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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In Cardwell, Queensland, The Australian UFO Festival has been announced as a successful recipient of funding through Homegrown – Queensland’s Destination Events Fund, an initiative delivered by Tourism and Events Queensland on behalf of the Queensland Government.
The funding will support the engagement of a professional consultant to develop a comprehensive three-to-five-year strategic plan, focused on strengthening governance, enhancing visitor experience, and ensuring the long-term sustainability and growth of the festival.
Festival Manager Thea Ormonde said the announcement marks an important milestone for the community-led event.
“We are incredibly grateful to Tourism and Events Queensland and the Queensland Government for recognising the value and potential of the Australian UFO Festival. Being selected through Homegrown – Queensland’s Destination Events Fund shows real confidence in this unique regional event and the role it plays in supporting tourism in North Queensland.”
Since its grassroots beginnings, the Australian UFO Festival has grown into a distinctive multi-day event blending science, storytelling, arts, community engagement and tourism that attract visitors from across Queensland and interstate.
“We’ve always had the vision of growing the Festival into a signature tourism event, not just for Cardwell, but for the Cassowary Coast and Queensland,” Ms Ormonde said.
“This funding allows us to build strong foundations for sustainable growth, ensuring we continue to support local businesses, attract visitors, and deliver a truly unique experience under the North Queensland stars.”
The strategic planning process will focus on long-term sustainability, programming development, partnership growth, and strengthening the festival’s contribution to Queensland’s dynamic events calendar.
Message from the Minister for the Environment and Tourism and Minister for Science and Innovation, the Honourable Andrew Powell MP who writes -
It is my pleasure to welcome you to the Australian UFO Festival, an event that celebrates the energy and diversity of the Cassowary Coast region.
The Queensland Government is proud to support the Australian UFO Festival through Tourism and Events Queensland’s Homegrown – Queensland’s Destination Events Fund, which backs events developed in our state and helps connect them with the unique destinations they call home.
Homegrown events play an important role in showcasing new ideas, celebrating culture, and creating memorable experiences for visitors, while contributing to Queensland’s vibrant and diverse events calendar.
Beyond the Australian UFO Festival, there is so much to see and experience in the Cassowary Coast. I encourage visitors to take the opportunity to explore the region and enjoy the wide range of tourism opportunities that Queensland has to offer.
I want to congratulate the organisers and all those involved in delivering the Australian UFO Festival for their outstanding efforts and for playing a vital role in Queensland’s dynamic Homegrown events sector.
The Australian UFO Festival will return to Cardwell in August 2026, continuing its celebration of curiosity, community and the unexplained.
For more information visit: www.australianufofestival.com.au
AA Business Services offers trusted, local taxation support tailored to individuals and small business owners across the Hinchinbrook region. Registered tax agent Alida Lee brings more than 25 years of industry experience, providing professional yet approachable service focused on helping everyday clients achieve the best possible outcomes.
Specialising in individual tax returns, rental properties, sole traders and small businesses, Alida understands that many clients simply want clear advice and reliable support without the complexity often associated with larger firms. No job is too small, from straightforward personal returns to small business taxation needs, AA Business Services works closely with clients to ensure they remain organised, compliant and confident throughout the process.
Late tax returns are also welcome, with efficient systems allowing overdue lodgements to be completed quickly and without unnecessary stress. Locally based in Halifax, they proudly support the wider Hinchinbrook community with honest and dependable taxation services designed for the little guy, delivering big service and real results.
Staying hydrated is important, especially in the hot summer months and the humid weather all Queenslanders experience. Hydration is essential for every cell, tissue and organ in your body to function properly.
Did you know the human body is about 60% water?
With help from Hydralyte, you can stay hydrated and help relieve these symptoms:
Consider Hydralyte, with its wide range of options and flavours, to help rehydrate you faster than water alone!
He is a beautiful boy with a kind heart and lots of love to share. He loves his toys and wants to share all of the fun with you. He loves to be your little shadow and is 100% invested in everything you do, he just loves being by your side. Pup is very intelligent already, with a full bag of tricks, knowing how to sit, shake, drop, roll over, spin and wait, and continuing to add more to his repertoire.
He is great with other dogs and would love a home where he could share it with someone who matches his energetic nature but would also adjust well to being an only dog (he loves being the centre of attention).
Pup is toilet trained, learning to walk nicely on a lead and is not destructive, just make sure he has a toy nearby. He is super affectionate and loyal. Come and meet him, it will be love at first sight!
If you’re interested in meeting Pupperoni, complete an animal enquiry form at: https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html.
Included in adoption fee of $495 Desexed, micro-chipped, up to date vaccinations, flea/tick/intestinal worm treated, and on PROHEART.
DOB: 14/08/2025
Sex: Male
Breed: Cane Corso x
Kid friendly: Yes
Cat Friendly: Untested
Other dogs: Yes
Fences: 6ft
BIN: BIN0000268254643
Submit your photo to the comments on the Ingham Photography Group Facebook page when the next prompt is announced for a chance to have your photo featured in the paper.
Cheryl Larsen Photography. Townsville Town Common, 24 January 2026.
Subject: Pheasant Coucal
Mama Shaz’s WildLife. Tyto Parklands, 11 July 2025.
Subject: Spangled Drongo - Caught in the Act
Herbert River sugar contractors and industry stakeholders will come together next month for an Information Night and Rural First Aid course focused on safety, business knowledge and industry collaboration ahead of the 2026 season.
The free Herbert River Sugar Contractors Information Night will be held from 5pm on Saturday, 7 March at the Noorla Bowls Club in Ingham.
Hosted by Link 2 Country Pty Ltd – Nicole Chiesa, with support from Jodie Morton of Safety & Learning Techniques – the evening will include discussion around workforce needs for 2026 and practical strategies to support contractors.
Topics include online support, a proposed Sugar Contractors Directory, and pathways for those wanting to work in the industry, along with practical approaches to record-keeping and pre-start systems using QR codes.
Canegrowers Herbert River will provide a district update, including haul-out training, 100-year celebrations, QRIDA disaster funding, primary producer definitions, re-planting and transport issues.
Westpac will outline business support options such as overdrafts, equipment finance, credit structures and insurance premium funding.
GlueTread AU will showcase its heavy-duty tyre repair system for tractors and off-road machinery, with sample kits on display and an exclusive attendee discount.
Earlier in the day, contractors can enrol in a Sugar Contractors Rural First Aid course for machinery operators and crews. Priced at $150 per person, the course runs from 10am to 4.30pm, with lunch included, ahead of the 5pm Information Night.
RSVP via the QR code or call Nicole on 0427 560 558.
Designed to replicate the natural look of timber, each plank features authentic wood grain detailing with a subtle embossed finish for a warm, homely feel underfoot. A tough UV-coated wear layer protects against everyday scratches, stains and fading, making it ideal for busy residential spaces.
TreadCore is 100% waterproof, making it suitable for kitchens, living areas and other moisture-prone zones when installed correctly. The planks are softer and warmer underfoot than traditional hard flooring and include a preattached EVA foam underlay to enhance comfort and reduce installation time.
Installation is quick and straightforward thanks to the Uniclic locking system, allowing the floor to float without nails or adhesives. TreadCore Hybrid Flooring is also easy to maintain, requiring only regular sweeping and damp mopping to keep it looking its best.
Manufactured by QEP, a global leader in plank flooring for over 20 years, TreadCore Hybrid Flooring is backed by a 25-year residential warranty, giving peace of mind alongside long-lasting style and performance.
The Government is delivering a plan for Queensland’s future and support to help primary producers, landholders and local governments to manage populations of feral pigs across Queensland.
A draft of the Queensland Feral Pig Management Action Plan 2026 –2031 has been released, inviting landholders, stakeholders and industry to have their say on the state’s coordinated approach to tackling one of Queensland’s most destructive pest animals.
The draft plan was developed through regional workshops, consultation and with stakeholder input, and aligns with the National Feral Pig Action Plan to ensure consistency with national objectives.
Feral pigs damage almost all crops, are known to kill lambs and native fauna, degrade waterways, can carry infectious diseases including serious diseases that can be transmitted to people.
This in action to control the population of feral pigs and allowed Queensland’s biosecurity sector to fightback after workforce attrition, cuts to staffing and the closure of the state’s northernmost biosecurity facility.
The Government is delivering action on Queensland’s feral pig population by investing in regional feral pig coordinators in six priority regions, as well as innovative techniques for control tools, which include an aerial control campaign currently underway to reduce feral pig populations in north-west Queensland during flood recovery.
An additional 100 biosecurity officers added to the front line, many of whom have already started work.
Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett said feral pigs were a destructive pest impacting farmers, graziers, foresters and ecosystems right across Queensland.
“This draft plan is about bringing everyone together behind a coordinated and practical approach to protect Queensland’s primary industries and environment.” Minister Perrett said.
“Feral pig management isn’t one-size-fits-all. What works in Cape York won’t be the same as what’s needed in the Darling Downs.
“Collaboration is critical because everyone has a responsibility to take reasonable steps to manage feral pigs on land under their control.
“This is why we’re working with landholders, regional groups and industry to ensure this plan reflects real-world challenges and solutions on the ground.”
Have your say on the Department of Primary Industries | Queensland's Feral Pig Management Action Plan - before 12th March 2026 to contribute to the Queensland Feral Pig Management Action Plan 2026-2031.
https://dpi.engagementhub.com.au/feral-pig-action-plan
With state-of-the-art equipment, outstanding service and a hands-on approach to every project, LiquaForce continue to prove they are shaping the future of fertilising across North Queensland. Servicing the region from Mackay to Mossman, the Ingham based, business has built a reputation grounded in reliability, innovation and genuine care for the communities it supports.
For years, LiquaForce has worked alongside local growers, understanding that success in agriculture is not just about products, but about people. Their commitment extends beyond paddocks and production figures, with a strong focus on supporting farming families, regional employment and the long-term sustainability of the agricultural industry. This close connection to the community has helped establish deep trust and lasting partnerships throughout the sugarcane and horticulture sectors.
LiquaForce has consistently delivered results by providing tailored liquid fertilising solutions designed to meet the specific needs of North Queensland soils and conditions. Their proven ability to service the agricultural and liquid fertilising requirements of the region has positioned them as a dependable partner during both challenging and prosperous seasons.
Following the acquisition by listed company RLF AgTech Limited in 2024, LiquaForce now offers an expanded range of advanced nutritional products and the capacity to support a broader variety of crop types. This growth strengthens their ability to deliver cutting-edge solutions while maintaining the local knowledge and community focus that define the business.
LiquaForce fertilisers deliver measurable benefits, including increased yields, improved sugar production, reduced labour demands and optimised nutrient efficiency. By minimising leaching and downtime, they help growers maximise outputs while protecting their land for future generations, reinforcing LiquaForce’s ongoing commitment to both productivity and community resilience.
Hello Hinchinbrook, let’s talk trees!
From time to time, Council receives a lot of feedback on social media when trees are removed or heavily pruned.
We understand why this can be upsetting especially when a large, shady tree is taken away in our hot climate, where shade is so important for sitting, walking, or even parking the car.
There are a variety of reasons why this is done.
Tree root systems can damage underground sewerage infrastructure, and as much as I love the majesty of a big old rain tree, they do have a bad habit of dropping limbs, despite Council engaging contractors to deadwood them annually, especially as they age.
Many of the trees in our Shire were planted many years ago, and sometimes they become sick or start to die, which also calls for removal. Poinciana trees are a good example of this; Council removed a large tree in Rotary Park late last year. Not only was it dropping large limbs, but the hollow trunk was home to a large beehive.
The Poinciana (Delonix regia) typically has a relatively short lifespan of 30 to 50 years. These fast‑growing, tropical trees are known for their rapid growth — often reaching 30–40 feet in height —but are prone to wood rot, termites, and branch failure as they age.
When we remove trees, we try to plant replacement trees. We also plant trees in new areas across the Shire. The trees we plant today are more fit for purpose than those planted in the past, and where possible we try to choose flowering trees that help brighten up the town. Most of our tree stock is grown at our nursery to help save on costs.
Sadly, not everyone understands the effort and care our staff put into growing these trees, and they’re often vandalised or stolen.
We proudly celebrate National Tree Planting Day and, with the help of our biosecurity team and enthusiastic local volunteers, have planted thousands of native trees over the years.
Over 50 trees have been planted throughout the district’s parks, foreshores, and main street in the last six months alone.
The varieties planted include:
Keep an eye out — see if you can spot the varieties!
Port Hinchinbrook is a step closer to returning to a thriving destination with early works commencing in preparation of dredging and restoration.
The Government has acquired multiple key sites within the Port Hinchinbrook PPDA, through Economic Development Queensland (EDQ) in a major step forward to deliver a long-awaited solution.
Following community consultation, the State’s first-ever Provisional Land Use Plan also comes into effect by outlining the planning framework to help guide the site’s restoration and future development.
Both the plan and land acquisition allow for the start of early works, with initial repair works to stop acid sulphate soils from leaching into the surrounding mangroves, as soon as weather and ground conditions allow.
Having further explored options and costings for the dredging work, EDQ is procuring a lead contractor to manage the technical experts and work crews needed on site.
The conformed deed which sits over the property will be extinguished.
The milestone comes after the Port Hinchinbrook PPDA was declared in October last year – a landmark move which saw the establishment of Queensland’s first ever PPDA – after the area was devastated by Cyclone Yasi in 2011.
Premier David Crisafulli said the milestone was testament to the Government’s unwavering commitment to delivering a solution to a long-running issue.
“The proud people of Far North Queensland deserve a fast-tracked solution and that’s what are delivering,” Premier Crisafulli said.
“With land acquisition and the Provisional Land Use Plan in place as of today, we are wasting no time starting early works on this important project.
“We are delivering on our promise to restore Port Hinchinbrook as a thriving tourism, commercial and residential precinct.
“This is all about delivering a fresh start and plan for Queensland’s future to restore jobs, tourism and growth to this great part of our State.”
Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jarrod Bleijie said the Queensland Government was focused on swiftly securing a long-term solution to a complex challenge.
“While moving quickly, EDQ is also doing things the right way – solving a wide range of long-running complex issues that have been left unchecked for way too long,” Deputy Premier Bleijie said.
"We've got cracking quickly to fix a long running problem that is a vital asset for the Far North.
“A huge thank you to the local community, industry, the Cassowary Coast Regional Council and other local stakeholders for their support in helping us reach this milestone.
“Together we will secure a solution for the people of Port Hinchinbrook and broader region.”
Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa said the Crisafulli Government was delivering a fresh start to the people of this proud community.
“We made a promise to the people of Hinchinbrook we’d restore Port Hinchinbrook as a thriving tourism, commercial and residential precinct and we’ve taken a major step forward in delivering on that promise,” Chiesa said.
"My role is to be a strong local voice and use my seat at the table to ensure a world class result for the boaties who need access to the Hinchinbrook Channel and those who call this glorious area home.
“While Port Hinchinbrook suffered, local tourism stalled and the community was left without answers, but that’s all changing.”
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Desexing dogs and cats is one of the most common procedures performed in veterinary clinics across Tropical Vets and is one of the most important decisions pet owners make for their animal’s long-term health and welfare. While it is often described as a “routine” surgery, desexing is far from simple. It is a carefully planned medical procedure that requires individual assessment, surgical expertise and a strong focus on animal welfare before, during, and after surgery.
Why Desexing Is No Longer One-Size-Fits-All
Historically, most dogs and cats were desexed at around six months of age. However, developing research over the past decade has shown that this approach is not always in the best interests of every animal. Breed, size, sex, intended use, behaviour and medical risk factors all influence the optimal timing of desexing, particularly in dogs.
Large, working breeds and active dogs as well as pets living on rural or semi-rural properties may have different risk profiles to smaller urban pets. Our Veterinarians are well equipped to answer any questions that you may have, applying the latest scientific knowledge to advise what is best for your pet.
Medical and Behavioural Benefits
From a medical perspective, desexing offers significant benefits. In female dogs, desexing eliminates the risk of pyometra, a life-threatening uterine infection that is commonly seen in middle-aged and older dogs as well as reducing the risk of mammary cancer when performed at an appropriate age. In males, desexing prevents testicular cancer and can reduce the incidence of prostate disease.
Behaviourally, desexing can reduce hormonally driven behaviours such as roaming, urine marking, mounting and some forms of aggression, particularly in male animals. In North Queensland, where roaming increases the risk of heat stress, snake bites, paralysis ticks, road trauma and disease transmission, reducing these behaviours has significant welfare benefits.
In cats, the benefits are clearer and more consistent. Desexing reduces spraying, fighting, roaming and unwanted litters. It also significantly lowers the risk of mammary cancer in female cats and improves overall safety and quality of life for pets.
What’s Involved in a Desexing Procedure
Although desexing is common, it is still major surgery. Every patient undergoes a full clinical examination before anaesthesia and many owners choose to perform pre-anaesthetic blood testing to help identify any underlying health risks. Anaesthetic protocols are selected based on the animal’s age, breed, size, health status and the realities of our tropical climate, where careful temperature and hydration management are essential.
Female desexing involves abdominal surgery and careful ligation of blood vessels, while male desexing requires precise surgical technique to minimise bleeding and post-operative discomfort. Throughout the procedure, patients are continuously monitored by trained Veterinary Nurses using specialised equipment to track heart rate, breathing, blood pressure, oxygen levels and body temperature.
Pain management does not stop when surgery ends. Animals receive post-operative pain relief, close monitoring during recovery and clear aftercare instructions to support healing and comfort at home.
Why Desexing Has a Cost
The cost of desexing reflects far more than the surgery itself. It includes a pre-surgical health check, a carefully designed drug and anaesthetic plan tailored for each individual patient, continuous monitoring of vital parameters and comprehensive pain management before, during, and after the operation. Desexings are performed under a full general anaesthesia and operated on with sterile surgical instruments in a fully equipped theatre.
When discussing costing, there are many factors which are often overlooked. These include the years dedicated to Veterinary and Veterinary Nurse training, the ongoing maintenance of surgical equipment, stockpiling of emergency medications and the clinical standards that every registered practice is required to uphold. Veterinary clinics also invest significant time in follow-up care, including complimentary post-operative checks and client support, to ensure every patient recovers safely. These measures are central to maintaining high standards of animal welfare.
A Commitment to Animal Welfare
Desexing is not about convenience or profit. It is about reducing unwanted litters, preventing disease, improving behaviour and supporting the long-term welfare of pets and the wider North Queensland community. When performed thoughtfully and responsibly, desexing remains a cornerstone of good pet care and responsible pet ownership.
Contributed with thanks to Tropical Vets.
Tec-NQ will proudly host its 2026 Registered Training Organisation (RTO) Awards on Friday 13, March 2026, recognising the outstanding achievements of apprentices, students and industry partners across North Queensland.
The annual awards ceremony celebrates apprentices who have demonstrated exceptional commitment, skill development and dedication to their trade, while also acknowledging the employers and industry partners who support vocational education and workforce development.
The event will bring together apprentices, families, employers, educators, sponsors and community leaders to celebrate success stories emerging from Tec-NQ’s hands-on, work-based training model.
Tec-NQ CEO Ross Jorgensen said the RTO Awards shine a spotlight on the value of vocational education and training in creating real career pathways.
“Our RTO Awards recognise apprentices who are excelling in their trades and employers who are investing in the future of our workforce,” Ross Jorgensen said.
These awards highlight the importance of practical learning and strong industry partnerships in building job-ready and skilled workers.
Award categories will include, but not limited to:
Townsville – Automotive, Electrical, Carpentry Apprentice of the Year
Mackay and Cairns – Electrical Apprentice of the Year
Along with and a range of awards recognising excellence, leadership and dedication across multiple trade areas.
Tec-NQ continues to provide an alternative education pathway for young people, combining trade training with real workplace experience to support successful transitions into apprenticeships and employment.
What: Tec-NQ RTO Awards 2026
When: Friday, 13 March, 6:00pm – 11:00pm
Where: The Ville Pavillion – Sir Leslie Theiss Drive, Townsville
Enjoy connection, confidence and community at this year’s International Women’s Day Afternoon Gathering, an event designed to bring local women together and celebrate them. Whether you run a business, lead a team, work within the community or are simply looking to connect with like-minded women, this special afternoon offers the perfect opportunity to share experiences and build meaningful relationships.
Guests will enjoy a welcoming atmosphere, paired with 2 hours of delicious, unlimited canapés and great company, making it an ideal outing to celebrate achievements, exchange ideas, and support one another. International Women’s Day is about recognising progress while empowering future success, and this event aims to do exactly that by bringing women together to uplift and inspire.
Bookings are essential, so gather your colleagues, friends or fellow business owners and secure your place for an afternoon dedicated to strong women and strong communities.
What: International Women’s Day Afternoon Gathering
What: Saturday, 7 March 2026, 3:00pm – 5:00pm
Where: Isla Cabana Sizz’n Grill. 221 Victoria St, Cardwell
Cost: $25 pp.
Tasman Turtle’s Picnic Day is back for 2026, bringing families together for a full day of fun, learning, and connection with nature.
Enjoy eco-friendly activities, hands-on nature crafts, interactive games, and educational experiences designed to teach kids and adults alike how to protect our oceans, care for local wildlife, and live more sustainably.
It’s a perfect day out for families, friends, and anyone passionate about the environment and a great way to support local conservation efforts while having a turtley awesome time!
Tasman Turtle themselves will be there to join in the dancing, activities and give out the best high-fives to all the amazing kids.
What: Tasman Turtle’s Picnic Day 2026
When: Saturday, 30 May, 9:00am – 2:00pm
Where: TYTO Wetlands, 73–75 McIlwraith Street, Ingham
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