The Lower Herbert Lions Club recently received a generous donation from Thread Together, collecting a selection of festive Christmas bon bons, just in time for the Christmas season!

Thread Together has supported the Hinchinbrook Shire several times in the past, donating new clothes to those in need within the community and beyond. Run by a group of passionate individuals who believe in making a real change in the world, Thread Together works to divert brand-new, unsold clothes destined for landfill into the hands of those who need them most.

Michael from the Lower Herbert Lions Club excitedly received the donation a couple of weeks ago at the Queensland Country Women’s Club (QCWA) Halifax Branch, noting they’ll certainly go to good use! The Lions Club plans to use the gift at this year’s wonderful Christmas Luncheon, an annually celebrated extravaganza hosted for the seniors of the Hinchinbrook Shire.

Usually hosted towards the end of November or in the early days of December, the Lower Herbert Halifax Lions Club Seniors’ Christmas Luncheon continues to bring the community together for a fabulous day of socialisation, festive fun and a delicious barbecue spread. Check up on the Lower Herbert Halifax Lions Club’s socials, call 0429 383 405 or email lowerherberthalifaxlionsclub@gmail.com to be the first to know when the date for 2025’s Christmas Luncheon drops!

Hello Hinchinbrook!

Exciting news – it’s our birthday month! And to celebrate a whole year of Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper, you’ll notice the paper looks a little different this week – we’ve rebranded!

For the past five years, Life newspapers have shared the same masthead, so we thought it was time for a fresh, modern look. We hope you love it as much as we do.

We’ve moved away from the traditional red, black, and white, and embraced a vibrant green–blue gradient – a nod to our stunning natural surrounds and the Great Barrier Reef, which runs the full length of our coastline and connects our four Life Publishing newspapers.

Hinchinbrook is the first to roll out the new look, so the paper you’re holding is the very first of its kind!

As we celebrate our first birthday, I’d like to extend a huge thank you to everyone who has supported us over the past year – our loyal readers, valued advertisers, Council, Chamber, and community groups. Your ongoing support keeps local print news alive, and we’re so proud to continue delivering free, independent news to the region every week.

A special thank you to our wonderful team – to Daniel Heggie, our first journalist on the ground, and Victoria Velton, who has since taken up the role with great enthusiasm - thank you for welcoming them both into the community. Our local Sales Manager Sherie Hensler-Adams has also been instrumental in reviving strong print advertising in the region, bringing with her eight years of experience from the Herbert River Express, she is the fountain of industry knowledge.

And, of course, thank you to our incredible design, production, and office teams who work tirelessly behind the scenes to bring each edition to life.

Here’s to a bright new look and another great year ahead!

Rach

Quote of the Week: "You cannot get through a single day without having an impact on the world around you. What you do makes a difference and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make" (Jane Goodall)

Gilroy Santa Maria College marked a remarkable milestone on Wednesday, 30 October 2025, celebrating 75 years of education, faith, and community with a morning of reflection and festivity.

Originally planned for last year but postponed due to severe weather, the long-awaited celebration brought together current and former students, staff, clergy, and community members to honour the College’s proud history and enduring legacy.

The morning commenced with a liturgy led by Bishop Tim Harris of the Catholic Diocese of Townsville, setting a reverent tone for the occasion. Parish Priest Father John Kunnathumadappallil and Father Sylvester Emetuche from the Catholic Diocese of  Townsville joined the ceremony, sharing in the blessings and prayers of the ceremonial mass.

Among the many attendees was Bob Mitting, known affectionately as the “Barefoot Gilroy Boy”, who, along with several long-time past students, travelled from near and far to take part in the celebrations. Guests enjoyed guided tours of the College grounds, revisiting familiar spaces and exploring the many changes that have taken place over the decades.

Inside the hall, displays of memorabilia, including vintage uniforms, old textbooks, alongside club and class photos, stirred fond memories and conversation, capturing the spirit of 75 years of growth and connection.

The event provided an opportunity to celebrate the generations who have shaped Gilroy Santa Maria College into the vibrant learning community it is today, while also looking forward to the College’s future with pride and great optimism.

On Monday, 11 November, the Hinchinbrook community will pause to honour Remembrance Day, a time to reflect on the courage, sacrifice, and enduring spirit of those who have served in defence of our nation. Across the region, residents will gather at memorials and cenotaphs to pay tribute to the men and women who gave their lives for the freedoms we cherish today.

At 11:00am, a minute’s silence will be observed. This solemn tradition unites communities across Australia and around the world in a shared act of remembrance and gratitude.

Local RSL branches, schools, and community groups will hold services throughout Hinchinbrook, with wreaths laid in honour of the fallen and words of reflection shared by veterans and youth representatives alike. The Ingham and Cardwell RSL Sub-Branches will host the main services at the Ingham and Cardwell Cenotaphs, welcoming all residents and visitors to attend and pay their respects.

Remembrance Day is not only about looking back, but also about recognising those who continue to serve in the Australian Defence Force and in peacekeeping roles around the globe. Their dedication and courage carry forward the same spirit of service that has defined our armed forces for more than a century.

Community members are encouraged to wear a red poppy — the enduring symbol of remembrance — and to take a moment, wherever they are, to reflect on the meaning of sacrifice, service, and peace.

WHAT: Remembrance Day Service
WHEN: 10:45am for a 11:00am start, Monday, 11 November 2025
WHERE: Ingham & Cardwell Cenotaph and local memorials across the Hinchinbrook region

At the Cardwell RSL Sub-Branch, volunteers are the heart of the organisation, and George Murray exemplifies this dedication. In the centre of the photo, George proudly holds his 30 Years RSL Service Award,  a recognition given for not less than 30 years of cumulative service as a member of an RSL Sub-Branch, in accordance with Queensland State By-Laws.

George was very surprised to receive his 30 years continuous RSL Service Award. A member of the RSL since the 1960s, he has always enjoyed the camaraderie the organisation offers. A Vietnam War veteran, George is a tireless worker for the Cardwell RSL Sub Branch, contributing in many ways, including whipper-snipping around the grounds.

His commitment and hard work have helped make the Cardwell RSL the successful venue it is today. It’s volunteers like George that any organisation would be proud to have.

The Hinchinbrook Festival of Events is entering week 3 of the event calendar, and the organisers are extremely pleased with the attendance and participation at the many events and celebrations delivered to date.

The overwhelming and ongoing support from the local and visitor community has exceeded the organisers' expectations. Data recorded to date from each event indicates the majority of the ticketed events have been sell-outs, with the “free to enter” events exceeding previous attendance numbers.

As the calendar continues to roll around, the next major event within the “Hinchinbrook Festival of Events” calendar is the NQIB Country Cups Challenge Qualifier - Hinchinbrook Cup Race Day on the 15th November at the Ingham Race Course!

This event promises a full day of horse racing, fashion, and socialising that will not disappoint! Being a family-friendly event, a day of exciting trackside entertainment for the whole family is assured.

Gates open at 11:00am on Saturday morning, with five local races. Local and southern bookmakers and Sky Racing are onsite for those who want to have a flutter. Live music and a DJ will entertain the crowd, with a bar and canteen open to keep the revellers fed and thirst-quenched.

The spectacular “Fashions on the Field” is always a highly contested event and children’s amusements provide entertainment for the younger audience. This year, there is a new fashion category - “Living the Hinchinbrook Way – 4850” - which will add another interesting aspect to the fashions. So get ready to enjoy a day at the races, Hinchinbrook style!

Pre-purchase Adult Entry Tickets ($15 each) and Tables ($60 per table – seats 10) online. With kids 0-14 years being free, and teens 14-17 years only available at the gate on race day.

For more information, or to purchase Entry Tickets and/or Tables, visit https://hinchinbrookchamber.com.au/hinchinbrook-cup-race-day-family-event/

https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1477098

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Gawara Baya, meaning “Wind Song” in the language of the Gugu Badhun People, is reshaping the future of Hinchinbrook and Charters Towers with clean energy, local jobs and community investment.

Located near Mount Fox on a cattle property with more than a century of agricultural history, the project will sit alongside ongoing farming operations. Led by Australian renewable energy company Windlab, Gawara Baya will produce around 400 megawatts of clean electricity, supporting Queensland’s shift to a cleaner, more reliable energy mix and regional energy security.

The project’s strength has been recognised nationally, selected as one of just 20 in the Capacity Investment Scheme, putting the region firmly on the map as part of Australia’s clean energy transition.

Local jobs and business opportunities
Construction will create more than 300 direct jobs in trades, logistics, environment, catering and equipment services. Windlab is working with contractors who are committed to local hiring and procurement, with targets including:
· 10% of labour hours from workers within 160km of the site
· 50% of labour hours from Queensland residents

Local businesses are encouraged to register interest across civil works, quarry supply, equipment hire, fencing, fuel and water, traffic management, cleaning, catering and more.

Training the next generation
Windlab is focused on building local careers in clean energy through hands-on learning.

The company is working with training providers, Construction Skills Queensland, and local schools to offer exposure to career pathways in construction, engineering and environmental science. Windlab has supported regional initiatives like Link2Country, the Find Your Futures Expo, the Velocity Raptors team representing Australia at the Hydrogen Powered Grand Prix (H2GP) World Championships, the Hinchinbrook Birdlife Awards and the Maraka Festival, encouraging locals to explore careers in the growing renewables sector.

Apprenticeships, site visits and training opportunities are all being explored for young people across the region.

Designed with community and environment in mind
Extensive consultation with landowners, Mount Fox locals, environmental specialists and Traditional Owners has shaped the project over four years.

More than 8,000 hours of ecological studies guided turbine placement and informed Australia’s first biodiversity net-gain strategy for renewable energy, a 20-year commitment to restoring habitat, protecting species and delivering measurable environmental improvements.

Respecting Country and culture
Windlab and the Gugu Badhun Aboriginal Corporation have formed a long-term partnership to ensure the project respects Country, community priorities and cultural heritage. The Indigenous Land Use Agreement supports cultural management, employment and training pathways, and the inclusion of Gugu Badhun culture throughout the project.

Backing local communities
Windlab will launch a $200,000 annual Community Benefit Fund, shared between the Hinchinbrook and Charters Towers regions. Local groups, individuals and councils will be encouraged to apply for funding to support initiatives with lasting regional value.

Windlab has already contributed to local events, including the Ingham Industry Breakfast and the Find Your Futures Expo.

Planning for roads and transport
Construction traffic will primarily travel via the Port of Townsville and Charters Towers, prioritising State-controlled roads to reduce impacts on residential areas. Windlab will continue working closely with councils and the community to support safe road access.

How to get involved
With construction expected to begin next year, now is the time for local businesses to connect. Industry Networking Sessions will be held:
· Tuesday 11 November — Ingham
· Wednesday 12 November — Charters Towers

Come along to learn, ask questions and explore ways to participate. More details at www.gawarabaya.com or join the mailing list: gawarabaya@windlab.com

WHAT: Industry Networking Ingham Session
WHEN: 4:00pm-6:00pm, Tuesday 11th November 2025
WHERE: Royal Hotel - Front Bar, 44-46 Lannercost St, Ingham
RSVP: Via the QR Code or Hinchinbrooktickets.com.au

As our district is very quickly moving toward the end of the sugar cane harvest season, followed soon after by senior school graduations, the school year coming to an end, and Christmas preparation planning occurring, it is a great time to reflect on how far we have come in this extremely busy and challenging year.

It is hard to fathom how quickly our busy lives change, yet at the same time, so many things remain a constant.  2025 has certainly presented some challenges to the broader Hinchinbrook community, however, this year has also seen some new and exciting opportunities emerge in the Shire.  Early assessments of this year’s sugar cane crop have very pleasantly seen the harvest to date returning a crop number closer to what had been achieved in more recent years, which has assisted in bridging the anticipated economic impact that could have more significantly affected our community.

The 28 actions identified in the 2025 Hinchinbrook Recovery Plan, developed following the February 2025 event, continue to see support services delivered, follow-up continues with building and insurance repairs, grant opportunity assistance and progressing plans for longer term actions to be implemented. Community Recovery Offices continue to work across the Shire, with a reminder to residents, should they still require assistance, to reach out to either Council or the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre.

Even though our community has seen its share of challenges in 2025, we have also witnessed new and exciting opportunities realised this year, that will continue to progress and grow the Hinchinbrook community. The approval and development of commercial and residential projects in the Shire this year is another demonstration of the resilience, vision and confidence being actioned locally, that reminds us all exactly how irrepressibly strong our residents are and how “getting on with the job” is a true demonstration of living “The Hinchinbrook Way”.

The Mayor’s Christmas Appeal is now underway, and I encourage the community to support local families doing it tough.

The appeal is a practical way we can come together to support those doing it tough and ensure that no one is left behind during the festive season.

Residents can contribute by donating a new toy or non-perishable food item.

Donations can be placed under the Christmas tree at Council’s Customer Service Centre, located at 25 Lannercost Street, Ingham, during business hours.

All funds raised will be directed to the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre, a local organisation that plays a vital role in supporting vulnerable individuals and families across our region.

The centre provides emergency relief, food assistance, counselling, and referral services, and has been instrumental in helping residents rebuild after recent disasters.

I thank the staff and volunteers for their ongoing dedication and commitment to our community.

The appeal closes at 5:00pm on Wednesday, 10th of December 2025, allowing time for sorting and delivery before Christmas.

I acknowledge that this year has been challenging for many.

The impacts of natural disasters, economic pressures, and personal circumstances have tested our resilience.

In times like these, it’s important we exercise patience with one another and continue to show the generosity that defines our community.

Hinchinbrook has always been a giving region.

I’ve seen firsthand how our residents step up to support each other, and I’m confident we’ll do so again this Christmas.

Thank you to everyone who has already contributed, and to those planning to do so.

Your support makes a real difference.

Contact Council’s Customer Service Centre on 4776 4600 or email council@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au for more information.

Here’s a fact to make your GPS blink twice: Lucinda’s sugar-loading jetty stretches nearly six kilometres — that’s longer than Sydney’s Harbour Bridge … four times over! This engineering marvel funnels sweet Hinchinbrook sugar to waiting ships, floating far out over the Coral Sea.

On the right day, it disappears into the horizon like a mirage. While the jetty itself is off-limits to the public, nearby Lucinda Beach offers the perfect vantage point. Locals joke it’s the “jetty that goes to Fiji,” but it’s also a quiet reminder that industry and paradise can coexist.

Pack a camera and head north at sunset — when golden light hits the metal spine, it glows like a sugar thread stretching across the ocean.

Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR) is calling for transparency in the cane audit system and the continuation of the overdue review of the Cane Analysis Program (CAP).

QCAR Herbert District Committee Deputy Chair Matthew Pappin said exclusionary and anti-competitive practices had crept into the CAP document that governed cane testing in the Herbert district.

This is contrary to a misleading article published in the Hinchinbrook Life on 28 October and submitted by Herbert River District Cane Growers (HRDCG).

QCAR Herbert, Burdekin and Central region representatives visited the Burdekin Cane Audit Services (BCAS)
laboratory at Wilmar Invicta Mill on Monday, 27 October to review operations.

BCAS is a private industry company funded by millers and growers equally and is independently managed by a Board of Directors.

“It was eye-opening to see how open and transparent the cane audit services in the Burdekin are when compared to the Herbert,” he said.

In late 2024, a review of the CAP commenced in response to QCAR identifying the exclusion clauses and anti-competitive practices that had crept into the Herbert document and that the review of the document was well overdue.

QCAR representatives met with the Independent Sugarcane Analysist to review the operations in late 2023.

It came as a big surprise when the Independent Sugarcane Auditor informed QCAR representatives that the Cane
Audit Program for the Herbert had instructions that only Herbert River District Canegrowers (HRDCG) members would be sampled for fibre, unless ‘the Growers’ Bargaining Representative Group represents more than 11% of Cane Delivery Tonnes’. - (source document-CAS:2017).

CCS in the Herbert River district is calculated using a district average fibre level to calculate a grower’s CCS and ultimately their cane payment. Sampling should be conducted on a true random basis by the Independent Sugarcane Auditor.

QCAR Herbert District Committee Chair John Board said it required a unanimous vote by industry bodies to make any changes to the CAP to remove the anti-competitive clauses. The CAP review is now being stalled by one group.

“It’s time now for HRDCG to fall into line and allow all growers’ cane to be sampled for fibre - this is the right thing to do,” Mr Board said.

QCAR/ACL/HCQR grower collectives have united to get over the 11% threshold for fibre in 2025/2026; however,  growers on individual contracts and mill cane are still being excluded.

QCAR is seeking the BCAS model to be replicated in all Wilmar regions, ensuring strong governance and procedures for the industry to adhere to.

“It’s time for open, transparent cane audit processes that are of a high quality and standard to be reinstated in the Herbert, while ensuring all sectors of the industry are being financially rewarded appropriately,” Mr Board said.

QCAR Herbert District Committee issued an invitation to HRDCG to join the tours; however, this was declined.

Mr Board said all attendees were appreciative of the time of BCAS and Wilmar staff for the opportunity to tour the laboratory and Invicta Mill.

The 2026 Rotary NQ Field Day is shaping up to be a celebration of everything that makes North Queensland extraordinary: resilient producers, curious kids, cutting-edge tech, and a whole lot of heart.

The iconic Talangalook herd returns to the spotlight. Known for their tropical toughness, calm temperament, and powerhouse genetics, these Santa Gertrudis cattle are a cornerstone of North Queensland beef production. Their presence is a proud nod to tradition and a bold step toward the future.

Attendees can get ready for feathers, flair, and fast feet—Melville’s Racing Ducks will be there to stir up laughter and friendly competition. These waddling wonders will be a Field Day favourite, drawing cheers from all ages.

Kids will be able to grab their Farmers Passport and embark on a hands-on journey across the Field Day. From machinery displays to livestock exhibits, they’ll collect stamps, complete challenges, and learn about agriculture in a fun, interactive way. It’s education disguised as adventure—and a brilliant way to inspire the next generation.

The 2026 Rotary NQ Field Day Committee are thrilled to welcome Travearth back, showcasing their cutting-edge mapping and geospatial technology tailored for agriculture. From precision farming to land management, Travearth’s live demonstrations will reveal how data-driven insights are transforming the way we grow, graze, and plan.

Whether you're wanting to talk genetics, chase ducks, explore the paddock, or dive into ag-tech, the 2026 Rotary NQ Field Day promises something for everyone. Come for the cattle, stay for the quacks, explore with the kids, and leave inspired by the future of farming.

With The Pest Control Guy

Christmas is almost here, and no one wants uninvited guests in their home, especially the six-legged variety. The Pest Control Guy in Ingham is making it simple to protect your home from pests before the festive season begins.

With summer in full swing, insects and rodents are more active than ever. From mosquitoes and ants to spiders and cockroaches, these pests can quickly turn a relaxing home or outdoor gathering into a stressful experience. That’s where The Pest Control Guy comes in, offering fast, reliable and professional solutions tailored to North Queensland’s tropical conditions.

Whether you’re hosting Christmas lunch, enjoying a backyard barbecue, or want peace of mind while the family is home, a pre-Christmas pest treatment can make all the difference. The team uses safe, effective treatments to target common household pests and keep your property bug-free, so you can focus on what really matters: celebrating with loved ones.

Locally owned and operated, The Pest Control Guy understands the unique challenges of the region, from the heat and humidity to the variety of pests that thrive in the tropics. Their service is prompt, friendly and flexible, designed to fit around your busy holiday schedule.

This festive season, don’t let pests crash your Christmas. Book a visit with The Pest Control Guy and enjoy a home that’s clean, comfortable and pest-free. From now until the holidays, it’s the perfect time to take action, giving your family and guests a safe, worry-free celebration. Contact Michael Slater, the Pest Control Guy on 0439 722 311 or email appc147@gmail.com.

Just like the dashing masked vigilante, Zorro is a handsome, well-dressed young feline with a heart full of promise and the opportunity for a bright future. Zorro may initially seem a bit shy, but give him just thirty minutes, and you'll find yourself enchanted by his gentle nature and sweet demeanour. Once he trusts you, he transforms into a dedicated purr machine, letting you know you've won his heart with his melodic symphony of affection.

Zorro will do best in an environment where patience and plenty of love are abundant. His progression from a shy feline to an endearing companion makes him a truly rewarding pet to welcome home.

Will you be the one to offer Zorro the loving space to settle and thrive? Please fill in an inquiry form at: https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html.

Included in adoption fee of $210 DESEXED, MICRO-CHIPPED, up to date VACCINATIONS, FLEA/TICK/INTESTINAL WORM treated.

DOB: 1/10/2024
Sex: Male
Breed: DSH
Colour: Tuxedo
Kid friendly: Yes
Cat Friendly: Yes
Dog Friendly: Untested
Indoors/Outdoors: Indoors

A milestone celebration took place at Cardwell Library on Friday, the 31st of October, marking sixty years since the beginning of one of Australia’s longest-running bird counts. Titled ‘The Coming of the White Birds’, based on the documentary by the same name, the event honoured the extraordinary conservation legacy of Arthur and Margaret Thorsborne and the many volunteers who have continued their work along the North Queensland coast.

More than 150 people gathered to commemorate the Thorsbornes’ pioneering citizen science project, which has played a crucial role in protecting the Pied Imperial Pigeon and preserving its natural habitat. The Cassowary Coast Regional Council hosted the event, recognising both the Thorsborne Trust’s ongoing work and the collective dedication of local conservationists, artists, and community members.

The celebration featured presentations from guest speakers Liz Downes, Daryl Dickson, Dr John Winter, and Damon Sydes; an art exhibition by the artists of the Hinchinbrook Regional Art Association inc.; and imaginative installations of Margaret’s “White Birds” created by community members of all ages across the Cassowary Coast. Guests learned about the origins of the count and the remarkable science and conservation outcomes achieved over 60 years of monitoring. The highlight of the morning was the unveiling of a portrait of Margaret Thorsborne by artist Catherine Bone, a gift to the Cassowary Coast Regional Council that pays tribute to Margaret’s lifelong commitment to the environment.

Guests also enjoyed a screening of ‘The Coming of the White Birds’ documentary and a morning tea hosted by the Cassowary Coast Library & Museum Services team, whose careful planning and facilitation helped make the event a wonderful success. It was a fitting tribute to sixty years of citizen science and community spirit in Cardwell, with plans in place for the count to continue for many years to come.