Hello, my name is Sunny, and here are a few things I’d love you to know about me: I can be a little shy at first, so I’ll need my human to show some patience while I settle in. When we first meet, I prefer to be the one to decide when I’m ready for a cuddle, but don’tworry, I do enjoy affection once I feel comfortable.

Treats definitely help break the ice (just saying), and I’m a big fan of gentle head scratches.

I’m quite happy spending time outdoors if that suits your lifestyle, but fair warning... if I think I’ve been invited inside, there’s a very good chance I’ll claim your couch—or even your bed—as my new favourite spot!

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Walks are one of my favourite things, and I’m great on the lead. I’ve also got lovely manners, I’ll sit and wait patiently for my meals, and when food is involved, I’m always extra eager to show off my best behaviour.

If you’re looking for a sweet, well-mannered companion who just needs a little time to shine, I might be your perfect match!

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If you’re interested in meeting me complete an animal enquiry form at: https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html.  

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Included in adoption fee of $600: desexed, micro-chipped, up to date vaccinations, flea/tick/intestinal worm treated & on Proheart.

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DOB: 1/12/2022
Sex: Female
Breed: American bulldog
Colour: White & Black
Kid friendly: Yes
Cat Friendly: Yes
Other dogs: Yes
Fences: 5ft
BIN: BIN0000268254643

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CapA POLAIR Helicopter flying over the coastal regions. Photo credit: Queensland Police

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Aerial policing capability in North Queensland has been strengthened, with POLAIR’s operations in North Queensland have now transitioned to a full operating capability to crack down on serious crime incidents.

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The POLAIR team of Tactical Flight Officers operate across a large area, from Proserpine to Ingham and west to Charters Towers, significantly bolstering the ability of police to respond to critical incidents, tracking stolen vehicles, responding to serious domestic incidents, searching for missing persons and assisting with the arrest of offenders

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Now allowing for continuous coverage, ensuring aerial support remains available even during maintenance periods. Equipped with advanced technology, including Forward Looking Infrared (FLIR) cameras, the helicopters provide real-time information to officers on the ground, improving response times and operational safety.

Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa said the investment reflects a commitment to community safety.

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“The addition of two new POLAIR helicopters demonstrates the Crisafulli Government’s commitment to protecting the safety of Queenslanders by resourcing our Police with the tools they need to fight crime and make our communities safer.”

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Since the beginning of 2025, POLAIR has responded to more than 1,100 calls for service in the region, assisted in hundreds of arrests, and played a key role in responding to serious incidents.

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Members of the Ingham Lions Club gathered at the park before the Ingham ANZAC Day march. Photo sourced: Ingham Lions Club

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The Lions Clubs of North Queensland are making a significant impact on families affected by the devastating floods of February 2025 through their ‘Adopt a Family’ initiative, supported by grants from the Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF). This program aims to assistfamilies who have faced the hardships of natural disasters, providing up to $1,000 per family to help with the purchase of essential items like white goods, bedding, and other necessities from local suppliers.

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The Lions Club of Ingham has proudly received two grants from LCIF following the flooding, enabling them to aid families in their recovery efforts. The geographical reach of this initiative spans from north of Tully to south of Ingham, focusing on those who are in the process of returning to their homes after remediation works.

Since the first grant was awarded in late July 2025, Lions Clubs have successfully assisted 261 families – of approximately 850 individuals – with a total outlay of $224,374 to local suppliers. This financial support has been crucial in enabling families to resettle into their residences, fostering a sense of normalcy after the disruption caused by the floods.

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The generosity of Lions members from around the globe has fuelled this initiative, with donations directed to LCIF specifically for disaster relief efforts. Local Lions Clubs, including Ingham, Lower Herbert Halifax, Cardwell, Tully, and Mission Beach, have played an instrumental role in processing applications and facilitating payments to suppliers.

The support extended by local hubs in Ingham, Tully and Cardwell, as well as the numerous local suppliers, has been invaluable. The Lions acknowledge that the success of this program would not have been possible without the friendly and knowledgeable assistance from these groups.

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As the need for assistance decreases, the Grants program has concluded at the end of this March and applications received by Lions up to and including 31 March 2026 will be processed.

President of the Ingham Lions Club Silvia Poggio said the program brought much hope to the families.

“The “Adopt a Family” program stands as a beacon of hope and resilience for those affected by the floods, demonstrating the power of community support and international solidarity through the Lions Clubs. As the program is now completed, it leaves behind a legacy of compassion and collaboration that can inspire future efforts in disaster recovery.”

This initiative stands as a testament to the spirit of community and resilience, demonstrating how collective efforts can significantly impact those in need during trying times. For more information on the ‘Adopt a Family’ program or to seek assistance, please contact your local Lions Club.

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Contributed with thanks by the Lions Club of Ingham, Pat Lynch Secretary

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At the Ingham ‘Meet the Buyer’ event many local providers and interested persons gathered to hear more about the project. Photo credits: Victoria Velton

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Windlab and the Gugu Badhun Aboriginal Corporation (GBAC) have announced a partnership with Australian Pacific Indigenous Personnel (APIP) to support employment, training and local participation outcomes for the Gawara Baya wind energy project.

The appointment was announced at Windlab’s Gawara Baya Meet the Buyer Industry Roadshow in Charters Towers and Ingham, as the project moves toward construction.

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The partnership supports the co-designed Gawara Baya–Gugu Badhun Employment and Training Strategy, developed through Gugu Badhun cultural leadership and underpinned by a landmark Indigenous Land Use Agreement (ILUA) between Windlab and GBAC. Windlab oversees project delivery and the appointment of major contractors, through which employment and contracting opportunities for the project will be delivered.

APIP will support implementation of the strategy through culturally informed engagement and workforce coordination, helping connect Traditional Owners, local people and regional suppliers with project delivery teams and contractors. The Meet the Buyer Roadshow brought industry, workforce and delivery partners together ahead of construction to share information about upcoming work and participation opportunities.

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Windlab Chief Project Delivery Officer Tom Keddie said the partnership reflects a focus on turning commitments into action.

“At Gawara Baya, cultural leadership and local participation are part of how we do things on Country,” Mr Keddie said.

“Working with GBAC and bringing APIP in early helps ensure opportunities are grounded locally and set up to deliver lasting benefits.”

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Gugu Badhun Aboriginal Corporation RNTBC Chief Executive Officer Allison Hoolihan said APIP’s endorsement reflects a significant step in delivering long-term employment and economic outcomes on Country.

“Gugu Badhun Aboriginal Corporation RNTBC is very happy to announce APIP is an endorsed GBAC business and excited that they will be assisting GBAC and Windlab with the delivery of the Gugu Badhun Gawara Baya Employment Strategy, ILUA commitments and business development throughout the project duration, which will be led by a Gugu Badhun person Noel Gertz,” Ms Hoolihan said.

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“APIP will be leading the engagement on behalf of Gugu Badhun Aboriginal Corporation RNTBC with strong governance structures that allow for GBAC, APIP and Windlab to work alongside each other through collaborative processes and further allow our relationship with APIP and Windlab for the Gawara Baya project to grow through this new phase.

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“This engagement will allow for future employment, skills and training for Gugu Badhun Peoples and further regional development and support to other neighbouring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, whilst supporting Gugu Badhun Nation in our Economic Development, Research and Nation Building.”

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Australian Pacific Indigenous Personnel Owner and Managing Director, Noel Gertz, said the engagement is about supporting practical workforce outcomes on Country.

“Our role is to work alongside GBAC and Windlab to help connect people with real jobs, training and pathways that make sense locally,” Mr Gertz said.

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“Being involved early allows opportunities at Gawara Baya to be shaped with local people, local businesses and culture in mind, and to support outcomes that last beyond construction.”

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Hinchinbrook young people are invited to get creative and show their appreciation for first responders as part of the Young Voices Art Showcase ahead of Thank a First Responder Day on 10 June. Photo supplied

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Young creatives across the Hinchinbrook Shire are being encouraged to pick up their pens, paints and cameras to take part in a nationwide initiative celebrating local heroes.

As part of Thank a First Responder Day on 10 June, children and young people are invited to enter the Young Voices Art Showcase, using creativity to express their gratitude to the first responders who support the community every day.

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From firefighters and paramedics to police and emergency volunteers, the competition shines a light on those who step up in times of need, and the families who stand behind them.

Entries can include drawings, paintings, photography or digital designs, with participants encouraged to reflect themes such as acts of kindness, community connection and messages of thanks.

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The initiative is a chance for Hinchinbrook’s young people to tell their own stories and recognise the role first responders play, particularly in a region that has faced its share of natural disasters.

With prizes up for grabs, including $200 book vouchers, organisers say the focus remains on participation, creativity and community spirit.

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Entries are open now and close on 24 May. Visit fortemaustralia.org.au for more information.

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The recipients of the 2026 Premier’s Anzac Prize have been welcomed home after a two-week journey that pays homage to Australia’s fallen soldiers.  

Eight students and two teachers from across Queensland participated in the trip, and as part of the Prize, students visited memorial sites, war museums and the Anzac Day dawn service in France.  

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Applications for the 2027 Premier’s Anzac Prize are now open.  

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Prize inclusions:

   Return domestic flights to and from Brisbane (if required) & Return international flights

   3-day Brisbane research workshop (January)

   2-week European tour (April)

   GoSafe travel insurance & Visas if required

   Hotel accommodation & Meals

   All local travel, tours and entries fees

   Tickets to the Anzac Day Dawn Service in Villers-Bretonneux

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The 2026 Premier’s Anzac Prize recipients have returned home from a two-week excursion to memorials, battlefields and historic war sites across Europe.  

Recipients of the prestigious prize honour Australia’s Anzac legacy and walk in the footsteps of fallen soldiers at historic war sites in the United Kingdom, Belgium and France.

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The Premier’s Anzac Prize tour culminated at the Anzac Day commemoration service at the Australian National Memorial in Villers-Bretonneux, France.  

The Premier’s Anzac Prize is part of the Government’s excellence and awards programs for high-achieving students, including the Peter Doherty Awards, The Quantum Challenge, Premier’s Reading Challenge, and the inaugural 2026 Westminster Prize.  

Minister for Education John-Paul Langbroek said the tour was a living history lesson and a chance to learn about Queensland and Australian identity.  

“I’m proud to see the 2026 Premier’s Anzac Prize recipients have returned with a passion for Australia’s rich military history,” Minister Langbroek said.  

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“Students from right across the State have taken part in this extraordinary experience to learn, travel and pay respect to the Anzacs.  

“It’s important for all young Queenslanders to understand the sacrifices that were made for the lives we enjoy today.  

“Queensland has been sending students to Europe through the Premier’s Anzac Prize since I introduced this program back in 2013.  

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“My thanks to RSL Queensland, who is a proud sponsor of this Prize, as well as to the State Library of Queensland for their delivery of the Young Historians Workshop and White Gloves Experience, and Queensland Museum for hosting the 2026 Welcome Back Event.”  

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Applications for the 2027 Premier’s Anzac Prize are now open.  

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For details visit the Premier’s Anzac Prize web page.: https://education.qld.gov.au/about-us/budgets-funding-grants/scholarships/premiers-anzac-prize

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2026 Premier’s Anzac Prize student recipients  

Dakota-Lily Cullen-Chambers, Upper Coomera State College

Jessica Hawkins, Moreton Bay College

Isaiah Howell, Bowen State High School

Seth Johnson, Bundaberg State High School

Kurt Lane, St Michael’s College (Merrimac)

Clayton Reddan, Roma State College

Lara Santo, Assumption College Warwick

Georgia White, Maryborough State High School  

Chaperone recipients  

Courtney Trost, Ferny Hills State School

Jake Hartland, Marsden State High School

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With nearly two decades in real estate, Nathan Henderson has built a career grounded in experience, local knowledge, and a genuine understanding of people. After working as an agent for several years, he gained his Principal’s licence in 2007, marking the beginning of a long-standing presence in the Hinchinbrook property market.

Nathan specialises in residential sales, rentals, and rural properties, with a particular appreciation for the people behind each transaction.

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“Residential sales and rentals and rural sales are the bulk of our work and having been around for a while, the people are the best part. We are truly grateful when people are referred to us and we have sold to parents and then children in the same family. Being an agent means helping people navigate an important transition in their life.”

With a rural background, Nathan values getting out on the land and understanding how properties function within their environment and community.  

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“It’s easy to focus too locally… we take care to understand what is happening outside of our area to ensure we are reacting quickly to changes in our market for clients.”

“Understanding what people are aiming to achieve and when, helps us give advice and strategy in selling their property. We assist with the happiest and saddest moments in people's lives and we are always grateful for the trust our clients put in us.”

What advice would you give to first-home buyers looking to settle in the region?

“Avoid the FOMO, don’t rush unless it’s the right place… build a relationship with agents so you have a chance of seeing things as they come on the market.”  

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Mr Blake and students at the Halifax memorial

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On Saturday morning our students and staff took part in the Halifax ANZAC march and ceremony.  

Following a week of learning about the ANZAC Spirit, this was a great opportunity for the students to be a part of a real commemoration. Through the week students read stories and investigated the values needed to be service men and women (especially those in WWI).  

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We made the original ANZAC biscuit, known as ‘hard tack’, and the modern version. Everyone agreed that the modern version is much better! We also tried some other wartime rations; billy tea and ‘bully beef’. Most had had tea but would struggle to drink it without sugar. The consensus of tinned corned beef was ok but not something they would want to eat every day.

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The students found out about the Last Post, laying a wreath, the significance of poppies and rosemary and the correct ways to wear medals.

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The end of the week saw us planning how we could be involved in the Halifax commemoration, and on the 25^th, ANZAC Day, Mr Blake and students proudly attended the Halifax service.

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Hinchinbrook MP Wayde Chiesa with local law enforcement at the Cardwell ANZAC Day service. Photo credit: Wayde Chiesa’s office.

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Last week I was in Brisbane for Parliament, continuing to advocate for the issues that matter most to our region, before returning home to spend time across the Hinchinbrook electorate. A key focus during the sitting week was the need for Queensland to become more self-sufficient, particularly when it comes to critical inputs like fuel and fertiliser. For communities like ours, these are important issues that directly impact the cost of living, our farmers, and the strength of our local economy.

We have seen how global events can disrupt supply chains and drive-up costs. That’s why I have continued to push for greater sovereign capability, so Queensland is less exposed to international uncertainty. The Crisafulli Government is committed to strengthening this self-sufficiency and ensuring regional communities like Hinchinbrook are better protected into the future.

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We also passed the third tranche of Adult Crime, Adult Time laws in Parliament. This builds on the work already underway to restore community safety after a decade where victim numbers rose 193% under the former government.

While we are starting to see some early signs of progress from stronger laws and a more focused approach, I know from conversations across our community that there is more to do. Turning around long-term challenges takes time, but the commitment remainsclear: to back our police, hold offenders accountable, and make our communities safer.

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On Saturday, I had the privilege of attending a number of ANZAC Day services across the electorate, including the Dawn Service, RSL service, cemetery service, as well as services at Forrest Beach, Halifax and Cardwell. Each service was moving in its own way, and it was encouraging to see such strong attendance across all locations. It speaks to the deep respect our community holds for those who have served, and the importance of continuing to honour their sacrifice. It is always a privilege to stand alongside our community on ANZAC Day and reflect on the values of service, mateship and sacrifice that continue to shape our nation.

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As always, I will continue to take the voices of Hinchinbrook to Brisbane, while staying closely connected to our community here at home.

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• The Crisafulli Government is launching a new international prize for eight high-achieving Queensland students and two teachers.
• Successful applicants will fly to London to visit the birthplace of Westminster democracy and will undertake trips to Canberra and Brisbane parliaments.  
• Applications for the inaugural program open on Monday 18 May to Queensland Year 9 students.  
• The Crisafulli Government is delivering a plan for Queensland’s future and supporting the State’s students and teachers.  

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The Crisafulli Government is delivering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Queensland students and teachers to experience the birthplace of parliamentary democracy through a prestigious education prize.  

Launching today, the Westminster Prize is open to all Year 9 students across Queensland’s state schools, non-state schools, and homeschool settings who have a strong interest in civics and citizenship.  

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It’s just one of the ways the Crisafulli Government is delivering a plan for Queensland’s future after a decade of decline under Labor.

Eight successful students will fly to London next year with two teacher chaperones to experience first-hand aspects of the Westminster system of government, which is the foundation of Australia’s parliamentary democracy.

The prize also includes trips to Canberra and Brisbane parliaments where students will gain valuable knowledge, insights and experiences with Australia’s political system.  

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The Westminster Prize is a new initiative from the Crisafulli Government and adds to existing excellence programs including the Premier’s ANZAC Prize, the Premier’s Reading Challenge and the Peter Doherty Awards.  

Minister for Education John-Paul Langbroek said the Westminster Prize aimed to strengthen Queensland students’ understanding of civics, citizenship and democratic participation.

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“This exciting new program offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for our students to travel to London, Canberra and Brisbane to learn about our rich history and political system,” Minister Langbroek said.

“Today’s students are our future leaders, and the Crisafulli Government’s new Westminster Prize is a fantastic opportunity for them to travel, explore and deepen their understanding of democratic values.

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“Through the Westminster Prize, the eight students will grow their understanding of Queensland’s parliamentary system, Australia’s federal democracy and the Westminster model in the UK.

“As well as their travels, the prize winners will deliver a local civics project focused on a community issue, applying their learning to real-world contexts.”

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British Consul General for Queensland and the Northern Territory Richard Cowin said he was delighted to support the fantastic initiative.

“This exciting award gives students an amazing opportunity to see how the Westminster system works in real life and to experience the democratic traditions that connect the UK and Australia,” Mr Cowin said.

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“In a fast-changing world, understanding our shared values and approaches is more important than ever.

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“This prize will enable a lucky group of young Queenslanders to experience these principles firsthand and draw on them throughout their lives.”

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Applications to be part of the inaugural Westminster Prize open on 18 May and close 31 July, with interviews and selection in August and September.

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For more information, visit the website.  

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Hi Readers,

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After chatting about the J.L. Kelly Theatre in my last column, I thought I’d talk about another space that means a lot to our community: the TYTO Precinct.

Originally, this area was part of the lower Herbert River floodplain, a landscape of wetlands and lagoons, and importantly, the traditional land of the Nywaigi people. It was a vital natural resource for food and water.

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The TYTO Precinct has progressed from those natural wetlands into a place where locals and visitors come together, combining nature, culture and community all in one place.

The idea in Hinchinbrook Shire Council and with the community was to create something that would support tourism while also giving locals a space to gather and connect. With support from the State Government through the Q150 program, construction began in 2008.

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By 2009, the first stage was complete, with the viewing tower, community spaces and parklands. It continued to grow, with the library, art gallery, visitor information centre and outdoor event spaces all becoming part of what TYTO offers today, while keeping that strong connection to the wetlands.

It’s a fantastic space for events such as weddings, Tasman Turtle picnic day, conferences and plenty of other community activities. It also continues to attract birdwatchers and visitors right throughout the year.

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The floods in 2025 caused some closures and damage, but it’s great to see the precinct back up and running and continuing to play such an important role in our community.

From wetlands to a busy community hub, TYTO is a big part of life here in the Hinchinbrook.

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If you haven’t been there for a while, do yourself a favour and take the time to visit. The library, art displays, local information and community spaces are things we are lucky to have. And while you’re there, make sure you grab a photo with Tiddalik the Frog.

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Also coming up, 31 July will see the opening of the 11th Hinchinbrook Birdlife Art Awards – don’t miss that one. I’ll see you there.

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Herbert River Crushers President Matt Chiesa, Legends of Legue’s Craig Teevan, Mayor Ramon Jayo, Legends of Legue’s Troy Byers, Crusher’s Rhys Swarbrick, and Crusher’s Sarah Castles, together in front of the mural at the Hinchinbrook Shire Council offices. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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Hinchinbrook is set to take centre stage this winter, with rugby league greats heading to Ingham for a major community event that promises to bring excitement on and off the field. The International Legends of League will draw former stars from across Australia, giving locals a rare chance to see some of the game’s biggest names up close. With a mix of school visits, community activities and a headline exhibition match, the event is expected to attract strong crowds while delivering a boost to grassroots sport, local businesses and community pride across the region.

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FOOTY LEGENDS TO FIRE UP HINCHINBROOK THIS JULY

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Footy fever is set to hit Hinchinbrook when former rugby league legends take the field in Ingham this July as part of a four‑day community event.

Running from 15-18 July 2026, the event will culminate in a Saturday exhibition match, the first International Legends of League event in the Hinchinbrook Shire.

Hinchinbrook Shire Council is backing the event, which will see an Australian Legends team, including several former North Queensland Cowboys, compete against a local All Stars Legends team.  

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The Australian Legends team will be made up of high profile former NRL, State of Origin and Test rugby league players.

Hinchinbrook Shire Council Mayor Ramon Jayo said the event would deliver important social, sporting and economic benefits to the region.

“Footy is part of the fabric of our community, and events like this give us the chance to celebrate that while also delivering real benefits for our young people and local clubs,” Mayor Jayo said.

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“Having the Legends of League in Hinchinbrook puts our region again in the spotlight after the successful Tones and I concert in February. It just shows what we can achieve when community, sport and tourism come together.”

As part of the visit, players will undertake school visits, sharing messages around teamwork, resilience, respect and healthy lifestyles.

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International Legends of League Founder Craig Teevan said the Hinchinbrook event was a significant milestone for the organisation.

“This will be our 102nd Legends of League event, but our first time bringing the legends to Hinchinbrook, and we’re really excited about it,” Mr Teevan said.  “We use the profiles of former players to engage with young people, support grassroots rugby league and deliver lasting positive outcomes for regional communities.”

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A Corporate Day will be held on Friday 17 July, featuring a Bowls Day and Dinner, offering local businesses the opportunity to get involved while supporting grassroots sport.

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Herbert River Crushers Rugby League Club President Matt Chiesa said the event would be a major boost for local rugby league.

“This is a huge opportunity for our club and for the wider rugby league community in Hinchinbrook,” Mr Chiesa said.  

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“Not only will fans get to see legends of the game up close, but the funds raised will go straight back into grassroots footy where it’s needed most.”

Game day on Saturday 18 July will feature a full program of rugby league action, including local men’s, women’s and junior games, before the headline Legends clash.

Visiting teams from outside the region are expected to travel to Hinchinbrook, providing a boost to local accommodation and hospitality businesses.  

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All food and beverage sales on game day will stay in the community, along with a percentage of gate takings, ensuring the event delivers direct benefits to local rugby league and community groups.

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Corporate partnership packages are now open, with businesses across the region encouraged to take part. For corporate enquiries, contact Craig Teevan on 0412 627 497. Further event details will be announced in coming weeks.

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Sun Monroe in Coast Guard uniform. Photo supplied

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Lucinda Coast Guard volunteers are greatly saddened by the passing of one of our own, Sue Monroe, after a long and debilitating battle with cancer.

Sue has been a dedicated volunteer for many years, performing vital Radio Operator duties as well as being the Stores Officer. Sue always enjoyed being on the Coast Guard float each year for the Maraka Festival.

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Sue will be greatly missed by all at Lucinda Coast Guard.

Contributed with thanks by Steve Whipps of the QF-14 Lucinda Coast Guard

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The Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) will undertake planned burning in Hinchinbrook Island National Park as part of its annual conservation and hazard reduction program.

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The burn will use aerial ignition on sections of the island adjacent to the Thorsborne Trail. The Thorsborne Trail and campsites will remain open during this time.

Due to the complexity of the operation, burning will occur on a suitable day during May, subject to weather and operational conditions. Smoke may be visible in nearby areas including Lucinda, Cardwell, and along the Bruce Highway.

Visitors to the park are advised to follow all signage and directions from QPWS Rangers and to avoid entering closed areas. Motorists should take care when travelling in smoky conditions and be aware of firefighting activity.

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Planned burns play an important role in maintaining ecosystem health, supporting biodiversity, and reducing the risk and intensity of bushfires. These operations are weather-dependent and may result in smoke lingering in some areas.

Only a portion of the landscape is burnt at any one time. This helps to create a mosaic pattern of burnt and unburnt areas that increases the opportunity for safer and more successful response to bushfires while supporting plant regeneration and protecting important habitat for wildlife.

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If affected by smoke, residents are advised to stay indoors with windows and doors closed and keep any necessary respiratory medication close by.

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For updates on park conditions and fire activity, visit Park Alerts or follow Qld Park Alerts online. For more information, contact QPWS at Hinchinbrook@detsi.qld.gov.au

Public safety is the highest consideration in all QPWS fire management activities, visit the Fire management webpage.

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Live air quality data, and information on smoke and dust health actions, can be found on the Queensland Government’s website: https://www.qld.gov.au/environment/management/monitoring/air  

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Community members are being encouraged to share their experiences to help shape Cassowary Coast Regional Council’s first Disability Inclusion and Accessibility Plan. Photo supplied

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The Cassowary Coast is set to become a more accessible and inclusive region, with Cassowary Coast Regional Council announcing the development of its first Disability Inclusion and Accessibility Plan.

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The initiative marks a significant milestone for the region, where the proportion of residents living with disability is higher than the state average, and has been identified as a priority under Council’s Corporate and Operational Plan 2025–2030.

The need for improved accessibility was also reinforced through the 2024 MARKYT Community Scorecard, which highlighted inclusion as a key area for improvement.

The new plan will guide future decision-making across a range of areas, including community events, infrastructure, placemaking and Council processes, ensuring they better reflect the diverse needs of the community.

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To help shape the plan, Council is working alongside Inclusive Consulting, an independent expert in accessibility and inclusion, and is calling on residents to share their experiences and ideas.

Mayor Teresa Millwood said community input would be critical to the plan’s success.

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“This is a great opportunity for our community to come together and shape a plan that will make the Cassowary Coast a more inclusive and accessible place for everyone,” she said.

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“We want to hear from as many people as possible. Your experiences and insights are vital to this process.”

Residents, including people with lived experience of disability, carers, support workers and other stakeholders, are encouraged to take part by attending upcoming workshops or completing an online survey.

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Feedback will play a key role in ensuring the final plan reflects real community needs and helps build a region where everyone feels supported, welcome and empowered.

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Community consultation is open until 8 May 2026, with surveys available online, at Council libraries and customer service centres.

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