Join Regional Development Australia Townsville and North West Queensland (RDA TNWQ), Regional Economic Advisory (REA) for a free community insights session hosted by the Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Tourism.

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Hear from guest speakers Dr Lisa McDonald, Chief Executive Officer, RDA TNWQ, Matthew Kelly, Principal Economist, REA, and Emma Dobbins, Project Manager, JTNQ, as they share the latest economic, workforce and investment insights shaping the Hinchinbrook region.

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The session includes a panel discussion with regional leaders, providing the opportunity to ask questions, discuss local economic trends and regional activity, and connect with fellow business, industry, government and community representatives over light refreshments and networking. This is a free event, registration is required at https://tinyurl.com/2y2lcne2 or by searching ‘2026 State of the Region Roadshow - Hinchinbrook Insights Session’ on eventbrite.

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WHAT: State Of The Region Roadshow Insights Session
WHEN: Tuesday, 21 July 2026, 5:00pm
WHERE: The Powerhouse, Ingham

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While the overall threatened status of the Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo is listed as “Least Concern” in the EPBC act, the South-eastern Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo is listed as ‘Endangered’ and the ‘Forest Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo’ of WA is listed as ‘Vulnerable’. A Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo feeding at Forrest Beach. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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Australia’s unique birdlife is facing a new challenge after the Federal Government confirmed the detection of H5N1 avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, in a migratory Brown Skua found in south-west Western Australia. The detection marks the first confirmed arrival of this strain in Australia.

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While the virus has not yet been detected in Queensland, local wildlife groups and authorities are reminding residents and visitors to be aware of the signs of illness in birds and avoid contact with sick or deceased wildlife.

Across the world, H5N1 has caused significant impacts, with millions of wild birds and tens of thousands of mammals affected. Australia is home to some of the world’s most distinctive bird species, many of which rely on healthy ecosystems to survive. Around one in six Australian bird species is already considered threatened with extinction, highlighting the importance of protecting habitats and supporting wildlife resilience.

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Residents are reminded not to handle sick or dead birds or wildlife. If you spot affected animals, record what you observe where safe to do so, including the species, location, date, time and number of animals affected. Do not touch or collect the birds, report it.

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Sightings of sick or deceased wildlife can be reported to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

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Human infections from avian influenza remain rare in Australia. Overseas cases have generally occurred following close contact with infected birds, animals or contaminated environments. People who develop flu-like symptoms after handling birds or wildlife should seek medical advice.

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Anyone who works with or is regularly in close contact with birds is encouraged to stay up to date with their influenza vaccination. While the seasonal flu vaccine does not protect against bird flu, it does help reduce the risk of becoming unwell with both viruses at the same time.

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For more information, please visit the Australian Centre for Disease Control website.

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(Information provided with thanks by the Hinchinbrook Local Disaster Management Group & BirdLife Australia)

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Hello Hinchinbrook, the Disaster Ready Fund (DRF) is the Australian Government’s flagship initiative for disaster resilience and risk reduction.

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The Australian Government is providing up to one billion dollars through the DRF. The funding runs over five years from 1^st July 2023.

Disaster Ready Fund Round Four 2026–27 application proposals closed on 1^st July 2026.

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The funding supports projects that address the physical and social impacts of disasters on our communities, including disasters caused by climate change and other natural hazards.

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In addition to the Australian Government assessment criteria, Queensland will prioritise projects that demonstrate the following priorities:

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• How strongly the project contributes to addressing local and regional disaster risk priorities and demonstrates that the proposed risk mitigation measure is a priority for the local or regional community. This includes projects that:

    -   are included in Council’s endorsed Local Resilience Action Plans (LRAPs);

    -  are included in other local disaster risk management plans or strategies; and

    -  address identified needs and risks identified in the 2023 State Disaster Risk Report or local risk assessments.

• How effectively the project aligns with relevant Queensland disaster and resilience strategies and plans.

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The Queensland Reconstruction Authority (QRA) is the lead agency for Queensland, responsible for coordinating DRF proposals and submitting applications to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) on behalf of the State.

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QRA undertakes an indicative assessment to identify projects for NEMA to assess. Ultimately, NEMA makes the final decision. QRA is an impartial entity in this process and, to ensure fairness and equality are applied across the applicant base, cannot support individual applicants in developing the content of their application.

This information session is the primary source of information for all applicants. Incomplete applications will not be assessed. If a proposed project does not align with the Guidelines and the eligibility criteria detailed within them, it will not be assessed.

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Queensland can only send 30 applications to NEMA for Round 4. Ministerial and Premier endorsement will be sought for the final 30 applications before they are sent to NEMA for consideration.

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The DRF is extremely competitive. For example, in Round 3, QRA received almost 200 applications. Of these, 62 were sent to NEMA for consideration and fewer than 18 were ultimately funded. Of the $200 million available across the entire country in Round 3, Queensland received $51.4 million.

Eligible applicants include River Improvement Trusts constituted under the River Improvement Trust Act 1940. Currently, the Herbert River Improvement Trust (HRIT) has more than 64 sites, at an estimated cost of approximately $8.6 million, that have been inspected and costed. Some of these projects have been put forward and, hopefully, will be successful in receiving funding.

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

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Phosphate Hill. Photo sourced: Incitec Pivot Fertilisers

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The future of fertiliser supplies for Herbert cane growers has received a major boost after the Federal and State governments announced a jointly funded $160 million loan package to secure the ongoing operation of the Phosphate Hill fertiliser facility.

The agreement follows the sale of Phosphate Hill to Mayfair and is expected to safeguard the nation's only domestic ammonium fertiliser producer while protecting hundreds of regional jobs.

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For Hinchinbrook, the announcement provides confidence that locally produced phosphate will continue supplying fertiliser blends used extensively across the district's cane farms.

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Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa welcomed the announcement.

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"This is what securing the future looks like. The Crisafulli Government's $160 million commitment to secure Phosphate Hill is fantastic news for North and North West Queensland.  

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“It shows the Government is backing our communities, protecting regional jobs and investing in industries that matter. Phosphate Hill produces around one million tonnes of fertiliser each year and is a critical part of Australia's sovereign manufacturing capability. This is about securing industry, supporting regional development and providing confidence for our future."

Hinchinbrook Shire Mayor Ramon Jayo, who is also a local cane farmer, said the continued operation of Phosphate Hill was vital for the district because of its reliance on phosphate fertiliser.

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"I am very pleased to see that Phosphate Hill will continue operating following considerable negotiations, as it plays an integral role in producing the phosphate component used in fertiliser blends that are applied extensively throughout our district due to the nature of our phosphate-deficient soils."

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Mayor Jayo said fertiliser produced from the facility formed a key part of the local agricultural supply chain.

"Phosphate product from Phosphate Hill, as well as being exported overseas, is blended with urea at the Port of Townsville to create fertiliser blends used by our farmers."

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He said retaining domestic production would help shield growers from volatile international markets.

"The fact that this product will continue to be sourced domestically, rather than imported from overseas, will help ensure costs to farmers remain lower and less volatile than what has been experienced with urea over recent years."

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"The ability to continue sourcing phosphate from our wider region rather than overseas is a good gain for our district, and we look forward to governments continuing to work with the industry to further drive prices down through the reduction of energy costs, particularly gas, for the benefit of our regional industries."

Mayor Jayo said the importance of domestic fertiliser production had become increasingly apparent following the closure of Australian urea manufacturing and recent global supply disruptions.

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"Many would remember that it was not that long ago that urea was produced in Brisbane until high energy costs led to those operations closing, forcing greater reliance on imports from overseas."

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"More recently, global supply pressures and conflicts in the Middle East have contributed to significant price increases."

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"Our country, let alone our region, needs to avoid this if farmers are to remain sustainable."

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He said local representatives had been advocating for the facility since uncertainty emerged around the future of the Mount Isa operations last year.

"When concerns about the future of the Mount Isa operations first emerged last year, I joined a North West Queensland delegation in Canberra to highlight the impacts any closure could have on regional communities, industry and agriculture."

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"One of the key issues raised was the importance of maintaining local fertiliser supply chains and protecting the industries that support them."

"This announcement not only secures an important facility for regional Queensland, it also provides greater certainty for farmers, local industry and the broader economy into the future."

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The joint government package will support the modernisation of the Phosphate Hill facility and provide assistance to manage rising sulphur costs, which have increased sharply due to conflict in the Middle East. The agreement is expected to secure more than 500 direct jobs at Phosphate Hill while also supporting the ongoing operation of the Mount Isa Copper Smelter and Townsville Refinery, which rely on the facility as part of North West Queensland's interconnected industrial network.

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Martha is a sweet little girl with a loving nature, full of purrs, head bumps and affection. Once she knows you, she absolutely adores her people and enjoys being close to them whenever she can.

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This lovely girl is also quite talkative and will happily answer when called by name, adding plenty of personality and charm to your home. At night, Martha loves nothing more than snuggling up beside her foster mum on the bed.

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Martha would thrive in a calm and peaceful home where she can feel secure and loved. She is also a grazer, preferring to nibble on her meals throughout the day.

Martha came into foster care with her special friend, Milah, and the two share a beautiful bond. They take comfort in each other's company, making them a wonderful pair. If Martha and Milah could find a forever home together, it would be truly extra special.

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ADOPTION FEE: $210 Martha's adoption fee includes desexing, microchipping, up-to-date vaccinations, and flea, tick and intestinal worm treatment.

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SEX: Female
BREED: Domestic Short Hair
COLOUR: Tuxedo
DOB: 25/09/2022
CAT FRIENDLY: Yes
DOG FRIENDLY: Unsure
KID FRIENDLY: Yes

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The Fresh start Academy team and their truck full of equipment. Photo sourced: Facebook

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A generous act of kindness has left more than a few people smiling, with the team from Fresh Start Academy travelling from Townsville to provide free haircuts for the Hinchinbrook community.

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Hosted by the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre, the pop-up event gave locals the opportunity to enjoy a free, fresh haircut.

The Centre thanked the Fresh Start Academy team for generously donating their time, skills and passion, as well as making the journey north to support the local community.

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Every haircut was tailored to individual requests, with the team ensuring each person left feeling comfortable, confident and cared for.

The Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre said the academy's kindness and dedication made a real difference to everyone who attended and expressed its appreciation for the team's willingness to invest in regional communities.

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Fresh Start Academy continues to make a positive impact through its community-focused work, and the Centre wished the organisation every success as it continues to grow.

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Sometimes the smallest gestures leave the greatest impact, and for those who received a fresh haircut, the visit was a welcome reminder of the generosity and goodwill.

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The Cassowary Coast Regional Council has adopted a $196.8 million budget for 2026-27, with a strong focus on flood resilience, infrastructure upgrades and town centre revitalisation while keeping rate increases in line with inflation.

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Mayor Teresa Millwood said the budget had been developed during a period of global economic uncertainty, with international events continuing to place pressure on households, businesses and councils alike.

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"This year's budget comes at a time of uncertainty, with the conflict in the Middle East impacting our economy," Mayor Millwood said.

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"Despite the challenges, we're committed to keeping costs down as much as possible – and we've looked very closely at how we can be more efficient and innovative."

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More than $80.6 million has been allocated to capital works across the region, including road and bridge upgrades, drainage improvements, footpaths and water infrastructure. The capital program includes about $38 million in external funding.

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Council will also spend $116 million delivering day-to-day services, including libraries, swimming pools, waste collection, emergency management, community grants, environmental programs and maintenance of public facilities and open spaces.

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Flood mitigation remains a major priority following a series of severe weather events in recent years.

"We've committed over $4 million in 2026-27 to deliver vital drainage upgrades across the Cassowary Coast," Mayor Millwood said.

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Projects include works in Cardwell, Mourilyan, Flying Fish Point, Mission Beach and Silkwood, while investigations will continue into drainage solutions for Mill Street in Mourilyan and Goondi Bend in Innisfail.

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More than $30 million has also been committed to maintaining and upgrading roads, bridges and pathways, including upgrades to Bowen Street, Jubilee Road, Scougal Road, Granadilla Road and Stephenson Road.

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Council has retained its rates discount for residents who pay on time, with owner-occupied general rates increasing by five per cent.

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"For the majority of owner-occupiers, this means the average general rate increase will be $90 per year – equal to $1.73 per week," Mayor Millwood said.

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Waste charges will rise by 5.5 per cent, which Council says reflects cost recovery only. For most households, this equates to an additional $37 a year, or about 71 cents a week. To help residents prepare for the wet season and clean up after storms, two free waste vouchers will be included annually with rate notices. Council has also allocated more than $8 million to maintain the region's water network, which includes 31 reservoirs, 13 pumping stations and more than 830 kilometres of water mains.

Mayor Millwood said maintaining ageing infrastructure remained one of Council's biggest responsibilities.

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"We've tried very hard to find ways to keep water charges down. However, we have inherited ageing infrastructure, and we must invest in its renewal," she said.

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The budget also continues investment in housing developments at Daradgee Estate and Eaton Estate, support for local businesses, environmental initiatives and community programs, while work on revitalising the Innisfail CBD will continue with more than $4 million earmarked for streetscape improvements, parking upgrades and pedestrian safety.

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"This budget is all about working towards our vision for the Cassowary Coast to be the most liveable tropical community," Mayor Millwood said.

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This snapshot covers specific Cassowary Coast 2026-2027 state budget announcements. Region-wide announcements can be found overleaf on Page 6 of Hinchinbrook Life, and a more expanded overview can be found at budget.qld.gov.au

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Specific Local Targets

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Innisfail Courthouse

Commencing remediation works at the Innisfail Courthouse ($1 million over one year).

Port Hinchinbrook Revitalisation

Delivering dredging and remediation works as part of the Port Hinchinbrook Revitalisation Project, to restore safe navigability, address longstanding environmental liabilities and enable activation of the Port Hinchinbrook Provisional Priority Development Area ($64 million over two years).

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Willow is a playful 12-week-old tuxedo kitten looking for her forever home through Cassowary Coast Paws & Claws. Photo source: Cassowary Coast Paws & Claws

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Playful, affectionate and full of curiosity, 12-week-old Willow is ready to find her forever family.

The adorable female tuxedo kitten is currently in the care of Cassowary Coast Paws & Claws Inc. and is looking for a loving home where she can continue to grow and thrive.

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Like any young kitten, Willow loves to explore her surroundings, chase toys and spend time playing with her feline friends. After a busy day of adventures, she's just as happy curling up in a cosy spot for a well-earned nap or enjoying plenty of cuddles.

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With her striking black-and-white tuxedo markings and sweet personality, Willow is sure to bring companionship and plenty of entertainment to her new family.

Willow's $200 adoption fee includes her first and second vaccinations, a veterinary health check, microchipping, up-to-date parasite prevention and desexing, which will be carried out when she reaches six months of age.

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If you think Willow could be the perfect addition to your family, contact Cassowary Coast Paws & Claws on 0428 807 461 to arrange a meet and greet, or visit the refuge during opening hours.

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A new $2 million Future Farms project will help banana, sugarcane and grazing properties across the Cassowary Coast improve resilience to extreme weather and strengthen soil health. Photo source: Shutterstock

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A new $2 million project will help future-proof farms across the Cassowary Coast by improving soil health, reducing erosion and strengthening resilience to extreme weather.

Terrain NRM will deliver the Queensland Government-funded Future Farms project, working with landholders from Innisfail to Kennedy to improve the long-term productivity and sustainability of banana, sugarcane and grazing properties.

Minister for Natural Resources, Mines, Manufacturing and Regional and Rural Development Dale Last said the investment would help landholders better prepare for future weather events.

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"Local landholders have been subject to extreme weather events in recent years, and this program will fund on-ground initiatives to improve farm resilience and soil and land conditions," Mr Last said.

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The project is being delivered in partnership with the Australian Banana Growers Council, Canegrowers Innisfail, the Cassowary Coast Graziers Association and local landholders.

Several farms will host demonstration sites showcasing practical land management techniques tailored to each agricultural sector.

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On sugarcane farms, the focus will include mixed-species fallow crops, improved drainage, laser levelling and soil amelioration. Grazing properties will trial pasture management practices, including legume planting, strategic paddock design and erosion control through revegetation and fencing.

Banana growers will demonstrate contouring techniques to reduce erosion on steep slopes, along with improved drainage design and streambank remediation to minimise sediment loss.

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Terrain NRM chief executive Stewart Christie said the project had been developed in response to years of severe weather that had taken a toll on the region's agricultural landscape.

"These events, following decades of land-use pressures, have extensively damaged the region’s agricultural landscapes, resulting in financial losses and long-term degradation of land and waterways," he said.

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"This area sits between two World Heritage-listed regions, the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics Rainforest, making it one of Queensland’s most ecologically significant and climate-exposed landscapes."

Mr Christie said agriculture remained central to the region's economy.

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"Agriculture contributes more than $630 million each year to the Cassowary Coast, with sugarcane, bananas and grazing forming the foundation of regional livelihoods," he said.

"This project is a way to support landholders through practical tools, knowledge and on-ground support to increase their resilience so they can continue producing now and into the future."

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Australian Banana Growers Council representative Amelia Foster said the project would help strengthen an industry already committed to best practice.

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"Working alongside experienced engineering consultants will also strengthen our Best Management Practice team's technical skills and increase industry capability to support practical, farm-based solutions into the future," she said.

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The Future Farms project is funded through the Queensland Government's $117.8 million Natural Resource Management Expansion Program, which is supporting projects aimed at improving environmental outcomes and strengthening regional resilience across the state.

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The new measures will help customers choose between imported seafood and fish caught right here in the Hinchinbrook region. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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From 1^st July 2026, mandatory Country of Origin Labelling (CoOL) laws will apply to seafood sold in hospitality venues across Australia, including restaurants, cafés, pubs, clubs, takeaways and food trucks. Menus and display boards will need to clearly identify whether seafood is Australian (A), Imported (I) or Mixed Origin (M) using the new AIM labelling system.

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These new laws are providing transparency to allow Australians to support local industry and make informed choices about quality, sustainability and freshness.

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Ensuring Accuracy and Compliance, businesses must ensure that any origin claims are supported by supply chain records such as invoices or supplier information. Incorrect or misleading origin claims can result in penalties under Australian Consumer Law. Complaints against incorrect labelling can be reported to the ACCC.  

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Read more about the new Country of Origin Labelling changes on Queensland Catch’s website.

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The 6.1m alloy boat under tow by the Snow Stafford. Photo supplied

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In the afternoon of Sunday 21^st June, the Lucinda Coast Guard received a call from two local fishermen aboard a 6.1m alloy boat off the southern end of Orpheus Island. The fishermen reported that they had spun a propeller off the spline, leaving them without any driveability.

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They requested a tow back to Dungeness, so a volunteer crew was organised and preparations began to launch the larger vessel, Snow Stafford.

Once again, the crew faced challenging tide conditions, with limited water over the sandbar, but they were able to safely make their way out. Around 40 minutes later, the distressed vessel was located, a tow was secured, and the journey back to shore began.

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After a rough trip out against a south-westerly wind and swell, the crew enjoyed a smoother return journey with the sea behind them. The vessel and its occupants were safely delivered back to the boat ramp.

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Lucinda Coast Guard reminds everyone to take care when heading out on the water and to ensure vessels are properly maintained before departing.

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Stay safe on the water.

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(Contributed with thanks by Steve Whipps, Commander Qf14 Lucinda Coast Guard)

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Sandra has been named a 2026 State Finalist for Pharmacy Assistant of the Year. Photo supplied

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Terry White Chemmart Ingham continues to provide trusted healthcare support to the local community, with the team dedicated to delivering accessible services and quality care.

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Pharmacists at Terry White Chemmart Ingham can now administer a wider range of vaccines, offering customers the convenience of walk-in appointments or scheduled bookings. This expanded service allows locals to access important vaccinations with the support of their local pharmacy team.

Eligible customers can also access free vaccinations through the National Immunisation Program (NIP), including free flu vaccines, pneumococcal vaccines for those aged over 65, and RSV vaccines for people aged over 75.

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The team’s commitment to care has also been recognised, with pharmacist Craig nominated for Queensland Pharmacist of the Year through the Pharmacy Guild of Australia’s recognition program. Pharmacy assistant Sandra has also been recognised as a State Finalist for Queensland Pharmacy Assistant of the Year.

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Sandra’s nomination celebrates the Terry White Chemmart motto ‘dedicated to care’ through recognising her genuine care for others, and her daily positive impact.

“We are incredibly proud to celebrate Sandra, who has been named a 2026 State Finalist for Pharmacy Assistant of the Year!” the team said.  

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“Sandra’s unwavering dedication to her community, genuine care for others, and positive outlook make a difference in the lives of so many people every day. This well-deserved recognition reflects not only her hard work and commitment, but also the kindness and compassion she brings to everything she does.”

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With exciting developments planned for the future of Terry White Chemmart Ingham, the team looks forward to continuing to support the community with new services and initiatives.

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Many local growers and industry representatives attended the first Herbert Variety Management Group meeting earlier this month. Photo source: Sugar Research Australia Limited

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Sugar industry representatives and local growers gathered this week for the first Herbert Variety Management Group meeting, marking a positive step forward for collaboration and productivity in the region.

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The meeting, which attracted a strong turnout earlier this month, brought together Herbert growers and key industry stakeholders to discuss cane variety performance and future opportunities for the district.

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Organisers thanked attendees for their participation and acknowledged Greg Shannon for sharing insights from the Tully Variety Management Group, highlighting the successes and learnings that could be applied to the Herbert region.

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The event forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen communication between growers, service providers and industry bodies, with a focus on improving cane variety selection and supporting long-term productivity across the sugar sector.

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Representatives from across the industry, including Sugar Research Australia Limited, CANEGROWERS, Herbert Productivity Services Limited, Wilmar Sugar Australia Limited and Tully Sugar Limited, were involved in the discussion.

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Organisers say they are looking forward to future meetings, with continued collaboration expected to play a key role in driving innovation and sharing knowledge across the industry.

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The Herbert Variety Management Group will continue to meet regularly as part of its commitment to improving outcomes for growers and supporting the sustainability of the sugar industry in North Queensland.

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Georgia and the team are here to help you find out about what support is available. Photo supplied

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Sometimes finding the right support or accessing the NDIS can be overwhelming. Other times it’s a matter of knowing where to turn. That’s where service navigator Georgia comes in; her role is all about connecting recipients with local services and resources that can make a meaningful difference in their lives.

Over the past four years, Georgia has progressed from a lifestyle support worker into her current role as a service navigator, supporting recipients across Ingham, Charters Towers, the Burdekin, Townsville, Palm Island and Richmond.

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Working across such a large footprint gives her a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities that exist across regional Queensland communities.

“A service navigator plays a vital role in guiding individuals through complex systems of support including health, community, housing, disability and social services,” said Georgia

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“The goal is to ensure people feel informed, supported and confident rather than lost or overwhelmed.”

Through her work, Georgia has learned that meaningful outcomes are unique and personal and that progress often comes through consistent support and encouragement.

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“One of the most important things I’ve learned in my role is that recovery takes time and looks different for everyone.

“I’ve also learned that recipients have so much potential when they’re given the right support, encouragement, and opportunities.”

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For those considering a career in the sector, Georgia believes looking after your own wellbeing is just as important as supporting others.

“The biggest advice I’d give to anyone considering a role in this sector is to make self-care a priority.”

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Meet Georgia and the team to find out more about what support is available by contacting 07 4781 2690 or pop into the Mental Health Hub at the Canegrowers Building, 11-13 Lannercost Street.

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