Principal Rod Flood, Vanessa (Palms Aged Care), Courtney Larragan, Marcia (Palms Aged Care). Photo supplied

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Contributed with thanks by Ingham State High School

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Ingham State High School is proud to celebrate the remarkable achievements of Year 12 student Courtney Larragan, whose dedication to her studies, employment and the aged care sector has culminated in an outstanding national scholarship achievement.

While balancing the demands of Year 12, employment and senior schooling, Courtney has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to building a career in health and aged care. Last year, she applied for the highly competitive Aged Care Nursing Scholarship Program, supported by the Australian College of Nurse Practitioners.

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The prestigious scholarship recognises individuals already working within the aged care industry who demonstrate outstanding potential and a strong commitment to further professional development. Providing $6,000 towards further study, the program offers recipients valuable support as they continue to develop their skills and pursue careers in the aged care and nursing sectors.

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Courtney was selected from applicants from across Australia to receive this prestigious scholarship — an extraordinary accomplishment and a testament to her professionalism, determination and genuine commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.

Rather than simply celebrating this achievement, Courtney has continued to turn opportunity into action. Following her scholarship success, she enrolled in a Certificate IV in Ageing Support, which she has since completed in record time, all while continuing to meet the demands of her Year 12 studies.

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Courtney's success also highlights the significant role that strong partnerships between schools, industry and the wider community can play in creating meaningful pathways for young people. A special acknowledgement goes to Churches of Christ Palms Aged Care, where Courtney is proudly employed. Palms Aged Care has been a valued and longstanding partner of Ingham State High School, supporting many students through school-based traineeships, work experience and vocational placements. These partnerships are instrumental in helping students connect their learning with the world of work and make informed decisions about their futures.

Ingham State High School was delighted to welcome Marcia and Vanessa from Palms Aged Care to a recent school assembly, where they joined staff and students in recognising Courtney's outstanding achievement and celebrating this significant milestone.

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Courtney's story is an inspiring example of the many pathways available to young people beyond the traditional classroom. Her scholarship success demonstrates that opportunities can emerge well before graduation when students are willing to embrace challenges, pursue their interests and work consistently towards their goals.

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Ingham High looks forward to seeing Courtney continue to grow and make a meaningful contribution to the health and aged care sector. Her achievements are a source of great pride for the entire school community.

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As part of the Duke of Edinburgh program students hiked Mt Tyson. Photo Supplied 

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Tully SHS sits in the heart of Tully, educating over 750 students across the Cassowary Coast as the district’s only secondary school. 

Tully SHS offers a broad range of programs that cater for every student, spanning academic, cultural and sporting pathways. Students continue to shine across these areas showcasing their capabilities which reflects the strong standards and supportive learning environment the school has.

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NAPLAN RESULTS: 

Tully SHS values student success and in credit to teachers and students alike, this year’s NAPLAN results show significant improvement and a positive trend that is increasingly aligned with national performance. 

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DUKE OF EDINBURGH AWARD: 

Beyond the classroom, Tully SHS students can take part in the Duke of Edinburgh Awards; an internationally recognised program designed to challenge young people, build leadership qualities and encourage them to step outside their comfort zone.

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The program has different awards which require the students to complete community service, develop a personal skill, spend time doing physical recreation and participate in an adventurous journey. 

The program offers students many benefits and provides the opportunity to set goals, overcome challenges, work as part of a team and discover what they are capable of achieving - all whilst making memories that will last a lifetime. 

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Tully SHS looks forward to supporting students as they take on this exciting challenge and begin their Duke of Edinburgh journey.

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SPORTS DEV PROGRAMME: 

This year’s sporting achievements has been outstanding with students taking part in the Sports Development Program, which provides students with opportunities to participate in a wide variety of sports throughout the year. 

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The aim of the program is to develop their skills, confidence and enjoyment of physical activity, students are encouraged to get involved, have fun and challenge themselves.

The sports featured in the program include Netball, Cross Country, Volleyball, Athletics, Touch Football, Cricket, Basketball, Golf and the Gym/Fitness Club.

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The initiative also aims to strengthen connections between Tully SHS and local sporting clubs and community organisations. These partnerships provide students with pathways to continue participating in their chosen sports outside of school and encourage them to become active members of local sporting communities.

Overall, Tully State High School continues to create a learning community where every student is encouraged to discover their strengths, pursue their passions and reach their full potential. 

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Members of the Girringun community, pictured in 2022, have been part of an organisation that has helped strengthen culture, Country and community across the region for three decades. Photo supplied

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Three decades of culture, leadership and connection to Country have been celebrated in Cardwell, as Girringun Aboriginal Corporation marks 30 years since its establishment.

The milestone was commemorated through a three-day celebration from Friday 14th to Sunday 16th August, bringing together Traditional Owners, Elders, youth, partners and the wider community to reflect on Girringun’s journey and look towards its future.

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Girringun Marks 30 Years Of Culture, Connection & Community In Cardwell

Girringun was established in Cardwell in 1996 as a united voice for nine Traditional Owner groups and has since grown into a significant Indigenous-led organisation working across cultural heritage, Caring for Country and land and sea management.

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2026’s 30-year celebration held over the weekend centred on the theme “Our People, Our Country, Our Voice”, with Girringun Aboriginal Corporation describing the milestone as an opportunity to acknowledge those who have walked before, celebrate achievements and recognise the next generation carrying the work forward.  

Attendees from several communities in North Queensland enjoyed storytelling, cultural activities, community connection, music, cultural dance, markets, workshops, an art exhibition, children’s activities and lighting installations over the weekend, as well as a formal Gala Dinner held on the evening of Friday 14th August.

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Hinchinbrook Shire Councillor Donna Marbelli attended the dinner on behalf of Hinchinbrook Shire Council, describing it as an honour to celebrate 30 years of “culture, connection, community and creating opportunities for people and families across the region”.

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“The evening was a beautiful celebration of Girringun’s history, strength and vision for the future, with a Smoking Ceremony, Welcome to Country, cultural dance, music, inspiring stories and wonderful guest speakers sharing their knowledge and experiences,” Cr Marbelli said.

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“It was particularly special to hear the Creation Story and to reflect on the generations of knowledge, culture and connection that continue to be shared and passed on.”

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The milestone also comes during a significant year for Girringun, which has been recognised nationally for its Indigenous-led approach to Caring for Country and culture. Girringun was named a finalist in the 2026 National NAIDOC Caring for Country and Culture Award category.

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As the organisation looks towards the next 30 years, its celebration has provided an opportunity to honour the past while continuing to strengthen culture, Country and community for future generations.

Member for Hinchinbrook, Wayde Chiesa MP at Port Hinchinbrook. Photo supplied

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Plans to revitalise Port Hinchinbrook are continuing to gather momentum, with the search for a contractor to undertake major dredging works now moving into its next stage.

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The latest milestone follows the closure of market sounding and early market engagement on 17th July, with Economic Development Queensland (EDQ) receiving responses from multiple suitably qualified dredging contractors and local suppliers.

EDQ has now progressed to an Early Contractor Involvement tender process, with bids due to close on 28^th August.

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Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa said the progress was another important step towards restoring activity at the long-troubled Cardwell precinct.

“Getting Port Hinchinbrook moving again was a commitment I made to this community, and it’s good to see us reaching another important step,” Mr Chiesa said.

“We now have multiple suitably qualified contractors expressing interest in the dredging work and are moving into the next stage of the process.

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“There is still work to be done before dredging can begin, but these are the steps that need to happen to get us there and I’ll continue to keep the community updated as the project progresses.”

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The proposed dredging is a key component of the broader Port Hinchinbrook revitalisation project, which aims to restore navigability throughout the marina and surrounding waterways and create greater opportunities for marine activity, tourismand future investment.

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Earlier planning for the precinct identified the reinstatement of waterways, the Stony Creek canal and access channels as important outcomes, with restored access expected to support marine rescue operations, recreational users and tourism operators.

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The broader project also includes safety upgrades to existing marina buildings and offices, as well as environmental management measures addressing long-standing issues including siltation and sediment management.

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Initial environmental and geotechnical investigations have now commenced and will help inform the civil engineering methodology for works on Lot 170.

EDQ has also met with the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation to discuss environmental approval requirements and will continue working with the department throughout the approval process.

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Discussions are continuing with Cassowary Coast Regional Council to coordinate works and approvals as the project progresses.

The Port Hinchinbrook precinct covers approximately 140 hectares and was declared a Provisional Priority Development Area in November 2025, providing a framework for future development across the site.

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The revitalisation project is intended to address long-standing infrastructure and environmental issues while helping unlock future economic opportunities for Cardwell and the wider Hinchinbrook region.

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While dredging is yet to commence, the current tender process marks a significant step towards securing the contractor needed to deliver the works.

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Mr Chiesa said further updates would be provided as the project moves through the necessary procurement, environmental and approval processes.

Cassowary Coast households have a new incentive to tackle those long-overdue property clean-ups, with free waste disposal vouchers arriving alongside August rate notices.

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The new program will provide households with two free vouchers each year, designed to make it easier to clear out unwanted household waste. Each voucher can be used once for an eligible load of dry household waste at any Cassowary Coast Regional Council waste transfer station.

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Vouchers are linked to the property they were issued to, are valid until the expiry date shown, and they cannot be used for items including tyres, fridges, freezers, air conditioners, solar panels and asbestos, which attract separate disposal fees.

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Johnstone River Towing has received $20,000 through Round 2 of the Secure Communities Partnership Program – Small Business stream to fund access control and entry management upgrades. Photo source: Johnstone River Towing

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Johnstone River Towing has been awarded $20,000 under Round 2 of the Secure Communities Partnership Program – Small Business stream to deliver access control and entry management upgrades aimed at improving site security and helping prevent crime.

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Johnstone River Towing stands one of more than 170 small and family businesses across the state to share almost $2 million in funding during the latest round of the program, which supports practical security improvements such as CCTV, alarm systems, secure fencing, lighting, bollards and access control measures.

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Minister for Small and Family Business Steve Minnikin said the program highlighted the State Government's commitment to helping businesses operate in a safer environment.

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"This program is a testament to the Government's commitment to ensuring small and family businesses across the State have the tools they need to operate in a safer environment," Mr Minnikin said.

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"From local retailers to tradespeople and hospitality operators, small businesses are the lifeblood of our communities, and we are proud to stand with them."

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Mr Minnikin said the funding would enable more businesses to implement practical crime prevention measures that protect premises, staff and customers while giving business owners greater peace of mind.

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The Secure Communities Partnership Program has now completed two funding rounds, with grants helping businesses across Queensland improve security, create safer workplaces and contribute to stronger, more secure communities.

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Vivienne Edwards and her uncle Victor “Shorty” Cassady share their love of music through Cassady Connections. Photo supplied

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For North Queensland musicians Vivienne Edwards and her uncle Victor “Shorty” Cassady, music is more than a performance — it is a family tradition spanning generations.

Together, the pair form Cassady Connections, a musical duo built around the motto “One Blood. One Family. One Musical Connection.”

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With more than 115 years of combined musical experience, the duo’s roots stretch back to gospel music in Halifax Gardens, Innisfail and Ingham, alongside a shared love of country music.

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Vivienne, 58, has enjoyed a distinguished career as a singer-songwriter and recording artist, recording four albums, earning recognition for her songwriting, receiving a Deadly Award nomination and progressing through the blind auditions of The Voice.

Yet, she said performing alongside her 83-year-old uncle was her most meaningful musical achievement.

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“I am privileged, honoured and blessed to be able to share a stage with Uncle. He is the Guitar Guru,” Vivienne said.

Victor, known affectionately as “Shorty”, hails from Halifax’s Gardens and has spent a lifetime playing guitar and singing.

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A passionate fan of classic music, he is particularly renowned for his instrumental performances of songs by The Shadows.

Vivienne said her uncle’s talent and warmth were a major reason she wanted to share the stage with him.

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“Uncle Shorty is a legend,” she said.

“His talent and gifts are far too bright to remain hidden from the world.”

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Together, the pair aim to make audiences part of the performance, encouraging participation and creating an atmosphere where everyone can enjoy the music.

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Whether performing gospel favourites, country classics, original songs or beloved guitar instrumentals, Cassady Connections celebrates family, heritage and community.

“Most importantly, I want to share my stage with my Uncle because he is my hero,” Vivienne said.

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For the duo, the greatest reward is simple: sharing music, meeting people and celebrating a connection that has been generations in the making.

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Contributed with thanks to Vivienne Edwards.

Coast Guard QF14 Volunteers recently spotted a large crocodile in the Hinchinbrook Channel along with another sizeable salty on Saturday 8th August. Photo for illustration. Photo source: Shutterstock

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Hinchinbrook and Cassowary Coast residents preparing to hit the water over the coming months are being urged to exercise heightened caution, with September to April marking the peak period for crocodile activity and the beginning of the crocodile breeding season.

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The timely warning comes after Coast Guard Ingham QF14 recently spotted two large male crocodiles sunning themselves on the mudflats at Benjamin Flats along the Hinchinbrook Channel during a training exercise earlier this month.

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“September is only two weeks away, and it heralds the start of the crocodile breeding season, when the big males are out and about seeking partners, and they get a bit narky when you come into their patch,” a Coast Guard Ingham QF14 spokesperson said.

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Coast Guard Ingham QF14 has reminded boat users to remain particularly vigilant when launching and retrieving vessels, and when people find themselves close to the water’s edge in general. Residents are urged to avoid entering the water wherever possible and, if they must get their legs wet while using a boat ramp, to remain between the ramp wall and their vessel. It’s also advised to never to dangle their hands over the side of a boat to wash off bait or fish scraps, instead using a bucket to dispose of waste safely.

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“This very large salty was seen to be eying our crew from the mudflat nearby. This was the second large Crocodile they encountered that day. A timely reminder to keep an eye out for them while on the water.” Steve Whipps, Commander of the QF14 Coast Guard reported that the crocodile kept watch of the QF14’s members as they performed "man overboard", "fire", and "grounding" manoeuvres.

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Hinchinbrook and Cassowary Coast residents are asked to report any wild crocodile sightings as soon as safely possible using the official QWildlife application, the Queensland Government’s online form via www.qld.gov.au/environment/plants-animals/animals/living-with/crocodiles/crocodile-sightings/report-a-crocodile, or by calling 1300 130 372 to speak directly with authorities.  

Council unveils new bitumen patching truck added to its fleet. Photo supplied

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Hinchinbrook Shire Council has invested in road maintenance through the introduction of a new bitumen patching truck to its fleet.

Expected to reduce repair times by approximately 30 per cent and improve operational productivity by around 25 per cent, the new truck will strengthen Council's ability to undertake pothole repairs, pavement patching, edge repairs and routine road maintenance across the Hinchinbrook road network.

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Acting Mayor Mary Brown said the investment will help Council deliver safer road conditions and respond more effectively to road maintenance needs throughout the Shire.

"Residents want roads that are safe and well maintained, and they expect us to respond quickly when repairs are needed," Cr Brown said.

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"This new Bitumen Patching Truck will help our crews work more efficiently, complete more repairs each day and provide better value for our community."

The truck replaces an ageing jet patcher and provides a more reliable, purpose-built solution for road maintenance operations.  

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The new vehicle is expected to support up to 800 road maintenance activities each year and repair around 4,000 potholes annually, depending on weather events and maintenance priorities. Council also anticipates whole-of-life operating cost savings of approximately 10 to 15 per cent through improved reliability, reduced downtime and lower maintenance requirements.  

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In addition to productivity gains, the truck incorporates modern safety features including automatic transmission, a reversing camera and a purpose-built bitumen patching body designed to improve operational safety and efficiency.

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The integrated equipment reduces manual handling and enables road maintenance work to be completed more safely and effectively in the field.

Infrastructure Services portfolio Councillor Andrew Carr said the investment demonstrates Council's commitment to maintaining essential infrastructure and ensuring residents across both urban and rural areas benefit from reliable road networks.

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"Whether you're travelling to work, taking the kids to school or transporting goods across the region, well-maintained roads are vital," Cr Carr said.

"This investment gives our crews the tools they need to keep delivering the services our community relies on every day."

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Residents that notice a pothole or road that requires maintenance are encouraged to contact Council on (07) 4776 4600 to lodge a request.

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Past students, families and friends of Trebonne State School are invited to come along and reconnect over an afternoon of memories and community. Photo source: Trebonne State School

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Past students, families and friends of Trebonne State School (TSS) are being warmly invited to reconnect and reminisce at a Past Students Catch-Up Afternoon Tea on Saturday 29th August.

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TSS former student, Rhonda Skinner took it upon herself to organise the event after years of saying she would catch up with former classmates and acquaintances.

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“When I ran into past acquaintances, I always say ‘we must catch up’ but we never seem to find the right opportunity. As time seems to pass so quickly, I decided now was the right time,” Rhonda said.

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“Trebonne State School in those days wasn’t just about the students, but rather it was the hub of community engagement and parental support was willingly embraced by the teaching body,” she said.

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“In those days the school relied on the community to provide support and funding to achieve the best for our children. Our involvement there with tuck shop, fund raising and every day activities brought us together and generated a positive and welcoming environment,” she said.

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The afternoon tea will commence at 2pm, with attendees asked to bring along a chair and a plate to share. While organisers are still unsure how many people will attend, Ms Skinner said word was continuing to spread throughout the community.

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“I expect we will see a good roll up on the day as I’m sure many past pupils will have positive memories of those days!”

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What: Trebonne State School Past Students Catch-Up Afternoon Tea

When: 2pm, Saturday, 29th August

Where: 71 Stone River Road, Trebonne  

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For people without the right identification documents, finding a job can be difficult before they even reach the interview stage.

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A new ID & Essentials Expo Roadshow will visit the Hinchinbrook region in August, bringing government agencies, employment services, training providers and community organisations together to help residents overcome some of these practical barriers.

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Workforce Australia Local Jobs Support Officer Steph McLean said bringing multiple services together would make it easier for people to address several practical needs in one visit.

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“Without basic identification, people are locked out of work, training and even essential everyday services,” Ms McLean said.

The roadshow, led by Workforce Australia Local Jobs Townsville, will travel across the Townsville Employment Region from 25th to 28th August 2026, including a stop in Hinchinbrook on Wednesday, 26th August 2026.

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The initiative is designed to support job seekers and community members who may be experiencing disadvantage, living in regional areas or facing difficulties accessing essential services. Visitors will be able to receive practical assistance with obtaining birth certificates and other identity documents, Medicare and Centrelink linkage, Tax File Number applications and photo identification.

The expo will bring together employers, training organisations, housing and financial support services and community providers, giving visitors direct access to a broad range of assistance and opportunities.

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“This Expo brings services together in a coordinated way so people can resolve multiple barriers in a single visit and take immediate steps toward employment and independence.”

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The initiative aligns with the Townsville Local Jobs Plan by supporting workforce participation and creating stronger pathways into employment and training across the region.

Further details, including the Hinchinbrook venue and participating organisations, are expected to be released closer to the event.

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WHAT: ID & Essentials Expo Roadshow
WHEN: Wednesday, 26th August 2026
WHERE: Hinchinbrook

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Halifax State School provides students with opportunities to thrive academically, socially and emotionally. Photos supplied

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Contributed with thanks by Halifax State School

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Halifax State School welcomes enrolment enquiries from families looking for a supportive, inclusive and engaging learning environment where children can learn, grow and thrive.

The school’s dedicated staff provide high-quality educational experiences designed to inspire students to achieve their personal best while developing the knowledge, skills and confidence they need for lifelong success.

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Students at Halifax State School benefit from a broad and balanced curriculum, with learning opportunities across Languages Other Than English, The Arts, Science and Technology. Students can also take part in a range of sporting activities, including tennis, while developing teamwork, fitness and healthy lifestyle habits.

Strong literacy and numeracy programs provide students with a solid foundation for their education, while opportunities for personal growth and leadership development help build confidence and independence.

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The school also places great importance on building strong partnerships with families. Staff work closely with parents and carers to support each child’s individual learning journey and create a positive, nurturing environment where students can thrive academically, socially and emotionally.

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For families considering Prep for their child, Halifax State School is also preparing for upcoming Prep Open Days. These provide an opportunity for prospective families to visit the school, meet staff and discover what makes Halifax State School a wonderful place to begin a child's educational journey.

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Families interested in learning more about enrolment, the school’s programs or upcoming Prep Open Days are encouraged to contact Halifax State School or arrange a school visit.

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Halifax State School is proud to support its students in learning, growing and succeeding together.

GSMC 100 Days until graduation year 12 group photo. Photo supplied

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Contributed with thanks by Gilroy Santa Maria College.

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The last stretch, the home run, the final leg as graduation is on the horizon for the Class of 2026 at Gilroy Santa Maria College.

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Swapping their uniform for suspenders and stringy pearls, last week the GSMC Year 12s dressed up as 100-year-olds to mark 100 days until graduation.

Looking back to their first year at GSMC, this milestone may have felt out of reach with the challenges of online learning and empty classrooms in 2020 rounding out their primary school years. The graduating group have embraced this final chapter with open arms, making memories inside and outside the gates of GSMC.

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Recently the Senior Sunrise tradition continued, seeing students set an extra early alarm to catch the glow of sunrise at Forrest Beach. Many memorable events are still to come with dress ups for Book Week, 80 Days until Graduation, GSMC Fun Run, Maraka Festival and more on the calendar.

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While the celebrations have been warmly welcomed, the to-do list isn’t entirely ticked off yet.

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GSMC Year 12 students choosing a university pathway are currently completing their QTAC applications by listing their top 6 preferences for courses and universities, compiling supporting documents and researching scholarship opportunities.

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Students embracing a trade pathway are now finalising their certificate-based studies at the College, with final hands-on assessments preparing them for real life experiences to come in 2027.

The Years 3-6 students proudly standing in front of their poetry pinned to the classroom walls. Photo supplied

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Contributed with thanks to St Peter’s Catholic School

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Students in Years 3-6 recently immersed themselves in the exciting world of poetry, exploring a wide range of poetic forms, techniques and styles as part of their Poetry Unit. Throughout the term, students investigated the key elements of poetry, including structure, rhythm, rhyme, sound devices and figurative language, while developing an understanding of how these features influence and engage an audience. 

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Students learnt about a variety of poetic forms, including acrostic poems, couplets, shape poems, quatrains, cinquains, limericks, haikus and ballads. They also explored figurative language techniques such as similes, metaphors and personification, alongside sound devices including alliteration and onomatopoeia, just to name a few. 

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Inspired by the many styles of poetry they encountered, students created, refined and published their own original poems. The unit culminated in a vibrant Poetry Showcase, where students proudly presented a poem of their choice to members of their families and the school community and shared their published work. 

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The Showcase was a wonderful celebration of creativity, confidence and self-expression, providing students with a memorable and enriching experience in the world of poetry.

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Prep class at Our Lady of Lourdes, sitting proudly on their 3D handmade town map Photos supplied

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This term, our Prep students have been busy learning about the special community helpers who make our community a safe, healthy and happy place to live. As part of their learning in English, Health and HASS, students have been exploring the important roles of people who help us every day.

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Our Preps have been discovering how Police Officers, Firefighters, Doctors and Paramedics support our community and keep us safe. They have been learning about what these amazing helpers do, the places they work and why their jobs are so important.  

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As part of their HASS learning, students have also been working hard to identify special places in our community. They are creating their own 3D town maps, identifying where important community services are located throughout the Ingham district. They are developing their understanding of our local community and how different places and services work together to support the people who live here.

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This learning provides our Prep students with valuable opportunities to recognise and appreciate the extra-special people in our community and understand the important work they do to help us live safe and healthy lives.

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We are so proud of the curiosity, enthusiasm and creativity our Preps are showing as they discover more about the wonderful community we get to live in!

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