With the Easter school holidays underway, Far North Queensland Police Services are ramping up their efforts on both land and sea to ensure locals and visitors stay safe throughout the busy holiday period.

From now until the 21st of April, drivers and boaters alike can expect to see a higher police presence as part of high-visibility operations across the region.

Cairns Water Police Officer in Charge, Sergeant Andrew Ibell, reminded locals to be prepared before hitting the water.

“It’s important to keep an eye on the weather conditions, and make sure you pack safety equipment including lifejackets and an EPRIB and always tell someone where you are going and when you plan to return,” Sergeant Ibell said.

“Alerting family or friends or reporting your trip to the local Volunteer Marine Rescue group or Coast Guard could help save your life in the event of an emergency.”

His warning follows a recent rescue off the coast of Hope Vale, where three men were left stranded overnight on Boulder Reef after the propeller on their tinny fell into the water. The men were eventually located on a sand cay at around 2am by the Rescue 510 helicopter and taken to Cooktown for treatment.

“Fortunately, no one was seriously injured in this incident, but it highlights the importance of having safety equipment when venturing out to the reef,” Sergeant Ibell said.

The Queensland Police Service continues to stress the vast majority of serious crashes are avoidable and by being mindful of the Fatal Five, drivers can significantly reduce the risk of injury or death.

For more tips on staying safe this school holiday season, visit: www.police.qld.gov.au/initiatives/fatal-five-staying-safe-roads.

Mental health is a crucial component to a healthy, happy and productive life. For better or for worse we can never escape our own minds and as most readers probably know, the little voice in our heads is constantly speaking to us and sometimes the voice does not say nice things. For this reason it is important to talk about the inner workings of our minds as the little voice is not always right. So it is essential to normalise conversations surrounding mental well- being, share personal experiences when comfortable and acknowledge emotions openly.

Authentic and genuine conversation nurture connections, reduce isolations and build strong and supportive community relationships. Therefore it is helpful to share our thoughts and feelings with someone, a family member, friend or mental health professional as they can provide valuable insights, insights which may be difficult to see when we are limited to the vantage point that is the inside of our heads.

A stigma surrounds the topic of mental health, especially in regional areas such as Hinchinbrook, and dispelling this stigma begins with open, honest and frank conversations. Although there has been improvement in recent years, conversations surrounding mental health still carry with them a shadow of shame and misunderstanding.

Another key element is education. Inform yourself and help inform others of mental health conditions, treatments and resources. Arming ourselves with knowledge helps us dispel the myths and encourages informed and supportive conversations.

Lastly, engage in active listening. When people share their struggles, give them your attention and spare them your judgment. Often people simply need to be heard and validated. With the power of open dialogue regarding mental health we can foster empathy, reduce shame and create happier and healthier communities.

Tips on Breaking the Stigma: How to Talk About Mental Health Openly:

Start the Conversation Early
Don’t wait for a crisis. Begin talking about mental health in everyday conversations, just like you would any other health issue. Normalise the topic by casually bringing it up in social settings.

Be Honest and Vulnerable
Share your own experiences, struggles, or mental health journeys, if comfortable. When people see others being open, they feel encouraged to do the same and are less likely to feel ashamed or isolated.

Use Positive Language
Avoid using judgmental or stigmatising terms like "crazy" or "weak." Instead, use respectful language that focuses on mental health as an important part of overall well-being. For example, "I’ve been struggling with anxiety, and I’m seeking support."

Listen Without Judgment
When someone opens up about their mental health, be an active listener. Avoid offering solutions unless asked. Instead, offer empathy and let them know you’re there to support them, not to judge.

Encourage Professional Help
Talking openly about the importance of therapy, counselling, or other mental health services helps reduce the stigma around seeking professional support. Normalise the idea that seeing a therapist is as common and important as seeing a doctor for physical health concerns.

Educate Yourself and Others
Learn about mental health conditions and share what you’ve learned with others. Understanding the facts can help dispel myths and misconceptions, which are often the root cause of stigma.

Respect Privacy and Boundaries
Recognise that everyone has different comfort levels when it comes to sharing their mental health experiences. Respect boundaries and don’t pressure someone to talk if they’re not ready.

Use Your Platform for Advocacy
If you’re in a position to do so (whether through social media, your job, or community involvement), advocate for mental health awareness and resources. Sharing articles, personal stories, or positive messages about mental health can help normalise the conversation.

Encourage Open Dialogue in the Workplace or School
Advocate for mental health resources at work or school and create an open, non-judgmental environment where discussing mental health is welcomed. Encourage regular check-ins and support for mental well-being.

Show Empathy, Not Sympathy
Mental health struggles are not a pity party. Instead of offering sympathy, show empathy by acknowledging the person’s feelings and validating their experiences. Say things like, "I can’t imagine what you’re going through, but I’m here for you."

Growing your own herbs at home is an easy and rewarding way to elevate your meals while also enhancing your living space. Whether you have a garden, a windowsill, or even a small balcony, there’s always room to grow fresh herbs.

Top Tips:

Choose the Right Herbs for a tropical climate

The warm, humid environment means herbs that thrive in heat and moisture will do best. Some great options for our region include basil, mint, oregano, lemongrass, and coriander. Herbs like rosemary and thyme, which prefer drier conditions, may not thrive as well in the humid climate but can still grow with extra care in drier, well-drained soils.

Sunlight Considerations

While most herbs need plenty of sunlight, North QLD's intense sun can sometimes be too harsh, especially during summer months. You may need to provide some afternoon shade for your herbs to prevent them from getting scorched.

Watering

Due to the region's humidity and rain, overwatering can be a risk. Make sure your pots or garden beds have excellent drainage to avoid waterlogging. Be cautious about watering too frequently during the wet season, as the natural rainfall might provide sufficient moisture.

Protect from Pests

Tropical climates can attract various pests, so keep an eye on your herbs and use organic deterrents or barriers to protect them.

On Sunday 6 April 2025, I had the pleasure of attending the Ingham Region Catholic Parish celebrations of the Jubilee for the World of Volunteers, an occasion to honour and show our appreciation to all the valued volunteers working in our district.

It was an opportunity to express our community’s gratitude and appreciation to the many people who stepped forward and volunteered to assist during the recent flood event, and an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the incredible selflessness and dedication of so many in our community that help throughout the year in our district in so many different vocations.

We must rightly recognise and formally thank the army of dedicated people who devote significant time and effort to assisting our community such as the State Emergency Service volunteers, the Salvation Army, Red Cross and Rural Fire Services.

We also have our volunteer community organisations such as Lions International and Rotary. We have organisations such as Meals on Wheels that could not function without their valued delivery drivers, and sporting fixtures for the juniors of our community would not exist but for the generosity of many who give their time so selflessly every week to make sure that grounds are prepared and matches organised.

Council's very own TYTO operations would not be supported to the current level of activity but for the tremendous volunteer support it receives, and these examples are but just a few of the areas that immediately come to mind where volunteers are assisting and making a substantial difference in all walks of life in our community.

I would also like to acknowledge the many members of our community who simply hooked in and helped where they thought help was needed as our recent flood crisis unfolded.

Whether it was manning a boat and helping with evacuations, providing shelter, cooking, sharing or distributing food and supplies, helping to clean up or moving equipment or furnishings, or simply offering emotional support, efforts no matter how small or trivial that you think they were, was nothing short of heroic to others impacted by the event, to some who lost a lot or everything.

These ordinary everyday citizens from all walks of life, including many from our various sporting clubs as well, showed the true sense of community, the caring neighbourly principle and the power of community — how together, we can face challenges and overcome adversity.

You put aside your own needs, your own safety, and your own comfort to help those in need in a manner that clearly evidenced that spirit and compassion for others still exists in our community.

Volunteers like you remind us that in times of crisis, there is always hope, because of people like you who dedicate their time and energy to making our community a better place.

On behalf of Council and our Hinchinbrook community, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to all our volunteers and we want you to know that your efforts on our behalf are truly appreciated and make a distinct difference in our community.

Thank you everyone.

The Dalrymple Gap walking track follows the route of a road built in the 1860s, that in turn roughly followed the route taken by Aboriginal people across the Cardwell Range.

Teamsters used his trail to take supplies from Cardwell to Valley of Lagoons and other inland stations. Later this trail was used as a stock route; and cattle fattened on the Mount Fox tablelands were taken to the coast.

Near the top of Dalrymple Gap, on the coastal side, is an historic brick-lined bridge.

The bricks were brought from Scotland and the bridge has an interesting stone-pitched face.

The Dalrymple Gap walking track allows visitors to experience some of the beauty and diversity of Girringun National Park.

The RV Park in Forrest Beach is open again following its forced closure during the recent widespread flooding event. On Tuesday 1 April the popular camping spot was reopened for travellers.

Under the new lease passed by council the RV park will be open until the midnight Friday 31 October.

The Forrest Beach Progress Association are caretakers of the park, on behalf of council, and they are looking forward to another busy season.

The caravan park primarily caters to travellers escaping the colder southern climates, with peak occupancy occurring between late June and early August.

The Forrest Beach Progress Association provide essential information to new arrivals about local attractions, encouraging extended visits and return trips. Many travellers revisit the area on their journey home, further boosting local businesses.

For the 2025 season a change has been made to the parks requirements. Previously visitors had to be fully self-contained, including their own water supply. But this year they don’t. Travellers with roof-top tents are able to use the park, this adjustment expands accessibility while maintaining order within the limited space available.

As the season progresses, The Forrest Beach Progress Association expect a gradual increase in visitors, with peak occupancy in mid-year. The caravan park remains a vital asset to the local economy, providing a welcoming stop for travellers while supporting businesses and jobs within the shire.

The Herbert River Museum is open again, and operating under usual hours, 9am – 12pm Tuesday to Saturday.

Fortunately, the museum sustained minimal flood damage, and all of their rooms are open now including the major room, tools and office supply room, hospital room, barracks room, parlour or lounge room, and the military room.

The museum is currently preparing for its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on April 11. The meeting is set to commence at 10am and all community members, whether volunteers or not, are encouraged to attend and participate.

"We’ll start with the AGM, followed by our regular meeting and a morning tea. Everyone is welcome to join," said Herbert River Museum President Coral Guard.

One of the key issues on the agenda is funding, as the museum has struggled financially due to reduced visitor numbers and the closure of a nearby service station, which previously brought in foot traffic. Despite these challenges, volunteers remain committed to keeping the museum running and are actively seeking new members.

"We've had no income since last December, apart from a $5 donation when someone mistook us for being open while we were cleaning," Coral shared.

"With fewer volunteers, we need all the help we can get, even just a few hours a month makes a big difference.

“We are always looking for volunteers.”

The Herbert River Museum will also be open for Anzac Day commemorations. On April 25, visitors will be welcomed with tea, coffee, and homemade Anzac biscuits. The museum will also showcase a special window display and new flags ordered from overseas.

"Our windows will be decorated, and we’ll have flags flying, bunting, and plenty of poppies, many of which were crocheted by local aged care residents. We may also have rosemary available for visitors to take as a symbol of remembrance."

Museum representatives are also encouraging the public to visit and explore their exhibits, particularly the military room, which will be a focal point for Anzac Day.

The museum remains dedicated to preserving local history and honouring those who served. Community members interested in volunteering or attending the AGM are encouraged to come along and support this valuable local institution.

Preparations are well underway for this year’s highly anticipated Ingham Show. Organisers are working hard to finalise attractions, entertainment, and logistics to ensure another successful event.

This years show will be held on Thursday 26th & Friday 27th of June and as always, the show will feature popular competitions and displays, including horse jumping, cattle judging, wood chopping, poultry exhibitions, caged birds, and dog events. A family favourite, the animal nursery, will also return, giving children the chance to interact with a variety of friendly farm animals.

While many of the traditional events will be back, organisers are still in the process of securing additional entertainment.

“We will have a new source of entertainment. We try to get something different each year for centre ring,” said Ingham Show Secretary Sharan Kelley.

“We don't want the same thing year after year, a lot of people like motorbikes, but we try to get something different.”

One of the biggest challenges in putting together the event is securing enough volunteers.

The show committee is calling on community members to lend a hand in the week leading up to the event to help with setup, including preparing school displays, mounting photography exhibitions, and assisting with various needs.

Volunteers are also needed during the show to help with cattle and horse events, as well as general operations.

Those who volunteer will be rewarded with free entry to the show and provided with meals while they work.

Despite the challenges, organisers remain optimistic about the show’s success. After last year’s difficulties with wet weather and ground conditions, they are hopeful for smoother preparations this time around.

“We are looking forward to this years show,” said President Wayne Fordin.

“It's always hard, but then once things start to come together, it just flows on.”

With just three months remaining, plenty of work still lies ahead, including fencing repairs, setting up power and water, and preparing the grounds to be in top shape.

However, as everything starts to come together, the reward is seeing the community come together to enjoy the show.

The committee welcomes anyone interested in joining as a volunteer or committee member. Monthly meetings provide an opportunity to contribute ideas and help plan the event, with fresh perspectives always encouraged.

Community involvement is key to keeping this tradition alive, and those passionate about the show are encouraged to get involved. To learn more or lend a hand, reach out to the show committee or attend the next planning meeting.

NQ Travel & Cruise had its official opening last week on Wednesday 2 April and it was well attended.

Mayor Ramon Jayo, Deputy Mayor Mary Brown, and Councillor Patrick Lynch attended to offer congratulations to NQ Travel & Cruise on their opening.

NQ Travel & Cruise owner Kathleen Lynch said she is very excited to have opened her doors.

“It's a wonderful feeling. I'm very happy with everything. My office space is beautiful and I’m ready to welcome wonderful clients through the doors,” she said.

“I will be able to focus my time on planning the best holidays for people and making their bucket list, dreams come true.”

Kathleen has lots of favourite travel destinations but she said the Cook Islands has stood out to her as an island getaway. She loves the beautiful scenery, people and relaxed nature.

Following the extreme weather events that have impacted the Hinchinbrook Shire and other parts of the State of Queensland over past several months, the focus of Council has moved from response to recovery.

Immediately following the flooding, the Recovery Group and sub groups of Infrastructure, Environment, Human and Social and Environment, commenced engagement with local groups to gain an understanding of what the impacts of the event on the community have been and also plan for what actions need to be implemented, to support the transition of the community to reinstate their lives and lifestyles.

The recovery process has now been underway for almost two months and has already seen some pleasing progress made, however we know this will be a marathon journey and are putting the framework in place to ensure capacity to provide the support required to assist the community transition to their new normal.

The 2025 Community Recovery Plan is progressing very well and it is hoped will be in a position to be formally adopted in the coming weeks.

One of the transition actions has seen the Community Recovery Hub previously located in the TAFE building has now relocated to 73-81 Lannercost Street, Ingham. Any locals seeking assistance with grants, providing follow up information for earlier applications or any general assistance requests, of any kind, can visit the Community Information and Referral Centre, which has now opened.

Currently there are representatives from Community Recovery, Lifeline and Department of Housing present at this property. As opportunity allows, there will be other agencies available for referrals or to schedule appointments with representatives. Private consulting rooms and office space will also be available for confidential and discreet appointments and it is planned to also host workshops and information sessions, at this centre.

After years of strongly advocating for Queensland youth offenders, who commit the most heinous crimes, to be sentenced as adults, I was please during last week’s parliamentary sitting to see the state government introduce its latest tranche of Adult Crime, Adult Time legislation.

The new crimes added to this piece of legislation now align with Katter’s Australian Party’s (KAP) original Adult Crime Adult Time policy. I would like to personally thank everyone who joined in to advocate for crimes such as rape and attempted murder to be added to the list. It still baffles me why they were left out of the original Making Queensland Safer laws in the first place.

These changes are a step in the right direction, but until we address the issue of current incarceration methods, any changes to the law will have little effect on the behaviour of youth offenders. We must find a detention method that acts as a deterrent while also being cost effective.

KAP has long advocated for relocation or bush sentencing to be an alternative option for judges when dealing with youth offenders. I am pleased to hear that the LNP government has in part adopted this policy and will soon commence planning and a tender process for their version of it which has been renamed ‘Circuit Breaker Sentencing’.

I am advised that the aim of this program will be to detain youth offenders in remote detention facilities with a combined total of 60 beds. I believe this is the Government’s best chance at really making a difference to youth crime rates and will offer the best avenue for turning around the lives of repeat youth offenders.

But we won’t stop there. I will continue advocating for the introduction of mandatory minimum sentencing and Castle Law to be legislated in Queensland. The kids in this state need to understand that the game is up, and I won’t stop until that message is heard loud and clear.

Contributed with thanks to Nick Dametto MP Member for Hinchinbrook

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Townsville-based developer Maidment Group has made a bold entrance into the local luxury market with Marina Residences – an exclusive waterfront living experience unlike anything else in the region.

With 50% of residences sold within just two months of its launch, Marina Residences has captured the attention of discerning local and interstate buyers who have been waiting for a project of this calibre to emerge in Townsville.

Marina Residences will deliver 18 luxury residences, including 15 three-bedroom apartments and three premium sky homes, with prices starting from $2.7 million.

Positioned at the tip of Mariner’s Peninsula on The Strand, Marina Residences is the first luxury waterfront apartment development introduced to the Townsville market in nearly a decade.

“Marina Residences offers a rare and final opportunity to purchase a luxury waterfront property, in a market that has seen limited supply for so long,” said Glen Maidment, Managing Director of Maidment Group.

“The rapid pace of sales is a testament to the overwhelming demand and excitement surrounding this incredible project.”

A tribute to architectural excellence and refined living, Marina Residences is not just a place to live – it’s a bold statement of luxury and comfort.

Designed by internationally acclaimed architect Bureau Proberts and developed by Maidment Group, this iconic project blends modern elegance with a timeless appeal to create a luxury living experience that is yet to be seen in North Queensland.

Residents will enjoy an unrivalled lifestyle with access to resort-style amenities, including a gym, a private meeting room, a private dining room, and a rooftop pool and sundeck, offering uninterrupted views across the waterfront and east to Magnetic Island.

“Marina Residences is destined to become a landmark project that redefines luxury living in North Queensland,” said Mr Maidment.

“This project has been meticulously designed to provide residents with the ultimate lifestyle enriched with opulence, convenience, and sophistication.”

Strategically located in one of Townsville’s most sought-after precincts, Marina Residences offers residents easy access to local cafes and boutiques, all within a setting that celebrates North Queensland’s natural beauty.

Cementing its status among Australia’s most exceptional waterfront developments, Stage One of Marina Residences was recently awarded Boutique Project of the Year by the Urban Development Institute of Australia. Stage One comprises eight two-level waterfront homes which overlook the picturesque Breakwater Marina.

As construction on Stage Two progresses, Marina Residences is set to become the pinnacle of waterfront luxury in Townsville – offering an unparalleled blend of exclusivity, sophistication, and elegance.

Mayor Ramon Jayo was recently contacted by Taylors Beach residents, expressing their concerns about the poor NBN network, describing it as “a third world”.

In response to this NBN hosted a Community drop-in session, for residents to raise concerns to NBN spokespeople.

“The complaint that I received is that the Internet services are well below standard," explained said Mayor Jayo.

"They were either not there, or when they're there, they drop out all the time, so that they are not reliable.”

“I'm glad that they've come to address those issues.

“I'm very happy they've actually responded, and they have come to talk to the people directly, rather than the information being referred second-hand, and that they are on the ground, engaging with their clientele.

“That's a big positive to go towards addressing what the issues may be.”

Following the complaints an NBN spokesperson said that the the Australian Government and NBN Co have invested $750 million in the nbn® Fixed Wireless network to enhance coverage and deliver faster speeds, which will benefit residents in the Hinchinbrook Shire Council area.

“These upgrades will deliver faster speeds of up to 450mbps wholesale, offering peak wholesale NBN network download speeds of up to five times faster than what was previously available and expand access to NBN Fixed Wireless for the first time for more than 120,000 homes and businesses previously within the NBN Sky Muster satellite service footprint,” they said.

“It’s important to note that any equipment connected via the NBN network will not work during a power outage. Unplanned or unexpected outages to your NBN network connection can occur for many reasons, including severe storms, cyclones, bushfires, car accidents, or trees or branches falling onto power lines.

“NBN understands the inconvenience unplanned outages can cause to users. This is why we have an emergency response team dedicated to preparing for, and responding to, the recovery of the network in emergencies.”

NBN said that at the Community drop-in residents expressed their frustration with communication outages during the recent flood event. They added that it is important to note outages were not limited to NBN’s Fixed Wireless Services, but also other communication networks.

“NBN senior executives are planning to visit the region to meet with community, emergency services, local government and other stakeholders to hear firsthand about the event, their experiences, look at flood damage and options for further resiliency in the network,” an NBN spokesperson said.

“This consultation will provide valuable insights that will help NBN continue to improve emergency preparation and disaster response effectiveness.

“NBN is also meeting with the State Disaster Recovery Coordinator and Queensland Reconstruction Authority to brief on resilience measures and contribute to the development of a State Recovery and Resilience Plan.”

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A tragic accident has rocked the Hinchinbrook community following a fatal two-vehicle crash at Victoria Plantation last week on the 3rd of April.

Emergency services responded to reports of a crash on Ingham Forrest Beach Road at approximately 11:40am, where a silver Hyundai Tucson and a grey Mazda CX-5 had collided.

Sadly, the driver and sole occupant of the Mazda, a 73-year-old Ingham man, was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The driver of the Hyundai, a 76-year-old woman from Forrest Beach, sustained serious injuries and was transported to hospital for treatment.

A Queensland Police Service spokesperson has stated the Forensic Crash Unit is continuing its investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash and authorities are calling on anyone with relevant information or dashcam footage from the area at the time to come forward to assist with inquiries.

Information can be provided via Policelink at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or anonymously through Crime Stoppers by calling 1800 333 000 or visiting www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.

As the investigation continues, thoughts are with the families affected by this devastating incident.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“We need everyone to stay alert.

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

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

Feral deer also hit the farming community hard, with Ted Rowley, Independent Chair of the National Feral Deer Action Plan Committee, showcasing the importance of control efforts.

“Farmers are fed up: deer cause $69 million in agricultural productivity losses and $4.5 million in vehicle and train collisions each year. The Plan is key to stopping these losses," he said.

Jenny O’Sullivan, champion of Victoria’s Cape Liptrap community deer control group says “The free DeerScan app is really important for our community group. Reported sightings enable us to know where the deer are moving about in our community, and to focus our control efforts more effectively”.

Deer by the numbers: costing us ‘deerly’
• Six species of feral deer have become widespread in Australia.
• Deer numbers in Australia are estimated at between 1 and 2 million.
• Feral deer cost the Australian economy about $91.3 million in 2021, including:
o $69.1 in agricultural losses
o $17.8 million in public expenditure for control efforts
o $3.3 million in motor vehicle impacts
o $1.2 million in train collisions