As we step into 2026, I want to take a moment to refect on the festive spirit of the Christmas and New Year season while welcoming our teachers and students back to school. This time of year is not only about celebration but also about new beginnings and the opportunities that lie ahead in education. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated educators who play a vital role in shaping the future of our young minds. It’s also important to acknowledge a signifcant milestone for our community. Tis marks one year since the devastating weather event that impacted our shire, the worst we have faced since 1967. During this challenging time, I have been truly inspired by the resilience and determination of our residents. Together, we have worked tirelessly to rebuild and support one another. We acknowledged the community with a Flood Heroes Recognition at Australia Day, as well as our Australia Day award recipients — congratulations to all. However, we must remember that the journey is not yet complete. Many of our residents are still facing challenges, with some yet to return to their homes. As we move forward, we must continue to show compassion and solidarity, ensuring that everyone in our community has the support they need. Let us embrace the new school year as well as our business community with hope and enthusiasm while remaining committed to rebuilding and revitalising our beloved shire. Together, we can create a brighter future for all. Wishing everyone a successful and fulflling year ahead!

Yanks Jetty, managed by Hinchinbrook Shire Council, is both a historical landmark and a gateway to some of the most stunning turquoise waters around Orpheus Island? Located on the south-west side of Orpheus Island of the Hinchinbrook coast, Yanks Jetty sits above crystal-clear tropical seas on the edge of the Great Barrier Reef — waters prized for snorkelling, marine life and colourful coral just a short swim from the pontoon. Te jetty’s name comes from its role in World War II when the site hosted a degaussing (demagnetising) station used by American naval vessels to reduce their magnetic signatures and protect them from mines. Over the years it has endured storms and cyclones, including signifcant damage from Cyclone Yasi, and has been repaired and restored. Today, Yanks Jetty is a beloved destination for day visitors, boaters and campers, blending rich wartime history with breathtaking natural beauty.

With 2026 now in full swing, In early 2025, QFF and industry partners Crisis Communications Queensland Farmers’ Feder-welcomed the reinstatement of the 80:20 Training Program and ation (QFF) President, Aaron funding split for works on the Bruce High-SmartAg Queensland, Kiely, took a moment to reflect on the way, with Kiely highlighting QFF’s role on with Kiely noting wel­challenges and the opportunities that de-the Bruce Highway Advisory Council and coming Premier David fined regional agriculture across the state planned involvement in any future proj-Crisafulli MP to the in 2025. ects. 2025 National Agricul­ture Day Breakfast as a
“As we begin a new year, it’s worth reflect-Kiely also remembered the catastroph­highly memorable mo­ing on the challenges and opportunities ic floods that devastated the West and
ment.
that defined Queensland agriculture in Far North, as well as QFF’s momentous 2025 - a year marked by strong engage-achievement of redefining “primary pro-“2026 will be an import-a new CEO,” Kiely said.
ment, meaningful reform and close col-ducer” to expand access to disaster assis-ant year for our members, with CANE­laboration across our members, produc-tance and allow crop replacement to be GROWERS marking 100 years, Cotton “QFF looks forward to working with our ers, industry partners and government,” included in disaster grants. Several other Australia’s Cotton Conference returning members to drive a productive and resil­he said. projects were spotlighted including the to the Gold Coast, and QFVG welcoming ient future for Queensland agriculture.”

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QFF President, Aaron Kiely, is looking forward to
To A Resilient 2026 a prosperous 2026. Photo credit: Shutterstock

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Applications for the fourth round of the Traceability Grants Program will close on 18 February 2026, giving farmers, producers, and industry groups just two weeks left to secure funding.
The program, part of the National Agricultur­al Traceability Strategy 2023–2033, supports collaborative projects that enhance traceability systems in Australian agriculture over the first five years of the strategy.
The Australian Government has committed $4 million to this round, offering grants ranging from $50,000 to $500,000 for projects that:
Align processes and technology to collect data that meets regulatory requirements and pro­vides valuable feedback to farmers.
Support industry adoption of interoperable traceability systems.
Implement communication and education campaigns to boost awareness of agricultural traceability.
Improve systems that track and trace agricul­tural products through export supply chains.
Help exporters remain competitive in global markets.
Encourage more farmers and processors—par­ticularly those handling high-value products— to explore exporting.
Ensure cost-effective solutions by using existing systems and technology wherever possible.
The Traceability Grants Program is part of a broader effort to modernise Australia’s agri­cultural supply chains, providing farmers with the tools to meet regulatory standards while ex­panding opportunities in international markets.
For more information and to apply, visit the Traceability Grants Program website before the deadline on 18 February 2026.

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Feral pig and woody weed control programs are beginning in the Herbert catchment as Terrain NRM and its partners intensify efforts to improve water quality in a river system extending from west of Mt Garnet to the floodplain around Ingham.

Five projects are now being rolled out as the first stage of the Herbert Integrated Project’s on-ground works, and Terrain NRM Project Manager Fiona Barron said there were more to follow. One of the first is a feral pig management initiative led by Hinchinbrook Shire Council.

“Feral pigs are a major problem for the environment and also for the sugar cane industry and other farming industries in the Herbert,” Ms Barron said. “Pigs churn up soil and vegetation and damage wetlands and riverbanks, which releases nutrients and can spread pathogens.”

Hinchinbrook Shire Council will build on an existing control program by using emerging surveillance and control technologies, including AI-enabled cameras. A remote-triggering feral-tech trap door will also be trialled near a coastal community where traditional systems have been unsuccessful.

In the upper Herbert, stakeholders identified the thickening of invasive woody weeds, such as lantana, as a priority.

“Dense thickets of woody weeds are a problem for graziers because they lead to less soil protection and pasture,” Ms Barron said.

“Part of the project will involve working with graziers on trials of different burn approaches at different times of the year to determine the most effective way of tackling woody weeds so that we can share best practice with other landholders.”

Other projects include developing a whole-of-catchment management plan, supporting cane farmers through integrated whole-of-farm planning led by Herbert Cane Productivity Services Ltd, and synthesising past and present water quality monitoring data to better understand what’s happening across the catchment and help farmers and the wider community. There will also be a focus on circular economy opportunities and natural capital capacity-building within the Herbert catchment area.

Ms Barron said the Herbert Integrated Project was being driven by the community, and Terrain NRM was working with a wide range of partners and community groups.

“We have engaged widely with stakeholders across the upper and lower Herbert catchment to understand how the catchment can be managed as one integrated system - to not only improve water quality but also deliver broader community and landscape benefits,” she said.

“For over a decade, farmers and the agricultural sector have achieved substantial reductions in nutrient, pesticide and sediment runoff to the Reef through improved land management. This new investment will extend that and explore more opportunities to generate social and economic benefits for the community.

“The Queensland Government is investing in place-based approaches to reef water quality, which means the people who live and work in the catchment and who know the landscape best are helping to shape the initiatives we deliver — and viewing the catchment as one connected system.

“Because the project is community-driven, we can also leverage this investment to deliver social and economic co-benefits for the local community and First Nations people. It will help to create a legacy of stewardship for the future.

“A healthier, more sustainable catchment is better for everyone.”

The Herbert Integrated Project is funded through the Queensland Government’s Queensland Reef Water Quality Program and delivered by Terrain NRM in partnership with many stakeholders, including Hinchinbrook Shire Council, Herbert Cane Productivity Services Ltd, Canegrowers and TropWATER. Find out more about the Herbert Integrated Project here: https://terrain.org.au/what-we-do/waterway-health/herbert-integrated-project/

Find out more about the Queensland Government’s placed-based integrated projects here: https://www.qld.gov.au/environment/agriculture/sustainable-farming/reef/reef-major-projects

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New research from James Cook University (JCU) has revealed that epaulette sharks — often called “walking sharks” — can reproduce and lay eggs without any measurable increase in energy use, challenging long-held assumptions about animal biology.

The study, published in Biology Open, was led by JCU’s shark physiology research team under Professor Jodie Rummer and focused on the metabolic costs of reproduction in epaulette sharks.

“Reproduction is the ultimate investment … you are literally building new life from scratch,” Prof Rummer said.

“We expected that when sharks make this complex egg, their energy use would shoot up. But there was no uptick in energy use, it was completely flat.”

While reproduction is typically considered a high-energy process, this is the first time researchers have directly measured the metabolic cost of egg laying in sharks. The findings suggest epaulette sharks have evolved a unique physiological efficiency.

“These sharks appear to have adapted their physiology to be able to optimise their energy use,” Prof Rummer said.

“This work challenges the narrative that when things go wrong — such as warming oceans — that reproduction will be the first thing to go.”

Epaulette sharks usually produce two eggs every three weeks, with peak laying occurring between September and December. The research team monitored five female sharks before, during and after egg encapsulation in temperature-controlled tanks at JCU’s Marine and Aquaculture Research Facility in Townsville.

Lead author and recent JCU PhD graduate Dr Carolyn Wheeler said oxygen uptake, blood chemistry and hormone levels remained stable throughout the process.

“Under environmental stress many species will choose between survival and reproduction, but the epaulette shark might be able to continue to produce eggs,” Dr Wheeler said.

“That’s encouraging, because healthy sharks equal healthy reefs.”

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Legislative changes to the Spanish mackerel harvest strategy are now in effect for recreational fishers, while new rules for commercial fishers commence on 1 February 2026.

The Government says the changes are based on science and aim to put more iconic Spanish mackerel back on plates across Queensland. This year’s stock assessment found the population has likely increased to 34 per cent of un-fished biomass, allowing for higher catch limits.

For recreational fishers, the boat limit has increased from two to four Spanish mackerel per boat, while the individual bag limit remains at one per person. Commercial fishers will see the annual allowable catch rise from 165 tonnes to 250 tonnes – a 51.5 per cent increase. A new biomass target of 48 per cent has also been set to ensure sustainability into the future.

Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett said the changes were informed by data.

“As a government, to ensure sustainable fishing continues into the future, we must make our decisions based on the facts – and that’s what we’ve done here,” he said.

“We estimate this increase to the annual commercial catch limit will boost the Queensland economy by approximately $3.5 million in gross value of production. That means more jobs for Queenslanders and more Spanish mack on plates around the state, whether that be at home or showcased across our world-class tourism and hospitality sectors.”

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Australian freshwater fish are far more adventurous eaters than once believed, with new research revealing many species regularly snack on food that comes from beyond the water’s edge.

A study published in Freshwater Biology has found around half of Australia’s native freshwater fish rely on land-derived food sources such as fruits, insects and other invertebrates, with many unable to survive on aquatic food alone.

“No one has ever tried to determine the reliance of freshwater fish on terrestrial-derived diets at this scale, either in Australia or globally,” said James Cook University TropWATER researcher Dr Aaron Davis.

“Australia has famously nutrient-poor soils, so terrestrial inputs play a critical role in adding energy into freshwater ecosystems that fish wouldn't otherwise have access to.”

Researchers from Griffith University and The University of Western Australia analysed dietary data from 137 native freshwater fish species, examining how species type and climate influence feeding behaviour.

The study found terrestrial invertebrates such as insects, worms and spiders were an important food source for around a quarter of the species studied, particularly jollytails and rainbowfish. Fruit consumption was especially common among grunters and fork-tail catfish, with significantly higher intake recorded in northern Australia’s wet–dry tropics.

“For many of our native fish, aquatic food sources aren’t always consistently available,” Dr Davis said.

“So being able to take advantage of food that falls into the water from surrounding land vegetation makes sound evolutionary sense.”

The findings highlight the importance of protecting riverside vegetation, with Dr Davis noting freshwater fish are among the most threatened animals globally and rely heavily on healthy riparian ecosystems for survival.

The Queensland Government has updated its crocodile management zones in the Cassowary Coast and Hinchinbrook regions as part of its ongoing effort to protect communities while conserving estuarine crocodiles.

The revisions are part of the Queensland Crocodile Management Plan (QCMP), a framework that identifies risks, supports public safety, and guides consistent crocodile management across the state. Estuarine crocodiles, also known as saltwater crocodiles, are a protected species but can pose significant dangers to humans.

In the Cassowary Coast, Warrina Lakes Community Parklands has been re-zoned as a Targeted Crocodile Removal Zone. This means all crocodiles two metres or larger, and any crocodile displaying dangerous behaviour, are targeted for removal to reduce the risk to visitors.

Meanwhile, in Hinchinbrook, the two front ponds of the Tyto Wetlands have been re-zoned as an Active Removal Zone due to their proximity to a children’s playground and visitor centre. In Active Removal Zones, all estuarine crocodiles—regardless of size or behaviour—are targeted for removal, with the goal of significantly reducing human-crocodile interactions in high-use areas.

The QCMP uses a zoning system to determine management actions based on local risks. Zones include Active Removal, Targeted Crocodile Removal, General Management, and Reportable Removal. Decisions consider crocodile size, behaviour, and location to determine whether a crocodile is classified as a “problem crocodile.”

The plan also supports the long-running Be Crocwise public safety program, which educates communities on safe behaviours in crocodile habitat. Residents are reminded that crocodile removal does not guarantee an area is free of crocodiles, and personal vigilance remains essential.

The Queensland Government encourages community feedback during its annual consultation period, ensuring local input helps shape safe and effective management strategies.

For more information on crocodile safety and reporting sightings, visit the Queensland Government’s Be Crocwise website.

Queensland fisheries officers are continuing to clamp down on illegal mud crabbing activity, with a recent Bundaberg prosecution highlighting the serious penalties facing those who flout the rules.

A Bundaberg man was fined $20,000 after Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol (QBFP) officers uncovered 26 offences under the Fisheries Act 1994, including the unlawful sale and trafficking of mud crabs. Surveillance footage and a seized mobile phone revealed evidence of ongoing illegal sales to multiple buyers across the region.

The man was found in possession of 14 female mud crabs and multiple undersized crabs, with fishing equipment later forfeited.

Authorities say the case is just one example of widespread enforcement action across the state. Since 12 May 2025, QBFP has recorded more than $61,100 in major penalties and court prosecutions for mud crab offences, along with $85,699 in on-the-spot Fisheries Infringement Notices issued statewide.

Other recent cases include a Cairns fisher fined $12,000 with his boat seized and destroyed for interfering with crab pots, a fisher in Ayr fined for obstructing officers and failing to mark crab pots correctly, and a Brisbane fisher fined $12,000 after being caught with female and undersized mud crabs.

Queensland’s fisheries rules include strict minimum and maximum size limits, possession limits, closed seasons and no-take species across tidal waters. Fishers are reminded that possession limits are not daily limits and include any catch on the boat, on shore, in a vehicle or at home, including fish stored in freezers.

Under the rules, any undersized, oversized, no-take or closed-season species must be returned to the water immediately using best-practice catch and release techniques. Fish must also be measured using approved methods, and skin cannot be removed while on board.

Crustaceans, including mud crabs and blue swimmer crabs, must be kept whole with shells and claws attached, and female crabs are strictly protected. Similar regulations apply to fin fish, sharks, rays, shellfish and bait species, with additional rules for coral reef fin fish and closed waters.

Department of Primary Industries Deputy Director-General Fisheries and Forestry Pauline Jacob said additional patrol resources were strengthening enforcement across Queensland.

“Whether it's interfering with crab pots, taking undersized or female crabs or engaging in unlawful trade, no offence goes unnoticed and our staff are ready to take action,” Ms Jacob said.

“The message is simple, and the consequences are real—if you lift someone else's pots or take crabs outside the rules, you will be caught and face serious penalties."

Ms Jacob states the laws and regulations could not be clearer.

"Follow the rules or risk losing your boat, your gear and a lot of money," she said.

“Queenslanders value their seafood and sustainable fisheries. These laws are in place to protect that resource for everyone and ensure all anglers have a positive experience on the water.”

Local fishers are reminded to familiarise themselves with current size and possession limits and to use official resources such as the Qld Fishing 2.0 app to stay informed and compliant.

With the start of the new school term, police from Highway Patrol and general duties have increased their presence in local school zones to help keep students, parents and teachers safe during peak drop-off and pick-up times.

Officers are stationed at schools at the beginning and end of each day to monitor traffic and address dangerous behaviours, including speeding, drink and drug driving, and parking offences. Speeding fines in school zones range from $333 to $1,919, with drivers facing between one and eight demerit points depending on the offence.

Police are urging parents and caregivers to take extra care when driving through school zones, reminding motorists to slow down, remain alert and use designated pick-up and drop-off areas wherever possible.

Drivers are also being asked to respect school crossing supervisors (lollypop men and ladies), who volunteer their time to help children and families cross roads safely.

Police say small decisions behind the wheel can have serious consequences and are reminding motorists that school zones are active environments where patience and caution are essential.

(Contributed with thanks by the Ingham Police Station)

Hinchinbrook Shire Council advises that an aerial drop of mosquito briquettes will be carried out from Tuesday, 3 February 2026, weather permitting, across the coastal wetlands at Forrest Beach, Taylors Beach, and Lucinda.

These treatments are part of Council’s ongoing mosquito control program and are specifically designed to target mosquito larvae.

In addition to these measures, Council continues to implement mosquito control across Council-managed land and selected Unallocated State Land to reduce mosquito-related nuisance and minimise the risk of mosquito-borne diseases.

While Council is actively managing public areas, residents are reminded of their responsibility under the Public Health Regulation to prevent mosquitoes from breeding on their property.

Simple actions can make a big difference:
Empty any containers holding water to stop mosquitoes from breeding;
Install and maintain fly screens, bed nets, and keep yards tidy to remove potential mosquito habitats;
Use natural repellents like mosquito-repelling plants and essential oils and consider using mosquito traps or zappers for additional protection;
Fans can also help, as mosquitoes are weak fliers; and
Treat non-drainable water sources with approved larvicides, ensure swimming pools are clean and properly chlorinated, and keep bin lids tightly closed to prevent water accumulation.

Council and our coastal communities can reduce the mosquito population by working together. For further information, please contact Council via email council@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au or phone (07) 4776 4600.

As the wet season continues across Queensland, motorists are being reminded to take road closure signs and floodwater warnings seriously, with authorities stressing that flooded roads pose significant and often hidden dangers.

During periods of heavy rainfall, the Department of Transport and Main Roads works alongside local councils to monitor road networks and ensure the safety of motorists. When flooding occurs, roads can quickly become unsafe, with water concealing washed-out sections of road, debris, and other hazards that are not visible from the driver’s seat.

According to Get Ready Queensland, driving into floodwater remains one of the leading causes of flood-related deaths across the state. While vehicles are designed to keep people safe on dry roads, they offer little protection once water is involved — regardless of the type of vehicle or a driver’s experience.

Even shallow floodwater can cause critical vehicle systems to fail. Steering can become powerless, engines and electrics can stop working, and traction can be lost in as little as 15 centimetres of water, causing vehicles to be swept away. Floodwater pressure can also prevent doors and windows from opening, making escape extremely difficult.

When water levels reach a point deemed unsafe, roads are officially closed using designated signage. These closures are put in place to protect motorists and reduce the need for emergency rescues. Motorists who ignore road closure signs can face fines of up to $233 and incur three demerit points.

Authorities urge drivers to plan ahead, check local disaster dashboards and road conditions before travelling, and never attempt to drive through floodwater. The message remains clear: If it’s flooded, forget it.

For emergency assistance, contact Police, Fire or Ambulance services by calling Triple Zero (000). For more flood safety advice and preparedness resources, visit the Get Ready Queensland website.

The Queensland Police Service (QPS) are appealing for public assistance to help locate a number of vehicles stolen across Far North Queensland in the past month, as part of the latest Vehicle Watch update.

According to Queensland Police, at least 69 vehicles have been reported stolen across the region so far in January, with the same number recorded for the year to date. In comparison, 808 vehicles were stolen across the Far North in 2025.

Among the most recent thefts is a blue 2009 Audi A6-C7, Queensland registration 102OX8, stolen from Woree on 25 January. A silver 2018 Toyota Corolla, registration 756XXC, was also stolen from Atherton on the same day.

Police are also searching for a silver 2011 Hyundai i20, registration 635ZNQ, stolen from White Rock on 23 January, and a blue 2008 Hyundai Getz, registration 504ZNQ, stolen from Westcourt on 24 January.

Several other vehicles, including cars, dual cab utilities, motorcycles, quad bikes and a campervan, have been reported stolen from locations including Cairns City, Thursday Island, Babinda, Mareeba and Gordonvale throughout January and late December.

QPS have recently launched an Active Stolen Vehicle Public Portal, allowing members of the public to view up-to-date information about stolen vehicles.

Authorities are reminding residents to take simple steps to reduce the risk of vehicle theft, including removing valuables from vehicles, ensuring vehicles are locked, not leaving spare keys inside cars, securing keys out of sight, and making sure homes are properly secured.

Anyone with information that may assist police is urged to contact Policelink via the online suspicious activity form at police.qld.gov.au/reporting. Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at crimestoppersqld.com.au.

Anyone contacting police is asked to quote reference numbers QP2600169582, QP2600158919, QP2600146527 or QP2600151299.

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Residents are reminded that sand and sandbags remain available for those wishing to make their own preparations.

Community members can still access sand and sandbags at the following locations:
Cordelia – Carr’s Farm
Halifax – Lancini’s Farm Shed, Scott Street
Lucinda – Lions Park, Patterson Parade (near the Coastguard)
Taylors Beach – Progress Park
Forrest Beach – Near the water tower and skate park

Residents are encouraged to keep any existing sandbags in place and store unused sandbags in a dry area to ensure they remain intact, as they deteriorate quickly when wet.

Sandbags remain a key component of wet‑season preparedness.

Even if they are ultimately not required, having them ready provides protection and reassurance while weather conditions continue to evolve.

The Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) continues to actively monitor weather conditions and associated risks.

The LDMG thanks residents for their continued preparedness, cooperation, and community support.

(Contributed with thanks by Mayor Ramon Jayo, Chair of the Hinchinbrook Local Disaster Management)