As sweet as her namesake, Nutmeg is a beautiful tortoiseshell girl who found herself in a spot of bother at the local pound. Thankfully, she’s been given a second chance at the happy future she deserves.

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This stunning and lovely lady has now completed all of her veterinary work and is ready to start the next chapter of her lives with a family to call her own. Better yet, she’s looking for her last home, where she can settle in and be cherished forever.

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Nutmeg is a friendly, affectionate cat who enjoy human company and is happy in the company of other cats. She has not yet been tested with dogs, so any introductions would need to be done carefully and gradually. Nutmeg is an indoors only cat.

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Included in adoption fee of $225 DESEXED when of appropriate age, MICRO-CHIPPED, up to date VACCINATIONS, FLEA/TICK/INTESTINAL WORM treated. Enquire today at angelpawsinc.com.au/pets-for-adoption/cats/

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Sex: Female

Breed: Domestic Short Hair

Colour: Tortoiseshell

DOB: 01/03/2026

Cat Friendly: Yes

Dog Friendly: Unsure

Kid Friendly: Yes

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AgTech and Environment is a category for the 2026 Innovate with nbn Grants Program. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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Regional businesses are being encouraged to put their ideas forward, with applications now open for the 2026 Innovate with nbn Grants Program.

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Now in its seventh year, the program delivered in partnership with the Regional Australia Institute, has $125,000 in grant funding available across several categories, including a new category recognising businesses using innovation to improve productivity.

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If your business fall into any of these categories you could be eligable; AgTech and Environment, Arts, Culture & Tourism, Education, First Nations Business, Health and Wellbeing, Innovation for Productivity, and Women in Regional Business.

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Each category winner will receive $15,000, while one overall winner will be named the 2026 Innovate with nbn Champion and receive an additional $20,000.

The program is open to regional businesses with ideas and initiatives demonstrating how technology and innovation can help overcome challenges, improve the way they operate or deliver benefits to their communities.

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Organisers are also encouraging previous applicants who were unsuccessful to have another go. Applications close at midnight on Monday, October 12th, 2026.

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With regional businesses continuing to find new ways to innovate, adapt and grow, the program provides an opportunity to showcase local ideas and demonstrate the contribution regional businesses are making across Australia.

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The full program details and submit an application at www.nbnco.com.au/campaigns/innovate-with-nbn-grants-program

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Contributed with thanks by nbn & Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce Industry & Tourism

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3 RAR Soldiers and Legatee Judy Alce Photo Credit: Victoria Velton

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By Victoria Velton

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The sounds of bagpipes and a tidy display of Legacy merchandise brought attention to the Legacy Appeal outside the Woolworths complex in Ingham this week, as soldiers from 3RAR set up a booth to raise funds for veterans’ families.

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The local stall was managed by Legatee Judith (Judy) Alce, with soldiers from 3RAR travelling to Ingham on Monday 31st of September, Wednesday 2nd, and Friday 4th of August, to lend their support.

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Alongside filling the air with poignant notes from the pipes, the soldiers helped sell Legacy merchandise including badges, bears and the newest addition to the collection, the Light Horse Bear, inspired by Australia’s legendary Light Horse Regiments.

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The annual Legacy Appeal has been running nationally since 1942 and raises vital funds to support the partners and children of veterans who have given their life or health through military service.

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Northern Queensland Legacy is a volunteer-based, self-funded organisation that relies on the generosity of local communities across North Queensland. This year’s appeal is particularly significant, with Northern Queensland Legacy celebrating 80 years of service to the region and holding its largest appeal to date across Townsville, Charters Towers, the Burdekin, Bowen and Ingham.

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Northern Queensland Legacy CEO Nicole Hayes said the organisation was incredibly proud to have the support of every local Australian Defence Force unit.

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“The Legacy Appeal is a wonderful reminder of the enduring partnership between Legacy, the Australian Defence Force and the community,” Ms Hayes said.

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“We are honoured that every local ADF unit is supporting this year’s appeal. Their presence reflects the shared commitment to ensuring the families of those who have served our nation are never forgotten.”

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Importantly, all funds raised through the Ingham appeal stay local, helping Legacy continue programs supporting families in the community.

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Legacy has also broadened its eligibility criteria, removing the requirement for a veteran to have completed Operational Service. Legacy can now support families of all veterans who have given their life or health through military service, allowing the organisation to care for more families.

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The organisation is also encouraging people from all backgrounds to consider volunteering. No military service is required to become a Legacy volunteer and support families in the local community.

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Anyone interested in becoming a beneficiary, volunteer or supporter can contact Northern Queensland Legacy on 4772 7533 or admin@nqlegacy.com.au.

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Hinchinbrook’s sporting talent was celebrated in style last week as the Ingham Lions Club hosted its 2026 Sports Star of the Year Awards.  

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From rising juniors and accomplished seniors to masters competitors, teams and the volunteers behind them, the evening recognised the breadth of achievement across the district.  

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Australian sprinter Jake Doran joined the judging panel and praised the opportunities available to regional athletes, while major awards went to Joshua Gurnick-Stagnitta, Lucas Masters, Filipe Tabu and the Northern Regions Open Boys Squash Team. The night also celebrated the dedication of local volunteers who continue to keep Hinchinbrook sport thriving.

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Read more here: https://www.hinchinbrooklife.com/article/ingham-lions-club-sportstar-of-the-year-awards-2026

Aurora Zorzetto and Pauline Morgan outside the newly opened shop. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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A new combined business space has opened on Lannercost Street, bringing life to one of Ingham’s previously vacant shopfronts.

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Mind Your Admin owner Pauline Morgan has partnered with Aurora Zorzetto to combine Pauline’s personal administration service with Aurora’s shop Rajahe’s Creations.

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"This something I've been wanting to do for the last 18 months," said Pauline.

Rajahe’s Creations features natural displays and handmade creations incorporating materials including crystals, cottons and linens.

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The pair also wanted to bring some life back to the town.

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“To do something for the town, for the people," she said.

“Because we’ve got no shops around the place. Everything’s empty.”

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"We had a lovely group of people, our friends, that came down this morning and we cut the ribbon."

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The new space officially opened on August 18th with Pauline saying the motivation behind the venture was ultimately about contributing to the local community.

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Denis recently recovered her ability to walk after a six week stroke-induced coma. Photo credit: Sherie Hensler-Adams

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In an inspiring story of resilience from Tully Nursing Home, resident Denis Singh has recovered her ability to walk after suffering a stroke, in a “one-in-a-thousand” recovery.

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Following her stroke, Denis spent six weeks in a coma. When she finally woke, she found she had lost her mobility.

For someone who loved catching up with friends for girls’ outings and enjoying an active social life, suddenly being unable to do the things she loved was incredibly difficult- but Denis was determined to regain her independence.

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With the encouragement, guidance and support of David, the full-time physiotherapist at Tully Nursing Home, Denis began working hard to rebuild her strength and mobility.

The regular physiotherapy sessions were challenging, but Denis refused to give up.

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Fourteen months later, she had something very special to celebrate — she was walking again.

Denis said doctors had told her there was only a one-in-a-thousand chance that she would walk again. Her remarkable determination, combined with the ongoing support and encouragement from David, has helped her defy those odds.

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Denis is still working on building strength in her lower back, but she is taking her recovery one step at a time.

These days, she continues her exercises and rehabilitation with David — sometimes even working out to the classic YMCA.

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Denis’s story is a wonderful reminder that recovery takes time, and that determination, support and a positive attitude can make an incredible difference.

“Well done, Denis — and keep walking!” said Life Publishing Sales Manager Sherie Hensler-Adams after uncovering Denis’s story. 

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“With your great-grandchildren cheering you on, you certainly have the best cheer squad around.”  

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“I stand with Australian banana farmers like Steve Lizzio” said Senator Susan Macdonald. Photo source: Senator Susan Macdonald

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Senator Susan McDonald has joined North Queensland banana growers in opposing the potential importation of fresh bananas from the Philippines, declaring: “No banana imports, Albo!”

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The comments come as the Federal Government assesses the Philippines’ request to consider alternative biosecurity measures for importing fresh Cavendish bananas into Australia.

The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) completed a technical visit to the Philippines in March and commenced a regulated Biosecurity Import Risk Analysis (BIRA) in June. A draft report is expected to be released for public consultation in the first half of 2027, although DAFF says the timing is indicative and subject to change.

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During the March visit, DAFF officials inspected five banana farms operated by four companies across Davao del Norte, Bukidnon and Davao de Oro.

According to DAFF’s report, the farms ranged from 26 to 546 hectares and all were exporting Cavendish bananas. Moko, black Sigatoka, banana freckle and Panama disease Tropical Race 4 (TR4) were observed to be present at the farms visited.

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Moko and black Sigatoka are significant biosecurity concerns for Australia, while banana freckle and Panama TR4 are already present in Australia and subject to biosecurity management measures.

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For Far North Queensland growers, the findings have heightened concerns about the potential biosecurity consequences of allowing Philippine bananas into the Australian market.

Banana Imports Committee chair and Far North Queensland grower Paul Inderbitzin said the report did not indicate that Australia’s existing biosecurity standards should change.

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“There is nothing in this report that gives any indication that our current biosecurity standards should change, or that the Philippines could meet our appropriate level of protection,” Mr Inderbitzin said.

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“The diseases present at every one of the farms they visited, particularly Moko and black Sigatoka, could virtually wipe-out the Australian industry.”

The Australian banana industry produced 368,701 tonnes of bananas worth $719.4 million in 2024–25, with Queensland accounting for about 94 per cent of national production.

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“Our argument, at its core, is pretty simple,” Mr Inderbitzin said.

“Right now every banana you buy is grown by an Australian farmer.

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“We don’t need banana imports.”

The regulated BIRA process will continue, with DAFF stating that alternative measures would only be considered acceptable if they effectively manage biosecurity risks to Australia’s appropriate level of protection.

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Australia currently does not permit the importation of fresh bananas from any market.

A draft report is expected in the first half of 2027.

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Max Mcdonald Running - Image Supplied  

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By Sian Bantock

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Tully resident Max McDonald took on one of the world’s most prestigious trail running events over the weekend, a competition in the renowned Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (UTMB) hosted in Europe over the weekend.  

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The UTMB features several race distances including the iconic 174km UTMB, the challenging CCC estimated at just over 100KM, and the OCC - the shortest of the three at 50KM.  

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Max was accepted into the CCC race, a challenging course with rugged mountain terrain, relentless climbs that offer breathtaking vistas. Covering more than 100 kilometers with approximately 6,200 metre elevation gain, the route passes through Mont Blanc Massive of Italy, Switzerland and France.

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Max started his race in Courmayeur, Italy after the initial 3KM the weather changed from sunny and dry to wild, wet and windy.  

He battled through the weather and travelled into Champex-Lac, Switzerland but was hit with unexpected news.

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“An extra 7KM and 500 metre elevation gain was added due to the mudslides in the mountains,” Max said.

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“Finishing was the aim after 80KM in, knowing how difficult it was going to be now at the end. I stopped more than I should have but crossing the finish line was more important than quitting.”

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At just 27, Max demonstrated exceptional perseverance, resilience and mental fortitude, crossing the prestigious trail running event in Chamonix, France in an impressive 17 hours 39 minutes and 02 seconds.  

I always appreciate hearing directly from our community about the issues that matter most to you.

This month, I’m responding to questions from residents on a range of important topics, from cassowary safety on our roads to rates, youth activities and community safety in Innisfail.  

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Thank you to everyone who sent in a question; your input is invaluable and helps keep Council connected to the people we serve.  

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Question from Ally: Mayor, can we please do better at informing drivers on the roads to slow down for Cassowaries - so we can reduce big bird fatality & injury? Reduce speeds, more signage and street calming in known Cassowary corridors.

Thanks, Ally. Yes, protecting cassowaries on our roads is very important, and is something Council is actively involved in.  

Council is a long-term member of the Cassowary Recovery Team, coordinated by the Wet Tropics Management Authority under the federally endorsed Cassowary Recovery Plan.  

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Locally, we work with Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service and Department of Transport and Main Roads on implementing speed limits, erecting warning signage, recent crossing alerts and other road safety measures in known cassowary corridors.  

We know there is always more to do, and Council will keep working with our partners to improve awareness and protect these iconic birds.  

There is an app called Q Wildlife, where you can record sightings and incidents, or you can call the wildlife hotline on 1300 130 372. I urge all drivers to please slow down and take extra care in signed cassowary zones.  

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Question from Jan: when are the rates actually decreasing to an affordable level, and why is it going up?

Thanks, Jan. We understand that any increase in rates is difficult, especially with cost-of-living pressures continuing to affect households across the Cassowary Coast.  

Rates are increasing because Council’s costs to deliver essential services such as roads, drainage, water, waste, public spaces and community facilities continue to rise. Higher fuel prices, ageing infrastructure, severe weather impacts and increased waste costs are all placing pressure on Council’s budget.  

Council has worked hard to keep this year’s increase as low as possible.  

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We’ve limited increases to water and waste charges to cost recovery only, and we’ve retained the on-time payment discount to help ease the burden for ratepayers who can pay by the due date.  

If anyone is experiencing hardship or having difficulty paying their rates, we strongly encourage them to contact Council’s Customer Services team as early as possible to discuss available payment arrangements.  

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Question from anonymous community member: When are you going to implement more events and activities in the region for more adolescents and young adults?

Good question, Council hold various events aimed at our younger community members, such as the annual Tilapia competition, which is coming up at the start of October!  

However, due to limited resources and funding, we are unable to deliver all events directly. Instead, we encourage local community groups, schools, and P&Cs to take the lead in organising their own events and to apply for available grant funding that supports activities for young people in our community.  

Please visit Council’s website cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au/grants to learn more.  

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Our young people are the future of the Cassowary Coast, and their voices matter. The Youth Advisory Committee is a fantastic opportunity for them to share their ideas and help shape a region they’re proud to call home.  

I encourage all eligible young people to apply and be part of this exciting initiative. Check out Council's website and search Youth Advisory Committee.  

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Question from John: When will Council work with police to address public drunkenness and antisocial behaviour in Innisfail? Council officers could also consider stronger enforcement in the CBD for smoking within 10 metres of shop entrances and forlittering. What steps can Council take, in partnership with relevant agencies, to improve public amenity and community safety in these areas?

Thanks, John. Council does work with Queensland Police Service on community safety issues in Innisfail, but it’s important to be clear that public drunkenness and antisocial behaviour are primarily matters for police enforcement. Smoking rules and regulations are enforced by Queensland Health authorities, not council.  

Littering is a Council matter, but enforcement usually requires an officer to witness the offence, unless it involves littering from a vehicle.  

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We can all help by identifying problem areas, sharing information and supporting a coordinated local response to keep the Innisfail CBD safe, clean and welcoming.  

People can report issues to us directly via the ‘report an issue’ link on our website  

Thanks again to Cassowary Coast community members who sent in questions. It’s really important that we keep these conversations going, stay transparent, and make sure our community is informed about the issues that matter. So please keep sending your questions through; I look forward to answering more of them next time.

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By Victoria Velton

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The latest Reef Report Card shows an overall improvement in water quality across the region, but Riparian Extent, Seagrass Condition and Marine Water Quality are showing declines. To gain better understanding of what this means we reached out to experts at  Terrain Natural Resource Management (Terrain NRM), a regional natural resource management organisation working across the Wet Tropics to protect and improve the health of the region’s environment.

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Q: What is driving those declines, and how concerned should we be about the trend?

Terrain NRM: Riparian extent is mainly driven by land clearing for both agricultural and urban development.

Seagrass and marine water quality declines are mostly driven by extreme weather events, particularly floods and cyclones. Major floods cause huge amounts of sediment to be washed into coastal waters, which reduces water clarity and the amount of light reaching seagrass.

While heavy rainfall, storms and flood are a natural part of the ecology of the Wet Tropics, climate change is causing more frequent and intense extreme weather events so yes, we should be concerned because it impacts communities as well as the environment.

Healthy riparian vegetation helps reduce erosion and filter runoff but there’s only so much it can do when a really big flood comes through. That’s why there’s an increasing focus on resilience in all the projects because healthy catchments are better placed to withstand extreme events and recover afterwards.

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Q: How should the community interpret the difference between improving water quality results and these declining ecological indicators? Does improving water quality necessarily translate into improvements in the health of these ecosystems?

Terrain NRM: The two are closely connected but it’s more the other way around - healthy ecosystems create better water quality. Also, they don’t necessarily move at the same pace so we wouldn’t expect to see immediate direct results.

The improvements in water quality reported in the Reef Report Card reflect changes in land management practices across industries including sugarcane, grazing, horticulture, grains and bananas. Those changes are helping reduce the amount of sediment, nutrients and pesticides leaving our catchments.

But ecosystems like riparian vegetation, wetlands and seagrass are responding to a much bigger range of influences, including extreme weather. Ecological recovery can take a long time, particularly after a major flood or cyclone.

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Q: Riparian vegetation plays an important role in stabilising streambanks and filtering sediment and nutrients before they reach waterways. What are the biggest pressures currently affecting riparian extent in the Wet Tropics, and what work is being done to reverse that decline?

Terrain NRM: The biggest pressure identified in the latest reporting is clearing for agricultural and urban development. The reporting excludes vegetation losses from natural events such as cyclones and floods.

Also, when we’re talking about riparian health, it’s not just about trees. Ground cover is really important too. It helps hold soil together and reduce erosion, particularly in areas where you don’t have a lot of woody vegetation.

Reef water quality programs started in around 2008-2009. There’s a lot of investment and work since then. They focused heavily on supporting farmers to change practices but there’s also been investment in revegetation and rehabilitation projects, streambank rehabilitation, wetlands restoration etc.

Most of the ‘easy’ stuff has been done so now we’re getting to the more complex stuff where whole communities need to take charge of catchment stewardship. The current Herbert Integrated Project is an example of this where the whole community is involved.

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Q: What are the main factors behind the decline in seagrass condition and marine water quality, particularly in a region where there has been reported positive progress in reducing sediment, nutrient and pesticide runoff?

Terrain NRM: Major floods – they deliver an enormous amount of sediment and freshwater into coastal waters. Strong winds and swell can also stir up sediment that’s already sitting on the seafloor, and nutrients can be recycled from marine sediments.

Even when we’re doing the right things on the land, a major weather event can temporarily overwhelm those gains.

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Q: Looking ahead, what needs to happen in the Wet Tropics to ensure improvements in catchment water quality translate into better outcomes for the rivers, seagrass meadows and marine environment, and are current programs sufficiently resourced to achieve that?

Terrain NRM: New catchment water quality plans have recently been developed so the next step is to put them into action.

We need to keep doing the things we know work — improving farm practices, restoring wetlands and rehabilitating streambanks, for example — but we also need to keep innovating and also look beyond agriculture.

In urban areas we need to look at things like managing erosion from dirt roads, better stormwater management, more green space and water-sensitive urban design.

There’s been a lot of investment but the ongoing challenge is more to do with getting longer-term funding commitments. Environmental recovery doesn’t happen neatly within a three- or four-year political cycle — it can take decades.

Projects tend to be a bit stop-start which makes it hard to maintain momentum. Every time a program ends, there’s a gap before the new one starts and during that time we lose people and knowledge. Longer-term consistent funding would make it much easier to retain skilled people and maintain organisational capacity.

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Q: What practical actions can everyday residents take to help address these issues, and are there particular actions people should be taking?

Terrain NRM: It’s basically about being mindful of the impact of our actions on the environment. Anything that goes down the sink or stormwater drain ends up in our waterways.

Things like reducing waste, recycling, avoiding unnecessary single-use plastics, composting food scraps and being careful about how we use household chemicals all help reduce pollution entering the environment.

Washing the car on the lawn instead of on the drive, picking your dog poo up, reducing use of fertilisers and pesticides in the garden, maintaining vegetation on your property etc.

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For those that are super keen, get involved in volunteer activities like tree planting days, habitat restoration and beach clean-ups.

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Many generations of former students, teachers, P&C members, canteen volunteers, friends and families gathered to reminisce about their time with Trebonne State School.

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By Victoria Velton

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A simple afternoon tea at Trebonne State School has brought generations of former students, teachers, P&C members, canteen volunteers and other familiar faces back through the school gates.

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“Some of the ladies were talking at coffee one day and apparently they said they’d love to come along and all get together and reminisce about all the old things they used to do here,” Principal Anne Bower said.

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The school opened its doors 120 years ago, and its history was on display throughout the afternoon, with old trophies and photo albums dating back to the 1940s, giving former students plenty to look through and talk about.

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Merle Skinner was among those revisiting the school, having attended Trebonne State School as a young girl around 1940. Her son Wallis attended the school decades later, in the 1960s, giving the pair a chance to share memories from two different generations of the school’s history.

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Merle remembered playing basketball and being part of a small class, with just five students in her grade.

Wallis recalled school parades, marching back into the classrooms to the sound of drums and the strong involvement of the P&C.

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He said the P&C could attract 15 or 20 people to meetings, with parents heavily involved in fundraising, sporting activities, the tuck shop and maintaining the school.

The fundraising efforts included peach blossoms made by the ladies, which helped pay for the shelter where the canteen now stands.

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“We raised money to buy the first computer,” Wallis laughed.

Former student Kate Russo attended Trebonne State School from 1979 and took such joy from the photos albums letting her travel back to school moments. Such as winning Maraka Parade with Little Toot the train and being in charge of the radishes of the school gardens.

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“I think it was probably how community-minded it was because we used to have the gardens over there, and then we’d do the tomato relish,” Ms Russo said.

She also remembered the school’s traditional end-of-year water fights.

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“Every last day of the school year, we’d always have a water fight. We’d fill up the water balloons, and it would be all the kids against the teachers,” she said.

“One of the farmers would bring a pile of watermelon around, and we’d just break up the school year by having watermelons. It was just very cool.”

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Ms Bower said the gathering was also an opportunity to create something for future generations, with Bunnings donating tiles for a new memory wall featuring past students.

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“I hope the tradition of the school continues for another 120 years,” Ms Bower said.

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See more photos here: www.hinchinbrooklife.com/social-pics/trebonne-state-school-brings-generations-together

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Female apprentices across the Hinchinbrook region are being encouraged to put their names forward for the 2027 Women in Manufacturing Apprentice Awards.

Do you know a local operator, trade school, or business with an amazing apprentice who absolutely deserves this outstanding recognition?

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Well, the Queensland Government awards recognise outstanding female apprentices working across the state’s manufacturing sector, with two awards and a total prize pool of $15,000 on offer.

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The Leading Apprentice Award winner will receive $10,000, while a Highly Commended Apprentice will receive $5000 to put towards professional development, training, education, tools or uniforms.

With Queensland Manufacturing Month kicking off on September 1st, local manufacturing businesses, trade operators and schools with female apprentices are being encouraged to consider nominating their standout apprentices.

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The awards recognise women demonstrating leadership, initiative and strong communication skills, with opportunities spanning areas including advanced manufacturing, robotics and critical minerals processing.

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Nominations are open until October 9th, 2026, with the winners to be announced at the Brisbane Women in Manufacturing Breakfast in March 2027, coinciding with International Women’s Day.

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The 2026 Leading Apprentice Award was won by second-year automotive electrician Zahlee Wheeler, who said her apprenticeship had shaped who she was and encouraged other young women to consider careers in the industry.

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“I am very passionate about lifting up other female apprentices in the manufacturing industry – there are so many opportunities for women to build rewarding careers, take on leadership roles and make a real impact in this industry,” Ms Wheeler said.

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Local employers and schools can nominate an outstanding female apprentice through the Women in Manufacturing Apprentice Awards.

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For more information and to nominate, visit www.nrmmrrd.qld.gov.au/manufacturing/women-in-manufacturing/apprentice-awards  

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The low tide saw many boaties beached up and stuck at the sandbars. Photos used with permission: Lucinda Coast guard QF-14

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By Victoria Velton

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Boaties using the Dungeness Point crossing are being urged to check the tides carefully after numerous boats found themselves stuck on the sandbar on August 11th and again on August 12th.

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During a very low tide, a drone photographed the exit from Dungeness to the sea, showing blockages of the channel through the sandbar at the western ends of the two deeper sections. The photograph also showed 11 boats stuck on the sandbar after attempting to cross and return to the Dungeness ramp.

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The Lucinda Coast Guard said many boats became stuck after attempting to push through, with expensive motor and propeller damage a potential consequence. Meanwhile, more sensible boaties anchored in the Swing Basin to await the incoming tide rather than risk getting caught on the shallow crossing.

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The Coast Guard is reminding boaties heading out wide to pay close attention to the tide chart and plan their trips around having sufficient water under the keel.

“As a rule, there is half as much water on the bar to whatever the tide is at any moment,” the Coast Guard said.

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The warning is particularly important for those unfamiliar with the crossing, as a high tide reading does not necessarily mean there will be the same depth of water over the bar.

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The Lucinda Coast Guard urges all boaties to take the time to check conditions before heading out and ensure there is sufficient water beneath their hull to cross safely.

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A little patience while waiting for the incoming tide could save an expensive repair bill and an unwanted wait on the sandbar.

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Elizabeth Phillips, President of the Ingham Lions Club for 2026-27. Photo supplied: Elizabeth Phillips

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By Victoria Velton

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After more than 15 years of serving her community through Ingham Lions, Elizabeth Phillips has stepped into the role of President for 2026-2027, describing the appointment as both a huge honour and a proud moment.

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Elizabeth and her husband joined Ingham Lions in 2009, motivated by friends whose commitment to helping the community had made an impression on them. Her connection to Lions began even earlier, however, with Elizabeth having been involved with Leos, the youth-oriented branch of the organisation, during her early twenties.

“Becoming President of the Ingham Lions Club is a huge honour and a proud moment for me. It’s an achievement and an opportunity to support my fellow club members as we work to fulfil our Community Goals,” Elizabeth said.

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Over the next 12 months, Elizabeth’s role will involve leading the club, presiding over meetings, coordinating projects and bringing members together to continue Lions’ presence across the Hinchinbrook community.

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That work encompasses a wide range of local causes, with the club currently assisting Council with funding towards a cover for a barbecue in Rotary Park. Over the years, Ingham Lions has also collaborated with Apex to replace a 14-seater bus for the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre, while supporting Meals on Wheels, the Hurley Bus, Coast Guard and the School Breakfast Program.

The club has also contributed to local initiatives such as the CCIA bike ride and supported causes including Childhood Cancer, Mental Health and the Lions Clubs International Foundation.

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For Elizabeth, the importance of Lions is particularly evident when the community faces challenging times.

“The Lions Club contribution is crucial as we serve often as first responders during emergencies, such as floods or cyclones,” she said.

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While her goal is to continue the excellent work established by previous presidents, Elizabeth’s year will also feature a major event, with Ingham Lions hosting the 201Q2 District Convention from November 13-15.

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The three-day convention will bring Lions members from across the district to Ingham, with a bus tour of the Hinchinbrook area planned as part of the itinerary. It will also be a special occasion for the local club, with Ingham Lions member Ed Morris taking on the role of District Governor.

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As Elizabeth looks to the future, however, she recognises that attracting new members remains an important challenge.

“Membership… like many non-profit organisations of today, we find it increasingly difficult to engage and recruit the younger generation,” she said.

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For anyone who has considered joining but is unsure whether Lions is for them, Elizabeth has an enthusiastic invitation.

“Take a Leap! The rewards of serving your community and building lasting friendships are immeasurable,” she said.

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“If it’s something you think you might be interested in doing, it’s as simple as contacting me or any other member at inghamlionsclub@gmail.com”

Elizabeth would ultimately like to see the wider Hinchinbrook community get behind Lions in whatever way they can, whether that means volunteering, attending an event, donating or simply learning more about the club.

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“I would love to see Hinchinbrook community supporting one, two or all of the above. It can make a significant impact on our collective efforts,” she said.

After years of service, Elizabeth is looking forward to leading the club into its next chapter, while remaining grateful for the support that has allowed Lions to continue making a difference locally.

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“I’d like to thank the Hinchinbrook Community for all their past support and I look forward to a successful year ahead,” she said.

And, fittingly, she returns to the words that have guided the organisation for generations: “We Serve.”

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The Halifax Hotel is turning up the cool factor as the weather warms, with a new range of boozy slushies already proving a popular addition to the pub’s drinks menu.

The icy-cold creations are designed to be refreshing with a little something extra, with three flavours currently available.

The Lemon Drop combines sweet and sour for a refreshing hit, while the Fiery Ginger brings that cheeky kick. For those seeking a caffeine fix, the Mochatini offers creamy chocolate and coffee flavours.

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The slushies are best enjoyed whilst the sun out- and luckily for us, that’s most of the time.

The new drinks are part of the hotel’s ongoing efforts to welcome locals and visitors while a major restoration project continues behind the scenes.

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Plans for the next stage of the refurbishment have now been finalised, with restoration works set to begin.

The owners said they had not anticipated the restoration taking quite so long to complete - but additional time has been worth spending.

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The decision to meticulously rebuild and preserve the heritage of the historic hotel means the building’s original character will be retained while incorporating modern design and upgraded facilities.

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In the meantime, the Halifax Hotel is open and welcoming customers, with beers on tap, an expanded drinks range, locally made North Queensland products and live NRL on the big screen.

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And with the new boozy slushies already making a splash, there is now another reason to drop in, grab a cold drink and enjoy a taste of what the revitalised Halifax Hotel has to offer.

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Be it a drop of a Lemon Drop, a sip of Fiery Ginger, or a Mochatini or two, the new slushie range looks set to be a cool addition to the Halifax summer.

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