Australian farmers are set to benefit from faster access to fertiliser following new measures introduced by the Government to streamline import processes without compromising biosecurity.

Announced on 16 April 2026, the changes aim to reduce delays at ports, cut costs and ease administrative burdens, while maintaining Australia’s strict biosecurity standards.

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The Government said the move comes amid ongoing global pressure on fertiliser supply, particularly due to conflict in the Middle East, which has impacted availability and delivery times.

Under the updated system, imported fertiliser will undergo improved offshore certification processes, ensuring goods are free from biosecurity risk material before arriving in Australia. Importers using higher-risk pathways will also be required to provide samples for inspection, while registration and compliance processes will be simplified.

Despite the streamlined approach, strict safeguards remain in place, including the requirement that all imported inorganic fertiliser be free from contaminants.

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The announcement builds on a range of existing measures designed to support the agriculture sector, including the establishment of a Fertiliser Supply Working Group, collaboration with alternative suppliers, and legislative changes to support private sector purchasing.

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Julie Collins said the changes strike a balance between efficiency and safety.

“We understand how important fertiliser is for Australian farmers and our food production system,” she said.

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“That’s why the Government is working day and night with industry to support fertiliser getting to Australian farmers. We have engaged closely with industry to establish these changes, and appreciate Fertilizer Australia’s commitment to practical collaboration and problem solving.

“The Government will never compromise on biosecurity, but this is a sensible way to streamline the robust systems in place to help get the fertiliser we need faster.”

Fertilizer Australia Chief Executive Officer Stephen Annells welcomed the announcement, highlighting the importance of collaboration between industry and government.

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“Fertilizer Australia is committed to working alongside the government, ensuring that our collaborative efforts lead to sound biosecurity systems and timely access to fertiliser for Australian farmers,” he said.

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“This partnership not only emphasises the importance of practical solutions but also reinforces our shared dedication to maintaining rigorous biosecurity standards, protecting Australia's farming ecosystems and export markets.”

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The Ingham Lions Club members at Bunnings. Photo supplied

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On Saturday, 18 April, the Ingham Lions Club headed to the North Shore Bunnings in Townsville to raise funds towards the fight against children’s cancer.

In true Bunnings style, the BBQ was sizzling and the snags were flying off the grill. That day they raised around $1500 for children fighting one of the hardest battles.

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Pat Lynch of the Ingham Lions Club said, “Supporting this charity is a big part of the Lions Club, we dedicated this day to this particular project at Bunnings and our club voted to channel those raised funds to childhood cancer. Just a small contribution through a sausage ... it was a day we all enjoyed.”

Pat also said it was a fundraising effort they put on monthly at the Bunnings so if you would like to make a donation to support the fight against children's caner, as every child deserves the chance at a healthy life, you can do so at their next Bunning BBQ or on the Lions Club Childhood Cancer website: alccrf.lions.org.au or scan the QR code.

Cassowary Coast Mayor Teresa Millwood cut the official ribbon, opening Mission Beach’s revitalised town centre. Pictured with Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa, Senator for Queensland Nita Green, and Cassowary Coast Councillor Trudy Tschui. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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Mission Beach has celebrated the official opening of its revitalised town centre.

Over the past 18 months, the Mission Beach Town Centre Revitalisation Project has delivered important upgrades including improved amenities, lighting, pedestrian access, shaded areas, and stormwater infrastructure, as well as unique artworks and new street furniture. All helping to create a safer, more welcoming town centre for the community and visitors.  

Over the weekend of the 17-19 of April the town came alive to celebrate the reopening and revitalisation project with a ribbon cutting ceremony and two days of free community activities and celebrations.  

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Mission Beach Town Centre Revitalised

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The project supports the long-term future of the area by encouraging tourism, supporting local businesses, and creating a more vibrant community space.

The $21.5 million revitalisation project is funded by $7.92 million from the Australian Government’s Growing Regions Program, $3.52 million from the Queensland Government’s Local Government Grants and Subsidies 2022-24 Program and $9.7 million from the Cassowary Coast Regional Council.

The revitalised space was officially opened on Friday 17 April, with locals and visitors coming to ‘Meet us in Mission’ on Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 April for community celebrations.

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Saturday was a hub of activities for people of all ages encouraging trade with local businesses and enjoying the vast features the revitalised space had to offer.

Federal Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, Kristy McBain MP said,

"The completion of the Mission Beach Town Centre revitalisation is a fantastic example of what can be achieved when three levels of government work together to deliver for regional Australia.”

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Queensland Minister for Local Government, Water and Volunteers, Ann Leahy agreed,

“We’re proud to have partnered with the Cassowary Coast Regional Council to deliver funding that brings real, lasting benefits to the people of Mission Beach and the many visitors who come to experience this incredible destination.”  

Member for Hinchinbrook, Wayde Chiesa said that,

“Mission Beach is one of North Queensland’s most iconic destinations, and these upgrades ensure it continues to be a place people are proud to live in and visit.

“By working closely with council, we’re ensuring communities like Mission Beach have the infrastructure they need to grow, attract visitors, and thrive well into the future.”

Mayor of Cassowary Coast, Cr Teresa Millwood added,  

“The revitalisation project represents the first major investment in the town centre since the 1970s, and it has created a more welcoming and functional space for the community.

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“The works weren’t easy, and I thank the community for sticking with us,” she said, “Your resilience, patience, and the way you’ve worked with us through all the ups and downs has been fantastic.

Managing Director of RMS Engineering and Construction Pty Ltd, Richard McDonald was heavily involved with the project;  

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“The project had its fair share of challenges, but it was great to work through them with local suppliers and contractors and to see such a strong result at the end,” he said. “The confined space of the work area, the continued groundwater intrusion, nature’s wet weather events, and the endless maze of underground services resulted in one of the most challenging and intricate projects RMS have ever been involved in.

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“The completed beatification project speaks for itself, and full credit to everyone involved.”

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The students from Abergowrie College after finishing their challenge at Palm Creek Parkrun. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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Run Army is a national fitness initiative that brings communities together to recognise and honour Australia’s veterans and serving Defence personnel, while encouraging participation through a structured course designed to promote resilience and teamwork.

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In Hinchinbrook, participation was well represented across two groups on the Palm Creek parkrun course. Hinchinbrook Shire Councillor Donna Marbelli ran alongside a trio of determined locals. Also taking part in the challenge, a group of students from Abergowrie College visited Palm Creek Parkrun one morning to show their support of the Run Army initiative.  

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Both groups demonstrated their support for the challenge, cheering each other on, reflecting respect for the armed forces and fitness through their individual efforts.

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Queensland fishers are being encouraged to record their catches through the Qld Fishing 2.0 app, helping build a clearer picture of fish stocks and support sustainable fishing for future generations.

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Queensland fishers are being encouraged to log their catches, with every recorded trip helping to build a clearer picture of the state’s fisheries and secure the future of recreational fishing.

Fishers record their trips for a range of personal reasons, for some, it’s about protecting local waters, while others want to see decisions backed by stronger data. Even just tracking their own fishing history helps provide feedback to improve the Qld Fishing 2.0 app.

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Whatever the motivation, each entry contributes to a broader understanding of fishing activity across Queensland.

For many, the decision to record catches begins with concern for the future.

“I started recording my catch because I was concerned about the future of fishing quality in our local area,” one Queensland fisher explained.

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Catch reporting plays a practical role in supporting sustainable fish stocks, protecting waterways and ensuring future generations can enjoy the same fishing experiences.

Accurate data is also key to informed decision-making. By submitting trip details, fishers help Fisheries Queensland track species trends, monitor fishing pressure and identify changes over time.

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"When everyone submits their data from across Queensland, it gives us a clearer picture of fish quality, what species are being caught, and what we can do to preserve these fish for many years to come,” another fisher said.

The information collected through the Qld Fishing 2.0 app is combined with commercial, charter and scientific data to guide fisheries management decisions, including size limits and seasonal closures.

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Recent figures highlight the growing impact of the initiative. In January 2026, 100 fishers recorded 159 trips, logging more than 1,600 fish. February continued the momentum, with 64 fishers submitting 122 trips and recording 825 fish.

Importantly, even unsuccessful trips provide valuable insights, helping to create a realistic picture of fishing activity across the state.

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As participation grows, so too does the ability to protect Queensland’s fisheries, ensuring that every catch, or even no catch at all, contributes to a lasting legacy.

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The return trip, with the rescued vessel under tow. Photo supplied

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Last Sunday morning a couple with 3 children took their Shark Cat runabout over to Pelorus Island for a swim and snorkel, but then discovered that their steering mechanism had failed, and they could not steer the boat. Lucinda Coast Guard received the call for help at 8:15am, and the Commander rang around to find a crew.

The rescue vessel “JJ” was soon launched, and headed over to Pelorus, a trip of around 30 minutes on a good day and soon had a tow line attached.

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The return trip to Dungeness was a very slow one, as without steering the towed vessel swung all over the place, but the professional volunteer crew knew what to do, and everyone was safely delivered back to the boat ramp, having just scraped over the sandbar on a dropping tide.

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Please stay safe on the water, especially if your vessel has been unused for a period of time. Check its systems and fuel thoroughly before going out onto the water.

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(Article contributed with thanks and written by Steve Whipps, Commander, Qf14 Lucinda Coast Guard)

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Applications to become a Collaboration Partner during Queensland Small Business Month remain open until 30 April. Photo source: Queensland Government  

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Small businesses across the Hinchinbrook and Cassowary Coast shires are being encouraged to take advantage of new opportunities as registrations open for the 2026 Queensland Small Business Month expos.

While the flagship events will be held in Cairns, the Gold Coast and Brisbane this May, local operators can still benefit through online resources, webinars and a range of initiatives designed to support regional and remote businesses.

The expos aim to help small and family businesses build resilience, embrace innovation and tap into emerging opportunities, including those linked to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Minister for Small and Family Business Steve Minnikin said the events would provide practical tools and support.

“Queensland Small Business Month 2026 is about helping small businesses build resilience, embrace innovation and seize opportunities,” Minister Minnikin said.

“The expos will bring together industry leaders, government representatives, and business experts to deliver engaging sessions that address the real challenges and opportunities facing small businesses today.

“Attendees will also be able to access one-on-one support, including mentoring, financial counselling, and cyber security advice, ensuring they leave with actionable strategies to strengthen their small businesses.”

Hinchinbrook Shire Council Mayor Ramon Jayo said initiatives like Queensland Small Business Month can make a difference for regional communities when backed by meaningful, ongoing support.

“Yes, they can make a difference—particularly when they are well targeted and supported at the local level,” he said.

“Queensland Small Business Month provides a valuable opportunity to celebrate small businesses, raise awareness of available support, and encourage collaboration and learning. For regional communities like Hinchinbrook, the real value comes when these initiatives are paired with practical support, local engagement, and follow-up that extends beyond a single month.”

Cassowary Coast Regional Council Mayor Teresa Millwood said small businesses play a vital role in the region, highlighting Council’s Growing Stronger Together 2033 strategy as a key driver of economic resilience and local growth.

“Small businesses are absolutely at the heart of the Cassowary Coast,” she said.

“They’re not just creating jobs - they’re creating opportunity, supporting families, and keeping our towns strong and connected. Our Growing Stronger Together 2033 strategy is built around exactly that, backing local business, attracting investment, and building a more resilient economy for the future. Because when our small businesses succeed, our whole community benefits.”

Mayor Millwood said initiatives like Queensland Small Business Month are particularly valuable for regional communities.

“For regional communities like ours, visibility and connection are everything. Initiatives like Queensland Small Business Month give small businesses the chance to build networks, access support, and be recognised for the role they play in our economy,” she said.

“They also complement the work we’re doing locally, supporting businesses at every stage, whether they’re starting out or looking to grow. It’s about making sure regional voices are part of the bigger picture.”

To get involved, register for an event, become a Collaboration Partner, or find out more about what’s on this Queensland Small Business Month, head to www.business.qld.gov.au/running-business/support-services/business-events/qsbm.

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Steve Chapman receives a certificate in recognition of ten years with Inside Out Prison Chaplaincy, presented by Kevin Griffiths (Carinity CEO) and Dan Lyons (Carinity Director of Missional Culture and Leadership). Photo supplied

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It takes a special type of person to enter a prison – by choice – to support convicted criminals.

Steve Chapman is a dedicated volunteer chaplain with Inside Out Prison Chaplaincy, which has had a presence inside Queensland correctional centres for more than 50 years.

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The Innisfail resident is so driven to support men facing dark times in prison that he makes a four-hour round trip each week to do so.

Within two years months of release, around half of all prisoners will be back behind bars. Inside Out Prison Chaplaincy aims to break this cycle through supporting men and women in prison to change their lives.

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Steve and his brother Andrew are part of Inside Out's team of more than 40 volunteer pastoral carers who visit people inside prisons from Far North Queensland to the Gold Coast.

Steve has been a prison chaplain for a decade but admits the thought of going into a prison once “put a shiver up my spine”.

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“My first recollection of going into the correctional centre was intense security of cameras and large iron gates,” he recalls.

“After some prayerful consideration I felt the Lord saying that, ‘Sometimes you may have to go outside your comfort zone to do my Will.’

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“I find it a privilege to be in a place where these guys can have a ‘safe place’ to unload, then to look and be ready to share the hope in Jesus Christ.

“The most gratifying moments are when you see the change in the countenance of those who find hope and peace in their hearts.”

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Inside Out Prison Chaplaincy is a ministry of Carinity, a Queensland non-profit which also operates aged care, disability support, special assistance schools, accommodation for homeless youth, and family counselling services.

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From the Cardwell RSL Sub Branch and the Tully RSL Sub Branch

D. Ryan

W. Sorensen

J. Firman

J. Wilson

R. Hall

J. Cochrane

G. Todd

A. Sellars

C. DeLuca

A. Pont

J. Achilles

B. Ash

R. Black

R. Curry

J. Harman

M. Murillo

D. Hurst

E. Bryde

J. McCool

S. Perger

D. Pollock

W. Schafer

D.H. Tolcher

R. Fittoch

J.A. Henry M.M.

C. Stevens

T.G. Gourley

E. Kratzman

L.W. Pease

H. Asplin

C. Densley

J.T. Webster

H.S. Blythman

J.H. Pylant

E. Gourley

A. McBeath

C.R. Gay

C. Toombs

J. Pilkington

B. Scarpignato

S. DiBella

V. Ronco

G. Asplin

S.J. Maconarchie

R.G. Tyres

A.E. Reidel

R. Stephenson

A.J. Weetman

J. Flegler

M. Maingay

W.G. Burger

E.R. Chivers

J.A. Henderson

A.W. Keane

G.V. Reed

W.E.H. James

T. Chapman

H.G. Millwood

W. Livingstone Mrs.

F. McManus

M. Bagaste

D. Digman

D.F. Gimbert

A.M. Wilsoet

J.E. Webster

H.G. Hartill

T. Dawita

A. Rawnsley

C. Walker

L.J. Milne

J. Peut

G. McKenzie

R. McLeay

J. Storey Mrs.

A. Noberg

R.J. Simmonds

E.M. Mitchell

R.A. Noble

C.E. Webster

P.J. Lepinath

V.M. Guy

E.B. McNamara

P.G. Rayner

T. Warren

P.N. Wilson

J. Paniuel

G. O'Neill

P. Andersen

R. Aghew

R. Birt

A.G. Bell

A.R. Bell

J. Brennan

C. Ball

M. Cusack

J. Colleton

L. Dowzer

H. Diggers

D. Geddes

E.C. Foster

G. Hitchcock

G. Senko

G. Adams

J.M. Hyatt

G.E. Hudson

G.H. Hielscher

D.G. Hielscher

J. Harwood

S. Harden

J. Higgins

W. Ivchouk

L.G. Jones

J.A.D. Jenkins

R. Klezel

W. Kirk

R.C. Langley

A.A. Lewis

A.K. Morris

E. Moroney

A. Mills

G. Millwood

V. Morris

A. Milne

T. Papworth

J. McCook

D.L. McDonald

D. McMichael

G. Pratt

E. Purcell

A. Partridge

T.K. Riley

A. Ross

J. Taggart

W. Uzinger

G. Uzinger

J. Vaughan

A.S. Woods

T. Wong

J. Mitchell

R.B. Rodger

J. Watson

A. Wildsoet

D. Hunt

J.A. Harman

F. Andrews

L.W. Bell

N. Drew

J.M.M. Mullins

W.M. Mullins

M.J. Miller

C.T. Mitchell

R. Murnane

R. McCall

G. Gregory

G.K. Tolcher

P.J. Digman

L.A. Butler

R. Livingstone

G.H. Slater

P. Stibb

G.N. Bathe

S.E. Peel

J.R. Tolcher

M.T. Moloney

J. Dew

J.M. Wright

W.P. Dyer

J.W. Jones

W. Andersen

R. Culverhouse

G.J. Boyd

S.J. Stone

G.J. Curran

W.J. Ryan

D.J. Gourley

C.H. Lindsey

M.A. Murillo

R.C. Jensen

S. Hardwick

J. Evans

J. Wilsoet

M. Macmara

V. Moessinger

G.S. James

W.J. Dougham

R. Uhr

S. Leak

J.W. Cairns

L.T. Bunting

G.C. Iggulden

G.R. Clark

D.E. Moulsdale

N.N. Reiman

K. Carroll

R.L. McCue

R.J. Pease

A.L. Jacka

E.C. Kelly

H. McGrath

A.C. Hemsworth

W.H. Neibling

S. Coxon

K. Flower

H. Rothwell

P. Rushworth

E.J.P. Clayfield

J. Murillo

W.J. Stuart

J. Donkin

C.N. Chew

M.R. Self

D.J. Keegan

World War I

H.R. Black

F.J. Blackman

H. Brannigan

E.P. Brosnan

H.R. Butler

A. Bryant

E.W. Cook

H.C. Curtis

C.H.H. Graham

R.M. Graham

B. Henry

E. Henry

J.W. Houston

F.N. King

J. Mars

F.H. Murray

G.J. Murray

E. McQuillen

J. McQuillen

J.H. Plumb

H.H. Richardson

W.E. Still

N.E. Trower

G.C. Watkins

W.C. Watkins

G.H. Webb

I.M.M. Chandler

H. Reiman

J.O. McQuaid

G.A. Ferguson

Q. Petersen

E. Newton

E. Robinson

J.A.M. Porter

P.C. Benn

H. Jones

A. McFarlane

A. Andersen

T.W.C. Briggs

J. Bamber

J. Beattie

G. Caldersmith

A.G. Clark-Kennedy

K.G. Clark-Kennedy

F.W. Cook

F.W. Drockman

M.C. Hyatt

R. Hort

W.H. Hudson

J.W. Houstan

W. Leece

A.G. Mann

F.G. Mathews

A. McDonald

T. Parmeter

W. Pollard

A. Richardson

K.V.D. Stuart-Campbell

J. Stern

World War II

K.C. Donald

T.G. Jamieson

S.K. Nicolls

P. Panos

H.G. Schmidt

LEST WE FORGET

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Logilytics is here for local businesses and families to get their internet up to speed. Photo credit: Logilytics

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With our new partnership with Aussie Broadband, Logilytics is proud to announce we can now supply local NBN services right here in the Hinchinbrook region, including high-speed fibre connections where available.  

That means faster speeds, better reliability, and local support from a team that’s already on the ground and invested in our community.

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For local businesses, fast internet isn’t a luxury anymore, it’s the backbone of every function. Everything from taking payments, running cloud apps, to backing up data, and staying connected to customers. For families, it’s what makes streaming smooth, gaming responsive, and working or studying from home actually workable.

The best part? You don’t have to deal with call centres or generic “one-size-fits-all” advice. At Logitlytics our friendly local team will help you choose the right plan for your home or business, organise the changeover, and make sure your WiFi and network are set up to get the performance you’re paying for.

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Fast internet. Fast support. Local people.

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If you’re in Hinchinbrook and you’re ready for NBN done properly, talk to Logilytics today. Call 1800 832 477 or visit our website at logilytics.com.au to view our services and support options.

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A desire for a fresh start has driven Jake Bebendorf to take the reins at Ingham’s JB Mechanical & Suspension, stepping into ownership after seizing the perfect opportunity to grow within the mechanical industry.

Jake said stepping into ownership of JB Mechanical & Suspension has brought a strong sense of achievement, adding he is committed to running the business with integrity and a focus on honest, reliable workmanship.

Since taking over, Jake has steered JB Mechanical & Suspension toward a stronger focus on suspension services, particularly four-wheel drive setups, while also building close partnerships with local businesses and tradespeople to deliver high-quality, well-rounded service to clients.

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With a full schedule of both longstanding and new clients keeping Jake, administrator Sylvia and apprentice Malachi busy and accountable, Jake is confident his workmanship and approach to running the business will speak for themselves in building strong, trusted relationships.

“We’re trying to restore good, honest, reliable work to the business and make that distinction between then [previous ownership] and now [current ownership],” said Jake.

“We’re new owners, but we’re old faces and in the business itself, there are still the good old bones underneath of family values, business values, and staff values.”

With 12 months already under their belt since taking over the business, Jake has plans to grow and a strong focus on creating opportunities to welcome and train new apprentices.

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“In the business, there were a lot of things that weren’t working, and it [purchasing the business] was a very quick decision,” Jake added.  

“Since then, we’ve put more love, and a whole lot of liability into how we operate.”

Jake and the team at JB Mechanical & Suspension are welcoming the community to visit them at 4–6 Gedge Street, Ingham, or get in touch on 07 4776 3173.

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Donzel began his Tec-NQ House journey in Semester 2, 2025, bringing fresh energy to the boarding community. As a year 10 student, preparing for year 11 in 2026, he already had his future mapped out: a career in the automotive industry.

“I chose Tec-NQ for the opportunities after school,” said Donzel.

“I heard about this school from family members,” he added.

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It’s the strength of Tec-NQ’s vocational pathway options that attracted him, and he was keen to take every chance to learn. “So far, it’s been good,” he adds with a smile.

Head of Boarding, Dominic Stower, says Donzel’s attitude is a great fit for Tec-NQ House.

“When new students arrive with a clear goal, it sets them up to make the most of the opportunities here,” Dominic said. “Donzel has come in focused on automotive, and we’re already seeing his commitment.”

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Life outside of the classroom keeps Donzel busy. At home on Warraber Island in the Torres Strait, he spends spare time fishing with family and friends. In Townsville, he’s quick to make use of the boarding house facilities, enjoying games of pool and keeping up with basketball. A loyal Chicago Bulls supporter, his favourite number is 23, a tribute to Michael Jordan. On the rugby league field, he follows the Roosters.

For Dominic, this balance of vocational focus, sport and recreation is exactly what Tec-NQ House was designed to provide.  

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“Boarding gives young people independence with a safety net,” he explained. “We set expectations around learning, wellbeing and behaviour, and then we support them with structure and routine. That’s where they thrive.”

Tec-NQ House itself is a purpose-built boys-only residence located in Rosslea. Opened in 2022, it provides accommodation for up to forty senior school students from regional and remote Queensland, giving them access to Tec-NQ’s trade-focused senior school program.

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The facility blends structure with comfort. Students have air-conditioned double-occupancy rooms, communal lounges with streaming services and computer access, and a secure outdoor recreation area with BBQ facilities and a basketball court. An on-site professional chef prepares nutritious meals every day, fuelling the boys for school, sport and work placements.

Transport is provided to the Tec-NQ Douglas co-educational campus, and staff also drive students to and from workplaces when required. This removes barriers and lets students focus on their learning, hobbies and friendships. After-hours, the boys enjoy organised sport, social activities and excursions, all designed to build a sense of community.

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Dominic says that for students like Donzel, these routines help them settle quickly.  

“First-year boarders do well when there is a clear rhythm to the week,” he said. “They learn to manage their time, connect with mates and build confidence. Those skills will serve them in school, in apprenticeships and in life.”

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With his career pathway in mind, his hobbies from home, and a willingness to get involved in boarding life, Donzel is making a strong start. We look forward to seeing his journey continue into year 11 and 12.

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Queensland cattle farmers can now apply for help to rebuild their herds. Photo sourced: Pexel

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Embryo transfer procedures to reinstate genetically valuable breeding stock are now eligible for reimbursement under Primary Producer Recovery Grants.

The grants are being delivered under the joint Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) to support primary producers who have been impacted by the devastating Queensland Monsoon Trough, Cyclone Koji and Severe Weather which commenced in December 2025.

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The eligibility for embryo transfer procedures has been retrospectively applied to disaster events including and after North and Far North Tropical Low 29th Jan – 28th Feb 2025 where Primary Producer Recovery Grants have been announced.

The loss of genetically valuable breeding livestock and future breeders has severely affected the ability of producers to resume breeding operations to pre-disaster levels and reduced genetic improvement in key seedstock operations.

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Including embryo transfers as an eligible activity under the grants aims to support primary producers, particularly those operating stud cattle enterprises, who have been significantly impacted by recent natural disasters.

Federal Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Julie Collins said this support would assist impacted primary producers in Queensland to rebuild their stock levels faster.

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“Queensland is home to some of Australia’s best beef products, but we know severe weather events have affected herd numbers, and this support gives farmers greater choice in how they rebuild,” Minister Collins said.

“Having visited flood-impacted farmers in Queensland, I know how important it is to work with them to support their recovery – and we will have their back at every stage of recovery.”

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Queensland Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett said the decision reflects the Government’s commitment to supporting Queensland’s primary producers through expanded access to disaster assistance.  

“By including embryo transfer as an eligible cost under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, we are ensuring that stud cattle enterprises and other affected producers can rebuild their herds and return to full production as quickly as possible,” Minister Perrett said.

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“More importantly, the inclusion of embryo transfer-related costs sends a strong signal to industry that both levels of government are supportive of graziers integrating embryo technology into their mitigation and resilience planning.”  

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The following embryo transfer-related costs are now eligible for reimbursement under the grants for primary producers directly impacted by an eligible disaster event:

- Synchronisation drugs for recipient cows

- Veterinary procedure fees for implantation

- Labour and technician costs associated with embryo transfer

- Travel costs required to access remote properties

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Primary producers can claim costs for using their own stored embryos that were cryopreserved prior to the disaster event or for donated embryos from industry partners, with only the implantation costs being claimable.  

Disaster Recovery Grants of up to $75,000 are now open for applications through the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA) website. Financial support is jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments under the DRFA.  

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You can find out to access support here: www.business.qld.gov.au/industries/farms-fishing-forestry/agriculture/disaster/funding/industry-recovery-resilience-officers

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Donated to the 31st Battalion Band in 1915 by Queensland pastoralist Alfred John Cotton, the World War I cornet accompanied Australian soldiers during their service on the Western Front. The 31st Battalion, known as the Kennedy Regiment, drew many of its volunteers from North Queensland’s Kennedy District and formed part of the Australian Imperial Force.

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These men served with distinction in Europe, forging enduring links between regional Queensland communities and the battlefields of France and Belgium. The battalion suffered devastating losses at the Battle of Fromelles in July 1916 and later took part in key operations during the Allied advance of 1918, including fighting associated with the Villers‑Bretonneux area.

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Lost during the war, the cornet was later recovered and carefully restored. Today, it is preserved at the Hinchinbrook Shire Library as part of its Special Collections, where it sits as a tangible link to the service and sacrifice of the men of the Kennedy Regiment.

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The instrument holds deep symbolic value. During the war, musicians who played such instruments often served dual roles, acting not only in ceremonial capacities but also as stretcher bearers, carrying wounded soldiers from the battlefield under fire.

In a modern tribute, Australian Army musician Jeff Poole was granted special permission to play the restored cornet at Fromelles, sounding the Last Post during reburial ceremonies for Australian soldiers who had lain unidentified for more than a century. The cornet was loaned for the occasion by a member of the 31st Battalion Association who recognised its historical importance.

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Its use extended beyond Fromelles to ceremonies at the Menin Gate in Belgium, honouring thousands of soldiers who have no known grave.

More than a relic, the cornet represents continuity, remembrance and respect, connecting present‑day Australians with the legacy of the Kennedy Regiment and the sacrifice of those who served and died more than a century ago. For more information on ANZAC Day commemoration services across the region, visit Council’s website or follow Council’s Facebook page for details.

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On another note, fuel has been a regular topic around our dinner tables and workplaces for weeks now, and I know many locals are feeling concerned about availability and rising costs.  

For us, fuel isn’t a luxury, it’s essential to everyday life, whether you’re getting to work, running a business, taking kids to school or travelling long distances for services.

While Australia has fuel security measures in place, regional and remote communities like ours can still feel the impact of international instability through transport delays, increased demand and temporary supply pressures.

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Council has made fuel availability information easier to access through the Hinchinbrook Disaster Dashboard.  

The information is sourced directly from the Queensland Government and provides near real‑time updates from participating fuel retailers. It’s designed to help you plan, avoid unnecessary trips between service stations and reduce panic buying. A little consideration goes a long way. Using fuel responsibly helps ensure there’s enough for emergency services, essential workers and those in our community who rely on it most.

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You can find the Dashboard, along with weather warnings and safety information by following the Hinchinbrook Disaster Information Facebook page or the Disaster Dashboard website.

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Over the years, I’ve heard many people say they want to recycle better, but they’re not always sure if they’re doing it right. That’s exactly why Hinchinbrook Shire Council is again rolling out the Bin Tagging Education Program across the Shire.

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This program is about helping households recycle correctly and keeping recyclable material out of landfill. On collection days, Council officers carry out simple visual checks of yellow lidded recycling bins and leave a coloured tag to show how that bin is tracking. A green tag means you’re doing a great job, orange shows there is a little contamination with tips to improve, and red highlights heavy contamination.

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I want to be very clear. This is an education-first approach. We know most residents want to do the right thing, and bin tagging provides practical, easy-to-understand feedback so small changes can be made without guesswork or frustration.

Each year, our community sends around 4,000 tonnes of kerbside waste to landfill. If we can divert just ten per cent of recyclable material out of red bins and into yellow bins, that is around 400 tonnes less waste going to landfill. That helps extend the life of our landfill, reduces environmental impacts, and keeps long term costs down for everyone.

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If a recycling bin is heavily contaminated, it may be emptied into general waste to protect the rest of the load. Households that continue to have issues will receive additional education and support, and only ongoing non-compliance may lead to further action.

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Recycling is not always straightforward, especially when packaging is unclear. Tools like Recycle Mate can help residents check what goes where.

This program is one more way Council is working alongside the community to improve recycling habits. Small changes really can make a big difference.

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For more information, follow Council’s Facebook page, check Council’s website or better yet, call (07) 4776 4600.

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