At Mrs B’s Café, they know that the perfect day begins with the perfect coffee.  

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That’s why they've been working behind the scenes to create an elevated brew, featuring specialty beans from Townsville's Long Shot Coffee Co, roasted in small batches using ethically sourced beans, with a focus on freshness and flavour. These new beans will be brought to life by a new espresso machine and high-quality grinder.  

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The result: richer, smoother coffee, that extracts the full character of every bean.  

Whether you favour a flat white, latte or frothy cappuccino, every coffee is crafted with care and served with warm hospitality.

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Of course, great coffee deserves equally good food. Mrs B's serves breakfast favourites alongside a selection of light lunches – try the burgers, featuring handmade patties with locally butchered meat.  

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The display cabinet is constantly evolving, with fresh treats like cakes and slices, grab-and-go savouries and seasonal specials, ensuring there's always something different to tempt returning visitors.  

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One pairing the team recommends is a pretty little pink Peach Blossom and a smooth cappuccino, a combination that perfectly captures the café's relaxed approach to good food and good coffee.

Whether you're calling in for breakfast, meeting friends over lunch or simply chasing your morning caffeine fix, Mrs B's latest upgrade is well worth discovering. With a new roast, new equipment and a passion for getting every cup right, Mrs B's is giving locals and visitors another reason to linger a little longer over their morning coffee.

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Jules and Kate of Jules Fashion in Mission Beach. Photo supplied

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Stepping into Jules in Mission Beach is like stepping into your dream wardrobe, filled with colour, personality and pieces chosen to make you feel your best. Filled with clothing, accessories and gifts that capture the relaxed spirit of tropical North Queensland, the boutique has become a favourite stop for locals and visitors alike.

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Whether you're searching for an easy everyday outfit, a standout dress for a special occasion, or something fun for your next holiday, Jules offers a collection designed to suit every style. Flowing dresses, stylish tops, lightweight layers and eye-catching accessories sit alongside a thoughtful range of unique gifts and homewares, making every visit a chance to discover something new.

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With fresh arrivals landing regularly, the boutique is constantly evolving. New seasonal collections and carefully selected pieces keep the racks full of inspiration, whether you're refreshing your wardrobe or searching for the perfect present.

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Rather than chasing fleeting fashion trends, Jules focuses on timeless, wearable pieces that celebrate individuality, comfort and confidence, making it easy to find something that feels uniquely you.

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Central in Mission Beach, the boutique is the perfect place to browse after a morning coffee, before lunch with friends or while exploring the village's collection of local businesses. Whether you're a local looking for your next favourite outfit or a visitor wanting to take home something special, Jules offers a colourful shopping experience that's every bit as warm and welcoming as Mission Beach itself.

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Queensland Parks and Wildlife Services’ Chris Roach (left) and Kim Gray (right) with Terrain NRM’s Deb Bass. Photo supplied

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One of Australia’s most threatened ecosystems is being restored in a project that’s bringing organisations together at Kurrimine Beach, south of Innisfail.  

Targeted conservation work in Kurrimine Beach National Park is safeguarding the largest remaining area of littoral rainforest in the Wet Tropics region.  

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Often described as “where the rainforest meets the reef”, littoral rainforest grows close to the sea — typically within two kilometres of the coast — along the east coast in areas ranging from headlands to sand and coral rubble. It’s listed nationally as critically endangered.  

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Terrain NRM has partnered with the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, Traditional Owners and other land managers to protect and restore littoral rainforest at Kurrimine Beach.

Terrain NRM Project Coordinator Tony O’Malley said weeds and feral pigs are the most immediate threats to the ecosystem.  

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“Invasive plants are a major issue, with many species washing ashore, particularly coconuts and Singapore daisy,’’ he said.  

“However, this national park is a rare stretch of coastline that remains largely free from coconut palms, which are dominating littoral rainforest in other areas.  

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“Feral pig trapping has also been a key focus. This coastline is an important sea turtle nesting area, and pigs pose a significant threat by digging up and consuming turtle eggs.  

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“Since it grows along the coast, littoral rainforest also faces significant development pressure, compounded by climate change, rising sea levels, storm surges and receding shorelines. It’s important that we work together to protect what remains and plan for future growth so the forest can thrive.”  

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Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service’s Resource Ranger Chris Roach said the littoral rainforest at Kurrimine Beach National Park is a high conservation priority.  

“This is the largest remaining area of this threatened ecosystem in the Wet Tropics, making its protection critically important,” he said.  

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“Terrain NRM’s Forest Resilience project has brought land managers and Traditional Owners together to reduce the impacts of weeds and feral pigs, while supporting actions under the National Littoral Rainforest Recovery Plan.”  

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Beyond on-ground works, the program is building community awareness about the importance of littoral rainforest.  

Terrain NRM has developed an online resource including a booklet and location-based factsheets for littoral rainforest hotspots, which can be found at terrain.org.au/littoral-rainforest  

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Locals can help to protect littoral rainforest by being responsible with garden waste (taking it to your nearest council transfer station), by being on the lookout for plants that might be weeds at the edges of forests and by supporting restoration efforts.  

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Terrain NRM’s Forest Resilience project is funded through the Australian Government’s Saving Native Species Program. The project applies a whole-of-ecosystem approach to improve the condition the Eastern Forests of Far North Queensland priority place identified in the Australian Government’s Threatened Species Action Plan 2022-2032.

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(Contributed with thanks by Terrain NRM)

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One hundred years of service, sacrifice and community spirit were celebrated last week as Tully Ambulance Station reached its centenary. The milestone brought together past and present ambulance personnel to reflect on a proud history that began with local fundraising and horse-drawn transport and continues today with world-class emergency care.

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A Century Since Tully Answered The First Call For Help

"The spirit that has defined Tully Ambulance Station for a century has no signs of slowing down." Brina Keating

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For 100 years, the Tully Ambulance Service has answered the call.

Day and night, through floods and cyclones, celebrations and tragedies, generations of paramedics, drivers, volunteers and support staff have stood ready to help their community.  

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On Wednesday 1st July, past and present members came together to celebrate the remarkable centenary milestone.

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The celebration brought together retired officers, former staff, local dignitaries, members of the Local Ambulance Committee and current paramedics, many travelling from across Queensland to honour a station that has become renowned not only for its history, but for the people who have called it home.

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Before there was a dedicated ambulance station, the service began as a first aid post at the Tully Sugar Mill. As the district grew, so too did the need for emergency medical care. Rather than waiting for outside assistance, local residents took matters into their own hands.

"It was community driven. There was a need. The community rallied together, they fundraised, they purchased their own vehicles, supplies and equipment," said Far Northern Region Assistant Commissioner Brina Keating.

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It began with horse-drawn transport, which later gave way to motor vehicles, as volunteers became highly-trained paramedics and medical equipment evolved beyond anything those early pioneers could have imagined.

Modern ambulances now carry advanced cardiac monitoring equipment, four-wheel drive capability and technology that links paramedics directly with Queensland Health while en route to hospital.

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Despite those changes, Heritage and History Manager Mick Davis believes one thing has remained remarkably consistent in Tully.

"You can measure a hundred years in buildings and vehicles, but the real history is found in the people who answered the calls and the community that supported them," he said.

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Unlike many ambulance stations across Queensland, where staff frequently transfer between locations, Mr Davis said Tully has become a place where people choose to stay.

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"It means your community has accepted you. It means that you've contributed in a very significant way to this community."

Mr Davis also noted the remarkable commitment of the Tully Local Ambulance Committee, with many members dedicating decades of service to supporting the station and its staff.

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"I think it's very important today in acknowledging 100 years, because in all of that, Tully has had a steady, reliable and capable level of service," he said.

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"It's a tribute to all of those who've been here and served Tully from day one to today."

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Current Officer in Charge Vanessa Schafranek was recognised throughout the celebration for continuing that legacy. Recently awarded the Ambulance Service Medal, Ms Schafranek was praised for her leadership and deep connection to both the station and the community.

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"It's not just a job for Vanessa; this is part of her way of life. It is part of her family and connection to her community."

Among those returning for the celebration was former Officer in Charge Bob McIlroy, who transferred to Tully in 1992 after serving in Blackwater.

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Standing alongside retired paramedic Ronald Allport, Mr McIlroy reflected on both the remarkable changes and familiar traditions that have shaped the station.

Mr Allport described seeing the station celebrate its centenary as "a dream come true", noting that while today's paramedics work with vastly different equipment, many of the routines remain surprisingly familiar, with equipment checks and daily preparation still taking place in much the same way they always have.

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Cassowary Coast Mayor Teresa Millwood also acknowledged the milestone, thanking generations of ambulance personnel for their dedication.

"Thank you to those who are serving today, and we look forward with confidence to the next 100 years of outstanding service," she said.

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"Congratulations on this extraordinary achievement and thank you for your unwavering dedication to our community."

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As guests browsed historical photographs, memorabilia and stories collected across the past century, one theme echoed throughout the afternoon. While ambulances have become faster, equipment more sophisticated and medicine more advanced, the relationship between the people of Tully and their ambulance service remains much the same as it was 100 years ago.

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It was built by the community, sustained by the community and will continue to serve the community for years to come.

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See all photos here: https://www.hinchinbrooklife.com/social-pics/a-century-of-saving-lives-tully-honours-100-years-of-its-ambulance-service

The 40mm Bofors Gun on the move to get its coating in Ingham. Photo supplied

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After months of careful restoration, the Cardwell RSL Sub Branch's historic 40mm Bofors Gun is nearing the finish line.

The World War II relic has now been sent to Ingham for its final sandblasting and powder coating before returning to Cardwell, where it will take pride of place alongside the Sub Branch's mural at 36 Roma Street.

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Manufactured in Nottingham, United Kingdom, in 1940, the gun serves as a lasting reminder of Australia's wartime history and the very real threat faced along the North Queensland coastline during 1942 and 1943, when Japanese forces came dangerously close to Australian shores.

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Preserving pieces of military history remains an important part of the Cardwell RSL Sub Branch's commitment to honouring the service and sacrifice of those who served, ensuring future generations can connect with the stories that helped shape the nation.

The community is invited to celebrate the completion of the restoration at the official unveiling ceremony, to be held at 12:00pm on Sunday 12^th July at the Cardwell RSL Sub Branch, 36 Roma Street, Cardwell.

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Everyone is welcome to attend this special occasion as the restored Bofors Gun is officially unveiled and begins its next chapter as a permanent reminder of the region's wartime history.

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Lest We Forget.

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WHAT: 40mm Bofors Gun Unveiling Ceremony
WHEN: Sunday 12th July 2026, 12:00pm
WHERE: Cardwell RSL Sub Branch, 36 Roma Street, Cardwell

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The transformation of the Halifax Hotel continues, as one of the district's most recognisable pubs steadily returns to the heart of the community.

Following months of rebuilding, repainting and restoring, the hotel has welcomed locals back through its doors with a refreshed look, an expanded drinks selection and exciting plans still to come.

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One of the hotel’s core values is supporting local producers, a mission it is furthering by showcasing and vending North Queensland products- like the range of condiments from Ingham's Livia's Sauces now available for purchase. Customers can choose from the fiery Black Sauce Hot, the classic Black Sauce Worcestershire and the ever-popular Kilpatrick Sauce.

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Behind the bar, beer lovers now have even more choice, with the number of taps doubling from eight to 16. Alongside the classics, patrons will find a wider-than-ever selection of beers, cocktails and bottle shop favourites to enjoy.

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But the biggest changes are still on the horizon. Rather than simply refreshing the existing outdoor area, recent building inspections uncovered structural issues that have led the Halifax Hotel team to rethink the next stage of the redevelopment. As a result, plans are now being redesigned to deliver an entirely new kitchen, dining room and alfresco beer garden, creating a modern space that will better serve the community for many years to come.

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While this has extended the timeline for the next stage of works, it also presents an exciting opportunity to build something even better than originally planned. As designs are finalised and approvals progress, locals can look forward to a purpose-built hospitality space that reflects the future vision of the Halifax Hotel.

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The Halifax Hotel is fast becoming the place to be for Friday nights, with NRL action shown live and loud on the big screens. Pair the footy with one of the hotel's popular $10 Steak and Slaw sangas and an ice-cold drink, and you've found the perfect way to kick off the weekend.

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With more developments still to come, cold drinks on tap, and exciting new spaces taking shape, there's never been a better time to drop into the Halifax Hotel and see what's new. Stop by and catch up with the mates, grab a meal or cheer on your team- every visit offers another glimpse at the next chapter of this iconic local pub.

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The Rotary Club of Hinchinbrook marked the beginning of a new Rotary year during its annual presidential changeover dinner at the Herbert River RSL Club on Wednesday, 1st July. 60 members and guests came together to celebrate over 80 years of Rotary in the district, with a number of Past District Governors from Townsville and Southern Queensland joining the dinner.

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The evening celebrated the club's achievements over the past 12 months before Madeleine D'Urso was officially inducted as president, taking over the role from Sari Russo for the 2026-27 Rotary year.

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As part of the traditional ceremony, the outgoing president reflected on the year's projects and community service, before formally handing over the chain of office. The club also introduced its new board and recognised members for their ongoing commitment to serving the Hinchinbrook community.

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Several donations were presented to local organisations during the evening, continuing the club's long-standing commitment to supporting community groups and initiatives throughout the district.

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Rotarians, partners and guests gathered to celebrate the leadership transition and look ahead to another year of service under the club's new president.

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In the last year the club had been involved with events such as Maraka, Tyto Gallery Openings, Meals on Wheels, The Frank Fraser Primary School Lecturette Competition, Forrest Beach Progress Association Christmas Carols, Hinchinbrook Shire Christmas Carols, Nursing Home Christmas Carols, Tones & I Concert, ANZAC Day Parade Marshalling & Assistance, Ingham Sugar City Rodeo, NQ Field Days and most recently the Ingham Show where they had now Past District Governor Greg Marlow helping with the lunchtime rush.  They have also had a number ofsocial events.

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The club meets the 2^nd & 4^th Wednesdays of each month and will follow the new Rotary International President as they strive to "Create Lasting Impact".

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See more photos here: https://www.hinchinbrooklife.com/social-pics/rotary-club-welcomes-new-president-at-annual-changeover

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Join Regional Development Australia Townsville and North West Queensland (RDA TNWQ), Regional Economic Advisory (REA) for a free community insights session hosted by the Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Tourism.

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Hear from guest speakers Dr Lisa McDonald, Chief Executive Officer, RDA TNWQ, Matthew Kelly, Principal Economist, REA, and Emma Dobbins, Project Manager, JTNQ, as they share the latest economic, workforce and investment insights shaping the Hinchinbrook region.

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The session includes a panel discussion with regional leaders, providing the opportunity to ask questions, discuss local economic trends and regional activity, and connect with fellow business, industry, government and community representatives over light refreshments and networking. This is a free event, registration is required at https://tinyurl.com/2y2lcne2 or by searching ‘2026 State of the Region Roadshow - Hinchinbrook Insights Session’ on eventbrite.

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WHAT: State Of The Region Roadshow Insights Session
WHEN: Tuesday, 21 July 2026, 5:00pm
WHERE: The Powerhouse, Ingham

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While the overall threatened status of the Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo is listed as “Least Concern” in the EPBC act, the South-eastern Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo is listed as ‘Endangered’ and the ‘Forest Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo’ of WA is listed as ‘Vulnerable’. A Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo feeding at Forrest Beach. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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Australia’s unique birdlife is facing a new challenge after the Federal Government confirmed the detection of H5N1 avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, in a migratory Brown Skua found in south-west Western Australia. The detection marks the first confirmed arrival of this strain in Australia.

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While the virus has not yet been detected in Queensland, local wildlife groups and authorities are reminding residents and visitors to be aware of the signs of illness in birds and avoid contact with sick or deceased wildlife.

Across the world, H5N1 has caused significant impacts, with millions of wild birds and tens of thousands of mammals affected. Australia is home to some of the world’s most distinctive bird species, many of which rely on healthy ecosystems to survive. Around one in six Australian bird species is already considered threatened with extinction, highlighting the importance of protecting habitats and supporting wildlife resilience.

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Residents are reminded not to handle sick or dead birds or wildlife. If you spot affected animals, record what you observe where safe to do so, including the species, location, date, time and number of animals affected. Do not touch or collect the birds, report it.

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Sightings of sick or deceased wildlife can be reported to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

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Human infections from avian influenza remain rare in Australia. Overseas cases have generally occurred following close contact with infected birds, animals or contaminated environments. People who develop flu-like symptoms after handling birds or wildlife should seek medical advice.

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Anyone who works with or is regularly in close contact with birds is encouraged to stay up to date with their influenza vaccination. While the seasonal flu vaccine does not protect against bird flu, it does help reduce the risk of becoming unwell with both viruses at the same time.

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For more information, please visit the Australian Centre for Disease Control website.

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(Information provided with thanks by the Hinchinbrook Local Disaster Management Group & BirdLife Australia)

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Hello Hinchinbrook, the Disaster Ready Fund (DRF) is the Australian Government’s flagship initiative for disaster resilience and risk reduction.

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The Australian Government is providing up to one billion dollars through the DRF. The funding runs over five years from 1^st July 2023.

Disaster Ready Fund Round Four 2026–27 application proposals closed on 1^st July 2026.

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The funding supports projects that address the physical and social impacts of disasters on our communities, including disasters caused by climate change and other natural hazards.

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In addition to the Australian Government assessment criteria, Queensland will prioritise projects that demonstrate the following priorities:

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• How strongly the project contributes to addressing local and regional disaster risk priorities and demonstrates that the proposed risk mitigation measure is a priority for the local or regional community. This includes projects that:

    -   are included in Council’s endorsed Local Resilience Action Plans (LRAPs);

    -  are included in other local disaster risk management plans or strategies; and

    -  address identified needs and risks identified in the 2023 State Disaster Risk Report or local risk assessments.

• How effectively the project aligns with relevant Queensland disaster and resilience strategies and plans.

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The Queensland Reconstruction Authority (QRA) is the lead agency for Queensland, responsible for coordinating DRF proposals and submitting applications to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) on behalf of the State.

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QRA undertakes an indicative assessment to identify projects for NEMA to assess. Ultimately, NEMA makes the final decision. QRA is an impartial entity in this process and, to ensure fairness and equality are applied across the applicant base, cannot support individual applicants in developing the content of their application.

This information session is the primary source of information for all applicants. Incomplete applications will not be assessed. If a proposed project does not align with the Guidelines and the eligibility criteria detailed within them, it will not be assessed.

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Queensland can only send 30 applications to NEMA for Round 4. Ministerial and Premier endorsement will be sought for the final 30 applications before they are sent to NEMA for consideration.

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The DRF is extremely competitive. For example, in Round 3, QRA received almost 200 applications. Of these, 62 were sent to NEMA for consideration and fewer than 18 were ultimately funded. Of the $200 million available across the entire country in Round 3, Queensland received $51.4 million.

Eligible applicants include River Improvement Trusts constituted under the River Improvement Trust Act 1940. Currently, the Herbert River Improvement Trust (HRIT) has more than 64 sites, at an estimated cost of approximately $8.6 million, that have been inspected and costed. Some of these projects have been put forward and, hopefully, will be successful in receiving funding.

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Once again, it is great to be able to pick up a copy of Hinchinbrook Life and read through what has been happening and what will happen throughout our Shire. Thank you once again for the opportunity.

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Phosphate Hill. Photo sourced: Incitec Pivot Fertilisers

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The future of fertiliser supplies for Herbert cane growers has received a major boost after the Federal and State governments announced a jointly funded $160 million loan package to secure the ongoing operation of the Phosphate Hill fertiliser facility.

The agreement follows the sale of Phosphate Hill to Mayfair and is expected to safeguard the nation's only domestic ammonium fertiliser producer while protecting hundreds of regional jobs.

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For Hinchinbrook, the announcement provides confidence that locally produced phosphate will continue supplying fertiliser blends used extensively across the district's cane farms.

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Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa welcomed the announcement.

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"This is what securing the future looks like. The Crisafulli Government's $160 million commitment to secure Phosphate Hill is fantastic news for North and North West Queensland.  

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“It shows the Government is backing our communities, protecting regional jobs and investing in industries that matter. Phosphate Hill produces around one million tonnes of fertiliser each year and is a critical part of Australia's sovereign manufacturing capability. This is about securing industry, supporting regional development and providing confidence for our future."

Hinchinbrook Shire Mayor Ramon Jayo, who is also a local cane farmer, said the continued operation of Phosphate Hill was vital for the district because of its reliance on phosphate fertiliser.

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"I am very pleased to see that Phosphate Hill will continue operating following considerable negotiations, as it plays an integral role in producing the phosphate component used in fertiliser blends that are applied extensively throughout our district due to the nature of our phosphate-deficient soils."

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Mayor Jayo said fertiliser produced from the facility formed a key part of the local agricultural supply chain.

"Phosphate product from Phosphate Hill, as well as being exported overseas, is blended with urea at the Port of Townsville to create fertiliser blends used by our farmers."

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He said retaining domestic production would help shield growers from volatile international markets.

"The fact that this product will continue to be sourced domestically, rather than imported from overseas, will help ensure costs to farmers remain lower and less volatile than what has been experienced with urea over recent years."

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"The ability to continue sourcing phosphate from our wider region rather than overseas is a good gain for our district, and we look forward to governments continuing to work with the industry to further drive prices down through the reduction of energy costs, particularly gas, for the benefit of our regional industries."

Mayor Jayo said the importance of domestic fertiliser production had become increasingly apparent following the closure of Australian urea manufacturing and recent global supply disruptions.

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"Many would remember that it was not that long ago that urea was produced in Brisbane until high energy costs led to those operations closing, forcing greater reliance on imports from overseas."

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"More recently, global supply pressures and conflicts in the Middle East have contributed to significant price increases."

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"Our country, let alone our region, needs to avoid this if farmers are to remain sustainable."

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He said local representatives had been advocating for the facility since uncertainty emerged around the future of the Mount Isa operations last year.

"When concerns about the future of the Mount Isa operations first emerged last year, I joined a North West Queensland delegation in Canberra to highlight the impacts any closure could have on regional communities, industry and agriculture."

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"One of the key issues raised was the importance of maintaining local fertiliser supply chains and protecting the industries that support them."

"This announcement not only secures an important facility for regional Queensland, it also provides greater certainty for farmers, local industry and the broader economy into the future."

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The joint government package will support the modernisation of the Phosphate Hill facility and provide assistance to manage rising sulphur costs, which have increased sharply due to conflict in the Middle East. The agreement is expected to secure more than 500 direct jobs at Phosphate Hill while also supporting the ongoing operation of the Mount Isa Copper Smelter and Townsville Refinery, which rely on the facility as part of North West Queensland's interconnected industrial network.

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Martha is a sweet little girl with a loving nature, full of purrs, head bumps and affection. Once she knows you, she absolutely adores her people and enjoys being close to them whenever she can.

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This lovely girl is also quite talkative and will happily answer when called by name, adding plenty of personality and charm to your home. At night, Martha loves nothing more than snuggling up beside her foster mum on the bed.

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Martha would thrive in a calm and peaceful home where she can feel secure and loved. She is also a grazer, preferring to nibble on her meals throughout the day.

Martha came into foster care with her special friend, Milah, and the two share a beautiful bond. They take comfort in each other's company, making them a wonderful pair. If Martha and Milah could find a forever home together, it would be truly extra special.

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ADOPTION FEE: $210 Martha's adoption fee includes desexing, microchipping, up-to-date vaccinations, and flea, tick and intestinal worm treatment.

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SEX: Female
BREED: Domestic Short Hair
COLOUR: Tuxedo
DOB: 25/09/2022
CAT FRIENDLY: Yes
DOG FRIENDLY: Unsure
KID FRIENDLY: Yes

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The Fresh start Academy team and their truck full of equipment. Photo sourced: Facebook

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A generous act of kindness has left more than a few people smiling, with the team from Fresh Start Academy travelling from Townsville to provide free haircuts for the Hinchinbrook community.

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Hosted by the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre, the pop-up event gave locals the opportunity to enjoy a free, fresh haircut.

The Centre thanked the Fresh Start Academy team for generously donating their time, skills and passion, as well as making the journey north to support the local community.

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Every haircut was tailored to individual requests, with the team ensuring each person left feeling comfortable, confident and cared for.

The Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre said the academy's kindness and dedication made a real difference to everyone who attended and expressed its appreciation for the team's willingness to invest in regional communities.

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Fresh Start Academy continues to make a positive impact through its community-focused work, and the Centre wished the organisation every success as it continues to grow.

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Sometimes the smallest gestures leave the greatest impact, and for those who received a fresh haircut, the visit was a welcome reminder of the generosity and goodwill.

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The Cassowary Coast Regional Council has adopted a $196.8 million budget for 2026-27, with a strong focus on flood resilience, infrastructure upgrades and town centre revitalisation while keeping rate increases in line with inflation.

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Mayor Teresa Millwood said the budget had been developed during a period of global economic uncertainty, with international events continuing to place pressure on households, businesses and councils alike.

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"This year's budget comes at a time of uncertainty, with the conflict in the Middle East impacting our economy," Mayor Millwood said.

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"Despite the challenges, we're committed to keeping costs down as much as possible – and we've looked very closely at how we can be more efficient and innovative."

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More than $80.6 million has been allocated to capital works across the region, including road and bridge upgrades, drainage improvements, footpaths and water infrastructure. The capital program includes about $38 million in external funding.

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Council will also spend $116 million delivering day-to-day services, including libraries, swimming pools, waste collection, emergency management, community grants, environmental programs and maintenance of public facilities and open spaces.

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Flood mitigation remains a major priority following a series of severe weather events in recent years.

"We've committed over $4 million in 2026-27 to deliver vital drainage upgrades across the Cassowary Coast," Mayor Millwood said.

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Projects include works in Cardwell, Mourilyan, Flying Fish Point, Mission Beach and Silkwood, while investigations will continue into drainage solutions for Mill Street in Mourilyan and Goondi Bend in Innisfail.

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More than $30 million has also been committed to maintaining and upgrading roads, bridges and pathways, including upgrades to Bowen Street, Jubilee Road, Scougal Road, Granadilla Road and Stephenson Road.

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Council has retained its rates discount for residents who pay on time, with owner-occupied general rates increasing by five per cent.

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"For the majority of owner-occupiers, this means the average general rate increase will be $90 per year – equal to $1.73 per week," Mayor Millwood said.

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Waste charges will rise by 5.5 per cent, which Council says reflects cost recovery only. For most households, this equates to an additional $37 a year, or about 71 cents a week. To help residents prepare for the wet season and clean up after storms, two free waste vouchers will be included annually with rate notices. Council has also allocated more than $8 million to maintain the region's water network, which includes 31 reservoirs, 13 pumping stations and more than 830 kilometres of water mains.

Mayor Millwood said maintaining ageing infrastructure remained one of Council's biggest responsibilities.

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"We've tried very hard to find ways to keep water charges down. However, we have inherited ageing infrastructure, and we must invest in its renewal," she said.

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The budget also continues investment in housing developments at Daradgee Estate and Eaton Estate, support for local businesses, environmental initiatives and community programs, while work on revitalising the Innisfail CBD will continue with more than $4 million earmarked for streetscape improvements, parking upgrades and pedestrian safety.

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"This budget is all about working towards our vision for the Cassowary Coast to be the most liveable tropical community," Mayor Millwood said.

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This snapshot covers specific Cassowary Coast 2026-2027 state budget announcements. Region-wide announcements can be found overleaf on Page 6 of Hinchinbrook Life, and a more expanded overview can be found at budget.qld.gov.au

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Specific Local Targets

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Innisfail Courthouse

Commencing remediation works at the Innisfail Courthouse ($1 million over one year).

Port Hinchinbrook Revitalisation

Delivering dredging and remediation works as part of the Port Hinchinbrook Revitalisation Project, to restore safe navigability, address longstanding environmental liabilities and enable activation of the Port Hinchinbrook Provisional Priority Development Area ($64 million over two years).

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