Community News

Social Media Myths Can Cause Cancer

Social Media Myths Can Cause Cancer

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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Bushtucker Bliss

Bushtucker Bliss

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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Meet Kevin Wang

Meet Kevin Wang

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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New Crocodile Management Plan To Prioritise Public Safety

New Crocodile Management Plan To Prioritise Public Safety

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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Corn And Crab Soup

October 9, 2025

Each silky spoonful of this speedy Chinese soup is laden with fresh corn and shallots.

Ingredients
4 corncobs, husks and silk removed
1.5L (6 cups) chicken stock
2 tsp finely grated fresh ginger
2 tbsp light soy sauce
2 tsp cornflour
60ml (1/4 cup) cold water
2 egg whites
1 x 227g ctn fresh crab meat, drained
4 green shallots, ends trimmed, thinly sliced diagonally
1/2 cup fresh coriander leaves

Step 1. Use a sharp knife to cut down the length of the corn, close to the core, to remove the kernels.
Step 2. Place the corn, stock and ginger in a large saucepan. Cover and bring to the boil over high heat.
Step 3. Reduce heat to medium and simmer, uncovered, for 5 minutes or until the corn softens slightly.
Step 4. Meanwhile, whisk together the soy sauce, cornflour and 1 tablespoon of water in a small bowl until smooth. Whisk together the egg whites and remaining water in a bowl.
Step 5. Add the cornflour mixture to the corn mixture and stir until well combined. Cook for 1 minute or until the soup thickens slightly. Gradually add the egg mixture in a thin, steady stream, stirring constantly until combined.
Step 6. Stir in the crab meat and shallot. Season with pepper. Ladle among serving bowls and sprinkle with the coriander. Chilli to Serve.

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Dinner Done Right At Forrest Beach Takeaway

August 4, 2025

Everybody knows them for their smashing fish and chips and scrumptious burgers, but did you know Forrest Beach Takeaway serves up so much more? Just look at some of the incredible meals they cook fresh to order every weeknight!

Follow their Facebook page for daily specials and updates on what’s on the menu. With comforting home-style meals and generous portions, it’s the perfect excuse to take the night off cooking. Feed yourself or the whole family, the Forrest Beach Takeaway has you covered. Meals available from 5:30 pm and start from $20, call ahead to order on (07) 4777 8918.

MONDAY NIGHT MEAL SPECIALS
Roast Pork or Roast Lamb with Potato Bake and Vegetables
Crumbed Chicken with Creamy Garlic Tortellini
Rogan Josh Curry with Rice and Roti (Lamb or Chicken)

TUESDAY NIGHT MEAL SPECIALS
Corned Beef Silverside with Mash and Vegetables
Drunken Noodle Stir-fry (Chicken)
Curried Sausages with Mash and Vegetables

WEDNESDAY NIGHT MEAL SPECIALS
Creamy Garlic Prawns with Rice
Penang Chicken Curry with Coconut Rice
Shepherd’s Pie with Vegetables

THURSDAY NIGHT MEAL SPECIALS
Honey Chicken with Fried Rice
Chow Mein Noodle Stir-fry (Chicken or Vegetarian)
Lemongrass Beef Stir-fry with Coconut Rice

And of course, they have PIZZA FRIDAYS! One happy customer summed it up best: “Thank you for cooking such superb meals – each dish we’ve tried since moving here has been freshly made with beautiful ingredients, served piping hot. We are so lucky to have you in Forrest Beach. If you’re passing through, this venue is a must for any travelling campers.” Alex Mini

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A Crisp Parkrun Morning

October 9, 2025

by Victoria Velton

At Palm Creek, it was a fresh start to the morning. Our 17 parkrunners enjoyed the cool change and the chill breeze that kept us all comfortable while we ran. There were five new faces, with a first-timer taking out the top spot this week. Two personal bests were recorded, one after the other, including my own! I nearly cracked the top ten but finished just outside in eleventh place. I know it’s not a race, but I’m so happy with my progress and truly grateful for the encouragement from all my fellow parkrunners and volunteers. You make getting out of bed on a Saturday morning absolutely worth it.

In Cardwell, a big well done to the 12 participants who took to the foreshore path that morning on a pleasantly cool day. The local Red Earth Running group claimed all three top spots, and three lovely newcomers strolled across the finish line to wrap up the morning on a cheerful note.

Remember, you can grab a coffee or post-parkrun brekkie with friends afterwards. Warm up at a local cafe and dig into a plate of energising eggs and bacon, perhaps!

Park Run Results: 2nd August 2025

Palm Creek #84 – 17 participants
Fastest time: 23:24 | Finisher time: 54:45
Volunteers: Erin Cerutti, Helen Digger, Bridgette Duffy, Matteo Mancuso, Donna Marbelli, Steven Veltmeyer

Cardwell #346 – 12 participants
Fastest time: 29:40 | Finishers' time: 52:42
Volunteers: Kellie Ball, Neil Bland, Terry Curtin, Deborah Eschebach, Jan Ferguson, Kerry Snell

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Photos sourced from Cardwell and Palm Creek Parkrun Facebook pages
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Strength, Vision And Legacy

August 1, 2025

Flags Raised In NAIDOC Tribute

On 22 July 2025, a flag-raising ceremony marked a meaningful NAIDOC Week in Hinchinbrook. Community members gathered at the Hinchinbrook Shire Hall in Ingham, led by Deputy Mayor Mary Brown and Traditional Owners, together, they proudly raised the flags in recognition of the Warrgamay, Nywaigi and Bandjin peoples — Traditional Custodians of the Hinchinbrook region.  With around 70 people in attendance, the event offered a moment to reflect on this year’s NAIDOC theme, “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision and Legacy”.  As Deputy Mayor Brown said, “Today was an opportunity to honour the strength, resilience, and wisdom that have carried communities through generations of challenge and change.”

Legacy And Leadership Honoured This NAIDOC Week

“In Hinchinbrook, we are privileged to live in a region rich with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture, language, and knowledge, with many local families contributing to our community across generations,” Cr Brown said.

Cr Brown emphasised the power of intergenerational connection, saying, “Their legacy is visible in stories passed down, art that speaks across generations, and the deep care for Country that continues to guide community life.”

Importantly, she added, “Let this flag-raising be more than a symbol. Let it be a commitment — to truth, to justice, and to a future built on shared strength, vision, and legacy.”

Council extended sincere thanks to everyone who attended and those who worked behind the scenes, recognising that “these efforts represent more than logistics; they are a collective act of respect and recognition.” She concluded that, "The theme reminds us that the next generation is already here — watching, learning, and leading."

Photo Credit: Victoria Velton.

To see all the photos taken at this event, go to Hinchinbrooklife.com and click the 'Social Pics' tab!

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Victoria's View | 29 July 2025

October 9, 2025

This past week brought some wonky weather for sure – and while the rain was enough to bring the mills to a halt, it didn’t stop locals from getting out and doing their part for the community. From coastline clean-ups to cycling for cures, and recognising those who’ve put in the work to grow and achieve great things, it’s been a week worth celebrating.

From those who came to the flag-raising ceremony and popped in for a yarn and cake afterwards, to Forrest Beach SLSC being recognised for their efforts during the floods, to the youngsters of the Ingham Community Theatre Group bravely stepping on stage for the first time, you should all be incredibly proud.

I must say, the bakeries have been working overtime this week, making event-themed cakes! So many lovely, well-decorated delights to celebrate all the achievements. The joy of cutting a cake and seeing a child absolutely cover their face in frosting as they devour sponge and sprinkles - at a speed that makes you think they’ve never eaten cake before - is just one of the little things in life one has to appreciate.

Victoria

Fun Fact: Fairy bread is the name given to the children’s treat of “hundreds and thousands” on buttered white bread. Fairy bread is commonly served at children’s parties in Australia and New Zealand. The Netherlands has a version called chocoladehagelslag, made exclusively with chocolate sprinkles.

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Cardwell Medical Practice Revival Offers Hope

October 9, 2025

Ensuring that all of Hinchinbrook has access to a doctor when they need it most is a priority of mine. Over two years, the former Cardwell Family Practice’s future has been in limbo with NQPHN, Cassowary Coast Regional Council, Federal Government and State Government working collaboratively to keep the doors open.

Finally, a long-term solution has been reached. I recently joined the Cardwell community to celebrate the transition of Cardwell Medical Practice back to a privately run service. The practice will now be supported by Ingham Family Medical Practice and staffed by a locally based team.

This achievement is the result of strong advocacy and collaboration among NQPHN, Townsville Hospital and Health Service, the Cassowary Coast Regional Council, the Hon. Bob Katter, and myself. These efforts began in 2023, following the announcement that the Cardwell Family Practice intended to close.

Now, with support from the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing’s Thin Markets initiative, Cardwell Medical Practice (formerly Cardwell Family Practice) officially transitioned to a private practice on 1 July 2025.

A sincere thank you goes to Dr. Brett Scott and his team for their dedication and efforts in making this transition possible, ensuring that local patients continue to have access to GP services in Cardwell.

This is a clear example of what can be achieved when all three levels of government work collaboratively for the benefit of the people they represent.

While this milestone is a celebration for Cardwell, the broader battle is not over. Patients across the electorate are still reporting wait times of over three weeks to see a GP. The current wave of winter illnesses is undoubtedly adding further pressure to the ongoing General Practitioner (GP) shortage being felt in Hinchinbrook and across the state.

GPs are facing challenges in recruiting doctors to regional areas, so we will continue working with the Federal Government, NQPHN, and other key stakeholders to focus on recruitment.

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The Cardwell community came together to celebrate the transition of Cardwell Medical Practice on 10 July 2025
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Second Act of Vandalism Hits Beloved Canecutter Monument

July 29, 2025

A wave of sadness swept through the Hinchinbrook community last week after locals discovered the Canecutter Statue on Lannercost Street had been vandalised for a second time since its 2018 unveiling.

The statue was the vision of Mario Torrisi, who championed the idea of creating a tribute to the region’s proud sugar cane heritage more than seven years ago. Brought to life by Ingham Potters Club artists Fay Morris and Bob Britton, the statue has become a powerful symbol of a bygone era and a beloved landmark within the community.

“Ingham’s Canecutter’s Monument represents the blood, sweat and tears of many Australians and new immigrants who gave back-breaking labour to the Herbert Valley district to ensure the cane industry flourished,” wrote Mario’s daughter, Yolanda Torrisi.

The first incident of vandalism occurred in December 2020, when the statue’s hat was severely cracked—locals believed the damage was caused by a hammer or metal bar.

On 22 July this year, the monument was again senselessly damaged, prompting Yolanda to voice her heartbreak: “Vandalism chips away at the sense of pride and ownership that people feel about where they live… It sends a message not of power, but of disregard.”

Hundreds of locals rallied online to express their outrage and sadness, calling the act deeply disrespectful—not only to the history of the Hinchinbrook Shire, but to Mario’s legacy, the artists, and the many people who helped bring the statue to life.

Locals were heartbroken to discover the Canecutter Statue had been struck by vandals once again (Photo Credit: Yolanda Torrisi)
Locals were heartbroken to discover the Canecutter Statue had been struck by vandals once again (Photo Credit: Yolanda Torrisi)
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Ladies In Agriculture Gather To Share, Support And Grow

July 29, 2025

Ladies in Agriculture were invited to a relaxed catch-up session to sip, share and grow. Led by Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Tourism president Mary Brown, the morning offered a calm space for open discussion about the recovery process for those in the local agricultural industry.

The session focused in particular on the challenges of securing grants and the importance of speaking up when funding applications are rejected. Mary noted that outcomes from recovery efforts are only now becoming clear, stating, "Now we're starting to see the data, I am concerned."

Attendees were encouraged to keep applying for grants and to share their recovery stories. Mary urged anyone who has been knocked back for funding to reach out to the Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Tourism. The Chamber can assist in understanding why an application may have failed and help applicants get back on track.

Participants were also reminded to always check the current grant criteria and to revisit their applications. With recent changes to funding rules, many may now be eligible even if they were not in previous rounds.

Now is the time to act. Support is available, and ladies, your story matters.

Discussing the local newspaper and magazine. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
Chamber president Mary Brown addressing the ladies gathered. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
Some of the ladies in agriculture enjoying their coffees at the start of the gathering. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
Nibbles served and conversations happening. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
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Three Charged Over Alleged Armed Robbery In Cardwell

October 9, 2025

Three people have been charged following an alleged armed robbery that occurred at a Bruce Highway rest stop in Cardwell on the evening of Friday the 26th of July.

Police allege that around 6.35pm, a 27-year-old woman from Ayr, a 26-year-old man from Rasmussen, and a 17-year-old boy—also from Rasmussen approached a white Hyundai Accent parked at the roadside stop.

The trio allegedly confronted the driver, an 18-year-old German tourist, demanding his keys, wallet and phone. It is further alleged that one of the offenders produced a firearm and ordered the young man out of the vehicle.

The victim complied with the demands and later reported the incident to police.

Thanks to a coordinated effort by the Queensland Police Service, including the Tactical Crime Squad, Dog Squad and Polair, the stolen vehicle was intercepted as it entered the Townsville area. All three suspects were arrested shortly after.

The 27-year-old Ayr woman and 26-year-old Rasmussen man have both been charged with two counts of armed robbery in company and were due to appear in the Townsville Magistrates Court on Monday, the 28th of July.

The 17-year-old boy faces the same charges and is expected to appear before the Townsville Children’s Court.

Investigations into the incident are ongoing.

Anyone with further information is encouraged to contact Policelink via the online suspicious activity form at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or by calling 131 444. Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.

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Flu Hospitalisations Surpass COVID-19 Across Queensland

July 29, 2025

Queensland is experiencing a significant rise in flu cases, with more people currently being hospitalised with influenza than with COVID-19.

From the 7th to the 13th of July, over 250 people were hospitalised with flu, with an average of 169 public hospital beds occupied daily. This marks a sharp increase from the previous week’s average of 131 beds. In comparison, COVID-19 hospitalisations for the same period were just over 190, with 149 beds occupied on average.

Since the beginning of the year, nearly 3,600 people have been hospitalised with flu in Queensland. This figure is 16 per cent higher than the same time last year, and 90 per cent of those hospitalised were not vaccinated.

Last week alone, the state recorded 3,313 new flu cases—the highest weekly figure reported in 2025. A total of 36,131 cases have been reported this year to date.

Flu-related hospitalisations have impacted a wide range of age groups, with over 340 children under five and 1,679 people aged 65 years and over requiring hospital care. The number of flu-related deaths this year has reached 84.

While COVID-19 and RSV case numbers have remained steady, health authorities are encouraging Queenslanders to get vaccinated against all respiratory illnesses. Free flu vaccines remain available at GPs, pharmacies and community clinics.

Queenslanders are also urged to practise good hygiene and stay home when unwell to help stop the spread of illness.

For full data and vaccination details, visit the Queensland Health website.

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Townsville To Cairns Bike Ride Rolls Through Ingham

October 9, 2025

A peloton of dedicated cyclists rode through the Hinchinbrook Shire last week as part of the mighty Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride; an initiative established to make a difference in the lives of children affected by cancer.

Held annually, the Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride raises both valuable awareness and funds for the Children’s Cancer Institute to support comprehensive efforts focused on preventing and treating childhood cancer.

The Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride was founded in 1999 by Selwyn Hardwick after his sister tragically passed away from cancer, and one of his grandchildren was diagnosed with leukaemia. Whilst travelling on a road trip across Northern Queensland, Selwyn was struck with the idea to ride from Townsville to Cairns to raise money for the Children’s Cancer Institute, and a short while later, he invited his son to join in, and the initiative was established.

The ride has since welcomed hundreds of cyclists to follow the 374km route, raising tens of thousands of dollars to fund the life-changing work of the Children’s Cancer Institute.

On the evening of Thursday the 24th of July, 2025’s fleet of cyclists put their feet up in Ingham for the night before riding on to Innisfail, before finally arriving in Cairns on Saturday, the 26th of July where they crossed the finish line for another year.

Donations to the Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride initiative are still open and can be made online via https://www.tcbr.org.au/sponsor and more information and updates can be found on the TCBR’s website and social media pages.

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Group Dingo at the Ingham Showgrounds. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
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Townsville to Cairns Cycling President David Eakin, Lions Club President Silvia Poggio, and the Lions Club. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
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Group Wombat Arriving at Showgrounds. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
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Group Wombat cycling through town. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
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Cyclists of the Townsville to Cairns leaving Ingham Showgrounds. Photo credit: Victoria Velton
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Councillor Kate Milton 29 July

July 29, 2025

On Saturday, 19 July 2025, our proactive public spaces and Waste Education teams coordinated a Coastal Clean Up in Lucinda. They were joined by local residents and organisations to remove residual flood waste and rubbish in the mangrove areas along Dungeness Road, Lucinda Road and beaches out to the new spit.

A total of just over 1.1 tonnes of flood debris and other waste was collected by enthusiastic volunteers. Items removed included tyres, a canoe and part of a queen-sized bed ensemble. It was also great to have three of my fellow Councillors participate in the event.

Following the clean up, the Lucinda Progress Association generously provided a sausage sizzle and refreshments for volunteers. Thank you to Council, Herbert River Catchment and Landcare Group, Herbert River Improvement Trust, Girringun Aboriginal Corporation and Ingham Rod and Reel Club for their support.

I would like to take this opportunity to remind everyone to secure their loads, particularly when leaving our beautiful coastal areas towing a boat or trailer. Interestingly, one volunteer even found a $20 note beside the road.

In other positive news, the presence of Navua sedge rust is increasing in our shire. This biological control appears to be effective where it has taken hold, reducing seed production, weakening the plant and in some cases leading to plant death. Where rust is visible, it is recommended not to disturb the sedge to allow the rust to spread naturally. Rust spores are dispersed by wind, so we hope to see its continued spread across the region.

Where rust is not present, landholders are encouraged to control Navua sedge using a registered herbicide in accordance with label directions. For more information, please contact Council’s Biosecurity Team on 4776 4088.

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Minute With The Mayor Mayor Ramon Jayo 29 July

July 29, 2025

If you’re a cane farmer still dealing with flood debris, I want to use this column to speak directly to you.

There seems to be a lack of clarity as to what the process to remove the debris from paddocks actually is. If you come across debris while harvesting, you must pull the debris out of the road of the harvester, leave it in the paddock, and contact Council to report and arrange removal.

The debris needs to stay in the paddock for assessment to qualify for collection. I know it might sound a bit pedantic to say: “The debris must remain in the paddock,” or “You have to submit a customer request before we can assess your site,” but unfortunately, that’s exactly how the system works. Council does not make the rules. Much of what we can do is guided by rules developed by other levels of Government — but we do have to follow them. We just need to work within the structure we’ve been given.

So, if you’ve been putting it off — hoping for more time or a simpler process — now’s the moment to act. Call Council on 4776 4600 and lodge your request. Include your contact details, property info, and a photo of the debris if you can. If you can’t, that’s acceptable. As I said, if the waste is in the way, just push it aside — don’t remove it completely. Once you submit, your site will be inspected (usually within five days), and if eligible, we aim to collect the waste within about two weeks.

The current cleanup deadline from the State has been extended to 30 September, which is good news. We’ve asked for it to go further — at least to the end of the season — but so far, the State’s position is firm: no further extension will even be considered until more requests come through. In other words, they want to see demand before they act to extend.

None of this is perfect. But the help is real, and the support is here — as long as we work within the process and act early. So, I want to reiterate: call Council on 4776 4600 and lodge your request.

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Did You Know?

July 29, 2025

Ingham proudly holds the status of an RV Friendly Town, offering travelling caravanners and motorhome users a warm welcome and convenient facilities. Recognised by the Campervan and Motorhome Club of Australia, Ingham provides easy access to short-term parking, dump points and potable water.

Ingham is the perfect stopover to explore the Hinchinbrook region, including TYTO Wetlands, coastal communities and Wallaman Falls.

Drop into the Hinchinbrook Visitor Information Centre at TYTO Precinct — your go-to spot for maps, travel tips, and local know-how, all delivered with a friendly smile.

Local businesses benefit from the steady stream of visitors, with many shops, cafés and attractions catering to the self-contained travel community. The town’s RV friendliness not only supports tourism but also strengthens Ingham’s reputation as a relaxed, traveller-focused destination.

Whether you are passing through or staying a while, Ingham’s RV Friendly status ensures comfort, convenience and a genuine country welcome.

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Carol Sanderson: 45 Years Of Dedication To The Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre

October 9, 2025

Carol Sanderson has been a lighthouse of a volunteer for the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre for decades. This June 2025 marks her incredible 45th anniversary as a volunteer.

Carol has been with Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre (HCSC) since its humble beginnings.  HCSC now has become a vital community hub, delivering emergency relief, support services, and community programs to individuals and families across the region.

Carol comes into the HUB twice a week, generously giving her time to assist with our Emergency Relief Program . Volunteers like Carol play a crucial role in making this possible. Their dedication, compassion, and countless hours of service help ensure that our community remains connected, supported, and resilient.

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Carol Sanderson's colleagues celebrate her and her 45 years of volunteering at the HUB. Photo supplied
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