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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I recently travelled to Canberra with the northwest Queensland delegation after notification from Glencore that they would be closing the Mount Isa copper smelter.
The closure of the smelter has significant flow-on effects for us who rely on agriculture.
About 17,000 jobs affected across various sectors will have a significant impact on our economy in North Queensland, of which we are a part. In addition, it puts our fertiliser supply under real pressure.
One of the by-products of that copper smelting is sulphuric acid and that’s key for making phosphate fertilisers.
In the Hinchinbrook region, some of our soils are phosphate-deficient.
The phosphate is mined at Phosphate Hill, about 200km from Mount Isa, and then blended with urea and other products in Townsville to make the fertilisers we all rely upon.
From there, it’s sent out to the cane fields, not just here in the Hinchinbrook region but across the east coast.
If that smelter shuts and we lose local acid supply, we’d have to start importing phosphate from overseas and then truck it all the way back to Phosphate Hill. Imagine the cost of that.
What’s that going to do to the price of our fertiliser?
These issues were raised with politicians. They listened, seemed to get it – now let’s see what they do about it.
On a brighter note, we just want to sincerely congratulate the Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club on their nomination for Club of the Year.
It just goes to show what a well-run group of dedicated volunteers can achieve. We wish them all the success going forward.
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With the challenging start to the year, it is warming to see new shops opening, along with new ideas across the town.
Out of challenges, opportunities present themselves, and it is commendable that these new business owners have opened up shop at the best time of the year, when many travellers stop and sample what our great district has to offer.
We have also recently seen some business owners relocate to new locations, continuing to deliver their unique business services to the community and visitors. To existing business operators, it is also admirable, despite the challenges from the start of the year.
Our shire is known for its resilience and determination; we must continue to drive forward with positive outcomes being the goal. Whilst some buildings and shopfronts are amid restoration work or insurance repairs, there are still some businesses looking to reopen after being displaced.
Some of these businesses require particular shop requirements, with larger areas under roof. As restoration work progresses with repairs to buildings, we trust this may free up shop space for these businesses to reopen, or for more new businesses to seize the opportunity and open new shops.
Assistance for business remains in place, and if you wish to talk about what assistance is available, I would urge you to visit the Hinchinbrook Information and Referral Centre at 73–81 Lannercost Street.
On another note, I must congratulate our parks and gardens team for making the town look great. Unfortunately, there are some who don’t share the same sense of pride in our town, with some acts of senseless vandalism occurring lately. This is frustrating and takes time, effort, and money to repair.
If you happen to see any such negative activity taking place around the town, please report it to Police or to the Hinchinbrook Shire Council.
Until next time, take care and stay safe, everyone.
Members of the Cassowary Coast Patrol Group were honoured for their outstanding service at a special awards ceremony held on Monday, the 29th of July, celebrating the dedication, bravery, and long-standing commitment of officers, Police Liaison Officers (PLOs), and Queensland Police Service (QPS) staff.
A total of 28 individuals were recognised across a range of commendations, including District Officer Certificates for their involvement in key operations such as the February 2025 Cardwell floods, Operation Victor Diabelli, and the 2019 bushfires on the Queensland-New South Wales border.
Several QPS Medals and Clasps and National Police Service Medals were also awarded, honouring officers who have served for up to 40 years.
Among the notable recipients was Senior PLO Michael Sands, who received the Queensland Police Exemplary Conduct Medal in recognition of his ongoing work in crime prevention, youth engagement, and strengthening ties between QPS and First Nations communities in Innisfail.
“I am constantly blown away by the commitment and hard work shown by these recipients, and thank them for their service,” said Cassowary Coast Patrol Group Inspector Nathan Blain.
“Our community appreciates the hard work they do each day, facing dangerous and difficult situations to keep them safe.
I am proud of each and every one of these recipients, and the commitment, sacrifice and bravery they embody.”
Five officers—Sergeant Ali Duggan, Special Constable Adam Tickner, Senior Constable Shelly Wright, Senior Constable Aaron Stanley, and Constable Jake Jenkins—received District Officer Certificates for their unwavering commitment to the Cardwell community during the devastating floods earlier this year.
Detective Senior Constable Michael Pearson was awarded the Queensland Police Bravery Medal for his courageous actions on the 22nd of April, 2024, when he disarmed a woman wielding a large hunting knife after a crash involving her children. Pearson entered the vehicle, removed the weapon, and ensured the children’s safety.
The ceremony served as a powerful reminder of the risks faced by local officers and the deep sense of duty that drives them.
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Four dedicated local volunteers have been officially recognised for their years of commitment and courage as members of the Rural Fire Brigade. Their awards were presented at the Rural Fire Service Week Northern Region Awards Ceremony, held on Sunday, 27th July at the QFD Northern Region Emergency Services Complex in Mount St John.
Peter Maltby, of Seymour Rural Fire Brigade, received a Clasp to his National Medal, marking an extraordinary 25 years of service to the community. His continued dedication reflects the resilience and selflessness often found in rural firefighting volunteers.
Joining him in the honours were fellow Seymour Brigade members Brad Morley and Bernie Bostock, each receiving the National Medal for more than 15 years of committed service. The same honour was awarded to Alex Moroney of Mt Fox Rural Fire Brigade, also celebrating over 15 years of frontline volunteer contribution.
The Governor-General of Australia awards the National Medal to recognise long and diligent service by members of organisations that protect life and property at some risk to their own safety. It is one of the nation’s most respected service awards, highlighting not only time served but the unwavering commitment behind every year.
The awards were presented during a ceremony led by Queensland Fire Department Commissioner Mr Stephen Smith AFSM, who welcomed attendees and expressed deep appreciation for the tireless work of volunteer firefighters across the Northern Region.
“Our devoted RFSQ volunteers never stop working to protect Queenslanders, and this week is a chance for us to celebrate the outstanding work they do,” Commissioner Smith said.
“They don’t do it for praise, but each and every one of our RFSQ volunteers and staff deserves our gratitude.”
In a time when bushfire seasons are growing longer and more intense, it is the steadfast service of volunteers like Peter, Brad, Bernie and Alex that keeps communities prepared and protected.
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After a long career in teaching, one Hinchinbrook local made good on a retirement promise - to give back to his community by joining the State Emergency Service. Since 2013, he has become a familiar and reliable face in Ingham’s SES unit.
“I had always intended to join the SES, but in hindsight, I wish I’d joined before I retired,” Ian said. “I would’ve loved to have done more of the activities. But even now, I get so much out of it, I stuck to my plan."
Ian's time with the SES has seen him take part in countless local operations, flood response efforts, and even a major deployment to Proserpine after Cyclone Debbie. He recalls the long hours, chainsawing all day, cutting and hauling heavy debris. But it’s not just the big disasters that stick in his mind, it's the human connections.
“The things that stay with me most are the search and rescue jobs. Especially the recoveries, when we’ve been able to give closure to families. It’s incredibly meaningful work.”
From welfare checks in chest-deep floodwater to assisting police, he’s seen the full scope of what SES volunteers do. He’s also trained in first aid, search and rescue, chainsaw operations, and even holds a drone licence and an aeronautical radio certificate.
“There’s a lot people don’t see,” he said. “We’re traffic control at events, we help people lift belongings before floods, and we support other agencies. We’re part of the community, not just there for disasters.”
This spirit of community is what drives the SES. And now, they’re calling for more recruits.
On Thursday, 7th August, Ingham SES will host a Sign-On and Information Night at their HQ on Menzies Street. Locals of all ages, backgrounds, and fitness levels are encouraged to attend and find out how they can get involved.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for people in our community to give back and be part of something bigger,” said Dan Cordner, SES Local Controller.
During this year’s floods, SES received more than 800 requests for assistance. Local volunteers were bolstered by over 100 state and country-wide SES members giving their time to help our community
In a volatile global sugar market, having the right marketing partner can make all the difference. Wilmar Grower Marketing is helping local cane growers take charge of their sugar price exposure with tailored support, flexible options, and proven results.
As one of world’s largest sugar traders, Wilmar offers growers the confidence to navigate changing market conditions. Whether you're someone who wants hands-on involvement or would rather leave pricing decisions to the experts, our flexible approach puts the power in your hands.
Some growers want to be closely involved in their pricing decisions. Others prefer to hand it over to an experienced team. We cater to both. Our service and products are designed to give growers genuine choice - whether that’s through managed pools, target pricing, or a mix of both.
One of our biggest strengths is our people. Our regional team members live and work in cane communities, so we’re always close by when support is needed. At the same time, we’re backed by a global trading desk, giving us access to detailed market insights that we share with our growers to inform their pricing decisions.
Over the past few seasons, we’ve been proud of the results we’ve delivered. Strong pool performance, competitive premiums and well-timed decisions have helped growers capture more value for every tonne of cane.
We also place a big emphasis on keeping things clear and simple. We know growers are busy running their farms — so we aim to make marketing something that supports your business, not complicates it.
The 2026 season is shaping up to be another important one for growers, and with the 31 October nomination deadline approaching, now’s the time to start thinking about who you want in your corner.
Whether you’re looking to sharpen your sugar pricing strategy or simply want peace of mind knowing your pricing is in good hands, our team is ready to support you every step of the way.
To find out more about how we can support your marketing in 2026 and beyond, get in touch with our team.
A major milestone has been reached by Rural Aid this month, with the organisation proudly supporting its 200th farm through its nationally recognised Farm Recovery Events (FRE) program.
The milestone was marked in Coraki, in the Northern Rivers of New South Wales, where volunteers are currently participating in the latest recovery event, running through until the 2nd of August.
Since the FRE program began in 2018, Rural Aid has delivered hands-on support to more than 200 farms across the country, alongside completing 293 wider community and recovery projects. Their efforts have stretched across 45 towns and regions, from drought-stricken Queensland to fire-affected areas of Victoria.
Communities across Queensland (16), New South Wales (19), Victoria (9) and South Australia (2) have benefited from the support of Rural Aid’s volunteers, who have collectively contributed more than 56,000 hours of skilled labour over the past seven years.
This year alone, volunteers have travelled more than 86,000 kilometres to support the charity’s on-the-ground work.
Rural Aid CEO John Warlters said the milestone reflects a long-standing commitment to rural recovery and wellbeing.
“Our Farm Recovery Events are about more than fixing fences or building cattle yards,” Mr Warlters said.
“They restore hope. Every kilometre travelled, every hour volunteered, is a reminder to our farmers that they are not alone.”
“Reaching our 200th farm is a significant achievement. It speaks to the strength of the rural spirit and the generosity of everyday Australians who put up their hands to help.”
Beyond property repairs, the FRE program also supports mental wellbeing through simple, meaningful acts of connection.
“Time and again, farmers tell us that just having someone show up to help, even just to share a cuppa and talk, makes all the difference,” Mr Warlters said.
“It reduces isolation, lifts spirits and strengthens resilience.”
Rural Aid’s recovery efforts have extended into the heart of many communities, with over 100 projects completed in shared spaces such as halls, schools, showgrounds and sporting facilities.
The program also presents a valuable opportunity for corporate teams to experience rural life and contribute directly to community wellbeing. Through team-building activities on farms, businesses have helped strengthen both people and places.
Long-time Rural Aid volunteer Raelee Keegan said the experience is just as impactful for those giving their time.
“We go in to help, but we get so much back,” she said.
“You feel the gratitude and the connection straight away. I’ve volunteered in towns I’d never even heard of before, and now they feel like part of my extended family.”
Rural Aid’s Farm Recovery Events are made possible thanks to community donations, corporate partners, and a dedicated base of volunteers.
“While we’re proud of how far we’ve come, there’s so much more to do,” Mr Warlters said.
“We’ll keep showing up, because rural Australia matters.”
To learn more or to support Rural Aid’s recovery work, visit www.ruralaid.org.au.
The Hinchinbrook community is among those set to benefit from three new flood recovery funding packages totalling over $77 million, delivered by the Albanese and Crisafulli Governments to support North and Far North Queensland’s ongoing recovery from this year’s devastating monsoonal floods.
The latest funding, announced under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), includes environmental restoration projects and legal assistance for flood-affected residents in the Hinchinbrook region.
The three new support packages are:
These packages bring the total disaster recovery support provided across North and Far North Queensland to more than $507 million, following the North and Far North Tropical Low disaster event in January and February 2025.
Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kirsty McBain said the scale of flooding called for a long-term, comprehensive recovery plan.
“From the get-go we have stressed our unwavering support to all north Queenslanders impacted by this disaster,” Minister McBain said.
“We are committed to ongoing recovery efforts in the region and determined to see this work through - actions such as stabilising erosion, revegetating waterways, controlling weeds and pests, and biodiversity conservation will ensure we not only recover but are ready for the future.”
The Environmental Recovery Program will be available across 40 local government areas, including Hinchinbrook, with a focus on protecting and restoring ecosystems, natural waterways, and coastlines.
Queensland Minister for Disaster Recovery Ann Leahy highlighted the important connection between strong infrastructure and resilient communities.
“Having safe and reliable water supply improves health and economic outcomes. It gives residents peace of mind, and businesses confidence,” Minister Leahy said.
The Legal Assistance Relief will be particularly important for Hinchinbrook residents navigating the aftermath of the floods, helping locals deal with legal issues that may otherwise hinder recovery.
“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.”
Residents and business owners in Hinchinbrook seeking assistance or more information on these programs can visit www.qra.qld.gov.au.
The Bruce Highway Advisory Council (BHAC) met in Gin Gin last week to progress safety upgrades across Queensland’s most vital transport corridor — with Ingham already experiencing the benefits of early action.
As part of the $9 billion Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Package, announced by the Crisafulli Government and secured in partnership with the Federal Government, one of the first completed safety upgrades is located between Ingham and Townsville. The project was part of the initial rollout of safety works now underway across the state.
Ingham residents who regularly use the Bruce Highway are among the first to see on-the-ground results from the largest investment in the highway in over a decade. The upgrades aim to reduce risk for local drivers and long-haul travellers alike.
The Bruce Highway Advisory Council, chaired by Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg, includes regional voices and industry experts. It was reinstated by the Crisafulli Government to ensure real community input into the future of the highway.
“The Bruce Highway is the spine of Queensland’s road network. That’s why we re-established the Bruce Highway Advisory Council – to ensure the people who live and work along the corridor have a real say in how it’s improved,” Minister Mickelberg said.
“We’ve already seen the impact of this Council’s advice, with more overtaking lanes, intersection upgrades, and rest areas being prioritised in response to what members told us.”
Construction is now underway on six of the 16 early works projects, with Ingham included in this crucial first stage. These works form part of a $300 million fast-tracked rollout, enabled by an 80:20 funding deal struck earlier this year.
A key focus of the latest BHAC meeting was on developing a fatigue management strategy—a priority raised repeatedly by regional members, including those from the north.
“Tragically, 158 people have lost their lives on Queensland roads so far this year,” Minister Mickelberg said.
“We know fatigue can be a silent killer on our roads, and that’s why we’re working with the Council to develop a best-practice fatigue management strategy that will save lives.”
The advisory council’s visit to regional Queensland is not only helping shape a safer highway for the future, but also ensures communities like Ingham are represented when decisions are made.
Catching a crab that appears healthy but contains little to no meat can be both disappointing and wasteful. Crabs that have recently moulted are often empty or contain soft flesh that has not yet fully developed and identifying and returning these crabs to the water allows them time to harden and grow, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable crab population.
There are several indicators that a crab may not be full:
Crabs should always be properly restrained or tied before any manual inspection is carried out to avoid injury.
Returning soft-shelled or underdeveloped crabs to the water is not only best practice for ethical fishing but also ensures they may be recaught later when they are fully formed and suitable for consumption.
Annually, the charitable Herbert River Farmer’s League presents generous bursaries to celebrated youths of the Herbert Valley who are enrolled at tertiary institutions, and just last month, the club awarded its 2025 bursaries to three fortunate students.
At an event held at the Ingham RSL on the 5th of July, James Cook University (JCU) Occupational Therapist student Isabella Hemmett (formerly of Ingham State High School), JCU Physiotherapy student Emily Scott (formerly of Gilroy Santa Maria College) and JCU Veterinary Science student Cooper Morley were each presented with one of the Herbert River Farmer’s League bursaries in celebration of their academic excellence and commitment.
First established in 1897, the Herbert River Farmer’s League is comprised of delegates from various groups within the Halifax Planters Club and all have associations with the region’s rich agricultural and sugar cane farming practices. In its earlier years, the Herbert River Farmer’s League worked closely with the Australian Sugar Producers Association, the Australian Cane Growers Association and the Queensland Canegrowers Association.
In 1977, the club began its educational efforts to support students from the district who wished to attend the Queensland Agricultural College in the Burdekin Shire, and overtime, the League has invested just under $400,000 into the education of local students, awarding over 100 bursaries.
For more information on the bursaries and the work of the Herbert River Farmer’s League, email Chairman, Maurice Filei at filei36@bigpond.net.au.
Meet Storm, a truly magnificent Australian Blue Heeler with stunning looks, a sharp mind, and energy to match. This 18-month-old dynamo is the complete package — smart, loyal, and bursting with enthusiasm for life.
Storm is already well on his way to being the perfect companion. Most of his training has been expertly handled, and he walks beautifully on lead. Whether it’s a jog through the bush, a game of fetch, or a backyard run, Storm is ready to go. He thrives with daily exercise and loves being mentally stimulated, making him ideal for an active home that can match his adventurous spirit.
But it’s not all go-go-go. Storm is deeply loyal and will form a strong bond with his humans. If you’re looking for a best mate to stick by your side through every outing and adventure, Storm’s your boy.
Think Storm sounds like the perfect match? Fill out an enquiry form at: www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html
Adoption fee includes his desexing, microchipping, up-to-date vaccinations, flea/tick and intestinal worm treatment, and ProHeart injection.
Adoption Fee: $650
DOB: 08/11/2023
Sex: Male
Breed: Australian Blue Heeler
Kid Friendly: Yes
Cat Friendly: No
Dog Friendly: Yes
Fencing Requirements: 6ft secure fencing
by Jonny Pearce, Abergowrie
I get my beef from Bullock Creek.
They drop it to me every week.
It comes from cattle plumply fed
on Abergowrie's emerald bed.
By crashing waterfalls and streams,
where poets want to paint their dreams,
in Herbert River Valley's heart -
as God displays his misty art.
Just drive as far as you can go -
‘til mountains meet and life is slow.
Inside this station’s rustic gates -
the beef is reared to fill our plates.
Bulls spangle every shade of green
with black and white to dot the scene.
From dawning sparks to mellow fades -
this bovine munch on leafy blades.
The water here is mountain-pure -
no beast could want for any more.
They roam around and gently graze
in paradise throughout their days.
Then from this paddock to the plate,
at sixteen bucks per kilo weight,
it comes in fillet, mince and snags -
all vacuum-packed in plastic bags.
There's t-bones, rump and tender ribs.
You'd think that I was telling fibs -
but that's delivered to your door.
And once it's gone - you order more.
To feed an army at a feast -
I'd go for half a tender beast.
Just add some salt - no need for spice.
You couldn't find a better price.
So if you haven't phoned before,
and had this beef dropped to your door,
then call the number on the card,
and fry it up - or have it charred.
On Abergowrie's final flat,
where grass is thick and bulls are fat,
inside the range’s silver peak -
there's dinkum beef at Bullock Creek.
Strange sightings, cosmic conversations, and plenty of community fun as the Australian UFO Festival returns to Cardwell this August with an action-packed program that’s as educational as it is out-of-this-world.
Running from Friday, 8th August to Sunday, 10th August 2025, this annual event is one of the region’s quirkiest and most beloved gatherings. With something for believers, sceptics, families and fun-seekers alike, it’s no wonder people from across the country are circling this date on their calendars.
The weekend kicks off with free events on Friday, including a Planetarium experience and the storytelling evening Stories in the Stars, both held at the Cardwell Community and Sports Halls. These events set the tone for a weekend that blends scientific curiosity with wonder and entertainment.
At the centre of the festival is the C-Files Forum, a two-day speaker series delving into UFOs, personal encounters, and cosmic mysteries. Hear from researchers, contactees, authors, spiritual and scientific leaders as they delve into the ancient and modern mysteries surrounding the alien unknown
For those wanting to explore Cardwell’s UFO connections firsthand, C-Files Tours run throughout the weekend, guiding curious minds through the local sites and stories that put this seaside town on the paranormal map.
The festival also celebrates local talent and creativity, with events like the Hinchinbrook Regional Arts Mosaic Workshop and the Star People & Ancestral Connections Workshop delving into spiritual and cultural interpretations of the cosmos.
Families are especially well catered for. Saturday night’s Alien Invasion Fancy Dress Party on the foreshore promises fun for all ages, with costume competitions (judging at 6.30pm for kids and 7.30pm for adults), food vans, and live music by Six Rocco. If you’re planning to stay late, a courtesy bus will shuttle partygoers home from 5pm to midnight.
Sunday keeps the energy high with the Monster Market Day, Cosmic Kids activities, Crab Races, and a classic Aussie BBQ at the RSL. Even practical minds have something to explore, with a Moon Phases Workshop, a car boot sale and many galactic tour options rounding out the festival’s many offerings.
Whether you’re stargazing, shopping, learning, or just soaking in the quirky atmosphere, the Australian UFO Festival in Cardwell proves that community spirit and cosmic curiosity can be a perfect match.
For tickets and bookings, head to www.australianufofestival.com.au or check out the event’s social media pages.
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NQ Travel & Cruise is proud to partner with Collette to bring you exclusive earlybird savings on over 170 premium guided tours worldwide. Whether you’re dreaming of meandering through Tuscany’s countryside, cruising the canals of Venice, or learning to cook like a local in the Italian Riviera, Collette’s “Italy’s Treasures” tour is just the beginning.
Book by 31 August 2025 and enjoy 15% off select departures, it's generous savings on truly unforgettable journeys. With handcrafted itineraries, experienced tour managers, and immersive local experiences, Collette tours offer the perfect balance of comfort, culture, and connection.
Let us take care of the details while you focus on what really matters: seeing the world, your way. Pop into our office at 73-81 Lannercost Street, give us a call on 07 4440 3310, or visit our website www.nqtravelandcruise.com.au to start planning your next great adventure.
Your dream holiday is calling, and with Collette, it’s closer (and more affordable) than ever.
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