Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Two local women have been recognised with the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for their outstanding dedication to community service, with one working in nursing and the other in foster care. Both recipients have spent years quietly supporting others, giving their time, care and compassion to those in need without expectation of recognition. Their awards acknowledge a lifetime of service that has made a lasting impact across the community.
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Cassowary Coast Paws and Claws Inc has thanked the community for helping make the SavourLife Pet Adoption Day a huge success, with local generosity translating into much-needed support for animals in care. The volunteer-run not-for-profit animal shelter joined Pets Domain Innisfail on 30th May for the special event, bringing together pet lovers and supporters of animal welfare. A big thank you goes to everyone who purchased a bag of SavourLife pet food on the day. For every bag purchased, SavourLife donated an additional bag of food, helping double the impact of the community’s support. The shelter also extended its gratitude to Pets Domain Innisfail for hosting the event and welcoming the organisation into the store, as well as SavourLife for its generous contribution of dog and cat food. These donations will help provide essential supplies for animals awaiting their forever homes and support the ongoing work of Cassowary Coast Paws and Claws Inc. As a volunteer-run organisation, the shelter relies heavily on the kindness and generosity of the local community to continue caring for animals in need. The team said they were incredibly grateful for everyone who attended, donated and helped support the cause, proving that small acts of kindness can make a big difference for local pets. Caption: The Cassowary Coast Paws and Claws volunteers alongside the Pets Domain Innisfail team and the donated SavourLife pet food. Photo source: Cassowary Coast Paws and Claws Inc
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Finding the right vehicle close to home is important for local drivers, and FNQ Motor Group helps keep the process simple and accessible for customers across Tully, Innisfail and the wider Cassowary Coast region. With dealerships in Tully and Innisfail, FNQ Motor Group offers a wide range of new, demonstrator and pre-owned vehicles, along with finance options, servicing and parts support. The team understands the needs of regional drivers, from families searching for their next vehicle to locals needing a reliable work ute or a dependable run-around people mover for everyday life. With a focus on customer care and building long-term relationships, FNQ Motor Group has become a trusted name for drivers throughout the region. Whether you are upgrading, searching for your first vehicle or keeping your current car running smoothly, the team is ready to assist with local knowledge and a broad range of options. The dealerships regularly carry a diverse selection of vehicles to suit different lifestyles, including practical family cars, capable SUVs, work vehicles and models designed for weekend adventures. With a changing range of stock available, customers can explore options that match their needs, budget and driving habits. The FNQ Motor team can also help customers compare models, arrange test drives and find a vehicle that suits their day-to-day requirements. From busy family schedules to rural driving conditions, FNQ Motor Group understands what local motorists need. Supporting communities from Tully through to Innisfail, FNQ Motor Group continues to provide motorists with convenient access to quality vehicles and professional service close to home.
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We were thrilled to see locals picking up a copy of our first edition of Cassowary Life. Pictured are our very first readers – two lovely gentlemen from the men’s shed in Tully Thanks for the warm welcome, Cassowary Coast!
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Lawrence Molachino receives recognition with an Order of Australia Medal. Photo supplied
After decades of quietly giving his time to the Hinchinbrook community, Lawrence Molachino has been recognised with an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) for his service.
Lawrence was announced as a recipient in the King’s Birthday Honours List, acknowledging his long-standing commitment to community organisations, volunteering and helping others.
His involvement began early, becoming the inaugural President of the Rotaract Club of Ingham in 1969, before later joining Rotary.
One of his longest commitments was with the Ingham Show Society, where he served on the committee from 1986 to 2021, including as Secretary from 1986 to 2004 and President from 2005 to 2008. He was later made a Life Member in recognition of his contribution.
Lawrence has also served the community as a real estate agent, Justice of the Peace since 1966, Hinchinbrook Shire Councillor from 2004 to 2016, Treasurer of the Ingham Bowls Club and a member of the Lucinda Progress Association.
Despite the recognition, Lawrence said the award came as a surprise and he felt very humbled by it.
“[I felt] Embarrassed, I guess. Embarrassed and surprised,” he said.
“We just do these things because we want to do them, and we love to help people out. That’s about where it was. I was very surprised.”
Lawrence said volunteering was never about receiving recognition.
“It’s just a great thank you for what you’ve done. None of us do it for the accolades, it’s something we love to do for the community,” he said.
Looking back, Lawrence said his involvement grew naturally from wanting to help where he could.
“It’s just part of me. From day one, I’ve always liked to do things for people if I could, and it just went on from there.”
While he did not always realise how much time he was dedicating, Lawrence said reflecting on his journey showed just how much he had contributed.
“You don’t realise how much time you put into these things because you just go out and do what you enjoy.”
For Lawrence, every role has been rewarding, whether it was supporting a major community event or helping an individual through his work as a Justice of the Peace.
“I think my involvement with the Ingham Show was probably the catalyst where it all started,” he said.
“It’s good to see it go ahead in leaps and bounds. You put a lot of time in, but you also see the youngsters and people turn up to enjoy the show, and that gives you satisfaction.”
Lawrence said one of the highlights of his time with the Show Society was the people he worked alongside.
“They’re all volunteers, and they’re a marvellous group. They deserve medals too because they put a lot of time in.”
He believes the strength of the Hinchinbrook community comes from the people who live here.
“It’s just a nice group. People are very friendly. You walk down the street, say good morning, and if you need assistance, it’s there for you.”
Lawrence also credits his wife Marlene for always supporting his community involvement.
“She’s always been behind me. If I want to go and do something, she says, ‘Go and do it, enjoy doing it.’ She backs me up, so I need to give her half the medal.”
While Lawrence has achieved a great deal, he remains involved today as a Life Member of the Ingham Show Association, a Justice of the Peace and through his ongoing work.
He hopes the community continues to look out for those who may need a little extra support, including older residents who may not have family nearby.
“It’s nice to just go up and say good day and have a visit, even for five minutes. People appreciate it.”
Reflecting on receiving the OAM, Lawrence said it was a fitting conclusion to a lifetime of service.
“It’s been a good journey, and this tops it off. I never thought this would come to me, but now it’s here, I’ll grab it with both hands and say thank you on behalf of all the other volunteers around the place.”
17-year-old Esther Rose McCaul was airlifted to Townsville University Hospital after being involved in a multi-car crash at the Gairloch S-bend at Bemerside.
17-year-old Esther-Rose McCaul has been identified as one of the victims of a multi-vehicle crash which occurred at the Gairloch S-bend at Bemerside on the morning of June 10th.
Authorities confirmed that Esther-Rose was airlifted to Townsville University Hospital in a serious but stable condition and has since received surgery for her injuries.
The crash is believed to have occurred when a Holden Commodore Ute driven by a male lost control and left the road. A Nissan Patrol collided with Esther-Rose’s Honda Civic when attempting to avoid the Ute.
The Honda left the highway and hit a power pole.
Two additional patients were also tended to at the scene, and transported by road to Ingham Hospital in a stable condition with minor injuries.
The male in the Holden Commodore is reported to have left the scene and appeals have since been made to track down the driver.
Outpourings of well wishes have been delivered to Esther-Rose who is a young artist and active community member, having won the Youth Award at the Hinchinbrook Shire Council Birdlife Art Awards in 2025 for her painting Black Cockatoo.
Tamara Chatfield, Vinnies Ingham Retail Operations Manager with Diane Guandalini, volunteer and Shift Supervisor at the re-opening of the Ingham store. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
The doors have reopened at Vinnies Ingham, with the community welcoming back the much-loved op shop after its recent refurbishment.
Retail Operations Manager Tamara Chatfield said the reopening was an exciting moment for both the community and volunteers.
“It feels amazing. The community really needed it, and the volunteers really wanted to get back to work,” Tamara said.
The store’s new layout has been several weeks in the making, with volunteers and staff working behind the scenes to prepare the space.
“Four weeks we’ve been here preparing now, so four weeks to get it up ready to go, and it looks amazing,” Tamara said.
The refreshed store features a more organised layout, making it easier for customers to browse and find what they need.
“Everything is in its place, and it’s labelled.” Tamara said.
Volunteer and shift supervisor Diane Guandalini said more stock and sections would continue to become available as the store settles back in.
“We have got more range to come through. It’s early days yet,” Diane said.
The store is now accepting donations from the community.
“Bring them in, we’ve opened the floodgates,” Tamara said.
The reopening has been warmly welcomed by locals, with the refurbished Vinnies once again becoming a popular stop for shoppers and bargain hunters.
The return of Vinnies comes as Ingham residents continue to embrace the return of local op shop options, with anticipation also building for the upcoming opening of a Salvation Army (“Salvos”) store on the main street.
The refurbishment follows repairs after the February 2025 weather event, with the community pleased to see the store doors open once again.
The community Celebrates Feast of St Anthony at Bemerside Chapel. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
For almost a century, the Feast of Saint Anthony has brought the Bemerside community together in celebration, faith and friendship. On Sunday, 14th June, locals gathered around St Anthony’s Chapel for the 99th annual celebration of a much-loved tradition that continues to connect generations.
Families and friends enjoyed a day filled with laughter, great food and community spirit, with barbecues, cannolis, raffles, live music and plenty of entertainment for all ages.
As the milestone 100th celebration approaches in 2027, preparations are already underway to honour the history and legacy of this special community event.
On Sunday 14th of June the community gathered on the grounds around the St Anthony’s Chapel in Bemerside parish to enjoy the 99th celebration of the Feast of Saint Anthony.
The community enjoyed raffles, a sizzling barbeque and golden fish and chips. Children bounced on the jumping castle and everyone tucked into a scrumptious cannoli or two.
Next year will be the centenary celebration and there are already plans in the works to make 2027’s Feast of Saint Anthony bigger than ever before.
For more than five decades, Reeds Betta has been helping North Queensland families create comfortable, functional homes with quality appliances, furniture and expert advice.
Established by the Reed family in 1969, the business remains proudly family-owned and operated, with third-generation owner Raymond Reed continuing the tradition of personalised service across the Tully and Innisfail communities.
Located on Butler Street in Tully, Reeds Betta has become a trusted destination for whitegoods, home appliances, furniture and technology products. Customers can browse a wide range of leading brands across refrigeration, cooking, laundry, televisions, laptops and small appliances, all backed by local knowledge and friendly service.
Now is an especially good time to visit, with the store's End of Financial Year Sale offering discounts of up to 50 per cent on a great range of products until 30th June 2026.
Whether you're replacing an ageing fridge, upgrading your laundry, purchasing a new television or refreshing your home with quality furniture, the EOFY sale presents an opportunity to secure significant savings while supporting a local family business.
As a local Jaycar Authorised Reseller, the store also stocks a range of electronics and technology products, stocking tools and parts to keep your projects up and running, providing customers with even more choice under one roof.
With expert advice, trusted service, price matching on leading brands and substantial EOFY savings available now, Reeds Betta Tully continues to prove why shopping local is always a better deal.
As the end of the financial year approaches, many businesses are looking for ways to improve productivity, refresh their workspaces and prepare for the year ahead. For organisations across the Cassowary Coast and Hinchinbrook regions, Tully Office Supplies is helping make those upgrades easier than ever.
As Northern Queensland's largest Office National dealer, Tully Office Supplies has built a strong reputation for supplying everything businesses need to stay organised, efficient and well-equipped. From everyday stationery and office essentials to furniture, technology accessories and workplace consumables, the locally operated business offers a comprehensive one-stop solution.
The team supplies a diverse range of customers, including offices, schools, healthcare facilities, caravan parks and accommodation providers. Their extensive product range includes office furniture, computer accessories, cables and adaptors, cleaning products, bulk toilet paper and hand towels, as well as BioPak eco-friendly food packaging solutions.
With EOFY now underway, businesses may have an opportunity to invest in new office furniture, workstations, storage solutions and workplace equipment.
Tully Office Supplies encourages customers to seek independent financial advice or consult their accountant regarding eligibility, while taking advantage of EOFY opportunities to create more productive and comfortable workplaces.
Convenience remains a key focus for the business, with an easy-to-use online ordering platform, competitive pricing, reliable delivery and personalised customer service helping customers throughout the region.
Whether you're replacing ageing equipment, upgrading office furniture or stocking up on workplace essentials, Tully Office Supplies continues to provide local businesses with the products, advice and support needed to keep operations running smoothly.
Little Joe is now safely in the hands of a wildlife carer. Photo credit Terrain NRM
A tiny joey has been given a second chance thanks to the quick actions of Terrain NRM team member Tamsin McLeish, who discovered the little wallaby while travelling home from Etty Bay.
Tamsin came across a wallaby that had been hit on the road and stopped to safely move the animal and check whether there was a joey in the pouch.
“When I rolled her over, I saw two tiny paws and a tail poking out and then some movement. I panicked! I’d never rescued a joey before and had no idea if it was injured,” Tamsin said.
With no phone available to contact wildlife rescuers, Tamsin turned on her hazard lights and waited for another driver to come by and assist.
Thankfully, help arrived within minutes. Using a flashlight, Tamsin was able to carefully remove the joey, later named Joe, from its mother’s pouch and place him into a fabric bag to provide comfort and help mimic the safety of a pouch.
Tamsin contacted The Agile Project – Wildlife Rescue, who connected her with a Mission Beach wildlife carer. Despite the late hour, a carer was able to take Joe in.
After driving the joey to his new carers, Tamsin was told Joe was lucky and had no injuries.
The carers have continued to provide updates and photos as Joe begins his recovery.
L-R: Susan Kelly, Alicia Roelefs, Nannette Gledhill, Kerry Clow, Peta Abela, Christine Blair, Yolanda Jenkins, Britney Anastasi. Photo supplied
The Cassowary Coast Business Women’s Network recently held its Annual General Meeting and are excited to introduce their new Executive Team.
Kerry Clow returns as President for the third year with Britney Anastasi returning as Treasurer and Peta Abela as Committee Member.
The dynamic group also welcome new members, Alicia Roelofs as Vice President, Yolanda Jenkins as Secretary and Nanette Gledhill and Christine Blair as new Committee Members. The CCBWN has also engaged the professional services of Susan Kelly as their Digital Communications Support.
The CCBWN continues to grow with current membership sitting at 79, a growth of almost 50 just in the last year.
“It is exciting to see this growth and the diversity of businesses covering areas of retail, trade, professional, legal and financial services, banks, real estate, tourism, health & wellbeing, agriculture, Government Services and the Cassowary Coast Regional Council,” said President Kerry Clow.
“We note that new businesses moving into the Cassowary Coast see value in joining the CCBWN to make connections and give exposure to their businesses.
“We also have attracted women who may not run a business, may be retired or see this group as a genuine way to still make a contribution and meet other professional women.
“Our Vision is to connect, empower and celebrate women involved in business across the Cassowary Coast. We aim to support businesses and initiatives, personal and professional learning and development, provide a regional representative voice to local and state organisations, facilitate networking and enable social connection.
“We are exciting about an upcoming event planned for 20 August 2026 to be held at the Mission Beach Village Green to showcase Cassowary Coast businesses in a lively festival style evening shopping and dining experience. If you want to know more check out this event on the CCBWN website, www.ccbwn.org.au.”
Photo credit: Innisfail State College
Innisfail State College has recognised the dedication and bravery of local first responders as part of Thank A First Responder Day.
On Wednesday, 10th June, Student Council leaders invited representatives from emergency service organisations across the region to the college for a special morning tea.
Representatives from Ambulance, Police, SES, Fire, Surf Life Saving, Hospital services and Coast Guard attended the event, which was prepared and presented by the college’s Hospitality staff and students.
College Captains Lochlan and Jara delivered an address and presented Certificates of Appreciation to each organisation, acknowledging the vital role frontline workers play in keeping the community safe.
The morning provided an opportunity for students, staff and emergency service representatives to come together and show gratitude for the work carried out every day.
First responders are often among the first people on scene during emergencies, providing assistance during incidents including road accidents, floods, fires, water rescues and search and rescue operations.
The day also recognised the many volunteers who stand alongside professional emergency services, giving their time to support and protect others.
Innisfail State College thanked all frontline heroes for their ongoing commitment and the difference they make throughout the community.
Terrain NRM is supporting farmers across the Wet Tropics. Agro-ecologist David Hardwick shown facilitating a soil health workshop, 2023. Photo credit: Terrain NRM
The State Government is providing $2 million to Terrain Natural Resource Management Group to support the grazing, sugarcane and banana sectors in the Cassowary Coast Local Government Area.
The funding will allow Terrain NRM to provide landholders with practical tools and on-ground support to improve soil resilience, riparian vegetation, and land and streambank conditions.
The funding forms part of the State Government's $117.84 million Natural Resource Management Expansion Program.
Regional Natural Resource Management groups are being supported to deliver targeted, practical initiatives that improve and restore areas essential to safeguarding Queensland's natural assets.
Minister for Natural Resources and Mines, Minister for Regional and Rural Development Dale Last said the funding for Terrain Natural Resource Management group would support farmers to deliver improved agricultural and landscape management practices.
“Local landholders have been subject to extreme weather events in recent years, and this program will fund on-ground initiatives to improve farm resilience and soil and land conditions,” Minister Last said.
“We recognise the importance of local stewardship and this funding will empower landholders to build stronger farms and more resilient communities because they know how to do it best.
Terrain NRM CEO Stewart Christie said this program would future-proof the Cassowary Coast’s key industries through real engagement with landholders.
“The Cassowary Coast is a powerhouse for industries such as sugarcane, grazing and bananas, but it is also one of the regions most exposed to extreme weather,” Ms Christie said.
“We’ve seen firsthand the toll repeated severe weather events have taken on farms and farming families.
“This project is supporting landholders with practical tools, knowledge and on-ground support to recover, adapt and build resilience, so they can continue producing now and into the future.”
NRM Regions Queensland CEO Chris Norman said the NRM Expansion Program would not only leave a lasting impact on Queensland’s iconic landscapes but create jobs and boost local economies.
“We’re proud to be working alongside the Queensland Government and our regional NRM organisations to deliver big outcomes for people and for place through the Natural Resource Management Expansion Program,” Mr Norman said.
Three osprey chicks have hatched at Mission Beach after their nest famously delayed mobile tower upgrade works, and now the community is being invited to help choose their names. Photo credit: Mick Proctor
A family of ospreys that captured the attention of the Cassowary Coast community is celebrating the arrival of three fluffy chicks, who recently hatched at Mission Beach.
The ospreys first made headlines last month when their nest temporarily delayed planned upgrades to a Telstra mobile tower. Rather than disturb the nesting birds, works were postponed, allowing the eggs to hatch safely.
Now, Cassowary Coast Regional Council is inviting the community to help choose names for the three healthy chicks via Council’s Facebook page.
Residents are being encouraged to submit themed trios of names, with suggestions ranging from famous characters and iconic duos-turned-trios to names inspired by the local area.
The most popular entries will progress to a community vote.
The story has become a heartwarming reminder that sometimes progress can wait while nature takes centre stage.
A marine radio course will be available soon with the QF14 Coast Guard. Photo supplied
Lucinda Coast Guard will host a Marine Radio VHF Operator’s Certificate of Proficiency Course at its Patterson Parade base in Lucinda on Saturday 25th July and Sunday 26th July.
The course has been subsidised thanks to a donation from Hinchinbrook Shire Council, with participants able to complete the training for $50.
Saturday will focus on theory, while Sunday will cover practical radio operation.
Bookings are required, with interested participants able to contact Rex on 0439 079 922.
Boat owners are reminded that anyone operating a marine radio must hold a Marine Radio Operator’s Certificate of Proficiency.
Maritime Safety Queensland and Water Police can issue an on-the-spot fine of $330 for operating a marine radio without the required qualification. If the matter is taken to court, the maximum fine can increase to $3,960.
Completing the course helps ensure boaties can communicate effectively and stay safe on the water.
The rescued vessel under tow. Photo supplied
A fishing trip to Bramble Reef turned into a rescue mission last Thursday morning when four men experienced fuel line issues on their return journey.
The vessel’s motor failed approximately 10 nautical miles north-east of the end of the sugar conveyor belt, leaving the group anchored offshore and needing assistance. The crew contacted Lucinda Coast Guard, with volunteers quickly organising a response mission.
Due to a rapidly dropping tide and limited water over the sandbar, the larger vessel could not be used, so the smaller RHIB vessel “JJ” was deployed to reach the stranded boat.
The Coast Guard crew located the vessel, attached a tow line, and safely returned the four men and their boat to Dungeness. Conditions were challenging, with strong south-westerly winds creating a rough cross-swell and white-caps during the trip out and the return tow.
The successful rescue highlights the importance of marine safety preparation and having reliable communication equipment while on the water.
(Contributed with thanks by Steve Whipps, commander of the QF14 Coast Guard)
The survey will be conducted looking for pest such as the African tulip, a relatively common weed in urban areas, near houses and along creek lines and waterways in the Hinchinbrook shire. Dense infestations occur in some locations including Tyto Wetlands. Photos sourced: Department of Agriculture and Fisheries
Hinchinbrook Shire Council advises that an aerial survey will be conducted along the Herbert River on Friday, 19th June 2026, between 6:30am and 2:30pm.
The purpose of the survey is to identify and monitor priority weed species as outlined in the Hinchinbrook Local Government Area Biosecurity Plan (HLGABP).
The HLGABP provides a strategic framework for the management of priority weeds and pest animals across all land tenures within the Hinchinbrook region.
Mangroves provide stability against land erosion and storm surges. Photo sourced: Australian Environmental Education
Hinchinbrook Shire Council, in conjunction with the Department of Primary Industries (DPI), advises that mangrove trimming will occur between Friday 26th June and Monday 13th July 2026 within the permitted area on Council’s reserve adjacent to John Dory Street, Taylors Beach.
This trimming is only permitted adjacent to properties 56 to 68 John Dory Street under a unique historical arrangement and is the only permit of its kind in Queensland.
Only persons authorised by Council may undertake trimming within the designated area.
Unauthorised removal or damage of mangroves or other marine plants outside the permitted area is prohibited and may be reported to DPI.
Council appreciates the community’s cooperation in protecting this culturally and environmentally significant area.
Visit: www.qld.gov.au/recreation/activities/boating-fishing/rec-fishing/reporting or call the DPI on 1800 900 090 for more information or to report suspicious activity.
Alternatively email council@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au or call Council’s customer service centre on (07) 4776 4600.
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