Queenslanders Urged To Stick To Science As Melanoma Rates Remain Highest Worldwide

Health experts are urging Queenslanders to rely on proven medical advice, not social media myths, when it comes to sun safety, as the state continues to record the highest melanoma rates in the world.

Dermatologist Associate Professor Erin McMeniman, from Princess Alexandra Hospital and the University of Queensland’s School of Medicine, says misinformation about sunscreen is spreading online at an alarming rate.

“Particularly in Queensland, most people receive enough sun exposure to produce vitamin D simply through their daily incidental activities, such as hanging out the washing or checking the letterbox,” she said.

She warns that unprotected sun exposure remains the leading cause of melanoma and other skin cancers, with 4,085 Queenslanders diagnosed in 2021 and 385 losing their lives.

“Skin damage can occur after 10 minutes exposure when the UV index is at 3 or above. In Queensland, the UV index is 3 or above all year round, even in winter,” she said.

In recent weeks, UV levels have reached 14 and 15, classified as “extreme”, further emphasising the need for regular sun protection.

Despite these well-established risks, a range of myths persist online, including claims that sunscreen causes cancer, that tans prevent sunburn, or that darker-skinned people cannot get skin cancer. Assoc Prof McMeniman says these claims are not only false, but dangerous.

“Unprotected sun exposure has been proven to cause cancer.”

She adds that sunscreen found in make-up is rarely strong enough to provide real protection.

“You need SPF30 or higher rating to be protected against sun exposure,” she said.

“If it’s not SPF30 or above, you should be wearing additional sunscreen under your makeup when you’re in the sun for an extended period.”

Assoc Prof McMeniman says one of the biggest concerns is the rising number of Queensland children experiencing sunburn, with nearly half reporting at least one burn in the past year.

“Sunburn in childhood, frequent sunburn and sunburn that blisters the skin all increase a person’s susceptibility to UV-related cancers,” she said.

Adults over 60 remain the most at-risk group due to limited sun safety education when they were young. However, she says younger generations are benefiting from decades of awareness campaigns, with melanoma rates now slightly declining in those under 40.

As Queensland heads into another Summer of intense UV levels, the message from experts remains clear: slip, slop, slap and slide, every day.

There’s nothing quite like the taste of homegrown bushtucker. Bringing native Australian plants into your garden is a delicious way to connect with the land and enjoy fresh, seasonal flavours straight from your backyard. Here are four native plants that are easy to grow and a joy to harvest.

Riberry
Riberry, also known as lilly pilly, is a versatile shrub or small tree that brightens the garden with its glossy foliage and colourful fruit. The berries have a unique, spicy flavour with hints of clove and cinnamon, making them ideal for jams, sauces, or desserts. It's a magnet for birds and pollinators, so while you’re enjoying the fruits, your garden is also supporting local wildlife.

Kangaroo Apple
Kangaroo apple is a striking shrub that offers a distinct visual interest to the garden, with vibrant purple flowers and sweet, tangy fruit. The berries are delicious when fully ripe and can be enjoyed fresh or in creative dishes such as salads or preserves.

Lemon Myrtle
Lemon myrtle is a fragrant, evergreen plant prized for its intensely citrus-scented leaves. Perfect for teas, marinades, desserts, or sauces, this rainforest native is both ornamental and highly functional. It can be pruned to a manageable size, making it suitable for gardens of any scale. Lemon myrtle’s year-round leaves and aromatic qualities make it a must-have for any bush-tucker garden.

Midyim Berry
The midyim berry, or midgen berry, is a low-growing shrub with sweet, tangy berries that resemble blueberries. Its copper-toned new growth adds aesthetic charm, and the fruit is perfect for jams, sauces, or simply eating fresh. It also supports pollinators and provides food for native wildlife, making it an excellent choice for gardeners who want to cultivate a productive and ecologically friendly space.

Why Grow Bushtucker?
Native edible plants are naturally adapted to Australian soils and climates, often requiring less water and maintenance than exotic alternatives. They support biodiversity, offering food and habitat for birds, insects, and other wildlife. And, of course, they taste incredible, fresh, unique, and full of nutrients.  A true taste of Australian bush bliss.

Rachel Cauchis' Newest Optometrist

Joining the team around the start of May, the practice’s newest optometrist has quickly settled into his role and has now been here for around seven months. When asked how he is finding it, he laughed, saying how much he enjoyed the office culture, showing he has meshed well with the other optometrists and enjoys the light-hearted environment of the workplace.

Originally from Sydney, he studied optometry at the University of New South Wales. His move north came after a rural placement where he was encouraged to get in touch. After a phone call with Travis Cauchi the practice manager and co-owner, he decided to take a chance, packed everything up and thought, “Why not give it a go?”

In practice, one of his favourite pieces of equipment is the slit lamp, which gives a magnified 3D view of the interior structures of the eye and allows him to closely examine eye anatomy and detect potential eye disease. He has a strong interest in picking up and managing eye disease, particularly in a regional setting where access to specialist care can be limited. He enjoys working closely with visiting ophthalmologists and doing his best to manage patients locally when travel is difficult.

He sees professional development as something that happens every day, learning through experience and exposure to a wide variety of cases. While most of his patients are elderly, they are also his favourites. He enjoys their life stories, their humour and the genuine appreciation they show, which he finds incredibly rewarding.

Outside of work, he enjoys exploring local waterfalls, travelling to Cairns and Townsville, and playing basketball with the local community. He is rarely without his film camera and considers himself more of a beach person, happy to sit by the water for hours.

The Queensland Government has delivered its first major update to crocodile management in almost a decade. The new plan prioritises community safety, with increased patrols and an expansion of removal zones. It represents a commonsense approach to crocodile management.

The Government’s Queensland Crocodile Management Plan puts human safety first and was developed with feedback from communities in North and Far North Queensland, including Ingham.

The plan will implement increased crocodile management measures, including more patrols in high-risk areas and expanded removal zones.

This evidence-based strategy demonstrates the Government’s commitment to listening to local communities and has been shaped by expert recommendations and extensive scientific research.

Key changes for Ingham:
Tyto Wetlands in Ingham to be upgraded to an Active Removal Zone, with the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service to undertake proactive patrols of this area and any crocodile found to be removed.

Regional communities will continue to be consulted on the plan, with a designated four-week annual consultation period and updates made on a rolling basis.

A mandatory review will be conducted every five years to ensure the plan continues to reflect the needs of the communities it impacts. The Government will also continue to remove crocodiles from the wild that pose a threat to public safety.

Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa said the people of his electorate voted for change, and he was proud to deliver it in his first week as local Member.

“Hinchinbrook now has a seat at the government table and work has already begun to deliver the fresh start we promised – starting with a new crocodile management plan that puts the safety of people first in Ingham,” Mr Chiesa said.

“Upgrading Tyto Wetlands to an Active Removal Zone is the commonsense approach that’s needed and has been lacking for far too long under the former Government.”

Mayor of Hinchinbrook regional council, Ramon Jayo, said it was a practical step to protect the area but to remain Crocwise.

"TYTO Wetlands and the surrounding precinct remain one of our most popular destinations.

While crocodiles are a natural part of life in North Queensland, proactive management is essential to keep visitors safe.

Recent changes by the Queensland Government will allow for increased patrols and the targeted removal of crocodiles that pose a risk to the community.

Crocodiles are part of our environment, so staying Crocwise is about using common sense—be alert near waterways, keep your distance, and never take chances."

With Christmas party season in full swing and parking at a premium in suburban streets, Ergon Energy Network is reminding motorists to take extra care around the green electrical pillar boxes found in front yards in housing estates with underground power.

Last year alone, there were nearly 800 incidents of vehicles striking electrical infrastructure in Queensland, including pillar boxes, power poles and Padmount substations.

These incidents also affected power supply to nearly 120,000 regional Queensland homes and businesses.

With more cars squeezed onto footpaths and front yards during the festive season, the risk is even higher.

Work Group Leader Alex Worship said the festive season often sees people parking close to where pillar boxes are located.

“We know everyone’s excited to celebrate with family and friends, but please keep an eye out for our green pillar boxes when parking,” Mr Worship said.

“They’re not just boxes. They house live electrical components and hitting one can be extremely dangerous.

“When vehicles strike a pillar box, the impact can damage live electrical parts inside, potentially causing the body of the car itself to become live with electricity.

“If someone then steps out of the vehicle, their body could complete the circuit, causing the current to earth through them - possibly resulting in life-threatening injuries or worse.”

If you hit a pillar box or any electrical equipment remember:
Stay in your vehicle
Call Triple Zero (000)
Wait for emergency help to arrive

If there is a fire and people must leave the vehicle, the safest way is to open the door as wide as possible and jump from the vehicle, being careful not to touch both the car and ground at the same time.

Once out of the vehicle, either shuffle your feet or keep jumping and landing with both feet together until you’re at least 10 metres away.

Mr Worship also urged bystanders to resist the urge to help.

“It’s human nature to want to assist, but please stay back because the vehicle could be live with electricity. Keep at least 10 metres away from the car and any electrical equipment,” he said.

“We want everyone to enjoy a safe and happy Christmas and a little extra care when parking can prevent a tragedy.”

Region Description      Number of Outages      Customers Interrupted
Far North                      86                                  45,807
North Queensland       69                                   11,262

A Festive Message From Wayde Chiesa

I would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank everyone across the Hinchinbrook community who offered their support, encouragement and assistance recently. Whether you volunteered your time, shared a kind word, displayed a sign, or simply stopped for a conversation, your support meant more than I can express.

To the residents of our patch of paradise, thank you for having your say. Listening to your concerns, ideas and hopes for the future has been a privilege, and I remain committed to working hard for you.

As we now approach the festive season, I would like to wish everyone a safe, joyful and Merry Christmas. I hope this time brings you the opportunity to slow down, spend time with loved ones, and reflect on the year that has been. I also extend my very best wishes for a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year.

I would also like to offer my sincere thanks to those that will be working over this time, those in retail, hospitality, emergency services and our volunteers, thank you for what you do.

May the holiday season bring peace, happiness and renewed hope to you and your family.

Please note that our office will reopen in 2026, and I look forward to continuing to engage with and support our community in the year ahead.

Hiya Hinchinbrook Shire,

This week's reflections are on the end of the year and how far we have come together.

Hinchinbrook Life turned 1, a big moment for physical news publications in our region. I am also approaching my first year as an in-field journalist. It has been so fun to work and grow with you all.

I have also made the big transition from a life in the city to one on the coast and in the country. It was frightening at first, not knowing anyone or having the convenience of city life at my fingertips. But I feel like I have really settled into my life out here.

Being in the Shire has given me the opportunities I couldn't have pursued in the bustle of the city. Here, I get to be part of the land and the community on a deeper level, and I have never felt more connected to a people than I do with the welcome and encouragement Hinchinbrook has shown me.

Here I get to follow passions I couldn't in the city, like horse riding and finding inspiration for painting.

Thank you, Hinchinbrook. Happy holidays, and here's to another year together!

Victoria

Imagine the joy of a child waking up on Christmas morning, eyes wide with wonder as they unwrap a gift they never expected.

For hundreds of families across Hinchinbrook, that moment will be possible because their community had their back when times were tough.

This year’s Mayor’s Christmas Appeal has seen an overwhelming outpouring of generosity from the Hinchinbrook community.

Toys, non-perishable food items, and cash donations have flowed in from every corner of the region — so much so that volunteers haven’t been able to keep up with counting the gifts.

What we do know is that $650 in cash donations, alongside hundreds of toys, gift vouchers and non-perishable food that will brighten the festive season for those who need it most.

Hinchinbrook Shire Council Mayor Ramon Jayo said the response reflects the true spirit of Hinchinbrook.

“I am deeply moved by the kindness shown by our community. The sheer volume of donations has been incredible — so many toys, so much food, and generous cash contributions,” Mayor Jayo said.

“Every single gift represents hope and joy for a family doing it tough. Thank you to our community who gave so selflessly. You’ve reminded us of all what Christmas is truly about.”

Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre CEO Linda McClelland said the impact will be felt far beyond Christmas Day.

“Thanks to the Mayor’s Christmas Appeal and the generosity of this community, hundreds of local families will wake up to gifts under the tree and food on the table,” Ms McClelland said.

“For many, this means the world. It’s more than presents — it’s dignity, it’s relief, and it’s the reassurance that their community cares. We are so grateful to the Mayor, Council, and every donor for making this possible.”

The Mayor’s Christmas Appeal is a proud Hinchinbrook tradition, with all donations going directly to the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre, which provides emergency relief, food assistance, and referral services to vulnerable families across the region.

The Cardwell RSL Sub Branch recently treated members to a free Christmas Banquet, generously provided by Peter Brown. The occasion was well attended and thoroughly enjoyed, with plenty of festive cheer shared throughout the afternoon. Pictured are John Saunders and Ken Johnson, who were more than happy to make the most of the celebrations and enjoy a refreshment or two as part of the festivities. The banquet itself was nothing short of exceptional, with many agreeing it is unlikely there will ever be a bigger or better feast served at the Cardwell RSL.

“Our thanks to all our members, and especially our volunteers who have supported us so well in 2025,” said Robert Lang, President of the Cardwell RSL Sub Branch.

The event provided a wonderful opportunity to bring members together to celebrate the Christmas season and reflect on another year of camaraderie and service.

As we come to the close of another year at Hinchinbrook Community Pharmacy, we want to pause and say a heartfelt thank you to our incredible customers and community.

This year was not without its challenges. The February floods tested Hinchinbrook in ways many of us will never forget. Homes, businesses, routines and peace of mind were all disrupted, and for some, the road back has been long and exhausting. Through it all, we witnessed something truly powerful: resilience, kindness, and a community that looks after its own.

During those difficult weeks, you showed patience when deliveries were delayed, understanding when stock was limited, and gratitude when our team did everything possible to keep essential medicines and services available. Many of you checked in on our staff, shared updates, and supported not just us, but each other. That spirit is what defines Hinchinbrook.

Despite the hardships, this has been a remarkable year for our pharmacy. Every prescription filled, every piece of advice given, every late afternoon consult and quiet reassurance was made meaningful because you chose to support a local, family-owned business. Your trust allows us to keep improving our services, expanding what we offer, and being here when you need us most — not just in good times, but in the tough ones too.

We are deeply proud to serve a community that values connection, compassion, and resilience. Whether you popped in for a script, advice, a quick chat, or simply a familiar face, you are the reason we do what we do.

As we look ahead to the new year, we do so with gratitude, optimism, and a renewed commitment to caring for Hinchinbrook — whatever comes our way.

From all of us at Hinchinbrook Community Pharmacy, thank you for an incredible year, for your loyalty, and for standing strong together.

Here’s to calmer days, better health, and a brighter year ahead.

The Team at Hinchinbrook Community Pharmacy

Ever been out at the beach, finished your drink, and thought, “I’ll just toss this in the bin”?

We’ve all done it. But here’s the thing, those bottles and cans aren’t just rubbish.

They’re worth money, and more importantly, they’re worth saving from landfill.

That’s why I’m excited about Hinchinbrook’s Pay-It-Forward Stations. They’re simple, clever, and they make recycling easy for everyone.

Instead of throwing your containers away, you pop them into a PiF Station. Anyone can donate, anyone can collect — no strings attached.

Maybe you’re someone who loves recycling but doesn’t want the hassle of chasing refunds. Or maybe you know someone who could use a few extra dollars. Either way, this system works because it’s about community helping community.

Here’s the reality: every year, about 870,000 drink containers in Hinchinbrook end up as litter or in landfill.

That’s roughly $87,000 in refunds gone — along with valuable materials and precious landfill space. PiF Stations help fix that.

We’ve got two types. One has small holders on fences or posts for quick drop-offs and the other has bigger cages near public bins for when you’ve got more to give

It’s easy, and it makes a difference. Cleaner parks, less litter, and a little extra pocket money for someone who needs it.

Western Australia has already shown how successful this idea can be, and now Hinchinbrook is proud to be part of the change and what we’ve done is being trialled across multiple local government areas in Queensland.

So before you toss it, think about it. The smallest action you can do will make a big difference in our community when it comes to waste management.

In closing, I would like to say Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all our ratepayers and visitors to our region.

By Maurice Filei, secretary of the Ingham Branch National Servicemen's Association of Australia

The Ingham Branch National Servicemen's Association of Australia held their final meeting at the Herbert River RSL recently, to swap memories and say their farewells to a historic part of the hinchinbrook community.

On the 16th June, 2002, State Treasurer Neil Freier and Liaison Officer Ray Lower, together with other District members, gathered at the Herbert River RSL to form an Ingham Branch of the NSAA. An early highlight of the Branch was the presentation by the Hon. Bob Katter of over 50 National Service medals, either personally or posthumously. The District RSL President, Rodger Bow and the Herbert River RSL President Lloyd Greentree, suggested that the local branch should lead the 2003 Anzac Day Parade. The end result was that a photo of the Nashos leading the parade and ended up on the front page of the HRE, State Newspapers and the front cover of the Nashos State Magazine.

The Ingham Branch received its Charter on the 25th September 2003 at the Mackay State Conference, presented to the Inaugural President, John W Pearson, by the State President Colin Bell. Also in 2003, Inaugural President, John W Pearson, Inaugural Secretary Maurice Filei and Inaugural Treasurer, Rod Pearce, joined the Ingham Branch of Townsville Legacy.

The next milestone was the unveiling, on Remembrance Day, 11 November 2004, of the Ingham District Branch Memorial, located in the Memorial Park adjacent to the Cenotaph. The impressive stone was donated by Mayor Pino Giandomenico, in association with I Q C. However, the greatest triumph of our local branch, undoubtedly, was the construction of the Nasho Memorial Wall, located at the New Ingham Cemetery.

Presently, 110 bronze plaques are affixed to the Wall, commemorating the service of deceased Nashos from the Army, Navy and Air Force. This year marks the 75th Anniversary of the first Intake of National Servicemen,1951-1972. National Service was compulsory. Some 287,000 young Australian men were called up, in 2 separate schemes, for compulsory training. Of these, 212 died on active service in Borneo and Vietnam. National Service was Australia’s defence readiness for over 20 years.

From its inception Ingham Branch of Nashos has enjoyed the help from volunteers. Most notable being Reverend Peter Blackburn, who has volunteered his time and energy on numerous occasions as Honorary Pastor, at all times when needed for services relating to the demise of Nashos, Memorial Services, Service Dinners, etc. Ably assisted by our always ready to volunteer, Honorary Bugler Louie Piotto.

Sadly, from 2026 onwards, Nashos, as we know it, will cease to exist...

As 2025 draws to a close, the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre (HCSC) reflects with pride on another year of serving our community and upholding the role of the “HUB” as a place of support, connection and resilience.

The year began with immediate and urgent demands, as devastating flood events impacted the Hinchinbrook region. Our staff responded swiftly, providing support to community members affected by the floods. Notably, several staff members were themselves impacted by inundation yet continued to assist others who had experienced loss and displacement. This commitment exemplifies the dedication and compassion of our workforce.

Throughout 2025, HCSC has continued to witness the strength of a close-knit community that actively looks after its own. Whether through accessing our Emergency Relief services, referring a friend or family member, or seeking support through our Domestic and Family Violence and Homelessness programs, community members have shown immense courage in reaching out for assistance. While support services are often under significant demand, every request for help contributes to a broader understanding of community need. This data inform government reporting and play a vital role in shaping future policy, legislation and funding opportunities that enable expanded support across Queensland.

This year also marked a significant milestone with the completion of new community housing developments. These dwellings have provided safe and stable accommodation for elderly community members who were at risk of homelessness or living in substandard conditions. Our Housing Team continues to manage a range of properties, including crisis properties, family homes and single-occupancy dwellings, ensuring safe and secure housing options remain available to those most in need.

Our Maintenance Team has worked tirelessly throughout the year, managing flood-affected homes and community spaces in addition to maintaining regular service schedules. Their visible presence and practical support across the region have been invaluable during recovery efforts.

Alongside emergency and housing services, HCSC has continued to deliver a range of community and youth programs aimed at managing trauma, reducing social isolation and strengthening community connection. These programs remain an essential part of fostering inclusion, wellbeing and resilience within the Hinchinbrook community.

We also wish to acknowledge and sincerely thank the many schools, small businesses, large organisations and individual community members who generously supported our annual Christmas Appeal, either directly or through donations to the Mayor’s Christmas Appeal. Through these collective efforts, more than 200 children and families were supported with Christmas cheer during the festive season. Your generosity has made a meaningful difference and brought hope and joy to many households.

As we reflect on the year that was, we are deeply grateful for the strength, kindness and solidarity shown across the Hinchinbrook community.

From all of us at the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre, we wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a safe, happy and prosperous New Year.

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'As 2025 draws to a close, the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre (HCSC) reflects with pride on another year of serving our community'. Photos supplied

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Safety is Optus’ number one priority and we understand that being connected, especially during an Australian summer, is extremely important. That is why we’re updating everyone on the proactive steps Optus is taking to ensure our customers are only using phones that can connect to Emergency Services.

What’s happening?
Some mobile devices, particularly those with outdated software or those purchased or configured overseas may experience issues connecting to Emergency Services in rare mobile network scenarios. This means that identified incompatible devices will be blocked from the Optus network and will not be able to make or receive calls/texts or use data on the Optus mobile network. These challenges are not unique to Optus; they also exist across other networks.

Our commitment:
Keeping our customers safe is our first priority. Optus invests $1.4 billion annually to improve and grow our network, including expanding 5G coverage. We work closely with government, the Triple Zero Custodian, other telcos, and mobile device manufacturers to strengthen emergency calling systems.

What we’re doing:
Communicating to impacted customers: When we identify issues, we alert customers promptly. It’s vital that anyone receiving a message from Optus, or any carrier requesting they take action to ensure they can call Emergency Services, follows the instructions provided.

Comprehensive Testing: End-to-end device and network testing, including emergency call scenarios.

Collaboration: Partnering with handset manufacturers and network suppliers to resolve issues quickly.

Network Evolution Validation: Ensuring emergency calling works as new technologies roll out.

Continuous Monitoring: Live network monitoring and investigations to improve reliability.

We encourage Australians to take simple steps to stay safe:
Check your mobile device, because if you receive an SMS or email from your telco provider asking you to take action to ensure your phone works during an emergency action, do so immediately. Optus customers can visit our website, stores, or call our Customer Centre.

Update your phones software and always install the latest updates. Consider upgrading older or overseas devices and check with your manufacturer to ensure it meets current Australian Emergency Services calling requirements.

Be patient during emergencies as calls to Emergency Services (i.e. ‘000’ & ‘112) may take up to 60 seconds, and in some cases minutes to connect in blackspots or during outages.

Have a plan to stay online and in touch with your loved ones and Emergency Services. Visit our webpage for advice on staying connected during natural disasters.

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By Jonny Paul of Abergowrie

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At Christmas in Ingham it’s sticky and sweet.
The sugar’s been cut and they melt in the heat.

All tools have been downed and the cane knives are blunt.
It's time for the boys with the pig dogs to hunt.

And after they've butchered a sow or a boar -
they'll drink ‘til they're blind and can't drink any more.

The church is packed out for the Christmas Eve mass -
where Jesus is laid with the cows, sheep and ass.

St Patrick's is brimming and bursts with the cheer -
of people who make it there twice in a year.

Beer cartons of ‘middies’, like Northern and Gold,
have been well stocked up for the young and the old.

And bright the next morning when Santa's been through -
you'd struggle to witness a merrier crew.

The families all gather, while women prepare
roast turkey with gnocchis and veggies to share.

To squeeze them all in a huge table is dressed
with colours and crackers and food to be blessed.

There's feasting and music and plenty of booze -
‘til Nonno creeps off to his chair for a snooze.

The aircon is blasting but no-one gets cool -
so Christmas in Ingham spills into the pool.

With four generations in some of these homes,
all living in paradise - nobody roams.

You might hear the sound of a bat and a ball -
as cricket is played in the street or the hall.

The ice in the esky puts up a good fight -
it's 40 degrees in the day and the night.

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