Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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Kaiti-Rae Beatts | 24

Service Club Sponsor: Apex Club of Herbert River

Hobbies & Interests

Kaiti-Rae loves photography, capturing Hinchinbrook’s landscapes, wildlife and people, as well as spending time outdoors with her dogs. At home, she enjoys cooking for loved ones, crocheting gifts and writing her fantasy adventure novel. She is passionate about supporting her community, serving as Youth Co-Ordinator for the Purple Bucket Foundation and helping organise local fundraisers, including Ronald McDonald McHappy Day. She is also an active member of the Hinchinbrook Agricultural Show Committee.

Life Goals

Kaiti-Rae hopes to publish her fantasy novel and see it available in local shops or the community library. As a young homeowner, she also dreams of growing her family, continuing to support local eventsand one day organising her own community events in Hinchinbrook.

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Paige Williamson | 23

Service Club Sponsor: Lions Club of Ingham

Hobbies & Interests

Paige enjoys photography, camping and heading out on new adventures. Whether she is exploring the outdoors or capturing special moments behind the camera, she loves making memories along the way. Spending quality time with her family is also important to her, and she enjoys sharing life's experiences with the people closest to her.

Life Goals

Paige dreams of travelling the world, discovering new places and experiencing different cultures. She hopes to explore as much of the world as possible, embracing new adventures and making lasting memories along the way.

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Janae Pearce | 20

Service Club Sponsor: Lions Club of Lower Herbert Halifax

Hobbies & Interests

Janae has a passion for musical theatre, sport and content creation. She enjoys playing touch football and netball, while her interest in Indigenous studies reflects her commitment to learning more about culture, identity and community. Janae is enthusiastic about developing her creative talents and expanding her knowledge both on and off the stage.

Life Goals

Janae hopes to complete university, strengthen and support local Indigenous communities, and continue developing her skills and knowledge in musical theatre. She also dreams of travelling, exploring new places and broadening her experiences along the way.

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Brianna Lamari | 24

Service Club Sponsor: Rotary Club of Hinchinbrook

Hobbies & Interests

Brianna enjoys keeping active through squash and has achieved her second-degree black belt in taekwondo. A passionate football fan, she also loves spending time with family and friends. Whether she is pursuing her sporting interests or enjoying time with loved ones, Brianna values staying connected to the people and activities she enjoys.

Life Goals

Brianna hopes to put down roots in Hinchinbrook, own her own home with a large backyard and raise a family in the community she loves. She also dreams of sharing her home with a few adopted animals, creating a happy and welcoming place for her family to grow.

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Jacob Cassidy of Mungalla Aboriginal Tours won the Richard Power Award for Outstanding Contribution by an Individual, while Kurt Harlow of Hidden Valley Cabins and Tours received the Graham Jackson Young Achiever Award. Chamber President Mary Brown seen here holding Kurt’s award. Photo source: Mary Brown

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Two Hinchinbrook tourism operators have been recognised for their contributions to the region’s tourism industry, taking home top honours at the North Queensland Tourism and Events Awards on Friday October 16th.

Jacob Cassidy of Mungalla Aboriginal Tours won the Richard Power Award for Outstanding Contribution by an Individual, while Kurt Harlow of Hidden Valley Cabins and Tours received the Graham Jackson Young Achiever Award.

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President of the Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Tourism Mary Brown attended the awards, congratulating both winners on their achievements.

“It was a privilege to be present to witness two of Hinchinbrook’s tourism operators announced as winners,” Ms Brown said.

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She also acknowledged the Hinchinbrook Visitor Information Centre team, who were finalists in two categories.

“Wonderful to acknowledge the many talented and committed people who support and deliver the diverse tourism experiences into the Hinchinbrook Shire,” Ms Brown said.

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The North Queensland Tourism and Events Awards recognise excellence across the region’s tourism industry, celebrating the people, places, organisations and events that go above and beyond to deliver outstanding visitor experiences throughout Townsville North Queensland.

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Hinchinbrook Cup Races 2025, Fashions in the Fields Classic Lady of the Track Winner & Runner-up. Photo credit: Donna Marbelli

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The race that brings the region together is back, with the Herbert River Jockey Club preparing for a day of country racing, trackside fashion and live music when the NQIB Country Cups Challenge Qualifier and Hinchinbrook Cup Race Day returns on Saturday, 14th November 2026.  

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With five local races on the card, punters can enjoy a full day trackside before the celebrations continue into the evening with local band SuperSweet taking to the stage from 6pm.  

Gates at the Herbert River Jockey Club, 67-69 Marina Parade, Ingham, will open at 11am, with local and southern bookmakers, Sky Racing and the ever-popular Fashions on the Field adding to the race day atmosphere.  

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This year's Fashions on the Field, will embrace the theme Country Glamour, inviting racegoers to put their own spin on trackside style.  

Categories include Contemporary Lady of the Track, Classic Lady of the Track, Best Dressed Man of the Track, Millinery, Spotter's Choice and Kids categories.  

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With prizes supported by local and surrounding businesses, the competition offers racegoers an opportunity to showcase their personal style while adding a splash of glamour to the day's festivities. Judging takes place between races, giving spectators the chance to watch the fashion proceedings trackside.  

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General admission is $15 per person, with tickets available online in advance or at the gate on race day. Tables seating 10 people can be reserved online for $100 per table.  

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Food will be available from the race day canteen, operated by Marian and Piera Catering as patrons are reminded that eskies, glass, BYO alcohol, containers of liquid, tables and chairs are not permitted through the gate.  

For tickets and table bookings scan the QR code below, and for further information, visit www.hrjc.com.au

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WHAT: HRJC Country Cups Challenge and Hinchinbrook Cup Race Day
WHEN: 11am, Saturday, 14th November 2026
WHERE: Herbert River Jockey Club, 67-69 Marina Parade, Ingham

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Representatives from local services and providers at the disaster preparedness display, including Casie Scott, Jane Carne, Councillor Donna Marbelli, Josie Pickering and Dan Cordner Photo credit: Sherie Hensler-Adams

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Hinchinbrook residents had the opportunity to speak directly with local emergency services and telecommunications providers at a disaster preparedness pop-up display held at the Woolworths Complex in Ingham on Wednesday 14th October.

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Hosted by the Hinchinbrook Local Disaster Management Group, the event aimed to help residents prepare for the upcoming wet season by providing practical advice, answering questions and highlighting the importance of being ready for cyclones, floods and severe storms.

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Representatives from the State Emergency Service (SES) Halifax and Ingham Groups, Queensland Police Service, Hinchinbrook Shire Council, Telstra and NBN Australia were on hand throughout the day to share information and discuss simple steps households can take to improve their preparedness.

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Topics included preparing emergency kits, maintaining adequate food and drinking water supplies, planning for power outages, ensuring access to essential medications and developing a household emergency plan.

With the 2025 February weather event still a fresh memory, residents were also encouraged to consider whether their households could remain self-sufficient for seven to 10 days if a similar severe weather cut road access and prevented essential supplies from reaching the region.

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Knowing where to find important documents, emergency contacts and essential medications was also highlighted as an important part of preparing for an emergency.

With the wet season approaching, the display provided an opportunity for community members to seek advice directly from local services and better understand the resources available to help protect themselves, their families, pets and properties.

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Residents can access local disaster warnings, updates and preparedness information through the Hinchinbrook Disaster Information website at disaster.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au

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Jane from the Hinchinbrook Local Disaster Management Group, Jenna from Queensland Health, Chloe from Australian Red Cross and members of the Ingham Lions Club worked together to put on a BBQ at Anzac Memorial Park. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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A sausage sizzle, a cool drink and a friendly conversation brought locals together at Anzac Memorial Park as the Australian Red Cross teamed up with the Hinchinbrook Local Disaster Management Group, Queensland Health and the Ingham Lions Club to promote wet season preparedness, mental health support and community connection, particularly for Ingham’s most vulnerable residents.

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Held on Tuesday 13th October, the free community event aimed to help residents, particularly those experiencing housing instability, prepare for the months ahead. The event provided practical advice, answered questions and highlighted the importance of being ready for cyclones, floods and severe storms, especially for people who may have limited access to resources or support.

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Representatives from the Australian Red Cross and Queensland Health also set up information tables, sharing useful resources and goodie bags while offering advice.

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The event demonstrated the value of community support in its simplest form.

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Sometimes, looking after one another starts with a snag in the park.

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It is time to get ready people as we start to enter our high risk weather season, our well regarded wet season.

The key to getting ready revolves around three key elements. Know the risk that you may face. Make a plan on how you will deal with those risks and then make preparations to fit your plan including getting an emergency kit together.

There is a lot of information available both in digital format or hard copy if you need assistance with knowing your risks or how to prepare. Hard copy information is available at Council’s main office on Lannercost Street, and digitally you can find information on Council's website, Disaster Support & Preparedness page www.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au/Community-and-Events/Disaster-Support-Preparedness

A Get Ready Queensland stall will be held at the Woolworths complex, 29 Ann Street, Ingham, on Wednesday 14th October between 8.30am and 2.30pm. The display is being hosted by our Hinchinbrook Local Disaster Management Group and will bring together representatives from Council, SES, Queensland Police and NBN. It will be a great opportunity to learn more about disaster preparedness, ask questions and access practical information ahead of the upcoming wet and cyclone season.

So it will be great to see you there.

And talking about Telstra, are you aware of the new Temporary Disaster Roaming (TDR) capability. If your mobile network is affected during an extreme weather event, such as a bushfire, flood or cyclone, your phone may be able to connect to another participating carrier's mobile network, where available, to help you make essential calls and texts. If Telstra is the only network operating in the affected area, Optus and TPG customers may also be able to connect through Telstra network where safe to do so. This new capability is already online and ready in time for this disaster season. It’s designed to help customers stay connected, with access to essential calls, texts and basic data where possible and there is no extra cost.

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Mayor Jayo was part of a mayoral delegation standing up against proposed changes to disaster relief funding. Photo source: LGAQ

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The Federal Government has scrapped proposed changes to disaster recovery funding following strong opposition from Queensland councils and the State Government.  

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Hinchinbrook Mayor Ramon Jayo had previously shared warnings that the changes would have placed an unsustainable financial burden on the region.

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Hinchinbrook Welcomes Disaster Funding Reversal

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By Victoria Velton

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The Federal Government’s decision to abandon proposed changes to disaster recovery funding has been welcomed by all levels of local and state government, who warned a shift to a 50:50 funding split would have placed significant financial pressure on the region’s disaster-prone communities.

The announcement, made on Friday 9th October, follows strong opposition from Queensland councils, mayors and the State Government, who argued the proposed changes would leave local authorities struggling to cover the additional costs of rebuilding after natural disasters.

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Under the proposal, the Federal Government would have reduced its disaster recovery contribution from up to 75 per cent to a flat 50 per cent, increasing the financial burden on state and local governments.

Mayor of Hinchinbrook said the decision to rescind the changes was a relief for the region, which regularly faces flooding and other natural disasters.

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“We're thankful for the government listening to our concerns,” Mayor Ramon Jayo said.

“It was going to be a significant cost to our community, a cost that our community cannot afford. So we're very grateful to the government for listening.”

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The Mayor said Hinchinbrook’s geography made the region particularly vulnerable to flooding, with the Herbert River draining nearly 70 per cent of all rainfall in the Wet Tropics area.

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The potential financial implications were a significant concern for the local authority, which has limited resources to absorb additional disaster recovery costs.

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“I'll start sleeping at night now,” Mayor Ramon Jayo said.

“It was very concerning because we tend to have a disaster every year. If not, every second year.”

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Over the past decade, Hinchinbrook has been impacted by natural disasters to the extent of approximately $70 million, averaging between $3 million and $3.5 million annually.

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“We're only a small council, a small local authority area,” the Mayor said.

“In the current climate, that's just about impossible to find without significantly impacting our community.”

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Queensland Premier David Crisafulli also welcomed the Federal Government’s decision, thanking the Prime Minister for listening to concerns raised by the State Government and councils across Queensland.

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“We now wait to see further details, and ensure this is delivered and funding arrangements are maintained in full, so Queenslanders can have certainty and confidence in their hour of need during disaster season,” Mr Crisafulli said.

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The Premier said the State Government had stood alongside mayors, the Local Government Association of Queensland and councils to oppose the proposed changes, adding that the decision would help protect the state’s disaster recovery arrangements ahead of the upcoming season.

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Hinchinbrook MP Wayde Chiesa described the announcement as “great news for Queensland and particularly our communities across Hinchinbrook”.

Mr Chiesa said North Queensland’s history of cyclones and flooding demonstrated why reliable disaster recovery funding was essential.

“Our coastline between Townsville and Cairns is one of the most disaster-prone regions in Australia,” he said.

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“Who could forget Cyclone Larry, Cyclone Yasi, Cyclone Kirrily, the devastating Townsville floods in 2019 or the floods that swept through our region again in 2025?”

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“For North Queenslanders, natural disasters aren’t once-in-a-generation events. They’re a reality of where we live.”

Mr Chiesa said regional councils and communities could not afford to shoulder additional rebuilding costs every time disaster struck, acknowledging the collective advocacy of Queensland’s 77 mayors in opposing the proposal.

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“The devil will be in the detail, but today’s announcement is a positive step,” he said.

“I’ll continue fighting to ensure Hinchinbrook gets its fair share of disaster recovery funding. It’s simply too important not to get it right.”

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While the decision to abandon the proposed changes has provided relief for councils and communities, further details are still needed to confirm the arrangements will be maintained in full.

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For Hinchinbrook, where disaster recovery costs place ongoing pressure on a small council’s budget, maintaining the existing funding arrangements will be critical to ensuring the region can recover when the next disaster strikes.

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The Riverfest Queen competition attracted five entrants, with Amity Stewart crowned Riverfest Queen and Sofia Xiong receiving the Community Spirit Award. Photo credit: Vince Sofia

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Innisfail turned on the party, with record crowds flocking to Riverfest for a huge celebration of music, machinery and community spirit.

An estimated 10,000 people attended over the weekend, filling the riverfront for Innisfail’s biggest Riverfest yet. Australian rock favourites Eskimo Joe brought the festival to a spectacular close, capping off an unforgettable weekend.

Among the highlights was the Riverfest Queen competition, with five local contestants stepping into the spotlight. With attractions for all ages, sold-out food stalls and outstanding community support, Riverfest once again proved Innisfail knows how to put on a show.

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Riverfest Rocks Innisfail With Record Crowds

By Helen Cook

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Innisfail's Riverfest has delivered its biggest celebration yet, with thousands flocking to the riverfront at the weekend for an afternoon and evening packed with entertainment, attractions and community spirit.

Committee member Vince Sofia described this year's event as a resounding success, with crowds believed to have exceeded last year's estimated 10,000 visitors.

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"It was fantastic. It was so well supported by the community. It was definitely the largest crowd we've ever pulled," Vince said.

Australian rock favourites Eskimo Joe brought the celebrations to a spectacular close, while local band Beer Body proved a huge hit, warming up the crowd ahead of the headline act.

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Throughout the afternoon, families enjoyed reptile displays, roving entertainment, vintage and new car displays, and an impressive collection of sugar industry machinery, including locomotives, a steam engine and cane harvesting equipment.

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An aerobatic display by pilot Bob Harris added excitement overhead, while television personality Paul Burt returned as event ambassador and MC.

The Riverfest Queen competition attracted five entrants, with Amity Stewart crowned Riverfest Queen and Sofia Xiong receiving the Community Spirit Award.

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With food stalls reportedly selling out and glowing feedback flooding social media, Vince said the response had been overwhelming.

He paid tribute to the local businesses, sponsors, volunteers and community organisations whose contributions made the event possible.

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"Without them, this event would not happen," he said.

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For Innisfail, Riverfest was another shining example of what a community can achieve when everyone gets behind a great local celebration.

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Ingham Wholelife Pharmacy & Healthfoods stocks a large range of protein options. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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Protein Packs A Punch!

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When we think of protein, it is easy to picture gym-goers reaching for a shake before a workout. But protein plays an important role in everyone’s diet, helping the body build and repair muscles, supporting healthy bones, and maintainingtissues throughout the body.

Getting enough protein can also help you feel fuller for longer, making it an important part of a balanced diet and a healthy approach to maintaining energy throughout the day.

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Protein is found naturally in a wide range of foods, including meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, beans, lentils, nuts and seeds. However, busy lifestyles can sometimes make it difficult to get enough through meals alone.

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That is where convenient protein products can help. Ingham Wholelife Pharmacy & Healthfoods stocks a variety of protein options to suit different tastes, routines and dietary needs, including ready-to-drink shakes, grab-and-go protein bars, and suit-to-size options for powders and cordials.

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Whether you are looking for a convenient breakfast option, something to keep you going between meals or nutritional support when exercising, there are plenty of ways to incorporate protein into your daily routine.

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Ingham Wholelife Pharmacy & Healthfoods is running a huge 40 per cent off on select protein products, so now’s the time to pop in and explore their vast range and find an option that suits you.

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Hinchinbrook residents will have the opportunity to learn more about staying connected during emergencies when the nbn team visits Ingham for this week’s Get Set For the Wet event.

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The nbn team will be available to answer questions about emergency connectivity, network resilience and the Fibre to the Premises upgrades being rolled out in Ingham.

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Residents can also learn how nbn emergency messaging helps keep communities informed about network impacts during emergency events, providing important information when severe weather and other disruptions affect telecommunications services.

The visit will give locals the chance to discuss connectivity options available for their individual properties and find out whether their address may be eligible for an upgrade.

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With the wet season approaching, understanding how to stay informed and connected during an emergency is an important part of household preparedness.

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Community members are encouraged to drop by, ask questions and speak directly with the nbn team about their connectivity needs.

Residents can also check their eligibility for regional connectivity upgrades online at www.nbn.com.au/CheckRegional

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WHAT: nbn team public connect Get Set For the Wet
WHEN: 8:30am – 2:30pm, Wednesday 14th October 2026
WHERE: Woolworths Complex, 29 Ann Street, Ingham

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There are some places that will always hold a special place in your heart, and for me, Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club is one of them. It is the club I grew up in, and over the weekend it was wonderful to return for the annual surf lifesaving carnival and catch up with so many familiar faces.

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On Saturday, I was pleased to support the club's Life Members function, recognising the people who have dedicated so much of their lives to surf lifesaving and our local community.

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These clubs are built on generations of volunteers, families and members who give their time to keep our beaches safe and create opportunities for young people. Forrest Beach is a wonderful example of that community spirit.

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Sunday morning was particularly special, as we gathered with family, friends and club members to remember former Patron and Life Member Kauko Kaurila, following his recent passing.

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Kauk was a remarkable man whose contribution to surf lifesaving spanned generations. He became a Life Member in 1955–56, served as Patron for 70 years and was an accomplished champion in surf and belt swimming.

In 1954, he also won the inaugural Magnetic Island to Townsville Swim.

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It was a privilege to join his family and the club in laying a wreath into the ocean he loved so much. People like Kauk helped build the club I was fortunate enough to grow up in, and his legacy will live on through the generations who follow.

My thoughts remain with his family and everyone at Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club.

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There has also been encouraging progress on another important commitment for our region, the revitalisation of Port Hinchinbrook.

The latest update confirms that the assessment of dredging tenders has progressed, site preparation is underway and environmental approval processes continue.

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There is still plenty of work ahead, but each step brings us closer to restoring this important asset and unlocking new opportunities for Cardwell and the broader region.

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This week, I am back in Brisbane for Parliament, continuing to raise the issues that matter to our communities.

Whether it is community safety, supporting our local industries, improving infrastructure or delivering on commitments like Port Hinchinbrook, I remain focused on making sure Hinchinbrook's voice is heard.

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And weekends like the one at Forrest Beach are a reminder of exactly why that work matters - our people, our communities and the generations who have helped make Hinchinbrook such a special place to call home.

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Celebrations were hosted at the Upper Stone CWA hall, with a cutting of a ribbon to signify the opening of the new mobile base station. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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By Victoria Velton

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Residents and visitors to Upper Stone are now better connected following the installation of a new mobile base station funded by the Federal Government and Telstra through the Mobile Black Spot Program.

The improved mobile coverage is expected to benefit the small community west of Ingham, supporting local sugar-cane farming operations, businesses and visitors exploring the walking trails and camping areas near Girringun National Park.

Hinchinbrook Shire Deputy Mayor Mary Brown said the improved connectivity would make a significant difference to everyday life in the community.

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“You only have to look at the community here to understand what connectivity means to them. Speaking with Lorna, the Australia Post contractor, she explained that without Telstra coverage, she couldn’t scan parcels to drop them off. There was no coverage, so she couldn’t do her job.

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“Connectivity changes people’s lives, even in ordinary circumstances, let alone during emergencies. People in cities and urban areas often take electricity and communications for granted, but almost everything we do now relies on connectivity.

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“When you don’t have those basics, it limits what you can do in your everyday life. The locals are immensely appreciative to have this connectivity where previously they had none.”

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Federal Minister for Communications Anika Wells said the new infrastructure was part of the Government’s broader investment in regional telecommunications.

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“No Australian should be left behind when it comes to connectivity and we are investing heavily in telecommunications infrastructure in partnership with industry to keep places like Upper Stone connected.”

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Telstra Regional General Manager Rachel Cliffe said the tower would strengthen the community’s connectivity and resilience, particularly during emergencies.

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“The new tower at Upper Stone is a significant investment in the connectivity and resilience of the local community. Reliable mobile coverage is essential during times of disaster and emergency, helping residents stay informed, contact emergency services, and keep in touch with family and friends when it matters most.

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“Beyond emergencies, this new infrastructure will support day-to-day life and economic activity in the region, including improved connectivity for local farming operations and businesses that increasingly rely on digital technology to remain productive and competitive.

“It has been wonderful to partner with the Australian Government to deliver this crucial technology, ensuring communities like Upper Stone can access the connectivity they need to live, work and thrive.”

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The Mobile Black Spot Program has supported funding for more than 1,400 new mobile base stations nationwide, representing a combined investment of more than $1 billion.

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Recent rounds of the program form part of the Better Connectivity Plan for Regional and Rural Australia, which aims to improve telecommunications access across the country.

The Ogilvie family took out first prize for the most fish caught by a family, reeling in an impressive 103 tilapia. Cr Jeff Baines presented the winning prize. Photo: Cassowary Coast Regional Council

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Young anglers and families have reeled in some impressive results at the 2026 Tilapia Tournament at Warrina Lakes, with the winners announced following another successful community event.

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Over two and a half days, 444 participants caught an incredible 2,163 tilapia, helping reduce the number of invasive pest fish threatening local waterways.

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Among the standout competitors was Lucian Di Carlo, who dominated the 13–18 years category, catching an impressive 212 fish and landing the longest at 31cm.

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In the 6–12 years category, Spencer Torrisi topped the boys' tally with 144 fish, while Jamine Zupp led the girls with 33. Riley Guerra caught the longest boys' fish at 30cm, while Jessika Tammiku landed the longest girls' catch at 29cm.

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The youngest anglers also showed plenty of enthusiasm. In the five years and under category, Elani De Maria caught 54 fish and recorded the longest girls' catch at 29cm, while Brody McSwan reeled in 48 fish. William Scarfe landed the longest boys' fish at 29.5cm.

In the teenage girls' category, Amber Carita took out both prizes, catching one fish measuring 25cm.

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Families also got into the competitive spirit, with the Ogilvie family taking first place in Saturday's family competition with 103 fish, followed by the Torrisi family with 87, Higgins family with 83 and Lysons family with 33.

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Good Counsel Primary School claimed the Best School award.

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Beyond the prizes, the tournament gave young people an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, develop their fishing skills and learn about protecting local waterways.

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With the weather warming up the pool is calling, and Mission Beach Aquatic Centre lifeguard Danny Foersfrank is keeping an eye on swimmers and catching up on what's happening around the region in Cassowary Coast Life.

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The Year 12 student at Tully State High School works part-time at the pool, where he has a pretty cool spot to spend the warmer months. With graduation just around the corner, Danny is looking forward to finishing school and considering his next adventure.

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He plans to stay in the area initially, working at the pool for a while before heading off to travel – preferably “somewhere with a very different, cooler, climate,” he says.

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For now, you'll find Danny poolside, catching up on the news and helping everyone stay safe in the water.

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Julie Dean in her Tully salon where she employs seven staff and trains the next generation of local beauty therapists. Photo credit: Helen Cook

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What began as a small home-based beauty business while raising two young children has blossomed into a thriving Tully salon, employing seven staff and offering an extensive range of beauty treatments.

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For local businesswoman Julie Dean, the growth of Julie’s Beauty Spot has been an unexpected journey since she first opened her doors in 1998.

“I started from home first because I had two little babies, and it was only ever meant to be just a couple of days a week, just to keep my hand in,” Julie said.  

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“It was never meant to be what it's become!”

After seven years working from home, Julie moved into premises in Still Street, where the business expanded and she began employing and training local young women.

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“I’ve trained a lot of young girls over the years, and loved it,” she said.

Through school-based and other traineeships, Julie has helped young women gain qualifications and practical experience in beauty therapy, including makeup, lashes and brows.

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Her commitment to her team is reflected in the loyalty of long-serving therapists Narelle and Haylee, who have each been with her for 18 years.

The business is also a family affair. Daughter Jessica returned to Tully after five years in Canada, where she worked in the film industry as a special effects makeup artist. Today, she helps manage the salon and its social media.

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Two years ago, Julie and husband Ando completed their biggest project yet transforming a former shed into a purpose-built beauty salon.

“While both of us were running our businesses, we did this after work and weekends to build what we've got. We're very proud of what we've created in here.”

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Today, the salon offers everything from facials, massage and waxing to manicures, pedicures, gel and acrylic nails, lash extensions, brow treatments, spray tanning, massage and special-occasion makeup.

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With Christmas parties, graduations and summer celebrations just around the corner, Julie and her team are gearing up for a busy season. Book early to secure your preferred appointment at Julie’s Beauty Spot, 8 Watkins Street, Tully. Phone 4068 2788 or visit www.juliesbeautyspot.com.

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