Whether you’re settling into a new home, revamping your garden, or simply refreshing your living space, the way we shape our surroundings has a powerful impact on how we feel. A well-loved home doesn’t have to be perfect – it just needs to reflect your personality, support your lifestyle, and offer a sense of comfort.

In recent years, we’ve seen a growing trend towards practical and sustainable design choices in both homes and gardens. People are making the most of indoor-outdoor flow, bringing nature in with potted plants and leafy corners, and turning unused spaces into productive gardens. Even a small courtyard or balcony can be transformed into a thriving herb patch or flower haven with a few clever containers and a splash of creativity.

Inside the home, it’s all about balance and function. Storage solutions are getting smarter, colour palettes are more calming, and natural materials remain popular for their warmth and timeless appeal. Whether you’re into upcycled vintage finds or sleek modern finishes, there’s always room for both beauty and practicality.

Local trades and services are also a key part of home improvement. From landscape designers and builders to painters and plant nurseries, tapping into regional expertise not only boosts your own space but supports the community too.

No matter the size of your home or garden, small improvements can make a big difference. Start where you are, use what you have, and watch your space come to life.

Would you like to shine a light on your business while connecting with the Hinchinbrook business community? The Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Tourism is inviting local businesses to host a Chamber Event. It is a great opportunity to boost your visibility, grow your network, and show the community what you do.

You can choose how you want to take part. There are two event styles available: Coffee Connections and Showcase Your Business, or you can even combine both.

Coffee Connections is a morning event held from 7:30am to 9:00am. You open your doors to local professionals and community members, offer coffee and light refreshments, and welcome a guest speaker. It is a relaxed and social setting designed to encourage conversations and connections.

Showcase Your Business events can be held at a time that suits you. These sessions give you the chance to walk attendees through your space, introduce your team, and highlight your services or products in action.

Whether you choose a morning catch-up or a full tour of your operations, Chamber Events are all about celebrating and supporting local business. The Chamber will help tailor the event to suit your needs.

To learn more or to get involved, contact the Hinchinbrook Chamber today at: admin@hinchinbrookchamber.com.au

Loneliness Awareness Week has just wrapped up, and it was a good reminder to check in on those around you: When was the last time you called your mum? Sent a message to your mate? Or checked in with yourself?

Loneliness doesn’t always look like isolation, it can sneak in quietly. When you feel flat around people, keep busy to avoid thinking, or just don’t feel like “yourself.”

In small towns like Ingham, where life is full and familiar, it can be hard to speak up.

That’s why we’re growing our team here at Tumbleweed Therapies. We’ve been offering outreach clinics in Ingham for over two years now, and we’re excited to welcome Lucia Bunce, an accredited counsellor, to the local team. Lucia brings seven years of experience, a calm, grounded approach, and a passion for helping people feel heard and understood.

Whether it’s stress, anxiety, low mood, grief, burnout or something else you can’t quite name, having someone to talk to can make all the difference. Having someone to talk to is the first step toward overcoming loneliness.

Take the time to check in on yourself so you’re in the right space to check in on others, too.

Support is closer than you think. Contact the Tumbleweed Therapies team on 07 4463 8679, or email intake@tumbleweedtherapies.com and check out their website: www.tumbleweedtherapies.com.au.

Help is right around the corner.

On Monday, the 18th of August, we commemorate the 59th anniversary of a battle between North Vietnamese and Australian Army soldiers. The result was at least 245 Vietnamese Soldiers killed, 18 Aussies killed, and 39 wounded. Those who survived the battle agree that without the Australian, United States and in particular the New Zealand Artillery, the Australian casualties would have been much higher.

There were many other battles during the 10-year war (1962 – 1972), but the Battle of Long Tan was the one that cost Australia the most casualties. Eventually, 521 Aussies paid the ultimate sacrifice in the jungles of South Vietnam, and approximately 3,000 were wounded out of a total force of 61,000.

Like those who used to gather to remember their comrades after the First World War, then the 2nd World War, the Korean War, and the Malayan Emergency. Long Tan Day or Vietnam Veterans Day will eventually morph into Veterans Day, and it is the fervent wish of all Veterans that other young men will never again be selected by birthday lottery to serve in another bloody war.

LEST WE FORGET

Contributed by Robert Lang, President of the Cardwell RSL Sub Branch

Get ready for a full day of thrills, spills, and non-stop excitement as the 2025 Long Pocket Earthmoving Ingham Sugar City Rodeo is just around the corner. On Saturday, 6 September, the Ingham Showgrounds will come alive with adrenaline-pumping rodeo action, family fun, and a true celebration of the region’s rural heritage.

Gates open at 8:00am, giving spectators the perfect chance to grab a great seat and soak in the atmosphere before the main events kick off. This year’s program features more than 25 rodeo events, from juniors and novice riders to professional competitions, feature events, and the ever-popular charity ride. Expect top-quality stock, provided by local contractors, and professional competition thanks to the event’s ABCRA affiliation.

Beyond the arena, the day offers something for everyone. Enjoy live music, tempting food stalls, local market vendors, and the warm hospitality that makes Ingham such a special place.

“This event is not just about the rodeo, it’s about bringing people together,” said a representative from the Ingham Rodeo Committee. “It’s a true celebration of Ingham and everything we love about life in the north.”

Whether you’re cheering from the grandstands, browsing market stalls, or tucking into a hearty meal from a local food truck, this is a highlight of the North Queensland events calendar you won’t want to miss.

What: 2025 Ingham Sugar City Rodeo
When: Saturday 6 September 2025, gates open 8:00am
Where: Ingham Showgrounds, Ingham

Mark 10th Birdlife Art Awards

More than 280 people gathered to celebrate Hinchinbrook Shire Council’s 10th Birdlife Art Awards at the TYTO Regional Art Gallery on Friday night, 1 August 2025. This milestone event continues to honour the rich birdlife of the Hinchinbrook region through the eyes of talented artists from across Queensland, New South Wales, and Victoria. It features an impressive 106 entries across various mediums, including drawing, painting, photography, sculpture, and mixed media.

Open Award winner Kevin Young was emotional after the announcement, they said. “To be chosen from among so many amazing works—it’s given me the boost to keep pushing myself, and I hope it inspires others to keep going too.”

Birdlife Art Awards Open To Celebrate 10 Years Of Creativity And Conservation

Cr Donna Marbelli, Council’s Community and Culture Service Portfolio holder, said each piece showcases bird species found in Hinchinbrook, home to over 230 bird species, to the broader natural landscapes that inspire our local creatives.

“The Birdlife Art Awards are more than just an art competition,” Cr Marbelli said. “They’re a celebration of our environment, our community, and the incredible talent we have in our backyard.”

Kevin Young won the Birdlife Art Awards' top prize for their striking piece Brolga, which impressed judges with its creativity, technique, and deep connection to Hinchinbrook’s birdlife. The artwork was inspired by a powerful moment on a road trip, when Kevin witnessed a pair of brolgas dancing in a paddock, a sight that left a lasting impact.

“We pulled over and just watched,” Kevin recalled. “They started doing their dance, and it was an emotional event. And when the male threw his head, that image stayed in my mind, and so I had to do something with it. I had to. It's not a choice. It was a need to do so.”

Nick Dametto MP was among the many guests at the opening night and praised the calibre of entries and the dedication of organisers; "Every year I'm absolutely blown away, just like the locals that attend and people that come from out of town to enjoy the inaugural Bird Life Awards, it's absolutely spectacular.

The event is proudly supported by valued sponsors, each of whom has chosen a specific award category to sponsor:

Open Award sponsored by Windlab – Kevin Young: Brolga
Local Artist Award sponsored by Guido’s Panel and Paint – Sharon Cislowski: What the water knows
Youth Award sponsored by Ingham Real Estate - Esther-Rose McCaul: Black Cockatoo
Painting (2D) sponsored by Bisson’s Electrical – Kristina Fontana: Peewee Afterparty
Watercolour sponsored by Frosty Mango – Sahan Kulathunge: The Black Beauty
Mixed Media sponsored by Jenark Business Solutions – Diane Beningfield: Terrible Trio
Works on Paper – Amy Venn: The Bathers
Photography sponsored by Wilmar Sugar and Renewables – Stan Skeates: Pull the other one
Creamics – Meg Allford: Backyard Visitor
Sculptural Form sponsored by KDM Allsorts – Fran Nason: Cockatoo Sunrise

Voting for the People’s Choice Award sponsored by Hinchinbrook MP Nick Dametto will remain open until the close of the exhibition, with the winner of this category announced on Wednesday, 3rd September 2025.

To vote, please visit the TYTO Regional Art Gallery. The 10th Hinchinbrook Birdlife Art Awards will be on display daily from 10:00am to 4:00pm until Saturday, 30th August 2025. The full gallery of social photos from the opening night is avaliable online at: hinchinbrooklife.com

Friends of a feather celebrating art together, if you haven't yet, go and see all the beautiful birds artfully depicted in the Tyto Gallery. It's flocking fantastic to see the skill and love for Hinchinbrook's birdlife on display. I know I was thrown to the wind by a few of the pieces, and maybe you fall so in love with one, you may even purchase it to take home after the exhibition finishes.

This week was also a time to recognise our local legends and heroes, Police and Rural Fireies, receiving awards for their dedication and service. I got to meet Ian of the Ingahm S.E.S., and I can say I never knew how much they did for the community. Thank you all for your service to this community and beyond.

Things are also ramping up for the Australian UFO festival. This looks to be the best festival for anyone who loves everything about the stars and beyond, and as someone who has never experienced an alien encounter (yet!), I am definitely looking forward to reporting on it, maybe I'll even see a few of you there enjoying the workshops or partying it up in your best alien disguises.

Victoria

Fun Fact: Spaceballs is a 1987 American space opera parody film co-written, produced and directed by Mel Brooks. It primarily parodies the original Star Wars trilogy and was one of the first sci-fi films I ever saw, sparking a love for Mel Brooks films and the sci-fi genre. Doctor Who was also a childhood favourite, who's your favourite Doctor?

In the wake of February’s devastating weather event, the Lions District of North Queensland, in partnership with Lions Clubs International, has launched a special Disaster Recovery Fund to support flood-affected families across the Hinchinbrook and Cassowary Coast regions.

With up to $1000 available per household, the fund is designed to assist those who have suffered severe loss or disruption due to the floods. It can help cover essential items and immediate needs, from replacing basic household goods to easing the financial burden of recovery and rebuilding their lives.

For the Lions Club, every contribution counts towards the journey of restoration.

The initiative reflects the Lions’ enduring commitment to community service, ensuring that support is not only fast-tracked but also local and accessible. More than a financial contribution, this fund is a gesture of solidarity, recognising that real recovery takes time, care and collective effort. List your preferred supplier and shop locally too; recipients are encouraged to support their local businesses, which were also impacted by the flood.

For more information or to apply for assistance, contact the Ingham Lions Club at inghamlionsclub@gmail.com.

In times of crisis, the Lions are once again proving that when a disaster strikes, kindness and community rise to meet it.

The devastating flooding event that impacted our region in February 2025 caused widespread damage, leaving homes and businesses reeling in its aftermath. One of the most serious consequences was the inundation and shutdown of the Ingham substation, which plunged the entire district into darkness and disrupted telecommunications at a time when we needed them most.

This significant power outage during a natural disaster made an already difficult situation even more challenging. The loss of electricity not only impacted homes and businesses but also vital communication and emergency response capabilities. In times of crisis, maintaining power should not be a luxury, it is a necessity. During a flooding event, our electrical distribution asset should be more resilient.

I recently submitted a Question on Notice to the Energy Minister, seeking clarity on what steps are being taken to flood-mitigate the Ingham substation. Specifically, I asked whether funding had been allocated, what planning was underway, and when we could expect to see tangible outcomes delivered.

In response, the Energy Minister has advised that Ergon Energy Corporation Limited (Ergon) has submitted a funding application to the Australian Government’s Disaster Ready Fund for flood mitigation works for the Ingham Substation.

More notably, Energy Queensland has also advised that provisions have been made in the 2025-26 Budget for Ergon’s expected share of the works, with Ergon expressing confidence that critical works will be completed before the 2025-26 summer period.

This is a timeframe that reflects the urgency and importance of ensuring that Hinchinbrook Shire isn’t left in the dark again during our next flooding event. I am hopeful that we will see construction at the Ingham substation commence soon, which is a favourable outcome for the whole community.

These works are not just infrastructure upgrades, they are a necessary investment in Hinchinbrook’s safety, resilience and ability to respond in times of crisis.

I would like to extend appreciation to those who have advocated and thank you to the relevant Ministers, the Hinchinbrook Shire Council, Ergon Energy and Energy Queensland for committing to deliver this flood resilience project.

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Sporting and recreation clubs across North and Far North Queensland impacted by early 2025’s severe flooding can now apply for a share in a $30 million funding package to help repair and rebuild their facilities.

The Sport and Recreation Recovery Program (SRRG) — a joint initiative by the Albanese and Crisafulli Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) — offers up to $1 million per facility for eligible not-for-profit sport and racing clubs, as well as local councils.

Funding can be used to restore damaged facilities, equipment and infrastructure including canteens, amenities, playing courts, fences, lighting, racetracks, electrical systems, synthetic pitches, shade structures and carparks. In some cases, facilities may also be rebuilt to more resilient standards to help mitigate the impacts of future disasters.

The program aims to minimise disruption to community life and help resume local sporting competitions and recreational activities as soon as possible.

Earlier this year, North Queensland endured more than 12 consecutive days of monsoonal rain during January and February, with some regions recording over two metres of rainfall. Widespread flooding caused significant damage across the Hinchinbrook, Cassowary Coast, Burdekin, Charters Towers and Townsville local government areas.

Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kirsty McBain emphasised the importance of supporting community hubs.

“When disaster hits, it’s not just homes and roads that are impacted, it’s the places where people come together, and that includes local sporting grounds and community facilities," Minister McBain said.

“This program is about making sure recovery reaches every corner of the community, including the clubs and spaces that bring people together after tough times.

“We’ll keep working alongside the Queensland Government and local councils to make sure communities have the support they need to rebuild stronger and more resilient than before.”

Queensland Minister for Sport Tim Mander said the funding would assist with the next stage of the recovery.

“With the initial cleanups completed, this funding package is about making the more expansive repairs needed to ensure clubs can fully recuperate," Minister Mander said.

“Assessments are ongoing, and we will continue to extend the eligibility as more clubs continue to seek support.

“I encourage clubs and councils to contact their local Sport and Recreation officer to see if they may be eligible. We want our clubs to get back on their feet so Queenslanders can not only experience the physical and mental health benefits of sport but also the togetherness that these clubs bring to the community.”

Queensland Minister for Disaster Recovery Ann Leahy said the support was critical in restoring the heartbeat of affected regions.

“It is a well-known fact that sport and recreation plays a vital role in the community by providing much needed extracurricular activity through sport and social activities," Minister Leahy said.

“Restoring the operations of impacted facilities contributes significantly to community recovery.”

Clubs and councils can find eligibility guidelines and application details online at www.qld.gov.au/recreation/sports/funding/sport-and-recreation-recovery-grant, and more general disaster help information is available at www.qld.gov.au/disasterhelp.

On the evening of Thursday the 31st of July the Queensland Police Service (QPS) Forensic Crash Unit were called to investigate a fatal traffic crash in Ingham.

Emergency services responded at around 10:50pm to reports that a pedestrian had been struck by a white Toyota Hilux on Trebonne Road. Tragically, the pedestrian, a 54-year-old Rowes Bay man, died at the scene.

The driver of the vehicle, a 36-year-old Bemerside man, and a passenger, a 22-year-old Aitkenvale man, were not physically injured.

Investigations are ongoing into what caused the crash and police are appealing to anyone who witnessed the incident, or who may have dashcam or CCTV footage from the areas around the time of the crash to come forward.

To report information contact Policelink at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or call 131 444 and quote the reference number QP2501346729.

Each August, Loneliness Awareness Week reminds us that human connection is vital. Embracing this year’s theme ‘Moments Matter’, selectability Ingham’s Clubhouse demonstrates how everyday interactions such as shared meals, creative projects, or simply a cuppa and a chat, are helping to overcome social isolation and loneliness.

With research showing 1 in 6 Australians experience severe loneliness, a condition as harmful to physical health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day, selectability’s Clubhouse program offers a recovery-oriented solution to overcoming social isolation.

selectability’s Ingham Regional Coordinator, Julie Ross, said their Breakfast Club had become a popular way to bring the community together to share a meal and connect with others, as it's available for everyone to enjoy.

“The theme of this year’s Loneliness Awareness Week ‘Moments Matter’, really does demonstrate that simple activities like Breakfast Club can create small moments that can make a positive difference," said Julie.

“Overcoming loneliness and building connection and purpose can all start by starting your day with a good feed surrounded by friendly faces and great conversation.”

Held every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 6:30am to 8:00am at the Canegrowers Building, 11-13 Lannercost Street, the Breakfast Club initiative aims to provide a warm meal and space that fosters a sense of belonging for the whole community to enjoy.

For anyone over 18 seeking support to improve their mental wellbeing, there are a range of NDIS packages available, and funding options for those not on the scheme. To find out more, contact Julie and the team on 07 4781 2690.

An All-Ages Community Event

To mark the beginning of celebrations for 2025 National Skills Week, on Saturday, August 23, North Queensland Senior School and training organisation, Tec-NQ, will throw open its doors for an all-ages Open Day with a difference. With 69 trades currently identified as experiencing a national skills shortage, there is no better time to try out a trade.

Tec-NQ Chief Executive Officer Ross Jorgensen said this year’s Open Day will be an all-ages celebration of everything trade, offering something of interest for the whole family.

“Again in 2025, we’ll have a selection of industry partners displaying unique and emerging technical tools of trade. Teachers, trainers, industry partners and students will also be on hand to talk about undertaking a work-based education at Tec-NQ” he added.

There will be hands-on try-a-trade activities for all ages. Kids can rev up a big diesel motor, teens can wire a circuit board, and everyone can test their welding skills on the augmented reality simulator. Plus, engage in interactive activities and small take-home projects.

Tec-NQ is a Registered Training Organisation (RTO), an independent senior secondary school and an accredited boarding school with extensive industry networks to deliver trade-based career opportunities for North Queensland students. Tec-NQ House, located in Rosslea, accommodates up to 40 male boarding students from remote and rural communities completing their schooling at Tec-NQ.

The Open Day runs from 9am – 12.30pm on Saturday 23rd August at their campus at 54 Discovery Drive in Douglas. Register for a campus tour and information session at tecnq.com.au

The Cardwell RSL Sub Branch hosted a memorable cheque presentation ceremony on Sunday the 27th of July, marking yet another act of generosity from the organisation. The latest donation ensures the Sub Branch will receive an invitation to the Over 65’s Lions Christmas Party later this year, an exciting event all members are eager to attend.

So far in 2025, Cardwell RSL has donated more than $13,000 to various community organisations, including local schools, the Coast Guard, and other non-profits.

Much of the funding for these donations comes from the Sub Branch’s popular Sunday BBQ and buffet lunches. At just $10 per person, the spread which includes a wide variety of fresh salads—continues to draw crowds, with 66 diners attending last weekend alone.

The ongoing success of these community lunches is thanks to the dedication of Cardwell RSL’s volunteers. From manning the BBQ and kitchen to running the bar, the volunteer team keeps operations running smoothly each week.

Their hard work not only feeds the community but helps fund vital local projects, proving once again that when a community comes together, everyone benefits.

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I recently travelled to Canberra with the northwest Queensland delegation after notification from Glencore that they would be closing the Mount Isa copper smelter.

The closure of the smelter has significant flow-on effects for us who rely on agriculture.

About 17,000 jobs affected across various sectors will have a significant impact on our economy in North Queensland, of which we are a part. In addition, it puts our fertiliser supply under real pressure.

One of the by-products of that copper smelting is sulphuric acid and that’s key for making phosphate fertilisers.

In the Hinchinbrook region, some of our soils are phosphate-deficient.

The phosphate is mined at Phosphate Hill, about 200km from Mount Isa, and then blended with urea and other products in Townsville to make the fertilisers we all rely upon.

From there, it’s sent out to the cane fields, not just here in the Hinchinbrook region but across the east coast.

If that smelter shuts and we lose local acid supply, we’d have to start importing phosphate from overseas and then truck it all the way back to Phosphate Hill. Imagine the cost of that.

What’s that going to do to the price of our fertiliser?

These issues were raised with politicians. They listened, seemed to get it – now let’s see what they do about it.

On a brighter note, we just want to sincerely congratulate the Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club on their nomination for Club of the Year.

It just goes to show what a well-run group of dedicated volunteers can achieve. We wish them all the success going forward.