Queensland children and teenagers who are uncomfortable with needle vaccinations can now access a free nasal spray flu vaccine under an expansion of the State Government’s FluMist program.

The Government has widened eligibility for the free nasal spray vaccine to children and teenagers aged six to 17, building on the existing program already available to children aged two to five years.

The expanded rollout forms part of the Government’s $31 million free flu vaccination program, which is available through participating GPs, pharmacies and vaccination clinics across Queensland.

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The expansion comes to help fight the winter chills with families being urged to get vaccinated while FluMist stock remains available.

More than one million Queenslanders have already received a flu vaccination this year, including a significant rise in vaccinations among younger children.

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The Government said the expansion followed feedback from health professionals and families, including parents of children with disability or sensory sensitivities, who said the needle-free option would make vaccination less stressful and more accessible.

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Families have been encouraged to book vaccinations sooner rather than later, with FluMist supplies expected to run out nationally after early August due to the vaccine’s shorter shelf life.

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More information about the free flu vaccination program and participating providers is available through the Queensland Health Flu Vaccination website via www.health.qld.gov.au.

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CANEGROWERS says Queensland’s growing biofuels industry could create major new opportunities for Hinchinbrook and Cassowary Coast cane growers. Photo source: CANEGROWERS

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Queensland’s push to kick-start a domestic biofuels industry could unlock significant new opportunities for both Hinchinbrook and Cassowary Coast sugarcane sectors, according to CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan.

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Mr Galligan welcomed the State Government’s recent $25 million investment into biodiesel production at Ampol’s Lytton Refinery in Brisbane, describing it as an important first step towards building a stronger and more resilient economy while paving the way for future growth across regional industries.

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“While this project may not directly involve sugarcane, it’s an important step in establishing the kind of industry that, with the right investment and policy settings, can unlock significant opportunities for cane growers,” Mr Galligan said.

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Queensland’s sugar industry has long advocated for the expansion of a domestic biofuels sector, with the potential to significantly increase ethanol production, generate more green electricity through sugar mills and eventually produce advanced biofuels such as sustainable aviation fuel.

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With Hinchinbrook and Cassowary Coast recognised as one of the states largest sugar-producing regions, Mr Galligan said local growers could play a major role in helping power Queensland’s renewable fuel future.

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“This is about more than cleaner energy – it’s about building a stronger, more resilient economy, creating new markets for growers, adding value to every tonne of cane, and backing regional jobs and investment,” he said.

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“It’s also about fuel security. Recent global disruptions have shown how exposed Australia is to supply shocks, and building a domestic biofuels industry helps reduce that reliance.”

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Mr Galligan said ensuring sugarcane remained central to future biofuel production would be critical to delivering the industry at scale and strengthening long-term opportunities for regional Queensland communities.

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The announcement comes amid growing national discussions around fuel security, regional manufacturing and reducing Australia’s reliance on imported fuel supplies.

In recent weeks, the Queensland Government announced plans to strengthen the State’s fuel security through expanded local drilling, refining and storage capacity, including unlocking additional infrastructure opportunities at ports across Queensland.

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Official expressions of interest have also opened under the new Accelerating Fuel Infrastructure Program, inviting industry proposals for fuel refining and storage projects on government-owned land and ports in Townsville, Mackay, Gladstone, Abbot Point, Bundaberg and Brisbane.

Minister for Natural Resources and Mines and Minister for Manufacturing Dale Last said the focus was now on future-proofing the industry and creating long-term opportunities.

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"We know what the challenges are and I’m looking at the opportunities going forward, because that's where we can make the greatest change and get the most benefit," Mr Last said.

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After spending much of his 50-year political career fighting to secure a home-grown supply of cleaner, greener biofuels, Federal MP Bob Katter has backed a historic alliance of agricultural groups advocating for a national ethanol mandate aimed at strengthening Australia’s fuel self-sufficiency and supporting regional industries.

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“In just 10 years, sustainably Australian-grown and manufactured renewable ethanol could be supplying 10 per cent of Australia’s total domestic petrol requirements, alongside local biodiesel for another five per cent self-sufficiency if there was a biofuels mandate,” Mr Katter said.

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CANEGROWERS said it would continue working with government and industry partners to ensure momentum in the biofuels sector translates into practical outcomes for growers and regional communities across Queensland.

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Wayde Chiesa MP and Premier David Crissafuli celebrating Queensland Day with students. Photo credit: David Crissafulli MP office

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Last week, the Crisafulli Government announced that regional households will see electricity prices fall by up to 6.9 per cent, while small businesses will see reductions of up to 8.1 per cent. These are some of the largest drops in regional Queensland in a decade.  

This is welcome news for households and small businesses across regional Queensland, with power prices set to fall from 1 July.  Importantly, Treasurer and Minister for Energy David Janetzki, has directed Ergon Energy to pass these savings on in full to regional Queenslanders. That matters because families and small businesses deserve to see real relief on their bills, not just headlines.

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This follows years of rising costs, with power bills having increased by 28.7 per cent in a single year under the former Labor Government. By contrast, the Crisafulli Government’s Energy Roadmap takes a balanced approach: improving what we have, while building what we need for the future.

Of course, we know many people across the region are still doing it tough. Farmers, in particular, continue to face higher fuel, fertiliser and input costs. Lower electricity prices will not solve every pressure, but they are an important step in the right direction.

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Over recent weeks, I have had the great opportunity to visit a number of schools across the electorate, including St Peter’s School Halifax, Gilroy Santa Maria College, North Shore State High School and Ingham State High School. Spending time with students is always one of the most enjoyable parts of my role. Their confidence, curiosity and enthusiasm for the future should give us all great optimism.

I was also pleased to attend the Ingham Catholic Debutante Ball. It was wonderful to see so many young people celebrating an important milestone surrounded by proud parents, families and friends. Events like these reflect the strong community spirit and traditions that remain such an important part of life in our region.

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As Queensland Day was celebrated last weekend, it was a timely reminder of what makes our State so special. For me, it is our people. From farmers and small business owners to teachers, parents, students and volunteers, I continue to be reminded why Hinchinbrook is such a wonderful place to call home.

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Most importantly, after meeting so many young people across our community in recent weeks, I am more confident than ever that the future of Hinchinbrook is in very good hands.

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Ingham to Townsville road signpost: Photo supplied

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Major safety and resilience upgrades are continuing along the Bruce Highway, with several projects set to benefit motorists travelling through the Hinchinbrook region.

Under the $9 billion Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program, jointly funded by the Federal and Queensland governments, a range of projects are planned between Townsville, Ingham and Innisfail over the coming years.

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Among the works announced are new overtaking lanes between Townsville and Ingham, aimed at improving traffic flow and providing safer passing opportunities on one of North Queensland's busiest transport corridors.

Motorists can also expect to see extensive wide centre line treatments and pavement strengthening works rolled out across sections of the highway as part of a broader safety upgrade program.

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Several bridge replacement projects are also planned between Ingham and Innisfail, including upgrades at Palm Creek, St Margaret Creek, Emmett Creek, Mackenzie Creek and Alligator Creek. These works will replace narrow bridges and improve safety for motorists, freight operators and other road users.

Further north, flood resilience works on the Bruce Highway south of Tully have now been completed. The upgrades between Dallachy Road and Dean Road are expected to improve the highway's performance during flood events, with modelling indicatinga significant reduction in annual flood disruption.

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The latest announcements form part of a wider Bruce Highway improvement program, with dozens of projects either completed, underway or progressing to design and construction phases across Queensland.

Transport and Main Roads says the upgrades are focused on improving road safety, strengthening flood resilience and supporting the long-term reliability of the state's key north-south transport route.

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Additional projects are expected to be delivered progressively through to 2030 as the program continues.

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For tender details, visit: https://www.tmr.qld.gov.au/business-industry/business-with-us/tenders-and-contracts/tenders

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Juvenile barramundi being released by members of the Ingham Rod & Reel Club at Gairloch Bridge. Photo credits: Victoria Velton

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Thousands of juvenile barramundi have been released into the Herbert River as part of the Ingham Rod & Reel Club's ongoing fish restocking program, helping to support local fish stocks and the future of recreational fishing in the region.

Club President Paul Dametto said the club releases around 5,000 juvenile barramundi into local waterways each year as part of its commitment to maintaining healthy fish populations.

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"As part of our restocking program we let approximately 5,000 juvenile barramundi back into the river every year, just hoping they'll help keep the stocks up," he said.

Approximately 2,000 barra were released during the latest stocking event, with around 4,000 released across two days. The fish are around four months old and measure approximately 120mm in length.

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Mr Dametto explained that previous releases involved larger fish measuring between 250mm and 300mm, however the smaller fish are now being used to see if there are any survival differences in release sizes.  

The young barramundi are released in freshwater sections of the river, giving them time to grow before naturally traveling downstream towards the ocean as they mature.

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"Part of our permit requires us to release them in the river rather than straight into the channel," Mr Dametto said.

"It gives them a chance to grow out with fewer predators before eventually moving downstream and out to saltwater when they're older."

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While larger barramundi remain a natural predator, invasive tilapia continue to present challenges in local waterways.

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"Tilapia are a noxious fish and they're becoming more common in our waterways," Mr Dametto said.

The success of the restocking program is already being seen throughout the district, with previous year’s released tagged fish regularly reported by anglers as far upstream as Abergowrie.

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Importantly, research conducted in partnership with James Cook University has also shown stocked barramundi are successfully breeding with wild fish populations, helping strengthen future stocks naturally.

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The release program operates under permit conditions and is undertaken in consultation with relevant authorities, ensuring the fish are released responsibly and in suitable habitat.

For local anglers, the program represents a long-term investment in the health of the Herbert River and the future of one of North Queensland's most iconic sportfish.

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The town of Ingham has become iconic for a number of events: the Italian-Australia Festival, the Maraka Festival, and St Anthony’s Feast Day- which will be celebrated on Sunday 14^th June in the small hamlet of Bemerside, on the north-eastern side of Ingham.

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This year marks the Feast Day’s 99^th year of being celebrated, occurring annually since 13^th of June 1927 on the grounds where the church of St Anthony stands.  

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This year’s festival program begins at 11am on Sunday 14^th June, with Mass in St Anthony’s church. Mass, and the choir’s hymns, will be performed in both English and Italian.

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The service will be followed by an afternoon fete, with beautiful lunch offerings at a large variety of food stalls, and competitions with prizes up for grabs. There is a licenced bar for refreshment, and a wine stall, along with a popular stall offering various mementoes of St Anthony and other religious icons.

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St Anthony is known as the patron saint of children, and to honour St Anthony’s passion, children attending the festival can enjoy a free jumping castle.

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Live entertainment throughout the afternoon from one of Ingham’s celebrated entertainers will also bring colour to the day’s festivities.

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At 2pm the statue of St Anthony will be placed on a Vara and at 2.30pm the parish priest will lead the procession of people on the main road (closed to traffic for this activity) from St Anthony’s church for 600 metres. The rosary will be recited in both English and Italian and hymns will also be sung throughout this procession.  

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On completion of the procession people will gather around the front of the church to witness the blessing of the children. St Anthony’s bread will be distributed for all attendees to enjoy in a symbol of unity, peace and community.  

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This will conclude the formal part of the day, however people may continue to stay on for delicious food, beverages, 500 club draws, monster raffle prize draws and live entertainment. All stalls will have cash and card facilities available.

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The parish of St Anthony welcomes people of all faiths to attend this festival to mark community, goodwill and continuing commitment to peace and unity.

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Council provides the following update regarding scheduled hydrant maintenance works across Blackrock and Ingham. These works are essential to maintain and improve the reliability of the water network and may require temporary water outages to safely complete repairs.

BLACKROCK WORKS: POSTPONED

Hydrant maintenance works scheduled for Blackrock have been postponed to a later date. Council will provide further updates once new dates are confirmed.

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INGHAM WORKS: PROCEEDING AS PLANNED

From Tuesday 9^th June 2026, hydrant maintenance works will proceed in Ingham. Temporary water interruptions of up to one hour may affect the following areas:

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• Menzies Street (approximately 14 properties);

• Victoria Mill Road (approximately 6 properties);

• Palm Terrace (approximately 16 properties);

• Halifax Road (approximately 6 properties);

• McIlwraith Street (approximately 16 properties);

• Pindar Street (approximately 17 properties); and

• Sir Arthur Fadden Parade (approximately 17 properties).

Council crews will make every effort to minimise disruption, and affected residents may also be notified directly where possible.  

Following restoration of supply, some households may experience discoloured water or temporary fluctuations in pressure. If this occurs, please run taps for up to five minutes or until the water runs clear. Where possible, consider repurposing flushed water for gardening or lawn irrigation.  

Call Council’s customer service centre on (07) 4776 4600 or email council@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au for more information.

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Hinchinbrook Local Disaster Management Group advises residents that the Australian Government will be introducing AusAlert, a new national warning system designed to send emergency alerts directly to compatible mobile devices.

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AusAlert uses modern cell broadcast technology to deliver near-instant messages during emergencies, including natural disasters such as bushfires, floods and cyclones, as well as other critical incidents.  

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Prior to its official launch in October 2026, the system will undergo testing to ensure it operates effectively and that the community is familiar with how alerts will appear and sound.

Community testing will occur across selected locations in June 2026, followed by a national test on Monday 27 July 2026.

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In Queensland, the national test will occur at approximately 2:00pm, and compatible mobile devices may:

• Emit a loud, siren-like sound

• Vibrate for approximately 10 seconds

• Display a test alert message

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Residents are advised that:

• The alert will clearly state that it is a test

• No action is required during the test

• In a real emergency, residents should follow the instructions provided in the alert

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If the alert sound may cause concern or disruption, residents may wish to switch their device to aeroplane mode prior to the test and leave it off for up to one hour.

AusAlert is one of the ways governments are working together to help keep communities informed and safe during emergencies. For more information and to prepare for the testing period, please visit: www.ausalert.gov.au

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Alex and Glynis from HCSC were recently at Ingham Woolworths carpark handing out a selection of free children's clothes recycled from ex-service uniforms. Photo sourced: HCSC’s Facebook page

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Across Australia, many individuals and families are continuing to feel the effects of rising living costs. Increasing grocery prices, housing pressures, fuel costs, electricity bills and unexpected expenses can place significant stress on households and wellbeing.

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In regional communities, these pressures can often feel even greater. Financial stress not only impacts a person’s ability to meet day-to-day needs, but can also affect emotional wellbeing, relationships, mental health and a person’s sense of stability.

At times, asking for help can feel difficult. Many people worry they should simply “push through” or manage on their own. However, reaching out for support early can often help prevent situations from becoming more overwhelming and provide access to practical assistance, information and connection to additional services.

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The team at Hinchinbrook Community Support understands that financial hardship can affect anyone at different stages of life and that everyone’s circumstances are unique.

One of the supports available through HCSC is the Emergency Relief Program, which assists people experiencing financial hardship to maintain their basic living needs. Alongside practical assistance, the service also recognises that individuals and families may benefit from emotional support, information and referral pathways during difficult times.

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Emergency Relief appointments are available Monday to Friday from 1:00pm to 3:00pm by same-day appointment.

Community connection and early support can make a significant difference during challenging times. Whether someone requires practical assistance, support navigating available services, or simply a conversation about what options may be available, help is available locally.

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If you or someone you know may benefit from support, the team at HCSC encourages community members to reach out and learn more about the services available.

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The Federal Government is seeking feedback on proposed Right to Repair reforms that aim to repair access for agricultural machinery and support independent repairers. Photo source: Shutterstock

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The Federal Government is seeking feedback on proposed Right to Repair reforms aimed at expanding repair options for farmers, drivers and small businesses while helping reduce machinery downtime and maintenance costs.

Released last Thursday, the discussion paper outlines plans to extend Australia’s existing Right to Repair framework to agricultural machinery and make improvements to the Motor Vehicle Information Sharing Scheme, which has operated since 2022.

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The scheme requires vehicle manufacturers to provide independent repairers with access to service and repair information at a fair market price, supporting competition and consumer choice in the repair industry.

According to the Federal Government, a review of the scheme found it had been broadly successful, contributing to a $2.4 billion increase in annual turnover across the independent repair sector.

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Under the proposed changes, farmers and regional businesses could gain faster access to repair information for agricultural machinery, helping reduce costly delays during critical periods such as planting and harvest seasons.

The Productivity Commission estimates expanding Right to Repair laws to agriculture could increase annual GDP by $97 million through increased grain outputs alone by reducing downtime during harvest.

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Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Julie Collins said the reforms aimed to give farmers greater flexibility and support regional repair businesses.

“Our Government’s Right to Repair reforms will give farmers genuine choice about who repairs and services their machinery, while ensuring independent repairers have access to the information they need to compete fairly,” Ms Collins said.

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“By extending Right to Repair laws to include agricultural machinery, these changes will help reduce downtime, lower repair costs and keep farm operations moving when it matters most. This is a win for farmers, a win for regional businesses and a win for competition.”

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Minister for Small Business Anne Aly said the reforms would support small businesses and operators relying on machinery to stay productive.

“We know small businesses can’t afford to be out of action when machinery breaks, so we’re making it easier for small businesses, farmers and drivers to keep moving with access to fast and affordable repairs,” Ms Aly said.

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Assistant Minister for Productivity, Competition, Charities and Treasury Andrew Leigh said the reforms were designed to strengthen competition and improve access to repair services.

“Whether it’s repairing a car or a tractor, Australian drivers and farmers deserve access to choice and competitive prices,” Dr Leigh said.

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Treasury is now seeking feedback from stakeholders and industry representatives on the proposed expansion to agricultural machinery and other improvements to the existing scheme. The consultation period is open until Friday, 3 July, 2026, with further information available via consult.treasury.gov.au.

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Concerning news out of Canberra last week was the Federal Government’s proposal to reduce federal funding for the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements to 50% for natural disaster events.

The apportionment of costs between the Federal and State Governments has historically been around a 65/35% split for larger infrastructure reconstruction funding arrangements.  

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For each disaster event, Local Government is required to meet an upfront cost of $130,000, which for a small council like ours — often in the firing line of Mother Nature — places an immediate and substantial financial burden on limited resources.  

Councils also carry additional unfunded or partially funded recovery costs, may be required to contribute 20% or more towards betterment works, and are forced to absorb ongoing cash‑flow and insurance pressures.  

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We are yet to hear what impact the proposed changes will have, but they will undoubtedly result in a reduction in funds flowing from the Federal Government, and we will need to see whether the State will pick up that reduction or whether it will flow through to the ratepayer. For a small local authority like ours, with a small rate base and small population, this is simply an additional cost imposition that we cannot afford, and we will need to argue strenuously against it.

These support mechanisms have traditionally been in place to recognise that Local Government in Australia collects just 3% of the nation’s total taxation revenue. The Commonwealth Government is the dominant collector, raising roughly 81% of all national tax revenue, while State Governments recover the remaining 16%.

The 3% recovered by Local Government is derived entirely from property taxes, known as rates.

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While councils raise only a tiny fraction of the total tax pool, they are responsible for a significant burden of local expenditure, managing nearly one‑third of all public infrastructure assets. These are the very assets required to be repaired or reinstated under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.

We have already seen a reduction in funding available from the Federal Government for betterment works. Betterment is grant funding made available to councils, on successful application, to reinstate assets to a stronger and more resilient standard rather than replacing them on a like‑for‑like basis.  

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This funding was previously provided by the Federal Government in full; however, councils are now required to contribute 20% of total costs. To make matters worse, our residents are finding it increasingly difficult, if not impossible, to maintain adequate insurance to protect their property due to ever‑rising insurance premiums.

Councils and communities are already grappling with the impacts of a high cost of living driven by inflation, high fuel prices and, for the farming sector, high fertiliser costs.

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In all fairness, it must be acknowledged that councils do receive funding from the Federal Government each year through Financial Assistance Grants. However, this funding is failing to keep pace with CPI increases and has, in real terms, been significantly reduced over the past 10 years.  

It has now fallen to less than 0.5% of total national tax revenue, down from a high of 1%.

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As indicated several weeks ago, we did not receive any assistance from the Budget, nor any meaningful policy direction such as an ethanol mandate or incentive that could help deliver new manufacturing opportunities and economic development for our region.

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Unfortunately, councils are being asked to do more with less. This is simply unsustainable.

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Hi Readers, I’d like to highlight some of the support available through Council to help residents manage their rates bill in my column today.

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With the ongoing cost-of-living pressures on yourself, families and businesses that we are facing in 2026, it’s important to know that help is available.

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Council’s Hardship Policy may provide assistance to eligible residents and business owners who are experiencing genuine financial difficulty.

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Council is committed to:

• Treating applicants with dignity, respect, sensitivity and confidentiality.  

• Helping in a fair, consistent and transparent manner.  

• Working with residents to find realistic and sustainable payment arrangements.  

• Supporting those who have a genuine inability to meet their rate payment obligations.  

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Residents who believe they may qualify for hardship assistance can apply through Council and will need to provide supporting documentation as part of the assessment process.

I would also like to draw your attention to another option that many residents may find helpful. Just as you can make regular payments towards other household bills, Council offers a direct debit payment facility that allows rates to be paid weekly, fortnightly or monthly. This can make budgeting much easier and removes the pressure of finding the full amount when rates fall due in March and September.

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If paying your rates is becoming a challenge, I encourage you to contact Council and discuss the options available. Whether it is a payment arrangement or hardship assistance, there may be a solution that suits you, your family or your business budget.

Remember, asking for help early can make a significant difference, and Council staff are there to assist you. Please give them a call on (07) 4776 4600 or visit them at 25 Lannercost Street, Ingham.

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Hinchinbrook is a region where cane fields stretch from a far as the eye can see. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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Submissions for the Federal Government's review of the Sugar Code of Conduct close at 5:00pm on Tuesday 16th June, with cane growers, contractors, harvesting operators, mill workers and industry organisations encouraged to share their views before the deadline.

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The review is examining whether the Sugar Code should remain unchanged, be amended, or allowed to lapse when it sunsets in 2027. Feedback gathered through the review will help inform the future direction of the code and its role within Australia's sugar industry.

Senator Susan McDonald said the review was an important opportunity for people working throughout the industry to contribute their experiences and perspectives; to protect growers from unequal bargaining power and ensure fair commercial negotiations across the sugar industry.

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“This Code was put in place for a reason and it has played a critical role in delivering certainty, transparency and fairness for cane growers,” Senator McDonald said.

“Now is the time for every grower, every harvesting group, every local cane organisation and every supporting industry body to make their voice heard.

“If regional communities stay silent, decisions will be made without the full picture of what is happening on the ground.”

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Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox MP, said the review extends beyond growers and mills, with flow-on effects for many businesses and communities connected to the sugar sector.

“This is not just about growers and mills, it affects transport operators, local suppliers, engineering businesses, contractors, fuel distributors, regional retailers and entire communities that depend on a strong sugar sector.”

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“I strongly encourage every cane farmer and every supporting industry body to have their say and ensure regional Australia is heard loud and clear.”

Consultation was especially important as the industry diversified into ethanol, biofuels and value-added manufacturing opportunities.

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Industry groups including CANEGROWERS, AgForce and Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables representatives have all stressed the importance of retaining strong protections for growers and ensuring broad industry consultation.

“But that can only happen if people take the time to contribute to the review process.” Mr Willcox said.

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Federal Member for Flynn, Colin Boyce MP, said it was vital that growers and industry participants engaged in the review process.

“The sugar industry is a key economic driver across our region, supporting local jobs and businesses right throughout the supply chain,”  

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“Growers are also facing increasing pressures from rising energy costs and ongoing challenges around water access and reliability, which directly impact productivity and long-term viability. Mr Boyce said.

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“That’s why it’s so important this review gets the settings right - so growers are supported not just in negotiations, but in managing the real-world pressures affecting their operations every day.”

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It’s critical that all growers take this opportunity to share their experiences and make sure their voices are heard. Submissions close 16 June 2026, the survey can be accessed here: https://haveyoursay.agriculture.gov.au/sugar-code-review  

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Opening ceremony of the new facilities at Dungeness. Photo source: Facebook  

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Community members, Traditional Owners, partner organisations and local supporters gathered at Lucinda on Saturday 6th June to celebrate the official opening of the new Dungeness Sea Rangers Base.

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Hosted by Girringun Aboriginal Corporation, the community open day marked an important milestone for the organisation's Sea Rangers program, which plays a significant role in marine conservation, research, cultural stewardship and environmental protection across the Girringun Nation.

Located at Dungeness, the new base has been established with support from the Indigenous Land and Sea Corporation and the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, providing expanded facilities to support ranger operations and future growth.

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Girringun Aboriginal Corporation CEO Whitney Rassip said the new facility represented much more than a building.

"This really means a lot to us. The Dungeness Sea Ranger Base isn’t just a building, it’s a place for our people, our culture, and looking after land and sea country the way our old people always have.

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"We are creating a space to expand our sea country operations, open opportunities for our Traditional Owner groups and allow better access to our southern and inland management footprints.

"This day is about pride, honouring our Elders, and the future we’re building together."

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The event also highlighted the work undertaken through TUMRA (Traditional Use of Marine Resources Agreements), which supports the sustainable management of protected marine species and contributes to important research and monitoring programs throughout the Hinchinbrook region.

Indigenous Land and Sea Corporation CEO Joe Morrison said the organisation was proud to support the project.

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"The new Dungeness Sea Rangers Base will support the Girringun rangers to fulfill their innate responsibility to care, protect and manage Country."

Among those attending the opening were volunteers from the Lucinda Coast Guard, who congratulated the Sea Rangers on the milestone and welcomed opportunities for future collaboration on the water.

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The Coast Guard acknowledged the Rangers' important role in providing stewardship of the traditional lands and waters around Hinchinbrook and the Palm Islands, while working alongside organisations including Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service and the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority to protect local marine environments.

Volunteers also highlighted the pathways the Rangers create for young Indigenous people to gain recognised skills, qualifications and employment opportunities while remaining connected to Country.

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Lucinda Coast Guard members said they looked forward to working alongside the Sea Rangers in the future through joint training exercises, on-water operations and search and rescue activities, strengthening partnerships between local organisations dedicated to protecting the region's waterways and supporting the community.

This spirit of cooperation was a fitting reflection of the day itself, which celebrated not only a new facility, but also the partnerships, cultural knowledge and shared commitment that will help guide the future of land and sea management across the Girringun Nation.

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Members of the Lucinda Coast Guard receiving the cheque from H.E.L.P at Lucinda Hotel, standing in front of “JJ” and the new trailer. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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Community fundraising is set to benefit local marine safety for years to come, with Halifax Emergency Liaison Partnership (H.E.L.P.) donating $12,000 towards a new trailer for the Lucinda Coast Guard's RHIB vessel, "JJ".

As a not-for-profit organisation, the Lucinda Coast Guard relies heavily on grants, donations and community support to maintain its vessels and continue providing vital services on local waterways.

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After 15 years of service, the trailer used to transport the Coast Guard's secondary rescue vessel had reached the end of its operational life and required replacement.

The funding, raised by through H.E.L.P.'s popular Friday night raffles at the Lucinda Hotel, has helped make this possible, ensuring "JJ" remains ready for service when needed.

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The donation was formally presented during a gathering at the Lucinda Point Hotel, where Lucinda Coast Guard Commander Steve and Administration Officer Coral met with members of the H.E.L.P. team.

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Lucinda Coast Guard members expressed their gratitude to the volunteer group and acknowledged the significant contribution the donation will make toward keeping the vessel operational, responding to incidents and assisting boaties throughout the region.

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