Hinchinbrook Shire Council Mayor Ramon Jayo is calling on more consulates to bring their services to regional Queensland following the success of the Italian pop-up consulate in Hinchinbrook.

The two-day event attracted more than 40 appointments, providing vital assistance to residents without the need to travel to Brisbane or Canberra.

“This is an invaluable service to our community, and I truly wish more nationalities would take it up,” Mayor Jayo said. “We’ve seen how time-consuming progress can be when operating outside of Canberra, so bringing these services to the regions makes a real difference.”

Consul Luna Angelini Marinucci from the Consulate of Italy in Brisbane said the visit was about connection and respect.

“It’s important we go into the regions, see the places, meet the people, understand the immigration stories, the canefields, and show maximum respect — that’s the real passport to making a difference,” she said.

Simon Hood Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

As we move towards the end of the year, it has been a valuable time to reconnect with growers across the Herbert.

Our recent market update sessions were well attended, and we appreciated the opportunity to sit down with growers, discuss the current price environment, and talk through the options available to help manage risk. These sessions are an important way for us to understand what is happening on farms and to make sure we’re providing the right support at the right time.

One of our key initiatives to support growers is the early opening of the 2026 Pre-Season Payment. With the significant fall in sugar prices and the resulting impact on monthly advance payments, we know many growers are facing cash flow pressures leading into the Christmas period.

To help ease that pressure, growers who market with Wilmar can now access a $5 per tonne payment on their nominated 2026 season cane from 1 December. Repayments will not begin until the 2026 crush starts, and the current interest rate is 5%. This option is there for growers who need some extra breathing room heading into the New Year.

This month, we also say farewell to Franco Zaini, who is finishing up after an incredible 23 years in the sugar industry, including the past eight years with the Grower Marketing team. Franco has supported growers across the regions with professionalism, honesty and genuine care, and his contribution to both the industry and our team has been significant. We thank Franco sincerely for his dedicated service and wish him all the best for the next chapter.

As the year winds down, we would like to acknowledge the hard work and resilience shown by growers in what has been a challenging year for pricing. On behalf of the Grower Marketing team, we wish all growers and their families a safe and Merry Christmas. We hope you enjoy some well-earned time with loved ones, and we look forward to working with you again in 2026.

This festive season, NQ Travel & Cruise is celebrating the joy of giving — and the joy of exploring — with our popular Christmas Gift Vouchers now available in store. Whether you’re searching for the perfect present or wanting to surprise someone with the promise of a future adventure, a travel gift voucher is a meaningful way to wrap up an experience they’ll never forget.

As Ingham’s local, accredited travel specialist, I’m passionate about helping our community see the world with confidence. Backed by the award-winning Travellers Choice network and more than 15 years of industry experience, NQ Travel & Cruise offers personalised itineraries, trusted global suppliers, and the reassurance that every detail is handled with genuine care.

With the new year just around the corner, many travellers are already planning their 2025 and 2026 holidays. January appointments are filling quickly, so if you’re thinking about starting your travel plans, now is the perfect time to secure your spot. Call 07 4440 3310 to lock in your appointment today.

"Wishing you a Merry Christmas and happy travels from NQ Travel & Cruise." - Kathleen Lynch, Owner and Manager at NQ Travel & Cruise.

It’s that time of year again when the ovens start to warm up and Mick’s Bread Kitchen begins preparing for one of its busiest and most delicious seasons. As Christmas draws near, Mick’s is once again inviting locals to get in early and place their festive orders before the shelves are cleared.

The kitchen team is already planning a mouth-watering range of holiday favourites that will be available in the lead-up to Christmas. Keep an eye out for their much-loved Christmas Fruit Cakes, baked fresh in-store and available in both small and large sizes, perfect for gifting or sharing around the table. The ever-popular Plum Puddings will also make a return, but numbers are limited, so early orders are strongly recommended.

Fans of sweet festive treats can look forward to the bakery’s famous White Christmas Slice, Rocky Road, Rumballs, and Apricot Balls, each one handmade with care and packed with nostalgic Christmas flavour. If you can’t decide which one to take home, Mick’s Christmas Snack Packs offer a little of everything and make the perfect gift or grazing treat for gatherings.

Of course, no visit to Mick’s Bread Kitchen is complete without one of their legendary pies. Made from scratch using locally sourced ingredients, each pie is baked to perfection with a signature flaky pastry and hearty fillings that keep customers coming back for more. From traditional beef and steak varieties to gourmet options packed with rich flavour, they’re the ultimate comfort food and perfect for a quick lunch during the festive rush.

Beyond the baked goods, Mick’s Bread Kitchen will also be serving piping hot and iced coffees, and while the festive range takes centre stage, regular favourites are still rolling out daily. From sushi to cream buns, matchsticks, and freshly baked bread, the team continues to deliver the comforting flavours the community loves all year round.

Christmas always comes early at Mick’s, and with so many festive goodies on the horizon, now’s the perfect time to start planning your orders. Get in early, beat the rush, and make your Christmas table shine with a touch of local tradition by Micks Bread Kitchen.

Homemade Nuts & Bolts

Nothing says Christmas quite like a big bowl of homemade nuts and bolts! It’s a snack that marks the true start of the festival season, and with November now here, there’s no better way to prepare for the month ahead than by whipping up a batch of these tasty little savoury treats.

Just like many Christmas traditions, every household has its own version of this classic recipe. Some swear by Nutrigrain and pretzels, while others mix in Ritz, cheese crackers, or peanuts for extra crunch. But one thing everyone agrees on? There’s never enough garlic or butter.

To make your own batch, toss your favourite cereals, crackers, nuts, and pretzels in a melted mix of butter, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and seasoning salt, then bake low and slow for about an hour, stirring every 15 minutes. The result: a golden, crispy party mix that’s equal parts nostalgia and deliciousness.

Best of all, nuts and bolts keep beautifully in an airtight container (if you can resist eating them all straight from the tray). It’s perfect for holiday gatherings, very customisable, great for road trips, or wrapping up as a homemade gift. So what are you waiting for? Jump into the kitchen and put together some Christmas cheer!

‍

This holiday season, Bike & Power Ingham is the go-to destination for riders looking to upgrade their gear or find the perfect electric bike. From Kawasaki’s global powersports line comes the Elektrode 20, an electric balance bike designed for riders aged eight and older. With a powerful 750 W in-wheel motor, three selectable speed modes, and a large-capacity 48V battery, the bike delivers up to three hours of riding time and speeds up to 39 km/h. Adjustable seat and handlebar positions, premium disc brakes, and a lightweight aluminium frame make it ideal for everyday fun, off-road play, and building confidence on two wheels.

The Elektrode 20’s motocross-inspired design and striking lime green finish ensure riders feel part of the Kawasaki family from the moment they swing a leg over. Built tough with high-quality components, 20-inch wheels, and foldable pedals, it combines durability with excitement for young riders stepping up from smaller models or just beginning their motocross dreams.

Bike & Power also has festive bargains across Kawasaki KLX and KFX models, providing cash savings for those looking to treat themselves or the family this Christmas. The team at Bike & Power invites the community to visit in-store and see the range of the latest electric and petrol-powered bikes from Kawasaki.

Make this season one of fun, adventure, and outdoor thrills! Come in-store to Bike & Power Ingham at 51 Herbert Street, Ingham, and find the perfect ride for Christmas today.

‍

This Christmas season, Ingham Agencies is the place to stock up on top-quality tools and safety gear. Whether you’re a professional tradesperson or a DIY enthusiast, their store at 21–25 Halifax Road, Ingham, has everything you need to work smarter, safer, and more efficiently.

Now that the crush season has wrapped up, Sugar Dissolving Oil 20L is the ideal choice for washing down equipment and getting machinery back to its best. Designed specifically for cane machinery, it provides effective lubrication for light-loaded gears and bearings, slides, chains, cams and rams. It also helps free bolts or parts that have seized due to sugar build-up, and its water-washable formula makes clean-up fast and simple. Available now in convenient 20-litre drums.

For hand protection, Ingham Agencies stocks MACK Traction Nitrile Disposable Gloves. With a heavy-duty diamond grip, resistance to oils, chemicals, and punctures, and sizes from S to 2XL, these gloves are perfect for every task in the workshop or on-site.

Milwaukee’s Black Friday deals are also in-store at Ingham Agencies, offering unbeatable savings on power tools, battery packs, and hand tool sets. From M18 FUEL power packs to circular saws, soldering kits, and combination wrench sets, there is a deal for every tradesperson, but stock is limited.

Come in-store to Ingham Agencies today and see the full range for yourself. Whether you’re upgrading your welding gear, preparing your workshop with gloves, or securing premium Milwaukee tools, these Christmas deals make it easy to finish the year well-equipped and ready for 2026. Don’t miss out, visit Ingham Agencies at 21–25 Halifax Road, Ingham, and claim your festive savings before they’re gone.

Bring the taste of Italy to your festive table with Lou’s Food Emporium. From panettone and Pandoro Classico to homemade treats and Italian classics, there is something to delight every palate. Try panettone in a variety of scrumptious flavours, each one perfect for sharing at family gatherings or gifting to friends and neighbours.

Discover a variety of Christmas cakes, chocolates, rocky road, and homemade Italian sweet treats that add a special touch to every celebration. Planning a festive platter? Order early to secure your favourites and make entertaining simple and delicious.

Lou’s coffee is always piping hot, perfect to grab and go before Christmas shopping. And with the heat of an Aussie summer, their frappes are a refreshing favourite. With plenty of flavours and topped with whipped cream, they are the ideal cool-down treat on a busy festive morning.

Looking for the perfect gift? Lou’s offers Christmas hampers, ready to go or customised to your liking. Each hamper is carefully packed with quality products, giving you an easy and thoughtful present for family, friends, or colleagues.

Their deli is brimming with continental smallgoods, imported and Australian cheeses, salamis, olives, fresh pasta, sauces, biscuits, sweets, and gourmet delights, all selected for exceptional taste and quality. Cheeses and salamis can be cut to your preferred thickness, exactly how you want them.

Visit Lou’s Food Emporium on Ingham's main street and explore the full range of festive and everyday products. With friendly service and a beautiful selection, everything you need for a memorable Christmas is right here.

Cardwell is set to welcome the festive season with a heartwarming community celebration, as locals gather for an evening of Christmas carols, fun activities, and festive cheer. The event will take place at the Cardwell Community Hall, located at the corner of Gregory and Brasenose Streets, on Saturday, 6 December 2025 from 5:00pm.

Families and friends are invited to enjoy a joyful night of song and celebration. The highlight of the evening will be a lively sing-along of traditional and contemporary Christmas carols, bringing the community together in the spirit of the season. For children, there will be plenty to keep little hands and minds busy, including a craft centre where kids can get creative, as well as the opportunity to post letters to Santa, ensuring that festive wishes are sent straight to the North Pole.

Adding to the festive atmosphere, a free sausage sizzle will be available for attendees! Offering a chance to enjoy a warm meal while catching up with neighbours and friends, and sharing in the joy of the holiday season.

Event organisers are encouraging everyone to come along, bring the family, and embrace the spirit of Christmas together. Whether you’re attending for the music, the food, or the chance to see the kids’ excitement as they post letters to Santa, there is something for everyone at this family-friendly celebration.

For more information, residents can contact Thea on 0447 660 248 or email cardwelllions@gmail.com

WHAT: Christmas Carols in Cardwell
WHEN: Saturday 6 December 2025 from 5:00pm
WHERE: Cardwell Community Hall, Cnr Gregory & Brasenose Streets, Cardwell

‍

Henry Wickham Rubber Baron And Tobacco Planter

By Dr Bianka Vidonja Balanzategui

Do you know that Sir Henry Alexander Wickham, father of the rubber industry, once lived in the Herbert River Valley? He made the automobile industry possible when he removed rubber plant seeds from Brazil for the Royal Botanical Gardens at Kew.

No relation to George Wickham, Henry Wickham was born in London in 1846. He spent much of his adult life as an explorer and pioneer planter living in diverse tropical locations, experimenting with many crops.

After being refused employment at Kew to disperse rubber seedlings for the global rubber industry, he abandoned his plantation in Brazil, arriving in Townsville on 22 January 1877 with his wife, Violet Carter. They travelled straight to the lower Herbert carrying with them young tobacco plants and sapling coffee trees.

There was a strong settler demand for tobacco and snuff that was not being met by imports, while the indentured Melanesian workers, as well as the Indigenous peoples, preferred the tobacco introduced by Europeans to the native variety.

Refashioning his past, Wickham described himself as an American tobacco expert, showing local shopkeepers samples of tobacco he claimed to have grown and cured in Brazil. He immediately started taking up land, calling his holdings Maragen.

In 1876, John Eustace Hammick moved to the Herbert and took up a selection, calling it Coolamatong. Joining Wickham in a business partnership, they put in experimental plantings of tobacco.

Wickham distributed samples of their tobacco far and wide and exhibited at the National Agricultural and Industrial Association’s exhibition held in Brisbane in 1879. On that occasion, they received second place for their tobacco. They began to expand their range responding to market taste. In 1881, Messrs. Gaujard and Elson, Brisbane, became their marketers. Well-cured samples were declared ‘par excellence’ and locals thought the tobacco was ‘well manufactured’.

While Hammick and Wickham travelled away promoting their product, Violet was left for weeks on end to face growing and curing tobacco in an unfamiliar environment alone. Her diary reveals her to be a courageous woman with a good sense of humour.

For nine years, Wickham and Violet persevered. Nevertheless, despite attempting to pander to consumer tastes, demand fell and their efforts faltered on climatic conditions, taste and Wickham’s poor business decision to sell tobacco that had not been cured long enough.

Hammick broke the partnership leaving Wickham in debt. The Wickhams continued farming for another 18 months but meanwhile, Wickham hatched a plan in 1884 to survey Maragen for sale as the Mount Maragen Town Selection. No township eventuated and most of the surveyed town blocks were absorbed as cane land. Practically penniless, Violet and Wickham sailed for England in early 1886.

Ever the adventurer, Wickham moved on to further adventures in other tropical plantation areas, while today, on the Herbert, Mount Maragen remains as a distant echo of Sir Henry Alexander Wickham.

By Victoria Velton

What a sweltering start to the weekend. Both Cardwell and Palm Creek were recording high heat that felt worse with accompanying high humidity. I am surprised that many of the participants weren't mere puddles of sweat by the end of their parkruns.

I was the tail walker this week and even with my lack of running, I felt I was sweating as much as our faster runners. I will definitely start wearing a hat and sunnies along with my usual sunscreen in the coming weeks as the temperatures climb. Stay sun safe and hydrated out there, thanks to our volunteers for keeping us cool with iceblocks after the run, you're the best!

Parkrun Results: 29th November 2025
Palm Creek #101 – 15 participants
First finisher: Julian (21:55)
Final finisher: Victoria (56:10)
First timers: Damien of 'Table of knowledge?', Joel
Volunteers: Sandra Coco, Bridgette Duffy, Donna Panzenbock, Amanda Towner, Victoria Velton.

Cardwell #363 – 14 participants
First finisher: Maxx (23:17)
Final finisher: Judith (52:56)
PBs: Jenny (33:46), Bruce (41:03)
First timers: Maxx, Blake
Volunteers: David Clarke, Judith Clarke, Jan Ferguson, Matthew Gardiner, Kerry Snell, Lyndel Weare.

Just over 18 months ago, Mayor Ramon Jayo made a phone call that changed the future of print media in the Hinchinbrook region.

His request was simple: “We don’t have a newspaper here anymore; I’ve seen what you’re doing with Burdekin Life Newspaper and I’m calling to see if you’d do the same in our region.”

At the time, representatives from Life Publishing Group were on the Sunshine Coast for the Queensland Country Press Awards and, unbeknownst to them, they were about to win Best Free Newspaper in QLD for the Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper. But, despite being thrilled to win on the night, the real prize has always been bigger than awards.

The mission of this young, vibrant, independent publishing group is clear: give the community a free voice in print. Every printed newspaper is free to pick up, every online article free to read. No paywalls—just local news, written for and about local people.

Life Publishing papers stand apart for their uplifting, positive storytelling, avoiding shock tactics while reporting fairly, respectfully and with kindness.

“At the heart of our newspapers is good news,” said Editor-in-Chief Rachael Smith.

“We believe that community news should be uplifting; it is there to connect the community, document local history as it happens, and become a source of local pride.”

Since launching on Tuesday 26th November 2024, Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper has been dedicated to these core foundations and has, over the last year, ingratiated itself within the community.

The path, however, has not always been straightforward. Just 10 weeks after the newspaper launched, the biggest floods in a generation hit the region and the lives of people, businesses, and even the newspaper came to a grinding halt.

Hinchinbrook Life’s on-the-ground journalist, Daniel Heggie, was marooned in Forrest Beach, and there was a period where it was almost impossible to get news out.

In addition, many local businesses—who are at the heart of bringing the newspaper to the community by booking advertising—were on the point of closure.

“It was very scary at the time,” shared Rachael.

“We did the only thing we could think of doing to help, and that was to run a special Flood Edition of the newspaper, documenting the disaster as it unfolded. For many residents who did not have power, that first flood edition could have been some of the first footage they had seen of the event.”

Over the following weeks, as normality began to return, the newspaper stood strong as a place for people to connect and share stories.

“The next few months were a real turning point for us,” explained Rachael.

“We were becoming a central part of the community, it felt like a big communal hug was enveloping everyone and we were a part of that.”

Another huge milestone for Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper was the official launch event held at the Herbert River Sub-Branch RSL Club.

“It was an absolute honour to have the Premier of Queensland and Hinchinbrook local, David Crisafulli, open the event – we invited him on a whim and were beyond ecstatic when he accepted.

“Having David endorse the paper was really special, and we are thrilled to receive his ongoing support to this day.”

“As we celebrate the completion of our first year, we would like to say a big thank you to everyone in the community – to all the readers for enthusiastically picking up the paper every week, to all our loyal advertisers for choosing to support the paper, and to the Councils and local Chambers for their alliance.

“Lastly, I would like to thank our on-the-ground team – Sherie Hensler-Adams for her passion for the community and for working closely with local businesses to deliver advertising with care and kindness.

"Also, to our dynamic journalist Victoria Velton, who is everywhere and anywhere taking photos and writing stories. Victoria is diligent and kind, two characteristics I greatly admire.

"Thanks also to our broader office team who work behind the scenes every week, and to Trish Jandt and Daniel Heggie, who were a central part of the initial launch team.

"We have had a wonderful first year and look forward to many more years to come!"

A modern pontoon project is now underway at Dungeness, thanks to a $454,000 investment from the Crisafulli Government in partnership with Council, providing safer and more efficient access for marine operations at the gateway to the Hinchinbrook Channel.

The new pontoon on Denney Street is designed to support commercial operators and boost economic benefits for the community and will make marine access easier and more efficient for businesses that rely on it.

Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg said the Crisafulli Government was proud to be supporting regional Queensland communities.

“This upgrade is being funded through the Crisafulli Government’s Transport Infrastructure Development Scheme in partnership with Hinchinbrook Shire Council,” Minister Mickelberg said.

"It’s a great example of how we’re backing the Hinchinbrook community with practical infrastructure that makes a real difference. In just our first year, we’ve focused on delivering projects that matter, and we will continue to do so as we advocate around the decision-making table."

Hinchinbrook Shire Council Mayor Ramon Jayo said the pontoon reinforces Dungeness as a key departure point for Hinchinbrook Island, the reef, and the region’s world-class fishing grounds.

“This pontoon project is just the start of our plans for this beautiful area many locals call home,” Mayor Jayo said.

“This project complements our advocacy efforts to secure real investment in infrastructure upgrades.

“These include the Dungeness Marine Access and Lucinda Sewage projects.

“Together, these initiatives represent a commitment to a thriving future where visitors and locals can enjoy world-class experiences in a pristine environment.”

The 13-metre new pontoon will help strengthen Dungeness as a destination, boost tourism, and deliver economic benefits for the whole region.

Fabrication of the gangway and pontoon is currently in progress, with delivery of the piles and pontoon scheduled later this month.

Arborist, piling works and earthworks will follow. Installation of the abutment and gangway will complete the upgrade, with all works expected to finish before the Christmas break, weather permitting.

The structure measures 13m in length and 3m in width. It weighs 12,889kg and has a flotation area of approximately 37 sq m.

Dogs, wildlife and aggressive people are among the leading causes of incidents involving Ergon crews and contractors across Queensland.

After 289 reported incidents state-wide in the last 12 months, Ergon’s metering contracts manager Sarah Bradford is appealing to customers to do their bit to keep workers safe.

“One of the biggest hazards we are facing in the field has nothing to do with electricity at all – it’s actually our customers.

“The type of abuse and threatening behaviour being reported really does pose an additional risk to our crews that we don’t need, whether it’s meter readers, maintenance workers or in an emergency response situation."

Network contact centre staff have also been copping abuse and threats over the phone in a year when they supported Queenslanders through Cyclone Alfred and major flood events.

“Our 24/7 Faults Team is taking calls about life-threatening emergencies at all hours, and they deserve to be treated with the same respect and courtesy they give to customers,” Sarah said.

Aggressive animals are a constant threat to crews on the frontline of customer service. In the last year there have been 148 dog-related incidents and 60 incidents related to wildlife.

“While you may not see your pet as a threat, experience tells us that any dog can pose a risk, regardless of size or temperament."

“We’re asking customers to ensure their pets and livestock are locked up and completely separated from worksites to provide a safe environment for our crews and meter readers.

“If we cannot confirm safe access to your meter or other equipment, we will not risk entering your premises to do any work.

“We are sincerely grateful to the majority of people who are doing the right thing to keep everyone safe, and we hope we can get through to the minority who aren’t,” Sarah said.

For more information on safe entry, visit Safe entry to your property | Ergon Energy.

Hinchinbrook Shire Council is calling for more than $22 million in investment to upgrade Lucinda’s sewage network and deliver reliable marine access at Forrest Beach, securing growth and connectivity for the region’s coastal communities.

The call comes ahead of the Hinchinbrook state by-election, with voters heading to the polls later this month.

Mayor Ramon Jayo said investment is essential to make Lucinda and Forrest Beach among the best places to live, thrive, and relax as a gateway to some of Queensland’s most iconic fishing destinations.

“Imagine working out west and coming home to paradise on your days off, where the ocean meets the cane fields. Infrastructure makes this lifestyle possible,” Mayor Jayo said.

“These projects in Lucinda and Forrest Beach will strengthen Hinchinbrook’s position as one of North Queensland’s most desirable lifestyle regions — a place where opportunity meets natural beauty.”

Lucinda is a gateway to world-class fishing and a community ready to grow. Council is calling for $18 million to upgrade sewage capacity through a new trunk network and treatment plant. They're also seeking $4 million to relocate the Cassady Creek boat ramp and $750,000 for a business case and environmental approvals for new ramp and jetty facilities. These prjects will unlock housing potential, boost tourism, and attract new residents who want to live where the coast meets the cane fields.

Mayor Jayo said the call for investment isn’t just about convenience.

"This is about unlocking opportunity for tourism, emergency response, and community growth," Mayor Jayo said.

The Hinchinbrook state by-election will be held on Saturday, 29 November 2025. Visit https://www.ecq.qld.gov.au/elections/election-events/hinchinbrook-by-election on the Electoral Commission Queensland website.