State Emergency Service (SES) volunteers have been warmly thanked for their continued efforts to support the community during the recent weather events.

Volunteers have attended to countless service calls since Christmas Day, with the majority of calls requiring roof repairs during intense rainfall.

“A big thank you to SES who came and tarped my roof today – one inch of rain fell while they worked – what an awesome group of people – they were all completely drenched at the end of the job,” expressed a local resident.

“These volunteers are often the change in many of our community members’ lives. Thank you for continuing to commit endless hours to helping others,” added another.

Crews of both local and visiting volunteers have been on the ground, staying locally at the Halifax Hotel and working through tasks over the past few weeks, with SES thanking the community for their patience during such an unpredictable and busy time.

“Weather conditions are different across our northern region right now - some communities are still receiving rain, others are watching forecasts closely, and some are waiting to see if more rain will arrive,” said an SES Spokesperson.

“SES crews are on the ground across the region, supporting communities and preparing to respond where needed. Teams are moving into place and working through priorities to make sure help continues to get to the right places at the right time.”

If you need assistance, phone 132 500 or visit the SES Assistance Queensland App. In an emergency, call 000.

Hiya Hinchinbrook Shire,

We were all bracing for a soggy weekend here in Hinchinbrook, expecting heavy rain and maybe even floods as the (now) ex-tropical cyclone Koji moved through. But, as it turned out, Mother Nature had other plans! Instead of the anticipated deluge, we were treated to a gorgeous, sunny day with clear blue skies.

While the storm — full of tree-tearing winds and torrential rain — took a detour down the coast to make a splash in the Burdekin, Whitsundays, and Mackay, giving my fellow journalists there plenty to write about, we here in Ingham and the surrounds enjoyed a peaceful, bright start to the weekend, with just the occasional shower here and there.

I had one of the most relaxing Sundays I can remember, spending most of it enjoying the warm summer weather and a good, thick book. Sometimes you just have to let go for a bit and listen to the cicadas, sip some tea, and take a walk along the beach.

A reminder that even when the weather has big plans, sometimes it skips over just enough to let us enjoy the sunshine.

Victoria

Fun Fact: I read over 300 pages of my 900 page book on Sunday! I was so engrossed in the story that by the time I finished, the sun was setting.

Shop & Win Campaign Strengthens The Shire

As 2025 drew to a close, the Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Tourism took a moment to reflect on a year full of achievements, events, and community collaboration. From supporting local businesses and promoting tourism initiatives to hosting networking events and community programs, the Chamber has been busy helping the region thrive.

2025 started like most, with Chamber using the first month of the year to undertake planning and strategy development for the year ahead.  The weather event that commenced on February 1st changed many of those plans, with Chamber stepping up immediately during and following the flooding, to support the community initially as a source of communication, local business information and liaison with support agencies, including GIVIT. Chamber then undertook an initial three month contract to host the Community Recovery Officer on behalf of HSC, including the establishment of the Hinchinbrook Community and Information Referral Centre.

The CRO was multifaceted and included local engagement, liaison with multiple government agencies and other assistance providers, including liaison with Insurance Council of Australia on behalf of the community. This short-term contract established the foundations for continued community recovery assistance, which was later hosted directly by council and was integral in supporting the business and broader community through the very challenging immediate post flood period.

As the community continued the recovery journey, Chamber turned its attention to delivering other projects.  After successfully receiving funding approval from Tourism Events Qld, Chamber supported the establishment of the inaugural “Hinchinbrook Festival of Events”, including managing the comprehensive marketing strategy, to promote the Hinchinbrook Shire regionally and to encourage locals and visitors to celebrate the communities’ resilience and resumption of cherished local events and welcome some new ones.

Over 10000 people participated in the six weeks of local events and activities, with two new events showcased for the first time in 2025. Chamber executive and event organisers were thrilled with this result.

The return of the Chamber initiated “Shop and Win campaign” again in 2025, delivered strong results for local retailers. With a record number of entry forms and receipts received, the campaign generated significant local engagement and saw more than $15,000 worth of prizes awarded, made possible through the generous support of Chamber and its sponsors. Feedback from local retailers, indicates community support to business through this campaign, has been exceptional and they have expressed their appreciation to Chamber for the campaign and the community for choosing to “support local”.

Shop & Win Major Sponsors:
Windlab Limited | Hinchinbrook Shire Council | Felix Reitano Real Estate and Furniture | Ingham Tyre Centre - Tyrepower Ingham

Minor Sponsors:
Mitre 10 Ingham Manufactures | SNG Machinery Sales | Barnes Sewing Centre | Herbert River Sub Branch RSL - Ingham | Sadleirs TerryWhite Chemmart Ingham | Homemakers Ingham | Harmony Designer Nails | Ingham Agencies | Ingham Wholelife Pharmacy & Healthfoods

Sponsors:
TLA Creations | Cover Me Sweet | MENZ | Boots & Blooms- by Neen | Skylah&Me Home Fragrance | I Love Boutique | Mandy's Beauty In The Bush

Shop & Win 2025 Winners
#1 Cassandra Lenzo - Winning ticket from Harmony Designer Nails
#2 Chris Clemment - Winning ticket from Ingham Manufacturers Mitre 10
#3 Vic Hislop - Winning ticket from Terry White Chemmart Ingham
#4 Dianne Gallon - Winning ticket from Herbert River RSL Club
#5 Vanda Raiteri - Winning ticket from Herbert River RSL Club
#6 Jo Evans - Winning ticket from Lisa Maree
#7 Melissa Groundwater - Winning ticket from Connecting the Dots Through Play
#8 Sandra Benedetto - Winning ticket from Connecting the Dots Through Play
#9 Sheree Marano - Winning ticket from Herbert River RSL Club
#10 Lenore Vincenzi - Winning ticket from Herbert River District Canegrowers Mitre 10
#11 Karen Franzman - Winning ticket from Terry White Chemmart Ingham
#12 Leanne Barnes - Winning ticket from Herbert River District Canegrowers Mitre 10
#13 Darleen Myran - Winning ticket from Terry White Chemmart Ingham
#14 Bree Johnson - Winning ticket from NQ Makers Collective
#15 Leigh Josey - Winning ticket from Terry White Chemmart Ingham
#16 Marion Roveglia - Winning ticket from Herbert River RSL Club
#17 Rhonda Sorbello - Winning ticket from Terry White Chemmart Ingham
#18 Grace Di Bella - Winning ticket from Herbert River RSL Club
#19 Clint O'Brien - Winning ticket from Sportspower Ingham
#20 Elizabeth Davis - Winning ticket from Terry White Chemmart Ingham

Queensland’s small and family business sector has reached a major milestone, surpassing more than half a million enterprises for the first time. According to official figures, the number of small businesses in Queensland increased from 495,000 to more than 508,000, highlighting the resilience, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit of Queensland small and family businesses.

The Government is delivering the Small and Family Business First Action Statement, designed to improve the business operating environment across the state, as these businesses generate an estimated $132 billion for the Queensland economy and employ more than 1.045 million Queenslanders.

Minister for Small and Family Business Steve Minnikin said small and family businesses play a critical role in driving economic growth, creating jobs, and fostering vibrant local communities.

“Small and family businesses are vital to our economy and our local communities, and surpassing half a million is a testament to the determination and ingenuity of our small and family business owners,” Minister Minnikin said.

Saying that they're committed to continuing to put small and family businesses first and ensuring they have the resources and environment they need to thrive.

“Every time you shop locally, you’re investing in Queensland’s future. Let’s celebrate this achievement by continuing to champion our small businesses,”  Minister Minnikin said.

Key programs under the Action Statement currently open for applications include the Business Growth Fund, Secure Communities Partnership Program, and Small Business Apprenticeship Pilot Program. For more information on small business support, visit business.qld.gov.au.

Celebrate Australia Day the Hinchinbrook way this year, with a splash at the Hinchinbrook Aquatic Centre!

On Monday, the 26th of January, the much-loved Australia Day Community Pool Party will return, offering a relaxed and inclusive way for locals and visitors to come together and enjoy the day. Running from 11:30am to 4pm, this FREE event is designed to suit all ages and promises an afternoon full of colour, activity and Australia Day spirit.

The pool party will feature a wide range of family-friendly entertainment, including a free sausage sizzle, a DJ providing upbeat tunes throughout the day, and a bubble machine adding to the festive atmosphere. Children can enjoy craft activities, outdoor games, pool toys, disco prizes, face painting and temporary tattoos, ensuring there is plenty to keep everyone entertained both in and out of the water.

Dive into this Aussie Day out as the event provides an opportunity for everyone to connect, relax and celebrate Australia Day in a welcoming and accessible setting. Whether you are a long-time local or visiting the region during the school holidays, the pool party offers a chance to cool off, catch up with friends and meet new faces.

Families are encouraged to bring their swimmers, sun protection and a sense of celebration, and to make a day of it at the Hinchinbrook Aquatic Centre, located at 31 McIlwraith Street, Ingham. With free entry and activities for all ages, this Australia Day event is set to be a highlight on the local calendar and a reminder of the strong community spirit that defines the Hinchinbrook region and Australia.

The Hinchinbrook Local Disaster Management Group advises the community that rainfall levels are being monitored closely.

With the current weather activity and the potential development of a tropical low in the Coral Sea, this is a timely reminder of the importance of preparedness.

Flooding and cyclonic systems are often linked, and residents are encouraged to review their personal preparedness for both risks.

Residents should consider the following:
Know your risk, prepare a plan and pack an emergency kit.
Ensure adequate food and water supplies for at least seven days.
Keep medications up to date and accessible.
Prepare for potential power disruptions, including sufficient generator fuel if applicable, charging phones and portable devices.
Secure loose items around properties and remove potential flying hazards.
Cut trees away from roofs and clean gutters.
Be aware of storm surge risks, particularly in coastal areas.
Have contingency plans in place for household isolation if required.

Previous events, including those in February last year, highlighted the challenges that can arise when power and communications are disrupted.

While similar conditions are not expected, preparedness remains the most effective response. Since then, infrastructure resilience has been strengthened, and community awareness has improved.

Many new residents have joined the district in recent years. Understanding local seasonal risks and acting early helps reduce potential impacts. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and take practical steps now.

Reliable information and resources are available through the Disaster Dashboard at https://disaster.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au and Get Ready https://getready.qld.gov.au websites.

The Hinchinbrook Shire Council advises the following key dates and information regarding 2025-2026 second half yearly rates notices run:

Rates Notices Issued: Wednesday 11 February 2026. Keep an eye on your mailbox or inbox from this date.

Haven’t Received Your Notice? If you have not received your rates notice by Wednesday 25 February 2026, please contact Council’s Rates Team. To receive future notices by email, visit Electronic Rate Notices to download a form to register your email or contact Council directly.

Full Payment Due: Tuesday 31 March 2026. If payment is received in full by this date, you will automatically be entered into the $2,000 Rates Incentive Scheme draw.**

Overdue Rates: From Wednesday 1 April 2026, any unpaid rates will accrue interest at 12.12% per annum (compounded daily).

Incentive Scheme Draw: Pay your rates in full by the due date and you’ll be automatically entered to win $2,000 in vouchers to spend at local Hinchinbrook businesses. Winners are randomly drawn at a public Council meeting on Tuesday 28 April 2026, and vouchers must be used within the Hinchinbrook Shire.

To view a full breakdown of rates categories please view the Rates and Charges 2025-2026 document on Council’s website at https://www.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au/our-council/rates-and-charges/

If a resident is experiencing financial hardship, Council encourages them to get in touch to discuss available support options. Visit https://www.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au/our-council/rates-and-charges/make-a-payment/ for more information. To view a full breakdown of rates categories please view document on Council’s website at https://www.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au/our-council/rates-and-charges/

Ways to pay: Rates can be paid to Hinchinbrook Shire Council through several convenient methods, including online via BPoint, in person at the Council office or any Australia Post outlet, by phone using Visa or MasterCard, through BPAY or POSTbillpay, by mail with a cheque or money order, or by setting up a direct debit for regular payments.

Visit in person at 25 Lannercost Street, Ingham, email council@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au or call Council’s Revenue Team on (07) 4776 4600.

The Queensland Government is delivering a fresh start for Queensland by expanding the Boost to Buy home ownership scheme, doubling funding and available places to provide a place to call home for more Queenslanders.

Applications opened in December 2025,  for the initial 500 places, with up to 2,000 first-home buyers to benefit over the next three years.

Half of the places will be available for those living in regional parts of the State.

The Queensland Government is driving down cost of living pressures and delivering a place to call home for more Queenslanders, easing the State’s housing challenges while supporting a stronger economy.

The Boost to Buy scheme will provide a government equity contribution of up to 30% for new homes and 25% for existing homes. To be eligible, home buyers need to have saved a minimum 2% deposit for the purchase price of a property up to $1 million.

The scheme comes on top of existing measures from the Queensland Government to deliver more Queenslanders a place to call home, including:

• The extension of the $30,000 First Homeowner Grant, which has already helped 1,750 people this financial year;
• The abolition of stamp duty for first home buyers on new properties, benefiting 1,500 Queenslanders since May;
• Lifted restrictions allowing new homeowners to rent out a room from day one without losing grants or concessions.

Unity Bank has been accepted as an approved lender for up to 500 initial places for Boost to Buy. Aspiring first home buyers can apply directly to Unity Bank.

Eligibility is open to single purchasers with an income of up to $150,000 per annum and households with two adults or singles with dependants earning up to $225,000 per annum.

Treasurer and Minister for Home Ownership David Janetzki said the Boost to Buy scheme was making home ownership a reality for Queenslanders who would not otherwise be able to buy a home.

“Opening applications for the scheme is a shot of optimism for Queenslanders wanting to purchase their first home, with 50% of places reserved for those wanting to live outside of South East Queensland.

“We're delivering what we promised - more homeownership opportunities across Queensland.”

Unity Bank CEO Danny Pavisic said Unity was excited to be appointed as an approved lender for the first roll-out of placements of the Boost to Buy scheme.

“Boost to Buy will support working Queenslanders seeking the security of home ownership,” Mr Pavisic said.

“Providing a pathway for Queenslanders who have been struggling to enter the housing market is perfectly aligned with Unity Bank’s principle of supporting everyday Australians.”

More details can be found at: https://www.treasury.qld.gov.au/policies-and-programs/home-ownership/boost-to-buy/

Residents are advised that Martin Street is no longer a sand or sandbag collection point. Sand and sandbags must only be collected from the locations listed below.

Current Sand And Sandbagging Locations:
• Ingham – Council’s Lannercost Street car park
• Trebonne – Trebonne State School car park, Kehls Road
• Cordelia – Carr’s Farm
• Halifax – Lancini’s Farm Shed, Scott Street
• Lucinda – Lions Park, Patterson Parade (near the Coastguard)
• Taylors Beach – Progress Park
• Forrest Beach – Near the water tower and skate park

Residents collecting sandbags are encouraged to check on neighbours, family members, or friends who may need assistance. Please remember to bring your own shovels when collecting sand, and for further information or enquiries, contact (07) 4776 4600.

The Hinchinbrook Local Disaster Management Group reminds the community that sand and sandbags provided at Hinchinbrook Shire Council’s designated locations are free and available for public use during emergency preparedness.

Council is extremely disappointed to have received reports of individuals taking sandbags from the public car park behind Council’s Lannercost Street office. This behaviour is unacceptable and undermines community safety and shared preparedness efforts.

There is no justification for taking sandbags from others. Adequate supplies are available at Council’s designated sand and sandbagging locations for all residents who require them.

Anyone who witnesses theft or suspicious behaviour is urged to report it immediately to Queensland Police on 131 444.

Council sincerely thanks the many residents who are doing the right thing, respecting shared resources, and supporting one another during this time.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Well, it’s the start of another year, and what a start it’s been. Rain, rain and more rain. Thankfully, we haven’t had any major flooding yet, and hopefully we won’t, but all we can do is be prepared and let Mother Nature do her thing.

Hopefully everyone is stocked up on extra food, fuel and medications – just in case. One thing that is sometimes forgotten is to have extra food for your animals, including dry matter (hay) for horses and cattle.

Too much green grass can cause stock to chase dry fodder, making them more likely to eat poisonous woody weeds like lantana. Three day sickness in cattle is also prevalent in this rainy weather, so let’s hope we get some sunshine soon!

The wet weather makes it difficult for our staff to keep our public spaces clean and mowed. We are trying to get as much done as possible when the sun does shine, so please be patient and know that our staff are doing their very best to keep our town looking beautiful. I’d also like to mention a special thank you to all the people around town who go that extra bit when they mow their yards; every little bit helps, and our town looks much better because of it. Staff are still chasing the flying foxes out of town, rain, hail or shine.

Our Feral Pig program has recently received funding to reduce feral pig numbers across 10,000 ha of the coastal edge from Forrest Beach to Crystal Creek. This is one of several projects that will be funded through Terrain’s Herbert Integrated Project (HIP). This project is funded by the Queensland Government and aims to improve water quality outcomes.

Landholders having issues with feral pigs can contact Council for assistance on (07) 4776 4600.

Hi Readers,

I hope you all enjoyed a wonderful Christmas spent with family and friends. As we move into the New Year, it’s also a timely reminder that this is the season when being prepared really matters.

Living in our shire, we know how quickly weather conditions can change. Taking a little time now to prepare can make a big difference for you and your family if an emergency occurs. Preparation doesn’t have to be overwhelming small, practical steps can provide peace of mind and help keep everyone safe.

A good place to start is with water and food. Aim to have enough supplies for at least seven to 10 days, including around 10 litres of drinking water per person, along with non-perishable food items that don’t require refrigeration.

For families with young children, check that baby food and formula are within expiry dates, and ensure you have enough nappies, wipes and bottles to last several days. Our pets are part of the family too, so remember to put aside dry food, water and feeding bowls for them.

Health and hygiene supplies are equally important. A basic first aid kit, face masks, work gloves and rubbish bags are useful to have on hand. Make sure you have essential medications, including at least a week’s supply of prescription and over-the-counter medicines. Toiletries such as toilet paper, soap, toothpaste, shampoo, sunscreen, insect repellent, tissues and hand sanitiser should also be included.

Finally, take time to gather your important documents. Keeping paper copies or scanned versions saved to a USB — such as driver’s licences, insurance policies, passports and legal documents — can save a great deal of stress when you need them most.

Preparing now helps protect what matters most.

As we welcome the year ahead, I wish everyone a very Happy and safe New Year for 2026. Please take care, stay prepared and continue to look out for one another.

So after 16 days straight, we can all take a breath and relax.

Up to 1240mm fell in places within our district from Boxing Day 2025 to 3 January 2026, and then dealing with Tropical Cyclone Koji for a week. Fortunately, Tropical Cyclone Koji decided to leave us alone, which was a tremendous relief, but our thoughts and prayers are with the impacted residents to the south.

It has been a long and protracted exercise to this point, and the fact is that the wet season has only just started. So, we are definitely not out of the woods for now by a long shot.

We still have at least two months of potentials to consider.

I want to thank you all for your vigilance and efforts in remaining aware and prepared. You heeded the warnings, prepared, and went about your business in the knowledge that you could deal with the events unfolding, a confidence that you achieve when prepared.

Preparedness is your best form of protection, and having said that, I really want to thank all the emergency groups and agencies who have been resident in our district since essentially 29 December 2025, when the first threat of flooding arose.

Additional police, ambulance, swift water, and volunteer State Emergency personnel were pre-deployed into our district in readiness for the flooding expected from the earlier rain event, and given the behaviour of the river, quickly followed by the cyclone threat, the opportunity to stand down did not materialise until the 11th of January, 2026.

Most personnel came from afar, so were away from their homes and families for extraordinary periods, watching what this river of ours was going to do.

We sincerely thank you for your assistance and efforts.

Thank you also to all the Hinchinbrook Shire Council staff who returned to work early from their planned annual leave to undertake the necessary work to keep our communities safe. Your assistance was critical.

As I said previously, the wet season has only just begun. If anything, Tropical Cyclone Koji proved a very valuable training exercise for us all in preparedness, and we will continue to monitor our wet season developments as our new year progresses.

The Forgotten Fruit - Soursop and Starfruit Secrets

Peek into Hinchinbrook’s backyard gardens and you’ll find surprises beyond the supermarket shelf, such as starfruit, black sapote and soursop among them. These “forgotten fruits” thrive quietly in the warm, humid air, tended by growers who love the unusual.

Starfruit adds sparkle to soda water, black sapote masquerades as chocolate mousse, and soursop makes a tangy tropical ice cream. You’ll find them traded at weekend markets or tucked into farmgate stalls. They’re the secret side of Hinchinbrook — exotic, humble and full of heart.

Hinchinbrook Shire Council advises residents to report any fallen trees, road damage, or other hazards affecting public areas as soon as possible.

Council was made aware of the fallen tree at the Cenotaph in the Ingham Memorial Gardens, and it was actioned for removal on the 13th of January.

The tree has not caused any damage to surrounding infrastructure. Crews are prioritising tasks that affect public safety, so they may not be able to remove the fallen tree until Monday.

One way to help is to report issues directly to Council by calling (07) 4776 4600.

For the latest updates, warnings, and official disaster-related advice, please follow the Hinchinbrook Information Disaster Facebook page.

Visit the Hinchinbrook Disaster Dashboard at https://disaster.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au for road closures and weather updates.

Cultivating The Future

Ingham State High School is taking hands-on learning to a whole new level with its groundbreaking sugar cane tissue culture and school engagement program. Building on the success of a pilot initiative, the school applied for funding through the CQU and Agribusiness Gateway to Industry Partnership – this has allowed the school to extend this program in 2026 with the links to science and agriculture innovation. The program introduces students to the science, sustainability, and community collaboration at the beating heart of the local sugar industry.

When asked ‘What is the ultimate goal for this program?’ Jason Brown, one of the Certificate II in Rural Operations teachers at Ingham State High School, who helped create and develop this program, stated unequivocally, “It’s for the students, for the schools, and for the local industry.”

But the impact goes far beyond those three pillars.

Students from Years 11 and 12, enrolled in Science, Biology, and Rural Operations, work together to develop tissue culture samples of various sugar cane varieties. These disease-free seedlings are then distributed to local primary schools, where young learners establish and maintain their own growing areas. Through this process, students from different perspectives gain practical skills in plant propagation, observation, and sustainability.

The program runs in phases, with 2026 focused on development and facility setup. High school students collaborate with industry partners — including Canegrowers Herbert River, Herbert Cane Productivity Services Ltd, and Sugar Research Australia —  to establish a small-scale tissue culture and propagation unit. This ensures the seedlings are of high quality and that students are learning practices aligned with real-world industry standards. Educational resources and workshops are developed to align with the school science curriculum, providing a structured, engaging learning experience.

Ingham State High Shool's Head of Department Pathways and Partnerships, Mrs. Kylee Rosenberger said, “These partnerships with industry allow students to experience first-hand how science and innovation drive modern agriculture.”

Once seedlings are ready, the second phase sees students visiting primary schools to conduct workshops and assist in establishing growing areas. This hands-on involvement encourages curiosity, instils agricultural knowledge, and inspires younger students to consider pursuing future careers in science, agriculture, and biotechnology. By participating in these activities, primary students are now motivated to enter their grown cane into the local agricultural show for the first time, marking a milestone for both schools and the wider community.

In 2027, the program enters its final phase, with ongoing support and monitoring of the crops as they grow toward harvest. The produce is prepared and entered into the local show, celebrating student achievement while reinforcing connections between schools, families, and the regional cane industry. Beyond immediate outcomes, the program is designed to create pathways for students into higher education, industry apprenticeships, and even leadership roles within agriculture.

Canegrowers Herbert River manager, Frank Scardamaglia, said "Canegrowers are proud to partner with Ingham State High School on this innovative and forward-thinking program. Initiatives like this deliver real benefits to the community and to our sugar industry, but most importantly they create clear and meaningful pathways for young people into agriculture.

"By actively involving both secondary and primary school students, including our work with eight local primary schools growing cane as part of the program, we are helping students feel connected to the industry from an early age. This early engagement builds understanding, pride, and aspiration, while supporting the development of a skilled future workforce and giving local students every opportunity to build their careers and futures right here in the Herbert River district.”

For senior students, the program offers even greater benefits. They can earn Certificates in Agriculture while participating, giving them a head start on qualifications essential to the industry. Facility tours and mentorship from industry specialists further enrich learning, bridging a gap in local higher education opportunities. In a region where students often need to relocate for agricultural studies, this initiative provides a vital pathway to develop local talent, strengthen the workforce, and ensure continuity between farming generations.

Dimitty Harragon, a year 12 student in the Rural Opperations course and part of a generational cane-farming family, said that she enjoyed the program and how it was envolving the younger generations in what is the districts lifeblood.

"I'm like to get even more schools involved," she said, "getting all the schools involved and going out and helping the younger kids, teaching them how to grow it and watch it grow from the plant to the sticks of cane."

She contined that helping the junior schools understand the growing statges of cane was a definite highlight of the program, and that with the Certificate II under her belt, she hopes continue in the industry, to one day take the helm of her family's cane farm.

The program’s ripple effect is already evident. Students are gaining practical skills, schools are building new connections, and the local industry is nurturing a pipeline of future farmers, scientists, agronomists, and agricultural leaders. Initiatives like these not only educate but also empower young people to explore careers they might never have considered, all while contributing to the sustainability and growth of the region’s most signature industry.

With ambitions to expand into regional science competitions, Ingham State High School is doing the groundwork, cultivating more than sugar cane, but providing the opportunity for a sweeter future.