Optimise Health and Wellness is a proudly locally owned and operated NDIS and Aged Care provider dedicated to building authentic relationships and strengthening community capacity. With a growing team of over 50 passionate professionals, we deliver high-quality, person-centred care that empowers individuals to reach their goals.

Our multidisciplinary team—including Occupational Therapists, Psychologists, Exercise Physiologists, Therapy Assistants, Case Managers, Support Workers, and dedicated admin staff—works collaboratively to meet the diverse needs of our clients. Research consistently shows that multidisciplinary teams lead to better outcomes, higher satisfaction, and more efficient service delivery. Our integrated model ensures communication, coordination, and effective care planning across disciplines.

We are committed to using the latest evidence and research to inform our practice. Continuous quality improvement is embedded in all areas—from service delivery to staff training and strategy—ensuring our services evolve with changing needs and deliver meaningful results.

Recent structural enhancements have strengthened quality and deepened the connection between participants and leadership, improving satisfaction, communication, and staff support.

We believe true impact comes from working closely with participants and their families. By understanding each person’s goals and values, we tailor services to ensure outcomes are both clinically sound and personally meaningful. Our team proudly supports each individual’s journey and celebrates every milestone.

Cultural safety is at the heart of our values. We are committed to delivering respectful, inclusive services—particularly for First Nations communities—while honouring cultural identity and connection.

Our Consumer Advisory Group ensures participant voices guide governance, service development, and quality improvement, keeping us aligned with what matters most.

As a local employer, we invest in the future through school-based traineeships and career development, building a skilled, consistent workforce and fostering a supportive culture.

Grounded in our core values—client-centred care, innovation, ethical practice, diversity, safety, fiscal accountability, and teamwork—Optimise Health and Wellness is more than a service provider. We are a team committed to improving health outcomes, growing community capacity, and building a more connected, inclusive future for all.

For decades, Carey Group has been a trusted name in accounting across Queensland, widely recognised for delivering accurate, reliable, and personalised financial services. While our reputation as a leading accounting firm is well established, we offer far more services.

With over 70 years of combined experience, the Carey Group team brings deep expertise to a broad range of financial services including Accounting, Financial Planning, Auditing, Bookkeeping, Business Consulting, and Self-Managed Super Funds (SMSFs). Our goal is to help individuals, families, and businesses achieve financial clarity and long-term success through holistic, tailored strategies.

Our clients benefit not only from technical precision but also from the warmth and care of a firm that values relationships. Carey Group continues the proud tradition of family business while embracing the tools, insights, and infrastructure of a modern financial services provider. We pride ourselves on delivering up-to-date, expert advice without losing the personal touch.

From helping businesses streamline operations and improve profitability, to guiding individuals through retirement planning and wealth creation, our experienced partners offer strategic support at every stage of life and business. Whether you need assistance with compliance, growing your business, or managing your superannuation, Carey Group is here to guide you with integrity and professionalism.

As a firm built on ethical foundations and progressive thinking, Carey Group is proud to serve a diverse client base across regional and metropolitan Queensland. Our commitment to excellence has earned us a strong reputation in the industry and the communities we serve assisting in accounting and financial matters with accuracy and focus.

We invite you to explore how our team can support your financial journey beyond the basics of accounting. At Carey Group, we offer more than numbers—we offer peace of mind.

Carey Group proudly serves clients from five Queensland locations: Townsville, Ingham, Cairns, Tablelands, and Brisbane. Book a consultation with us today!

Hinchinbrook is one of the many Queensland regions set to benefit from a major social housing construction boom, with 27 new social and affordable homes currently under construction or under contract in the region as of 28 February 2025.

The new housing is part of the Crisafulli Government’s Securing Our Housing Foundation Plan, which has accelerated the delivery of 5,000 social and affordable homes across the state in just four months.

Minister for Housing and Public Works Sam O’Connor said the government was committed to fixing Labor’s housing crisis and supporting Queenslanders in need.

“We’re getting on with the job of building more social and affordable homes right across the state to ease Labor’s Housing Crisis,” Minister O’Connor said.

The statewide pipeline includes over 3,100 homes already being built, with an additional 1,800 contracted to begin, delivering a 6 per cent boost to Queensland’s total social and affordable housing stock.

Homes are being rolled out in every corner of the state — from the Gold Coast to Goondiwindi, and Palm Island to Pormpuraaw — with Hinchinbrook Shire’s 27 homes a welcome addition to help meet local demand.

With rental stress and housing availability top of mind for many, the new homes represent a much-needed investment in the future of the Hinchinbrook community.

“This is just the start of our housing delivery - we’re rebuilding our housing system from the ground up and backing our builders to get more homes for Queenslanders faster.”

As the official election campaign begins, Australians can expect a flurry of promises, policies and political rallies. While most attention will focus on the House of Representatives, where government is formed, the Senate plays an equally crucial role. Often overlooked during campaigns, the Senate is a powerful chamber where no party currently holds a majority. Labor holds 25 seats, the Coalition 30, with the rest shared by the Greens (11), One Nation (2), Jacqui Lambie Network (1), United Australia Party (1), and six Independents. Winning government in the lower house is only part of the story.

What Is the Senate?

The Australian Parliament comprises two houses: the House of Representatives (lower house) and the Senate (upper house). The Senate serves as a house of review, scrutinising legislation proposed by the House of Representatives. It has the power to amend or reject bills, except for appropriation (money) bills, which it can only reject or defer.

Composition of the Senate

The Senate consists of 76 members:

• States: Each of the six states elects 12 senators, regardless of population size.
• Territories: The Australian Capital Territory and the Northern Territory each elect two senators.

State senators serve fixed six-year terms, with elections held every three years to replace half of the state senators. Territory senators serve terms concurrent with the House of Representatives, typically three years.

Powers and Responsibilities

The Senate's primary functions include:

• Legislative Review: Examining, amending, or rejecting legislation passed by the House of Representatives.
• Committee Work: Conducting inquiries into various issues, allowing for detailed examination of legislation and government activities.
• Representation: Ensuring equal representation for all states, balancing the population-based representation in the House of Representatives.

The Senate plays a crucial role in maintaining checks and balances within the federal government, often influencing the legislative agenda, especially when the government does not hold a majority in the Senate.

Voting for the Senate

In the 2025 federal election, voters will receive two ballot papers: one for the House of Representatives and one for the Senate.

Senate Voting Methods:
• Above the Line: Number at least six boxes for parties or groups in order of preference.
• Below the Line: Number at least 12 boxes for individual candidates in order of preference.

This proportional representation system ensures that the composition of the Senate reflects the diverse views of the electorate.

Senators Up for Re-election in 2025

In this election, 40 of the 76 Senate seats are contested:
• State Senators: Half of the state senators (six from each state) whose terms expire on 30 June 2025.
• Territory Senators: All four territory senators, as their terms align with the House of Representatives.

In Queensland, the following senators' terms expire in 2025:

• Nita Green (Labor)
• Susan McDonald (Liberal National)
• Gerard Rennick (Independent)
• Malcolm Roberts (One Nation)
• Paul Scarr (Liberal National)
• Larissa Waters (Greens)

The remaining six Queensland senators' terms expire in 2028.

Importance of the Senate in Governance

The Senate's composition can significantly impact the government's ability to pass legislation. A government without a Senate majority must negotiate with minor parties and independents, making the Senate a powerful body in shaping national policy.

Understanding the Senate's role is vital for informed voting. As the 2025 federal election approaches, voters are encouraged to consider the Senate candidates and their potential influence on Australia's legislative process.

This information is designed to be a guide only, for more information on candidates and voting procedures, visit the Australian Electoral Commission's website at www.aec.gov.au.

2025 Candidates in Ballot Paper Group Order (56 Candidates)

Group A – Socialist Alliance
• Jonathan Strauss
• Kamala Emanuel
Group B – Trumpet of Patriots
• Harry Fong
• Robert McMullan
• David McClaer
Group C – Indigenous - Aboriginal Party of Australia
• Wayne CoCo Wharton
• Marnie Laree Davis
Group D – FUSION | Planet Rescue | Whistleblower Protection | Innovation
• Chris Simpson
• Frank Jordan
Group E – Australia’s Voice
• Michelle McDonald
• Cameron McClure Leckie
• Aidan McGuire
Group F – Jacqui Lambie Network
• Ange Harper
• Craig Schramm
Group G – Gerard Rennick People First | Katter’s Australian Party
• Gerard Rennick (Gerard Rennick People First)
• Robert Lyon (Katter’s Australian Party)
Group H – Australian Democrats
• Scott Frazer Roberts
• Luke Daniel Pullar
Group I – Liberal National Party (LNP)
• Paul Scarr
• Susan McDonald
• Stuart Fraser
• Sophia Li
• Yvonne Tunney
• Peter Zhuang
Group J – Australian Labor Party
• Nita Green
• Corinne Mulholland
• Peter Casey
• Danielle Shankey
• Melinda Chisholm
• Brianna Bailey
Group K – Great Australian Party and HEART Party
• William Bay (Great Australian Party)
• Catherine Smith (HEART Party)
Group L – Citizens Party
• Jan Pukallus
• Richard Frederick Healy
Group M – Animal Justice Party
• Michelle Jensz
• Gregory Dillon
Group N – Family First
• Katie Lush
• Karen Fuller
Group O – Legalise Cannabis Party
• Belinda Jones
• Melody Lindsay
Group P – The Greens
• Larissa Waters
• Navdeep Singh Sidhu
• Claire Garton
• Jennifer Cox
• Melissa McArdle
• Kirsten Kennedy
Group Q – Pauline Hanson’s One Nation
• Malcolm Roberts
• Geena Court
Group R – Sustainable Australia Party – Universal Basic Income
• Rhett Martin
• Ross Honniball
Group S – Libertarian
• Jim Willmott
• Lachlan Lade
Ungrouped Candidates
• Gilbert Holmes (Independent)
• Danny Donohue (Independent)
• Duke Wong (Independent)
• Jason Brown (Independent)

A major sustainability-focused training initiative washed over Hinchinbrook last week, as the final session of the OceanWatch Master Fisherman Program took place in Cardwell last Tuesday the 8th of April.

Delivered by national not-for-profit environmental organisation OceanWatch Australia, the program has travelled across the state, offering a series of six one-day workshops designed to boost environmental knowledge and promote sustainable fishing practices among professional fishers.

Master Fisherman Program Takes Place In Cardwell

OceanWatch spokesperson David Schubert said the training aims to equip Queensland’s inshore net fishers, particularly those operating in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, with tools to continue their work responsibly and ethically.

“These face-to-face training sessions are an opportunity to provide information about the latest research discoveries and practices involved in protecting the marine environment while fishing, especially safely handling interactions with what are called threatened, endangered or protected species (TEPs), such as turtles, dugong and sawfish,” shared David.

“It is also an opportunity to bring fishers together formally and exchange information and observations amongst the fishers themselves, so they benefit from each other’s practical experience on the water - these fishers are on the water virtually every working day and have enormous knowledge about the marine environment.”

Sessions were previously held in Townsville, Ayr, Mackay, Gladstone, and St Lawrence, before wrapping up in Cardwell and David believes the program is about more than just theory.

“We believe the OceanWatch Master Fisherman program can play an important role in protecting vital habitats, promoting healthy waterways and ensuring the long-term sustainability of marine ecosystems, while providing top-quality seafood products to the public,” added David.

OceanWatch CEO Lowri Pryce also travelled from Sydney to attend the Cardwell session, emphasising the value of formal recognition for participating fishers.

“The fishers participating in this program are recognised by OceanWatch as our Master Fishermen,” Lowri said.

“They value our marine environment and do their utmost to keep it healthy and productive through their actions on water and this program paves a way for fishers to demonstrate ethical and responsible practice, so they can continue to bring seafood to Queensland families.”

An ongoing initiative supported by the Australian Government, the program is delivered in partnership with the Queensland Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries and will launch a series of digital modules this August to continue strengthening the link between commercial fishing, conservation, and community trust.

To access more information, visit www.oceanwatch.org.au or view the program’s introductory video by searching OceanWatch Master Fisherman.

2025 April Public Holiday Facility Closures

Council wishes to inform the community that several facilities will be closed due to the Easter Public Holidays and the ANZAC Day Public Holiday.

Lannercost Street Office and Council Works Depot
•              Closed Friday 18 April and reopening Tuesday 22 April 2025; and
•              Close Friday 25 April and reopening Monday 28 April 2025.

Halifax Sub-Branch Library
•              Closed Friday 18 April and reopening Tuesday 22 April 2025; and
•              Closed Friday 25 April and reopening Saturday 26 April 2025.

Halifax Resource Recovery Centre
•              Closed Friday 18 April and reopening Saturday 19 April 2025;
•              Closed Sunday 20 April and reopening Wednesday 23 April 2025; and
•              Closed Friday 25 April and reopening Saturday 26 April 2025.

Hinchinbrook Visitor Information Centre (HVIC) will be opening at 9.00am on Friday 18 March 2025. The HVIC will be operating daily from 9.00am to 4.00pm.

Warrens Hill Landfill and Resource Recovery Centre will remain open on Friday 18 April and Friday 25 April 2025.

Domestic Wheelie Bins will continue to be serviced as normal.

JL Kelly Theatre, Hinchinbrook Shire Library and TYTO Regional Art Gallery will remain closed until further notice due to damage sustained from the severe weather event earlier this year.

For further information or enquiries, please contact Council on 4776 4600.

With deer breeding season fast approaching, the Centre for Invasive Species Solutions is reminding communities of the heightened risk of feral deer on the road as well as increased activity and damage across Australia’s landscapes, including in suburban streets.

Dr Annelise Wiebkin, National Deer Management Coordinator, says feral deer cause serious damage in farmland, native bushland and urban areas and that the breeding season is a particularly critical time to notice their presence and manage their impacts.

“Feral deer activity will intensify in the coming weeks, so people may see deer more often or even for the first time in a new area. It’s important that the community reports sightings on the free DeerScan app,” Dr Wiebkin said.

“We have a small window of opportunity to track their spread and support control efforts, particularly in areas where feral deer numbers are still low.”

“Feral deer trash and eat native vegetation, ringbark trees, create wallows, trample undergrowth and spread weed seeds, all things that threaten the survival of native flora and fauna,” Dr Wiebkin said.

The Centre’s Chief Executive Officer, Shauna Chadlowe, warns that feral deer are becoming an increasing concern to communities across the country, with extreme weather events – such as droughts, floods and fires – pushing them into new areas.

“It’s astonishing – deer have now spread to every state and territory in Australia,” she said.

“We need everyone to stay alert.

“Every Australian can play a role by reporting feral deer sightings or signs, like tracks and damage. These reports are crucial – they help drive coordinated efforts to control new deer populations before they spiral out of control.

“By acting now, we can stop their spread and save Australia millions of dollars each year,” she added.

Weeks after the weather event that caused devastation across the town, the Ingham community continues to rebuild. Despite severe damage to the Mental Health Hub, selectability’s local team has worked tirelessly to keep services running, and ensure vulnerable members of the community had access to essential support and services.

Recently the team celebrated new milestone: setting up the Mental Health Hub in Canegrowers Building (11–13 Lannercost Street) — and they’re settling in nicely!

Regional coordinator, Julie Ross, said that she was grateful for the support helping them quickly secure the new location: “It’s great to see our little community come together to make things happen,” said Julie.

“We deliver essential services to those in the community that need them most and to have the support of the community to help us do this means that we can get back to business as usual a lot faster.”

Julie thanks the Ingham community and reminds others that selectability is still operating, just out of a different location: “To celebrate the move, we’re throwing open our (temporary) doors to the whole community! Drop in on 23 April from 10:30am-12:30pm, meet the team, and discover the range of services and programs we offer."

Selectability will provide regular updates on the progress of repairs but in the meantime, if you have any questions about our services in the region, please don’t hesitate to contact the team or visit their website!

WHAT: Selectability's Open Day
WHEN: Wednesday 23 April, 10:30am – 12:30pm
WHERE: Mental Health Hub in Canegrowers Building, 11–13 Lannercost Street

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The Cassowary Coast has joined an elite group of global destinations after officially receiving Ecotourism Australia’s prestigious ECO Destination Certification - a significant step forward in the region’s commitment to sustainable tourism and environmental conservation.

The internationally recognised certification highlights the region’s efforts to implement eco-friendly practices, reduce environmental impact, and preserve its natural assets for future generations. The recognition places the Cassowary Coast alongside nine other Queensland destinations that have achieved certification through funding from the Crisafulli Government’s Eco-certified Tourism Destination Program.

The program, which provides up to $150,000 in grants, aims to position Queensland as a world leader in eco-tourism and support local communities in developing sustainable tourism practices.

Minister for the Environment and Tourism, Andrew Powell, praised the Cassowary Coast’s achievement and emphasised the importance of eco-certification in the state’s long-term tourism strategy.

“As the travelling public grows more conscious of their environmental footprint, ecotourism certification has become a pathway for ensuring meaningful and sustainable travel experiences,” said Minister Powell.

“The Cassowary Coast’s new Certification assures holidaymakers that their choices support local communities, protect natural habitats and contribute to sustainable development.”

Cassowary Coast Mayor Teresa Millwood welcomed the announcement, calling it a proud moment for the region.

“It has been quite the journey to achieving ECO Destination Certification on the Cassowary Coast - it’s a well-earned certification that highlights our commitment towards protecting our natural environment while promoting sustainable tourism,” said Mayor Millwood.

“We thank the community and the Queensland Government for their support towards this achievement which recognises the region’s dedication to preserving our rainforests, beaches, and wildlife, ensuring they can be enjoyed responsibly for generations to come.”

Under the new government’s Destination 2045 vision, sustainable tourism is being prioritised as a key driver of regional development and Ecotourism Australia CEO, Ms Elissa Keenan, congratulated the Cassowary Coast on achieving certification, highlighting its potential to become a flagship destination for eco-conscious travellers.

“This accomplishment highlights the region's dedication to globally recognised sustainable tourism practices and strengthens its position as a leading ecotourism destination,” highlighted Ms Keenan.

With the ECO Destination Certification now under its belt, the Cassowary Coast is set to attract a growing number of eco-conscious travellers looking to immerse themselves in pristine rainforests, tranquil beaches, and culturally rich experiences all while treading lightly on the environment.

One of Hinchinbrook’s most iconic facilities will soon have a facelift with works set to commence this April at the infamous Lucinda Jetty and Warf.

Constructed in 1979, the Lucinda Jetty and Warf provides deep water access to large ships in the raw sugar trade to support the region’s booming sugar cane industry.

April’s upgrade has been implemented following allocations made as part of Sugar Terminals Limited’s $30 million investment towards the Lucinda Jetty and Warf, with periodic works set to be carried out across the next five years.

Construction began on the 7th of April to replace the Jetty’s access ramp with further demolition and refurbishment works scheduled over the six weeks commencing on the 6th of May until the 17th of June. Weather permitting, QSL Operations hopes to have the full upgrade completed as soon as the 22nd of July.

Alongside general construction, the scope of work will encompass the removal and replacement of the concert deck units, refurbishment of the existing piles and headstocks and occasional tree trimming as required to facilitate crane movement.

The Lucinda community can expect increased industrial traffic access on Bruce Parade and the vacant Port land adjacent to the Sugar Terminal will also be utlised to stage office facilities. All works will take place between the hours of 6am to 6:30pm and alternate pedestrian access will be provided outside of demolition periods.

QSL Operations wishes to advise the public there will be restricted access to the beach across the duration of this project, and to direct all inquiries to QSL’s Manager Asset Services and Business Performance, Monica Accornero at monica.accornero@qsl.com.au or 0448 369 185.

 With heavy hearts, the Australian-Italian Festival Committee issued an official statement on Wednesday the 9th of April outlining 2025’s event will not go ahead as planned.

The Committee made the decision last week following lengthy discussions in consideration of 2025’s destructive floods and the devastating impact the weather event had across the Hinchinbrook Shire earlier this year.

“The Committee considered the extent of devastation and impact to the Ingham community following the February flooding and realised that there was no other option but to cancel the Festival for this 2025,” published the Australian-Italian Festival Committee.

In November of 2024, the community were overjoyed to read the Australian-Italian Festival would celebrate its 30th anniversary this June, especially following plenty of rumours the beloved celebration would not continue into the new year, however, following its cancellation, the future of the event remains uncertain.

Mr Pino Giandomenico, long term President of the Australian-Italian Festival Committee, was saddened to confirm 2025’s cancelation, and was particularly at a loss to call off the 30th anniversary celebrations.

“It was very sad to have to make this decision as the committee was looking forward to presenting our 30th Festival but the impact of the flooding on our sponsors, committee members and volunteers and the community in general left us no choice but to cancel," wrote Mr Giandomenico.

Plenty of hugs, messages of encouragement and words of support were sent Mr Giandomenico’s way from the Hinchinbrook Shire and beyond, with many extending their thanks to the Committee for dedicating so much time and effort into hosting such an iconic event.

“Let’s hope that the community stays strong and gets plenty of support to help rebuild so that the memories of the great contributions that the Italians have brought to this country by having these festivals are never forgotten by generations past, present and future - in bocco al lupo (good luck),” shared Domenico Taraborrelli.

Have you ever thought about opening your home to the world? This July and August, a group of bright and enthusiastic exchange students from across Europe will be arriving in Australia and they’re looking for loving host families right here in Hinchinbrook to help make their Aussie adventure unforgettable.

Volunteers are urgently needed to host these students, with placements coordinated through WEP (World Education Program), a not-for-profit student exchange organisation. Families, couples, and individuals are all encouraged to apply and all that’s required is a warm heart, a spare bed, and a desire to share a slice of everyday Australian life.

Each student comes with their own unique passions and personality, and all are eager to experience true Australian culture, school life, and way of living.

Among those hoping to be placed in Hinchinbrook are:
• E from Finland – a creative spirit who enjoys music, dance, travel, painting, and movies.
• L from Germany – passionate about theatre, cooking, reading, and exploring new places.
• C from France – loves playing music, badminton, gymnastics, sailing, skiing, and baking.
• A from Denmark – enjoys board games, playing cards, and keeping fit.

Hosting a student is more than just sharing your home, it's about building lifelong friendships, learning about another culture, and making a young person’s dream come true. Those interested in learning more about being part of such a rewarding experience are invited to call WEP on (03) 9598 4733.

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CANEGROWERS has welcomed Queensland Treasurer David Janetzki’s comments supporting the development of a domestic biofuels industry, during his speech to the Queensland Energy Club in Brisbane today.

“The sugarcane sector is ready to see a biofuels industry take off in Queensland, with cane as a key feedstock,” CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan said.

"It's great to see the Treasurer not just showing support, but taking on an important leadership role in driving the development of this emerging industry."

However, Mr Galligan, who sits on the State Government’s recently formed expert panel on biofuels, said that it’s time to move from talk to action.

“The airline industry is on board, the bioenergy sector is keen, and the emerging SAF industry is pushing forward with pilot projects – like the one recently launched by biofuels company Licella at the Isis Central Sugar Mill in Childers.

“The government clearly wants this too, so let’s make it happen.”

Mr Galligan noted that developing a biofuels industry in Queensland, with sugarcane as a central feedstock, is a key focus of the industry’s 2030 strategic roadmap – Sugar Plus: Fuelling the Future of Food, Energy and Fabrication.

“Queensland’s sugarcane industry already produces ethanol and green electricity, so we are well positioned to supply a sustainable aviation fuel industry that could help power the future of Australian air travel,” Mr Galligan said.

“But to give the industry the confidence to make the switch to biofuels production, a national feedstock strategy, supported by offtake agreements, is essential.”

As members of Bioenergy Australia, CANEGROWERS and the Australian Sugar Manufacturers have been advocating for the development of a national biofuels feedstock strategy for over a year.

“Our global competitors are way ahead on biofuels. We can’t afford to fall further behind. We need decisive action and meaningful government investment now,” Mr Galligan said.

“The development of a biofuels industry in Queensland won’t just help Australia meet its emissions targets – it will also boost energy security, boost the economy, and stimulate regional agricultural and industrial growth.

“We appreciate the Treasurer’s support, but what we really need now is a strong commitment from both State and Federal governments. That starts with a national feedstock strategy,” Mr Galligan said.

Between work, school, sport, and daily commitments, family life can often feel like a whirlwind however, even amidst the hustle, there are simple and meaningful ways to stay connected with one another with no special occasion or school holiday required!

Creating time for regular family routines can have a lasting impact on children’s wellbeing and development. Whether it’s sitting down for a shared dinner a few times a week, reading together before bed, or taking a short evening walk around the neighbourhood, these little pockets of time help build stronger relationships and a sense of belonging.

Communication is key, especially during busy school terms. Asking open-ended questions like “What was a highlight of your day?” or “Was there anything tricky about your day?” can help children open up and reflect. Even a few minutes of focused conversation can go a long way in making kids feel heard and supported.

Weekends can also offer a chance to reconnect as a family, even with just a few simple activities. A visit to the local markets, cooking a meal together, or doing a DIY project in the backyard are great ways to get everyone involved. Especially within the Hinchinbrook Shire, families are lucky to have loads of natural beauty right on their doorstep from local parks and beaches to walking trails and wildlife!

While big family holidays and outings are wonderful, it’s the consistent small moments that truly strengthen the bonds between parents, children, and siblings. Making space for laughter, conversation, and kindness in everyday life helps create a strong foundation for growing families. Connection doesn’t require perfection. It’s about showing up, being present, and enjoying each other’s company, one day at a time.