For Lifesaving Blood Drive

The annual Australian Red Cross Lifeblood Emergency Services Blood Drive is now underway, with Queenslanders urged to donate blood or plasma between 1 June and 31 August.

Fire, Ambulance, Police, and SES workers from across the state are leading the charge in this vital campaign, which provides a crucial boost to blood and plasma stocks over the winter months when many regular donors are sidelined by illness.

The Crisafulli Government is encouraging as many people as possible to get involved.

Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Tim Nicholls and Member for Rockhampton Donna Kirkland launched the challenge by donating alongside paramedics.

“From patients facing cancer, to those undergoing heart surgery and those who have suffered severe burns – there are many situations and conditions that require blood and plasma donations,” Minister Nicholls said.

“I encourage as many Queenslanders as possible to roll up their sleeves and donate to the lifesaving Australian Red Cross Lifeblood Emergency Services Blood Drive.”

Ms Kirkland said the campaign hits close to home for many frontline workers.

“Our emergency services workers, who often face traumatic incidents that involve patients who will need a blood or plasma transfusion, are doing their bit and are donating as part of the drive,” she said.

“But you don’t have to wear a uniform to save lives. People like you and me can also roll up their sleeves and donate lifesaving blood or plasma.”

To book an appointment, visit lifeblood.com.au, call 13 14 95, or download the DonateBlood app.

State Emergency Services (SES) groups across Queensland are set to benefit from nearly $2 million in funding as part of a major investment in local disaster response capability.

The government has announced $1.97 million in SES Support Grants to support 32 SES groups across the state — from remote Doomadgee to the Gold Coast — with upgrades to vehicles, facilities, equipment, and training sites.

Successful projects include a new SES facility in Doomadgee Aboriginal Shire Council ($150,000), vehicle replacements for SES depots in Atherton ($225,000) and Yeppoon (over $95,000), sand pit structures in Babinda, Edmonton and surrounding areas (over $123,000), and more than $86,000 to upgrade security at Goodna’s SES depot. Ingham will also benefit from funding to revitalise its SES building.

Minister for Police and Emergency Services Dan Purdie said the funding is a strategic investment in Queensland’s emergency preparedness.

“Our SES groups play a critical role in natural disasters and our Government is pleased to be able to boost capability ahead of the next major weather event,” Minister Purdie said.

“These grants will help ensure SES groups are armed with the essentials to help them continue to perform their great work to keep communities safe, right across Queensland.”

Other upgrades include nearly $40,000 for an ATV and trailer at Quilpie/Eromanga, helping SES crews access difficult terrain during flood and fire events.

With the next storm season approaching, the investment ensures Queensland’s frontline responders are better equipped to serve their communities.

Centacare FNQ’s Disaster Recovery team has been supporting communities across the Cassowary Coast in the wake of this year’s floods. Working in close partnership with local organisations, the team is leading coordinated recovery efforts. With an experienced local team of case managers and mental health professionals, Centacare is providing immediate relief and support to help residents recover, rebuild and strengthen community resilience for the long term.

Centacare FNQ’s Disaster Recovery Team Leader Patrick Sim said his team remains committed to actively supporting the Cardwell Community and the surrounding areas.

“As part of our ongoing efforts, our team will be conducting door-to-door visits in the coming weeks to check in with residents, offer assistance, and provide updated information on available recovery services.

"We understand that recovery is a long journey, and we are here to ensure no one is left behind. If you see our team in your area, please don’t hesitate to reach out - we’re here to help.”

Centacare FNQ will maintain an active presence in Cardwell and throughout the Cassowary Coast, ensuring that help is readily available for everyone affected and in need of support.

Their suite of disaster support services includes case management, system navigation, mental health assistance, and community outreach.

Centacare FNQ’s local recovery team is available Monday to Friday from 9 am to 4 pm, at 33c Butler Street, Tully (former Work Ways building) and every Tuesday and Thursday from 9.30am – 12.30pm at 79 Victoria Street, Cardwell (behind Bendigo Bank.) To learn more, phone 0418 537 310 or email ccr@centacarefnq.org

Appointments are not required, but can be scheduled via the contact details above.

One of Hinchinbrook’s most beloved family fun days is making its much-anticipated return this Saturday, 14 June, as Tasman Turtle’s Picnic Day takes over TYTO Parklands in Ingham for another action-packed celebration.

From 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., families can enjoy a day of entertainment, creativity, and connection—all completely free. Proudly hosted by Hinchinbrook Shire Council, the event offers the perfect chance for locals and visitors alike to come together in one of the region’s most scenic natural settings.

New for 2025 is a rock-climbing wall and fun-filled circus workshops by CircUp, offering everything from juggling and tumbling to acro balance and plate spinning. Crowd favourites are also set to return, including Adrenaline Games Laser Tag, a petting zoo from Carter’s Farm, and colourful face painting.

The event places a strong focus on environmental awareness, with interactive eco-friendly activities designed to inspire sustainable habits in fun and engaging ways.

Food, drinks, and sweet treats will be available for purchase throughout the day, with local vendors offering something for every taste.

Whether exploring creative workshops, playing adrenaline-pumping games, or simply soaking up the sunshine with family and friends, Tasman Turtle’s Picnic Day is set to be a vibrant community celebration.

For more information, contact Hinchinbrook Shire Council’s Events Team on 4776 4600 or email events@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au.

WHAT: Tasman Turtle's Picnic Day
WHEN: Saturday 14th June
WHERE: TYTO Parklands, 73–75 McIlwraith Street, Ingham

In regional and rural North Queensland, accessing timely, quality mental health care can still be a real challenge, especially for families, young people, and those living in smaller communities.

That’s where Tumbleweed Therapies comes in.

Based in Townsville, Tumbleweed Therapies operates on a hub-and-spoke model, providing fortnightly outreach clinics in Ingham, with new locations opening soon in Ayr and Charters Towers. The aim is simple: making practical, down-to-earth psychological support more accessible to people who might often miss out.

Led by psychologist Toby Bartle, Tumbleweed Therapies offers assessment and therapy for adolescents, young adults, and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, addiction, stress, or navigating disabilities like autism, intellectual disabilities, ADHD, executive functioning challenges, and more. Services are neuro-affirming, research-informed, and shaped by ongoing training in neuroscience and behaviour change.

After moving from metropolitan Perth to regional Queensland in 2017, Toby saw just how tough it can be to access the kind of support many city dwellers take for granted. That’s why Tumbleweed is focused on offering support that is not only evidence-based but also relatable, flexible, and tailored to life in the regions.

The practice works closely with GPs, paediatricians, psychiatrists, schools, parents, support coordinators and the wider community. Helping people make meaningful progress, whether they’re managing daily stress, navigating a diagnosis, or building new skills.

Mental health care doesn’t need to be intimidating. Sometimes it’s just about having someone who gets it, and someone to help you make sense of things and take that next step, whatever that may be.

If you or someone you support could benefit from a fresh perspective and friendly guidance, we’d love to hear from you. Get in touch and let’s have a chat, phone 07 4463 8679, email admin@tumbleweedtherapies.com or check us out online www.tumbleweedtherapies.com.au

Women interested in connecting more with their local community are warmly invited to join the QCWA Forrest Beach Branch.

“We are a warm, friendly group of ladies who are passionate about making a difference, learning together and sharing good company. New members are always welcome, and now is the perfect time to get involved,” said a local member.

The next branch meeting is scheduled for Thursday, 12 June at 9:00am at the QCWA Hall on Palm Street, Forrest Beach. Meetings are held on the second Thursday of every month, beginning at 9:30am following a morning tea catch-up.

“Whether your interest lies in lending a hand to local causes, enjoying social time with others, or learning something new, there is something here for you.”

Throughout the week, the branch hosts a variety of regular activities.

On Monday mornings at 9:00am, Healthy Living sessions offer gentle exercise followed by morning tea and a relaxed opportunity for conversation and connection.

The library, stocked with donated books, is open on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday mornings from 9:00am, where visitors can browse, borrow, or purchase books for a gold coin donation.
While clean, good-condition book donations are welcome, magazines are not accepted at this time.

Each Thursday morning, except on meeting days, Craft Mornings begin at 9:00am. This is a welcoming space to work on creative projects, share ideas, and develop skills, whether participants are experienced crafters or simply curious to learn.

The branch expresses gratitude to the community for supporting recent markets, including purchasing cakes, visiting the library, exploring craft stalls, and browsing pre-loved treasures.

The Annual General Meeting will be held on 20 July 2025. Anyone interested in joining the executive team is encouraged to attend and get involved.

For more information, contact President Margaret Hill on 04 2785 6725.

Hinchinbrook’s most eligible outback bachelors are being called upon to star in the next season of Farmer Wants a Wife, the world’s most successful dating show!

Adapted from the hit British reality TV show, Australia’s Farmer Wants a Wife follows a number of farmers as they go out on a series of romantic dates with women in pursuit of true love. Broadcast across the nation, the series has led to over a hundred marriages, long-term relationships, and happy families worldwide, and casting has well and truly begun ahead of its 16th season.

A casting call has been sounded across the shire, leaving local farmers in the spotlight after producers identified Hinchinbrook as a promising region for potential bachelors. With feelings of excitement and “showbiz buzz” spreading across the cane fields and throughout the paddocks, eligible farmers are being nominated for the series left, right, and centre, and casting directors say the show’s success speaks for itself.

“The stats don’t lie, this show works,” shared directors online.

“Your chances of finding love are high, and this could really change your life!”

In seasons past, 11 Australian farmers have found a wife, nine more have found long-term love, and 27 babies have been born.

“We’re searching for our next crop of farmers, and if you’re a single farmer who’d like to find love – apply now – it’s your turn!”

To date, the show has cast farmers from across the country, hailing from farmlands in New South Wales, Tasmania, South Australia, Western Australia, Victoria, and Queensland, from regions including Cunnamulla, Richmond, Mareeba, Rockhampton, Hughenden, Innisfail, Biloela, and Stanthorpe, to name a few. However, in the past 18 years, the show is yet to cast a farmer hailing from the Hinchinbrook Shire…

The application process asks farmers to simply fill in all contact details, answer a couple of questions, upload a recent photo, and let the producers work their magic! Whether you’re a single farmer yourself or know one who deserves a shot at romance, applications can be made online at www.farmerwantsawife.com.au or nominations can be emailed to farmerwantsawife@eurekaproductions.au.

You Matter!

If you’re a mother feeling isolated, overwhelmed, or just in need of a safe space to connect, then Mummy’s Matter might be exactly what you’ve been looking for. Based at the local community support centre in Ingham, and run in a warm, welcoming environment, Mummy’s Matter is a judgement-free group designed specifically for mums who may be feeling vulnerable, socially isolated, or who are experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, postnatal depression. It also welcomes expectant mothers who feel they may be at risk of these challenges.

This group is not only about support, though that’s at its heart, it’s really all about connection, understanding, and creating a sense of belonging. Mummy’s Matter provides a friendly and positive space where you’ll be met with empathy, not judgement. Whether you're navigating the ups and downs of new motherhood or just need a listening ear, this is a safe space where you're never alone.

Led by a community support worker from the lovely HCSC team, the sessions take a community-based approach, meaning you’ll be surrounded by others who understand, in a space that encourages openness, trust, and healing. Best of all, under school-aged children are welcome to attend with their mums, so there’s no need to find a carer in order to take part.

If you, or someone you know, could benefit from this supportive space, don’t hesitate to reach out. Call Shannen on 4776 1822 for more information, as motherhood doesn’t have to be a lonely journey. Mummy’s Matter is here to walk alongside you.

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The Canegrower's Link2Country Expo could not have been better! An attendance of 1,533 people was recorded over the course of the action-packed weekend, with event organisers praising the community, it’s amazing team, volunteers and generous sponsors for making the incredible extravaganza possible.

Held on the 23rd and 24th of May at the Ingham Showgrounds, the event was created to connect students, jobseekers, farmers, travellers and businesses together in celebration of the agricultural industry’s enduring strength within the Hinchinbrook Shire.

Created on the pillars of education, entertainment and encouragement, the expo hosted a dynamic Agri Life Skills Program to provide students with a genuine, hands-on experience of what its like to work within the agricultural industry through establishing connections with local businesses and opening doors to future career opportunities. In anticipation of what the weekend would entail, organisers hoped to reach 500 students, however officials have excitingly confirmed an incredible 872 students participated in the program!

“That’s 872 opportunities to kick start a career in ag, which is amazing,” shared Link2Country online.

“A heartfelt thank you to everyone who made it possible – from the schools and supervisors to our amazing volunteers and industry experts – your support helped bring our vision to life.”

119 businesses were also involved in the two-day long event, hosting excellent displays, and interactive activities to provide attendees with a true taste of agriculture.

“To all the businesses who took the time and effort to attend our first-ever event, thank you as your belief in our vision made it possible, and we’re so grateful we got to share this experience with you - whether it was via sponsorship, having a stall or in-kind support, thank you.”

With the festivities wrapped up, event organisers have begun looking towards the future, and have kindly asked attendees to share their thoughts, feelings and opinions on 2025’s event via an online feedback form available at www.link2country.com.au.

“New events are always a challenge, and we know we’re not perfect – your feedback is so important to help us learn, grow and make future events event better.”

Lane Pizzi might be a first-time reader of the Hinchinbrook newspaper, but he’s already proven he’s got what it takes to Catch Colin! At just 8 years old, Lane gave our sneaky croc a real run for his money, spotting him in 20 minutes flat.

With a keen eye sharpened by a love of fishing and the great outdoors, Lane is no stranger to tracking things down. Whether he's reeling in fish, exploring outside or racing to victory (like he did in both of his recent cross-country wins), Lane is clearly someone who doesn’t give up easily.

Although this was Lane’s first time flipping through the paper, it definitely won’t be his last. While he doesn’t have a favourite section yet, he certainly enjoyed the challenge of finding Colin. His top advice? Colin needs to up his game and make it really hard next time.

A big thanks to Lane’s nanny for helping him submit his entry and sending in the photo, and of course, a huge congratulations to Lane for catching Colin.

Special shout-out to 2nd snapper Rachele Lazzaroni, who also found Colin but just wasn't quick enough this time!

Well done, Lane! I'm heading back to the swamp to rethink my hiding strategy... until next time, later 'gators!

I’m grateful to once again share a few words in the wonderful Hinchinbrook Life.

Reflecting on the month of May, what a vibrant and eventful time it was across our beautiful region! From Link2Country to local fishing competitions, Playtime at Hinchinbrook Library in TYTO, Tea and Trivia, Find Your Futures, Theatre performances at the Shire Hall, and our heartwarming Baby Welcoming Ceremony. May certainly reminded us of how active, inclusive, and special our community truly is.

June promises just as much excitement in our slice of paradise. If you're visiting Hinchinbrook during the winter months, let me extend a very warm welcome – we’re delighted to have you here!

This month, various markets will be popping up across our district – check in with your local Progress Association for details on events happening in our glorious beaches, parks, and town centres.

One major highlight is Tasman Turtle’s Community Fun Picnic Day on Saturday, 14 June 2025, held in at the beautiful TYTO Parklands off Macrossan Avenue. There will be plenty of stalls and fun for the whole family – it’s not to be missed!

A quick reminder that the Hinchinbrook Aquatic Centre is now operating under its winter opening hours. You can contact the centre directly or visit their social media pages for the latest updates.

Also, with the annual cane harvesting season kicking off this month, please be extra cautious on our roads. Keep an eye out for cane trains and flashing lights at Wilmar rail crossings to ensure everyone stays safe.

Lastly, I want to take a moment to acknowledge those who may still be feeling the impact of February’s flooding event. Please know you're not alone. The Recovery Team is still helping with referrals, and the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre along with our local NDIS providers, are available to assist with any ongoing needs. If you’re unsure where to find these services, don’t hesitate to contact Council on 4776 4600 or drop into the Council office and our friendly staff are here to help.

Let’s continue supporting one another and celebrating all that makes Hinchinbrook such a wonderful place to live and visit.

Putting Local Health First

Since opening its doors full-time in Ingham 2016, Performance Physio Group in Ingham has become a cornerstone of physiotherapy care for the Hinchinbrook community. The clinic provides a broad range of services, from musculoskeletal treatment and sports injury management to aged care. With a strong focus on active rehabilitation and preventative care, their team works closely with patients to support recovery, improve mobility, and enhance quality of life.

Led by Director and Senior Physiotherapist Mitchell Seri, who grew up in Ingham, along with physiotherapists Sonya Bell and Jacob Spiteri, the clinic continues to evolve and expand its services to suit the needs of the local population. Whether it's post-operative orthopaedic rehabilitation, workplace injury management, or exercise physiology, Performance Physio Group Ingham offers tailored treatment options across all ages and fitness levels.

A standout area of development at the clinic is women’s health support with specialist Sonya Bell. Many women experience conditions such as stress incontinence, pelvic pain, or symptoms following childbirth or menopause, yet may not seek treatment. Performance Physio Group Ingham is working to change that. Their physiotherapy services in this area aim to support women dealing with urinary urgency, bladder and bowel dysfunction, vaginal discomfort, and pelvic organ prolapse, among other concerns. By addressing these sensitive but common issues, the clinic empowers women to regain confidence and comfort in their daily lives.

Additional specialised services include core strengthening (drawing on Pilates principles), and the clinic is also registered to provide support under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).

Performance Physio Group Ingham is committed to providing professional, personalised care to help every patient live a more active and fulfilling life. Their team remains up to date with the latest treatments and best practices in the field, ensuring residents have access to quality physiotherapy close to home.

Contact them today by phone on 07 4776 0355 or stop by and make an appointment at 82 Cartwright Street, Ingham. Their hours are Monday to Thursday: 8am – 5pm, Friday 8am – 11.30am.

By Simon Hood, Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

It’s great to see the 2025 production season off to an early start, with crushing under way in the Burdekin and Plane Creek regions, and the Herbert commencing this week. The weather continues to cooperate, and we hope that remains the case so all regions can get sugar into the sheds.

The #11 sugar contract continues to trend lower, with little change in the global surplus production forecast. The recent UNICA report for the first half of May 2025 showed Brazilian harvest progress catching up, though it remains 20% behind the same period last year.

Cane tonnes and sugar mix have increased, but Total Recoverable Sugar (CCS) remains low. The report aligned with market expectations. However, a 5.6% drop in gasoline prices by Petrobras halted a rally, as ethanol parity fell below 15 USc/lb.

We are forecasting a small global surplus for the 2025–26 season, mainly due to another large Brazilian crop expected. Indian production also looks strong, supported by an early monsoon, with forecasts of 32.5 million tonnes for 2025–26, up from 26 million in 2024–25. In Thailand, weak cassava prices are likely to result in another bumper crop, reinforcing export competition.

Our 2025 Season Commencement of Crush Pool reports were released last week. Notably, the Allocation Account forecast is significantly lower than last year due to a drop in physical premiums. This reflects increased Thai production impacting our sales into traditional Asian markets.

Additionally, the US Quota estimate has been reduced for both the 2024 and 2025 seasons, with import tariffs now factored in. It’s still early in the season, but growers should be aware that the strong physical premiums of recent years are under threat.

Across the regions, we’ve been connecting with growers at events such as the inaugural Link2Country Expo in Ingham, and the Sweet Days, Hot Nights Festival and Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships in the Burdekin.

Our Burdekin Relationship Manager, Fiona Villis, presented the Under 35 Category awards at the Cane Cutting Championships, proudly sponsored by Wilmar Sugar and Renewables.

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Carina Chesson Receives Queensland Day Award

We all know it’s the people who make Queensland truly legendary. And when disaster strikes, it’s often the quiet heroes who rise to the challenge without fanfare or fuss. Carina Chesson is one of those heroes. Recognised as one of this year’s Queensland Day's five Local Legends, Carina showed what it means to step up for your community when it needs you most. From heart to hand, her actions during the devastating February floods in Ingham proved that greatness lives in compassion, grit and relentless care.

Recognising Carina Chesson A Queensland Day Local Legend

Premier David Crisafulli recognised Carina Chesson as 'a teacher who was a lifeline for her community during the Ingham floods,' as when historic flooding hit Hinchinbrook in early 2025, Carina became a community powerhouse. Turning her own home into a hub of action and care, and through the 'TRAVEL, TOURISM & Flood CHATTER BOX – Hinchinbrook & Ingham' Facebook page, she kept thousands updated with real-time flood information, donation drop-off points, fuel alerts, road closures, and rescue contacts.

Working with SES and Defence Force crews, Carina ferried food and supplies, helped locate safe accommodation for stranded families, and coordinated care for the lost and isolated. She handed out essentials, tracked down urgent items, performed welfare checks, and lifted up the spirits and actions of her fellow volunteers. She also helped notify pet owners of stranded animals and made sure families knew where to go and what services were still operating.

Her steady, loving message was always: “Please be patient. Please be kind.”

“I helped ferry food for the police and the unsung heroes; the delivery truck drivers who were the true heroes collecting food, fuel, and generators non-stop for 7 days through torrential downpours. I made sure they were fed and had hot drinks to sustain them also,” Carina said.

“With so much trauma at the disaster centre at my place-of-work the cyclone shelter (Ingham State High School’s auditorium), to assisting everyone there, whilst maintaining constant checking in on the elderly around town whose children could not check on them, themselves. Lots had to be done, and you have to soldier on and do it.”

“Having this recognition is extremely humbling and even embarrassing, as there were hundreds of others helping out as well, throughout the whole Hinchinbrook Shire."

Amid all this, Carina also became a grandmother for the first time, celebrating the arrival of her granddaughter even as she cared for so many others.

Whether she was making hot drinks for delivery drivers, helping people fill out recovery paperwork, cooking, cleaning and comforting, running her veranda like a laundry, and never asking others to do what she wouldn’t, or just relaying updates in moments of chaos, Carina showed resilience, empathy and the true spirit of a Queensland legend.

Tour de Cure Australia has recently completed another impressive journey to continue raising much needed funds in support of cancer research – reaffirming the organisation's mission statement, “we won’t stop until cancer does” once again.

Over the course of a week extending from the 30th of May to the 6th of June, Tour de Cure’s Signature Tour cycled from Airle Beach to Port Douglas, covering 1184kms and raising valuable funds for cancer research, support programs and prevention initiatives.

“We’re more than a group of cyclists – we’re riding to make a difference as every kilometre supports cancer services in the very communities we ride through as well as funds scientific cancer research breakthroughs,” shared the organisation online.

After making many meaningful contributions along the eastern coastline, the inspirational group of dedicated cyclists changed the lives of many within the Hinchinbrook Shire on the 2nd of June after delivering an overwhelming grant to Ingham Health Service totalling $10,000.

Met with smiles, tears and powerful stories, the group were empowered to continue their mission, and on day five, the group rode through the heart of Far North Queensland after enjoying a beautiful breakfast with plenty of locals in the heart of Ingham.

Riding on, Tour de Cure’s Signature Tour presented Blue Care Tully Community Centre with a $10,000 grant towards its palliative care services and delivered life-changing messages of prevention to students at St Peter’s, Tully State School, Macknade, Cardwell and El Arish Primary Schools.

As the Tour de Cure’s Signature Tour drew to an emotional close last Friday, many were touched by the dedication of all the cyclists involved, praising them for the monumental journey they had completed.

“We don’t just ride for those who survive, we ride for those we’ve lost, and now we ride for those we want to help, and we ride to find a cure,” shared one of the Tour de Cure’s Signature Tour’s cyclists.