The Hinchinbrook by-election is set to be a hot contest after Nick Dametto’s unexpected resignation earlier this month. The candidates are now confirmed ahead of the fast-approaching vote. Katter’s Australian Party has nominated Mark Molachino, former Townsville Deputy Mayor and councillor, who brings years of local government experience. His recent switch from the Labor Party has attracted attention. The LNP’s pick is Wayde Chiesa, a local former Regional Development Australia CEO. Premier David Crisafulli praised Chiesa’s commitment to tackling crime, flood recovery, and supporting local agriculture. One Nation’s candidate is Lisa Buchtmann, a Cardwell small business owner and ex-army truck driver, focused on youth crime, tourism infrastructure, and housing affordability. Labor confirmed it will run a candidate but has not yet made an official announcement. As campaigning ramps up, voters will be closely watching these candidates and their policies ahead of the by-election. Read more about the candidates on p.3. **p.3 ** TITLE: Candidates announced for Hinchinbrook by-election after Dametto’s shock exit Following Nick Dametto’s shock announcement that he will step down from the seat of Hinchinbrook to pursue the Mayoralty of Townsville, the candidates for the upcoming by-election have now been revealed, with the election fast approaching. Mark Molachino Representing Katter’s Australian Party in the Hinchinbrook by-election is Mark Molachino, the former Deputy Mayor of Townsville. Mr Molachino served as the councillor for Division 4 from 2016 until he lost his seat in the 2024 local government elections. Throughout his time on council, he was involved in a range of infrastructure, planning, and community initiatives across the city. Prior to joining Katter’s Australian Party, Mr Molachino was previously affiliated with the Labor Party, a detail that has drawn attention in the lead-up to the by-election. His candidacy brings both experience and a notable shift in political alignment. Wayde Chiesa Wayde Chiesa has been announced as the LNP candidate for the Hinchinbrook by-election, launched by Premier David Crisafulli in Ingham. A former RDA CEO, Mr Chiesa grew up locally and said he’s “passionate about delivering for this region.” Premier Crisafulli, who’s known him for decades, said Chiesa is “made of the right stuff” and “will do a great job.” Mr Chiesa identified crime, flood recovery, and agriculture as key issues. “I will fight 24/7 to make our community safer,” he said, backing new CCTV under the Secure Communities program. “I’m getting off the bench and on the field,” he added. Lisa Buchtmann Former army truck driver and small business owner Lisa Buchtmann will stand as One Nation’s candidate for the Hinchinbrook by-election. Based in Cardwell, the 40-year-old is focused on tourism infrastructure, youth crime, housing affordability, and cost of living. “I’m a mother with a teenage son and I’m very concerned about his future in our community, and the future for all kids in Hinchinbrook,” Ms Buchtmann said. She pointed to the Bruce Highway’s poor condition and backed One Nation’s plans to “slash immigration,” dismantle “net zero policies,” and reduce youth crime through programs like “Operation Hard Yakka” and a judicial accountability panel. Labor Party The Labor Party has confirmed it will contest the by-election, although a formal announcement of its candidate is yet to be made. As the political arena heats up, more information on each candidate will be shared to help inform your vote - you can read more in our 'Meet the Candidates' special in the paper next week.
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Hiya Hinchinbrookshire! Goodness, it felt like I didn’t sleep a wink all week, as I was positively buzzing with anticipation for my Maraka Queen introductory events last weekend. I haven’t stepped out of my comfort zone so much since I was 10 years old performing ballet at QPAC in Brisbane. You’d think being a journalist would make me an excellent public speaker, but I still get shaky hands. I loved really getting to know my fellow queens and the little princesses, and I think we all looked stunning. And no, we weren’t all told to wear blue, as many people asked us; it just so happened we all have very good taste. Blue for winners was my thought because we all are winners. It takes a lot of courage to do something like this, and I commend each and every one of my fellow entrants. The Maraka Afternoon Tea was a highlight. It was wonderful to see all the town’s ladies done up gorgeously. I can’t wait for the Parade and Mardi Gras, as any occasion to get glitzed up is a good one. I hope to see you all out there in the crowds as the other queens and I wave from the back of our utes. [SIGNATURE] Fun Fact: My shoe broke just before we were sashed as queens. Thank you to the amazing bar staff on Wine & Cheese Night, who pulled out so much tape to strap my shoe down and keep me going!
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Catherine Zupp, a valued member of the Ingham community and the Freedom Riders Association of Townsville, recently wrote to the paper to express her gratitude to the Ingham and Herbert River district for their ongoing support of the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS). This year’s fundraising efforts raised an impressive $9,560.34 locally, contributing to a total of $13,600 handed over to the RFDS. Catherine wrote, “Your commitment to this cause makes a huge impact.” The Royal Flying Doctor Service continues to be an essential service for rural and remote communities, providing emergency medical care and support across vast regions. The generosity of local residents and supporters ensures that the RFDS can keep doing its vital work. The Freedom Riders Association of Townsville has long been a supporter of this cause, combining their passion for riding with fundraising efforts that unite communities across North Queensland. Anyone interested in supporting next year’s fundraiser or joining the 2026 motorcycle ride from Kurrimine Beach to Karumba is encouraged to contact Austin Zupp on 0439 922 165 for more information. The ongoing dedication of locals continues to make a real difference for those who rely on the Flying Doctor. Well done, Freedom Riders Association of Townsville!
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Merlin Gammon ran through Ingham on the 18th as part of his ‘Yorkmania’ journey — a Cape York to Tasmania adventure on foot. He stopped in for a morning of Parkrunning with locals at the Palm Creek course and narrowly beat the local top runner, Jayon Catasti, by just eight seconds to take first place. "Decided to ditch the trailer and see if the legs still had any speed in them at Palm Creek Parkrun. I told myself I would just cruise but my competitive side took over and I ended up running faster and faster," he said. "(It) Felt good to let the legs loose and surprisingly pulled up well afterwards, I ended up having one of my best days on the road, so maybe the change in pace is what my legs needed? Locals were very friendly, (we) had some good chats afterwards." Merlin is on a mission to walk, but mostly run, from Cape York to Tasmania. He is taking on Ned’s Uncomfortable Challenge, a personal endurance challenge designed to push participants far beyond their comfort zones while raising awareness and funds for Australians experiencing homelessness. The challenge encourages people to tackle a difficult physical or mental feat, set ambitious goals, and use their journey to support a cause that matters. His next goal is to cover the distance from Townsville to Rockhampton in just 10 days, a target well within reach given his average of 71 km per day. "One of the main reasons I decided to embark on the YORKMANIA mission was to push myself beyond my perceived limits and this challenge will do exactly that," Merlin said. "If a goal doesn’t scare you then it probably isn’t big enough. Time to see what the human body and mind can really do!" "Sky ain’t the limit, your mind is. Anything is possible once you release the mind from its shackles." If you would like to support Merlin and his journey, follow him on Instagram @wizardofrun or donate via his fundraiser to help him reach his $1000 goal at www.neddsuncomfortablechallenge.com/fundraiser/merlingammon
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One of Hinchinbrook’s most iconic facilities is getting a facelift, with reconstruction works now underway on the ramp up to the Lucinda Jetty. Originally constructed in 1979, the Lucinda Jetty has been a vital asset to the region, and now after more than four decades of service the concrete structure that forms the ramp is being replaced to ensure it continues to serve the local sugar industry for many years to come.
The works form part of Sugar Terminals Limited’s (STL) $30 million investment in the Lucinda Jetty over the next 5 years. STL’s Assets and Engineering Manager, Richard Hughes said “This project will give the structure another 50 years of life and ensure safety for heavy vehicles accessing the offshore wharf to maintain the conveyor and the shiploader”.
STL’s terminal operator QSL Operations has engaged Townsville-based construction company CivilPlus to perform the work. Locals and visitors are advised that construction traffic will increase along Bruce Parade and that vacant Port land adjacent to the Sugar Terminal is being used for the contractor’s office and staging area. During the construction, access to the beach will be restricted, but alternate pedestrian pathways will be made available when possible.
QSL Operations Asset Services Manager, Monica Accornero said "While there may be some disruptions, we are committed to keeping the community informed and ensuring the works are completed as smoothly and safely as possible."
The project also brings positive impacts beyond the jetty itself. Workers have been brought into the Hinchinbrook region to assist with the construction, providing a boost to the local economy through accommodation, supplies, and services.
CivilPlus’s Senior Project Manager, Steve Olsen said “"We are proud that STL has trusted CivilPlus to deliver this important project, and we look forward to creating a long-lasting relationship with the sugar terminals".
The project team will provide regular updates throughout the construction works.
Queensland Minister for Primary Industries, Tony Perrett, met with cane growers near Ingham today during a visit to the Herbert River region, where many farming families were impacted by flooding earlier this year.
In town for a Community Cabinet meeting and the Link2Country Expo, the Minister also visited a local cane farm to hear directly from growers about the challenges they face and the need for fairer access to disaster support.
CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan said the visit was a valuable opportunity to raise ongoing concerns around how disaster recovery rules apply to modern farming businesses.
“Many growers earn a portion of their income through ag-related contracting work like planting or harvesting, but under the current definition of ‘primary producer’, they’re often excluded from support,” Mr Galligan said.
He said this issue became especially clear following the summer flooding, which disrupted farming operations across several cane-growing districts, including Herbert River.
“Growers doing it tough need support that reflects the reality of how they run their businesses today,” Mr Galligan said. “It’s not just about one season – it’s about making the system fairer and more effective going forward.”
CANEGROWERS, in partnership with the Queensland Farmers’ Federation, continues to advocate for a broader, more realistic definition under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).
“We appreciate Minister Perrett taking the time to speak with growers on the ground,” Mr Galligan said. “We’ll keep working with both state and federal governments to make sure no grower is left out when disaster strikes."
Tucked away in the rural town of Trebonne is one of Australia’s rarest sporting landmarks — a Pelota Mano (Basque handball) court. Built by Spanish and Basque migrants in the late 1950s, this unique site is a must-see for history and culture lovers.
Pelota Mano, a fast-paced traditional game played by hitting a ball against a wall with the hand, was once a popular pastime in the area. Today, the court stands as a fascinating reminder of Hinchinbrook’s multicultural roots.
Visitors can view the court and imagine the energy of a match once cheered on by the local community. It’s a hidden gem that offers a surprising twist to your journey through the Hinchinbrook region.
Link2Country Expo and Find Your Future in Hinchinbrook
What a massive weekend just gone. Many events were hosted and there definitely was something for people of all ages to participate in and enjoy. The inaugural Link2Country Expo at the Ingham Showgrounds was brilliant with trade displays, machinery, markets and entertainment galore. Friday was exceptional for the students of our district, with great interest in the Find Your Future programs, and interaction with the many tradies and other business people on site willing to share their knowledge on career and employment opportunities and pathways right here in our district for our future development. Congratulations to Nicole Chiesa and her team for putting on such an inspiring exposition of our district. Well done girls.
Weekend Activities
The beaches and water ways of our district were also very busy over the weekend with two classic fishing competitions running hot. The annual Taylors Beach Family Fishing Tournament was again an outstanding success, with around 285 competitors registered and enjoying a truly family orientated classic that saw the young ones this year show the oldies what fishing was all about. Congratulations to the Taylors Beach Progress Association on yet another fantastic event. Over in the Channel Country, the more serious Annual Hinchinbrook Catch and Release Tournament hosted by the Ingham Rod and Reel Association saw 98 competitors compete for the title of Champion Angler. This year the winning combination was Brody Lamb and Dion Darr. The two day contest saw 305 barra boated.
Congratulations to the organisers of the competitions for putting on such great events, bringing much enjoyment and opportunity of fellowship to our community.
To round the weekend off, we had Junior Rugby League at the Crushers on Saturday and Ingham Soccer Club hosting the regional competition on Friday night. Throw in the old time dancing at Stone River Hall on Saturday night, and you will see that there truly was something for everyone to enjoy.
A big thank you to the committees and organisers of all events. Without you and your drive to support our communities, things would simply not happen.
Commencement of Crushing Season
Just a reminder to all that the sugar cane season is upon us with a scheduled commencement of crushing announced for 10 June 2025. For anyone new to our district, this means increased traffic activity on our local roads with cane haul outs and harvesters travelling about getting cane from paddock to rail and cane trains crossing roads at established intersections throughout the district. Wilmar has indicated that cane train movements can be expected well before the tenth, due to logistical and training reasons, so be on the lookout for them now.
What a weekend, what an amazing showcase of local industry and talent! The Link2Country Expo was jam-packed with informative booths, sweet treats, giant agriculture equipment, trade experiences and even mock cattle auctions and just plain ol' whip-cracking fun.
So many schools turned out to see what their future could hold, and their arms - filled with goody bags - as the children tried out activities like honey-spinning and tractor pulling. Huge thank you to the organisers, sponsors, and all those who bought a ticket and enjoyed all the Expo had to offer, cant wait for next year!
The inaugural Link2Country Expo made a vibrant debut at the Ingham Showgrounds on 23 and 24 May, drawing crowds from across the Hinchinbrook region and beyond. Hosted by CANEGROWERS Herbert River in partnership with Hinchinbrook Shire Council and the Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Tourism, the two-day event proved a roaring success, shining a spotlight on agriculture, careers, and community spirit.
Festivities kicked off Friday morning, setting the tone for a weekend rich in energy, education, and inspiration. Over 500 students and general public explored hands-on agri-skills, cutting-edge technology like drones and VR.
Attendees connected directly with industry leaders offering career pathways across agriculture, trades, health, tourism, and more. The evening also held an official welcome by the Mayor of Hinchinbrook Ramon Jayo and the lovely ladies, Hannah and Nicole who organised the event, followed by live music and an open bar.
The Find Your Future in Hinchinbrook initiative, integrated into the Expo for the first time, was a standout feature that was offering job seekers live vacancies and application support. From excavator demonstrations and cattle handling to helicopter fly-ins and comedic performances from the beloved CrackUp Sisters, every corner of the showgrounds buzzed with opportunity and entertainment.
The Expo embodied the region’s commitment to building a resilient and locally supported workforce. As organisers and community groups reflect on the event’s success, it's clear that Link2Country has planted seeds of inspiration that will grow well beyond the weekend.
With strong community backing and regional participation, the future of agriculture and local industry is looking brighter than ever, see the expo in the Photo gallery here:
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Hello Hinchinbrook,
I thought I would mention a few areas in the Infrastructure Portfolio.
Stormwater is the run-off from rain that falls on a roof or paved area like a driveway, road or footpath that flows into a stormwater drain. Council maintains a complex stormwater drainage network which includes many different types of drainage structures such as: Unlined drains (including natural waterways) and concrete lined open drains, Underground pipes and culverts, grates and other inlet or outlet structures.
A drainage easement is a portion of land that a property owner has granted to Council to enable the carriage of stormwater through to the main drainage system.
Illegal dumping of green waste and household rubbish in waterways, easements and drains increases the risk of flooding to properties and costs millions of dollars in property damage across the region.
Under the conditions attached to an easement, detailed on a current title search, a property owner must not obstruct the free flow of water along the drainage pathway.
Dumping waste, planting garden beds or building fences across the flow path are all examples of activities that can obstruct stormwater flow.
Council is also responsible for maintaining approximately 9 kilometres of footpaths (not including parks) and numerous boardwalks and off-road recreational walking tracks. Most paths are concrete however, some may be other finishes such as pavers, asphalt, timber or compacted rock such as crusher dust.
All paths are shared facilities for pedestrians and cyclists unless signed otherwise.
Council allocates an annual budget for repairing existing paths and for construction of new paths. Repairs are programmed following annual footpath inspection results however, if other issues are reported, they are treated as a priority. Footpath maintenance activities include concrete patches and repairs, paver re-laying and repairs, pressure cleaning and chewing gum removal and sweeping.
To request a service, make an enquiry or report an issue, please visit Council’s website, Make a Request page https://bit.ly/3HqpQeP.
Once again it is great to be able to pick up a copy of Hinchinbrook Life and read through what has been and what will be happening throughout our Shire. Thank you for the opportunity once again.
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Hinchinbrook Shire Council is proud to be a Diamond Sponsor of the 2025 Link2Country Expo, an exciting new community event designed to educate, entertain and encourage the next generation. Taking place on Friday 23 May and Saturday 24 May 2025 at the Ingham Showgrounds, the Expo is a celebration of rural life, innovation and future opportunity.
This year’s event proudly features the return of Council’s flagship careers initiative, the Find Your Future in Hinchinbrook careers event, now integrated into the broader Expo format. Traditionally held at the TYTO Conference and Events Centre, this relocation to the bustling Expo site elevates the experience, bringing even greater value to students, families and local industry.
Free to attend for all students in Years 6 to 12, the program is offered across both days. Students attending with their schools on Friday can explore in groups, while those unable to attend on the school day are welcome on Saturday 24 May 2025.
Registrations are open now at https://form.jotform.com/251130623637854.
At Location 8, the Find Your Future in Hinchinbrook event will bring together representatives from sectors such as agriculture, health, tourism, trades, education and more. This year’s highlights include a Live Job Noticeboard with real time vacancies, on the spot application opportunities and career support services. Job seekers can even gain points toward Centrelink requirements simply by attending.
Across the rest of the Expo site, 19 other interactive locations will keep students engaged with full day and half day sessions featuring:
• Live cattle handling and working dog demonstrations;
• Excavator operation with Hastings Deering;
• Hands on agri-skills from fencing and plastic welding to suturing and tyre changing;
• Drone and VR technology showcasing the future of farming;
• Fire safety demonstrations with a live bushfire simulator; and
• Horse handling basics, leather stamping, beekeeping and more.
A special treat on Friday morning will be the arrival of Townsville Helicopters at Location 14, an unforgettable introduction to careers in aviation.
As a Diamond Sponsor, Hinchinbrook Shire Council is committed to fostering youth opportunity, supporting regional industry and building a stronger local workforce. The Link2Country Expo is a bold step forward in connecting our young people with the vibrant possibilities available right here in our region.
Don’t miss out on this inspiring two day event! Follow @link2country on all platforms or contact jmacpherson@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au for more details or exhibitor enquiries.
Ingham Showgrounds will come alive this Friday and Saturday with the hosting of the Inaugural “Link 2 Country Expo", an industry event designed at showcasing the abundance of opportunity for work and career pathways that exist in rural communities such as Hinchinbrook.
You will wander through many trade stands offering great deals on matters of interest to you, such as trade tools, boating and other everyday life accessories, and take part in live demonstrations on basic matters such as how to change a tyre, right up to flying drones, as an emerging career opportunity.
The career opportunities are immense, and you will see it all clearly displayed through "Find Your Future in Hinchinbrook" that is on show at this tremendous event.
Want to learn line dancing or maybe whip cracking? Then classes are available for that too. There will be a lot of entertainment for the kids as well, including a kids pedal tractor pull event, and rides for the children’s pleasure.
And don't forget the little farmers fancy dress competition! Prizes will be awarded for the most creative "farm inspired costumes" so let’s see what you’ve got!
There is much to see and do over the two day event and on behalf of our community, I must congratulate Nicole Chiesa and her associates on pulling such a tremendous event together.
The work that has gone into the planning and preparations to make the event as socially and recreationally interactive, with plenty of business networking opportunity, is inspiring and the public looking to the future will benefit from the wares on offer throughout both days.
The expo commences 9am Friday 23 May 2025. The program for the two days is available at www.link2country.com.au and tickets may also be purchased through this website.
We truly have a lot to offer in this district and this expo will bring it all out. So, let’s hook in and support the event and showcase our work and lifestyle to the world. I look forward to seeing you there.
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Following the weather events of February and March, support for community members impacted and looking for assistance is still available at the Hinchinbrook Information and Referral Centre at 73-81 Lannercost Street, Ingham.
Representatives from Community Recovery and Lifeline are available at the Centre Monday to Friday, with other government agency representatives having a presence there on a periodic basis. The community are encouraged to visit the Centre if they are still seeking assistance with matters such as assistance to complete Government Grant applications. This includes Support for Business, financial counselling, wellness coach, GIVIT assistance, Legal Aid, enquiries relating to rebuilding guidelines or any assistance relating to how the recovery process in the Hinchinbrook Shire can support local residents.
As the weeks are passing and the weather improves, preparation for the cane harvest, event and tourist visitation season is well underway. This increased activity in the farming, milling, sporting and hospitality sectors will assist the community in continuing the recovery journey back to the “new normal” of life post event.
Showcasing all the wonderful attractions on offer in the Shire, through several national television shows that have filmed and live broadcast from around the district, facilitates communications to the wider national audience, reminding them Hinchinbrook is ready and excited to again welcome visitors back for another year.
It is indeed encouraging to witness the return of sporting and social competitions, art and culture and the start of the major event season. These social outings provide the community with opportunities to reconnect, share experiences and enjoy more optimistic occasions with each other.
These progressions by no means suggest that the community has overcome all the challenges they have been facing during and since the weather event. However, as we navigate the pathway to full recovery, it is important to acknowledge what has been experienced, plan what can be improved and essential to have a positive vision for the future that can be worked toward achieving.
The Halifax branch of the Queensland Country Women’s Association (QCWA) will join forces with the Ingham Leukaemia Foundation to host a fun-filled afternoon of Hoy and Cent Sale fundraising on Saturday the 24th of May.
Held at the Halifax CWA Hall, the event will begin with a 12:30pm arrival for a 1:30pm start and locals are encouraged to come along for an afternoon of laughter, prizes, and connection all for a great cause.
Attendees can look forward to a variety of activities including lucky door prizes, raffles, hoy games, and a cent sale, with plenty of exciting items up for grabs, and to sweeten the deal, guests will also be treated to a delicious afternoon tea.
The event will raise vital funds for the Ingham Leukaemia Foundation to support local individuals and families affected by leukaemia and other blood cancers and exists as one of the several Halifax QCWA run fundraising events on the 2025 calendar.
Whether you're a card shark or just in it for the cake, everyone is welcome to come along and support this heartfelt community initiative. For more information, please contact the Halifax QCWA branch on 07 3026 1219.
WHAT: Hoy & Cent Sale for the Leukaemia Foundation.
WHEN: Saturday, May 24th from 12:30.
WHERE: Halifax CWA Hall, 6-8 Rupp St, Halifax.
TYTO Regional Art Gallery annually celebrates the outstanding talents of artists through several showcases and award presentations where local and travelling artists work is spotlighted for the community to enjoy.
One of the Gallery’s most prestigious awards will celebrate a decade of excellence as the Opening Night of the 10th Hinchinbrook Birdlife Art Awards is set for Friday, the 1st of August.
The Hinchinbrook Birdlife Art Awards is a lively, annual showcase that captures the beauty of birds through artistic expression. Open to artists of all skill levels from across the country, the event highlights imaginative works inspired by the diverse birdlife found throughout the Hinchinbrook Shire.
Entries to be part of the 10th Hinchinbrook Birdlife Art Awards are open now and will close at 4pm on Monday the 23rd of June and all forms are available for download online at www.gallery.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au. A locally treasured niche, all artwork entered must feature birds from TYTO Regional Art Gallery’s approved list which can also be found on the Gallery’s official website.
Artists may enter in the following sections; Painting (2D), Water Colour, Mixed Media, Digital Media, Works on Paper, Photography, Ceramics, and Sculptural Form. Along with awards presented to the best piece in each section, an Open Award, Local Artist Award, People’s Choice Award and Youth Award will also be celebrated at August’s Opening Night where winning artists will also be awarded a share in over $3,000 in prize money.
All artworks entered will be showcased to the public in a General Display Exhibition at TYTO from Saturday the 2nd of August until Saturday the 30th of August from 10am to 4pm daily.
For all additional inquiries, call 07 4776 4725.
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Recently CANEGROWERS Herbert River conducted a four-day Haul Out Training Course aimed at equipping local jobseekers—along with a few participants who travelled from interstate—with the practical skills required for the upcoming sugarcane harvest. Hosted at Reinaudo’s farm in Ingham, the course trained 11 enthusiastic participants eager to kick-start their careers in the sugarcane industry.
Led by Mackay CANEGROWERS experienced head trainer Ronald Gurnnett, with support from CANEGROWERS Herbert River assistant trainers Steven Marbelli and Terry Motti, the training covered key competencies. These included workplace health and safety, pre-start machinery checks and inspections, haul-out vehicle operation, driving alongside harvesters, and the simulated filling of bins at the nearby siding.
CANEGROWERS Herbert River Chairman, Steven Marbelli, highlighted the course’s practical focus. “The emphasis was on giving participants as much hands-on experience as possible, so they could develop confidence behind the wheel of a haul-out vehicle,” he said.
Frank Scardamaglia, Manager of CANEGROWERS Herbert River, stressed the value of the initiative. “Courses like this are vital for the future of our local industry,” he said. “Attracting new workers is essential, and it’s encouraging to see that most of the participants have already secured employment within the district as a result of this program.”
Mr Scardamaglia also extended thanks to the Reinaudo family for generously providing the venue and machinery. “Their property was ideal for running the course—it had everything we needed.”
This initiative is part of a wider push across Queensland to tackle labour shortages in agriculture. The success of the Herbert River program demonstrates the impact of locally driven training in developing a skilled and job-ready workforce. CANEGROWERS Herbert River remains committed to supporting regional employment and strengthening the long-term sustainability of the sugarcane sector.
For information about future training opportunities, contact CANEGROWERS Herbert River on (07) 4776 5350 or email hroffice@canegrowers.com.au.
At 21 years old, Cooper has been named the Motorcycle Apprentice of the Year (MAOTY) for the QLD/NT Zone, an award that reflects his commitment to mastering the craft of motorcycle mechanics.
Cooper’s journey into the world of motorcycles was practically predestined. Growing up in a family immersed in the trade, his father was a motorcycle mechanic who owned a local shop. This early exposure to bikes sparked a passion that evolved into a career. “Growing up, my dad was a motorcycle mechanic, so I was always around motorbikes,” Cooper shared. “And then I went for work experience at Dad's shop.”
What set Cooper apart from his peers was his hands-on experience, particularly when Cooper found himself running the workshop independently for part of his apprenticeship. “I was working alone, without a tradesman, because he unfortunately had an accident. He had to stand aside, so I was pretty much running the workshop. I got a better a feel for the industry and all aspects of it,” he explained. This experience honed his problem-solving skills and developed his ability to maintain consistent quality, a trait that impressed the MAOTY judges.
“You have to work to a certain quality because you're working on people's equipment. But to do that consistently can be hard,” he shared. Despite the challenges, Cooper believes his ability to adapt and maintain quality set him apart from the other contenders.
Recalling his old mentor, William Cross, Cooper credits with shaping his professional mindset. “Willie, my old tradesman, he's great in teaching the trade. Always saying, ‘There's never such thing as a dumb question,’ always helping me to work the situation out."
With his apprenticeship now complete, Cooper plans to continue working in the trade, driven by a love for motorcycles and a commitment to excellence. Hoping one day for the opportunity to work on his dream bike – the Kawasaki Ninja H2 – Cooper says, "It's the cream of the crop, fastest sports bike ever. It'd be pretty awesome to work on one."
The months prior to the Coral Sea Battle, Japan entered the war on December 7, 1941 with a plan for supremacy in South East Asia, Philippines and the Dutch East Indies. From pre-war documentation seized by the US Forces after Japan's surrender, historians know Japan planned to invade Australia.
Most Australians felt invasion was getting closer each day and repeated media reports and idle gossip did nothing to calm their fears. Reports of what Australia would be like under Japanese rule gave the grimmest accounts. Japanese servicemen were prepared to fight to win or die.
For some time Japanese spotter planes were seen around the Pacific Islands, New Guinea and Australia, and 1942 newspapers carried stories of the capture of an enemy plane carrying photos of major military installations, civilian factories and ports. The Herbert River Express carried reports of 40 enemy planes sighted in the north but the editor, Charles Cockrell played the incidents down as rumours.
Singapore fell to the Japanese on February 18, 1942 and 14,000 Australians were prisoners. The Philippines had also fallen to the Japanese and they invaded New Guinea early in 1942. The AIF were recalled from Europe to reinforce the AMF in Milne Bay and the Owen Stanley Ranges.
There was great concern when the Government drew the Brisbane Line, an imaginary line dividing the country in two, the most important area being a coastal strip taking in Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne where the majority of troops were to be based. It was felt the Japanese could have the rest of Australia. Australians felt more secure when General Douglas MacArthur arrived on March 18, 1942. He felt strongly against the Brisbane Line Plan and told the Government his troops would halt the Japanese invasion in New Guinea.
The Japanese invasion force was approaching Port Moresby via the Coral Sea and the US Navy acting on intelligence reports, despatched the carriers USS Yorktown and USS Lexington to the area on May 1, 1942. The HMAS Australia and HMAS Hobart joined the Allied fleet in the Coral Sea.
By May 7, 1942 the carrier battle began with the first casualties being a tanker USS Neosho and destroyer USS Sims, sunk by aircraft from "Soho" and a number of Japanese and United States aircraft. At 0900 on May 8, both sides located each other simultaneously and at 1100 the Japanese carrier Shokaku was damaged, the US carrier Lexington was hit by two torpedoes and at least two bombs, and by late afternoon Lexington was abandoned and sunk. After the battle the Japanese claimed a tactical victory and the Allies claimed a strategic victory by preventing the assault on Port Moresby.
Today historians know the Battle of the Coral Sea did not prevent Australia from Japanese invasion, nor save Port Moresby from Japanese occupation, but the Allied forces inflicted significant losses to the Japanese Invasion Force. Forced them to enter battles ill-equipped and undermanned, and re-assess their plan of ultimate supremacy in the Pacific Region.
Contributed with thanks by Robert Lang, President of the Cardwell RSL Sub Branch. From the Cardwell 1993 booklet 'Coral Sea Battle Memorial: 1942 the experiences and memories of World War II, through the eyes of the local residents.
After enduring the devastating floods the Brothers Sports and Community Club is making a remarkable comeback. Thanks to the tireless efforts of dedicated committee members, the club is steadily returning to full operation with countless hours invested in restoring and upgrading the facility.
A key milestone in the club’s recovery is the return of Brothers Bingo on Wednesday, May 21st, at 9:30 am. Bingo has been a cherished tradition at the club since 1967, fostering a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere that has been integral to its enduring success.
Ingham Social Darts has already been back for five weeks, with players embracing the new upstairs location and amenities. Social darts are held every Wednesday, with check-in required before 7:00 pm. An exciting highlight on the horizon is the annual challenge match against Cardwell, scheduled for Saturday, May 24th. Spirits are high, and the darts community is thriving.
Friday trade will resume on May 23rd, marking another step toward normalcy. While the kitchen remains out of operation, patrons will still enjoy snacks, served in the revamped upstairs area. Traditional activities like the jackpot and raffles will resume, and a special screening of the 1985 reserve grade Grand Final will also take place, inviting former players and the community to share in some nostalgic memories.
As the community gathers once again, it’s clear that the floods couldn’t dampen the Brothers Sports and Community Club’s unwavering sense of community and tradition.
Wednesdays
9:30am Brothers Bingo.
The beloved Brothers Bingo is back after the club's recovery efforts. Running continuously since 1967, reconnect with familiar faces, and enjoy the excitement of Bingo once again.
7:00pm Social Darts.
Social darts have been back in full swing for five weeks, and the enthusiasm is stronger than ever. Players are to check in before 7pm to join the competition and experience the friendly spirit of the game.
Fridays
4pm - 11pm Friday Trade.
Join us as Friday trading returns and snacks will be available to ensure everyone feels welcome. Usual jackpot games and raffles will continue, and on May 23rd we’ll be screening the 1985 Reserve Grade Grand Final for a touch of nostalgia.
Saturday 24 May
11am Social Darts Annual Challenge: Ingham vs. Cardwell.
Mark your calendars as the players are eager to showcase their skills in a friendly yet competitive environment. Don’t miss this chance to support your team and enjoy a great day of darts. Sign up before 11am.
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