Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
By Victoria Velton Seventy-five years of history and service were commemorated in Ingham last Saturday, as the 103 Squadron of the Australian Air Force Cadets celebrated its three-quarter-century anniversary with a special dinner at the Herbert River RSL, bringing together generations of cadets and supporters. The 75th Anniversary Dinner was a significant occasion for the squadron, welcoming current cadets and their families alongside former cadets, past members and special guests who travelled to Ingham to mark the occasion. Among the guests were visiting representatives from the Australian Army and Royal Australian Navy, adding to the significance of the celebration and highlighting the strong connections the Australian Air Force Cadets share with the wider Australian Defence Force. For the current generation of cadets, the evening provided an opportunity to meet people who have served in uniform and hear from those who have been part of the squadron and its history over the decades. Just as importantly, former cadets returned to support the young people who are now following in their footsteps. Instructors, volunteers, parents and supporters were all recognised. Event organiser Simone Lennox said the celebration was the culmination of several weeks of planning, organising, printing and chasing up the many details needed to bring such a significant event together. “There were plenty of late nights, last-minute changes and stressful moments, but we did it,” Simone said. For a youth organisation with such a long history in the community, the presence of ex-cadets was particularly meaningful, demonstrating the endurance of friendships, experiences and lessons gained through the program. The evening also featured displays and memorabilia reflecting the squadron’s history, helping to bring together stories from its past with the work being carried out by its current members. Special commemorative pieces were also created for the occasion, with current Cadet Unit Officer Saxon Crabb and former CUO/LAC Corey Crabb working together to create 75th Anniversary 3D-printed pieces giving guests a unique reminder of the milestone. Simone thanked Erin and Sandra for their work in helping organise the celebration, as well as the Herbert River Sub Branch RSL for hosting the event. Bec from Budget Colour Copies was also recognised for her help with the extensive printing, scanning and last-minute jobs required in the lead-up to the dinner. “Seeing everyone there, catching up, sharing stories and enjoying the night made all the work worthwhile,” Simone said. After 75 years, the anniversary was a celebration of the people who have been part of 103 Squadron, the memories created along the way and the young cadets who are now carrying that tradition into the future. Caption: Photo credits: Victoria Velton Generations of 103 Squadron members, ex-103 cadets and visiting officials and representatives gathered at the Herbert River RSL for the 75th celebration. The current Ingham 103 Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets. Current 103 Squadron leaders, ex-103 cadets, alongside visiting officials and representatives from the broader Australian Defence Force. The current members and leaders of the Ingham 103 Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets. All attendees enjoying their time at the 75th celebration. Extras to put online: Extra 1. The current Ingham 103 Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets and family table. Extra 2. The Ex-Ingham 103 Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets and family table. Extra 3. The visiting dignitaries and officials table.
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Ingham’s own Mick’s Bread Kitchen has cooked up a spectacular result on the national stage, taking home two gold medals at the 2026 Official Great Aussie Pie Competition. The bakery’s Smoked Brisket Pie and Pork Pie both claimed gold, with the brisket creation developed by Mick’s daughter, Monique Toichev. The bakery entered four pies in the prestigious competition, with its Ned Kelly Pie also taking silver and its Plain Pie earning bronze. The four-medal haul has given the local team plenty to celebrate, with Monique saying the recognition was the result of hard work and a commitment to perfecting every part of the pie.
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By Sian Bantock One of Mission Beach’s signature endurance events took place on Sunday 6th September as Cassowary Coast Multisport Club (CCMC)’s Ona Mission challenged competitors across three disciplines: paddling, running and cycling. The event drew competitors of all ages and abilities, each pushing themselves past their limits to complete the course. Participants tackled the event individually or in teams, beginning with a 4km paddle-over to the iconic Dunk Island, before a 6km trail run and 30km cycle, finishing with a 6km run along the region's tropical beaches. Calm seas made for great paddling conditions, though rising temperatures ensured the athletes were working hard under the tropical sun. CCMC Club President Richard Blanchette was overjoyed with the turnout. “Wow Mission Beach! Superb day for Ona Mission 2026 with participants paddling, riding and running along the beach,” he said.
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Locals are being encouraged to grab their rods and help tackle one of the region’s invasive pests when the annual Tilapia Tournament returns to Warrina Lakes during the October school holidays. Cassowary Coast Regional Council will host the free, family-friendly fishing competition from Thursday 1st October to Saturday 3rd October, combining a day out for the community with an important effort to protect local waterways and native aquatic life. The tournament challenges participants to catch and remove Tilapia, an invasive pest fish capable of rapidly establishing large populations and outcompeting native species. Tilapia feed on plants, insects and small native fish and can produce hundreds of young in a single season. Their nesting behaviour can also stir up mud and damage important habitat for native fish and other aquatic species. Fortunately for competitors, the pest fish are relatively easy to catch and will take a variety of bait, including corn, bread, worms and pellets. Cassowary Coast Mayor Teresa Millwood said every fish removed during the tournament would contribute to improving the health of the local ecosystem. “The Tilapia Tournament is a fantastic opportunity for locals and visitors to get involved in protecting our waterways while enjoying a free, family-friendly event during the school holidays,” Cr Millwood said. “Every Tilapia removed from Warrina Lakes helps reduce the pressure on our native species and improves the health of our local ecosystem. I encourage everyone to come along, register and be part of this important community effort.” The tournament is open to all ages, although children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. Participants are encouraged to bring their own fishing gear, hat, sunscreen, water bottle and camping chair, with prizes also up for grabs throughout the event. Entry is free, however registration is essential. Further information and registration details are available through the Cassowary Coast Regional Council website. CAPTION: The annual Tilapia Tournament will return to Warrina Lakes this October. Photo supplied by Cassowary Coast Regional Council
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We were thrilled to see locals picking up a copy of our first edition of Cassowary Life. Pictured are our very first readers – two lovely gentlemen from the men’s shed in Tully
Thanks for the warm welcome, Cassowary Coast!
The Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre trades team hard at work. Photo supplied
by Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre
When we think about housing, it's easy to think simply about having a roof over our heads. However, safe and stable housing plays a much bigger role in our lives than many people realise.
A secure home provides more than shelter. It offers safety, stability, privacy, connection to community, and a foundation from which individuals and families can thrive. Stable housing supports physical and mental wellbeing, helps children succeed at school, enables people to maintain employment, and provides a sense of belonging and security.
Unfortunately, rising living costs, limited housing availability and changing life circumstances continue to place pressure on many households. For some people, maintaining suitable housing can become increasingly difficult, while others may find themselves facing housing insecurity or homelessness through no fault of their own.
At Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre, we understand that everyone's circumstances are different. Our Housing and Homelessness Services support individuals and families who are experiencing homelessness or are at risk of becoming homeless. Our goal is to help people achieve greater self-reliance, independence and housing stability.
HCSC also provides long-term housing options for eligible low-income families, as well as one and two-bedroom units for individuals and couples aged over 55 years.
Maintaining a safe home environment is another important part of housing stability. Through our Home and Yard Maintenance Social Enterprise, HCSC provides comprehensive household maintenance services throughout the Hinchinbrook region. The service supports community housing providers, local welfare and community organisations, and householders who are frail, living with disability, or experiencing economic disadvantage.
Simple tasks such as yard maintenance, minor household works and property upkeep can make a significant difference to safety, accessibility and quality of life, particularly for older community members and those facing barriers to maintaining their homes independently.
Whether someone needs support to maintain their housing, access suitable accommodation, or keep their home safe and functional, assistance may be available.
If you would like to learn more about HCSC's Housing and Homelessness Services or Home and Yard Maintenance Social Enterprise, we encourage you to contact our team for further information.
Because everyone deserves the security, dignity and peace of mind that comes with having a safe place to call home.
While this month we focus on the importance of safe and stable housing, next month we will take a closer look at the growing housing and homelessness challenges affecting communities across Australia, including regional areas such as our Hinchinbrook region.
In recognition of Homelessness Awareness Week, we will explore the realities of housing insecurity, the impact homelessness can have on individuals and families, and the support services available within our community.
We will also be sharing information about HCSC's upcoming Homelessness event in August, which will bring together services and organisations to provide information, support and connection for community members seeking assistance or wanting to learn more about housing and homelessness issues.
We encourage community members to keep an eye out for next month's article for further details.
Mark Spina is the Director of Ingham Real Estate. Photo sourced: Inghamrealestate.com
Mark Spina has built a long career in real estate, bringing decades of experience and a long-standing commitment to helping people buy, sell, rent and manage property throughout the Hinchinbrook region.
As Director of Ingham Real Estate, Mark has been working in the industry since 1999, beginning his career as a Real Estate Salesperson in Hervey Bay. In 2007, Mark and his wife returned home to Ingham and purchased Ingham Real Estate, continuing to build a trusted local business.
Mark and his team assist clients across all areas of property sales and property management, working with a wide range of properties and people throughout the region.
He builds trust with his clients, focusing on clear conversations and strong relationships throughout each transaction.
“Working one on one with Sellers and Buyers, Landlords and Tenants with open communication”
Mark said the team at Ingham Real Estate appreciates everyone who has chosen to work with them over the years.
“We would like to thank all past and future Sellers, Buyers, Landlords and Tenants for choosing to deal with Ingham Real Estate. Big or Small, we Rent and Sell em’ all.”
Mark believes the Hinchinbrook Shire remains a great place for those looking to take their first step into the property market.
“The Hinchinbrook Shire is a fantastic place to purchase a first home. There are still affordable properties to purchase and it’s a great place to raise a family.”
E-Mobility Laws have now been introduced to make Queenslanders safer. Photo sourced: Shutterstock
New e-mobility laws will come into effect across Queensland from 1st July, introducing stronger rules and enforcement powers aimed at reducing dangerous behaviours involving e-scooters and e-bikes.
The new laws will give Queensland Police additional powers to tackle illegal and high-powered devices, including the ability to seize and destroy devices that do not comply with safety requirements.
Under the reforms, e-bikes and scooters capable of exceeding 25km/h without assistance will be banned, while a 12km/h speed limit will apply in areas where riders are travelling near pedestrians.
Police will also have the power to conduct random breath testing for riders in public places from 1st July. Riders found over the 0.05 blood alcohol limit will face fines of more than $500, with maximum court penalties of up to $6,908.
Higher penalties will also apply for offences including speeding, failing to wear a helmet, careless riding, illegally carrying passengers and riding Personal Mobility Devices on prohibited roads.
The laws will also introduce licensing requirements for riders, with exemptions available for people with medical conditions or disabilities. Riders aged 12 to 17 will be able to use e-mobility devices under parental supervision from 31st August, while parents may be held accountable if children under 16 are found riding illegally.
The reforms follow growing community concerns around illegal and high-powered e-mobility devices and aim to create clearer rules around who can ride, what devices can be used, where they can travel and how fast they can go.
The changes were informed by community feedback and expert consultation, with the goal of improving safety while allowing responsible e-mobility use to continue.
More information can be found on the Queensland Government’s website.
Senior Sugar Trader Peter Bingham (second from left) is excited to meet with growers and share insights into global sugar markets during Wilmar's Global Traders Roadshow this week. Photo supplied
Simon Hood
Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing
June is shaping up to be a busy month, and we look forward to catching up with growers across our milling regions through a range of events and activities.
This week, our Global Traders Roadshow returns, bringing together Wilmar's global trading experts and local Grower Marketing team to discuss the latest developments in sugar and currency markets. These sessions provide a valuable opportunity to hear directly from the people monitoring global markets every day, while also asking questions about pricing options and current market conditions. We are looking forward to connecting with those of you who have put their name down to attend.
We're also reminding growers that nominations for the 2027 Managed Pool Plus close on 30 June. If you've been considering the pool, now is the time to act.
The Managed Pool Plus is designed for growers seeking a longer-term approach to pricing in volatile markets, with active management across both sugar and currency markets. The 2025 season has highlighted the value of this strategy, with the pool delivering a result above the seasonal average, demonstrating the benefits of disciplined pricing over an extended window rather than relying on short-term market movements. While past performance is never a guarantee of future returns, the result reinforces the value of having experienced market specialists actively managing price risk through changing market conditions.
If you'd like to learn more before nominations close, speak with your local Grower Marketing Relationship Manager or catch us at one of the Global Traders Roadshow events.
Beyond the markets, we're proud to continue supporting the local communities that support our industry. Throughout June, Wilmar Grower Marketing is once again sponsoring several regional events, including the Sarina Tractor Pull, Proserpine Cane Awards and Ingham Tractor Pull.
These events celebrate the people who make our industry what it is and provide a great opportunity for families, growers and the wider community to come together. We look forward to seeing many familiar faces, celebrating another season and continuing the conversations that matter most to our growers.
We hope to see you at one of our roadshow sessions or community events over the coming weeks.
Congratulations to Sam on her selection in the Queensland Referees Team for the 16–18 Years Touch Football Championships.
The achievement recognises Sam’s dedication, professionalism and strong understanding of the game, as well as her commitment to officiating at a high level.
Representing Queensland is a significant honour and a testament to the hard work Sam has invested in her refereeing journey.
The school community is incredibly proud of her accomplishment and wishes her all the best at the championships.
Dog owners across the Cassowary Coast have a range of designated off-leash areas available to exercise and socialise their pets, with Council highlighting the importance of responsible use to keep both animals and the community safe.
Cassowary Coast Regional Council has established off-leash spaces in Cardwell, Tully Heads, Tully, South Mission Beach, Wongaling Beach, Mission Beach, Kurrimine Beach, Innisfail and Cowley Beach, providing residents and visitors with accessible locations to let their dogs roam under full control.
The designated areas, including popular spots such as Coral Sea Park in Cardwell, Wildsoet Park in Tully, and Wrights Park in Innisfail, are designed to support healthy lifestyles for pets and owners while also helping reduce conflict in sensitive environmental and wildlife areas.
Council notes that dog off-leash areas are an important community asset, offering opportunities for physical activity, social interaction and improved wellbeing when used responsibly.
Dog owners are reminded that even in off-leash areas, animals must remain under control and respond to commands such as recall. Owners are also required to ensure dogs are not causing a nuisance to others, and that all waste is collected and disposed of appropriately.
Additional responsibilities include ensuring dogs are registered with Council, regularly wormed and kept up to date with vaccinations.
Council encourages residents to follow the Cassowary Coast Good Dog Owners Guide to help maintain safe, enjoyable and well-managed spaces for all users.
For more information or enquiries, residents can contact Cassowary Coast Regional Council on 1300 763 903 or via enquiries@cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au.
A planned hazard reduction burn will be carried out at Dallachy Aerodrome in Cardwell from 23rd June, weather permitting, as part of ongoing fire management efforts across the Cassowary Coast.
The operation is being undertaken by Cassowary Coast Regional Council in partnership with Girringun Aboriginal Corporation and the Queensland Fire Department (Rural Fire Service).
The planned burn aims to restore grassland and maintain healthy habitat, reduce bushfire risk to the aerodrome and surrounding infrastructure, and create a mosaic of burnt and unburnt areas to support both environmental and fire management outcomes.
Residents in Cardwell, Kennedy Valley and surrounding areas may notice smoke during the operation, with visibility potentially affected along the Bruce Highway. Motorists are advised to drive with caution if smoke is present.
Authorities are advising residents to keep windows and doors closed during periods of smoke and to ensure those with respiratory conditions have necessary medication on hand. The public is also reminded not to enter closed areas while operations are underway.
For updates on planned burns across Queensland, visit www.fire.qld.gov.au/prepare/bushfire/permit-to-burn-map.
Coastal recovery works have entered the next phase across the Cassowary Coast. Photo source: Cassowary Coast Regional Council
Coastal recovery efforts are continuing across the Cassowary Coast, with revegetation works now underway at Cardwell, South Mission Beach and Wongaling Beach following the completion of sand nourishment projects earlier this year.
Cassowary Coast Regional Council announced the next stage of recovery will involve planting coastal vines, selected shade trees and undertaking vegetation management to help strengthen and protect local shorelines.
The plants, grown by Council in partnership with C4 – Community for Coastal and Cassowary Conservation, will play a key role in stabilising dunes, reducing erosion, supporting wildlife habitats and helping beaches recover more quickly from future weather events.
The works have been welcomed by some community members, with one resident describing the project as a “great initiative to replant the foreshore with natives” and noting that native coastal species could help reduce erosion during future cyclones and severe weather events.
Council has reminded residents to remove any personal items from foreshore areas to allow the works to be completed safely and efficiently.
The recovery program is being delivered with assistance from the Australian and Queensland Governments through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.
In May Wayde Chiesa MP met with Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Brent Mickelberg, in Townsville to reaffirm the commitment towards the Bruce Highway. Photo source: Facebook
Building the Infrastructure Our Region Deserves
As the State Budget is handed down this week, one thing is clear: regional Queensland needs practical investment in the infrastructure that keeps our communities connected, safe and moving.
For communities across Hinchinbrook, roads are not just lines on a map. They are how families get to school, work and medical appointments. They are how freight moves, how farmers get product to market, how tourists visit our region and how emergency services respond when they are needed most.
For too long, North Queenslanders have felt they have been waiting in line for infrastructure investment, particularly when it comes to the Bruce Highway. This road is the backbone of our region, but many locals know firsthand the frustration of poor road conditions, safety concerns and closures during severe weather.
That is why continued investment in the Bruce Highway is so important. Through the Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program, we are now seeing projects progress across regional Queensland, including sections between Townsville and Ingham, Ingham and Innisfail and Innisfail and Cairns. These works are about improving safety, strengthening flood resilience, and supporting the long-term growth of our region.
Importantly, we must continue pushing for upgrades that matter locally. I have continued to advocate strongly for Gairloch and Seymour crossings, which are critical pieces of infrastructure for our community. Improving reliability, safety and flood resilience on these sections remains a key priority, and I will continue working with the Minister and department to ensure we get the right outcome.
We cannot fix years of underinvestment overnight, but we can get started. My focus is on seeing projects move from discussion and planning into delivery.
Alongside infrastructure, cost-of-living relief also matters for regional families. The recent fall in regional electricity prices is welcome news and another important step in easing pressure on households and small businesses.
Our region deserves infrastructure that matches its contribution to Queensland’s economy. I will keep fighting for better roads, safer crossings, stronger communities, and the investment Hinchinbrook needs to grow. I look forward to updating our community on the budget announcements that matter for Hinchinbrook.
The First 5 Forever program is available through the Cassowary Coast Libraries. Photo supplied
Residents of Kurrimine Beach and Tully Heads are now benefiting from improved digital access following the successful rollout of free community WiFi through Cassowary Coast Library & Museum Services. At Kurrimine, Mayor Millwood and Councillor Trudy Tschui were both in attendance of the rollout announcement, and at Tully Heads Councillor Chis Littlemore and Mayor Millwood where in attendance.
Funded through the Digital Starter Grant Program, part of State Library of Queensland's Regional Digital Development project, the initiative has delivered free community WiFi at both community halls while expanding access to library services, technology support and digital learning opportunities in two of the region's coastal communities.
The project was celebrated through Community WiFi Launch and Library Outreach Days held at Kurrimine Beach Progress Hall and Tully Heads Community Hall, where local residents gathered to explore the new service, connect with library staff and learn more about the wide range of digital resources available through the library.
Families enjoyed Cassowary Kids early literacy sessions, while community members took advantage of one-on-one technology assistance, support accessing online Council services and demonstrations of free eBooks, audiobooks, online learning platformsand other digital resources available through the library.
The initiative was developed in response to the connectivity and access challenges often experienced in smaller coastal and regional communities, where reliable internet access and digital support services can be more difficult to access.
Importantly, the project delivers much more than internet connectivity. Funding has also enabled the creation of a roaming digital outreach kit, allowing Cassowary Coast Library & Museum Services staff to deliver technology programs, digital literacy assistance and library outreach activities beyond traditional library buildings.
The mobile technology will support ongoing outreach in communities with limited connectivity or reduced access to services, including Jumbun and other locations across the Cassowary Coast.
As more everyday services move online, digital inclusion has become increasingly important for community participation. Accessing government services, completing online forms, applying for jobs, communicating with family and friends, managing personal affairs and pursuing lifelong learning all rely on confidence with technology and reliable internet access.
The project aims to improve both access and confidence by providing residents with practical support close to home. Through free community WiFi, local technology assistance and regular outreach visits, community members are empowered to develop digital skills in a welcoming and supportive environment.
The launch events also marked the beginning of ongoing monthly outreach visits to both Kurrimine Beach and Tully Heads. These regular sessions will continue to provide technology support, digital literacy assistance, access to library resources, help navigating online services and opportunities for community connection.
The success of the initiative demonstrates the value of targeted investment in regional communities and highlights the important role libraries play in fostering digital inclusion. By combining infrastructure, outreach and personalised support, the project creates lasting benefits that extend well beyond the installation of WiFi equipment.
Cassowary Coast Library & Museum Services would like to thank State Library of Queensland for its support through the Digital Starter Grant Program and looks forward to continuing to build digitally connected, informed and resilient communities across the Cassowary Coast.
This new service has been made possible through the Digital Starter Grant Program, part of State Library of Queensland’s Regional Digital Development project, supported by the Department of Customer Services, Open Data and Small and Family Business.
(Contributed with thanks by Veronica Ferguson, Tully Library Supervisor of the Cassowary Coast Regional Council)
Feral pigs can survive and thrive in many environments, culling them protects natural flora and fauna, alongside preventing mass amounts of environmental and agricultural damage. Photos sourced: Terrain NRM
Feral pigs are causing widespread damage across Australia’s agricultural land, waterways and natural environments, with calls for stronger action as regional communities continue to battle the growing pest population.
Federal concerns have been raised about the escalating feral pig problem, with estimates suggesting millions of pigs are spread across the country and significant control efforts required each year just to prevent numbers from increasing.
The invasive animals are blamed for damaging crops, destroying fencing, contaminating waterways, spreading disease and impacting native ecosystems.
Senator Susan McDonald said urgent action was needed to support farmers and regional communities dealing with the impacts of feral pigs.
“Across Australia, producers are watching crops destroyed overnight, fencing ripped apart, water systems contaminated and native habitats obliterated,” Senator McDonald said.
“These pests breed rapidly, spread disease and cause untold devastation to agriculture and the environment, yet regional Australians are being left to fight this battle largely on their own.”
Senator McDonald said a coordinated approach was needed, including long-term funding, targeted control programs and support for producers managing the impacts.
The issue is being addressed locally, with Hinchinbrook Shire Council preparing to undertake an aerial shooting program aimed at reducing feral pig populations across the region.
The control operation will cover participating land parcels and properties from Forrest Beach in the north to Crystal Creek in the south, including areas around Capelleris and Kirkwoods Roads.
The aerial shoot will take place, subject to suitable weather conditions, on:
Monday 22nd June 2026, 5:00am to 7:00pm
Tuesday 23rd June 2026, 5:00am to 7:00pm
To support community safety, access to several areas will be restricted during the operation, including:
Access to huts located on Bronte Road will be permitted outside the planned control hours.
The program is funded through support from the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation; the Department of Natural Resources, Mines, Manufacturing and Regional and Rural Development; Herbert Cane Productivity Services Limited; and HQ Plantation, in association with Hinchinbrook Shire Council.
Council is encouraging residents to report feral pig sightings and thanked the community for their cooperation during the control program.
Farmers across the state are set to benefit from a new land rent cap aimed at easing cost pressures on the agriculture sector. Photo source: Shutterstock
Primary producers across North Queensland are set to receive cost-of-living relief after the Queensland Government capped land rent increases for eligible agricultural tenures at 10 per cent for the 2026–27 financial year.
The measure is expected to deliver more than $75 million in rent relief statewide, with farmers, graziers and rural producers in regions such as Hinchinbrook and the Cassowary Coast among those set to benefit.
The cap will apply automatically to eligible primary production leases, licences and permits, helping to soften the impact of rising land valuations driven by strong seasonal conditions and ongoing demand in the agricultural sector.
Minister for Natural Resources and Mines, Regional and Rural Development Dale Last said the policy was designed to provide certainty for producers facing ongoing cost pressures.
“Queensland farmers and graziers are not just the backbone of our regional communities, they are a foundation stone of the wider economy,” Mr Last said.
“At a time when producers continue to face higher input costs, market volatility and global economic shifts, this measure delivers certainty and will take some pressure off the cost of doing business.”
He said the government was focused on ensuring regional industries remained competitive and sustainable.
“When regional Queensland succeeds, the entire State succeeds,” he said.
AgForce President Shane McCarthy welcomed the announcement, saying it would help producers plan with greater confidence.
“Having certainty around land rent costs helps producers make informed business decisions, invest with confidence and focus on running productive sustainable operations,” Mr McCarthy said.
“A strong agricultural industry underpins regional communities, supports jobs, and contributes significantly to Queensland’s economy.”
The cap is expected to apply from July 2026.
Up to $86.7 million has been made available nationally to help strengthen drought preparedness and resilience in regional communities. Photo source: Shutterstock
Regional communities across the Hinchinbrook and Cassowary Coast regions are set to be part of a renewed national effort to strengthen drought preparedness, following the launch of a new funding round under the Australian Government's Future Drought Fund.
Applications are now open for organisations to deliver the next phase of the Drought Resilience Hubs program, which will establish seven hubs across Australia to support farmers and rural communities.
The refreshed program follows an independent review and aims to provide more targeted, practical support that helps producers adopt drought-resilient practices and improve long-term sustainability.
The hubs will focus on connecting farmers with regional experts, innovations, services and research while encouraging collaboration between industry, government agencies and local communities.
The Australian Government has committed up to $86.7 million nationally to support the hubs through to June 2032, providing certainty for long-term drought resilience initiatives.
Expected outcomes include increased adoption of drought-resilient farming practices, improved understanding of regional drought challenges and stronger links between producers and researchers.
Applications are open until the 10th August, with successful applicants expected to begin delivering services from 2027. Visit www.grants.gov.au for more information.
Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort, Hinchinbrook Shire Council Mayor Ramon Jayo, Townsville Enterprise CEO Claudia Brumme, and Townsville City Mayor Nick Dametto call for modernisation of the Sugar Code of Conduct. Photo credit: Facebook
North Queensland’s sugar industry is being urged to prepare for the future, with regional leaders coming together to call for changes to the Sugar Code of Conduct to support innovation and long-term sustainability.
Townsville Mayor Nick Dametto, Hinchinbrook Shire Council Mayor Ramon Jayo, Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort and Townsville Enterprise CEO Claudia Brumme recently joined up to advocate for modernisation of the code.
North Queensland produces more than a third of Australia’s sugar, with cane growers and mills playing a vital role in the region’s economy.
Mayor Dametto said the industry needs the flexibility to explore new opportunities beyond traditional sugar production.
“We need to ensure cane growers and mills are enabled to expand beyond sugar production into ethanol, biofuels and high-value by-products so they can capitalise on opportunities in the evolving sugar industry,” he said.
The Sugar Code of Conduct governs commercial arrangements between sugarcane growers and mill owners, including how proceeds from exported sugar are shared.
Regional leaders say updating the code is an important step in supporting the industry as it faces changing markets, new technologies and opportunities in renewable energy.
The call comes as North Queensland’s sugar communities continue to look towards diversification while protecting one of the region’s most important agricultural industries.
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