The countdown is on for one of North Queensland’s biggest annual events, with the 2025 Long Pocket Earthmoving Ingham Sugar City Rodeo set to take over the Ingham Showgrounds on Saturday, 6 September.

This year’s rodeo promises all the thrills, spills, and family fun the event is known for – with an extra special highlight. In a true show of community spirit, Nick Dametto, State Member for Hinchinbrook, and Glenn Hall, former North Queensland Toyota Cowboys forward and current Team Manager, will climb onto the back of a bull to raise funds for the Ingham Palliative Care Unit.

Both men have set an ambitious goal of $10,000, determined to support the unit’s vital work in providing care and comfort to locals and their families. Rodeo organisers are encouraging the community to get behind the cause. Donations can be made online at gofund.me/6dcfe141.

Gates open at 8am, with a full day of rodeo action including bull riding, barrel racing, junior events, live music, food stalls, and local market vendors.

Tickets are on sale now via trybooking.com/DBCUT
. Don’t miss this year’s rodeo — and the chance to see two local legends #RideForACause!

The renowned Thorsborne Trail on Hinchinbrook Island (Munamudanamy) is receiving a significant upgrade, with works currently underway to enhance visitor experience while preserving the island’s unique natural and cultural values.

Led by the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, the project is being delivered in close collaboration with Bandjin and Girramay Traditional Owners. The aim is to improve infrastructure along the 32-kilometre trail without compromising the remote and pristine character that has made it one of Queensland’s most celebrated multi-day hikes.

As part of the upgrade, key camping areas along the trail are being refreshed, with improvements designed to ensure walkers remain immersed in nature. Other enhancements include better trail infrastructure, signage, and environmental protection measures, supporting sustainable tourism and maintaining visitor safety.

Hinchinbrook Island is part of the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area and is recognised for its rugged landscapes, rich biodiversity and cultural significance. Access to the trail remains limited, with bookings capped to protect the environment and maintain the low-impact nature of the experience.

The Thorsborne Trail enhancement project reflects the Queensland Government’s broader commitment to strengthening partnerships with Traditional Owners and delivering ecotourism experiences that celebrate both nature and culture.

For more details, visit the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service website.

Rural Aid has launched a powerful new fundraising campaign to secure the future of rural Australia by supporting the next generation of farmers — the children growing up on the land today.

These children are not only the future of their family farms, but also the future custodians of Australia’s food supply. Right now, many are facing significant challenges. From natural disasters to financial stress, country kids often grow up surrounded by uncertainty, with the weight of the farm’s future on their young shoulders.

Rural Aid is raising funds to provide both immediate and long-term support for country kids and their families. Donations will help deliver practical support including hay, domestic water, financial assistance, specialist counselling services, and continued delivery of Rural Aid’s Mustering Growth program — a school-based mental health and wellbeing initiative designed to build resilience and emotional strength in rural students.

Rural Aid CEO John Warlters said the campaign is about much more than providing short-term support.

“If we want to keep young people on the land, we must support them now and from an early age. These kids are growing up in incredibly trying circumstances, but they are also the future of farming in this country,” Mr Warlters said.

“Many of our farms are passed down through generations. When we nurture country kids, when we support their wellbeing, confidence and connection to community, we’re not just helping them today. We’re safeguarding rural Australia’s future.”

For families like Danny and Erin Hutchinson, cattle and cropping farmers from Biddon, NSW, the value of support is deeply felt. Their children — Amelia (8), Ali (6) and Lockie (3) — are growing up with plenty of space to explore, but also with the stress of drought and financial strain close to home.

“We’re just so grateful for the support we received from Rural Aid,” said Ms Hutchinson. “It made a real difference, not just to the farm, but to our whole family’s wellbeing.”

Recent Rural Aid research highlights the scale of the challenge:
41% of farming parents are most concerned about financial stability and meeting their child’s basic needs
57% believe rural children need access to tailored mental health support
83% of farming families have used or would use Rural Aid’s counselling services

The campaign aims to ensure country kids have the support, skills and confidence they need to grow into strong, capable adults who can carry their communities, and the farming sector, into the future.

To help secure the future of our country kids and Australian farming, donate today at www.countrykids.ruralaid.org.au.

As rural Australia’s most trusted agribusiness, Elders has played an important role in the agricultural sector for more than 185 years. Our expansive network across Australia offers links to markets, tailored advice and specialist knowledge across a range of products and services, including farm supplies, agronomy, livestock, wool, grain, finance, insurance, and real estate.

Elders is committed to a sustainable and prosperous future for rural and regional communities, and creating value for all stakeholders in the agricultural supply chain, across both Australian and international markets.

That same dedication can be found locally, through the branch in Ingham. Over the past five years, Elders Ingham has been servicing agricultural clients in the region and giving back to the local community.

Today, the team continues that commitment from its new premises at 23 Barnes Street, Ingham. Clients can expect the same friendly team and specialist advice, all backed by the strength of Elders’ national network.

Elders is for Australian agriculture.

Hinchinbrook Shire Council reminds landholders that, under current arrangements, flood debris removal from cane paddocks is only available until Tuesday, 30th of September 2025.

Council acknowledges that this timeframe is not ideal, particularly as the harvesting season is expected to continue through to November. As such, Council has been advocating for an extension of the program to align with the end of harvest, ensuring clean-up services remain available as needed.

However, government agencies have advised that an extension will only be considered if there is clear and demonstrated demand for continued debris removal. To date, only eight requests have been received, which is not sufficient to justify an extension.

This low response suggests there is limited need for the program to continue, making it unlikely that further funding or support will be approved. If no additional registrations are received, the program will conclude as scheduled on 30 September. Council strongly encourages any landholders requiring assistance to register as soon as possible to ensure their property can be assessed and scheduled for clean-up, and to help demonstrate the need for the program to continue.

Eligibility and how to apply

Landholders with flood-related debris in cane paddocks may qualify for clean-up assistance. To apply:
• Call Council on 4776 4600 to lodge a customer request;
• Provide your name, contact details, property information, and a photo of the flood debris located in the paddock; and
• Debris may be moved aside and out of the paddock to allow harvesting and other husbandry practices to continue once the photo has been taken.

This service is jointly funded by Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) to support Queensland communities in their recovery from the North and Far North Tropical Low Commencing 29 January 2025 event.

When it comes to fencing, durability and style should go hand in hand. LYSAGHT has built its reputation on delivering premium fencing solutions that withstand Australia’s toughest conditions, while still offering easy installation and a sleek design. Made from genuine COLORBOND steel and backed by BlueScope warranties, LYSAGHT fencing provides security, privacy, and aesthetic appeal that lasts.

What truly sets LYSAGHT apart is its wide range of fencing profiles, designed to complement both modern and traditional landscapes. Four standout options demonstrate the brand’s versatility.

NEETASCREEN is a long-standing favourite, delivering strength, privacy, and a refined appearance. Crafted from COLORBOND steel, it blends seamlessly into residential or commercial properties, providing reliable security without compromising style.

SMARTASCREEN is fantastic for boundary fences that look just as good on both sides. SMARTASCREEN is the perfect neighbour-friendly choice. Its textured finish and crisp lines complement contemporary homes, while the durable steel construction ensures long-lasting performance.

MINISCREEN is great for those wanting a distinctive look. MINISCREEN combines the classic MINI ORB profile with COLORBOND steel. It creates a striking visual effect that adds character while still offering exceptional durability and minimal maintenance.

SLATSCREEN is the modern answer to stylish outdoor design. SLATSCREEN brings clean, horizontal lines that double as both fencing and screening. Perfect for those wanting a contemporary edge, it enhances privacy while making a bold architectural statement.

Whether the priority is security, aesthetics, or low-maintenance performance, LYSAGHT provides a fencing solution to suit every project. With proven quality, it’s easier than ever to get fencing done right. Order yours today from Mitre10 on 100 Herbert St, Ingham or one of our preferred installers, Bartolini Fencing 0400119947, Still More Fencing 0400214709, or KDM All sorts 0439371774.

In commemoration of Homelessness Week this August, the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre (HCSC) hosted several information sessions to provide community members with the opportunity to meet with housing support workers, seek information, and receive assistance with housing applications.

One of these sessions took place on Monday, 4 August, when HCSC Homelessness Support Workers hosted an information hub outside Woolworths Ingham. The pop-up allowed locals to ask questions, connect with staff, and receive help completing Department of Housing application forms. HCSC extends its thanks to Hinchinbrook Central for supporting this initiative and providing the space to host the event.

Homelessness continues to be a pressing issue across Australia. On census night in 2021, more than 122,000 Australians were recorded as experiencing homelessness. Recent reports indicate that an additional 10,000 people are becoming homeless each month, largely due to rising rental costs and housing shortages. Alarmingly, an increasing number of employed Australians are also turning to homelessness services for support.

HCSC Homelessness Support Workers are committed to ensuring that all community members experiencing, or at risk of, homelessness are assisted in applying for public housing, despite the long waiting times. These applications not only provide individuals with access to essential housing pathways but also help demonstrate to the government the urgent need for more social housing.

Initiatives such as the HUB’s pop-up are vital in raising awareness, delivering practical support, and offering hope to those doing it tough in our community.

If you need assistance with a Department of Housing Application or if you or someone you know is experiencing homelessness, please contact our homelessness workers at the HCSC HUB on 4776 1822.

Local Students Compete In Hydrogen Grand Prix World Final In Germany

Five talented students from Gilroy Santa Maria College in Ingham are trading the tropics for Germany as they compete in the Hydrogen Grand Prix (H2GP) World Final in Chemnitz. Known as the Gilroy Velocity Raptors, this Year 7–9 team earned global recognition after dominating the North Queensland Finals with a record-breaking 387 laps.

In their first year—and as the youngest team competing—they’ve turned a lunchtime STEM club into a world-class contender. Backed by strategy, resilience, and community pride, the Raptors are ready to showcase their hydrogen-powered innovation and prove that regional students can lead the charge in sustainable technology.

Gilroy Velocity Raptors Set For Global Stage In Germany

Five bright young minds from Gilroy Santa Maria College in Ingham are preparing to swap the tropics for the autobahn as they gear up for the Hydrogen Grand Prix (H2GP) World Final in Chemnitz, Germany this week.

The Gilroy Velocity Raptors, a team of Year 7 to 9 students, secured their place on the world stage after a commanding win at the H2GP North Queensland Finals. Their hydrogen-powered remote-controlled vehicle completed 387 laps in four hours, claiming the top award for endurance, energy efficiency, and design.

Remarkably, this is the Raptors’ first year in the competition, and they are the youngest team to qualify for the World Final. While many schools integrate H2GP into their science curriculum and compete annually, the Raptors began as a lunchtime STEM club—transforming a passion project into a world championship bid. Their success is even more impressive given the resources and experience of many rival teams.

To celebrate, the College brought the school community together for a special send-off event. The occasion showcased the winning vehicle, speeches from the team and teachers, and a tribute to the innovation and resilience that has driven the students’ success.

Team manager Owen, 14, said the team’s success was built on strategy and teamwork.

“We’ve spent months refining our strategy and testing every detail of the car. To now take that work to an international stage is incredible, we’re ready to show what regional students can do.”

Nate, 13, added, “We’ve faced breakdowns, battery issues, and hours of preparation during lunch breaks and before and after school, but every challenge has made us stronger. Competing in Germany is a dream come true.”

Principal Melissa Carr said, “This send-off is a celebration of grit, intelligence, and community spirit. These students are not just representing Gilroy, they’re representing the future of sustainable innovation.”

The H2GP World Final will bring together teams from across the globe, for the Gilroy Velocity Raptors, it’s not only a chance to compete at the highest level but also to inspire other regional students to dream big and embrace innovation.

Find the social pics here: https://tinyurl.com/24thas5a

Hiya Hinchinbrookshire!

The other day, I had the chance to join the Meals on Wheels delivery run with a couple of friendly faces from NAB, Jess Castellani and Teresa Nieminen. What struck me straight away was how much heart goes into something as simple as delivering a meal. It’s not just about dropping off a meal, it’s about having a quick yarn, checking in and sharing a smile.

Jess put it beautifully when she said, “Meals on Wheels is more than a meal, it’s a moment of connection. Sometimes we might be the only people a client sees that day, and that little visit can really brighten things up.”

Teresa also told me, “Volunteering reminds us how important it is to slow down and look out for one another. It only takes an hour or two, but it makes such a big difference.”

I wholeheartedly agree with them. It’s a reminder of how much these small connections matter and how they keep people feeling part of the community.

NAB has supported Meals on Wheels for years, with staff taking turns to help out. It only takes an hour or two a month, but the impact is so much bigger than that.

Personally, I walked away from the day feeling grateful, not just for the chance to help, but for the warm welcomes at each stop. To everyone we visited, I hope you enjoyed your meals (and the paper!).

If you’ve got a little time to spare during the week, whether you’re a business, retiree or just someone who likes lending a hand, Meals on Wheels would love to hear from you. It’s a small effort that makes a world of difference.

Victoria

All around the Shire, and Australia, Vietnam Veterans' Day was commemorated in remembrance of the Battle of Long Tan and other Australian operations in the Vietnam War.

“Vietnam Veterans Day holds profound importance in Australia's national consciousness. It is not merely a day etched into the calendar, but a moment of collective reflection, a time to pay tribute to those who served to acknowledge the complexity of their experiences and to ensure their sacrifices are never forgotten.”

“The story of the Vietnam veteran is one of resilience. It is a tale of men and women who adapted to an unfamiliar and unforgiving environment, who endured the heartbreak of loss and the burden of survival, and who returned home not to parade but to silence and misunderstanding.”

“Among the 60,000 Australians who served, over 500 brave souls paid the ultimate price, their names forever etched in the annals of history and the hearts of their loved ones.”

“One of the enduring legacies of the Vietnam War is the bond forged among those who served, transcending rank or role, a beacon of solidarity for all who wear the Australian uniform.”

“While commemoration is vital, action is equally imperative. We must continue to advocate for our veterans, ensuring they receive the support, recognition and services they deserve.” - Rodger Bow, President of the Ingham RSL

Police are continuing to appeal for public assistance to help locate dashcam footage of a silver Toyota Hilux involved in an armed robbery in Cardwell on Saturday, the 26th of July.

Motorists who travelled on the Bruce Highway through Cardwell between 5pm and 6pm, or through Euramo between 5.30pm and 6.30pm, are urged to check their dashcam recordings.

Anyone with relevant footage or information is encouraged to contact Policelink via the online suspicious activity form at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or by calling 131 444.

Information can also be provided anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au. Please quote reference number QP2501312384.

Hinchinbrook, I’m very excited to announce that on Saturday, the 6th of September, at the Ingham Sugar City Rodeo, I’ll again be pulling on the boots for the Charity Bull Ride. This time, I will be going head-to-head against a former North Queensland Cowboys player, with Ingham Palliative Care being the beneficiary of this year’s bucking bull madness.

After putting a quick phone call through to Cowboys CFO, Michael Luck, to round us up a worthy rider to challenge me in this year’s Charity Ride, it didn’t take long for legendary NRL Cowboys Team Manager, Glenn Hall, to put his hand up for the cause.

Glenn is a former North Queensland Cowboys forward who retired at the end of the 2015 season. With a stellar career spanning over 14 years, he played a grand total of 98 games for the Cowboys in his final five seasons. This retired football player has never sat on a bull, let alone ridden one, but has professed that this has been on his bucket list for a very long time.

Due to wet weather, last year’s Ingham rodeo was cancelled, and after the 2023 event, I thought that may have been the end of my short but eventful bull riding career. However, after seeing first-hand and experiencing the compassionate work performed by the Ingham Palliative Care unit during the passing of my Nonna (Grandmother) last year, I felt compelled to do what I could to raise much-needed funds to help support their cause.

Ingham Palliative Care provides compassionate, end-of-life care and support to patients and families during one of life’s most difficult moments. This fundraising event aims to help them purchase essential equipment to allow them to continue their incredible work.

This year, our fundraising goal is $10,000 and with the help of Glenn Hall and his supporters, I believe this is a very achievable target that will directly benefit our community. To donate to the 2025 Charity Bull Ride and help raise funds for Ingham Palliative Care, please visit our GoFundMe page at https://gofund.me/6dcfe141 We will also be shaking the tin at this year’s event if you’d prefer to donate in cash.

Corporate and local business sponsorship is welcome and will be given shout-outs on social media in the lead-up, as well as call-outs on the night. I look forward to seeing you all at the Ingham Sugar City Rodeo next month!

Contributed with thanks by Nick Dametto MP, Member for Hinchinbrook

The Lions Club of Ingham is once again proud to present the annual Ingham Sportstar Awards, celebrating the outstanding sporting achievements and contributions of local athletes, teams, and volunteers. Nominations are now open, and the Club is calling on the community to help shine a spotlight on Hinchinbrook’s sporting heroes.

The awards recognise achievements from 1st September 2024 through to the nomination closing date, and all nominees must be Hinchinbrook residents or represent a local sporting club. Categories include Junior and Senior Sportstar of the Year, Para-Athlete of the Year, Masters of Sport Award, Team of the Year, and a special Recognition of Contribution to Ingham Sport.

This is a unique opportunity to acknowledge not just elite performance, but also the dedication, sportsmanship, and community spirit that define Hinchinbrook’s vibrant sporting scene.

Nomination forms can be obtained by emailing inghamlionssportstarawards@gmail.com or contacting Sharon on 0402 902 887. Don’t delay—nominations close on 25th August 2025.

Winners will be honoured at a special awards evening hosted at the RSL Ingham on Tuesday, 2nd September 2025. It promises to be a night of celebration and pride as the community comes together to recognise those who have made a mark on local sport over the past year.

Whether it's a rising junior, a seasoned master, a dedicated volunteer, or an inspirational team, now is the time to nominate and celebrate Hinchinbrook’s sporting excellence.

Born and raised in the Burdekin, Meagan Morris from MortgageWorks brings over 20 years of experience in banking and lending. She understands what makes North Queensland tick and how that affects local lending. With clients across Australia, her focus remains on helping the north navigate complex finance needs with clarity and care.

“Finance isn’t one-size-fits-all,” Meagan said.

“My job is to help clients fine tune their financial strategy in a way that suits them.

“I work closely with accountants, solicitors and financial planners across all states and this network helps me ensure that the clients receive neutral information.”

A large proportion of the northern population work in seasonal industries, with around 50–60% as PAYG employees and 30–40% self-employed, often in trades or small businesses.

Meagan works across four key areas: property finance, refinancing, first home buying, and lending for renovations or refurbishments.

Properties like kit homes, stump houses or those in cyclone-prone areas often fall outside preferred lender postcodes. Meagan matches clients with lenders who understand local risks and property types.

For first home buyers, she offers guidance on state grants and family guarantee strategies. Meagan also helps young people enter the market without paying lenders mortgage insurance.

Refinancing is often overlooked. Meagan explained that clients may be on the wrong structure or have had changes to their circumstances, and that refinancing can be a perfect reset. “I recently helped a client consolidate six loans into three, saving them over $300,000 in potential interest,” she said.

Renovation lending is also growing. “More people are choosing to upgrade their existing home rather than move. That might mean funding for extensions, kitchens or structural changes, each with different lending requirements.”

Councillor Andrew Carr

Hello Hinchinbrook,

I thought I would mention that Works for Queensland (W4Q) is a non-competitive, allocation-based funding program that supports regional councils to undertake job-creating maintenance and minor infrastructure projects.

The 2024–2027 W4Q budget totals $300 million, to be delivered over three financial years.

The 2024–2027 W4Q aims to provide funding to non-SEQ councils to deliver infrastructure, planning, maintenance, and capability development projects.

These projects enable councils to further drive local employment opportunities, support essential services, contribute to community economic development, and improve their long-term sustainability. They create and sustain jobs while fostering liveable communities where Queenslanders want to live, work, and play.

Proposed projects focus on supporting councils to manage their long-term sustainability and must demonstrate alignment with their long-term and strategic planning.

Hinchinbrook Shire’s 2024–2027 W4Q project funding allocation of $3.23 million has been endorsed by the Queensland Government and must be completed by 30 June 2027.

Also, another reminder — to request a service, make an enquiry, or report an issue, please use the web forms under Customer Service on Council’s website www.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au or phone 4776 4600.

Once again, it is great to be able to pick up a copy of Hinchinbrook Life and read through what has been and what will be happening throughout our Shire.

Thank you for the opportunity once again.