The government’s Reconstruction Monitoring operation is now underway across Queensland, with Hinchinbrook among the regions where disaster-impacted homes and businesses will receive in-person visits from Queensland Reconstruction Authority (QRA) officers this month.

Running from Monday the 9th of June to Friday the 27th of June, the three-week state-wide operation will see QRA officers door-knocking more than 3,400 properties across 21 local government areas, including the Hinchinbrook Shire, to check on recovery progress and the wellbeing of residents following recent severe weather events.

The Hinchinbrook visits were scheduled for the week of Monday the 16th of June to Friday the 20th of June, focusing on areas affected by the North and Far North Tropical Low floods of early 2025.

The monitoring program also covers recovery assessments from other major events including Tropical Cyclones Jasper, Kirrily and Alfred, as well as the 2023 South East Queensland Christmas storms.

Minister for Disaster Recovery Ann Leahy said the government is determined to ensure that no Queenslander is forgotten after a disaster.

“This Government stands shoulder to shoulder with every Queenslander impacted by our recent natural disasters,” Minister Leahy said.

“The intel we gather from our Reconstruction Monitoring operations is unmatched and will make sure recovery reaches every corner of the State and this is an unprecedented Reconstruction Monitoring operation for Queensland, capturing insights from five separate disasters, but we are determined to leave no stone unturned with our recovery efforts.”

QRA CEO Major General Jake Ellwood (Retd) encouraged Hinchinbrook residents to speak with officers when they visit.

“These operations are crucial to inform QRA’s recovery work and where we need to focus our attention,” Major General Ellwood said.

“Our June assessments are going to be particularly valuable for understanding the support needed for communities impacted by multiple major disasters in a short period and if you need disaster recovery support and see a QRA officer in your area, please stop and chat. We are here for Queenslanders.”

During each visit, QRA officers will gather information about property repairs, insurance claims, and the overall wellbeing of residents. This data will help coordinate additional recovery efforts between councils, state agencies, and other support organisations.

For more information on the Reconstruction Monitoring program, visit www.qra.qld.gov.au/reconstruction-monitoring.

Over the last few weeks, there have been more welcome announcements from the Queensland and Australian Governments, with extra support measures for small businesses and primary producers.

The Small Business Recovery Assistance Grant provides financial assistance of up to $15,000 to eligible small businesses in Ingham and other affected areas in North Queensland, to help them re-establish operations and maintain employment after the 2025 North and Far North Tropical Low event. The grant is available to small businesses within the defined disaster areas that experienced significant trading disruptions, including ceasing trade or suffering a revenue loss of 60% or more for at least two consecutive weeks due to the disaster.

The other major announcement is something that many stakeholders have been advocating for a long time — the change in the definition of a primary producer. In a statement released by the Federal and State Governments, it was announced that more Queensland producers will now be able to access support under changes to the joint Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.

A primary producer whose income includes agricultural support services, such as cane harvesting, is now eligible for primary producer DRFA grants, as this is considered primary production income. This means disaster-affected farmers who may have previously been ineligible for assistance in Queensland can now apply for support measures like Disaster Recovery Grants and Loans.

Whilst this is very welcome news, I believe there is room to further improve this definition. In my opinion, it should include that any loss of agricultural land — food production land — damaged or lost due to a severe weather event should be eligible to be restored to its pre-event condition with assistance from Disaster Recovery Funding, regardless of where the owner’s income comes from.

After all, it’s about protecting agricultural and food-producing land and supporting those who farm it.

Please pop into the Hinchinbrook Information and Referral Centre at 73-81 Lannercost Street, Ingham, if you require any assistance.

Until next time Hinchinbrook residents — take care, stay safe, and be kind.

There’s something special about the people of Ingham — and the recent recognition of Carina Chesson, Felix Reitano and Patrick Brown just proves it.

Too often, we fall into the trap of tall poppy syndrome — the idea that success should be cut down rather than celebrated. But not here, not now. It’s time we turn that thinking on its head. Let’s be loud and proud about the incredible people who are shaping and lifting up our community.

Take Carina Chesson — a beloved teacher at Ingham State High School and now officially a “Local Legend.” When we faced devastating floods in February, Carina didn’t wait to be asked. She became a lifeline — conducting welfare checks, distributing supplies, and working with emergency services to make sure help reached those in need. She acted with courage, compassion and the kind of quiet leadership that inspires a community. That’s the Hinchinbrook way.

Then there’s Felix Reitano — local real estate agent, lifelong volunteer, and now a recipient of the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM).

From his decades-long service to the Chamber of Commerce to his military background, JP duties, and tireless community involvement, Felix’s humility says it all: “You do these things because you like helping others.” In his late 70s, he’s still hard at work — and still making his town proud.

And Patrick Brown — our Ingham Ambulance Station Officer-in-Charge — has earned one of the highest honours in the country. With 46 years of service under his belt, Patrick has shown unwavering commitment to caring for others in some of the toughest situations imaginable. His legacy stretches far beyond emergency callouts — he’s a peer support leader, a chaplain, and a rock within our Local Disaster Management Group.

So, let’s do away with modesty for a moment. These individuals represent the best of us, and they deserve to be celebrated. To Carina, Felix, and Patrick — and to all those quietly making a difference — we see you, value you, and stand proud beside you.

Rebuilding Information Session

Local residents still navigating the complex challenges of recovery and rebuilding after recent disasters are invited to attend an important Rebuilding Information Session hosted by Centacare at the Cardwell RSL Sub Branch.

At previous sessions, attendees walked away with renewed motivation after their confusion and uncertainty were replaced with clear, practical steps forward. This upcoming evening aims to deliver the same outcome, offering vital information, guidance and one-on-one advice.

A strong line-up of expert speakers will cover key areas such as building and construction processes, insurance, financial support, mental health and community recovery.

Speakers on the night will include:

• William Courtney (Billy), QBCC – Building sites, scope of works, contractors, end-of-works handovers.
• Julie Maron, Legal Aid – Insurance, AFCA, legal advice.
• Zack Wildy, iCan – Financial counselling, debt management, financial support.
• Libby Carney, Queensland Government Community Recovery – State government grants, disaster funding arrangements.
• Pat Sim, Centacare FNQ – Recovery support and mental health.

This is a great opportunity for residents to connect directly with professionals who can help them take the next steps in their rebuilding journey.

Thanks go to Rob and Jeff from Cardwell RSL for generously hosting the event and providing afternoon tea and light refreshments. All residents are welcome. For more information, contact Centacare FNQ or Cardwell RSL.

WHAT: Rebuilding Information Session
WHEN: Thursday, 10 July 2025, 4:00pm to 6:00pm
WHERE: Cardwell RSL, 36 Roma Street, Cardwell

As the cooler months settle in, rats and mice may start seeking warmth and shelter inside your home. While these warm-blooded pests can survive outdoors, they are opportunistic and will not hesitate to sneak inside when given the chance.

Once indoors, rodents can quickly become a serious problem. They often chew through books, papers, and insulation to build nests, and can also gnaw on electrical cables hidden behind walls and cabinets, creating fire hazards. In addition to property damage, rodents can pose significant health risks to you and your family through the spread of bacteria and disease.

That is where local expert Michael Slater, The Pest Control Guy, comes in. Michael offers professional, reliable rodent control services designed to protect your home from unwanted invaders. Michael understands that pest issues can arise at any time, which is why he offers flexible scheduling to help tackle the problem as soon as possible, with appointments available six days a week.

If you suspect rats or mice have made themselves at home, do not delay. Taking swift action is the best way to prevent further damage and health concerns.

Call Michael Slater today on 0409 065 069 or 0439 722 311, or email appc147@gmail.com and let The Pest Control Guy help keep your home rodent-free this winter.

For anyone heading to the Dungeness boat ramp, the Channel Inn Shop has quickly become the go-to destination for fishing and boating supplies, and for good reason.

Located just metres from the boat ramp, the shop caters directly to the needs of fishers, boaties, and holidaymakers preparing for a day on the water. It is well stocked with essentials such as life jackets, flares, winch handles, ropes, bait, crab pots and a solid selection of tackle. This makes it a highly convenient one-stop shop with a broad range of supplies.

Fuel and ice are ready to go 24/7, and with the shop opening at 6:00am, you can grab what you need for an early start. And it is not just about the fishing gear, as plenty of locals and visitors stop in simply for the great coffee and fresh food. One recent customer shared her experience:

“We decided on a spontaneous fishing trip over the weekend with nothing prepared — not even a coffee! We stopped into the Channel Inn Shop, and I was blown away. We picked up bacon and egg toasties, antipasto, snacks, and great coffee (with our special milk — a rare find). It saved our trip.”

In addition to grab-and-go options, the store offers BBQ meats, frozen seafood, house-made pizzas, deli items and a well-stocked walk-in bottleshop fridge. This is particularly handy for those staying in local accommodation, with everything you need for a comfortable stay available in one place.

The Channel Inn Shop combines practicality with convenience, offering quality marine supplies, great food and drinks, and all the travel essentials you could need. Whether you are topping up on tackle, refuelling, or grabbing a coffee before hitting the water, this is the only stop you need to make.

For anyone launching from Dungeness or staying nearby, the message is clear: visit the Channel Inn Shop and you will find it all!

Prep: 10min | Cook: 25min | Serves 4

Ingredients
600g cauliflower, cut into florets
2 zucchini, coarsely chopped
6 Medjool dates, pitted, quartered
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp finely grated fresh ginger
2 tsp finely grated fresh turmeric
2 garlic cloves, crushed
2 tsp ground cumin
205g (1 cup) raw buckwheat
1/4 cup fresh mint sprigs
Lemon wedges, to serve
130g (1/2 cup) natural yoghurt

Method
Preheat oven to 200°C/180°C fan forced. Line a baking dish with non-stick baking paper. Scatter the cauliflower, zucchini and dates in the prepared dish. Drizzle with the oil. Add the ginger, turmeric, garlic and cumin. Toss well to coat. Season. Roast for 25 minutes or until golden and tender.

Meanwhile, cook the buckwheat in a saucepan of boiling water following the packet directions. Then drain. Note: You can add 1 tsp of vegetable stock powder to the buckwheat when cooking to enrich the flavour.

Serve the roasted vegetables sprinkled with buckwheat, mint and lemon wedges, and topped with yoghurt.

Great dish to serve at functions, accompanied with light meats like fish. You can even melt cheese over the top if you're feeling a bit naughty!

Kindness and community spirit are alive and well at Terry & Mamiko’s Cafe in Cardwell. Their 11th community tip jar has raised $122.35 for the Cardwell SES, a volunteer group dedicated to supporting the region in times of need.

Though it is a small jar, it continues to fill with the generosity of customers. Every coin and note collected goes towards helping local organisations that make a real difference in the community. The SES volunteers certainly appreciate this latest show of support.

The giving does not stop there. The cafe’s 12th community tip jar is now raising funds to support the Velocity Raptors from Gilroy Santa Maria College, Ingham. This talented team will soon head to Germany to compete in the world championships. One of their members is Nate, son of popular local educator Miss Suzette from Cardwell Early Learning.

There is also a donation jar in store to support the Cardwell Country Club’s Breast Cancer Awareness fundraiser, ahead of the Pink Party on Saturday 21st of June.

Next time you pop in, why not drop in some spare change? Every little bit goes towards an importand local cause!

The Ingham Show is back with a program packed full of entertainment, and once again the fan-favourite dog competitions are sure to draw big crowds.

If you have a pouncy pooch or a dashing dachshund, now is the time to get your fur-babies involved. On Friday, 27th June, the much-loved Wienerpalooza will take centre stage. The fun kicks off at 10:30am with the Sausage Dog Fancy Dress parade, followed by the famous Dachshund Derby big race at 11:00am.

There are two fun categories for these loveable long boys: Best Dressed and Fastest Dog of the Derby. Entry for sausage dogs is $10.

For those with high-energy pups, do not miss the Dog High Jump, taking place in the main arena on Thursday night, 26th June, from 6:30pm in the Centre Ring. Cattle dogs, Collies and other bouncy breeds always shine in this event. Entry is $15, so get your sky-flyers entries in!

To register for either event, message the Ingham Show Facebook page or text 0402 390 034. There are sashes, trophies and prize money up for grabs.

WHAT: Ingham Show Dog Competitions.
WHEN: Dog High Jump: Thursday, 26th June at 6:30pm & Wienerpalooza: Friday, 27th June from 10:30am.
WHERE: Ingham Showgrounds, Ingham.

Inka is a laid-back and easygoing lady who enjoys lounging around and observing the world around her. She thrives on playtime with her foster siblings and has a harmonious relationship with the variety of animals in her foster family's home.

Inka's friendly nature makes her a hit with kids, and she particularly loves splashing around in the water and trying out new games.

Being a young lady still, Inka is still working on her training but luckily, Inka comes equipt with the best set of listening ears, which makes her an A+ student. So, if you're looking for a playful companion who's ready to fill your days with laughter and love, then Inka is your girl! Let's start our forever adventure together.

Can't wait to meet you! To meet Inka, fill in an inquiry form at: www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html

Included in the adoption fee is DESEXING, MICRO-CHIPPED, up-to-date VACCINATIONS, FLEA/TICK/INTESTINAL WORM treated & on PROHEART.

Adoption: $450
DOB: 3/07/2024 - age 10 months.
Sex: Female
Breed: Bullarab x
Kid friendly: Yes
Cat Friendly: Yes
Other dogs: Yes
Fences: 6ft

Winter is the perfect season to get planting in the garden. If you live in a wet and dry tropical region such as our spot here in Hinchinbrook, North Queensland, there is plenty you can sow now to fill your kitchen with fresh produce during the cooler months.

Many of these crops are exactly what you want on hand for hearty winter meals. Think soups, roasts, tray bakes and big bowls of greens to nourish you through the cold season. Growing your own not only saves money, but it also brings great satisfaction to the table.

Now is the time to plant herbs such as dill, garlic, marjoram, mint, oregano, parsley, rocket, sage, Thai coriander and thyme. They will add wonderful flavour to your dishes and are easy to grow in pots or garden beds.

For fruit and vegetables, sow beans, bok choy, pak choy, broccoli, cabbage, capsicum, carrots, cauliflower, cucumbers, eggplant, kale, lettuce, peas, potatoes, pumpkins, radish, silverbeet, spinach, sweet corn and tomatoes.

Do not forget to plant some colour too. Marigolds, kangaroo paw and sunflowers will brighten the garden and attract helpful pollinators to keep everything thriving.

A well-planted garden now will keep your belly full and your kitchen warm all season long.

Simon Hood, Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

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As factories across our regions ramp up operations for the production season, the global sugar price remains under pressure.

Recent figures from Brazil, the world's largest sugar producer, show a strong fortnight of crushing activity in the second half of May, according to UNICA.  Brazil is now just 12% behind its 2024 crushing pace.  Its sugar mix reached nearly 52% for the period, bringing the season-to-date balance to an even 50/50 split between sugar and ethanol.  Brazil's CCS levels are finally improving after a slow start.

However, one key piece of the Brazil production puzzle remains uncertain: cane yield, or tonnes of cane per hectare.  This figure is gathered from various sources, but the industry standard often relies on CTC data.  The May report is due soon, and historically, May has marked the peak for yields.  Over the past 23 years, average crop yields haven't surpassed the May benchmark, so this next report will be one to watch.

Ethanol parity is another factor influencing the #11 sugar price.  There's talk the Brazilian government may raise its ethanol blending mandate from 27% to 30% a 10% increase that could support prices.  At the same time, however, Brazil's booming corn ethanol industry continues to add supply, which may offset some of the support for sugar prices.  Oil prices - which impact ethanol demand are on the rise, but they remain volatile due to global macroeconomic events.

In short, the price outlook remains uncertain.  Some market commentators suggest most of Brazil's 2025 export sugar has been hedged at stronger prices, while much of the remaining production, including grower sugar, is still to be priced.  For the first time, we're also hearing murmurs of demand softening, which is notable given sugar prices have fallen nearly 40% since their late 2023 highs.

With market pressure still weighing on prices, we're left hoping the old saying proves true - that low prices eventually cure low prices.

For those wanting to hear more about what is affecting the global sugar market, keep an eye out for our Global Traders Roadshow being held in July.  Wilmar's senior sugar traders Peter Bingham and Neil Foo will be presenting on the current state of play and what will be influencing prices this year.

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From the cane fields of Macknade to bookshelves across Australia, Angelina Mastrippolito’s debut memoir Le Seconde: Inheriting the Unspoken has made an inspiring impact. Her hometown launch, held at TYTO Conference Centre in Ingham, was a moving and memorable event, with more than seventy people gathering to celebrate her success.

Friends, family, childhood neighbours and past classmates filled the room to show their support, purchase a signed copy, and hear Angie speak about her journey. The warmth and love from the crowd was clear, as many connected personally to the story of growing up in what was fondly known as ‘Little Italy.’

Angie’s memoir explores life as a second-generation Italian woman, shaped by the complexities of migration, family loyalty and unspoken expectations. Her childhood in Far North Queensland’s cane fields was full of adventure, but also carried deep undercurrents. Her grandfather was an ardent fascist. Her father and grandfather wrestled with the shadows of an unspoken past. Her mother, caught between duty and defiance, quietly taught her young daughter a revolutionary song to irritate her father-in-law.

From these layered family experiences, Le Seconde paints a powerful portrait of identity, resilience and womanhood. Angie’s reflections, including vivid shared memories of tiptoeing through her mother’s kitchen, sparked both laughter and thoughtful discussion during the launch.

The event proved to be more than a book signing. It was a gathering of the Italian community, as many in the audience recognised their own stories in Angie’s words. A memoir of living between two worlds and unravelling family mysteries, Le Seconde clearly struck a heartfelt chord with everyone in attendance.

You've heard of true-blue Aussies who toil out in the heat.
They don't come any truer than Midway's Poet Pete.

Of all the dinkum farmers who breathe the Midway air -
hard yakka beef and cane men -
our Pete was called the Mayor.

Some years the bank was broken by cyclones, drought or rain.
Yet season after season - he'd up and go again.

Pete gifted me the magic - I use it all the time -
of painting Abergowrie by putting words in rhyme.

But waking up this morning - the earth began to shake.
My eyes were filled with water - I felt a gutting ache.

To think of Peter passing - I cannot contemplate.
I never thought I'd lose him, my rhyming bushy mate.

I can't believe it's happened. I can't believe he's gone.
It's hard to find a comfort in Peter passing on.

We've lost the Mayor of Midway, I've my old mate Pete -
I'm not so sure the frothies will ever be as sweet.

I'll see him at the river, and down at Midway Creek,
or way up in the mountains - at Abergowrie’s peak.

I'll see him in the canefields, or when my eyes are shut,
and where we crossed the Herbert - to fish at Brucey’s hut.

When mist descends on Gowrie, and morning light is pale,
I'll feel his spirit with me - where heaven spreads its vale.

We shared a love of Ireland - a place I'd never been.
But Peter’s tales inspired me to see that emerald green.

I'd give up all the poems - I'd give up all the rhymes,
to see him back at Midway - reliving happy times.

His sleep is now eternal, and just to Ingham's west,
by Midway’s rushing water - he'll take his final rest.

But loved ones never leave us - they never can depart
from what we hold inside us - the place we call the heart.

By Jonny Paul of Abergowrie.
Written 28/12/2024.

Author's Note: Peter Sheahan reached out to me when I moved to Abergowrie, took me under his wing - and gave me the gift of poetry.

Thanks for the laughs Pete, thanks for the beers, and thanks for the rhymes. You are dearly missed, though we’ll carry you with us always. Rest in peace my old mate. This poem is for you.

Hiya Hinchinbrook Shire! I was a very busy bee this past week, and I hope you all were too.

There were book signings, art exhibition opening nights (which I regret to have missed), and we all bid a fond farewell to one of our much-loved staff here at the Life Publishing Group as Ruby spreads her wings in the rewarding world of support work.

I nipped down to Airlie Beach to celebrate her new journey with my colleagues from the main office. We had some nibbles and drinks at Mulligan's, a delightful Irish sports bar, before sending her off the proper way with karaoke up on stage at Magnums, where we sang Don't Go Breaking My Heart by the wonderful Elton John.

With a future ahead of her as bright as those flashing club lights, I know Ruby will do well on the new path she has chosen. The only sad tidings come from Finn, the main office dog, who will sadly be losing a playmate as Ruby takes her fur-son Koa with her. All the best Ruby!

Victoria

Fun Fact: I first fell in love with Elton's music when he appeared on the Muppets Show and sang Crocodile Rock. He was colourful and dazzling in a mirrorball and rainbow feather suit and conducted singing crocodiles. He also sang a duet with Miss Piggy, and their performance, matching costumes and banter are core memories. Best VHS tape ever.

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