s partner, child or parent that their loved one won’t be coming home is one of the worst jobs we face as police officers,” Acting Senior Sergeant Rose said.

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“We are continuing to promote safe road behaviour in the Far North, to ensure no more families are devastated by road trauma.

“It’s not about revenue raising, it’s about making sure you, and other motorists make it home to their loved ones. One split second, poor decision can lead to a lifetime of pain for your family – it’s simply not worth it.”

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Queensland Police said enforcement alone could not prevent all dangerous behaviour and reminded motorists that every decision made behind the wheel can have consequences.

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Police are urging drivers across the Far North to slow down, stay off their phones, never drive under the influence, manage fatigue and always wear a seatbelt.

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Members of the Tully QCWA enjoying their monthly luncheon at The Tavern in Mission Beach. Photo Credit: Sian Bantock

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The Queensland Country Women’s Association (QCWA) Tully branch has been offering a supportive, community-focused environment for women since 1922. The organisation’s core values centre on empowering and inspiring women through friendship, educationand connection.

Members of the Tully QCWA gathered in Mission Beach for their monthly social on Friday 21st August.

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Debbie Morton has been a proud member of the QCWA for 10 years. She joined when looking for new connections after relocating from Townsville with her husband Wayne.

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“The first time I walked in, you could feel the warmth from the group. The core basics of the group are to be encouraging, supportive and building each other up." Debbie said.

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“One of the biggest issues is rural health and the distance we have to travel.

“That’s where our groups are needed to give that support and warmth, so that we know we’re not going through things alone."

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Among the branch’s fondest memories were those from the 90s, when their Tully rooms included bedrooms for expectant mothers. With limited transport options at the time, women nearing their due dates would stay at the QCWA to be close to the local hospital.

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The QCWA continues to play an active role in the community in supporting women and families across the Tully District.

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The branch has welcomed several new members recently and is always open to fresh faces. Anyone wishing to join can contact the group via email at tullybranch@qcwa.org.au

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Jan Anderson presenting Noelene Bryn with her 40 year service award  - Photo Supplied  

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By Sian Bantock

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The Tully Red Cross branch held an awards ceremony on Monday 17th to recognise the long-serving contributions of some of its members.  

Member of the Gordon Vale Red Cross Branch Jan Anderson, who has dedicated 60 years of service to the organisation, presented the awards to Giovani Milone and Mara Basik for 20 years, Sue Pollard for 30 years and Nolene Bryn for 40 years service.  

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The Red Cross is founded on the principles of  humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence and voluntary service and its core mission centres on hands-on assistance, fundraising and community connection.

Noelene Bryn, who joined in 1984, is the longest serving member of the Tully Branch. Over the decades, the group has visited hospitals and care homes, offered support to residents affected by accidents, fire, floods and cyclones; and contributed to local fundraising efforts.  

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“It was nice to recognised but we don’t go out looking for these things,” Noelene said.  

Reflecting on her time within the branch, she highlights the camaraderie that came with their monthly meetings.

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“I used to look forward to them. It was a highlight of my month having the meetings, they were engaging and we had a fellowship,” said Noelene.  

“I’ve held every role in the branch, from disaster officer, to treasurer to secretary. It’s very rewarding - I loved it back then and I still do.”

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The Tully branch currently has around 15 members. One of Noelene proudest achievements has been helping to recruit 8 new members in the past three months.  

Sue Pollard who received her 30-year award, credits Noelene for inviting her join.  

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“I just like to help and that’s what Red Cross is about. There’s a lot of people in need out there. It’s good to help people,” Sue said.

The Tully branch welcomes new members and holds its monthly meetings on the third Monday at 10am at the Red Cross hall in Tully.

The Balgal Beach boat ramp will undergo repairs and strengthening works following damage caused by flooding in 2025, with construction expected to continue through to October. Photo supplied

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Repairs to the Balgal Beach boat ramp are set to begin this month, with works aimed at restoring full access and making the popular facility more resilient to future flooding.

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The Queensland Government-funded project follows damage sustained during flooding in 2025, which resulted in the boat ramp being partially closed.

Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa said the works would address the damage while strengthening the facility for North Queensland conditions.

“The Balgal Beach boat ramp is an important piece of local infrastructure, and I know the partial closure has been frustrating for locals who regularly use it,” Mr Chiesa said.

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“These works are about getting the ramp fully reopened, but importantly, we’re not simply replacing what was damaged.

“We’re strengthening the ramp and its foundations to make it more resilient to the conditions we experience here in North Queensland.

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“Balgal Beach has a strong boating and fishing community, and reliable access to the water is important for locals, visitors and recreational fishers.”

The project will include replacing damaged precast concrete planks, reconstructing the lower section of the ramp and strengthening its foundations.

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An integrated rock bag and grout mattress shoulder will also be installed to improve the structure’s durability and provide greater protection against scour during future high-flow events.

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Construction is scheduled to take place from mid-August through to October 2026, weather and site conditions permitting.

The boat ramp will temporarily close during construction to allow the works to be completed safely and efficiently.

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Maritime Safety Queensland, which is delivering the project, has advised boaties that alternative waterway access will be available at the Toomulla boat ramp, approximately 16 kilometres from Balgal Beach.

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Mr Chiesa thanked residents for their patience while access to the facility has been restricted.

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“I thank the community for its patience while the ramp has been partially closed, and I’m pleased we can now get on with the job of repairing it properly,” he said.

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“This is a practical investment in a facility that matters to the Balgal Beach community, and I look forward to seeing locals back using the entire ramp later this year,” Mr Chiesa said.

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Garradunga Progress Association volunteers were all smiles at Saturday’s Bunnings sausage sizzle! Photo supplied

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Sausages were sizzling in Innisfail on Saturday as locals threw their support behind efforts to save the historic Garradunga Hall.

Eleven volunteers from the Garradunga Progress Association fired up the barbecue at Bunnings Innisfail on 22nd August, raising more than $650 through a sausage sizzle and 100 Board ticket sales.

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The funds will help the association meet upcoming costs while it continues its campaign to restore the much-loved 96-year-old hall, which requires more than $70,000 in repairs following a recent building inspection.

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But the day delivered more than dollars, with local businesses offering discounts, customers making donations and several generous shoppers even “paying it forward” by purchasing a snack for the next person.

Volunteers also enjoyed hearing memories of celebrations and events held at the hall over the decades, while sharing plans for its future.

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The association’s membership has more than doubled in the past three months as support for the restoration campaign continues to grow.

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The group hopes to return the “Hall Among the Canefields” to its former glory, once again providing a welcoming space for everything from classes and community gatherings to weddings, wakes and disaster recovery.

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HONEYCOMBES CELEBRATES FOUR FINALISTS IN PRESTIGIOUS JOHN DEERE TECHNICIAN AWARDS

Honeycombes Sales and Service is proud to announce that four of their Ayr based team members have been named finalists in the 2026 John Deere Technician Awards, recognising excellence across the agricultural service and partsindustries throughout Australia and New Zealand.

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The Honeycombes finalists include Adam Patane, recognised for Apprentice Service Technician of the Year, Mark Cullen in the running for Service Technician of the Year, and Demi Russell and Bradley Sibson as finalists for Parts Technician of the Year.

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The awards highlight the people behind the scenes who help keep the wheels of agriculture turning – the technicians and parts specialists who help farmers, contractors and businesses stay operational when every hour counts.

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“To have four Honeycombes team members recognised as finalists in the John Deere Technician Awards is an outstanding achievement and one we are incredibly proud of. Adam, Mark, Demi and Bradley are a great example of what can beachieved when we invest in local people - creating opportunities to build rewarding careers close to home, while developing the skills and expertise that give back to our communities and support the agricultural businesses that keep regional North Queensland moving.” said Mark Barrett, CEO.  

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We congratulate Adam Patane, Mark Cullen, Demi Russell and Bradley Sibson on being recognised among the industry’s best. We’re proud of your achievements and wish you every success at the Awards ceremony.

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PEOPLE LIKE THIS ARE BUILT HERE — YOU COULD BE NEXT.

World-class careers don’t have to start in the big cities. At Honeycombes, we’re developing the next generation of industry leaders right here in regional Queensland

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THEY STARTED WITH AN OPPORTUNITY. SO CAN YOU.

• Learn from some of the best in the industry

• Develop skills recognised at the highest level  

• Work with world-leading machinery and technology

• Build your career right here in regional Queensland

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ADAM PATANE

APPRENTICE SERVICE TECH REGIONAL FINALIST

For Apprentice Service Technician finalist Adam Patane, a career in agricultural machinery was a natural fit. Growing up on a third-generation family farm, Adam saw first-hand the impact machinery downtime can have on farming operations and developed a passion for keeping equipment moving.

Since joining Honeycombes as an apprentice in 2023, Adam has embraced every opportunity to learn, building his skills across diagnostics, hydraulics and diesel systems while earning a reputation for his positive attitude, attention to detail and strong work ethic.

“For me, it’s not just about fixing machines — it’s about making sure customers feel supported and confident,” Adam said.

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DEMI RUSSELL

PARTS TECHNICIAN REGIONAL FINALIST

Demi Russell’s passion for the industry was shaped early by her mother, who spent more than 35 years in parts and taught her the value of hard work and strong relationships.

“After school, I would often help her, which instilled in me the importance of a strong work ethic and building genuine customer relationships,” Demi said.

Now raising her family of four, Demi brings that same care and commitment to supporting customers and the agricultural community every day.

“I take pride in knowing that what I do helps keep machines in the paddock, supporting local businesses, strengthening the local economy, and contributing to a sustainable future for my family and community,” she said.

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MARK CULLEN

SERVICE TECHNICIAN REGIONAL FINALIST

Over the past six years, Mark Cullen has become a trusted name among Honeycombes customers, recognised for his technical expertise, reliability and ability to find solutions when they matter most.

“I’ve always enjoyed figuring out how things work and getting them back up and running,” Mark said.

That passion began early while helping his father with truck servicing and repairs, sparking a lifelong interest in machinery and supporting the people who rely on it every day.

Whether in the workshop or out in the field, Mark is known for his calm approach, problem-solving skills and commitment to helping customers keep their operations moving.

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BRADLEY SIBSON

PARTS TECHNICIAN REGIONAL FINALIST

For Parts Technician finalist, Bradley Sibson, helping customers minimise downtime is personal.

Having grown up on a cane and cattle property, Bradley understands the pressure farmers and contractors face when equipment isn’t operating as it should. That understanding drives the way he approaches his work each day.

“I understand how critical it is to keep machines running… I take pride in being someone customers can rely on,” Bradley said.

Customers consistently praise Bradley for his communication, responsiveness and determination to find solutions. Whether sourcing hard-to-find parts or exploring alternative options, he is known for going above and beyond.

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Hinchinbrook residents experiencing domestic and family violence can now access dedicated crisis assistance at any hour of the day or night through a new North Queensland support service.

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The new 1800NQSAFE phoneline provides 24/7 assistance to victim-survivors across the Hinchinbrook, Burdekin, Townsville and Palm Island local government areas, connecting callers with support tailored to their circumstances.

The service is part of the new North Queensland Domestic and Family Violence Networked Hub, established through a $21 million Queensland Government commitment over two years.

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For residents across Ingham and the wider Hinchinbrook Shire, the hub is designed to provide a more direct pathway between those seeking help and services including police, hospitals, housing providers and specialised domestic and family violence organisations.

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Minister for the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence Amanda Camm said the launch meant people across the region could access local support whenever they needed it.

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“We said we’d deliver this service in North Queensland and from today victims from Ingham to Ayr will be able to pick up the phone and receive the local help they deserve,” Minister Camm said.

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“Staff at UnitingCare, which is operating the 24/7 phoneline, know firsthand the complexity of domestic and family violence and understand that everyone who has the courage to make a phone call to seek help deserves to have that call answered.”

The service is operated by UnitingCare, with trained staff available around the clock to listen, discuss options, assist with safety planning and connect callers with appropriate services.

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UnitingCare General Manager, Targeted Support, Family and Disability Services, Joanne Trentin said access to support outside standard business hours was vital.

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“Domestic and family violence can escalate at any hour, and when someone is ready to reach out for help, it's critical that support is there,” Ms Trentin said.

“Having support available 24 hours a day, seven days a week means people can reach someone when they need to; someone who can listen, help them understand their options, support safety planning and connect them with the services they need.

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“1800NQSAFE is about making that pathway to support simpler and more immediate, so people experiencing domestic and family violence don't have to navigate those moments alone.”

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The initiative forms part of broader domestic and family violence reforms being rolled out across Queensland, including Police Protection Directions and GPS monitoring which courts can impose on high-risk perpetrators.

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Hinchinbrook residents seeking assistance can contact 1800NQSAFE 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

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2026 School Captain Ava Ackery meeting with ISHS’s specialist teachers. Photo supplied

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At Ingham State High School, we have a strong focus on three key pillars - Expert Teachers, Supported Learners, and High Standards.

Ingham State High School Principal, Mr Rod Flood states, “it is our staff that make the difference. We have many long-term staff that have a deep commitment to our school and an unwavering belief in the potential of our students. The connection that our students have to their teachers lasts beyond the school fence.”

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All Year 5 students across the district are invited to attend a High School Experience Day at Ingham State High School this Thursday 27th August. The day provides students with their first opportunity to experience aspects of high school life in a welcoming and engaging environment. Students will participate in a range of activities designed to introduce them to the opportunities and experiences available at secondary school, while helping to build confidence and familiarity ahead of their future transition.

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As part of their ongoing preparation for high school, Year 6 students from across the district will join us again in Term 4 for a further Transition Day on Friday, 23rd October.  

Parents and caregivers are welcome to contact Ingham State High School at any time to discuss any aspect of our school. Enrolment enquiries are always welcome, with enrolment interviews for 2027 to be conducted shortly.  

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Come and join us at Ingham State High School – where friendships, opportunities and bright futures begin!

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Contributed with thanks by Ingham State High School  

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‘St Peter’s Catholic School is a place where every child is known, valued and supported to reach their full potential.’ Photos supplied

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Contributed with thanks by St Peter’s Catholic School

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As a proud Catholic educational community, St Peter’s Catholic School is a place where every child is known, valued and supported to reach their full potential. Grounded in faith, love and respect, we provide a nurturing environment where students develop academically, socially and spiritually.

Our commitment to inclusive education ensures that individual learning needs are recognised and supported, allowing every student to thrive. We foster a strong sense of belonging where children feel safe, connected and confident, knowing they are an important part of our school family.

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In our small school environment, every student has opportunities to participate, lead and succeed. A wide range of extracurricular activities encourages students to explore their talents and interests, ensuring all students are engaged in the life of the school.

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Through strong partnerships with families and the wider community, combined with high expectations for learning and wellbeing, St Peter’s celebrates the success of every student.

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Enrolments for 2027 are now open. We warmly invite families to discover the difference of a caring, inclusive and faith-filled school community.

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Business Support Officer Tayah Doolan and Area Manger Michael Thomson with the SatCom at Mount Fox RFB. Photo supplied

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Contributed with thanks by Wayde Chiesa MP, Member for Hinchinbrook

Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa is pleased to share that Mount Fox Rural Fire Brigade is among the first brigades in Queensland to receive new satellite communications technology, helping local volunteers stay connected in remote and isolated areas.  

The new equipment will be installed in frontline Rural Fire Service Queensland vehicles, helping volunteers maintain communications in areas where traditional mobile coverage can be limited or unavailable.  

Mr Chiesa said the satellite communications rollout would strengthen local emergency response capability across the region.  

“Our volunteer firefighters are often responding in rural and remote areas where communication can be challenging, particularly during fast-moving emergencies,” Mr Chiesa said.  

“By equipping Mount Fox Rural Fire Brigade with satellite communications, the Crisafulli Government is helping volunteers stay connected in the field and better coordinate their response when it matters most.”  

The rollout forms part of the State Government's $5 million election commitment to equip more than 400 Rural Fire Service Queensland brigades across the State with satellite communications capability.  

RFSQ Deputy Chief Officer Clint Tunnie said the new technology would help keep crews safe and connected while responding to emergencies.  

“Satellite technology gives us the opportunity to keep our teams safe, because any communication we can maintain while firefighting helps us know where our crews are and what they’re doing,” Deputy Chief Officer Tunnie said.  

“It gives our crews the ability to stay connected and call for help when it’s needed, particularly in areas where other communications may not be available.  

“This technology simply wasn’t available to us in the past.”  

RFSQ Chief Officer Kaylene Jones said the rollout would further strengthen frontline operations as the service continues to enhance its fleet capabilities.  

“Satellite connectivity provides an extra layer of safety for our frontline crews, particularly during bushfires and other emergencies where traditional communication networks may be unavailable,” Chief Officer Jones said.  

“Maintaining reliable communications helps our firefighters make informed decisions, improves situational awareness and supports safer operations in the field.  

“As we prepare for another higher-risk bushfire period, investments like this continue to strengthen the capability of our volunteer brigades across Queensland.”

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