With sugarcane a likely source to meet Australian domestic needs for biofuels and bioenergy, Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR) is taking every opportunity to campaign for a Federal Government commitment to a world-leading sugarcane-based bioenergy industry.

QCAR was invited to present at the recent State Development Industry Breakfast at Townsville on 13 November, as well as join a panel of presenters who are involved in the biofuels and bioenergy sectors.

QCAR Herbert District Manager and Senior Technical Agricultural Officer Lawrence Di Bella and Chief Strategy Officer Michael Kern attended the breakfast, which attracted around 300 attendees. Also on the panel were Jet Zero CEO Ed Mason, Pongamia Farm Midway Limited’s Project Lead Mick Theobald and Qantas Sustainable Aviation Fuel Executive Manager Matt Hudson.

Mr Di Bella said Australia needed to move quickly to sure up the nation’s future domestic needs for fuel and power using sugarcane-based biofuels and bioenergy.

“The big question for our industry now is whether our government will make a commitment that will provide the platform for us to lead in developing a world-first sugarcane-based bioenergy industry.”

Australian Army Brigadier Ben McLennan, told attendees that Townsville was one of the biggest garrison cities in Australia and it was set to get even bigger, increasing an already significant demand for fuel and other resources under the Federal Government’s defence force strategy.

“This aligns with the Federal Government’s largest financial investment into defence since 1942,” Mr Di Bella said.

Currently, the enormous demand for fuel is filled predominantly by Singapore, China and Taiwan. Brigadier McLennan said Australia currently had less than a month of fuel reserves.

Mr Di Bella highlighted this urgency. Presenter Drew Penny, General Manager, Business Development at the Port of Townsville Limited provided an update on storage capacity and expansion plans. He said the Port was preparing for additional storage of fuels (biofuels) to meet Defence, general aviation and industry needs, with the proposed development of a Renewable Energy Hub already on the drawing board.

Representing the farming sector (sugarcane and rotational crops) on the panel, Mr Di Bella said current sugarcane industry arrangements, such as Cane Supply Agreements and access to feedstocks, were identified as one of the barriers to the development of a regional biofuels industry.

A total of 39 new Australian citizens took the pledge at a citizenship ceremony held on 24 November 2025 at the Innisfail Shire Hall. The event brought together families, friends, and community representatives to witness an important milestone for the conferees as they formally committed to their new life as Australians.

The new citizens originated from New Caledonia, South Africa, Argentina, Malaysia, Cambodia, the United Kingdom, Ukraine, the Philippines, New Zealand, Tonga, Kazakhstan, the United States, Russia, Brazil, China, Estonia, Hong Kong, Pakistan, and Germany. Their diverse backgrounds reflect the wide range of cultures and experiences that continue to strengthen the region.

Council extended a warm welcome to all conferees and congratulated them on becoming Australian citizens. They also wished them the very best for the future as they begin the next chapter of their lives as part of the community.

A total of 39 new Australian citizens took the pledge at a citizenship ceremony held on 24 November 2025 at the Innisfail Shire Hall. The event brought together families, friends, and community representatives to witness an important milestone for the conferees as they formally committed to their new life as Australians.

The new citizens originated from New Caledonia, South Africa, Argentina, Malaysia, Cambodia, the United Kingdom, Ukraine, the Philippines, New Zealand, Tonga, Kazakhstan, the United States, Russia, Brazil, China, Estonia, Hong Kong, Pakistan, and Germany. Their diverse backgrounds reflect the wide range of cultures and experiences that continue to strengthen the region.

Council extended a warm welcome to all conferees and congratulated them on becoming Australian citizens. They also wished them the very best for the future as they begin the next chapter of their lives as part of the community.

Bright and early on Thursday the 20th of November, the Cardwell RSL Sub Branch members gathered on the foreshore for a Department of Veterans Affairs sponsored walk. The Health Week participants walked from the Police Station to the Memorial and then back to the Seabreeze Café for an excellent breakfast supplied by Stuart Ward and his staff. Due to numerous alarm clock malfunctions, not everyone arrived on time. However, 35 members attended the Seabreeze breakfast. The Cardwell RSL Sub Branch is extremely grateful to the DVA for sponsoring this Health Week activity.

Contributed with thanks by Robert Lang President of the Cardwell RSL Sub Branch.

The GSM 1st XIII boys Confraternity Rugby League squad recently completed block 1 of their 2026 preseason train and trial period, throughout Term 4. The young men were tested by coaches Matthew Spina (GSM “Confro Old Boy” & current A-Grade Herbert River player) and new staff member Annan Whittington (former Townsville Blackhawks and North Queensland Cowboys pathways coach) in weekly training sessions in the blistering heat, before meeting northern Confraternity neighbours Good Counsel College, Innisfail in their first trial match.

With some players unavailable through injuries and other commitments, GSM still fielded 21 players of differing experience levels in the preseason match, enabling eight young men the opportunity to play rugby league for the first time and earn valuable playing experience, before the squad is selected and announced in mid to late Term 1.

2026 marks the 30th anniversary of Gilroy Santa Maria’s inclusion in their first Confraternity Carnival in 1996, with the Carnival now growing to be the biggest schoolboy and schoolgirl carnival in Queensland, with well over 60 schools represented. GSM will honour the 30th anniversary of Confro at the college by returning to their roots with 1996 inspired playing jerseys for the 2026 carnival and other events for GSM "Confro Old Boys".

The GSM Rugby League program will also be implementing brand new initiatives in 2026, across the Under 13 and Under 15 junior age groups. The junior age groups will have the opportunity to take part in the Townsville Blackhawks Schoolboy Trophy and planning is underway for an u15 Development Tour, to assist with their development towards future Confraternity tours in 2027/2028 on the Gold Coast and Cairns.

In the Senior 1st XIII age group, the boys will be returning to training in Term 1 with gym, field sessions and further trial matches, ahead of competing in the Townsville Blackhawks Schoolboy Trophy in Term 2 and the Confraternity Carnival, held in Brisbane in 2026.

(Contributed with thanks by the GSMC Rugby League Program.)

Ingham, Noorla and Macknade gathered to mark the end of another strong year of men’s interclub competitions for 2025. The season wrapped up with plenty of camaraderie and a healthy dose of rivalry, as each club recognised the achievements that defined their year.

Congratulations to the following winners:
Terry White Trophy – Noorla
Moduline Trophy – Macknade
Royal Hotel Trophy – Macknade

A warm thank you goes to the trophy sponsors whose support helps keep this long-running tradition thriving.

Katter’s Australian Party (KAP) candidate for Hinchinbrook, Mark Molachino has confirmed his main priority once elected will be to ensure the shire does not lose its voice in statewide decision making.

Born, raised, educated and employed in Ingham, Mr Molachino has worked in the shire’s sugar industry from the farms to the processing mills for years, and has served in the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) for two and a half decades, with two deployments. Currently a small business owner himself, Mr Molachino and his six employees deliver professional vocational training to mining companies, and paired with his previous role as a RAAF Operations Officer, Mr Molachino’s professional resume of leadership and coordination speaks volumes.  

A committed family man, Mr Molachino and his wife, Lexy, enjoy spending their time with their three daughter, Scarlett, Zara, and Victoria, and their beloved mini dachshund, Walter. Whether out boating, fishing, water-skiing, or riding dirt bikes across the region’s tracks, the Molachino family enjoy the very lifestyle they hope to protect.

Since graduating from Gilroy Santa Maria College, Mr Molachino has gone on to study numerous Diplomas in Vocational Education, Project Management, and has acquired eight years of experience in local government, leading him to truly understand how intricately each level of government interact and operate.

Mr Molachino has been living and raising his family in the region for several decades, and with that in mind, he plans to prioritise the safety of both his family, and the shire if elected in this month’s by-election. The presentation of Castle Law in parliament stands as one of Mr Molachino’s main priorities to grant homeowners greater protections when defending themselves, their families, and their property against intruders, to ensure they are not unfairly penalised for taking reasonable action to stay safe.

Paired with his push for the implementation of Castle Law, Mr Molachino will continue the work of the KAP to place North Shore roadways back on the state’s agenda, a move he sees as a real investment along with floodproofing the Ingham Power Substation, the Gairloch and Seymour Highway and the greater shire.

With deep roots in the region, and a clear plan for meaningful, practical change to safeguard the future of the shire, Mr Molachino and Katter’s Australian Party are committed amplifying the Hinchinbrook Shire’s voice, to deliver the safety, infrastructure and representation the community deserves, furthermore ensuring the community’s needs are not only heard in parliament, but acted on.

LNP candidate for Hinchinbrook, Wayde Chiesa, says he is determined to deliver strong representation and practical outcomes for the region, drawing on his lifelong connection to the district and decades of experience across local industries and community organisations.

“I’m proud to be Ingham-born and bred, growing up on our family farm and spending weekends at Forrest Beach and playing footy,” Mr Chiesa said.

After finishing school, he moved to Townsville to study at university but says “Ingham has always been home.”

Across his career, Mr Chiesa has worked in a wide range of fields, from small and family businesses to senior roles in regional development. His experience includes serving as CEO of Regional Development Australia Townsville and Northwest Queensland, and as Director of Regional Development and Investment at Townsville Enterprise. He has also run his own business and spent 17 years as part of the Triple M Cowboys Call Team, calling Cowboys games and staying connected with communities right across North Queensland.

With Hinchinbrook heading into a by-election, Mr Chiesa views this moment as pivotal for securing a stronger voice at the state level.

“This by-election is a once-in-a generation opportunity to elect someone who can sit alongside David Crisafulli, around the table where decisions are made. For too long Hinchinbrook has been on the sidelines from Government but I want to change that,” he said.

Mr Chiesa’s key priority is tackling youth crime, advocating for a tougher, more consistent approach to community safety.

“I’m fighting for a sensible plan to deal with youth crime,” he said.

“The LNP’s Adult Crime, Adult Time laws are starting to hold youth criminals accountable but there’s a long way to go to fix a decade of Labor’s weak laws.”

He said the region needs “more police with better early intervention and rehabilitation that works – as well as CCTV in known trouble spots,” adding, “I’ll also fight for tougher bail laws for youth criminals, which I believe our State needs.”

Traffic congestion across Townsville’s Northern Beaches and improved local infrastructure also feature strongly in his platform.

Mr Chiesa has long championed key North Queensland industries including agriculture, manufacturing and tourism. If elected, he intends to focus on fixing Port Hinchinbrook, improving marine facilities, building flood resilience, and securing better roads for the district.

Community involvement has been a constant in his life, from volunteering with the Forrest Beach and Arcadian Surf Life Saving Clubs to serving as Treasurer of the Rotary Club of Townsville and helping organise the Townsville Triathlon Festival, however above all else, family remains his greatest motivation.

“My two kids, Lucy and Tommy, love spending time with their Nanna and Nonno here in Ingham,” he said, noting that those simple moments on the family farm remind him why Hinchinbrook deserves strong, local representation.

Former Member for Hinchinbrook Voted In As Townsville Mayor

By Rachael Smith

Following a whirlwind campaign and a significant leap of faith, former Member for Hinchinbrook Nick Dametto has won his bid to become the next Mayor of Townsville.

Dametto stepped down from his role as local MP just over a month ago, stating that he wanted to give Townsville the Mayor it deserved.

On Saturday night, Dametto claimed victory and is now Mayor-elect, ahead of the formal declaration expected in the coming days.

Nick Dametto Becomes Mayor of Townsville

After serving as Member for Hinchinbrook for the past eight years and Deputy Leader of Katter’s Australian Party since 2021, Nick Dametto made the bold decision last month to run for Townsville’s Mayoralty.

Acknowledging the move as a ‘step down’ and a ‘wage cut’, Dametto said the decision was driven by a bigger purpose — giving the people of Townsville the leader they deserve.

“I want Townsville to be proud of the leader they’ve elected,” Dametto stated on Monday morning.

“I want to give them someone who can act as an ambassador for the region, I want to help deliver pride and prosperity for all.”

Dametto thanked residents of the Hinchinbrook Shire for their support over the past eight years.

“Thank you for backing me for all those years – we wanted to leave Hinchinbrook in a better place than when we started, and I believe we did that.”

Committed to a grassroots campaign, Dametto said he spent considerable time engaging directly with the community throughout the election period.

“It was almost like a silent auction” he shared, referring to the postal-vote system used over the weekend.

Rather than being at polling booths, Dametto spent Saturday speaking with residents at a local tavern before heading to the vote-counting centre at 6pm.

He watched the tallying with scrutineers and said that “from the out-set there was strong support”, and by 9pm he believed it was a “done deal”.

Dametto praised his Campaign Manager, Catherine Holden, who he described as “an absolute God-send”, and acknowledged Matthew Pew for organising a dedicated team to deliver pamphlets.

“I would also like to thank everyone who supported me in any way – from displaying a bumper sticker to putting up a core flute – every gesture was a huge help.”

The Electoral Commission of Queensland is expected to officially declare the Mayoralship in the coming days. Once Dametto receives the paperwork, he will be sworn in.

When asked what his first few weeks as Mayor will look like, Dametto said he plans a ‘back to basics blitz’.

“A big thing for me is the proper maintenance of the city – I want to give the people a city they can be proud of,” he shared.

“If they put out a bin on Wednesday night, they deserve to have it picked up on Thursday morning.”

Dametto added that he will be engaging with all Councillors and the CEO, noting he looks forward to bringing the Council together to work as a united team.

Following the announcement, Premier David Crisafulli expressed his support.

“The people of Townsville have strongly backed Nick Dametto for Mayor,” he said.

“This result will give this proud city the local leadership it needs and deserves.

“Congratulations Nick - our Government looks forward to working with you to deliver better outcomes for a great city.”

As Dametto steps into his new role, Hinchinbrook now awaits a by-election to determine who will become the next local MP.

The election is scheduled for Saturday 29 November.

Candidates who have announced their intention to run include: Mark Molachino for Katter’s Australian Party, Wayde Chiesa for the Liberal National Party of Queensland, Maurie Soars for the Australian Labor Party, Amanda Nickson for Family First, Aiden Creagh for the Greens, Luke Sleep for One Nation, and Independent Steven Clare.

“With the upcoming by-election,” said Dametto, “I hope that the winners are the people of Hinchinbrook”.

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Hiya Hinchinbrookshire!

It feels like Christmas has finally crept into the region. My family puts up the tree as soon as Halloween is over, although it looks like plenty of others are now getting into the Christmas spirit as well. Lights are already appearing on houses and hedges, and posters, pickets, and even the occasional roadside VMS are popping up to tempt passersby with the promise of carolling and markets full of cheer.

The 47th Hinchinbrook Art Awards were also held last weekend. I even had a go and submitted two pieces, and I hope even more people enter next year. I would love to see the gallery filled from floor to ceiling, Salon Style. I also helped out at McHappy Day in Ingham with my newspaper co-star Sherie and the whole team at Maccas. It was a colourful and fun day, and I hope we raised plenty to support families in need.

It's the Schools feature this week in the paper, and I want to congratulate all the graduates and every student who has put in the hard yards to make it to the end of the year. Enjoy your Schoolies or your upcoming gap years, remember to stay safe, and have fun before getting stuck in at university or wherever life takes you.

Victoria

Fun Fact: On my gap year, I worked as a receptionist in an Irish hotel for a time. I also reconnected with old Irish family roots and visited the farm where my great-grandmother grew up.

Forrest Beach CWA Spreads Remembrance, Kindness And Respect

Hinchinbrook’s own Forrest Beach Country Women’s Association (CWA) were warmly thanked for their craftiness and kindness after last week’s Beach Armistice Day Remembrance Ceremony.

Held on Monday, the 11th of November, the Remembrance Day event provided the community with the opportunity to come together to reflect and honour the courage, sacrifice and spirit of those who served in defence of our nation. Residents and community groups gathered throughout the shire to observe a minute’s silence at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, along with millions of other communities at services held around the world.

Annually, the ladies of Forrest Beach CWA volunteer their time to crochet poppies to freely share with ceremony attendees as a true act of kindness and respect.

Officially adopted in 1919, red poppies serve as a symbol to represent remembrance for those who have lost their lives or suffered in times of war or conflict and are often worn on Remembrance Day as a way to honour the sacrifice of service members and veterans. In day-to-day life, some chose to wear a red poppy as a way of keeping the memory of those we have lost alive, continuing to respect the little flower as a global emblem of remembrance.

The ladies’ selfless gesture never fails to warm the hearts of the community, with locals often describing Forrest Beach CWA volunteers as dedicated, passionate, and beautifully kind women continuing to spread goodwill within the shire.

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A photographic artist and academic who proudly calls Ingham home has taken out the Open Award at the 47th Hinchinbrook Art Awards at the TYTO Regional Art Gallery last Friday night.

Ann Vardanega claimed the Open Award with her “Spirit of the Land” from a field of 113 entries, showcasing the incredible depth of creativity and talent within our region and beyond.

This annual event continues to provide a respected platform for artists of all levels to share their work in a professional gallery setting, reinforcing its place as one of North Queensland’s most valued cultural traditions. Nearly 180 guests gathered to celebrate the arts and recognise the outstanding achievements on display.

Cr Donna Marbelli said the Hinchinbrook Art Awards showcase the incredible talent within our community and beyond.

“Each piece tells a story, and together they create a rich tapestry of creativity that we are proud to celebrate,” Cr Marbelli said.

“We extend our sincere thanks to the sponsors and local businesses whose support makes these Awards possible. Their contributions help foster creativity and ensure the continued success of this important cultural event.”

The category winners:

• Youth Award “Sweetness of Decay” by Victoria Mingon (Entrant 35) Sponsored by: Wilmar Sugar and Renewables
• Painting “Before the Rain” by Rose Knight (Entrant 28) Sponsored by: Former Member for Hinchinbrook Nick Dametto
• Watercolour “Cairns in Motion” by Sahan Kulathunge (Entrant 41) Sponsored by: Herbert River Sub-Branch RSL Inc.
• Mixed Media “ICARUS now” by Ange Venardos (Entrant 45) Sponsored by: UP North
• Digital Art “Cooling Off” by Elliot Altmann (Entrant 70) Sponsored by: Cosca
• Works on Paper “Herberton Jacaranda” by Rose Watts (Entrant 87)
• Photography “Ripples” by Louise Torrisi (Entrant 97) Sponsored by: Ingham Family Medical Practice
• Ceramics “Coral Cluster” by Sally Moroney (Entrant 102) Sponsored by: Ingham Art Action
• Sculptural Form “Those Who Stand Long” by Alan Carpenter (Entrant 104) Sponsored by: San Souci Apartments
• Local Artist Award “The Weight of Water” by Kristina Fontana (Entrant 16)
• Indigenous Award “Nywaigi Dreaming” by Gail Marbo (Entrant 12)
• Open Award “Spirit of the Land” by Ann Vardanega (Entrant 92)

The exhibition will remain open to the public until Friday 19 December 2025, from 10:00am to 4:00pm daily at the TYTO Regional Art Gallery. Visitors are encouraged to explore the collection and cast their vote for the People’s Choice Award, which will be announced in early January 2026.

Hinchinbrook Shire Council advises that the Taylors Beach boat ramp will be temporarily closed to all users from Monday, 17 November to Monday, 1 December 2025.

This closure is required to support the biennial dredging of the Victoria Creek Navigation Channel, which will take place over a four-week period from Monday, 17 November to Wednesday, 17 December 2025, weather permitting.

Unlike previous methods involving excavation and sand transfer, this year’s works will use a dredger to remove material and pump it through a pipeline to a designated discharge area, as required by permit conditions. Unfortunately, the pipeline must cross the boat ramp.

Key dates and impacts:

• Site mobilisation begins: Thursday 13 November 2025;
• Dredging works commence: Monday 17 November 2025;
• Temporary parking bay closures may occur to accommodate machinery; and
• A 100m exclusion zone will be in place around the dredge and pipework during operations.

Council urges all users to follow signage and directions provided by the contractor for safety.

Alternative boat ramps are available at Dungeness and Forrest Beach during the closure.

Council appreciates the community’s patience and cooperation while these important works are carried out. An update will be provided once the boat ramp is ready to reopen.

For further information, please contact Council on 4776 4600.

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On the 12th of November, a member of the public reported a crocodile sighting within the stinger net enclosure at Forrest Beach. The sighting occurred outside of weekend patrol hours.

Upon receiving the report, we were notified immediately and our net supervisor promptly responded removing the net from the water to eliminate the risk to the public. After a safe period of monitoring, the net was reinstalled.

Surf Life Saving Queensland Lifesaving Services Coordinator for the North Barrier Branch and Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, were all notified.

As we know, North Queensland is crocodile country, and sightings can occur in both open and enclosed swimming areas any where along the north coast. We remind everyone to exercise caution, remain vigilant and follow all safety signage and lifesavers instructions when visiting the beach.

Your safety remains our top priority, and we thank the community for their continued awareness and cooperation.

(By the Forrest Beach SLSC)

Learn how to be crocwise and how to report sightings here https://www.qld.gov.au/environment/plants-animals/animals/living-with/crocodiles/becrocwise

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Communities across the Hinchinbrook region paused on 11 November to honour the service and sacrifice of Australia’s men and women in uniform. Cardwell and Ingham each held moving ceremonies that demonstrated the enduring respect locals hold for those who served, those who still serve, and those who never returned home.

In Cardwell, more than 80 attendees gathered at the Cenotaph for a solemn and well-supported ceremony. The Cardwell RSL Sub Branch once again showcased the strength of its volunteers and performers, with Piper Judith Tannoch—resplendent in full Scottish regalia—leading the commemoration with stirring bagpipes. She was joined by vocalist Colleen Tennent and bugler Adrian Frost, whose contributions set a dignified tone for the morning. The presence of former QATB officers underscored the depth of community connection.

In Ingham, residents gathered to reflect when, in 1918, the guns finally fell silent on the Western Front. Rodger Bow’s tribute reminded those assembled of the courage and sacrifice that shaped the freedoms enjoyed today. Wreaths were laid by community members and Australian diggers, flags were lowered, and the sound of the bugle echoed across the memorial space. It was a simple yet powerful ceremony, strengthened by the collective act of remembrance.

At 11:00am, the crowds observed a minute’s silence, standing together in quiet reflection. Lest We Forget.