Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
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. 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. 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. Students at Our Lady of Lourdes have had lots of fun being inventors. Photos supplied
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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. 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. 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. 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. 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. For older participants, Grad Camp supports young people aged 16 to 19 as they transition into adulthood while continuing to process their grief experience. 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. To learn more about how you can get involved email lauren.galbraith@feelthemagic.org.au. WHAT: Family Day Camp WHEN: 26th July WHERE: The Cathedral School, Townsville
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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. 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. “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.” Caption: 1. Teacher aide Jenny Genrich incorporates play-based learning to actively engage students and support early skill development in the classroom. 2. Presentation of the Bill McClintock Medal, recognising outstanding leadership and service to education across Queensland.
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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.” Caption: 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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Hinchinbrook women came together to celebrate International Women’s Day in heartwarming style. The community united to support one another and honour the strength and courage of women everywhere.
A sea of pink poured through Ingham’s streets in a Fun Run in aid of Chicks in Pink, raising awareness and funds for women living with breast cancer. Meanwhile, the Forrest Beach QCWA welcomed locals to an open day with high tea and charming conversation. Both events were a celebration of friendship, generosity, and the power of women standing together in support of one another.
A sea of pink gathered at the Herbert River Jockey Club before pouring into Ingham. Photo supplied.
Women Uplifting Women This International Women’s Day
Tracey Chinotti and Elisa Seri, along with a group of family and friends, organised an International Women’s Day Fun Run in partnership with Chicks in Pink, a local organisation supporting women living with breast cancer. The morning attracted community members of all ages, who came to walk or run in support of the cause.
Councillor Donna Marbelli shared a message from several cancer support services that deeply resonated with the organisers:
“Not until you’ve faced cancer do you truly understand how heavy life can feel. The battles you once thought were small become mountains, and the strength you never knew you had becomes your lifeline. Every good day feels like a blessing, every bit of progress a quiet miracle. Cancer warriors don’t just survive they fight, they hope, and they rise again and again. And that courage deserves to be honoured.”
Tracey and Elisa reflected on the impact of these words saying, “We just honoured that courage, and it is as much for us as for the Cancer Warriors.”
They also expressed gratitude to everyone who contributed to the event with, “We just wanted to thank the wonderful people who ran or walked, those who secured sponsorship, and all the other generous people who made monetary donations. The Herbert River Jockey Club for letting us use the venue. Chiesa Butchery for donating the sausages and Mick's Bread Kitchen for the bread. Also, Wholelife Pharmacy for the beautiful raffle prize. Once again, we come to realise our beautiful little town is so full of caring, generous people that become treasured friends along the way. Thank you all for your help and support.”
The Forrest Beach QCWA also celebrated International Women’s Day with an open day at their hall. It was a deliciously delightful morning, featuring the perfect high tea with scones and generous dollops of jam and cream.
The QCWA ladies couldn’t have been happier as they worked hard in the heat, serving up smiles along with tasty treats, and sharing information with prospective members who popped in to explore the facilities and enjoy a scone. Did you know the club also has a very well-stocked second-hand library? For just a coin donation, you can borrow—or even take home—a beloved book.
Both events celebrated the ways women in Hinchinbrook support each other. Whether coming together to raise funds for breast cancer awareness or sharing stories over tea, the events reflected the generosity and thriving community spirit that keeps the region connected.
Jessica Seri, Tracey Chinotti, and Elisa Seri, organisers of the day. Photo supplied
The International Women’s Day fun run as it makes its way through Ingham township. Photo supplied
L-R Derryl, Margeret, Beverley, and Valerie serving tea and scones. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
L-R Rebecca, Inara, Arlene, and Rochelle. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
L-R Mary Maria, and Carolyne. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
L-R Sombat, Mary, Annette, Dayu, and Barb. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
The International Women’s Day fun run as it departs from the Jockey Club. Photo supplied
On Monday, I had a bit of a scare. Driving out from Forrest Beach in my little work car that morning, the rain was just starting to fall. But as I drew closer to Halifax, I started to regret not checking the Disaster Dashboard before I headed out.
Soon the rain was pelting down, and there was a little water on the road, but not yet concerning enough that my little car couldn’t navigate it. I was off to meet with an important client of the paper, but when I got to the meeting at Lucinda, we all didn’t stay for long.
A soggy young man in a thin yellow raincoat burst into the meeting and told us all that if we wanted to get home, we had to leave now as the roads were going under. I knew I had to hurry out of there as I definitely didn’t pack a swimsuit and my car could not forge anything like what the huge 4WDs parked around it could.
In the end, I saw the waves and spray on the Halifax roads and knew I had to take the long way around, from Lucinda to Forrest Beach via Ingham. I kept checking in with my family and work to make sure they knew, and I knew, we were all driving and getting home safely.
Knowing the limitations of your vehicle and your own driving ability is very important. Don’t drive in wet weather if you’re unsure about either, as it makes it unsafe for everybody else on the road. Stay safe everyone!
Fun fact: When I knew I was going to be moving to the North Queensland region for work, I purposely looked for a personal car that could handle a notorious puddle or two. I loved making the city-to-rural switch. It’s made driving so much more fun.
Community spirit was in full force across the shire on Sunday, 1 March, as locals turned out in strong numbers for Clean Up Australia Day, rolling up their sleeves to protect the coastline they call home.
In Wongaling Beach, volunteers met at Rotary Park before splitting into four teams to patrol Wongaling, South Mission, Main Mission and Bingil Beaches. From 1pm to 5pm, participants scoured the sand at and below the high tide mark, collecting plastic debris ranging from tiny fragments to larger washed-up items. Gloves and bags were provided, with volunteers encouraged to work at their own pace as the task involved significant bending and sifting through sand.
Later in the afternoon, another clean-up effort brought families, dog-walkers and long-time volunteers together at Porters Promenade, near North Mission Beach. Organised by community group C4, the 3pm event invited residents to “bring your kids, bring your dog (on a leash), bring your smiles” and help care for a stretch of coastline of special significance to the Djiru custodians.
With a 3.55-metre tide earlier in the day creating ideal conditions for collecting marine debris, two teams were formed following a briefing at the northern amenities block. One group focused on the Fish Trap and North Mission Beach area, while another tackled more challenging terrain near Clump Point Lookout before regrouping at 4.30pm. In 2025, organises reported removing 99 kilograms of rubbish from the shoreline between Clump Point Lookout and Fish Trap.
Across both events, bags of collected plastic stood as a powerful reminder of the ongoing challenge of marine waste — and the strength of a community committed to keeping its beaches pristine.
C4 continues to coordinate annual initiatives on Clean Up Australia Day! Photo source: C4
The Hinchinbrook Shire’s brightest young minds were celebrated recently during a unique, combined judging night of the Lions Youth of the Year Quest, bringing together two Lions clubs and two secondary schools in a one-night event.
Hosted jointly by the Ingham Lions Club and the Lower Herbert Halifax Lions Club, the competition involved students from Ingham State High School and Gilroy Santa Maria College. It marked the first time both clubs and schools had been judged together on the same night, making the event distinctive in its format.
At club level, Nalini Schofield was named Overall Winner for Ingham State High School, with Ava Ackery awarded Best Public Speaker. Gilroy Santa Maria College student Elina Rose Alappatt Daijo claimed both Overall Winner and Best Public Speaker for the Lower Herbert Halifax Lions Club.
Hinchinbrook’s Future Leaders Recognised At Youth Of The Year
Elina went on to be named Zone Level Overall Winner, achieving the highest score across both clubs and schools. The event marked a welcome return after last year’s Youth of the Year competition was cancelled due to devastating flooding in February. Following the cancellation, Ingham Lions were eager to relaunch the program and deliver the opportunity for students in 2026.
Ingham Lions Club Chairperson for Youth of the Year, Diane Hobbs, organised and coordinated the project by liaising with Year 12 coordinators and school principals from both secondary schools, providing information about the program and outlining the interview and public speaking criteria. She was assisted throughout the project by Lower Herbert Halifax Youth of the Year Chair Michael Bube and Ingham Lions member Arlene Turnbull.
A total of three students from each school participated in the competition. Students were marked out of 100 points, with interviews weighted at 70 points and public speaking weighted at 30 points.
During the interview component, students were assessed on their presentation, community involvement, and their views on local, state, national, and international issues. They were also required to justify their opinions, responding to questions such as whether dangerous native animals should be culled, whether the Brisbane Olympics would benefit Queensland, and whether the Premier made the right decision not to declare a Queensland public holiday for Anzac Day. Judges were particularly impressed by the maturity of the students and their ability to present and consider both sides of each issue.
Judging took place at the RSL, where students were given two impromptu questions and required to speak on each for two minutes. The impromptu component allowed judges to assess how well students could think on their feet and communicate confidently on unfamiliar topics. Following dinner, students delivered a prepared five-minute speech to the audience, covering a wide range of topics including “Make America What Again?”, the power of artificial intelligence, and whether European spacecraft may one day discover life on Jupiter.
Hinchinbrook Shire Mayor Ramon Jayo said the event highlighted the strength of the region’s youth.
“Our young people are our region’s future, and that future is looking very bright. They represent the very best of Hinchinbrook,” Mayor Jayo said.
“I’d also like to extend our sincere thanks to the Lions Club for hosting such a worthwhile event and creating opportunities for our young people. Their continued support makes a real difference.”
Elina described the experience as transformative.
“Competing in the Lions Youth of the Year competition has been an unforgettable experience. From preparing my speech to discussing current affairs in the interview section, the process challenged me to step outside my comfort zone and grow both personally and intellectually,” she said.
“Meeting other talented young people from across the zone was inspiring - we each brought unique perspectives and passions yet shared the same drive to make a difference in our communities. The judges and Lions members created a supportive atmosphere, encouraging us to express our ideas with confidence and authenticity.
“Winning the zone title is an honour, but what I’ll remember most are the connections I’ve made and the lessons I’ve learned about leadership, service, and self-belief. I’m so grateful to the Lions Club for providing opportunities like this that empower young Australians to find their voice and contribute meaningfully to society.”
Diane Hobbs has been involved in the Youth of the Year project since joining Ingham Lions in 2008, continuing the legacy of stalwarts Lion Ed Morris and the late Carlo Cavallo, whose passion was to give local youth opportunities to develop interview skills, ‘thinking-on-your-feet’ abilities, and public speaking confidence.
The Lions Youth of the Year program began in Queensland in 1964 and soon became a national initiative. More than 100,000 young people have participated in the program, with notable past contestants including Kevin Rudd, Peter Beattie and current Queensland Premier David Crisafulli.
Secondary students aged 15 to 19 are eligible to enter the program by completing an entry form available through their Year 12 coordinator. Year 11 students considering entering in 2027 are encouraged to reflect on their involvement at school, community activities outside school, academic achievements, future aspirations, hobbies, and interests, as these form the basis of the initial assessment.
With the competition now firmly back on the calendar after last year’s disruption, Lions members and supporters alike left with a renewed sense of optimism, reassured that Hinchinbrook’s future is in capable, thoughtful and passionate hands.
The Government is expanding its landmark Adult Crime, Adult Time laws to 45 youth crime offences, with new laws being introduced to the Queensland Parliament this week, as part of its commitment to make Queensland safer.
Since the passing of the Making Queensland Safer Laws, more than 4,000 youth offenders have been charged with over 19,000 Adult Crime, Adult Time offences and the number of crime victims has fallen 7.2% in 2025, compared to the previous year.
The Bill adds a dozen new offences to Adult Crime, Adult Time, delivering on the Government’s promise to continue strengthening youth crime laws to turn the tide on the Youth Crime Crisis.
The 12 additional offences for Adult Crime, Adult Time include:
The additional offences deliver on the Government’s election promise to expand Adult Crime, Adult Time on the recommendation of the Expert Legal Panel, which was established to consider more complex and serious offences.
Premier David Crisafulli said expanding Adult Crime, Adult Time was another critical step towards reducing victim numbers and turning the tide on youth crime.
“We promised Queenslanders we would continue to strengthen our youth crime laws and put the rights of victims first, and that’s exactly what we are doing,” Premier Crisafulli said.
“Expanding Adult Crime, Adult Time sends a strong message to young thugs, that there are consequences for their actions.
“Reversing a decade of watered down laws will take time, and we won’t stop until there are fewer victims in Queensland.”
Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Deb Frecklington said the Crisafulli Government remained steadfast in its commitment to make Queensland safer and restore law and order, following Labor’s decade of decline.
“We’re giving Judges and Magistrates the tools they need to hand down sentences that reflect community expectations,” the Attorney-General said.
“We’re just getting started and our important work will continue, including strengthening laws where necessary.”
Minister for Youth Justice and Victim Support Laura Gerber said Adult Crime, Adult Time was already working to make Queensland safer.
“We are finally on the path to breaking the cycle of crime in this State and youth offenders are not only facing serious consequences for their actions but, we are also delivering early intervention and intensive rehabilitation programs across the State,” Minister Gerber said.
Thinking about a career protecting and supporting your community? Queensland Police Service will host a pop-up recruitment stand in Ingham, giving locals the chance to learn more about becoming a police officer and ask questions about the application process.
What: QPS Recruitment Pop-Up Stand
When: Wednesday 4 March 2026, 10:00am–12:00pm
Where: Outside Sportspower Store, 2/57 Herbert Street, Ingham
For more information, phone 1300 BE A COP (23 2 267) or email recruiting@police.qld.gov.au.
February has been a very productive month for our community, and I’ve been proud to spend every week working directly with local residents, businesses and organisations across the Hinchinbrook electorate.
Supporting our emergency services has also been front of mind. This month I was pleased to visit local police facilities and speak with officers about the challenges they face and the resources they need. Making sure our frontline services have modern facilities and the support required to keep our communities safe remains a priority for me.
A significant development this month has been progress around Port Hinchinbrook. The Premier and I travelled to Cardwell last week to announce a major step forward with early works now underway following the acquisition of key sites within Queensland’s first Provisional Priority Development Area (PPDA). After community consultation, a Provisional Land Use Plan is now in place to guide restoration and future development, allowing initial repair works to begin, while preparations for dredging progress and a lead contractor is being secured.
I would like to sincerely thank Minister Steve Minnikin MP, Minister for Customer Services and Open Data and Minister for Small and Family Business; Minister Dale Last MP, Minister for Natural Resources and Mines, Minister for Manufacturing and Minister for Regional and Rural Development; and Minister Andrew Powell MP, Minister for the Environment and Tourism and Minister for Science and Innovation, for taking the time to visit Ingham and Townsville.
It was greatly appreciated to see Ministers on the ground meeting with Council, industry groups and local residents, listening firsthand to the opportunities and challenges facing our region.
Their genuine engagement, willingness to listen, and clear passion for regional communities demonstrates a strong commitment to ensuring North Queensland’s voice is heard and represented.
I have also spent considerable time meeting with community groups, schools and volunteers who form the backbone of our region. Attending local events and youth initiatives has been particularly inspiring — it’s encouraging to see so many young people stepping up with confidence and leadership. Our future is in good hands, and I’ll continue to back opportunities that help young people thrive.
Queenslanders will have easier access to flu vaccinations this winter, with the Government delivering a new and expanded free influenza vaccination program for 2026.
From 1 March 2026, every Queenslander aged six months and over will be eligible for a free flu vaccine under what is being described as Australia’s largest statewide influenza program. For the first time, a needle-free nasal spray flu vaccine will also be available for eligible children aged two to five years.
Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Tim Nicholls said the introduction of the nasal spray option was expected to boost vaccination rates among young children.
“This nasal spray vaccination is expected to improve vaccine uptake amongst young kids by removing potential distress about needle vaccinations,” Mr Nicholls said.
“This is just another way we are delivering easier access to health services, protecting everyday life for Queensland families, and keeping people well.”
Legislative changes will also expand the scope of practice for trained health practitioners, allowing registered nurses, midwives, pharmacists, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health practitioners to vaccinate more age groups in more locations.
“This change will allow these qualified health practitioners to vaccinate more age groups in a wider range of convenient locations,” Mr Nicholls said.
Chief Health Officer Dr Marianne Gale encouraged Queenslanders to take advantage of the free program.
“No one wants to be stuck in bed, or in hospital, missing work, school, family events or holidays, and that’s why prevention matters,” Dr Gale said.
President of the Pharmacy Guild of Australia Queensland Branch Chris Owen welcomed the expanded program.
“This expanded program will see community pharmacists play a bigger role in vaccinating Queenslanders,” Mr Owen said.
Flu vaccines will be available throughout March and early April at GP clinics, community pharmacies and other approved providers, with residents encouraged to check which vaccine is best for them.
Image: https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/group-diverse-age-asian-people-family-2101315465
“No one wants to be stuck in bed, or in hospital, missing work, school, family events or holidays, and that’s why prevention matters.” Image sourced: Shutterstock
Hinchinbrook Shire Council wishes to advise the community of the operational status of Council facilities due to the significant wet weather currently affecting the region.
Facilities operating as normal
Temporarily closed
Council will provide updates on operational changes as new information becomes available.
Council apologises for any inconvenience and continues to monitor Council’s Disaster Dashboard at https://disaster.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au
For more information during this time, please contact Council on (07) 4776 4600.
The Disaster Dashboard includes helpful advice and recourses, such as flood cameras and an incidents map. Photo sourced: Hinchinbrook’s Disaster Dashboard
To clean up Queensland’s electoral system, the Government has passed reforms through Parliament that restore fairness, transparency and integrity to elections.
In line with the Government’s commitment to put victims first, criminals serving a sentence of imprisonment or detention for one year or more will no longer be eligible to vote in state or local government elections, or referendums.
The Government has also delivered on its election commitment to level the playing field for political donations, with new legislation allowing both trade unions and property developers to make donations for state election campaigns.
The previous government’s ban on property developer donations at a state level was allegedly at odds with Recommendation 20 of the Crime and Corruption Commission’s Operation Belcarra Report, which focused on local government elections.
Importantly, the ban on property developers donating to local government election campaigns remains in place, with increased penalties for breaches to strengthen the local council donation ban.
Reforms to enhance integrity around political advertising will now require authorisations on all electoral material in the 12 months before polling day, encouraging transparency and ensuring Queenslanders know who is behind political advertisements.
The new laws make political donation cap periods annualised in alignment with New South Wales and the Commonwealth, while loans from regulated lenders and reputable financial institutions for electoral expenditure are now permitted.
Attorney-General and Minister for Justice and Minister for Integrity Deb Frecklington said the reforms helped restore a fairer electoral system.
“These reforms not only put victims first, but bring Queensland into line with other jurisdictions, and restore a genuine level playing field for political donations,” the Attorney-General said.
‘The Government has passed reforms through Parliament that restore fairness, transparency and integrity to elections.’ Photo sourced: Shutterstock
The Crisafulli Government has launched the 2026 Celebrating Reconciliation Grants program, with applications open to share in $100,000 to support local events.
The program aims to support local organisations to host events in communities across Queensland during National Reconciliation Week (27 May - 3 June) to strengthen relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Queenslanders.
The grants provide up to $2,500 for eligible organisations to support local events and activities which foster and celebrate reconciliation across community. These can include cultural performances, art exhibitions, and storytelling.
Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Fiona Simpson said she remained focused on delivering community initiatives which deliver tangible outcomes to Indigenous communities across the State.
“We are focused on delivering practical programs, while also strengthening shared understanding and social cohesion. The Celebrating Reconciliation Grants will support at least 40 local events in all corners of the State during National Reconciliation Week for that purpose," Minister Simpson said.
“Delivering practical reconciliation in partnership with local communities to improve the quality of life in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities – no matter where they are located.”
National Reconciliation Week commemorates two significant milestones in Australia’s reconciliation journey – the successful 1967 referendum and the 1992 High Court Mabo decision.
Reconciliation Queensland Interim CEO Libby Ferrari said the program should encourage all Queenslanders to learn about their shared histories, and the strength and resilience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
“Every year we look forward to seeing the amazing events and programs the Celebrating Reconciliation Grants recipients deliver and the opportunities it creates in bringing communities together right across the State,” Ms Ferrari said.
“These grants create the space and place in communities to share and experience reconciliation at a local level, and this Reconciliation Week, I want to invite all Queenslanders to align with theme and go ‘All In’ in their communities.”
Applications close on 10 March. For more information, including eligibility criteria, and to apply, visit www.qld.gov.au/recgrants.
Reforms have been introduced that will protect the community and mean that youth offenders on bail can have their location tracked 24/7 to reduce reoffending and victim numbers. Changes are part of the Government’s commitment to deliver safety where you live with stronger laws, more police, early intervention and rehabilitation to break the cycle of crime.
The Youth Justice (Electronic Monitoring) Amendment Bill 2025 makes electronic monitoring for youth on bail permanent and statewide, putting GPS trackers on more youth offenders.
The new laws mean courts can impose a GPS device as a bail condition for any youth offender aged 10-17, including first-time offenders.
The Bill delivers some of the strongest youth bail monitoring laws in the country and is another step towards delivering on the promise to make Queensland safer and fight the Youth Crime Crisis.
Electronic monitoring devices have been found to reduce the likelihood of reoffending by 24 percent. This is an act to restore consequences for actions, with more police, early intervention and rehabilitation.
Minister for Youth Justice and Victim Support Laura Gerber said the tough new laws would reduce reoffending and drive down victim numbers.
“We promised Queenslanders we would continue to strengthen youth crime laws to restore safety and that’s exactly what we are doing,” Minister Gerber said.
“By putting more GPS trackers on youth offenders on bail, alongside intensive support services, we will reduce reoffending, have fewer victims of crime and safer communities.”
Hello Hinchinbrook,
With Tones and I and Diesel done and dusted, whether you are a local or a visitor, I hope you enjoyed your time at the concerts and in the Hinchinbrook Shire as we offer a perfect mix of relaxation, adventure and community spirit.
I thought I would mention an area which is very important for our Shire: Waste. The Hinchinbrook Shire Council is committed to reducing waste going to our landfill and is shifting focus from seeing waste as simply 'waste' to treating it as a potential resource which needs to be recovered and recycled.
Recently I have been helping an elderly ratepayer clean their residence out. I visited the Halifax Transfer Station with 10 ute loads. We paid for two loads and used the two free vouchers. The remaining loads were split between the Tip Shop to be reused and repurposed, consisting of household goods and furniture. The rest — steel, green waste, E-waste, aluminium, batteries and glass jars — were all separated, well worth the effort of sorting your loads.
I would also like to give the staff a wrap, as each time I arrived they were more than helpful and always there to give advice with a smile.
On a negative note, very close to the transfer station there was a dumped box trailer, which could have nearly all been recycled bar the tyres. I reported this on Snap Send Solve.
Illegal dumping of green waste and household rubbish in waterways, easements and drains increases the risk of flooding to properties and costs millions of dollars in property damage across the region.
Snap Send Solve is a free app that lets you report a problem to your local council using an iPhone or Android device. You can also make a general request or provide feedback. It allows you to quickly and easily capture and report common issues such as illegal rubbish dumping or a street sign needing repair.
Snap Send Solve determines your local council using your smartphone’s GPS location and sends you the council’s contact information. Your request is then sent from the app using your email address and phone number so that Hinchinbrook Shire Council can communicate directly with you to resolve the issue.
Once again, it is great to be able to pick up a copy of Hinchinbrook Life and read through what has been and what will be happening throughout our Shire.
Did You Know?
Wallaman Is a One-Drop Wonder
Cue the mic drop as Wallaman Falls plunges 268 metres in a single, uninterrupted drop, making it Australia’s highest permanent single-drop waterfall. Located in Girringun National Park, it’s been carving drama into the landscape for thousands of years.
Start at the main lookout for mist, rainbows and full-frame waterfall power. Wet season brings thunder and spray; dry season delivers crisp views and calmer climbs. Feeling adventurous? The Djyinda Walk (about 3.2 km return) descends steep rainforest terrain to the base for a rewarding, but leg-day serious hike. Sturdy shoes, water and turnaround time are essential.
Prefer low-effort, high-reward? The Banggurru Walk (around 800m return) follows Stony Creek and serves rainforest ambience without the quad meltdown. Either way, Wallaman quiets crowds and hijacks timelines, yours and your socials. Pack lunch. You’ll linger.
Plan the day: hinchinbrookway.com.au
At time of publication: Unfortunately, due to the severe weather currently impacting the Hinchinbrook district, Mayor Ramon Jayo has remained in the Shire and was unable to travel to Canberra as planned. He had been scheduled to join the Townsville Enterprise delegation and has asked counterparts to ensure Hinchinbrook’s priorities are clearly represented in every meeting. There will be further opportunities for direct advocacy once conditions stabilise.
The Mayor had been due to attend Canberra alongside Townsville Enterprise and neighbouring councils including Townsville, Burdekin, Charters Towers and Palm Island for 17 meetings with Ministers, advisors and federal agencies.
Our focus is simple and urgent: unlocking housing, unlocking sustainable fuel opportunities, unlocking better health services, and unlocking the enabling infrastructure that lets our community and economy grow with confidence.
We are bringing Hinchinbrook’s priorities to the national level because federal decisions set the funding programs, policy settings and timelines that determine what gets built and when.
At the same time, some of our projects are advancing through state‑level discussions to align approvals, technical standards and co‑funding. Doing both in parallel means we can move quickly when programs open and keep delivery on track.
Expanding accommodation capacity helps do exactly that by attracting investment, supporting local operators, and creating new roles in hospitality, guiding, tours and small business.
We are seeking $4 million to establish the Hinchinbrook Recycling Waste Facility at Warrens Hill. This modern recycling centre will create five full‑time jobs, improve waste separation, increase resource recovery and extend the life of our landfill by diverting recyclable materials. It is a practical upgrade that reduces long‑term costs for ratepayers and supports a cleaner, more resilient Shire.
Health is another immediate priority. We are advocating for $10 million to upgrade and expand the emergency department at Ingham Hospital. A fit‑for‑purpose emergency department improves timely care for local families and strengthens the wider regional health system. The health sector is one of our largest employers and purchasers of goods and services, and a major driver of skilled migration.
The Townsville Hospital and Health Service operates 21 facilities across the broader region; investing in Ingham’s emergency department supports that network’s long‑term plan for high‑quality care and delivers strong economic and social returns.
We are also positioning Hinchinbrook within the emerging sustainable aviation fuel and renewable diesel supply chain.
As one of Australia’s leading sugarcane regions, we can contribute feedstock and logistics to processing, refining and export. With clear national policy settings, private investment follows — creating skilled jobs, value‑adding to agriculture and strengthening Australia’s fuel resilience. This is a strategic, future‑focused opportunity we are elevating in Canberra while working with state counterparts on approvals and industry development pathways.
Many residents will rightly ask, “What about projects like the Forrest Beach boat ramp?”
We agree those local amenities matter, and we continue to progress planning and advocacy so they are ready when the right funding programs open.
The priorities we are advancing today meet four tests on a national stage:
• they enable housing and jobs now
• they deliver strong economic and social returns
• they protect essential services
• and they are ready, aligned and co‑fundable right now.
Face‑to‑face conversations matter because they let us present local evidence directly, answer detailed questions in real time, align timelines and program settings, and build the trust and accountability that lead to commitments.
Being in the room moves projects from discussion to delivery.
Read more in Townsville Enterprise’s Unlock the North plan: www.townsvilleenterprise.com.au/advocacy/unlock-the-north/
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