Willow is a playful 12-week-old tuxedo kitten looking for her forever home through Cassowary Coast Paws & Claws. Photo source: Cassowary Coast Paws & Claws

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Playful, affectionate and full of curiosity, 12-week-old Willow is ready to find her forever family.

The adorable female tuxedo kitten is currently in the care of Cassowary Coast Paws & Claws Inc. and is looking for a loving home where she can continue to grow and thrive.

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Like any young kitten, Willow loves to explore her surroundings, chase toys and spend time playing with her feline friends. After a busy day of adventures, she's just as happy curling up in a cosy spot for a well-earned nap or enjoying plenty of cuddles.

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With her striking black-and-white tuxedo markings and sweet personality, Willow is sure to bring companionship and plenty of entertainment to her new family.

Willow's $200 adoption fee includes her first and second vaccinations, a veterinary health check, microchipping, up-to-date parasite prevention and desexing, which will be carried out when she reaches six months of age.

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If you think Willow could be the perfect addition to your family, contact Cassowary Coast Paws & Claws on 0428 807 461 to arrange a meet and greet, or visit the refuge during opening hours.

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A new $2 million Future Farms project will help banana, sugarcane and grazing properties across the Cassowary Coast improve resilience to extreme weather and strengthen soil health. Photo source: Shutterstock

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A new $2 million project will help future-proof farms across the Cassowary Coast by improving soil health, reducing erosion and strengthening resilience to extreme weather.

Terrain NRM will deliver the Queensland Government-funded Future Farms project, working with landholders from Innisfail to Kennedy to improve the long-term productivity and sustainability of banana, sugarcane and grazing properties.

Minister for Natural Resources, Mines, Manufacturing and Regional and Rural Development Dale Last said the investment would help landholders better prepare for future weather events.

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"Local landholders have been subject to extreme weather events in recent years, and this program will fund on-ground initiatives to improve farm resilience and soil and land conditions," Mr Last said.

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The project is being delivered in partnership with the Australian Banana Growers Council, Canegrowers Innisfail, the Cassowary Coast Graziers Association and local landholders.

Several farms will host demonstration sites showcasing practical land management techniques tailored to each agricultural sector.

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On sugarcane farms, the focus will include mixed-species fallow crops, improved drainage, laser levelling and soil amelioration. Grazing properties will trial pasture management practices, including legume planting, strategic paddock design and erosion control through revegetation and fencing.

Banana growers will demonstrate contouring techniques to reduce erosion on steep slopes, along with improved drainage design and streambank remediation to minimise sediment loss.

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Terrain NRM chief executive Stewart Christie said the project had been developed in response to years of severe weather that had taken a toll on the region's agricultural landscape.

"These events, following decades of land-use pressures, have extensively damaged the region’s agricultural landscapes, resulting in financial losses and long-term degradation of land and waterways," he said.

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"This area sits between two World Heritage-listed regions, the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics Rainforest, making it one of Queensland’s most ecologically significant and climate-exposed landscapes."

Mr Christie said agriculture remained central to the region's economy.

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"Agriculture contributes more than $630 million each year to the Cassowary Coast, with sugarcane, bananas and grazing forming the foundation of regional livelihoods," he said.

"This project is a way to support landholders through practical tools, knowledge and on-ground support to increase their resilience so they can continue producing now and into the future."

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Australian Banana Growers Council representative Amelia Foster said the project would help strengthen an industry already committed to best practice.

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"Working alongside experienced engineering consultants will also strengthen our Best Management Practice team's technical skills and increase industry capability to support practical, farm-based solutions into the future," she said.

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The Future Farms project is funded through the Queensland Government's $117.8 million Natural Resource Management Expansion Program, which is supporting projects aimed at improving environmental outcomes and strengthening regional resilience across the state.

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The new measures will help customers choose between imported seafood and fish caught right here in the Hinchinbrook region. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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From 1^st July 2026, mandatory Country of Origin Labelling (CoOL) laws will apply to seafood sold in hospitality venues across Australia, including restaurants, cafés, pubs, clubs, takeaways and food trucks. Menus and display boards will need to clearly identify whether seafood is Australian (A), Imported (I) or Mixed Origin (M) using the new AIM labelling system.

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These new laws are providing transparency to allow Australians to support local industry and make informed choices about quality, sustainability and freshness.

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Ensuring Accuracy and Compliance, businesses must ensure that any origin claims are supported by supply chain records such as invoices or supplier information. Incorrect or misleading origin claims can result in penalties under Australian Consumer Law. Complaints against incorrect labelling can be reported to the ACCC.  

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Read more about the new Country of Origin Labelling changes on Queensland Catch’s website.

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The 6.1m alloy boat under tow by the Snow Stafford. Photo supplied

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In the afternoon of Sunday 21^st June, the Lucinda Coast Guard received a call from two local fishermen aboard a 6.1m alloy boat off the southern end of Orpheus Island. The fishermen reported that they had spun a propeller off the spline, leaving them without any driveability.

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They requested a tow back to Dungeness, so a volunteer crew was organised and preparations began to launch the larger vessel, Snow Stafford.

Once again, the crew faced challenging tide conditions, with limited water over the sandbar, but they were able to safely make their way out. Around 40 minutes later, the distressed vessel was located, a tow was secured, and the journey back to shore began.

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After a rough trip out against a south-westerly wind and swell, the crew enjoyed a smoother return journey with the sea behind them. The vessel and its occupants were safely delivered back to the boat ramp.

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Lucinda Coast Guard reminds everyone to take care when heading out on the water and to ensure vessels are properly maintained before departing.

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Stay safe on the water.

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(Contributed with thanks by Steve Whipps, Commander Qf14 Lucinda Coast Guard)

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Sandra has been named a 2026 State Finalist for Pharmacy Assistant of the Year. Photo supplied

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Terry White Chemmart Ingham continues to provide trusted healthcare support to the local community, with the team dedicated to delivering accessible services and quality care.

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Pharmacists at Terry White Chemmart Ingham can now administer a wider range of vaccines, offering customers the convenience of walk-in appointments or scheduled bookings. This expanded service allows locals to access important vaccinations with the support of their local pharmacy team.

Eligible customers can also access free vaccinations through the National Immunisation Program (NIP), including free flu vaccines, pneumococcal vaccines for those aged over 65, and RSV vaccines for people aged over 75.

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The team’s commitment to care has also been recognised, with pharmacist Craig nominated for Queensland Pharmacist of the Year through the Pharmacy Guild of Australia’s recognition program. Pharmacy assistant Sandra has also been recognised as a State Finalist for Queensland Pharmacy Assistant of the Year.

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Sandra’s nomination celebrates the Terry White Chemmart motto ‘dedicated to care’ through recognising her genuine care for others, and her daily positive impact.

“We are incredibly proud to celebrate Sandra, who has been named a 2026 State Finalist for Pharmacy Assistant of the Year!” the team said.  

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“Sandra’s unwavering dedication to her community, genuine care for others, and positive outlook make a difference in the lives of so many people every day. This well-deserved recognition reflects not only her hard work and commitment, but also the kindness and compassion she brings to everything she does.”

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With exciting developments planned for the future of Terry White Chemmart Ingham, the team looks forward to continuing to support the community with new services and initiatives.

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Many local growers and industry representatives attended the first Herbert Variety Management Group meeting earlier this month. Photo source: Sugar Research Australia Limited

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Sugar industry representatives and local growers gathered this week for the first Herbert Variety Management Group meeting, marking a positive step forward for collaboration and productivity in the region.

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The meeting, which attracted a strong turnout earlier this month, brought together Herbert growers and key industry stakeholders to discuss cane variety performance and future opportunities for the district.

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Organisers thanked attendees for their participation and acknowledged Greg Shannon for sharing insights from the Tully Variety Management Group, highlighting the successes and learnings that could be applied to the Herbert region.

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The event forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen communication between growers, service providers and industry bodies, with a focus on improving cane variety selection and supporting long-term productivity across the sugar sector.

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Representatives from across the industry, including Sugar Research Australia Limited, CANEGROWERS, Herbert Productivity Services Limited, Wilmar Sugar Australia Limited and Tully Sugar Limited, were involved in the discussion.

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Organisers say they are looking forward to future meetings, with continued collaboration expected to play a key role in driving innovation and sharing knowledge across the industry.

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The Herbert Variety Management Group will continue to meet regularly as part of its commitment to improving outcomes for growers and supporting the sustainability of the sugar industry in North Queensland.

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Georgia and the team are here to help you find out about what support is available. Photo supplied

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Sometimes finding the right support or accessing the NDIS can be overwhelming. Other times it’s a matter of knowing where to turn. That’s where service navigator Georgia comes in; her role is all about connecting recipients with local services and resources that can make a meaningful difference in their lives.

Over the past four years, Georgia has progressed from a lifestyle support worker into her current role as a service navigator, supporting recipients across Ingham, Charters Towers, the Burdekin, Townsville, Palm Island and Richmond.

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Working across such a large footprint gives her a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities that exist across regional Queensland communities.

“A service navigator plays a vital role in guiding individuals through complex systems of support including health, community, housing, disability and social services,” said Georgia

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“The goal is to ensure people feel informed, supported and confident rather than lost or overwhelmed.”

Through her work, Georgia has learned that meaningful outcomes are unique and personal and that progress often comes through consistent support and encouragement.

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“One of the most important things I’ve learned in my role is that recovery takes time and looks different for everyone.

“I’ve also learned that recipients have so much potential when they’re given the right support, encouragement, and opportunities.”

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For those considering a career in the sector, Georgia believes looking after your own wellbeing is just as important as supporting others.

“The biggest advice I’d give to anyone considering a role in this sector is to make self-care a priority.”

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Meet Georgia and the team to find out more about what support is available by contacting 07 4781 2690 or pop into the Mental Health Hub at the Canegrowers Building, 11-13 Lannercost Street.

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Volunteer with Ocean Crusaders to keep the regions islands and beaches pristine. Photo source: Ocean Crusaders

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Ocean Crusaders, Australia’s premier waterway cleaning team, will return to Hinchinbrook Island this July for the 2026 Island Guardians Mission, bringing volunteers together for a 10-day marine debris clean-up along the island’s south-eastern beaches.

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Running from Tuesday 7^th July to Thursday 16^th July, the initiative will see volunteers work together to protect one of the region’s most spectacular and important natural environments. The clean-up is part of a 10-day programme funded through the Queensland Government’s Environmental Recovery – Clean Up and Local Conservation Grants (2025).

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Each day, volunteers will depart from the Lucinda Public Boat Ramp at 8:00am aboard Ocean Crusaders’ 8.3m landing barge, travelling across to Hinchinbrook Island to remove marine debris from the remote coastline. Teams will spend the day making a practical difference by collecting rubbish that has washed ashore, helping to protect marine life and preserve the island’s unique ecosystems.

Ocean Crusaders founder Ian Thomson said the project is a chance for people to experience the beauty of Hinchinbrook Island while contributing to meaningful conservation work.

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The daily clean-ups will return to Lucinda at approximately 2:00pm, giving participants a full day outdoors surrounded by the natural beauty of the region.

Volunteers are encouraged to come prepared for an active day, with participants needing to bring their own food and drinks as no catering will be available. Accessing the beaches may involve walking through shallow water, so sturdy enclosed shoes suitable for wet conditions are recommended.

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Participants should also bring sun-safe clothing, a hat, sunscreen and any personal essentials needed for the day.

The Hinchinbrook Island clean-up is an opportunity for locals and visitors alike to become directly involved in caring for the coastline, while enjoying a memorable experience in one of North Queensland’s most iconic island environments.

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Book your volunteer spot on eventbrite, search Ocean Crusaders or Hinchinbrook Island Clean Up 2026. For more information or to get involved, contact Ian on 0412 932 808.

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‘Unlike many companies that have disappeared into larger national organisations, MAMS has remained proudly local.’ Photo supplied

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‍How One North Queensland Family Business Has Grown With Its Community

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For nearly half a century, MAMS Group has quietly been doing one of the jobs most of us never think about – until it isn't done.

From collecting household rubbish to helping businesses navigate an increasingly complex world of recycling and environmental compliance, MAMS has become part of everyday life across North Queensland.

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What began as a small family business founded by Brian and Bernice Day has grown into one of North Queensland's largest locally owned waste and recycling companies. Today, the second generation of the family works alongside the founders, continuing the values that built the business nearly 50 years ago: hard work, genuine service and supporting the communities that support them. Over the years, MAMS has expanded from its Ingham base to establish operations across Townsville, Tully, Innisfail and Cairns, while remaining proudly family owned and committed to regional Queensland.  

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Unlike many companies that have disappeared into larger national organisations, MAMS has remained proudly local. That means local decisions, local jobs and local suppliers. Every dollar spent with local contractors helps strengthen the regional economy and keeps investment where it belongs, in North Queensland.

That local knowledge has never been more valuable.

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Businesses today face increasing pressure to reduce landfill, improve recycling and comply with changing environmental expectations. For many business owners, understanding new waste requirements can be confusing, time-consuming and costly.

Rather than simply collecting waste, MAMS works alongside businesses to review their waste streams, identify recycling opportunities and develop smarter collection systems. In many cases, those changes not only help businesses meet evolving environmental obligations but also reduce disposal costs and improve operational efficiency.

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Josh Lannen, General Manager and Board Member at MAMS Group, who also serves on the Board of the Waste and Recycling Industry of Queensland (WRIQ), says the role of waste management has changed dramatically over the past decade.  

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"Waste management has changed dramatically over the past decade. Businesses are facing new expectations around recycling and resource recovery, and we're helping them navigate those changes with solutions that are practical, compliant and cost-effective."

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Community has always been just as important as commercial success.

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Through the MAMS Groups participation in the Containers for Change scheme, MAMS has helped return more than $5 million to local schools, sporting clubs, charities and community organisations while collecting more than 255 million containers that might otherwise have ended up in landfill or waterways.  

Schools have funded new equipment, sporting clubs have purchased uniforms, and community groups have raised thousands of dollars through container drives – all made possible by a recycling program that turns everyday waste into meaningful community support.

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Today, MAMS employs around 60 North Queensland locals who deliver reliable waste and recycling services across homes, councils and businesses throughout the region. But for the Day family and the wider MAMS team, success has never been measured simply by the number of bins collected.

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It's measured by the communities they help keep clean, the businesses they help grow, the local jobs they create and the partnerships they've built over almost five decades.

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As North Queensland continues to grow and sustainability becomes an increasingly important part of doing business, MAMS Group remains committed to helping local businesses and communities build a cleaner, smarter and more sustainable future, together.

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Cameron, Ainara and Sienna, young members of the Basque Club of North Queensland. Photo supplied

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Pintxo (pin-cho) snacks washed down with refreshing kalimotxo (kali-mucho) await three young members of the Basque Club of North Queensland, who have been selected as Australia’s representatives in a prestigious month-long cultural and language immersion program in the Basque Country of Spain and France.

Ainara Kelly (19), Cameron Nelson (19) and Sienna Cottone (18) have departed from Townsville for north-eastern Spain, where they will join 50 other young international participants in the Basque Government’s Ateak Ireki (Open Doors) cultural exchange initiative.

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The three young Australians successfully applied for the program, which will see them hosted by local Basque families while undertaking daily language classes, traditional cooking workshops, cultural activities and dance lessons. Participants will also travel throughout all seven Basque provinces across Spain and France, visiting significant historical, cultural and architectural landmarks.

The 2026 program marks a significant milestone as the first time Australia has participated in the exchange. Young people from Argentina, Uruguay, Canada and the United States will also take part.

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The Basque Club of North Queensland is a vibrant community organisation based in Townsville dedicated to celebrating and preserving Basque culture, language, food and history.

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With more than 250 members spanning multiple generations, the club provides opportunities for people of Basque heritage and friends of the community to connect through regular social gatherings, cultural events and educational activities.

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The club forms part of a much larger North Queensland story, recognising the significant contribution of Basque migrants who settled in the region during the early and mid-20th century, many of whom worked in the sugar industry and helped shape the social and economic fabric of North Queensland communities.

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“The selection of Ainara, Cameron and Sienna is a proud moment for our club and for the wider North Queensland Basque community,” a club spokesperson said.

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“The opportunity for these young people to experience firsthand the language, traditions and daily life of the Basque Country will strengthen cultural connections and help ensure the continuation of Basque heritage for future generations.”

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Contributed with thanks by Mark Kelly & Bruce Muller, of the Basque Club NQ

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Upper Daradgee Road: Stabilisation and reseal of approximately 3.1 km of roadway undertaken in conjunction with funding through Disaster Relief Funding Arrangements. Photo source: Cassowary Coast Regional Council

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The Cassowary Coast Regional Council is urging the Federal Government to ensure proposed changes to Australia's disaster funding arrangements do not leave regional communities footing the bill for future natural disasters.

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Council has called for genuine consultation with Queensland councils as the Commonwealth considers replacing the current Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) with a new Disaster Recovery Funding Framework.

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The proposed reforms, based on recommendations from the Independent Review of Commonwealth Disaster Funding, aim to simplify disaster recovery funding, reduce red tape, speed up payments, provide greater certainty and place a stronger focus on resilience and betterment.

While the council supports many of those objectives, it has raised concerns over a proposed 50:50 funding model, warning it could reduce the Commonwealth's contribution and place additional pressure on the Queensland Government.

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Mayor Teresa Millwood said councils supported reforms, provided they did not reduce the level of Commonwealth support available to disaster-affected communities.

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"We support reforms that simplify disaster recovery funding, reduce red tape, improve speed of payment, increase certainty, and support betterment and resilience – provided those reforms do not reduce the overall level of Commonwealth funding available to disaster-affected Queensland communities."

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Mayor Millwood said the Cassowary Coast, like many Queensland regions, faced frequent natural disasters and relied on adequate recovery funding to rebuild essential infrastructure.

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"We call on the Australian Government to further engage with the Queensland Government to retain a fair, needs-based disaster recovery funding model that recognises Queensland's high exposure to natural disasters and the limited financial capacity of many regional and rural councils."

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Council said that if the Queensland Government was unable to absorb any reduction in Commonwealth funding, the financial burden could ultimately fall on local governments and ratepayers.

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"We reject any reform that effectively shifts disaster recovery costs onto local councils or ratepayers,” said Mayor Millwood.

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Council also warned the proposed framework could result in tighter eligibility requirements, delayed reimbursements, reduced opportunities for betterment projects, increased local government contributions and reduced access to other funding programs.

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Over the past four years, the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements have been activated for four major disaster events across the Cassowary Coast, with the council receiving approximately $80 million to restore essential public assets. Council noted that 74 of Queensland's 77 local government areas were disaster declared during the 2025-26 financial year, highlighting the state's ongoing exposure to severe weather.  

Mayor Millwood said councils should have a stronger voice before any final decisions were made.

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"We call on the Australian Government to genuinely consult with Queensland councils before making any final decision on the proposed Disaster Recovery Funding Framework."

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She also called for greater investment in measures that reduce the impact of future disasters, and called for the Federal Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, and Minister for Emergency Management, Kristy McBain, to visit the region.

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"We call on the Australian Government to increase investment in disaster betterment, mitigation and resilience programs in addition to, and not as a replacement for, core disaster recovery funding,” Mayor Millwood said.

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"I have invited the Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, and Minister for Emergency Management, The Hon Kristy McBain MP to visit the Cassowary Coast to see firsthand what the DRFA has delivered for our community – and what it would mean if the costs of natural disasters were effectively shifted onto our community."

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Justin Brennan, Cassowary Coast University Centre and Anita Laksa from Innisfail Youth and Family Care will be speaking at the CCBWN Event. Photos supplied

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July sees the Cassowary Coast Business Women’s Network (CCBWN) hosting an event at the Crown Hotel in Innisfail on Tuesday 21 July.

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We have presentations from two organisations which are providing valuable support and services to the Cassowary Coast in areas of tertiary education and family and youth services:

Hear from Justin Brennan, Cassowary Coast University Centre and Anita Laksa from Innisfail Youth and Family Care, one of our new CCBWN members.

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This should be an informative evening and for those wishing to attend please book using the following link:  https://www.Trybooking.com/DMUTE.  You do not need to be a CCBWN member to attend our events, guests are always welcome.

We are also excited to announce our plans for the Cassowary Coast Business Bazaar which will be a fabulous festival style evening event showcasing Cassowary Coast businesses.  

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Save the date – Thursday 20 August 2026, 4.30pm -9.00pm.  This Bazaar will be held at the Mission Beach Village Green with all Village Green businesses opening their doors for trade and dining plus businesses from across the Cassowary Coast region participating with pop up shops, displays and information sharing.

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We are looking to create a vibrant atmosphere with live music, shopping, dining and connecting Cassowary Coast businesses and the community.

If anyone has any queries please direct to bookings@ccbwn.org.au.

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WHAT: Cassowary Coast Business Women’s Network Event

WHERE: Crown Hotel, Innisfail

WHEN: Tuesday 21^st July

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WHAT: Cassowary Coast Business Bazaar

WHERE: Mission Beach Village Green

WHEN: Thursday 20^th August, 4.30pm-9pm

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Last Wednesday, I was honoured to attend Ingham Hospital to celebrate a significant achievement for our community: the tenth anniversary of birthing services at Ingham Hospital.

The continuing ability for mothers to give birth close to home is a blessing that impacts not only families but the entire community. Keeping these birthing services local means families don’t have to face long trips to other centres, not just for the birth, but also for the essential pre-birth check-ups and monitoring. It also means mothers are not separated from family and friends during such an important time. It is particularly pleasing to know that we have dedicated health professionals here who know and care for our community and can provide the personalised support we need close to home.

Congratulations and thank you to Ingham Health executives, doctors, and local healthcare workers for their efforts in ensuring the continuation of this vital service, and to everyone involved in providing the care and support required.

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This achievement is also made possible by the many people, families, and advocates who stood together and strongly petitioned for this service in the past with unwavering commitment. Your voices, your efforts, and your passion have made a profound difference.

Thank you for your hard work, your commitment, and your belief.

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On another note, there was also significant activity in Canberra last week concerning local government, as reported by the Australian Local Government Association.

Australia’s 538 local councils united at the National General Assembly to call on the Australian Parliament to deliver an immediate increase in untied funding, warning that the financial sustainability of councils is increasingly at risk.

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In a powerful show of unity, delegates endorsed an emergency motion calling for fairer funding for local government and supported a joint letter to be tabled with every Member of the House of Representatives and the Senate.

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The letter, signed by the presidents of state and territory local government associations, calls for a multi-partisan commitment to a stronger funding partnership with councils.

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Australian Local Government Association President and Gladstone Mayor Matt Burnett said the motion reflects the shared reality facing councils across metropolitan, regional, rural, and remote Australia.

“Financial sustainability is not an abstract discussion for local government. It is about whether councils can continue to do the job our communities expect of us,” President Burnett said.

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“Councils are responsible for the roads, bridges, libraries, pools, parks, footpaths, stormwater systems, waste services, and community facilities Australians rely on every day.

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“We are also the first people communities call when something goes wrong – whether that is a local road failure, a disaster, a planning issue, or a service disruption.

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“Yet councils are increasingly being asked to do more with less funding certainty, less flexibility, limited revenue capacity, and reduced ability to plan for the long term.”

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The emergency motion calls on the Australian Government to act now to deliver fairer funding through an immediate increase in untied funding for all councils.

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Grant Funding to Strengthen Community Recovery

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Following the devastating floods of February 2025, Hinchinbrook Shire Council has secured additional grant funding to further support the community's ongoing recovery journey.

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This funding marks an important step in ensuring recovery efforts continue well beyond the immediate aftermath of the disaster. Leading this next phase is Council's Community Recovery and Resilience Officer, who will coordinate initiatives aimed at strengthening community wellbeing, fostering resilience, and supporting residents as they continue to rebuild.

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Planning is already well underway for a series of community events and engagement opportunities designed to bring people together, provide practical support, and create meaningful connections throughout the recovery process. These initiatives will complement the work already undertaken and ensure residents have continued access to resources and support as the community moves forward.

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One of the key upcoming initiatives is the Just a Farmer program. While the name may suggest an agricultural focus, the event is designed to support far more than the farming community. It aims to provide valuable conversations around mental health, resilience and wellbeing for anyone navigating the pressures of work, business or everyday life.

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 As 30th June is now upon us, many businesses, primary producers and organisations enter a period of reflection as they close out the financial year. It is often a time to review achievements, assess challenges and prepare new budgets and plans for the year ahead. Recognising that this period can also bring increased financial and emotional pressures, Council encourages community members to take advantage of the support available and participate in upcoming recovery and wellbeing initiatives.

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Recovery is a long-term journey, and through continued investment, collaboration and community connection, Hinchinbrook is building a stronger and more resilient future together.

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The Queensland Budget 2026–27 outlines a range of initiatives set to support communities in the Hinchinbrook region.

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Locally, the Hinchinbrook Health Service will benefit from the delivery of a new CT scanner, improving access to vital diagnostic imaging closer to home and reducing the need for residents to travel for essential healthcare. Road and transport upgrades across North Queensland continue to be prioritised, including ongoing Bruce Highway improvements designed to improve safety, reliability and travel times for regional communities.

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This snapshot covers specific and wider affecting Hinchinbrook state budget announcements. A more expanded overview can be found here at budget.qld.gov.au/budget-papers/#budget-overview

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Specific Regional Area Targets

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Foundation for Homes: Hinchinbrook Trunk Infrastructure Projects 1 & 2

Constructing sewer pump stations and rising mains to support residential developments in Toobanna ($6.3 million over three years) and Ingham ($1.6 million over three years). Part of the Residential Activation Fund delivered in partnership with the Hinchinbrook Shire Council.

Visitor Facilities At Wallaman Falls, Girringun National Park

Upgrading the camping area in Girringun National Park ($3 million in 2026-27).

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Bruce Highway (Ingham-Innisfail), Gairloch Floodway To Ripple Creek

Improving resilience on the Bruce Highway (Ingham-Innisfail), Gairloch Floodway to Ripple Creek. Part of the Queensland Resilience and Risk Reduction Program, delivered in partnership with the Federal Government.

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New CT Scanners

Delivering new CT scanners to the Ingham Health Service to provide easier access to vital diagnostic imaging services closer to home. Part of the Statewide MRI and CT Expansion.

Mount Spec Road Reconstruction Works

Undertaking reconstruction works on Mount Spec Road, under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements in partnership with the Federal Government.

Crime Targets

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More Police On The Frontline

Recruiting more police to grow our frontline.

Circuit Breaker Sentencing

Delivering new court-ordered remote rehabilitation-focused detention for youth offenders to break the cycle of crime and make Queensland safer.

Expanding The Dvconnect Womensline And Mensline

Expanding the capacity of statewide Domestic Family Violence helplines with a new North Queensland Hub for greater immediate response ($31.3 million over four years)

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Proven Initiatives Early Intervention Programs

Delivering community-led, results-driven early intervention programs with a proven track record of success, to turn youth away from crime and make Queensland safer.

Staying On Track

Reducing repeat crime with intensive 12-month rehabilitation programs after detention to keep youth on the right path.

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Domestic And Family Violence Electronic Monitoring

Helping protect victims of domestic and family violence with an electronic monitoring pilot program for high-risk domestic and family violence offenders.

Fixing The DNA Debacle

Continuing to deliver faster justice for victims by clearing the backlog at the DNA Lab and bolstering Director of Public Prosecutions resources to get cases to court quicker.

Family & Housing Targets

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Supercharged Solar For Renters

Driving down renters’ power bills for more than 6,500 households with solar rebates, saving around $700 a year. Eligible landlords can receive a rebate of up to $3,500 to install solar on rental properties.

More Social & Community Housing

Expanding and improving social and community housing with 328 homes in North Queensland in construction or under contract, towards the target of 53,500 social and community homes by 2044.

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Boost To Buy

Delivering the Boost to Buy home ownership scheme, supporting up to 2,000 first home buyers.

First Home Owner Grant

Supporting first home buyers to buy or build a new home with boosted $30,000 grants to get into the market sooner.

Frontline Housing And Homelessness Services

Delivering housing and homelessness services to vulnerable Queenslanders across North Queensland to assist them to secure longer-term housing and access other specialist support services including temporary accommodation, outreach and connection to broader community services.

$150 Back To School Boost

Better relief you can rely on with a 50% increase to the Back to School Boost, with $150 for every primary school student.

Healthy Kindy Kids

Expanding the Healthy Kindy Kids program statewide, with free vision, hearing and speech development checks for children in kindergarten, giving them the best chance to be ready for school.

Keeping Our Kids Safe

Boosting the safety of children in childcare, schools and the community with $450 million to progress recommendations from the Child Safety Commission of Inquiry, as well as establish a new Queensland Protection Commission and a first-of-its-kind Intelligence Hub.

Wider State Targets

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CopperString

Delivering a record investment in CopperString, including progressing early works, design, approvals and procurement to connect the North West Minerals Province to the national electricity grid. Part of the Queensland Energy Roadmap.

Protecting The Great Barrier Reef

Protecting the Great Barrier Reef for future generations with $330.5 million over five years to deliver practical, on-the-ground action to improve water quality and protect Reef ecosystems now and into the future.

Queensland Fuel Security Plan

Fast-tracking the Taroom Trough Development Plan and investing in new refining and storage capability on Queensland soil.

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