Northern Queensland Legacy have once again hosted a series of heartwarming Christmas Lunches across several shires to bring the community together and ensure veterans’ families are supported this festive season.

Annually, the Christmas Lunches provide a chance for widows and children of veterans to reconnect and celebrate the festive season with others who understand their unique circumstances.

The Northern Queensland Legacy's Herbert River Christmas Party was held recently at the Oasis Café in Ingham  where invited guests gathered together to share in a wonderful lunch and celebrated the silly season with a very competitive game of Christmas Trivia.

David Burke, President of Northern Queensland Legacy, attended and sees these events as a rare opportunity to ensure that for those living in small towns or remote communities, distance doesn’t mean disconnection.

“These Christmas lunches are much more than just a festive celebration. They are a vital lifeline for those who might otherwise feel isolated,” said David.

“It’s in these moments of shared joy that we remind each other that we’re not alone, and that the Legacy community stands together, not just during the holidays, but every day of the year."

Northern Queensland Legacy CEO, Nicole Hayes, believes the events are an essential part of Legacy’s tailored approach to addressing the challenges veterans’ widowers and children in small, remote communities face, especially when it comes to social isolation and access to services.

“For many, especially those facing social isolation, these events are a lifeline, offering not just a social gathering but a reminder that they are part of a supportive network,” Nicole explained.

“The sense of belonging and connection that these events foster helps reduce feelings of loneliness and builds a stronger sense of community. For those who might be living alone or distanced from family, these gatherings are a welcome opportunity to bond with others, share experiences, and feel supported in a fun, festive environment.”

Northern Queensland Legacy provides a range of support services, including social activities, financial assistance, home visits, and advocacy, all aimed at connecting individuals with vital resources.

“We strive to undertake regular contact including home visits and phone calls to check on people’s wellbeing to make sure that no one feels forgotten,” added Nicole.

“We provide a listening ear and practical supports, including links with services and agencies. We try to create opportunities for connection to bridge the gap that isolation can create and we aim to ensure that veterans' families are supported no matter where they live.”

Northern Queensland Legacy has expanded its eligibility criteria to now include the dependents of veterans who did not serve operationally or deploy overseas, opening the door for more families to access support. If your spouse served in the Australian Defence Force and you would like to check your eligibility, contact the Northern Queensland Legacy office on 4772 7533 or email admin@nqlegacy.com.au after the 26th of January 2026.

The government has delivered a new world-class hiking experience on Hinchinbrook Island. Thorsborne Trail is now complete and open for bookings, with the 32-kilometre walk set to begin in May 2026 once the wet season has concluded.

Thorsborne Trail is the third ecotourism project completed in the last six months as part of Destination 2045, the State’s 20-year tourism plan. The government is delivering a fresh start for Queensland’s environment after a decade of limited ecotourism development.

Offering an immersive walking experience in one of Australia’s most revered natural environments, Thorsborne Trail provides four-day, three-night hikes through the spectacular landscape of Hinchinbrook Island.

The trail is a flagship initiative under Destination 2045, demonstrating the government’s commitment to unlocking ecotourism, creating jobs, and providing new opportunities for operators. This rapid delivery of completed projects follows a period of limited ecotourism approvals, with only three projects approved in the past decade.

Since taking office, the government has unveiled Thorsborne Trail alongside Ngaro Track and Twin Bridges, with many more projects planned. Guided walks led by world-class tourism operator World Expeditions will begin after the wet season, while unguided hiking permits will be free for the 2026 hiking season.

Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said the government was delivering a better lifestyle through a stronger economy.

“We promised 45 ecotourism experiences when we launched Destination 2045 – to have already delivered three in time for Christmas shows spectacular progress for Queensland’s tourism industry,” Minister Powell said. 

“By championing projects like this, we can showcase Queensland’s incredible natural landscapes, delivering more experiences in our globally-acclaimed environment that inspire future conservationists to protect it. 

“Step aside New Zealand, move over Tasmania – Queensland is setting a new bar for ecotourism.”

Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa said this was a momentous occasion for his community.

“Locals know this place is spectacular, but now our piece of paradise has earned its place on the world stage,” Mr Chiesa said.

“This is the sort of experience that people will fly around the globe to discover, and as they do, they’ll bring massive economic gain to our local businesses.

“That means a boost to our restaurants, hotels and other experiences, and real growth for our community.”

To find free unguided hiking permits, visit https://parks.qld.gov.au/parks/hinchinbrook-thorsborne

Celebrating Confidence, Community and Christmas in Hinchinbrook

One of the greatest privileges of this role is witnessing first-hand the confidence our local businesses continue to place in our community.

This past week, I had the honour of officially opening a new chapter for one of our district’s proud family-run enterprises – Cantatore Pharmacy.

Brendan, Atlanta, and their team have shown tremendous faith in Hinchinbrook by expanding operations, investing in new facilities, and strengthening the local services we rely on, especially as we live in one of Queensland’s oldest demographics. Their commitment reflects what we all know to be true — Hinchinbrook is a place where businesses can prosper, families can grow, and community spirit thrives.

It’s equally exciting to see construction underway on Moduline’s new 5,000 m² automated factory and showroom on Herbert Street — a milestone that promises cutting-edge innovation, local jobs, and a vibrant boost to our town centre.

These decisions are never made lightly. Local businesses fight hard every day — through challenges, competition, and uncertainty — yet they continue to back our district.

They choose Hinchinbrook. They choose our people. And in doing so, they help build the strong, vibrant community we are so proud of.

As we head into the festive season, I’m reminded of how deeply our local businesses invest in us — not just through bricks and mortar, but through the countless ways they give back.

They sponsor sporting clubs, donate to community groups, support events, and contribute to the liveability and wellbeing of residents across the Shire. Every dollar spent locally strengthens that cycle of support.

That’s why I encourage everyone to make the most of Christmas Late Night Shopping on Thursday 18 December 2025. It’s a great opportunity to pick up gifts, enjoy the festive atmosphere, and show appreciation to the hardworking business owners who continue to put their faith in Hinchinbrook.

Shopping local isn’t just a transaction; it’s an investment in our future. When our businesses succeed, our entire community succeeds.

Thank you to everyone for your ongoing contribution to our district, and to all local businesses for your unwavering commitment to Hinchinbrook. Your confidence in our community speaks volumes, and we are proud to stand with you this Christmas season and beyond.

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Hello Hinchinbrook,

I wanted to share another update from the Hinchinbrook Drainage Advisory Group.

Since my last councillor column, there’s been some progress.

One of the key concerns — though certainly not the only one — has been blockages in mangrove drains and the challenges in maintaining these vital and fragile areas so they function as healthy waterways.

The Lower Herbert Water Management Authority (LHWMA) has successfully obtained the necessary documentation to carry out maintenance clearing on the access track to the Mandam Waterway.

Once this is complete, LHWMA will be able to conduct routine instream maintenance more efficiently and safely.

Following Mandam, other trial sites — Rifle Range Creek, Swampy Creek, and the outflow of Alligator Ponds — are also planned for rehabilitation as soon as the required documentation is received, hopefully early next year.

The group has conducted several onsite visits to these areas, which have helped government departments gain a clearer understanding of the mangrove maintenance work needed in the Lower Herbert Catchment.

While these trial sites represent only a small portion of our catchment, the aim is to establish a clear, repeatable process that works for landholders, ratepayers, HRIT, and LHWMA.

Ultimately, the goal is legislative change to make these activities “Acceptable Development,” enabling much shorter timeframes for planning and undertaking the work.

It’s always great to pick up a copy of Hinchinbrook Life and see what’s happening across our Shire — thank you for the opportunity to share this update.

As the year draws to a close and we look forward to a well-earned break with family and friends, please stay safe and take time to enjoy everything our Shire has to offer.

Finally, I’d like to wish everyone a wonderful Christmas in Hinchinbrook.

Why Soil Health Matters

As rural communities wrapped up another year of planting, harvesting and hard work on the land, World Soil Day on 5 December offered an important reminder of the quiet powerhouse beneath our feet — the soil that sustains farms, families and entire regions.

Often taken for granted, soil underpins Australia’s agricultural output, contributing around $90 billion to the national economy each year. It’s also one of the most complex living ecosystems on Earth, home to more than a quarter of the planet’s biodiversity. From tiny microbes to earthworms and insects, healthy soil supports life well beyond what we see on the surface.

Globally, an estimated 95 per cent of food production relies directly or indirectly on soil. For rural communities, that makes healthy soil fundamental not just to local farm productivity, but to long-term food security, economic strength and the resilience of regional landscapes.

World Soil Day — a United Nations initiative held annually on 5 December — aims to raise awareness of soil as a vital natural resource. This year’s theme, Healthy Soil for Healthy Cities, highlights the growing connection between rural food production and urban communities that rely on it.

Here in Australia, efforts to protect and improve soil health continue through the National Soil Strategy and National Soil Action Plan — the country’s first long-term national policy dedicated to soil. Backed by more than $90 million in federal investment, these initiatives support soil monitoring, research, information sharing and on-ground programs across farming regions.

Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Policy Group Deputy Secretary Matt Lowe said soil remains central to Australia’s prosperity and resilience.

“Soil is an integral part of the Australian landscape,” he said.

“It supports us all, no matter where we live, and provides essential ecosystem and production services that contributes to Australia’s economic, environmental and social wellbeing.

“Soil also has cultural significance, and its health impacts biodiversity, water and air quality, human health and plays a vital role in building resilience to natural disasters and adapting to and mitigating climate change.”

As the wet season approaches and preparations begin for the year ahead, World Soil Day serves as a timely reminder: strong, healthy soil is the foundation on which rural Australia grows — and protecting it benefits communities far and wide.

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Queensland’s much-loved giant mud crab populations are thriving, with a major new study reaffirming the State Government’s commitment to maintaining a world-class and sustainable fisheries industry.

A recently completed study led by Queensland’s Department of Primary Industries (DPI) and co-funded by the Australian Government through the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation (FRDC) has confirmed that there is no current threat to the sustainability of the species. The research highlights the effectiveness of existing regulations, including the male-only harvest policy and the 15-centimetre legal minimum size limit.

The extensive project analysed approximately 20,000 giant mud crabs collected from across the state, using cutting-edge genetic techniques and satellite tagging to examine stock structure, monitor population health, and deepen the understanding of mud crab biology—particularly the spawning migration patterns of females.

DPI Principal Fisheries Scientist and lead researcher Dr Julie Robins said the findings provide strong scientific reassurance that Queensland’s management frameworks are successfully supporting healthy populations.

“Giant mud crabs are an iconic species and a vital part of Queensland’s fisheries, with our state accounting for 64% of Australia’s commercial harvest,” Dr Robins said.

“A significant success was the robust genetic analysis of the mud crab populations along the east coast and the Gulf of Carpentaria.

“Queensland’s male minimum legal-size limit ensures a proportion of mature males are available to reproduce and over 90% of females sampled were mated and getting ready to spawn. This means there’s no shortage of mature crabs to produce the next lot of offspring.”

Dr Robins said the research not only expanded scientific knowledge but also provided crucial biological reference points for future management.

“This study has added tremendous value to our collective knowledge and laid the groundwork for future discussions about mud crab management in Queensland,” she said.

"The collaborative nature of this project, working side-by-side with the commercial fishers, was invaluable. Their local knowledge was key to successfully gathering data on this iconic species."

As giant mud crabs remain a Queensland favourite—both commercially and recreationally—the study’s findings offer welcome confirmation that current sustainability measures are working, ensuring the species continues to flourish for generations to come.

Hinchinbrook invited to Take Part in Festive Beetle Count

If you’ve wondered when you last spotted a Christmas beetle, you’re not alone. Many Australians have noticed fewer of these iconic, shiny insects in recent years. But there’s hope: researchers are calling on the community to help track their return through the annual Christmas Beetle Count.

Since the 1st of October, iNaturalist reports there have already been 226 sightings this season. The project, run by Invertebrates Australia, aims to understand the population trends of Christmas beetles and investigate why numbers may be declining.

Participants are encouraged to count and photograph any beetles they see, contributing to a national database that helps researchers solve the mystery of the Christmas beetle’s changing numbers. The sightings collected also help track species diversity, seasonal patterns, and distribution.

The project covers beetles from the genera Anoplognathus, Calloodes, and Repsimus, and sightings are recorded across Australia. So far, over 20,000 observations have been logged, with popular species including the Washerwoman (Anoplognathus porosus), Duck Billed Beetle (Anoplognathus montanus), and Emerald Tip Beetle (Anoplognathus brunnipennis).

To take part, locals can visit www.inaturalist.org/projects/christmas-beetle-count to submit observations. For those unsure how to identify the beetles, the Australian Museum’s Xmas Beetle ID Guide app is available on both iOS and Android.

By joining the Christmas Beetle Count, residents not only get a chance to enjoy a festive outdoor activity but also contribute valuable data to help protect these native insects for generations to come!

The Lucinda Store is once again the place to be this festive season, offering locals and visitors alike a one-stop shop for convenience, food, and coastal charm. Owned by the Fortini and Waldon families, the beachfront store is open seven days a week, serving everything from freshly prepared meals and barista-made coffee to everyday grocery essentials.

This Christmas, Lucinda Store is helping families celebrate with specially prepared prawn packs, perfect for holiday gatherings by the beach or at home. Alongside the fresh-caught festive seafood, customers can enjoy fresh fish and chips, homemade treats, pizzas, and the ever-popular Big Jetty Burger, all available to take away or enjoy in the relaxed alfresco dining area overlooking the iconic Lucinda Jetty and surrounding islands.

With cool ocean breezes and stunning views, the outdoor seating marks Lucinda Store as a destination for family meals, casual catch-ups, and beachside dining.

For those heading out on the water, their sister business, the Channel Inn Lucinda Convenience Store, complements the Lucinda Store by offering boating essentials, grab-and-go meals, frozen pizzas, locally sourced meats, fuel, ice, and a well-stocked bottleshop. It’s the perfect support for boaties and early risers looking for convenience and quality before their Christmas fishing trip.

Whether you’re stocking up for Christmas, enjoying a casual meal by the water, or preparing for a day out on the boat, Lucinda Store and Channel Inn Lucinda Convenience Store delivers fresh local produce and a welcoming atmosphere for everyone to enjoy.

The team at SPAR Halifax wishes the Halifax and wider Hinchinbrook community a joyful Christmas and a happy, healthy New Year. We thank all our customers for their support throughout 2025 and hope your festive season is filled with friendship and good cheer.

As your local supermarket and post office, we are proud to help the community not only with everyday shopping essentials but also by assisting with sending and receiving Christmas gifts and parcels. Our team is here to make the festive season a little easier, helping your packages reach family and friends.

We look forward to continuing to serve you in 2026, providing friendly service, everyday grocery essentials, hot box favourites, and ongoing support for the community we are so grateful to be part of. Please note our Christmas closure is Thursday 25th December. We look forward to seeing you all in the New Year!

A Family Business

Guido’s Panel & Paint Pty Ltd has been a cornerstone of the Ingham and Cardwell community since 1992. Founded by Guido and Maria Giliberto, the family-owned business has grown from a two-man workshop in a small shed to a purpose-built facility on McIlwraith Street. Today, under the leadership of their son David, Guido’s continues to deliver high-quality panel repairs, spray painting, vehicle restorations, and maintenance services.

Over the years, the team has kept pace with changing technology, repair methods, and vehicle models, offering in-house training and opportunities for apprentices to develop skills in spray painting and panel beating. The business celebrates long-term, experienced staff and prides itself on returning vehicles to their pre-accident condition, or better.

Guido’s is deeply committed to the local community, supporting schools, clubs, non-profits, and events such as the previous Australian Italian Festival, the Kids Day Out fence painting event at the Maraka Festival, and the artistic Birdlife Awards. They always support the Secondary School Work Experience Program and welcome students to the workshop to have hands-on experiences in the vehicle repair industry.

This year, Guido’s Panel & Paint will close for the holiday break on Friday, December 19th, reopening on Monday, January 12th, 2026. While the team takes a well-earned rest, David and Maria remain available for emergency advice if needed. Customers are encouraged to explore premium JUICE Car Care products available at the workshop as a perfect gift or for personal use.

Whether you’re looking to restore a vehicle, learn about repairs, or simply support a family business that gives back to the community, Guido’s Panel & Paint continues to combine their expertise with dedication in everything they do.

Office National Tully is strengthening its presence across North Queensland, now extending its services to businesses, schools and organisations throughout the Hinchinbrook region, including Ingham and surrounding communities.

Based in Tully, the locally operated business has built a strong reputation for supplying office products, technology solutions and workplace essentials tailored to regional needs. With existing clients already in the Hinchinbrook area, the expansion reflects growing demand for reliable, locally backed service beyond their immediate base.

Office National Tully offers a comprehensive range of office supplies, furniture, print and technology solutions, supporting workplaces of all sizes. Their focus on personalised service means customers receive practical advice, flexible ordering options and dependable delivery, helping businesses stay productive and well equipped.

The move to support more Hinchinbrook customers reinforces the company’s commitment to regional Queensland.  By bringing its services to Ingham and nearby areas, Office National Tully aims to provide local businesses with easier access to quality products and trusted support, without relying on distant metropolitan suppliers.

As workplaces continue to adapt and grow, having a dependable office supply partner close to home makes a meaningful difference. Office National Tully’s expanded service area ensures Hinchinbrook businesses can access the same high standard of service, expertise and product range that has made the company a trusted name throughout the Cassowary Coast.

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At Gilroy Santa Maria College

2025 has been a year to remember at Gilroy Santa Maria College, marked by outstanding achievements across the arts, sport, academics and community life.

The Arts Retrospective at the Gilroy Santa Maria Centre was an evening showcasing student talent in music, dance, sculpture, painting, photography, and makeup design. Year 11 and 12 Hospitality students played a key role, planning and delivering the event while preparing and serving a four-course dinner.

A significant milestone was celebrated as the College marked 75 years of education, faith and community connection.

Hospitality students continued to impress with The Red Lantern, an Asian-inspired degustation event designed and managed by senior students completing their Certificate II in Hospitality.

Sporting achievements were a highlight of the year, with the Gilroy Velocity Raptors travelling to Germany to compete on the world stage. School teams recorded strong results across football, netball, futsal, touch and cricket, including multiple regional and zone championships, while many students earned NQ representative honours.

Creative excellence was recognised for 2 students at the Hinchinbrook Birdlife Awards and the Hinchinbrook Art Awards.

Academic success was equally impressive, with 11 students achieving 100 percent results across a range of subjects and a record eight early university offers.

Several students achieved exceptional individual success in 2025. Sophie was named among the top three finalists in Queensland for Trainee of the Year and completed a Certificate III in Health Support Assistance through the Deadly Start Program. Conor secured a school-based apprenticeship with DC Auto Electrical Works and is completing a Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology.

Grace excelled academically and in sport, earning North Queensland representation in Girls Rugby 7s while achieving perfect assessment results across English, Biology and Chemistry. Gemma was awarded the prestigious Deus Caritas Est Award by Townsville Catholic Education, along with a Queensland Agriculture Teachers Association Certificate of Excellence. She completed a Certificate III in Agriculture, a traineeship with Tropical Agricultural Services, and recorded outstanding academic results across Biology, English and General Mathematics.

The year concluded with a moving Year 12 Graduation Mass, celebrating achievement and the strong sense of community that defines Gilroy Santa Maria College.

At Our Lady Of Lourdes

Highlights of the Year 6 Graduation Dinner included students beginning the evening with a beautifully prepared dance, followed by a reflection from the School Captains on their years at Our Lady of Lourdes.

Guests then enjoyed a meal together before the graduates were presented with their certificates. It was a wonderful evening celebrating the conclusion of their primary school journey, surrounded by parents, friends, and staff.

The school wishes God’s blessings on all students as they begin the next chapter of their learning journey.

Congratulations to Zoe Lahtinen

Ingham State High School is proud to announce that Year 12 student, Zoe Lahtinen, has been named the 2025 Herbert River District Canegrowers/Mitre 10 Senior Secondary Scholar of the Year. The award was presented at the school’s recent Annual Awards Ceremony and recognises the highest overall academic achievement across five General Subjects, based on results and rankings at the end of Term 3.

Zoe’s outstanding academic performance and commitment to excellence set her apart in a highly competitive field. In addition to receiving the school’s most prestigious academic award, Zoe was also honoured with several major accolades on the night, including:

· Distinction with Honours for Studies, acknowledging an “A” standard across all subjects
· Distinction for Service, recognising her contribution to the school and wider community
· Subject Awards for Chemistry, Mathematical Methods, and Physics
· The ADF Long Tan Leadership and Teamwork Award – Year 12, celebrating her leadership, resilience, and teamwork

Zoe’s academic performance this year has been outstanding, achieving a perfect score of 100% in her Internal Assessments for both Chemistry and Mathematical Methods—an exceptional accomplishment that showcases her dedication and exemplary work ethic.

Teachers describe Zoe as a motivated, thoughtful and inquisitive learner who consistently strives for mastery in every subject she undertakes. Her achievements highlight not only academic excellence but also the discipline and determination required to reach the highest levels of success.

Looking ahead, Zoe has set her sights on a career in medicine and hopes to study a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery at James Cook University in Townsville. With her strong academic foundation and commitment to helping others, she is well on her way to an exciting future.

The Ingham State High School community extends its warmest congratulations to Zoe on her incredible accomplishments. We are immensely proud of all she has achieved and look forward to seeing the many ways she will continue to excel.

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Senior Secondary Scholar of the Year, Zoe Lahtinen. Photo supplied

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JEDDA MICK

• Blue Light Resilience Award

JOSEPH MICK

• Sports Award

JAYDEN MANN

• P-2 Academic Award

ELLA CAMERON

• Mitre-10 Leadership Award

GABRIEL LANCINI

• 3-6 Diligence Award

ELYSE COOPER

• 3-6 Spirit Award

ELIJAH STUMPE

• 3-6 Academic Award

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