Queenslanders Urged To Stick To Science As Melanoma Rates Remain Highest Worldwide Health experts are urging Queenslanders to rely on proven medical advice, not social media myths, when it comes to sun safety, as the state continues to record the highest melanoma rates in the world. Dermatologist Associate Professor Erin McMeniman, from Princess Alexandra Hospital and the University of Queensland’s School of Medicine, says misinformation about sunscreen is spreading online at an alarming rate. “Particularly in Queensland, most people receive enough sun exposure to produce vitamin D simply through their daily incidental activities, such as hanging out the washing or checking the letterbox,” she said. She warns that unprotected sun exposure remains the leading cause of melanoma and other skin cancers, with 4,085 Queenslanders diagnosed in 2021 and 385 losing their lives. “Skin damage can occur after 10 minutes exposure when the UV index is at 3 or above. In Queensland, the UV index is 3 or above all year round, even in winter,” she said. In recent weeks, UV levels have reached 14 and 15, classified as “extreme”, further emphasising the need for regular sun protection. Despite these well-established risks, a range of myths persist online, including claims that sunscreen causes cancer, that tans prevent sunburn, or that darker-skinned people cannot get skin cancer. Assoc Prof McMeniman says these claims are not only false, but dangerous. “Unprotected sun exposure has been proven to cause cancer.” She adds that sunscreen found in make-up is rarely strong enough to provide real protection. “You need SPF30 or higher rating to be protected against sun exposure,” she said. “If it’s not SPF30 or above, you should be wearing additional sunscreen under your makeup when you’re in the sun for an extended period.” Assoc Prof McMeniman says one of the biggest concerns is the rising number of Queensland children experiencing sunburn, with nearly half reporting at least one burn in the past year. “Sunburn in childhood, frequent sunburn and sunburn that blisters the skin all increase a person’s susceptibility to UV-related cancers,” she said. Adults over 60 remain the most at-risk group due to limited sun safety education when they were young. However, she says younger generations are benefiting from decades of awareness campaigns, with melanoma rates now slightly declining in those under 40. As Queensland heads into another Summer of intense UV levels, the message from experts remains clear: slip, slop, slap and slide, every day.
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There’s nothing quite like the taste of homegrown bushtucker. Bringing native Australian plants into your garden is a delicious way to connect with the land and enjoy fresh, seasonal flavours straight from your backyard. Here are four native plants that are easy to grow and a joy to harvest. Riberry Riberry, also known as lilly pilly, is a versatile shrub or small tree that brightens the garden with its glossy foliage and colourful fruit. The berries have a unique, spicy flavour with hints of clove and cinnamon, making them ideal for jams, sauces, or desserts. It's a magnet for birds and pollinators, so while you’re enjoying the fruits, your garden is also supporting local wildlife. Kangaroo Apple Kangaroo apple is a striking shrub that offers a distinct visual interest to the garden, with vibrant purple flowers and sweet, tangy fruit. The berries are delicious when fully ripe and can be enjoyed fresh or in creative dishes such as salads or preserves. Lemon Myrtle Lemon myrtle is a fragrant, evergreen plant prized for its intensely citrus-scented leaves. Perfect for teas, marinades, desserts, or sauces, this rainforest native is both ornamental and highly functional. It can be pruned to a manageable size, making it suitable for gardens of any scale. Lemon myrtle’s year-round leaves and aromatic qualities make it a must-have for any bush-tucker garden. Midyim Berry The midyim berry, or midgen berry, is a low-growing shrub with sweet, tangy berries that resemble blueberries. Its copper-toned new growth adds aesthetic charm, and the fruit is perfect for jams, sauces, or simply eating fresh. It also supports pollinators and provides food for native wildlife, making it an excellent choice for gardeners who want to cultivate a productive and ecologically friendly space. Why Grow Bushtucker? Native edible plants are naturally adapted to Australian soils and climates, often requiring less water and maintenance than exotic alternatives. They support biodiversity, offering food and habitat for birds, insects, and other wildlife. And, of course, they taste incredible, fresh, unique, and full of nutrients. A true taste of Australian bush bliss.
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Rachel Cauchis' Newest Optometrist Joining the team around the start of May, the practice’s newest optometrist has quickly settled into his role and has now been here for around seven months. When asked how he is finding it, he laughed, saying how much he enjoyed the office culture, showing he has meshed well with the other optometrists and enjoys the light-hearted environment of the workplace. Originally from Sydney, he studied optometry at the University of New South Wales. His move north came after a rural placement where he was encouraged to get in touch. After a phone call with Travis Cauchi the practice manager and co-owner, he decided to take a chance, packed everything up and thought, “Why not give it a go?” In practice, one of his favourite pieces of equipment is the slit lamp, which gives a magnified 3D view of the interior structures of the eye and allows him to closely examine eye anatomy and detect potential eye disease. He has a strong interest in picking up and managing eye disease, particularly in a regional setting where access to specialist care can be limited. He enjoys working closely with visiting ophthalmologists and doing his best to manage patients locally when travel is difficult. He sees professional development as something that happens every day, learning through experience and exposure to a wide variety of cases. While most of his patients are elderly, they are also his favourites. He enjoys their life stories, their humour and the genuine appreciation they show, which he finds incredibly rewarding. Outside of work, he enjoys exploring local waterfalls, travelling to Cairns and Townsville, and playing basketball with the local community. He is rarely without his film camera and considers himself more of a beach person, happy to sit by the water for hours.
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The Queensland Government has delivered its first major update to crocodile management in almost a decade. The new plan prioritises community safety, with increased patrols and an expansion of removal zones. It represents a commonsense approach to crocodile management. The Government’s Queensland Crocodile Management Plan puts human safety first and was developed with feedback from communities in North and Far North Queensland, including Ingham. The plan will implement increased crocodile management measures, including more patrols in high-risk areas and expanded removal zones. This evidence-based strategy demonstrates the Government’s commitment to listening to local communities and has been shaped by expert recommendations and extensive scientific research. Key changes for Ingham: Tyto Wetlands in Ingham to be upgraded to an Active Removal Zone, with the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service to undertake proactive patrols of this area and any crocodile found to be removed. Regional communities will continue to be consulted on the plan, with a designated four-week annual consultation period and updates made on a rolling basis. A mandatory review will be conducted every five years to ensure the plan continues to reflect the needs of the communities it impacts. The Government will also continue to remove crocodiles from the wild that pose a threat to public safety. Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa said the people of his electorate voted for change, and he was proud to deliver it in his first week as local Member. “Hinchinbrook now has a seat at the government table and work has already begun to deliver the fresh start we promised – starting with a new crocodile management plan that puts the safety of people first in Ingham,” Mr Chiesa said. “Upgrading Tyto Wetlands to an Active Removal Zone is the commonsense approach that’s needed and has been lacking for far too long under the former Government.” Mayor of Hinchinbrook regional council, Ramon Jayo, said it was a practical step to protect the area but to remain Crocwise. "TYTO Wetlands and the surrounding precinct remain one of our most popular destinations. While crocodiles are a natural part of life in North Queensland, proactive management is essential to keep visitors safe. Recent changes by the Queensland Government will allow for increased patrols and the targeted removal of crocodiles that pose a risk to the community. Crocodiles are part of our environment, so staying Crocwise is about using common sense—be alert near waterways, keep your distance, and never take chances."
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At Logilytics, they believe local businesses deserve local solutions and that starts with the team. As a family-owned business based in Ingham, Logilytics are proud to serve North Queensland with a hands-on, community-focused approach to IT.
Owners Ben and Jess Barbi lead the way, combining vision and dedication to keep Logilytics at the forefront of technology. Ben, the business Director, brings years of experience in managed IT services and a passion for helping businesses thrive in a digital world. Jess is the backbone of our operations, working tirelessly behind the scenes to make sure everything runs smoothly and the team has what they need to deliver top-notch service.
Behind the scenes, Denise Barbi keeps accounts and administration running smoothly, ensuring everything stays on track. On the ground, Mario Patane is the go-to expert for data and communications. Whether it’s cabling, networking, or security cameras, Mario’s attention to detail keeps clients connected and secure.
The team at Logilytics are also committed to growing local talent. Seth Morton is their IT Trainee, he is learning the ropes and bringing fresh ideas to every challenge. Cameron Giuffrida is a school-based trainee and represents the next generation of tech support: He's eager to learn and ready to help.
Together, Logilytics are more than just an IT company. They are your neighbours, your partners, and your team. Dedicated to helping North Queensland businesses stay secure, connected, and ready for what’s next.
Whether you’re settling into a new home, revamping your garden, or simply refreshing your living space, the way we shape our surroundings has a powerful impact on how we feel. A well-loved home doesn’t have to be perfect – it just needs to reflect your personality, support your lifestyle, and offer a sense of comfort.
In recent years, we’ve seen a growing trend towards practical and sustainable design choices in both homes and gardens. People are making the most of indoor-outdoor flow, bringing nature in with potted plants and leafy corners, and turning unused spaces into productive gardens. Even a small courtyard or balcony can be transformed into a thriving herb patch or flower haven with a few clever containers and a splash of creativity.
Inside the home, it’s all about balance and function. Storage solutions are getting smarter, colour palettes are more calming, and natural materials remain popular for their warmth and timeless appeal. Whether you’re into upcycled vintage finds or sleek modern finishes, there’s always room for both beauty and practicality.
Local trades and services are also a key part of home improvement. From landscape designers and builders to painters and plant nurseries, tapping into regional expertise not only boosts your own space but supports the community too.
No matter the size of your home or garden, small improvements can make a big difference. Start where you are, use what you have, and watch your space come to life.
Would you like to shine a light on your business while connecting with the Hinchinbrook business community? The Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Tourism is inviting local businesses to host a Chamber Event. It is a great opportunity to boost your visibility, grow your network, and show the community what you do.
You can choose how you want to take part. There are two event styles available: Coffee Connections and Showcase Your Business, or you can even combine both.
Coffee Connections is a morning event held from 7:30am to 9:00am. You open your doors to local professionals and community members, offer coffee and light refreshments, and welcome a guest speaker. It is a relaxed and social setting designed to encourage conversations and connections.
Showcase Your Business events can be held at a time that suits you. These sessions give you the chance to walk attendees through your space, introduce your team, and highlight your services or products in action.
Whether you choose a morning catch-up or a full tour of your operations, Chamber Events are all about celebrating and supporting local business. The Chamber will help tailor the event to suit your needs.
To learn more or to get involved, contact the Hinchinbrook Chamber today at: admin@hinchinbrookchamber.com.au
Loneliness Awareness Week has just wrapped up, and it was a good reminder to check in on those around you: When was the last time you called your mum? Sent a message to your mate? Or checked in with yourself?
Loneliness doesn’t always look like isolation, it can sneak in quietly. When you feel flat around people, keep busy to avoid thinking, or just don’t feel like “yourself.”
In small towns like Ingham, where life is full and familiar, it can be hard to speak up.
That’s why we’re growing our team here at Tumbleweed Therapies. We’ve been offering outreach clinics in Ingham for over two years now, and we’re excited to welcome Lucia Bunce, an accredited counsellor, to the local team. Lucia brings seven years of experience, a calm, grounded approach, and a passion for helping people feel heard and understood.
Whether it’s stress, anxiety, low mood, grief, burnout or something else you can’t quite name, having someone to talk to can make all the difference. Having someone to talk to is the first step toward overcoming loneliness.
Take the time to check in on yourself so you’re in the right space to check in on others, too.
Support is closer than you think. Contact the Tumbleweed Therapies team on 07 4463 8679, or email intake@tumbleweedtherapies.com and check out their website: www.tumbleweedtherapies.com.au.
Help is right around the corner.
On Monday, the 18th of August, we commemorate the 59th anniversary of a battle between North Vietnamese and Australian Army soldiers. The result was at least 245 Vietnamese Soldiers killed, 18 Aussies killed, and 39 wounded. Those who survived the battle agree that without the Australian, United States and in particular the New Zealand Artillery, the Australian casualties would have been much higher.
There were many other battles during the 10-year war (1962 – 1972), but the Battle of Long Tan was the one that cost Australia the most casualties. Eventually, 521 Aussies paid the ultimate sacrifice in the jungles of South Vietnam, and approximately 3,000 were wounded out of a total force of 61,000.
Like those who used to gather to remember their comrades after the First World War, then the 2nd World War, the Korean War, and the Malayan Emergency. Long Tan Day or Vietnam Veterans Day will eventually morph into Veterans Day, and it is the fervent wish of all Veterans that other young men will never again be selected by birthday lottery to serve in another bloody war.
LEST WE FORGET
Contributed by Robert Lang, President of the Cardwell RSL Sub Branch
Get ready for a full day of thrills, spills, and non-stop excitement as the 2025 Long Pocket Earthmoving Ingham Sugar City Rodeo is just around the corner. On Saturday, 6 September, the Ingham Showgrounds will come alive with adrenaline-pumping rodeo action, family fun, and a true celebration of the region’s rural heritage.
Gates open at 8:00am, giving spectators the perfect chance to grab a great seat and soak in the atmosphere before the main events kick off. This year’s program features more than 25 rodeo events, from juniors and novice riders to professional competitions, feature events, and the ever-popular charity ride. Expect top-quality stock, provided by local contractors, and professional competition thanks to the event’s ABCRA affiliation.
Beyond the arena, the day offers something for everyone. Enjoy live music, tempting food stalls, local market vendors, and the warm hospitality that makes Ingham such a special place.
“This event is not just about the rodeo, it’s about bringing people together,” said a representative from the Ingham Rodeo Committee. “It’s a true celebration of Ingham and everything we love about life in the north.”
Whether you’re cheering from the grandstands, browsing market stalls, or tucking into a hearty meal from a local food truck, this is a highlight of the North Queensland events calendar you won’t want to miss.
What: 2025 Ingham Sugar City Rodeo
When: Saturday 6 September 2025, gates open 8:00am
Where: Ingham Showgrounds, Ingham
More than 280 people gathered to celebrate Hinchinbrook Shire Council’s 10th Birdlife Art Awards at the TYTO Regional Art Gallery on Friday night, 1 August 2025. This milestone event continues to honour the rich birdlife of the Hinchinbrook region through the eyes of talented artists from across Queensland, New South Wales, and Victoria. It features an impressive 106 entries across various mediums, including drawing, painting, photography, sculpture, and mixed media.
Open Award winner Kevin Young was emotional after the announcement, they said. “To be chosen from among so many amazing works—it’s given me the boost to keep pushing myself, and I hope it inspires others to keep going too.”
Cr Donna Marbelli, Council’s Community and Culture Service Portfolio holder, said each piece showcases bird species found in Hinchinbrook, home to over 230 bird species, to the broader natural landscapes that inspire our local creatives.
“The Birdlife Art Awards are more than just an art competition,” Cr Marbelli said. “They’re a celebration of our environment, our community, and the incredible talent we have in our backyard.”
Kevin Young won the Birdlife Art Awards' top prize for their striking piece Brolga, which impressed judges with its creativity, technique, and deep connection to Hinchinbrook’s birdlife. The artwork was inspired by a powerful moment on a road trip, when Kevin witnessed a pair of brolgas dancing in a paddock, a sight that left a lasting impact.
“We pulled over and just watched,” Kevin recalled. “They started doing their dance, and it was an emotional event. And when the male threw his head, that image stayed in my mind, and so I had to do something with it. I had to. It's not a choice. It was a need to do so.”
Nick Dametto MP was among the many guests at the opening night and praised the calibre of entries and the dedication of organisers; "Every year I'm absolutely blown away, just like the locals that attend and people that come from out of town to enjoy the inaugural Bird Life Awards, it's absolutely spectacular.
The event is proudly supported by valued sponsors, each of whom has chosen a specific award category to sponsor:
Open Award sponsored by Windlab – Kevin Young: Brolga
Local Artist Award sponsored by Guido’s Panel and Paint – Sharon Cislowski: What the water knows
Youth Award sponsored by Ingham Real Estate - Esther-Rose McCaul: Black Cockatoo
Painting (2D) sponsored by Bisson’s Electrical – Kristina Fontana: Peewee Afterparty
Watercolour sponsored by Frosty Mango – Sahan Kulathunge: The Black Beauty
Mixed Media sponsored by Jenark Business Solutions – Diane Beningfield: Terrible Trio
Works on Paper – Amy Venn: The Bathers
Photography sponsored by Wilmar Sugar and Renewables – Stan Skeates: Pull the other one
Creamics – Meg Allford: Backyard Visitor
Sculptural Form sponsored by KDM Allsorts – Fran Nason: Cockatoo Sunrise
Voting for the People’s Choice Award sponsored by Hinchinbrook MP Nick Dametto will remain open until the close of the exhibition, with the winner of this category announced on Wednesday, 3rd September 2025.
To vote, please visit the TYTO Regional Art Gallery. The 10th Hinchinbrook Birdlife Art Awards will be on display daily from 10:00am to 4:00pm until Saturday, 30th August 2025. The full gallery of social photos from the opening night is avaliable online at: hinchinbrooklife.com
Friends of a feather celebrating art together, if you haven't yet, go and see all the beautiful birds artfully depicted in the Tyto Gallery. It's flocking fantastic to see the skill and love for Hinchinbrook's birdlife on display. I know I was thrown to the wind by a few of the pieces, and maybe you fall so in love with one, you may even purchase it to take home after the exhibition finishes.
This week was also a time to recognise our local legends and heroes, Police and Rural Fireies, receiving awards for their dedication and service. I got to meet Ian of the Ingahm S.E.S., and I can say I never knew how much they did for the community. Thank you all for your service to this community and beyond.
Things are also ramping up for the Australian UFO festival. This looks to be the best festival for anyone who loves everything about the stars and beyond, and as someone who has never experienced an alien encounter (yet!), I am definitely looking forward to reporting on it, maybe I'll even see a few of you there enjoying the workshops or partying it up in your best alien disguises.
Victoria
Fun Fact: Spaceballs is a 1987 American space opera parody film co-written, produced and directed by Mel Brooks. It primarily parodies the original Star Wars trilogy and was one of the first sci-fi films I ever saw, sparking a love for Mel Brooks films and the sci-fi genre. Doctor Who was also a childhood favourite, who's your favourite Doctor?
In the wake of February’s devastating weather event, the Lions District of North Queensland, in partnership with Lions Clubs International, has launched a special Disaster Recovery Fund to support flood-affected families across the Hinchinbrook and Cassowary Coast regions.
With up to $1000 available per household, the fund is designed to assist those who have suffered severe loss or disruption due to the floods. It can help cover essential items and immediate needs, from replacing basic household goods to easing the financial burden of recovery and rebuilding their lives.
For the Lions Club, every contribution counts towards the journey of restoration.
The initiative reflects the Lions’ enduring commitment to community service, ensuring that support is not only fast-tracked but also local and accessible. More than a financial contribution, this fund is a gesture of solidarity, recognising that real recovery takes time, care and collective effort. List your preferred supplier and shop locally too; recipients are encouraged to support their local businesses, which were also impacted by the flood.
For more information or to apply for assistance, contact the Ingham Lions Club at inghamlionsclub@gmail.com.
In times of crisis, the Lions are once again proving that when a disaster strikes, kindness and community rise to meet it.
The devastating flooding event that impacted our region in February 2025 caused widespread damage, leaving homes and businesses reeling in its aftermath. One of the most serious consequences was the inundation and shutdown of the Ingham substation, which plunged the entire district into darkness and disrupted telecommunications at a time when we needed them most.
This significant power outage during a natural disaster made an already difficult situation even more challenging. The loss of electricity not only impacted homes and businesses but also vital communication and emergency response capabilities. In times of crisis, maintaining power should not be a luxury, it is a necessity. During a flooding event, our electrical distribution asset should be more resilient.
I recently submitted a Question on Notice to the Energy Minister, seeking clarity on what steps are being taken to flood-mitigate the Ingham substation. Specifically, I asked whether funding had been allocated, what planning was underway, and when we could expect to see tangible outcomes delivered.
In response, the Energy Minister has advised that Ergon Energy Corporation Limited (Ergon) has submitted a funding application to the Australian Government’s Disaster Ready Fund for flood mitigation works for the Ingham Substation.
More notably, Energy Queensland has also advised that provisions have been made in the 2025-26 Budget for Ergon’s expected share of the works, with Ergon expressing confidence that critical works will be completed before the 2025-26 summer period.
This is a timeframe that reflects the urgency and importance of ensuring that Hinchinbrook Shire isn’t left in the dark again during our next flooding event. I am hopeful that we will see construction at the Ingham substation commence soon, which is a favourable outcome for the whole community.
These works are not just infrastructure upgrades, they are a necessary investment in Hinchinbrook’s safety, resilience and ability to respond in times of crisis.
I would like to extend appreciation to those who have advocated and thank you to the relevant Ministers, the Hinchinbrook Shire Council, Ergon Energy and Energy Queensland for committing to deliver this flood resilience project.
Sporting and recreation clubs across North and Far North Queensland impacted by early 2025’s severe flooding can now apply for a share in a $30 million funding package to help repair and rebuild their facilities.
The Sport and Recreation Recovery Program (SRRG) — a joint initiative by the Albanese and Crisafulli Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) — offers up to $1 million per facility for eligible not-for-profit sport and racing clubs, as well as local councils.
Funding can be used to restore damaged facilities, equipment and infrastructure including canteens, amenities, playing courts, fences, lighting, racetracks, electrical systems, synthetic pitches, shade structures and carparks. In some cases, facilities may also be rebuilt to more resilient standards to help mitigate the impacts of future disasters.
The program aims to minimise disruption to community life and help resume local sporting competitions and recreational activities as soon as possible.
Earlier this year, North Queensland endured more than 12 consecutive days of monsoonal rain during January and February, with some regions recording over two metres of rainfall. Widespread flooding caused significant damage across the Hinchinbrook, Cassowary Coast, Burdekin, Charters Towers and Townsville local government areas.
Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kirsty McBain emphasised the importance of supporting community hubs.
“When disaster hits, it’s not just homes and roads that are impacted, it’s the places where people come together, and that includes local sporting grounds and community facilities," Minister McBain said.
“This program is about making sure recovery reaches every corner of the community, including the clubs and spaces that bring people together after tough times.
“We’ll keep working alongside the Queensland Government and local councils to make sure communities have the support they need to rebuild stronger and more resilient than before.”
Queensland Minister for Sport Tim Mander said the funding would assist with the next stage of the recovery.
“With the initial cleanups completed, this funding package is about making the more expansive repairs needed to ensure clubs can fully recuperate," Minister Mander said.
“Assessments are ongoing, and we will continue to extend the eligibility as more clubs continue to seek support.
“I encourage clubs and councils to contact their local Sport and Recreation officer to see if they may be eligible. We want our clubs to get back on their feet so Queenslanders can not only experience the physical and mental health benefits of sport but also the togetherness that these clubs bring to the community.”
Queensland Minister for Disaster Recovery Ann Leahy said the support was critical in restoring the heartbeat of affected regions.
“It is a well-known fact that sport and recreation plays a vital role in the community by providing much needed extracurricular activity through sport and social activities," Minister Leahy said.
“Restoring the operations of impacted facilities contributes significantly to community recovery.”
Clubs and councils can find eligibility guidelines and application details online at www.qld.gov.au/recreation/sports/funding/sport-and-recreation-recovery-grant, and more general disaster help information is available at www.qld.gov.au/disasterhelp.
On the evening of Thursday the 31st of July the Queensland Police Service (QPS) Forensic Crash Unit were called to investigate a fatal traffic crash in Ingham.
Emergency services responded at around 10:50pm to reports that a pedestrian had been struck by a white Toyota Hilux on Trebonne Road. Tragically, the pedestrian, a 54-year-old Rowes Bay man, died at the scene.
The driver of the vehicle, a 36-year-old Bemerside man, and a passenger, a 22-year-old Aitkenvale man, were not physically injured.
Investigations are ongoing into what caused the crash and police are appealing to anyone who witnessed the incident, or who may have dashcam or CCTV footage from the areas around the time of the crash to come forward.
To report information contact Policelink at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or call 131 444 and quote the reference number QP2501346729.
Each August, Loneliness Awareness Week reminds us that human connection is vital. Embracing this year’s theme ‘Moments Matter’, selectability Ingham’s Clubhouse demonstrates how everyday interactions such as shared meals, creative projects, or simply a cuppa and a chat, are helping to overcome social isolation and loneliness.
With research showing 1 in 6 Australians experience severe loneliness, a condition as harmful to physical health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day, selectability’s Clubhouse program offers a recovery-oriented solution to overcoming social isolation.
selectability’s Ingham Regional Coordinator, Julie Ross, said their Breakfast Club had become a popular way to bring the community together to share a meal and connect with others, as it's available for everyone to enjoy.
“The theme of this year’s Loneliness Awareness Week ‘Moments Matter’, really does demonstrate that simple activities like Breakfast Club can create small moments that can make a positive difference," said Julie.
“Overcoming loneliness and building connection and purpose can all start by starting your day with a good feed surrounded by friendly faces and great conversation.”
Held every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 6:30am to 8:00am at the Canegrowers Building, 11-13 Lannercost Street, the Breakfast Club initiative aims to provide a warm meal and space that fosters a sense of belonging for the whole community to enjoy.
For anyone over 18 seeking support to improve their mental wellbeing, there are a range of NDIS packages available, and funding options for those not on the scheme. To find out more, contact Julie and the team on 07 4781 2690.
To mark the beginning of celebrations for 2025 National Skills Week, on Saturday, August 23, North Queensland Senior School and training organisation, Tec-NQ, will throw open its doors for an all-ages Open Day with a difference. With 69 trades currently identified as experiencing a national skills shortage, there is no better time to try out a trade.
Tec-NQ Chief Executive Officer Ross Jorgensen said this year’s Open Day will be an all-ages celebration of everything trade, offering something of interest for the whole family.
“Again in 2025, we’ll have a selection of industry partners displaying unique and emerging technical tools of trade. Teachers, trainers, industry partners and students will also be on hand to talk about undertaking a work-based education at Tec-NQ” he added.
There will be hands-on try-a-trade activities for all ages. Kids can rev up a big diesel motor, teens can wire a circuit board, and everyone can test their welding skills on the augmented reality simulator. Plus, engage in interactive activities and small take-home projects.
Tec-NQ is a Registered Training Organisation (RTO), an independent senior secondary school and an accredited boarding school with extensive industry networks to deliver trade-based career opportunities for North Queensland students. Tec-NQ House, located in Rosslea, accommodates up to 40 male boarding students from remote and rural communities completing their schooling at Tec-NQ.
The Open Day runs from 9am – 12.30pm on Saturday 23rd August at their campus at 54 Discovery Drive in Douglas. Register for a campus tour and information session at tecnq.com.au
The Cardwell RSL Sub Branch hosted a memorable cheque presentation ceremony on Sunday the 27th of July, marking yet another act of generosity from the organisation. The latest donation ensures the Sub Branch will receive an invitation to the Over 65’s Lions Christmas Party later this year, an exciting event all members are eager to attend.
So far in 2025, Cardwell RSL has donated more than $13,000 to various community organisations, including local schools, the Coast Guard, and other non-profits.
Much of the funding for these donations comes from the Sub Branch’s popular Sunday BBQ and buffet lunches. At just $10 per person, the spread which includes a wide variety of fresh salads—continues to draw crowds, with 66 diners attending last weekend alone.
The ongoing success of these community lunches is thanks to the dedication of Cardwell RSL’s volunteers. From manning the BBQ and kitchen to running the bar, the volunteer team keeps operations running smoothly each week.
Their hard work not only feeds the community but helps fund vital local projects, proving once again that when a community comes together, everyone benefits.
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