Queenslanders Urged To Stick To Science As Melanoma Rates Remain Highest Worldwide Health experts are urging Queenslanders to rely on proven medical advice, not social media myths, when it comes to sun safety, as the state continues to record the highest melanoma rates in the world. Dermatologist Associate Professor Erin McMeniman, from Princess Alexandra Hospital and the University of Queensland’s School of Medicine, says misinformation about sunscreen is spreading online at an alarming rate. “Particularly in Queensland, most people receive enough sun exposure to produce vitamin D simply through their daily incidental activities, such as hanging out the washing or checking the letterbox,” she said. She warns that unprotected sun exposure remains the leading cause of melanoma and other skin cancers, with 4,085 Queenslanders diagnosed in 2021 and 385 losing their lives. “Skin damage can occur after 10 minutes exposure when the UV index is at 3 or above. In Queensland, the UV index is 3 or above all year round, even in winter,” she said. In recent weeks, UV levels have reached 14 and 15, classified as “extreme”, further emphasising the need for regular sun protection. Despite these well-established risks, a range of myths persist online, including claims that sunscreen causes cancer, that tans prevent sunburn, or that darker-skinned people cannot get skin cancer. Assoc Prof McMeniman says these claims are not only false, but dangerous. “Unprotected sun exposure has been proven to cause cancer.” She adds that sunscreen found in make-up is rarely strong enough to provide real protection. “You need SPF30 or higher rating to be protected against sun exposure,” she said. “If it’s not SPF30 or above, you should be wearing additional sunscreen under your makeup when you’re in the sun for an extended period.” Assoc Prof McMeniman says one of the biggest concerns is the rising number of Queensland children experiencing sunburn, with nearly half reporting at least one burn in the past year. “Sunburn in childhood, frequent sunburn and sunburn that blisters the skin all increase a person’s susceptibility to UV-related cancers,” she said. Adults over 60 remain the most at-risk group due to limited sun safety education when they were young. However, she says younger generations are benefiting from decades of awareness campaigns, with melanoma rates now slightly declining in those under 40. As Queensland heads into another Summer of intense UV levels, the message from experts remains clear: slip, slop, slap and slide, every day.
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There’s nothing quite like the taste of homegrown bushtucker. Bringing native Australian plants into your garden is a delicious way to connect with the land and enjoy fresh, seasonal flavours straight from your backyard. Here are four native plants that are easy to grow and a joy to harvest. Riberry Riberry, also known as lilly pilly, is a versatile shrub or small tree that brightens the garden with its glossy foliage and colourful fruit. The berries have a unique, spicy flavour with hints of clove and cinnamon, making them ideal for jams, sauces, or desserts. It's a magnet for birds and pollinators, so while you’re enjoying the fruits, your garden is also supporting local wildlife. Kangaroo Apple Kangaroo apple is a striking shrub that offers a distinct visual interest to the garden, with vibrant purple flowers and sweet, tangy fruit. The berries are delicious when fully ripe and can be enjoyed fresh or in creative dishes such as salads or preserves. Lemon Myrtle Lemon myrtle is a fragrant, evergreen plant prized for its intensely citrus-scented leaves. Perfect for teas, marinades, desserts, or sauces, this rainforest native is both ornamental and highly functional. It can be pruned to a manageable size, making it suitable for gardens of any scale. Lemon myrtle’s year-round leaves and aromatic qualities make it a must-have for any bush-tucker garden. Midyim Berry The midyim berry, or midgen berry, is a low-growing shrub with sweet, tangy berries that resemble blueberries. Its copper-toned new growth adds aesthetic charm, and the fruit is perfect for jams, sauces, or simply eating fresh. It also supports pollinators and provides food for native wildlife, making it an excellent choice for gardeners who want to cultivate a productive and ecologically friendly space. Why Grow Bushtucker? Native edible plants are naturally adapted to Australian soils and climates, often requiring less water and maintenance than exotic alternatives. They support biodiversity, offering food and habitat for birds, insects, and other wildlife. And, of course, they taste incredible, fresh, unique, and full of nutrients. A true taste of Australian bush bliss.
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Rachel Cauchis' Newest Optometrist Joining the team around the start of May, the practice’s newest optometrist has quickly settled into his role and has now been here for around seven months. When asked how he is finding it, he laughed, saying how much he enjoyed the office culture, showing he has meshed well with the other optometrists and enjoys the light-hearted environment of the workplace. Originally from Sydney, he studied optometry at the University of New South Wales. His move north came after a rural placement where he was encouraged to get in touch. After a phone call with Travis Cauchi the practice manager and co-owner, he decided to take a chance, packed everything up and thought, “Why not give it a go?” In practice, one of his favourite pieces of equipment is the slit lamp, which gives a magnified 3D view of the interior structures of the eye and allows him to closely examine eye anatomy and detect potential eye disease. He has a strong interest in picking up and managing eye disease, particularly in a regional setting where access to specialist care can be limited. He enjoys working closely with visiting ophthalmologists and doing his best to manage patients locally when travel is difficult. He sees professional development as something that happens every day, learning through experience and exposure to a wide variety of cases. While most of his patients are elderly, they are also his favourites. He enjoys their life stories, their humour and the genuine appreciation they show, which he finds incredibly rewarding. Outside of work, he enjoys exploring local waterfalls, travelling to Cairns and Townsville, and playing basketball with the local community. He is rarely without his film camera and considers himself more of a beach person, happy to sit by the water for hours.
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The Queensland Government has delivered its first major update to crocodile management in almost a decade. The new plan prioritises community safety, with increased patrols and an expansion of removal zones. It represents a commonsense approach to crocodile management. The Government’s Queensland Crocodile Management Plan puts human safety first and was developed with feedback from communities in North and Far North Queensland, including Ingham. The plan will implement increased crocodile management measures, including more patrols in high-risk areas and expanded removal zones. This evidence-based strategy demonstrates the Government’s commitment to listening to local communities and has been shaped by expert recommendations and extensive scientific research. Key changes for Ingham: Tyto Wetlands in Ingham to be upgraded to an Active Removal Zone, with the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service to undertake proactive patrols of this area and any crocodile found to be removed. Regional communities will continue to be consulted on the plan, with a designated four-week annual consultation period and updates made on a rolling basis. A mandatory review will be conducted every five years to ensure the plan continues to reflect the needs of the communities it impacts. The Government will also continue to remove crocodiles from the wild that pose a threat to public safety. Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa said the people of his electorate voted for change, and he was proud to deliver it in his first week as local Member. “Hinchinbrook now has a seat at the government table and work has already begun to deliver the fresh start we promised – starting with a new crocodile management plan that puts the safety of people first in Ingham,” Mr Chiesa said. “Upgrading Tyto Wetlands to an Active Removal Zone is the commonsense approach that’s needed and has been lacking for far too long under the former Government.” Mayor of Hinchinbrook regional council, Ramon Jayo, said it was a practical step to protect the area but to remain Crocwise. "TYTO Wetlands and the surrounding precinct remain one of our most popular destinations. While crocodiles are a natural part of life in North Queensland, proactive management is essential to keep visitors safe. Recent changes by the Queensland Government will allow for increased patrols and the targeted removal of crocodiles that pose a risk to the community. Crocodiles are part of our environment, so staying Crocwise is about using common sense—be alert near waterways, keep your distance, and never take chances."
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The Halifax Emergency Liaison Partnership (HELP) has recognised the tireless efforts of the Queensland Country Women�E��E�E���E��Es Association (QCWA) Halifax Branch, donating $1000 to support their ongoing community work. The cheque was presented on 12 September by HELP representatives Natalie Hulett and Rita Ferrari, alongside Sargent Gio Tantalo, during a heartfelt visit to the Halifax CWA Hall.
�E��E�E���E��EOur members work tirelessly each week to support our community through twice-weekly morning teas and donations to people needing a hand. It is such a pleasure to be associated with such a fine mob,�E��E�E���E��E she said.
The $1000 contribution will help ensure the Halifax CWA can continue offering their essential support and uplifting community spirit well into the future.
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Hiya Hinchinbrookshire!
I had to nip down to Airlie Beach last Friday to say farewell to two of the company's lovliest ladies. Taking a Sundowner cruise felt symbolic as the sun set on their final days with Life Publishing. Mackay and Whitsunday Life newspaper's will definitely miss you both, and we all wish you well on your next steps and new journeys, Crissy and Amanda!
Locally, I attended the Orchid and Foliage show at Conroy Hall, and I must say, we have some extremely talented green thumbs in Hinchinbrook. I thoroughly enjoyed learning about the hybridisation of bromeliads and the planting and nurturing techniques of African violets. The tropical foliage displays were so lush and the orchids were breathtaking. With so many kinds of plants on display and for sale, it was so hard to pick a favourite. You had to stop every few steps to admire something new.
On another note, I'm still on the lookout for sponsors to support me as a Maraka Queen entrant. If you're interested in being a sponsor, please reach out. Shout-out to Ingham Agencies, Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Tourism Information, and Solar Hair for their support.
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Fun Fact: Orchids are found naturally growing on all continents but Antarctica. The Orchidaceae family has been confirmed to have existed as far back as the Late Cretaceous period from an amber fossil dated 56 million years ago, with genetic sequencing indicating their overall biogeography and phylogenetic patterns trace back roughly 100 million years. This means that even dinosaurs could stop and smell the orchids.
On 17 September, Hinchinbrook welcomed four new citizens in a heartfelt ceremony. After a welcome message, they were sworn in, the national anthem was sung, and little aussie flags were waved as four ladies officially became Australian citizens. Many had already called the region home for over a decade, with some living locally for up to 12 years.
Mayor Ramon Jayo led the proceedings and warmly shared, "It's always good to welcome new citizens to Australia. These people have been in Hinchinbrook for quite a substantial period of time and they've contributed to our community through their work."
He continued, "It's good that we recognise their contribution by granting them Australian citizenship and it's wonderful to finally see it happen for their families."
The ceremony not only marked a milestone in the lives of the new citizens but also highlighted the strength of Hinchinbrook�E��E�E���E��Es diverse community, now with new additions in Katie Butler (England), Denise Sartor (Germany), and Maria Flett and Miguelita McKeough (Philippines). With their commitment and long-standing ties to the region, the newest Australians were warmly celebrated as part of the Hinchinbrook family.
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Selectability is celebrating after their Ingham team was named a finalist in the Workplace �E��E�E���E��E Community Wellbeing category of the 2025 Queensland Mental Health Achievement Awards.
Essential programs such as the Ingham Clubhouse continued, giving recipients structure, connection and confidence during a time of uncertainty. The team also distributed close to 50 food and hygiene packs with the support of local businesses.
�E��E�E���E��ERecipients were very excited to receive supplies!�E��E�E���E��E the team shared, as their efforts extended well beyond immediate recovery, creating safe, inclusive spaces where recipients could stay engaged and supported.
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Ingham Meals on Wheels has been named the recipient of the prestigious Rhoda Cameron Award 2025, recognising the branch as the best in Queensland. The award honours Member Services that demonstrate the values of Rhoda Cameron, the founder of Meals on Wheels�E��E�E��E�E�� in Queensland.
Ms Phillips paid tribute to the branch�E��E�E���E��Es team, saying "ve a very special team, the Management Committee, Paid Staff and super-caring Volunteers who go above and beyond their call of duty for the vulnerable residents of this district."
"Ingham Meals on Wheels is for our Community and was built by the Community, and we appreciate very much the generosity given by everyone from this Community and also outside the Ingham District. The Herbert Valley Community is a place to be really proud to be part of."
Ingham Meals on Wheels is always looking for extra volunteers to help with delivering meals. If you can assist, please call the office and support this vital service.
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Ingham�E��E�E���E��Es brand-new electric vehicle charging station is already proving its worth, with one of its very first users, Bradley, a retired tradie turned traveller, sharing his excitement about the addition.
Mayor Ramon Jayo, who was on hand to mark the milestone, reflected on the journey to get the project completed, "We�E��E�E���E��Ere really pleased to see this finally in place, after three to four years in the making. One of the main challenges was finding a relatively flood-free and accessible site that met the company�E��E�E���E��Es requirements. It�E��E�E���E��Es very pleasing to see it up and running, because this (electric vehicles) is where people are heading.
With the charging station now live, Ingham is set to welcome more travellers, boost the local economy, and showcase the beauty of the district to a new wave of visitors. The charging station is located in the car park behind Ingham's Westpac bank, accessable via Hawkins or Euclid St.
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Singapore Airlines has ushered in a new era of comfort and connectivity for Far North Queensland with its upgraded Cairns�E��ESingapore service, operating four times weekly on the state-of-the-art Airbus A350-900.
But the real game-changer lies in the connections. Flights are timed to integrate smoothly with Singapore Airlines�E��E extensive global network, unlocking effortless onward travel to the UK, Europe, and Southeast Asia.
Planning a getaway to Europe, the UK or beyond? Fly direct from Cairns with Singapore Airlines - and take advantage of their Early Bird Sales, available until 30 September 2025.
Did you know that the Cairns Airport is having a $55 million International Terminal Upgrade?
Cairns Airport is undergoing a $55 million transformation of its international terminal - the first major upgrade in over 30 years. The redevelopment, set for completion by the end of 2025, includes a refurbished terminal, including remodelled bathrooms, new seating, all-new baggage reclaim belts and four air-conditioned glass airbridges.
Guests departing from the international terminal can now also take advantage of a newly opened airport lounge experience. Operated by Escape Lounges, the stylish space offers premium facilities and complimentary dining in comfort.
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When people look back at the flying fox story in Ingham, they often remember the heatwaves. The flying foxes dropping from the trees, the overwhelming smell, and the struggles families faced living, schooling, and working with colonies that grew to hundreds of thousands.
But what�E��E�E���E��Es sometimes overlooked is the extraordinary science, strategy, and teamwork that turned things around. Back in 2019, our community was in crisis. Half a million flying foxes spilled out of the Botanical Gardens and into our parks and schoolyards. The usual tricks �E��E�E���E��E pots, pans, and pool noodles �E��E�E���E��E didn�E��E�E���E��Et make much of a difference, just sending the animals from one backyard to the next.
It was noisy, smoky, and relentless work �E��E�E���E��E more like mustering cattle than managing wildlife �E��E�E���E��E but it worked. And none of this would have been possible without the unsung heroes of the whole effort: our dedicated staff.
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With the cane harvest season now passed the halfway mark and the traditional southern state tourist season moving toward its latter weeks as the temperature starts to warm up, it is timely to reflect on how far our community has progressed since the impactful weather event in February this year.
The harvest figures to date have revealed a more positive trend, which has seen the current crop estimate increase throughout the district. The recent announcement by the Federal Government of a $1.1 billion biofuels program has created much excitement for the future of value-adding opportunities for the sugar industry.
Recorded local visitor numbers to date have seen very encouraging increases and positive upward trends, with hospitality and retail businesses reporting strong visitor spending in the district. The appointment of an experienced international hike operator to conduct tours on Hinchinbrook Island, planned to commence in the first half of 2026, is a long-awaited and exciting tourism opportunity for the Shire and region.
This year has also seen several additional new tourism products enter the local market, which has further increased visitor spending in the Shire. The development of products that support the visitor experience and showcase Hinchinbrook Shire to the world has been many years in the making, and it is exceptionally pleasing to now witness these new opportunities being delivered.
The launch on Friday by Townsville Enterprise of the largest-ever tourism marketing campaign for North Queensland will provide the opportunity for the Hinchinbrook Shire to be showcased on the state, national, and international stage, providing more opportunities for tourism growth in our Shire.
Despite the incredibly challenging start to 2025, which many residents continue to navigate, these positive developments in the sugar and tourism industries should provide confidence that some exciting opportunities are on the horizon.
Macknade Mill has completed its largest capital program in a decade, with a new high-grade fugal station already delivering positive results halfway through the 2025 sugar production season.
The $10.76 million project saw the installation of seven Silver Seibull 1250E fugals during the maintenance season, along with new supporting structures, civil works, services, and switch rooms.
Wilmar Sugar and Renewables Senior Project Engineer Joseph Bonassi said the project was about more than just new equipment.
�E��E�E���E��ELocal drainage and access systems were also improved as a portion of the scope of the project, with the aim of improving upon safety culture and factory performance,�E��E�E���E��E he said.
�E��E�E���E��EThe quality of work was outstanding, reflecting the care and pride our people put into every detail. This achievement speaks volumes about the dedication and skill of our people,�E��E�E���E��E he said.
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The resilience, beauty, and spirit of rural Australia have been captured in the winning entries of Rural Aid�E��Es sixth annual Spirit of the Bush Photography Competition.
�E��EThis year�E��Es photos are a moving tribute to life outside the city limits. They tell stories of perseverance, pride and connection,�E��E Mr Warlters said.
Since 2015, Rural Aid has provided vital support to farmers and rural communities, from hay and drinking water to mental health counselling and community-building initiatives. Now celebrating its 10th year, the charity continues to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with rural Australians, ensuring their stories �E��E and their resilience �E��E are never forgotten.
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Ingham State High School is delighted to announce that School Captain, Amayah Hague, has been awarded the prestigious Order of Australia Association�E��E�E���E��Es Secondary Schools�E��E�E���E��E Citizenship Award for 2025 �E��E�E���E��E a distinguished honour that recognises exemplary young Australians who demonstrate outstanding leadership, citizenship, and service to their communities.
The entire Ingham State High School community joins in congratulating Amayah on this extraordinary accomplishment. Her success stands as a proud reminder of the positive impact that young people can have �E��E�E���E��E and reflects the values and spirit that define Ingham State High School.
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Established in 1953 to serve the children of cane-farming families west of Ingham, Abergowrie State School has a long tradition of nurturing students in a caring, supportive environment. Over the decades, it has grown into a close-knit hub where families, staff, and students work together to create a positive and welcoming learning community.
Today, student wellbeing remains a priority at Abergowrie. From Early Childhood through to Year 6, teachers take the time to know each child, understand their learning needs, and provide tailored support to help them reach their goals. Classrooms are calm and focused, offering hands-on learning opportunities that build strong foundations in literacy and numeracy while encouraging curiosity and creativity.
Alongside academic learning, students are supported to develop respect, resilience, and responsibility. Community involvement plays an important role, with families regularly invited to school events and celebrations that strengthen the connection between home and school. This partnership helps students see learning as a shared journey and builds pride in their achievements.
Abergowrie�E��Es personalised learning environment meets each student where they are, guiding them on a journey of growth that extends beyond curriculum outcomes. By addressing the whole child, the school prepares students to thrive as balanced, confident lifelong learners who contribute meaningfully to their communities.
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On 4 September, Gilroy Santa Maria College�E��Es Year 12 Emerging Leaders were honoured at the Blak Excellence Lunch, a powerful celebration of First Nations excellence, leadership, and contribution to education. This special event, organised by Townsville Catholic Education, recognised the strength, resilience, and brilliance of these students as they continue to shape a future grounded in culture, community, and country.
The College community commends these students for their dedication and achievements, acknowledging the positive example they set for their peers. Their journey reflects a commitment to education and cultural identity, inspiring younger students to follow in their footsteps with confidence and pride.
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Choosing the right beginning for your child�E��E�E���E��Es education is an important step, and families are warmly invited to get to know St Peter�E��E�E���E��Es Catholic School, Halifax. Nestled in the heart of the community, St Peter�E��E�E���E��Es offers a caring, faith-filled environment where every child is supported to grow academically, socially, and spiritually.
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