Community News

A BETTER BRUCE FOR HINCHINBROOK

A BETTER BRUCE FOR HINCHINBROOK

A major Bruce Highway upgrade is underway, with works at Gairloch, Ripple Creek, Ingham-Halifax-Bemerside Road and the Cardwell Range targeting safer travel and improved flood resilience. The long-awaited improvements aim to reduce the severity of flooding across key sections of highway and help prevent head-on crashes, addressing challenges that can disrupt communities and isolate motorists during the wet season.

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Judges Set To Crown Country Cups’ Best Dressed

Judges Set To Crown Country Cups’ Best Dressed

This NQIB Country Cups Challenge Qualifier Race Day, racegoers are invited to embrace this year’s theme, Country Glamour. The Herbert River Jockey Club event will feature 10 Fashions on the Field categories, catering to everyone from junior entrants to experienced fashionistas. Categories include Forrest Beach Realty Fashions on the Field, Ingham Mazda Contemporary Lady of the Track, NQ Travel & Cruise Classic Lady of the Track, The Bloom Room Townsville Millinery and Lifelong Supports Best Dressed Man of the Track. Junior and youth categories, alongside Spotter’s Choice, will offer further opportunities to take part. Three judges will bring their individual fashion and racing experience to the competition. Amy Byrnes grew up immersed in racing, travelling to meetings with her family and making memories at Cluden Park. Now a racehorse owner herself, she enjoys attending meets across Queensland and internationally. Amy will be looking for confidence, personality and the joy an outfit brings to its wearer, with an appreciation for thoughtful accessories and finishing touches. Milliner Cat Murphy brings more than a decade of experience creating headwear worn at race meetings across Australia and in London. A passionate racing enthusiast, she values outfits that work cohesively with the theme, combining comfort, confidence and attention to detail. Millinery will naturally be a particular focus, whether a bold statement piece or a classic, understated design. Marnie Davidson brings a competitive edge, having collected 27 sashes during three years of Fashions on the Field competitions around Australia. Her achievements include finalist positions at Flemington’s Melbourne Cup Derby Day and Turnbull Stakes, as well as qualifying for several major fashion events. A self-confessed lover of coordinated looks, Marnie will be keeping an eye out for the little details that bring an outfit together. With experienced judges and a Country Glamour theme, racegoers are encouraged to bring their own interpretation of raceday style to the track. For event information and the full list of categories, visit hrjc.com.au. Dress to impress at the Country Cups this November. Photo sourced: Herbert Rivr Jockey Club

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Council Flood Project Wins State Award

Council Flood Project Wins State Award

Cassowary Coast Regional Council has been recognised for its innovative approach to flood monitoring, taking home the Local Government Mutual Services (LGMS) Risk Excellence Award at the Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) Conference on Tuesday evening. The award recognises Council's Flash Flood Sensor Network project, which uses radar technology to monitor water levels at known flood-prone locations across the region. The information from the flood sensors is integrated into Council’s Disaster Dashboard, giving residents, emergency services and Council access to local conditions as they change. Cassowary Coast Mayor Teresa Millwood said the recognition highlighted Council's commitment to finding practical ways to improve community safety and disaster preparedness. "Living on the Cassowary Coast, we know how quickly heavy rainfall can turn into dangerous flooding, particularly in areas where water levels can rise with very little warning," Mayor Millwood said. "These sensors give us another set of eyes on some of our known flood trouble spots, providing real time information without having to send staff out into potentially dangerous conditions. "What's particularly important is that this information isn't just for Council. Our residents in flood prone areas can also access this information on the Disaster Dashboard to help them asses their risk, get prepared and make plans in case flooding looks likely." The network has already supported information sharing with local police and State Emergency Service personnel around Mission Beach, helping emergency services monitor conditions at known flood-prone locations. Previously, monitoring these locations relied heavily on weather forecasts, community reports and staff inspecting conditions on the ground. The technology provides another source of information to support earlier identification of rising water levels, planning for potential road closures and coordinating responses during heavy rainfall. Council is continuing to assess the network through a three-year trial, using observations from residents and emergency services to verify sensor readings and evaluate its effectiveness. Residents can access flood monitoring information, road updates and other important disaster information on Council’s Disaster Dashboard by ticking *New Water Levels Visit: www.disaster.cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au Caption: Cassowary Coast Regional Council has been recognised for its innovative approach to flood monitoring. Photo supplied

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A Comment From Katter With Federal Member for Kennedy Bob Katter

A Comment From Katter With Federal Member for Kennedy Bob Katter

I have spent sleepless nights since last Monday, praying for my long-term and good friend in the Parliament, Helen Haines, along with her family, staff and the first responders to an inexcusable act on a beautiful human being inside and out, who has brought much sparkling joy and enlightenment to the centre of the crossbench. Whilst we are at opposite ends of the country and representing significantly different electorates, my tremendous respect of Helen’s tenacious advocacy for what she believes in, matches my great appreciation of our genuine friendship. We don’t represent a political party based in Melbourne or Sydney or Brisbane – we represent the people who sent us to parliament: the people of our electorate. And there’s no doubt that a terrible blow has been struck against democracy and the people of Australia. A lady in every sense of the word, Helen is a true moderate of the highest regard across the political spectrum – with the ability to get on with people with very definite views like the teals on one hand, and people like himself on the other. And I cannot help but think of her smiling face, whenever I leave the Chamber and tap her on the shoulder to ask, “You right if I leave this all under your control, Helen?” and her cheerful reply, “Yes Bob,” both of us laughing. Not to mention her culinary skills in constructing the most delicate of sponge cakes. Though I react quite frankly with rage and fury at this evil that can have no exculpatory explanations, may we all pray that God’s blessings are with Helen and her family, staff and friends as we all rally around them to provide the support they need during this extremely difficult time. Hon. Bob Katter MP, Federal Member for Kennedy Federal Kennedy MP Bob Katter at Australian Parliament House with his independent crossbench colleague Helen Haines MP, the Member for Indi. Photo supplied

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Hinchinbrook Adopts $67.2 Million Budget With Focus On Essential Services

June 29, 2026

The community can play a role in reducing costs by reducing waste, recycling, saving water and making everyday choices that reduce demand on services to assist Council in managing long‑term costs. Photo supplied

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Hinchinbrook Shire Council has adopted a $67.2 million budget for 2026-27, with a $14.1 million capital works program aimed at maintaining essential infrastructure while responding to rising costs and planning for the region's future.

Mayor Ramon Jayo said the budget reflected a practical approach that balanced financial responsibility with the delivery of core community services.

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"Council is very aware of the pressures facing residents and businesses, and that this has been central to budget decisions," Cr Jayo said.

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The budget includes 49 capital projects across the shire, with major investment in roads, drainage, water and sewerage infrastructure, community facilities and recreational spaces.

Roads and drainage will receive about $4 million, while $6.1 million has been allocated to water and sewerage infrastructure to improve network reliability and support future growth. A further $1.2 million will go towards buildings and community facilities, with $2.1 million dedicated to parks, walking tracks and environmental initiatives.

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"This is about investing in the infrastructure our community uses every day — roads, drainage, water, sewerage and community facilities," Cr Jayo said.

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The community can play a role in reducing costs by reducing waste, recycling, saving water and making everyday choices that reduce demand on services to assist Council in managing long‑term costs. Photo supplied

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"We are focused on what matters most and that's keeping our region functional, safe and liveable."

More than half of the capital works program will be funded through state and federal grants, including more than $5.1 million from the Residential Activation Fund to extend reticulated sewerage from Ingham to Toobanna and support future housing development.

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Other major projects include the replacement of the Macknade Creek bridge on Old Wharf Road and a $1 million review of Council's finance and corporate management system.

Mayor Jayo said the budget also addressed increasing operational costs, which had risen sharply over the past year.

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"For many years, Council has consistently worked to keep annual rate increases as low as possible in recognition of the unique challenges our community faces, including recurrent natural disasters and an ageing population," he said.

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"However, while this approach has helped ease the burden on ratepayers, it has not always allowed Council to recover the true cost of delivering services. We have been able to absorb those costs in the past, but that is no longer proving possible."

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General rates will increase by 4.5 per cent, with 84 per cent of residential ratepayers expected to pay around $1.70 extra per week or less. Across rates, water, sewerage and waste charges, the average increase will be about $4.01 per week for a typical household.

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Council has also introduced a 30 per cent rate cap for sugarcane, forestry and other rural properties where land valuations have increased significantly.

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Residents are encouraged to reduce waste, recycle and conserve water to help manage long-term service costs.

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Free Haircuts Coming To Ingham

June 29, 2026

The team of the Fresh Start Academy barbering. Photo source: Fresh Start Academy

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The Hinchinbrook community is set to receive a special visit from the team at Fresh Start Academy, who will be offering free haircuts at the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre on Wednesday 1st July.


The Fresh Start barber training academy operates as a social enterprise out of Cairns, providing affordable barbering services and free community haircuts while giving up to 24 young people each year hands-on training, real-world experience and employment opportunities.  

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Participants also receive ongoing support, including case management, supported accommodation, and education and training assistance to help them successfully transition into the workforce.

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Whether it is a simple trim, a new style or just a chance to feel refreshed, everyone is encouraged to come along to the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre to take part, enjoy a free haircut, and support a meaningful initiative.  

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WHAT: Free Haircuts
WHEN: Wednesday, 1st July 2026 from 11:00am to 3:00pm
WHERE: Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre, 71 Townsville Road, Ingham

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Regional Students Still Face Training Barriers Despite $73.8 Million Tradie Investment

June 29, 2026

Community members are calling for greater access to locally delivered trade training, with many students travelling outside the region to complete qualifications. Photo source: TAFE Queensland

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A $73.8 million investment aimed at training more Queensland tradies has been welcomed in North Queensland, but concerns remain that students in regional communities are travelling long distances to access trade training.

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The State and Federal governments recently announced a new Construction Tech TAFE Centre of Excellence, designed to boost the state's construction workforce and support future housing, infrastructure and Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games projects.

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The initiative will establish new construction training facilities at TAFE campuses in Caloundra and Moreton Bay and expand technology-driven training opportunities across Queensland. Federal Skills and Training Minister Andrew Giles said the project would make it "easier and faster for Australians to get into construction jobs", while Queensland Training Minister Ros Bates said it would help address workforce shortages and build the skilled workforce needed for future projects.

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However, the announcement has also reignited discussion about access to training in regional communities such as Ingham, where students often travel to Townsville to complete trade qualifications.

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Hinchinbrook MP Wayde Chiesa said workforce shortages remained one of the biggest challenges facing regional Queensland and supported the government's broader investment in skills and apprenticeships.

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"We know Queensland needs more tradies, particularly with the pipeline of housing, infrastructure and construction projects right across the state," he explained.

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While apprenticeship numbers and completions have been improving, Mr Chiesa said local residents continued to raise concerns about the availability of training opportunities closer to home. He said access barriers could make it harder for young people to develop skills, secure employment and remain in their communities.

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"At a local level, I have heard loud and clear the concerns of the Hinchinbrook community about access to training opportunities and the barriers this creates for local people trying to build skills, secure jobs and stay in the region," Mr Chiesa acknowledged.

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Townsville would continue to serve as North Queensland's major training hub, but Mr Chiesa said there was scope to explore more flexible delivery models in communities where industry demand existed.

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"Not every trade course can realistically be delivered in every regional town; however, young people should not have to leave their community unnecessarily to pursue a career," he said.

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The issue extends beyond students, with travel requirements creating additional costs and time pressures for apprentices, employers and families. Mr Chiesa said while travel subsidies and support programs existed, greater use of block training, virtual learning, mobile delivery and partnerships between training providers and local industry could improve access.

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The need for skilled workers is already being felt across the region, with labour shortages contributing to delays in housing construction, maintenance work, infrastructure delivery and business growth.

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"Whether it is housing construction, maintenance, infrastructure delivery or small business growth, a lack of skilled workers creates delays, increases costs and puts pressure on local communities," Mr Chiesa said.

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As governments continue to invest in growing Queensland's trade workforce, Mr Chiesa said ensuring regional communities could access those opportunities locally would remain a key priority.

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"Our region has a strong work ethic and enormous potential. We have young people who want opportunities locally, employers looking for skilled workers and industries that continue to grow," he said.

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Pet of the Week - Meet Diesel!

June 29, 2026

Hello! I'm a 1-year-old Bull Arab with a sweet and gentle nature, and I'm looking for a new family to share my love and loyalty with. If you're searching for a faithful friend who enjoys both playtime and quiet companionship, I might just be the perfect match for you.

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One thing about me, I tend to be pretty quiet and don't bark much, making me an easy-going fella. I don’t much like other dogs, but cats and kids are the best! I would love to be part of your family and join in both the exciting and laid-back moments. So, if you'reready for a loyal and loving buddy who's eager to join your life's adventures, I'm here waiting to meet you!

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Included in adoption fee of $495, Diesel is DESEXED, MICRO-CHIPPED, up to date VACCINATIONS, FLEA/TICK/INTESTINAL WORM treated & on PROHEART. Meet Deisel today by enquiring at angelpawsinc.com.au

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Sex: Male

Breed: Bull Arab X

Colour: Tuxedo

DOB: 01/01/2025

Cat Friendly: Yes

Dog Friendly: No

Kid Friendly: Yes

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Upcoming Jennifer Board Memorial Adoption Day!
WHERE: Victoria Park, South Townsville
WHEN: Fields open 7:45am for the Football Carnival

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Local Women Honoured With OAM Awards - Nurse and Foster Carer Recognised for Outstanding Community Service

June 22, 2026

Lesley Pryor with her two foster sons

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Two local women have been recognised with the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for their outstanding dedication to community service, with one working in nursing and the other in foster care.

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Both recipients have spent years quietly supporting others, giving their time, care and compassion to those in need without expectation of recognition. Their awards acknowledge a lifetime of service that has made a lasting impact across the community.

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Read the full story here: https://www.hinchinbrooklife.com/article/two-hinchinbrook-heroes-receive-order-of-australia-medals

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Bags Of Kindness For Local Pets In Need

June 22, 2026

The Cassowary Coast Paws and Claws volunteers alongside the Pets Domain Innisfail team and the donated SavourLife pet food. Photo source: Cassowary Coast Paws and Claws Inc

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Cassowary Coast Paws and Claws Inc has thanked the community for helping make the SavourLife Pet Adoption Day a huge success, with local generosity translating into much-needed support for animals in care.

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The volunteer-run not-for-profit animal shelter joined Pets Domain Innisfail on 30th May for the special event, bringing together pet lovers and supporters of animal welfare.

A big thank you goes to everyone who purchased a bag of SavourLife pet food on the day. For every bag purchased, SavourLife donated an additional bag of food, helping double the impact of the community’s support.

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The shelter also extended its gratitude to Pets Domain Innisfail for hosting the event and welcoming the organisation into the store, as well as SavourLife for its generous contribution of dog and cat food.

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These donations will help provide essential supplies for animals awaiting their forever homes and support the ongoing work of Cassowary Coast Paws and Claws Inc.

As a volunteer-run organisation, the shelter relies heavily on the kindness and generosity of the local community to continue caring for animals in need.

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The team said they were incredibly grateful for everyone who attended, donated and helped support the cause, proving that small acts of kindness can make a big difference for local pets.

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Getting On The Road With FNQ Motor Group

June 22, 2026

Finding the right vehicle close to home is important for local drivers, and FNQ Motor Group helps keep the process simple and accessible for customers across Tully, Innisfail and the wider Cassowary Coast region.

With dealerships in Tully and Innisfail, FNQ Motor Group offers a wide range of new, demonstrator and pre-owned vehicles, along with finance options, servicing and parts support.

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The team understands the needs of regional drivers, from families searching for their next vehicle to locals needing a reliable work ute or a dependable run-around people mover for everyday life.

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With a focus on customer care and building long-term relationships, FNQ Motor Group has become a trusted name for drivers throughout the region.

Whether you are upgrading, searching for your first vehicle or keeping your current car running smoothly, the team is ready to assist with local knowledge and a broad range of options.

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The dealerships regularly carry a diverse selection of vehicles to suit different lifestyles, including practical family cars, capable SUVs, work vehicles and models designed for weekend adventures. With a changing range of stock available, customers can explore options that match their needs, budget and driving habits.

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The FNQ Motor team can also help customers compare models, arrange test drives and find a vehicle that suits their day-to-day requirements. From busy family schedules to rural driving conditions, FNQ Motor Group understands what local motorists need.

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Supporting communities from Tully through to Innisfail, FNQ Motor Group continues to provide motorists with convenient access to quality vehicles and professional service close to home.

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Celebrating The First Week of Cassowary Coast Life

June 22, 2026

We were thrilled to see locals picking up a copy of our first edition of Cassowary Life. Pictured are our very first readers – two lovely gentlemen from the men’s shed in Tully

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Thanks for the warm welcome, Cassowary Coast!  

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Housing Stability: More Than Just a Place to Live

June 22, 2026

The Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre trades team hard at work. Photo supplied

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by Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre

When we think about housing, it's easy to think simply about having a roof over our heads. However, safe and stable housing plays a much bigger role in our lives than many people realise.

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A secure home provides more than shelter. It offers safety, stability, privacy, connection to community, and a foundation from which individuals and families can thrive. Stable housing supports physical and mental wellbeing, helps children succeed at school, enables people to maintain employment, and provides a sense of belonging and security.

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Unfortunately, rising living costs, limited housing availability and changing life circumstances continue to place pressure on many households. For some people, maintaining suitable housing can become increasingly difficult, while others may find themselves facing housing insecurity or homelessness through no fault of their own.

At Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre, we understand that everyone's circumstances are different. Our Housing and Homelessness Services support individuals and families who are experiencing homelessness or are at risk of becoming homeless. Our goal is to help people achieve greater self-reliance, independence and housing stability.

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HCSC also provides long-term housing options for eligible low-income families, as well as one and two-bedroom units for individuals and couples aged over 55 years.

Maintaining a safe home environment is another important part of housing stability. Through our Home and Yard Maintenance Social Enterprise, HCSC provides comprehensive household maintenance services throughout the Hinchinbrook region. The service supports community housing providers, local welfare and community organisations, and householders who are frail, living with disability, or experiencing economic disadvantage.

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Simple tasks such as yard maintenance, minor household works and property upkeep can make a significant difference to safety, accessibility and quality of life, particularly for older community members and those facing barriers to maintaining their homes independently.

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Whether someone needs support to maintain their housing, access suitable accommodation, or keep their home safe and functional, assistance may be available.

If you would like to learn more about HCSC's Housing and Homelessness Services or Home and Yard Maintenance Social Enterprise, we encourage you to contact our team for further information.

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Because everyone deserves the security, dignity and peace of mind that comes with having a safe place to call home.

While this month we focus on the importance of safe and stable housing, next month we will take a closer look at the growing housing and homelessness challenges affecting communities across Australia, including regional areas such as our Hinchinbrook region.

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In recognition of Homelessness Awareness Week, we will explore the realities of housing insecurity, the impact homelessness can have on individuals and families, and the support services available within our community.

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We will also be sharing information about HCSC's upcoming Homelessness event in August, which will bring together services and organisations to provide information, support and connection for community members seeking assistance or wanting to learn more about housing and homelessness issues.

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We encourage community members to keep an eye out for next month's article for further details.

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Meet The Agent: Mark Spina of Ingham Real Estate

June 22, 2026

Mark Spina is the Director of Ingham Real Estate. Photo sourced: Inghamrealestate.com

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Mark Spina has built a long career in real estate, bringing decades of experience and a long-standing commitment to helping people buy, sell, rent and manage property throughout the Hinchinbrook region.

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As Director of Ingham Real Estate, Mark has been working in the industry since 1999, beginning his career as a Real Estate Salesperson in Hervey Bay. In 2007, Mark and his wife returned home to Ingham and purchased Ingham Real Estate, continuing to build a trusted local business.

Mark and his team assist clients across all areas of property sales and property management, working with a wide range of properties and people throughout the region.

He builds trust with his clients, focusing on clear conversations and strong relationships throughout each transaction.

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“Working one on one with Sellers and Buyers, Landlords and Tenants with open communication”

Mark said the team at Ingham Real Estate appreciates everyone who has chosen to work with them over the years.

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“We would like to thank all past and future Sellers, Buyers, Landlords and Tenants for choosing to deal with Ingham Real Estate. Big or Small, we Rent and Sell em’ all.”

Mark believes the Hinchinbrook Shire remains a great place for those looking to take their first step into the property market.

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“The Hinchinbrook Shire is a fantastic place to purchase a first home. There are still affordable properties to purchase and it’s a great place to raise a family.”

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Nation-Leading E-Mobility Laws Introduced To Make Queensland Safer

June 22, 2026

E-Mobility Laws have now been introduced to make Queenslanders safer. Photo sourced: Shutterstock

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New e-mobility laws will come into effect across Queensland from 1st July, introducing stronger rules and enforcement powers aimed at reducing dangerous behaviours involving e-scooters and e-bikes.

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The new laws will give Queensland Police additional powers to tackle illegal and high-powered devices, including the ability to seize and destroy devices that do not comply with safety requirements.

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Under the reforms, e-bikes and scooters capable of exceeding 25km/h without assistance will be banned, while a 12km/h speed limit will apply in areas where riders are travelling near pedestrians.

Police will also have the power to conduct random breath testing for riders in public places from 1st July. Riders found over the 0.05 blood alcohol limit will face fines of more than $500, with maximum court penalties of up to $6,908.

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Higher penalties will also apply for offences including speeding, failing to wear a helmet, careless riding, illegally carrying passengers and riding Personal Mobility Devices on prohibited roads.

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The laws will also introduce licensing requirements for riders, with exemptions available for people with medical conditions or disabilities. Riders aged 12 to 17 will be able to use e-mobility devices under parental supervision from 31st August, while parents may be held accountable if children under 16 are found riding illegally.

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The reforms follow growing community concerns around illegal and high-powered e-mobility devices and aim to create clearer rules around who can ride, what devices can be used, where they can travel and how fast they can go.

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The changes were informed by community feedback and expert consultation, with the goal of improving safety while allowing responsible e-mobility use to continue.  

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More information can be found on the Queensland Government’s website.

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Global Traders Roadshow Returns This Week

June 22, 2026

Senior Sugar Trader Peter Bingham (second from left) is excited to meet with growers and share insights into global sugar markets during Wilmar's Global Traders Roadshow this week. Photo supplied

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Simon Hood

Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

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June is shaping up to be a busy month, and we look forward to catching up with growers across our milling regions through a range of events and activities.

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This week, our Global Traders Roadshow returns, bringing together Wilmar's global trading experts and local Grower Marketing team to discuss the latest developments in sugar and currency markets. These sessions provide a valuable opportunity to hear directly from the people monitoring global markets every day, while also asking questions about pricing options and current market conditions. We are looking forward to connecting with those of you who have put their name down to attend.

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We're also reminding growers that nominations for the 2027 Managed Pool Plus close on 30 June. If you've been considering the pool, now is the time to act.

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The Managed Pool Plus is designed for growers seeking a longer-term approach to pricing in volatile markets, with active management across both sugar and currency markets. The 2025 season has highlighted the value of this strategy, with the pool delivering a result above the seasonal average, demonstrating the benefits of disciplined pricing over an extended window rather than relying on short-term market movements. While past performance is never a guarantee of future returns, the result reinforces the value of having experienced market specialists actively managing price risk through changing market conditions.

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If you'd like to learn more before nominations close, speak with your local Grower Marketing Relationship Manager or catch us at one of the Global Traders Roadshow events.

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Beyond the markets, we're proud to continue supporting the local communities that support our industry. Throughout June, Wilmar Grower Marketing is once again sponsoring several regional events, including the Sarina Tractor Pull, Proserpine Cane Awards and Ingham Tractor Pull.

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These events celebrate the people who make our industry what it is and provide a great opportunity for families, growers and the wider community to come together. We look forward to seeing many familiar faces, celebrating another season and continuing the conversations that matter most to our growers.

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We hope to see you at one of our roadshow sessions or community events over the coming weeks.

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Sam Earns Queensland Referees Selection

June 22, 2026

Congratulations to Sam on her selection in the Queensland Referees Team for the 16–18 Years Touch Football Championships.

The achievement recognises Sam’s dedication, professionalism and strong understanding of the game, as well as her commitment to officiating at a high level.

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Representing Queensland is a significant honour and a testament to the hard work Sam has invested in her refereeing journey.

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The school community is incredibly proud of her accomplishment and wishes her all the best at the championships.

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Cassowary Coast Expands Access to Dog Off-Leash Areas Across the Region

June 22, 2026

Dog owners across the Cassowary Coast have a range of designated off-leash areas available to exercise and socialise their pets, with Council highlighting the importance of responsible use to keep both animals and the community safe.

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Cassowary Coast Regional Council has established off-leash spaces in Cardwell, Tully Heads, Tully, South Mission Beach, Wongaling Beach, Mission Beach, Kurrimine Beach, Innisfail and Cowley Beach, providing residents and visitors with accessible locations to let their dogs roam under full control.

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The designated areas, including popular spots such as Coral Sea Park in Cardwell, Wildsoet Park in Tully, and Wrights Park in Innisfail, are designed to support healthy lifestyles for pets and owners while also helping reduce conflict in sensitive environmental and wildlife areas.

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Council notes that dog off-leash areas are an important community asset, offering opportunities for physical activity, social interaction and improved wellbeing when used responsibly.

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Dog owners are reminded that even in off-leash areas, animals must remain under control and respond to commands such as recall. Owners are also required to ensure dogs are not causing a nuisance to others, and that all waste is collected and disposed of appropriately.

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Additional responsibilities include ensuring dogs are registered with Council, regularly wormed and kept up to date with vaccinations.

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Council encourages residents to follow the Cassowary Coast Good Dog Owners Guide to help maintain safe, enjoyable and well-managed spaces for all users.

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For more information or enquiries, residents can contact Cassowary Coast Regional Council on 1300 763 903 or via enquiries@cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au.

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Planned Hazard Reduction Burn To Take Place At Dallachy Aerodrome

June 22, 2026

A planned hazard reduction burn will be carried out at Dallachy Aerodrome in Cardwell from 23rd June, weather permitting, as part of ongoing fire management efforts across the Cassowary Coast.

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The operation is being undertaken by Cassowary Coast Regional Council in partnership with Girringun Aboriginal Corporation and the Queensland Fire Department (Rural Fire Service).

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The planned burn aims to restore grassland and maintain healthy habitat, reduce bushfire risk to the aerodrome and surrounding infrastructure, and create a mosaic of burnt and unburnt areas to support both environmental and fire management outcomes.

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Residents in Cardwell, Kennedy Valley and surrounding areas may notice smoke during the operation, with visibility potentially affected along the Bruce Highway. Motorists are advised to drive with caution if smoke is present.

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Authorities are advising residents to keep windows and doors closed during periods of smoke and to ensure those with respiratory conditions have necessary medication on hand. The public is also reminded not to enter closed areas while operations are underway.

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For updates on planned burns across Queensland, visit www.fire.qld.gov.au/prepare/bushfire/permit-to-burn-map.

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