Lesley Pryor has been recognised with an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) for her service to youth through foster care. Photo supplied

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Lesley Pryor: More Than Two Decades Of Foster Care
By Victoria Velton

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Foster carer Lesley Pryor has been recognised with an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) for her service to youth through foster care, after more than 20 years of opening her home and her heart to children in need, providing stability, support and a sense of belonging.

Lesley said the recognition came as a surprise.

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“I think the biggest thing is it’s very humbling,” she said.

“I’ve had a number of community members say to me, ‘You really deserve it, we’ve seen everything you do with the kids and in the community,’ which you don’t always realise.”

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“You just do what you do, and you don’t realise other people are looking at you and thinking, ‘Wow, you do all of that.”

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Lesley’s journey into foster care began initially as an option she was exploring without knowing exactly what the future would hold.

“We hadn’t 100 per cent decided, but we went through the training. About three quarters of the way through, we were offered our first placement, and when we took that first child in, I think it just became clear that this was what I wanted to do.”

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That first placement became a lifelong connection, with the child remaining an important part of Lesley’s life into adulthood.

“He was six when he came to live with me and he’s now 28. He still lives locally, and we still have a great relationship.”

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Lesley said some of her proudest moments have been seeing the children she cared for grow into adults while maintaining those connections.

“We’ve got quite a large number of foster children we’ve raised into adulthood that we still have really strong relationships with, and that’s probably my biggest proud moment.”

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“Watching them grow up, enjoy themselves, excel at what they excel at and make their own choices is really special.”

For Lesley, foster care is about recognising each child as an individual and supporting them to reach their potential.

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“They all have their own personalities, their own needs and wants, and you have to be open to nurturing what each individual child enjoys.”

“You can’t just assume everyone is the same. One child might love soccer, another might love something completely different. You have to be willing to support them as individuals.”

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“It’s taught me that people are incredibly resilient, and kids especially are extremely resilient.”

A strong support network has also played an important role in Lesley’s fostering journey, with family, friends and the wider community often stepping up to help.

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“It’s huge. I’ve got a brilliant network between family, friends and the community.”

“People are really thoughtful. They’ll think of you and the kids, whether it’s offering support or just doing something kind. That’s really important.”

Lesley said growing up in a close-knit family helped shape her approach to foster care.

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“My husband Mark and I both come from very close families and quite big families, so having lots of children around has always been part of our lives.”

“Fostering has opened my eyes to a lot of things and shown me just how much children can go through and how strong they can be.”

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She said one of the most important lessons she has learned is that foster children are part of their own families too.

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“As much as you make your home their home, they have other family, and that’s something you have to remember and nurture.”

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“We’re not trying to replace anyone. We’re just another part of their support network. They call us Aunty and Uncle, and that’s something really special.”

Reflecting on her years as a foster carer, Lesley said she hopes her legacy is that she always showed up for the children who needed her.

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“I would absolutely encourage people, but I would encourage them to go in with their eyes open and understand what it really means, because you are looking after someone else’s children.”

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“My husband jokes that I must enjoy banging my head against a brick wall because we’ve had some really challenging kids over the years.”

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“But I always say I want it on my headstone: ‘Lesley never gave up on anyone.’”

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Silvia Brown: A Career Of Compassionate Nursing

By Victoria Velton

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For more than three decades, Ingham nurse Silvia Brown has dedicated her career to supporting patients, families and the wider Hinchinbrook community.

That commitment was recently recognised with an Order of Australia Medal (OAM), an honour she said left her speechless.

“I was lost for words,” Silvia said.

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“It felt like; I just go to work and do my job - to be recognised with that particular medal is just unbelievable. I can’t believe that what I do would even warrant receiving a medal with that distinction.”

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“I’m honoured, very honoured, and I’m very grateful. I feel very privileged that working in the nursing profession has allowed me to interact with people.”

Silvia’s nursing journey began in 1987, inspired by her sister who was working in the profession at the time.

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“She said to me, ‘Why don’t you come nursing, see if you like it?’ and I did.”

Beginning her career at the old Ingham Hospital, Silvia started as an assistant before completing her enrolled nursing training and later becoming a registered nurse.

Her career has included roles as a discharge planner, community health nurse, and since November 2019, Chronic Disease Nurse Navigator, a position supporting patients through complex health journeys.

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Reflecting on her work, Silvia said nursing had taught her important lessons.

“It’s taught me empathy. It’s taught me to understand that even though you’re there to help people with their health journey, it’s more about respecting them and listening to them, hearing them, and treating them like an individual.”

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“I’ve been lucky because I’ve been allowed to walk with people on their journey, and that can include their end-of-life care.”

Silvia’s involvement with palliative care has been a significant part of her career, leading to her joining the local palliative care committee, helping with fundraising and support, and later volunteering with the Hurley Bus, which provides important transport assistance for community members.

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“A lot of my clients who are palliative, frail and aged have limited transport options, so that’s where the idea of the bus came from,” she said.

“Being able to get people to their appointments using this bus, and then giving back to the bus by volunteering, has been really meaningful.”

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Silvia said the strength of the Hinchinbrook community comes from the many people who quietly give their time to support others.

“We have a really great community. There are a lot of people here who volunteer their time graciously and quietly, supporting and filling the gaps for services that aren’t always provided in a small town.”

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She said the region’s diversity and resilience help bring people together, especially during challenging times.

“We get brought together through natural disasters. Ingham usually makes the news when we’re flooding and things like that, but everyone puts aside their differences and looks out for the community.”

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“Neighbours helping neighbours, our hospital helping our community, and that goes for all services.”

After so many years caring for others, Silvia feels grateful for what she has learned from those she has supported.

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“I don’t look at myself as making a difference. I just feel like I’ve been privileged in my nursing career to be influenced by other colleagues, but also by my clients and their families.”

“Everyone I come into contact with leaves a part of themselves that I learn from.”

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“I’m really grateful and honoured that someone thought highly enough of what I do and of me to nominate me.”

“To win the award is just an amazing thing, and it will probably be the highlight of my whole career.”

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Dylan training to defend his Adaptive CrossFit title. Photos supplied

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For most of his life, Dylan Crema from Tully has faced challenges that many people could never imagine. Born with Velo-Cardio-Facial Syndrome (VCFS), a genetic condition caused by a missing piece of chromosome 22q11.2, Dylan has lived with a range of associated health issues, including intellectual disability, low muscle tone, heart complications, and other medical conditions.

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Despite these challenges, Dylan was always treated the same as his three siblings. His family encouraged him to live life to the fullest and pursue his goals like any other young person.

Everything changed during the COVID-19 pandemic when Dylan discovered CrossFit. With the support of his carer and coach Tracee Tozer, he committed himself to improving his health and fitness. Through hard work, determination, and countless hours of training, Dylan lost an incredible 35 kilograms and continued to grow stronger and fitter.

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After entering a few local competitions, Dylan quickly realised he had a natural talent for the sport. Success at local events inspired him to aim higher, and before long he was competing on the international stage.

Now 26 years old, Dylan is the reigning Adaptive CrossFit World Champion in his division. Last year, he travelled to Las Vegas, where he competed against some of the world's best adaptive athletes and claimed the world title.

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This year, Dylan has once again proved he belongs among the elite. After completing the online qualification process for the Adaptive CrossFit Games, he currently sits ranked number one in the world in his division. His next challenge will take him to San Jose, California, where he will defend his world title against 10 of the best adaptive athletes from across the globe.

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Before heading to the United States, Dylan added another major achievement to his growing list of accomplishments. He recently competed at the Torian Pro, Australia's premier CrossFit competition, where he won his division against some of Australia's top adaptive athletes in the intellectual impairment category.

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Dylan's story is one of resilience, determination, and perseverance. From overcoming significant health challenges to becoming a world champion, he has shown that with support, dedication, and belief in yourself, anything is possible.

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As he prepares to defend his world title in San Jose, Dylan carries not only the hopes of his family and supporters but also serves as an inspiration to people living with disabilities everywhere. Regardless of the outcome, Dylan Crema has already proven that champions are defined not by the obstacles they face, but by the courage they show in overcoming them. Follow his amazing journey on Instagram at Dylan_cremacf

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It is good to see the harvest season getting underway; however, the process has not been entirely smooth. Ongoing showery weather continues to play havoc with paddock access for harvest machinery.

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Fortunately, the showers have been hit and miss, allowing some areas of the district to continue cutting while others have had to stand down temporarily.

Despite these challenges, the start of harvest is always an important time for our community, marking not only the beginning of crushing but also a busy and significant period across the district.

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I would like to take this opportunity to wish all our farmers, harvesting crews, and mill staff a safe and, hopefully, not overly eventful season. By working together, we can ensure the current crop is harvested as quickly and efficiently as possible.

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With international sugar prices remaining low, this season will be challenging for both growers and mills. It is therefore essential that we make the most of the crop, by putting every stick in the bin and extracting every bit of juice. Good luck to everyone.

As we move into this busy period, safety must remain a priority.

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I would like to remind everyone to stay vigilant for cane trains when travelling around the district. I also ask farmers with paddocks adjoining road and rail intersections to cut cane back from the corners wherever possible, and as early as possible in the season.

Improving visibility at and beyond these intersections will make a significant difference for all road users, including our haul out drivers. Thank you in advance for your cooperation.

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The start of crushing also brings with it one of our district’s most valued traditions: the annual Ingham Show, which has been part of our social fabric since 1883, now an incredible 143 years. This year, the show will be held on Thursday and Friday, with Friday being a public holiday in our district. The show committee has been working extremely hard to deliver a fantastic event for the community, so let’s show our appreciation by supporting them in force and enjoying the festivities with friends and family.

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For full details of times and events, please visit: https://inghamshow.com.au/

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Finally, I would like to draw your attention to an emerging issue that will have significant implications for our region. If possible, I encourage you to assist in petitioning the Federal Government regarding its intention to reduce Disaster Recovery funding. The reality is that the State holds primary responsibility for disaster management and passes delivery, along with a share of cost and risk, down to local government. If the State’s liability increases sharply under a 50/50 funding model, it has a strong incentive to manage this exposure by tightening eligibility, raising the bar for what qualifies, and shifting additional administrative and assurance burdens onto councils.

For a small, high-exposure council like Hinchinbrook Shire, the consequences are both severe and very real.

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Since 2018, Hinchinbrook has experienced nine declared disaster events, including four within a single twelve-month period, and is currently delivering a recovery program exceeding $50 million.

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A council of our size simply does not have the capacity to absorb costs pushed down from higher levels of government.

We cannot self-fund reconstruction, we cannot carry the working capital gap while waiting on constrained State funding, and we do not have the back-office capacity to take on additional compliance burdens without it directly impacting frontline delivery.

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Sign the petition https://listen2qld.com/disaster-funding and make your voice heard.

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Map of the Port Hinchinbrook Provisional Priority Development Area boundary. Image credit: Queensland Government

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The revitalisation of Port Hinchinbrook is continuing to gather momentum, with plans progressing for a major dredging project and safety upgrades set to commence within the precinct.

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Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa said the works represent another important step in efforts to open up the 140-hectare site and boost local jobs, tourism and future investment.

“Port Hinchinbrook is moving forward,” Mr Chiesa said.

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“With planning progressing, community consultation continuing and safety upgrades underway, we’re taking important steps towards unlocking the precinct’s future potential.”

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A key milestone in the next phase of the project, which was previously declared a Provisional Priority Development Area (PPDA), is the proposed dredging of the marina and surrounding waterways, which will help restore navigability and support future activity within the precinct.

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International Coastal Management, part of RPS, has been engaged as the technical lead and project manager, bringing significant experience delivering complex dredging projects across Queensland.  

Planned outcomes of the project include reinstating the waterways, Stony Creek canal and access channels to support marine rescue operations, recreational users and tourism operators.

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Safety upgrades to existing marina buildings and offices are also set to commence, helping prepare the precinct for future use.

Environmental management will also be a priority, with issues including siltation and sediment management addressed to help protect sensitive ecosystems, including the Great Barrier Reef.

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Long-term access and maintenance plans will soon be established to protect the precinct’s infrastructure and natural assets for future generations.

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“I’ll continue to keep the community updated as further milestones are reached,” Mr Chiesa said.

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More information can be found at: www.yoursay.edq.qld.gov.au/port-hinchinbrook-ppda

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Almost every week the Cardwell RSL puts on a Sunday lunch for just $10 a head. Photo credit: Cardwell RSL Sub Branch

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After impressive fundraising efforts from dedicated their volunteers, Cardwell RSL Sub Branch has donated $2,000 to the upcoming Cardwell UFO Festival, set to take place from the 6^th to the 9^th of August.

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Cardwell RSL Sub Branch president Robert Lang said the festival is a unique celebration for the region and the only event of its kind in Australia.

“Through the hard work of our volunteers, the Cardwell RSL Sub Branch is proud to be able to participate in the annual UFO Festival,” Mr Lang said.

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“Our donation of $2,000 helps the Cardwell community with this festival, and our congratulations go to Thea Ormond and her dedicated committee for organising this very entertaining event.”

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The funds were raised through a range of community initiatives run by the RSL, including their popular Sunday lunches and barbeques, which offer an affordable feed alongside fun activities like roast chook raffles and $100 Board prizes throughout the afternoon.

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The Cardwell RSL Sub Branch thanked everyone who supports their events and fundraising activities, as each contribution helps the organisation continue on their mission to give back to the community.

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The community is welcoming back Lucia Bunce, who recently launched Unbreakable You Counselling after taking a short break from practice to focus on her health and wellbeing.

Lucia's return reflects both resilience and a deep commitment to helping others navigate life's challenges. Drawing on her professional counselling experience and personal understanding of overcoming adversity, she brings empathy, authenticity, and compassion to every client interaction.

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Unbreakable You Counselling offers a safe, supportive environment where individuals can explore their concerns, build confidence, and develop practical strategies for positive change. Whether facing stress, grief, relationship difficulties, disability-related challenges, or major life transitions, clients can expect respectful, person-centred support tailored to their unique circumstances.

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The name "Unbreakable You" captures a powerful message; that even during life's most difficult moments, strength and growth remain possible.

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As Lucia resumes her counselling journey, we congratulate her on this new venture and wish Unbreakable You Counselling every success in making a meaningful difference in the lives of those it serves.

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Get in touch with Lucia by email at: uycounselling@gmail.com or by calling: 0408 555 092. Offices at 37 Herbert St, Ingham.

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Space for floor to ceiling tackle and rod displays, bicycles and homebrew supplies. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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A Local Business Opportunity With Real Lifestyle Appeal

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Many people pass through Ingham and quickly understand why locals love calling it home. With Hinchinbrook Island, the Great Barrier Reef, rivers, creeks and world-class fishing all close by, the region offers a lifestyle that is becoming harder to find.

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Now, one local business is offering someone the chance to make that lifestyle permanent.

Ingham Tackle Shop, a well-established retail business in the heart of town, is being offered for sale. For more than a decade, it has been offering Hinchinbrook locals, visitors, fishers, boaties, cyclists and homebrew enthusiasts a mix of fishing tackle, bicycles, boating accessories, homebrew supplies and outdoor essentials.

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It is the kind of shop that fits naturally into the North Queensland lifestyle. Locals and tourists alike rely on it for everyday gear and advice when exploring the coast, creeks and islands in the region.

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Already living in the region? This is an opportunity to step into a known local business with loyal customers. Visiting, thinking, “I could live here,” here’s a genuine reason to stay.

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Simple to operate, owner-friendly and supported by strong local demand, limited competition and steady tourism traffic. There is also room to grow through expanded product ranges, online sales and greater digital marketing.

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Ingham Tackle Shop represents more than a business purchase. It is a chance to invest in a proven local enterprise while enjoying the lifestyle that brings people to North Queensland in the first place.

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Enquiries are now welcome, for more information contact Paul Beardmore on 0427 979 147 or email paul.beardmore@finnbusinesssales.com.au or call the owner on 0419 375 620.

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Trees at Forrest Beach. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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Hinchinbrook Shire Council is reminding residents that trees growing on Council-owned or managed land cannot be removed, damaged or relocated without written approval, following recent incidents in the region.

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This includes, but is not limited to, cutting down trees, removing, digging out or transplanting trees, and damaging tree roots or surrounding soil.  

“Unauthorised removal or damage of trees on Council land is a breach of local laws.” Council shared.  

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“Enforcement action may be taken, including the issuing of penalties and recovery of costs associated with replacement and site restoration.”

Council said that trees on public land are carefully planned and maintained as part of the region’s community infrastructure, providing shade to reduce urban heat, improving air quality and public health, supporting native wildlife habitat, assisting with stormwater management and erosion control, and contributing to the overall character of local communities.

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Residents are also reminded that planting trees or shrubs on public land, including footpaths and nature strips, is not permitted without Council approval. Applications can be made through the Vegetation Planting on Council Land Request Form, with assessments considering factors such as underground services, access requirements and future infrastructure projects.

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While residents cannot remove trees themselves, Council does undertake removals when necessary. This may occur if a tree is dead, diseased, structurally unsafe, damaging infrastructure, required for approved works, or poses a risk to public safety.

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Anyone concerned about the condition of a tree is encouraged to contact Council rather than take matters into their own hands. Council officers can assess the situation and determine whether maintenance or removal is required.

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For more information, contact Hinchinbrook Shire Council on 4776 4600 or email council@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au.

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Did You Know?

A Two-Day Tango Delivers Maximum Feels

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Here’s Hinchinbrook’s superpower: proximity. Ingham sits at the pivot point between wetlands, rainforest and coast, making it easy to pack huge variety into just two days. Less driving, more doing, always a win.

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Day one flows like this: TYTO Wetlands at dawn, deli picnic for lunch, Wallaman Falls for an afternoon roar, then dinner back in town. Day two? Coffee first, Lucinda jetty silhouettes next, a relaxed family fish, and a sunset that melts both sky and schedule.

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The real magic is flexibility. Weather off? Swap the order. Tides wrong? Pivot inland. This region rewards loose plans and curious detours. Two days here doesn’t feel rushed, it feels efficient, satisfying, and quietly smug. Map it: hinchinbrookway.com.au

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Earlier in the year I wrote about the State Valuer-General conducting updated land valuations. By now we should have all received communication from the State Valuer-General regarding the new land valuations.
 
As the majority of us will have noticed, there has been an increase in land valuations, particularly in the Residential land category. As you may be aware, a portion of the rates payable is based on the land valuation. Rates are an inevitable part of owning property in any local government area. The income generated is used to budget for the everyday business and to maintain vital infrastructure services that councils provide. The services that the council needs to supply to the community are crucial, with some of the most vital basic infrastructure to be maintained being roads, rubbish, water, and sewerage.

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It is unavoidable that the costs of delivering these basic services increase each year however, in these particularly challenging times, these costs have increased sharply, and just as in budgeting for our everyday living costs at home, the council has to budget in a similar way but on a much larger scale.
 
What is also of concern is the recent announcement by the Federal Government to reduce Disaster Assistance funding for Queensland in times of natural disasters. This assistance from the Federal Government is crucial for all local government areas in Queensland, and any reduction of this assistance may potentially cripple local government areas found in an unfortunate disaster rebuild situation.

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Now more than ever our local council needs to plan to become ever more sustainable. Given the above, the council is mindful and careful about how rates are applied, trying to minimise rate increases while providing the vital basic infrastructure services that our community needs. It is a difficult balance and one that all ratepayers have to share and bear the load of equitably.
 
If you are not aware, you can arrange a rate prepayment plan with the Council. Payments can be made at any time. Any payments made in advance throughout the year will sit as a credit against the property until the next rates notice is issued.

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In addition, if you are finding it difficult to make payment, you can discuss other repayment options with the Rates Department — they will be happy to assist. You can contact Council on (07) 4776 4600 or visit our website at www.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au to explore the available options or to get in touch with our team.

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In ending, I wish the harvesting, milling and sugar cane grower sector the best for a safe and unchallenging crushing season for 2026.

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Until next time, take care and be kind.

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Melissa Scuderi’s stall ‘Skylah & Me’. At this stall, you can find toxic-free home products like soaps, fragrances and more. Photo credit: Marley Abeleven

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With an earlier than usual start to the 2026 Markets at the Mosaic, the market offerings this year has continued to strengthen, building on the momentum from previous years.

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Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Tourism is thrilled to welcome a staggering 10 new stallholders in a few short months, with more set to join us throughout the remainder of the year. It has been wonderful to welcome back many of our much-loved regular stallholders, who have become a valued part of our Mosaic team showcasing their products and skills to the Hinchinbrook community and visitors alike.

Data collected at each market day continues to demonstrate the event’s positive economic impact, with an average of 35% of visitors travelling from outside the shire. This consistent level of visitation also provides valuable opportunity for local businesses, generating increased foot traffic and encouraging visitors to explore everything our shire has to offer.

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These markets have also created exciting opportunities for our stallholders themselves. Many local micro-businesses have expanded their reach by participating in markets across Townsville, helping to grow their customer base, while also raising the profile of Hinchinbrook and attracting new visitors to our region.

Closer to home, we’re equally pleased to see local businesses achieving new milestones, with several stallholders now having their products stocked through NQ Makers Collective - a fantastic example of how markets continue to foster growth and new opportunities.

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What began as an initiative to support local micro-businesses has evolved into a thriving community event that continues to strengthen our local economy, celebrate local talent, and showcase the entrepreneurial spirit within our region.

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With live music, a diverse range of market stalls, and a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere, Markets at the Mosaic has become a much-loved community event. We encourage everyone to come along, support our talented local makers and producers, and help these family-run businesses continue to flourish.

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Students at Our Lady of Lourdes have had lots of fun being inventors. Photos supplied

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2026 has marked an exciting new chapter for Science at Our Lady of Lourdes with the introduction of Science as a specialist subject across the school.

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Aligned with the Australian Curriculum Version 9, our science program provides students with opportunities to investigate real-world phenomena through hands-on learning, creativity, inquiry and play.

At Lourdes, we believe that students learn best when they are actively engaged in meaningful experiences that allow them to question, explore, design, test and create. Across every year level, students have been immersed in learning that encourages curiosity while developing important skills such as collaboration, critical thinking, problem-solving and resilience.

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Our Year 2 students have stepped into the role of designers and inventors by creating their own fidget toys. Students investigated how materials can be changed and selected for specific purposes, using the design process to create products that are both practical and engaging. They have loved seeing how different products can be made, especially their favourite toys.

Feel the Magic is providing vital support to children and families across Australia who are navigating the pain of grief, offering a range of free early intervention programs designed to help young people “face, feel and heal” after the death of a parent, guardian or sibling.

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At the heart of the organisation is a belief that no child should face grief alone. Its programs create a nurturing, supportive environment where children aged 7 to 18 can express their emotions, learn coping strategies, and connect with others who understand their experience.

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Through its virtual camp programs, Feel the Magic is able to reach families regardless of location. These online sessions bring together grieving children to learn a shared “grief language”, build practical emotional tools, and reduce feelings of isolation through connection with other families.

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The organisation also offers specialised programs for those impacted by suicide bereavement. These include virtual camps, a one-day face-to-face “Let’s Talk Suicide Family Day Camp”, and the signature Camp Magic experience—an intensive 2.5-day overnight program where children are paired with trained volunteer mentors who provide one-on-one support throughout the camp.

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Camp Magic focuses on helping children understand grief, regulate difficult emotions and develop healthy coping strategies in a safe and structured environment. A concurrent emotional literacy workshop is also available for parents and guardians, helping families better understand grief responses and strengthen communication at home.

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For older participants, Grad Camp supports young people aged 16 to 19 as they transition into adulthood while continuing to process their grief experience.

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Across all programs, Feel the Magic emphasises connection, understanding and hope, with the organisation noting that even a single day can make a meaningful difference in a child’s journey through grief.

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To learn more about how you can get involved email lauren.galbraith@feelthemagic.org.au.

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WHAT: Family Day Camp

WHEN: 26^th July

WHERE: The Cathedral School, Townsville

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Teacher aide Jenny Genrich incorporates play-based learning to actively engage students and support early skill development in the classroom.

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A strong school community is built on the dedication of its people. At the heart of Halifax SS are highly experienced and caring learning support staff who ensure every student feels included, supported, and capable of success. Their work, alongside experienced and innovative teachers, creates engaging classrooms where creativity and curiosity thrive.

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Play-based learning is one example of this approach in action, helping students develop confidence, independence, and a love of learning from an early age.

Bringing these strengths together is exceptional leadership. This has been recognised through the awarding of the prestigious Bill McClintock Medal, introduced in 2016 to honour individuals who contribute to the advocacy and service of the Queensland Association of State School Principals (QASSP), particularly through supporting colleagues across regional and remote communities.

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“We are all very proud of Michael for receiving this award,” a spokesperson said.  

“It reflects a commitment not only to school excellence, but to strengthening education across Queensland.

“Together, caring support staff, innovative teaching, and award-winning leadership create an environment where students and communities thrive.”

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Members of the Forrest Beach Auxiliary Firefighters: Glyn Morgan, former Air Force serviceman, and Braydon Fratus, local mill worker and the brigade's newest recruit, standing by the Forrest Beach Brigade’s fire engine.

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The People Behind The Uniform: Forrest Beach Auxiliary Firefighters

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When disaster strikes, firefighters are often the first people the community turns to. But behind every emergency response is a team of locals who give their time, train regularly and step up when their neighbours need them most.

Forrest Beach Fire and Rescue is encouraging more community members, particularly younger residents, to consider joining the station and becoming part of the team.

"It's a good thing to get people back in from the community, especially for the station here; because we're an elderly community. Getting the younger people in is really, really important,” said Acting Lieutenant Keith Amos.

Keith highlighted that being part of the station is a chance to make a tangible impact on the community- and not just in cases of fire.  

During the major flooding event of 2025 that isolated Forrest Beach and surrounding areas, firefighters assisted residents, with rescues, but also delivering meals and helping secure damaged homes.

"The floods, when we were cut off, the way we were seen by the community and how we helped people really made an impact," Keith said.

The crew’s role is diverse, and potential recruits are reminded that it’s not all flashing lights and sirens.  

Beyond the emergencies, auxiliary firefighters have an important role in the everyday community; regularly attending markets, school safety days and events to teach fire safety and engage with local families.  

During the recent Tasman Turtle Picnic Day, a popular community event for children, countless young attendees were proudly sporting the station’s bright, colourful Blazer the Koala firefighting mascot stickers.

"We try and get into the community, showing what we do," Auxiliary Firefighter Michael Monbelli said.  

Michael also explained that for him, the biggest obstacle is balancing service with everyday life – though this factor he feels is understood and well-supported by the crew.

Michael balances his firefighting role with full time work at the mill, and a busy family life with young children. On his team, there is a schoolteacher, two ex-servicemen, and another millworker.

Auxiliary firefighters also commit significant time to weekly training. As for emergency response, call-outs can occur at any hour of the day or night.

"Being an auxiliary is that we're on call.” Acting Lieutenant Keith Amos explained.  

“So even on our Wednesday night training we can get a call."  

Keith described the role as ‘drop everything and jump into action’.

Despite the demands, Former Army serviceman Mark McEwen believes many people underestimate how manageable the role can be.

"It doesn't take too much out of your normal week. Give up your three hours of training on a Wednesday, and you're on call."

At the same time, emergency work can be unpredictable.

"Things can change in a heartbeat," Mark said. He recalled a 4:00am call-out to a possible house fire.

"Eight hours later, we get home. Us older fellas feel it a bit more, but it was worthwhile. That's what we're here for."

The crew also works closely with volunteer organisations including the SES and Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club.  

During the February 2025 flood event, firefighters and surf lifesavers combined resources to rescue elderly residents trapped by rising floodwaters.

According to the firefighters, the biggest motivation to get involved is that it feels good to make a difference in your community.

"It's that sense of pride," Keith said, "I take pride in this job and I love doing it."

"Even if you've never thought about becoming a firefighter, come down and have a chat to us," Keith said.

"It's that simple.”

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