Swiftwater firefighters were deployed across Far North Queensland over the weekend as emergency services prepare for the potential impacts of Tropical Cyclone Narelle.

Specialist teams from Queensland Fire and Rescue have positioned themselves in key locations including Port Douglas, Mossman, Mareeba, Halifax, Cardwell, Ingham, Tully and Innisfail to ensure a rapid response if flooding occurs.

Ahead of the cyclone, crews have been training alongside local responders in flood-prone waterways, identifying hazards that can become difficult to detect once water levels rise.

Authorities say this preparation is critical in regions where fast-moving floodwaters can pose significant risks to both residents and emergency personnel.

A rotary aircraft has also been placed on standby in Cairns, ready to transport swiftwater teams into remote or isolated communities if needed.

Residents are being urged to stay informed as conditions develop and to follow all official warnings and advice.

Emergency services have reinforced a clear safety message: never enter floodwaters under any circumstances. In life-threatening situations, the public is reminded to call Triple Zero (000) immediately.

Authorities warn residents to stay up-to-date with weather forecasts and act quickly on any advice from authorities. Photo source: Queensland Fire and Rescue

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Have a child or teenager in your life who just needs a little extra nudge to step into the spotlight? The Cassowary Coast Talent Quest 2026 is the perfect opportunity to build confidence, showcase creativity and have some fun along the way.

This exciting variety show competition is open to ages 5 to 18 and welcomes a wide range of performances. Whether it is singing, dancing, playing an instrument, comedy, poetry, spoken word, dramatic monologues, magic, cultural performances or something completely unique, all talents are encouraged to take part.

With supportive and encouraging judges, participants will have the chance to refine their skills while performing in front of a live audience. There are also fantastic prizes up for grabs in each age category.

For ages 5 to 9, 10 to 13, and 14 to 18, first place winners will receive a trophy and $500 cash, second place a trophy and $300 cash, and third place a trophy and $200 cash.

There will also be four Judge’s Favourite Awards, each receiving $100 cash and a trophy. On top of that, the People’s Choice Award, voted by the live audience, will take home $100 cash and a trophy.

More information will be released soon, so stay tuned.

To find out more or register your interest, get in touch via Facebook Messenger at Cassowary Coast Talent Quest or email cassowarycoasttalentquest@gmail.com

Give It A Go!

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The upcoming school holidays are shaping up to be anything but boring, with a packed program of activities popping up across the Cassowary Coast.

Running from Friday 3 April to Sunday 19 April, the region will come alive with a mix of outdoor adventures, creative workshops, markets and family-friendly events — giving locals and visitors plenty of reasons to get out and about.

Get Outside and Get Moving

Kick-start the holidays with some fresh air and exercise with the whole family (four-legged members included) at one of the region’s weekly parkruns. Held every Saturday, these relaxed community runs welcome all ages and fitness levels. Paradise Run Mission Beach begins bright and early at 6:45am, while Cardwell and Greenbark parkruns start at 7am, offering scenic routes and a great way to explore the outdoors.

Markets, Music and Coastal Vibes

Nothing says holidays quite like a morning at the markets, and the Cassowary Coast delivers in style. The much-loved Cardwell Jetty Easter Markets will return on Saturday 4 April at the Cardwell Foreshore, bringing with them live music, local stalls and the always-entertaining crab races.

Marketgoers can turn it into a full weekend outing, with the Mission Beach Markets taking place the following day at Ulysses Park on Sunday, 5 April and Sunday 19 April from 7am to 12pm. The holiday period will also see markets pop up in Tully on Saturday, 11 April from 7am to 12pm on Butler Street and in the El Arish Community Hall from 7am to 12pm on Sunday 12 April, giving visitors plenty of chances to browse handmade goods, sample local produce and soak up the relaxed coastal atmosphere.

Action-Packed Fun Days

Children bursting with energy will have a blast at the School Holiday Fun Days at Marc’s Park in Mission Beach, with organisers promising the days will entail buckets of high-energy excitement. Held on both Thursday 7 and Tuesday 14 April, these sessions are designed for primary school-aged children (6 to 13) and will feature team games, challenges and sports including basketball, handball and football.

With limited spots available, organisers are encouraging families to book early to secure a place in what is expected to be a popular program via contacting Latesha Taylor on 0456 307 214.

Get Creative at Mission Arts

Creativity will be front and centre at the Mission Beach Community Arts Centre, where a variety of painting and pottery workshops will run throughout the holidays.

With acrylic painting sessions and hands-on pottery classes led by experienced artists on offer, there are opportunities for both beginners and more experienced creatives to try something new and take home their own handmade pieces. Our Cassowary Coast Event Guide features a full, detailed list of what’s on… keep an eye out for that one in issues to come!

The centre will also host a special screening of The Penguin Lessons on Saturday 11 April from 7pm to 9pm. The heartwarming film, based on a true story, follows a teacher whose life, and the lives of his students, are transformed after rescuing a penguin!

Library Fun

Several activities will be held across the Cassowary Coast Libraries over the course of the school holidays, with Cardwell Library kicking things off with an Anzac Wreath Workshop on Wednesday, 8 April from 10am to 11am. Other activities set to be held at the Cardwell Library, Tully Library, Mission Beach Library and Innisfail Library including Coral Reef Creations Workshops, Nature Paint Play, Red Dirt Robotics and much more, will be listed on our Cassowary Coast Event Guide in issues to come!

If a quieter, but equally rewarding experience sounds more appealing to you and your children, then pop on down to the Innisfail Library to meet several adorable therapy dogs on 14 April!

Something a Little Different

Aspiring performers can also step into the spotlight at the Mission Arts Theatre Ensemble’s Kids Improv Class, offering a fun and confidence-building introduction to acting and performance on Tuesday 14 April from 4:30pm to 5:30pm.

A Holiday to Remember

With such a diverse range of activities on offer, from sunrise runs and seaside markets to art workshops and theatre, the Cassowary Coast is set for a vibrant and memorable school holiday period! Whether it’s getting active, getting creative or simply spending time together, there’s no shortage of ways for families to make the most of the break.

CAPTIONS:

1. Get out and get active with one of the several parkrun events on offer across the shire! Photo source: Paradise Run Mission Beach
2. The beloved Cardwell Jetty Easter Markets will be held on Saturday 4 April. Photo source: Cardwell Jetty Markets
3. Mission Beach Markets has been featured on multiple “Top 10 Things to do in Mission Beach” tourism guides! Photo source: Mission Neach Tourism
4. Close Girls Hands Sculpting Cup Clay Stock Photo 2550125787 | Shutterstock - Craft up a storm with Mission Beach Community Arts Centre’s Pottery Workshops! Photo source: Shutterstock
5. Several school holiday workshops will be held across all Cassowary Coast Library branches. Photo source: Cassowary Coast Libraries
6. Children Enjoying Art Class Painting Drawing Stock Photo 2473500545 | Shutterstock – Mission Beach Community Arts Centre will host several workshops focused on painting and creativity. Photo source: Shutterstock

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Queenslanders are being encouraged to play a role in the future of the state’s fisheries, with nominations now open for a series of advisory working groups.

The Queensland Government is calling for expressions of interest from stakeholders to join fishery working groups, which provide operational advice on the management of fisheries across the state.

These groups play an important role in bringing together a wide range of voices and helping guide sustainable practices within the industry.

Pauline Jacob said the department was seeking a diverse mix of representatives.

“This is a real opportunity for Queenslanders to play a vital role in the sustainable management of our fisheries, so they continue to grow and thrive,” Ms Jacob said.

“We are looking for people to join 11 working groups, including commercial and recreational fishers, charter operators, seafood marketers and processors, conservation representatives and First Nations peoples.

“While these working groups are not decision-making bodies, we rely on the advice of these groups to improve community engagement, prioritisation and our own decision-making,” she said.

The working groups aim to ensure Queensland’s fisheries are managed effectively, both now and into the future.

Nominations are open until 5pm, Tuesday 31 March 2026, with application details, guidelines and terms of reference available online via the Department of Primary Industries engagement hub.

Queenslanders with an interest in fisheries, sustainability or the marine environment are encouraged to apply.

The Queensland Government is seeking expressions of interest from stakeholders to join fishery working groups. Photo source: Shutterstock

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Ancient stone fish weirs on Hinchinbrook Island are drawing attention for their cultural and environmental significance, showcasing the deep connection between Indigenous communities and coastal ecosystems.

Senior community archaeologist Paul Montgomery recently highlighted the structures, noting the island is home to five stone weirs, including the large Scraggy Point tidal fish weirs, which cover an area of around 20,000 square metres.

The island, also known as Pouandai, is traditionally associated with the Biyaygiri people and forms part of the homelands of the Bandjin and Girramay peoples. These fish weirs, located among extensive mangrove tidal flats, were historically used as fish traps and remain central to cultural practices and traditional ecological knowledge.

Experts say such structures provide valuable insight into sustainable resource management, demonstrating how Indigenous communities have long worked in harmony with coastal environments.

The fish weirs are part of broader research into Indigenous cultural heritage and climate knowledge, highlighting their ongoing importance to both history and environmental understanding.

CAPTIONS:

1. Hinchinbrook Island has five stone weirs. Photo source: Senior Community Archaeologist, Paul Montgomery via LinkedIn
2. Hinchinbrook Island has a large area of mangrove tidal flats. Photo source: Senior Community Archaeologist, Paul Montgomery via LinkedIn

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Meet The Ubertastic Uther!

The sweet, affectionate Uther is full of love and personality. He adores spending time with people, enjoy cuddles just as much as playtime, and are always eager to make new friends. Curious and intelligent, he picks up new skills quickly and loves learning through play and positive interaction.

With his playful energy and gentle nature, he would make wonderful companions for families, couples, or individuals looking for a loyal best friend. Whether it’s learning basic commands, exploring the world, or curling up for a nap, Uther is ready to bring joy and laughter into his forever home.

If you’re interested in meeting Uther please complete an animal enquiry form at www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html

Included in adoption fee of $495 is desexing, micro-chipped, up to date vaccinations, flea/tick/intestinal worm treated & on heartworm preventative or Proheart

DOB: 19/09/2025
Sex: Male
Breed: bull Arab x
Colour: Brindle
Kid friendly: yes
Cat Friendly: untested
Other dogs: Yes
Fences: 5ft
BIN: BIN0000268254643

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By simply filling in a survey, Queenslanders can help shape plans for the state’s electricity networks.

Energex, Ergon Energy Network and Powerlink are encouraging customers to share insights on their energy use, including rooftop solar, battery storage and electric vehicle charging.  

Since the Queensland Household Energy Survey was launched in 2009, there have been significant advances in technology, and the electricity distribution and transmission networks have evolved to meet the changing needs of customers.

Last year more than 4000 customers participated in the survey, which helps to build a picture of their immediate priorities and longer-term aspirations.

This qualitative data builds on the wealth of information Energex, Ergon and Powerlink use to plan prudent investment in the networks to ensure an affordable, reliable and safe electricity supply for millions of Queenslanders.

Have your say in the future of energy by completing the Queensland Household Energy Survey, which is open from now until Thursday 2 April at www.qhes.com.au

Please remember: Fallen powerlines can be hidden in tree branches and other debris. Take extra care when you are cleaning up, stay well away from any fallen powerlines and report them to emergency services on 000 or call the Ergon Faults Team on 13 16 70.

Making sites safe for the communities and everyone supporting them in the clean-up and recovery phase will be the first priority for our crews before they commence restoration work in damaged sites.

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Women across Queensland are being supported to return to work, build new skills, and strengthen their economic security through a range of targeted programs and grants. From direct financial assistance to community-led initiatives, these efforts are helping to remove barriers and create meaningful pathways into employment.

A key initiative is the Women’s Career Grants program, which provides eligible women with up to $5,000 to assist with the costs of re-entering the workforce. The funding can be used for essential expenses such as workwear, childcare, training, recertification, transport, tools, technology, or relocation for new employment opportunities.

The program has already made a significant impact, with more than 1,000 women supported in its first round. Notably, 93 per cent of recipients accessed funding across multiple categories, highlighting the complex and varied challenges many women face when returning to work. Technology, recertification, and training were among the most commonly requested supports.

Minister for Women and Queensland’s first Minister for Women’s Economic Security Fiona Simpson said the initiative is helping to break down barriers for women across the state.

“Our Women’s Career Grants are breaking down barriers and providing cost-of-living relief to help women with the essentials to get back into work,” Minister Simpson said.

“The first round supported more than 1,000 women across Queensland and we’re already hearing some of their success stories. We’ll be aiming to empower the same number of women again – if not more – through Round 2.”

The program is delivered in partnership with Future Women, an organisation focused on advancing women’s economic participation. Founder and Managing Director Helen McCabe said the grants address a clear and growing need.

“The Women's Career Grants program addresses a clear need for women looking to return to paid work – whether that's covering laptops, technology, childcare or transport,” Ms McCabe said.

For many participants, the support has been life-changing. Gold Coast mother-of-four Lin Yang used the grant to purchase a laptop, workwear, and obtain a real estate licence, helping her transition into a new career.

“When I began my job search, I was navigating uncertainty while trying to create long-term stability for my family,” Ms Yang said.

“With that stability, I was able to prepare properly, refine my approach and present myself with confidence in interviews.

“I have now secured a position in a real estate agency, which provides a pathway for my professional growth.”

Complementing this program is the expanded Jobs Academy, which supports women over the age of 40 to return to work or further their education. With additional funding secured, the program will assist hundreds more women in gaining new skills and rebuilding their careers in the coming years.

Beyond individual support, community organisations are also playing a vital role in empowering women. The Empowering Queensland Women grants program provides funding to grassroots groups delivering initiatives focused on financial literacy, leadership development, and employment pathways. Grants of up to $10,000 are available to help organisations deliver training programs, host events, and create networking opportunities for women and girls.

In its first round, the program supported 29 organisations with a total of $279,000 in funding. These initiatives ranged from helping older women navigate housing challenges to delivering leadership programs and financial education workshops.

Minister Simpson said investing in community-led programs is essential to long-term change.

“We recognise that directly supporting financial literacy, leadership, and economic security programs helps in breaking down barriers and creating more opportunities for women and girls to succeed and thrive,” she said.

Among the funded organisations is Broken to Brilliant, which supports survivors of domestic and family violence. The group is expanding its “Financial Superwomen” workshops across North Queensland, providing practical tools to help women rebuild independence and stability.

Director Karen Lindsay said the program is designed to create lasting change for participants.

“These programs help reform responses to abuse, rebuild financial independence and stability, improve legal literacy, and give survivors back their voice,” Ms Lindsay said.

“We know there are higher risks and different risks for regional and rural women experiencing domestic and family violence, so we can’t wait to introduce this proven formula of the Financial Superwomen Workshop to the North Queensland centres.”

Together, these initiatives highlight a strong, coordinated approach to empowering women in the workforce. By addressing financial barriers, supporting skills development, and investing in community programs, Queensland continues to create opportunities for women to achieve greater independence, confidence, and long-term career success.

The Women’s Career Grants Round 2 applications can be lodged now at womenscareergrants.com.au and apply for support through the Jobs Academy at www.women.qld.gov.au/eqw

Grants and other support are available right now for Women seeking help in employment and upskilling. Photo sourced: womenscareergrants.com.au

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Cane growers and industry stakeholders from the Herbert Region have had the opportunity to help shape the future of the sugar industry, as Sugar Research Australia (SRA) continues its statewide consultation roadshow.

The sessions form part of a broader effort to develop SRA’s Strategic Plan 2026–2031, with meetings recently held across North Queensland, including nearby centres such as Babinda and Townsville.

Growers, millers and industry representatives from the Herbert and surrounding districts were invited to share local insights, priorities and challenges facing the sector, ensuring regional voices are reflected in future research and investment decisions.

The consultation series is being rolled out across all cane-growing regions throughout March, providing one of the most significant opportunities for stakeholders to directly influence the direction of the industry.

SRA says the feedback gathered will play a key role in shaping long-term strategies aimed at supporting productivity, sustainability and innovation across Australia’s sugarcane sector.

The roadshow will continue to visit remaining regions in the coming weeks, with further sessions planned across Queensland and New South Wales.

Growers across the state recently gathered to attend a series of workshops. Photo source: Sugar Research Australia

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Managing invasive species is one of the most important responsibilities we share as a community, particularly here in Hinchinbrook, where agriculture, natural ecosystems, and livelihoods are closely connected.

One weed that continues to pose a serious threat across our region is Navua sedge.

Navua sedge is an aggressive invasive plant that spreads rapidly and outcompetes pasture and crops, reducing productivity.

If left unmanaged, it can dominate entire paddocks, making land difficult to use and significantly increasing long‑term control costs.

Council’s “no slash zones” are a key part of our strategy to control this weed.

The name “no slash zone” doesn’t mean that the area doesn’t get slashed; it simply means that Council workers or contractors won’t be slashing the marked area. The landholder who has applied for the zone is responsible for mowing the area to reduce the spread of Navua sedge.

Grass on roadsides needs to be kept to a manageable height for safety and visibility. This also helps with road maintenance. It has been extremely wet this season, and mowing in some areas has been difficult. Some no slash zones have been kept short and tidy; however, others haven’t. If you have a no slash zone that you are responsible for, I hope the weather fines up soon and you get the opportunity to tidy it up. If you are no longer able to maintain your zone, please let Council know and it will be deregistered and maintained by Council.

By maintaining designated no slash zones, landholders play a critical role in breaking the cycle of spread. These areas are identified to allow for more effective control methods, such as targeted herbicide application and careful monitoring. Respecting these zones helps protect clean areas, reduces reinfestation, and supports a coordinated, region‑wide approach to weed management.

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There has never been a better time to take lawn care seriously. Or at least, that is what the sheer range of mowers currently on offer would suggest.

From high-powered ride-ons to reliable push mowers and everything in between, the options available right now cover just about every yard, property and weekend warrior ambition imaginable. Whether it is a small suburban patch or a sprawling block, there is a machine built for the job.

Leading the charge are the zero turn models from Bushranger Power Equipment, designed to deliver precision, speed and a smoother mowing experience. These are the kind of machines that turn a chore into something far more satisfying.

The range also includes ride-on mowers from COX Mowers, a brand that has been building tough, reliable equipment for Australian conditions since the 1950s. They are built to last and designed to handle whatever the backyard throws at them.

For those looking for value and versatility, Husqvarna offers ride-on mowers starting from $4,199, along with a zero turn model currently on sale for $7,999. Trimmers, blowers and hedge trimmers are also available, making it easy to tackle every part of the yard.

And for the lawn enthusiasts, the Masport push mower range is now available with significant savings, offering dependable performance backed by a trusted dealer network.

The real challenge now is deciding which one suits your needs best. Because with this many quality options available, the only thing left to do is get out there and make the lawn look its best.

A powerful range of mowers is waiting for you in the showrooms of Ingham Motorcycle and Mowers. Photo supplied

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Letter to our Editor in Chief,

I was amazed to read in your edition published on December 16th, an item by Hinchinbrook Shire Council, reference pay it forward container collections.

Whilst the Local Government Act of Queensland legalises, what amounts to financial scamming of Ratepayers, I was shocked to see this admission within Councils article.

Whilst a lot of lip service is paid to transparency, honesty, open governance. It must be a first for a Shire Council to admit in print to scamming its ratepayers.

Almost refreshing to see such an admission.

The article explicitly states that a recycling facility is not yet in place. It’s something for the future. But for years our Council has forced on us the rental of recycle bins. Charged

Ratepayers for Recycle bin collections fortnightly, when in fact like many smaller shires all waste regardless of the bin lid colour goes to landfill including returnable containers.

Yes, the Local Government act permits this charging for recycled waste collection, when no recycling exists, and landfill is the only disposal option.

It’s no wonder Politicians are held in such low regard, when even at our local government level we are taken advantage of. Financially scammed.

If the cost of a single waste collection needs to be increased, so be it, do so. Not force a second pointless, optics only bin service on us.

Clearly all our returnable containers have gone to landfill and that is set to continue. It just means we will now no longer bother sorting our recyclables.

It can all go weekly into the Red Bin.

Bob Ford

Taylor Beach

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Dear Editor,

Thank you for publishing the letter regarding Council’s recent article on the Containers for Change Pay‑It‑Forward (PiF) stations from Bob Ford, Taylors Beach.

Council strongly rejects the assertion that it is “scamming” ratepayers.

Waste management services, including kerbside waste and recycling collections, are delivered in accordance with Queensland legislation and form part of the overall cost of managing waste responsibly for the community.

Contrary to the claims made, recyclable material placed in yellow‑lid kerbside bins is not sent to landfill.

Council’s kerbside collection vehicles are purpose‑built with two separate compartments, allowing general waste and recycling to be collected simultaneously while remaining fully separated.

All recyclable material collected from yellow‑lid bins is transported to a Materials Recovery Facility in Townsville, where it is sorted and processed for the recovery of recyclable materials.

General waste collected from red‑lid bins is transported separately for landfill disposal.

At no point are these waste streams combined.

Our ratepayers can watch this process during pick up by viewing it on our YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/DrTJkZmnhME?si=_y23766p8JmmeNKU

This collection system is widely used across Queensland and allows Council to operate efficiently by reducing fuel use, minimising vehicle movements, improving safety, and limiting costs for ratepayers, while still ensuring materials are managed appropriately.

The Pay‑It‑Forward stations referenced in Council’s article are a simple community initiative that encourages the recovery of eligible drink containers through Queensland’s Containers for Change program.

These stations help reduce litter and allow individuals or community groups to collect container refunds if they choose.

Council has also been transparent in acknowledging that additional recycling infrastructure is needed in the region. That is why Council is actively advocating for the development of a local recycling facility at Warrens Hill, which would improve local recycling capacity, increase resource recovery, and extend the operational life of the landfill.

Council remains committed to transparency, responsible waste management, and continual improvement of services for the Hinchinbrook community. Providing accurate information is essential to informed public discussion, and Council encourages residents with questions about waste and recycling services to seek clarification directly.

Mayor Ramon Jayo

Hinchinbrook Shire Council

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A $22.1 million investment will strengthen Mount Fox’s critical agricultural corridor and improve access to Australia’s tallest single‑drop waterfall.

Of this funding, $18.6 million is dedicated specifically to slope stabilisation and remediation works, addressing 35 landslip sites on Mount Fox Road and 30 sites on Wallaman Falls Road, which winds through Girringun National Park.

Works Soon To Begin For One Of The Region’s Premier Tourist Destinations

These projects are jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

A further $3.5 million from the Australian Government under the North Queensland Resilience Program will fund priority safety upgrades along 16 key sections of the Mount Fox Road corridor.

During periods of heavy rainfall, the ranges are particularly prone to landslips, often leading to road closures and restricted access throughout the wet season.

These disruptions significantly impact residents, local businesses, and tourists. Increased traffic from emerging energy precincts, combined with Defence Force use of the route to access training areas above the Mount Fox Range, further highlights the need for a safe and reliable road network.

Hinchinbrook Shire Council Mayor Ramon Jayo said the inspection findings have driven a targeted approach, prioritising works in locations with the highest risk to improve long‑term slope stability.

“The upgrades will also support reliable access to Wallaman Falls, one of the region’s premier tourist destinations, benefiting visitors, businesses, and the broader community,” Mayor Jayo said.

“They are equally critical for the Mt Fox area, where primary producers, emerging industries, and key economic activities rely on a safe and dependable road network.

“We’ve seen what severe weather can do. This investment is about addressing the damage and making these sections of road safer for the community and the industries that depend on them.”

Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa said the Hinchinbrook Shire Council’s commitment to ensuring these remediation works are carried out in a planned and safe manner will ensure the project’s longevity and success.

“The Crisafulli Government is proud to back this vital project alongside the Commonwealth, supporting lasting infrastructure that ensures access and strengthens resilience.”

“It’s important that we get this right, and I’ll be backing Council every step of the way as they deliver for our region.”

While construction was initially planned to begin earlier this year, the decision was made to wait until conditions were safer.

Construction is expected to begin from April 2026, subject to site conditions. Works will be staged where possible to maintain access, with completion anticipated later in 2027, weather permitting.

Further updates will be provided ahead of construction, including details about traffic management arrangements, as the project moves from planning into delivery by visiting  www.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au/water-waste-and-roads/roads-and-public-works/major-projects/mount-fox-road-and-wallaman-falls-road-remediation/

Caption: Targeted sites for Landslip and resilience projects have been outlined for both the Wallaman and Mount Fox roads. Image sourced: Hinchinbrook Shire Council

Caption: The view from the Wallaman Falls public viewing platform. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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Hiya Hinchinbrook, or should I say Airlie Beach? I was away from the region most of this week and working with our sister publications at the main office in the Whitsundays. What a beautiful place to work, but I tell you, I was glad to be away and back home after the noise from all the tourists.

And what a week to be away, I missed so much action! You can bet your sweet cane sugar I would have loved to participate in the One-Act Plays and gone to see the TYTO Gallery opening of the Androgyny exhibition, both of which were cancelled last year.

But it was important that I check in with head office, and touch base with all my teammates from all parts of the production line, from sales to design, we were all there getting to know each other and work together to bring you, our readers, the best newspaper and magazine we can.

I also celebrated a bit while I was down there, doing a few things with some old friends like snorkelling and jet skiing. I couldn't believe how huge some of the fish where and how close they would swim up to you. Jet skiing was a thrill; the speed and power and the airtime you get as you hop over the waves – an incredible experience - I absolutely want to do it again.

(Signature)

Fun fact: We met a huge living legend known to the tour guides as Gorgeous George, the Humpheaded Maori Wrasse. He crested the water a few times like a sea serpent of myth.

Caption: The Life Publishing team out for dinner in Airlie Beach.

Wilmar Sugar Australia has developed a 3D printed model of a crushing mill to support hands-on training for trades and operational employees working across its sugar factories.

The model is the first in a planned series designed to help workers better understand equipment components and key operational settings used within the milling process.

Wilmar’s design team began by creating a generic 3D model of a crushing mill using AutoCAD, ensuring it included all the necessary elements for training while remaining suitable for 3D printing.

A Townsville-based 3D printing company was then engaged to produce the final model.

The completed training tool features 75 individual parts connected using rare earth magnets, allowing it to be easily taken apart and reassembled. Despite being designed for repeated use in training environments, the model is also robust enough to withstand long-term handling.

The mill was printed using Polylactic Acid Plus, a plant-based material made from renewable resources including sugarcane.

Wilmar said the model is intended to improve practical learning by giving employees a clear, hands-on understanding of how mill components work together.

Following the success of the project, the company is now considering producing additional 3D printed models of other critical equipment used in sugar processing, including shredders and mud filters.

Design Draftsperson Paris Ogden and Cadet Draftsperson Grace Bach reassembling the printed mill at Pioneer Mill. Photo source: Wilmar Sugar Australia Limited

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