Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
By Victoria Velton Seventy-five years of history and service were commemorated in Ingham last Saturday, as the 103 Squadron of the Australian Air Force Cadets celebrated its three-quarter-century anniversary with a special dinner at the Herbert River RSL, bringing together generations of cadets and supporters. The 75th Anniversary Dinner was a significant occasion for the squadron, welcoming current cadets and their families alongside former cadets, past members and special guests who travelled to Ingham to mark the occasion. Among the guests were visiting representatives from the Australian Army and Royal Australian Navy, adding to the significance of the celebration and highlighting the strong connections the Australian Air Force Cadets share with the wider Australian Defence Force. For the current generation of cadets, the evening provided an opportunity to meet people who have served in uniform and hear from those who have been part of the squadron and its history over the decades. Just as importantly, former cadets returned to support the young people who are now following in their footsteps. Instructors, volunteers, parents and supporters were all recognised. Event organiser Simone Lennox said the celebration was the culmination of several weeks of planning, organising, printing and chasing up the many details needed to bring such a significant event together. “There were plenty of late nights, last-minute changes and stressful moments, but we did it,” Simone said. For a youth organisation with such a long history in the community, the presence of ex-cadets was particularly meaningful, demonstrating the endurance of friendships, experiences and lessons gained through the program. The evening also featured displays and memorabilia reflecting the squadron’s history, helping to bring together stories from its past with the work being carried out by its current members. Special commemorative pieces were also created for the occasion, with current Cadet Unit Officer Saxon Crabb and former CUO/LAC Corey Crabb working together to create 75th Anniversary 3D-printed pieces giving guests a unique reminder of the milestone. Simone thanked Erin and Sandra for their work in helping organise the celebration, as well as the Herbert River Sub Branch RSL for hosting the event. Bec from Budget Colour Copies was also recognised for her help with the extensive printing, scanning and last-minute jobs required in the lead-up to the dinner. “Seeing everyone there, catching up, sharing stories and enjoying the night made all the work worthwhile,” Simone said. After 75 years, the anniversary was a celebration of the people who have been part of 103 Squadron, the memories created along the way and the young cadets who are now carrying that tradition into the future. Caption: Photo credits: Victoria Velton Generations of 103 Squadron members, ex-103 cadets and visiting officials and representatives gathered at the Herbert River RSL for the 75th celebration. The current Ingham 103 Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets. Current 103 Squadron leaders, ex-103 cadets, alongside visiting officials and representatives from the broader Australian Defence Force. The current members and leaders of the Ingham 103 Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets. All attendees enjoying their time at the 75th celebration. Extras to put online: Extra 1. The current Ingham 103 Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets and family table. Extra 2. The Ex-Ingham 103 Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets and family table. Extra 3. The visiting dignitaries and officials table.
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Ingham’s own Mick’s Bread Kitchen has cooked up a spectacular result on the national stage, taking home two gold medals at the 2026 Official Great Aussie Pie Competition. The bakery’s Smoked Brisket Pie and Pork Pie both claimed gold, with the brisket creation developed by Mick’s daughter, Monique Toichev. The bakery entered four pies in the prestigious competition, with its Ned Kelly Pie also taking silver and its Plain Pie earning bronze. The four-medal haul has given the local team plenty to celebrate, with Monique saying the recognition was the result of hard work and a commitment to perfecting every part of the pie.
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By Sian Bantock One of Mission Beach’s signature endurance events took place on Sunday 6th September as Cassowary Coast Multisport Club (CCMC)’s Ona Mission challenged competitors across three disciplines: paddling, running and cycling. The event drew competitors of all ages and abilities, each pushing themselves past their limits to complete the course. Participants tackled the event individually or in teams, beginning with a 4km paddle-over to the iconic Dunk Island, before a 6km trail run and 30km cycle, finishing with a 6km run along the region's tropical beaches. Calm seas made for great paddling conditions, though rising temperatures ensured the athletes were working hard under the tropical sun. CCMC Club President Richard Blanchette was overjoyed with the turnout. “Wow Mission Beach! Superb day for Ona Mission 2026 with participants paddling, riding and running along the beach,” he said.
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Locals are being encouraged to grab their rods and help tackle one of the region’s invasive pests when the annual Tilapia Tournament returns to Warrina Lakes during the October school holidays. Cassowary Coast Regional Council will host the free, family-friendly fishing competition from Thursday 1st October to Saturday 3rd October, combining a day out for the community with an important effort to protect local waterways and native aquatic life. The tournament challenges participants to catch and remove Tilapia, an invasive pest fish capable of rapidly establishing large populations and outcompeting native species. Tilapia feed on plants, insects and small native fish and can produce hundreds of young in a single season. Their nesting behaviour can also stir up mud and damage important habitat for native fish and other aquatic species. Fortunately for competitors, the pest fish are relatively easy to catch and will take a variety of bait, including corn, bread, worms and pellets. Cassowary Coast Mayor Teresa Millwood said every fish removed during the tournament would contribute to improving the health of the local ecosystem. “The Tilapia Tournament is a fantastic opportunity for locals and visitors to get involved in protecting our waterways while enjoying a free, family-friendly event during the school holidays,” Cr Millwood said. “Every Tilapia removed from Warrina Lakes helps reduce the pressure on our native species and improves the health of our local ecosystem. I encourage everyone to come along, register and be part of this important community effort.” The tournament is open to all ages, although children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. Participants are encouraged to bring their own fishing gear, hat, sunscreen, water bottle and camping chair, with prizes also up for grabs throughout the event. Entry is free, however registration is essential. Further information and registration details are available through the Cassowary Coast Regional Council website. CAPTION: The annual Tilapia Tournament will return to Warrina Lakes this October. Photo supplied by Cassowary Coast Regional Council
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Highly accessible AI tools can now generate sexually explicit content without a person’s knowledge or consent – a growing concern in Queensland schools – with harmful content being generated to cyber-bully.
To ensure Queensland laws keep pace with technology, the Government will criminalise the creation of intimate images of a person through digital technology without their consent, closing the loophole that has allowed perpetrators to evade accountability.
The proposed new offence will:
Attorney-General, Minister for Justice and Minister for Integrity Deb Frecklington said the reforms demonstrate the Government’s commitment to prioritising victims’ rights.
“This is for the women who have had their images weaponised against them, the teachers who have been the subject of heinous cyber-bullying, and for every victim who was told the law couldn’t help - because now we are changing that,” the Attorney-General said.
“For too long, offenders have been able to exploit a loophole in the law to create harmful and exploitative content without facing the full consequences. We are closing that loophole.
The Queensland Government will undertake targeted consultation with stakeholders across the education, legal, sexual violence and online safety sectors as part of developing the legislation.
31st Battalion, 1939, Anzac Day Parade, Ingham. Photo supplied
Long before their names appeared in service records and memorials, they were part of everyday life in regional Queensland.
They were young people with families, neighbours with futures, community members with hopes much like our own. Their willingness to sacrifice their world in service of others has left a lasting mark on the region and on the generations that followed.
As Anzac Day approaches, residents are encouraged to reflect on Hinchinbrook Shire Library’s extensive and significant record of the region’s military heritage, with a particular focus on the 31st Battalion, The Kennedy Regiment.
Mayor Ramon Jayo said Anzac Day offers an important opportunity to connect remembrance with learning and local history.
“Anzac Day reminds us that service and sacrifice are not abstract ideas, they are lived experiences of people from our own towns, streets and families,” Mayor Jayo said.
“Our Library plays a vital role in preserving these stories and ensuring they remain accessible to the community, researchers and future generations.”
The special collection was bequeathed to the Hinchinbrook Shire Library by Captain Bob Burla RFD, ED & Bars (RL), the voluntary historian for the 31st Battalion Infantry Association.
Since its establishment in 1999, it has become a major custodian of documentary material relating to the 31st Battalion, including service records, photographs, personal papers, publications and military ephemera.
Complementing this military collection, the Library’s Special Collections also encompass local histories, photographs, council records and newspapers.
Together, these materials help tell the broader story of life in the Hinchinbrook Shire during times of both peace and conflict.
Mayor Jayo said these collections ensure remembrance remains active, relevant and meaningful.
“Preserving history is not simply about looking back, it’s about ensuring future generations understand the service, resilience and contributions of those who came before them,” he said.
“Our library collections allow these stories to be shared with accuracy, respect and strong local context.”
Community members, veterans, families and students are encouraged to visit the Hinchinbrook Shire Library at 73–75 McIlwraith Street, Ingham, during normal hours: Monday–Wednesday and Friday 10:00am–4:00pm
Thursday 10:00am–6:00pm
Saturday 9:00am–12:00pm
The library will be closed on Anzac Day, with further information on commemoration services available at www.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au/2026-anzac-day-commemoration-services/
From the Herbert River RSL Sub Branch and the Rollingstone RSL Sub Branch
C.A. Marshall
World War I
L.B. Alm
J. Allan
F. Armstrong
R.E. Alston
H.H. Anderson
A.J.J. Barnes
F.J. Barnes
A.J. Boreham
J.E. Beatts
D.R.Mc Baxter
E. Bridger
P. Christie
A.R. Cummins
A. Cates
A. Filippi
W.E. Fulton
L. Ghensi
J. Hardy
H.E. Hembrow
H.E. Irwin
W.E. Kelley
R.M. Knowles
A.E. Kehl
E.P. Morris
S. Markham
W.J. Markey
W. Ninnis
P.W. Ross
G.R. Skinner
A.D. Scrutton
J. Smith
H. Smith
A. Taylor
H.A.S. Taylor
R. Thompson
J.H. Urquhart
G.F.M.M. Venables
A. White
W.B. Dwyer
World War II
R. Agnew
M.A. Bishop
A.B. Brown
A.M. Christie
E.M. Christie
P.R. Challands
B.C. Cabon
A. Cousens
W.R. Cornish
W.L. Cleary
P.J. Cumiskey
L. Desjardins
N.L. Diehm
J.M. Dixon
J.D. Dunstan
E. Doherty
G.H. Eddleston
M.J. Farrell
K. Fulton
E.A. Glover
D.L. Graham
H.F. Harvey
W.D. Hunter
J. Hopkins
R. Hopkins
R. Jessup
C.P. Lesina
K. Lynch
J.W. Langley
T. Markey
H.T. Mills
M. Nayler
N. Nicholson
M. O’Malley
P. Richardson
H.G. Schmidt
J. Simpson
J.W. Sinclair
H.H. Swarbrick
L.J.K. Teitzel
E.E.G. Taylor
J.K. Waring
C.Y. Watson
R.N. Wehrle
L. Wilkinson
R.E. Innes
R.H. Jones
B. Roberts
L. Polmear
Korean War
F.J. Origlassi
Malaysia
V.J. Cowen
LEST WE FORGET
All Ex-Servicemen and Women and members of the public are invited to attend the DAWN PARADE assembling at the Mafeking Tree, opposite the Police Station, Ingham at 4:15am Saturday 25 April 2026. At the conclusion of the service, all those attending are invited to the RSL Clubrooms for breakfast.
This ceremony, conducted by the Herbert River Sub-Branch of the RSL, will take place at the Ingham War Cemetery commencing at 6:00am.
Individuals, schools and local organisations are invited to participate in the Forrest Beach Progress Association Parade and Commemoration Ceremony. All marchers taking part in the parade are requested to assemble, under the direction of the Parade Marshall, Mr Richard Scobie, in Corbett Park near the Forrest Beach SLSC, at 6:50am. The parade will move at 7:00am, march along Palm Street to the Memorial Site in Progress Park where a wreath laying ceremony will take place. Light refreshments will be provided after the ceremony.
Schools and local organisations are invited to participate in the Halifax Parade and Commemoration Ceremony. All marchers taking part in the parade are requested to assemble at 8:00am at the Halifax State School in Victoria Terrace, under the direction of the Parade Marshall, Mr Gordon Schmierer. The parade will move at 8:05am, march along the main street of Halifax to Lion’s clock and return to the War Memorial where a wreath laying ceremony will take place.
Schools and local organisations are invited to participate in the Anzac Day Parade and are requested to assemble, under the direction of the Parade Marshall, Captain Felix Reitano Retd., in Rotary Park adjacent old Barra Motors building, at 9:20am to march on the northern lane of Herbert Street into Palm Terrace to the Cenotaph where the commemoration ceremony will follow, wreaths will be placed on the Cenotaph and the Last Post and Reveille sounded. The parade will then be dismissed at the completion of the service.
FLAGS: Business people in the Shire are encouraged to display flags which are to be flown at half-mast from 8:00am until noon and at the masthead for the remainder of the day.
WREATHS: The Committee respectfully suggests that persons considering the laying of Wreaths give consideration to the substitution of an Inscribed Book either instead of, or as well as, a Wreath. These books will then be presented to local Schools for inclusion in their Libraries as a lasting memento of the Ceremony.
ORDER OF MARCH: Air Force Cadets; Returned and Service Persons; National Servicemen’s Association – Ingham Branch; Drummers; Scouts; Our Lady of Lourdes Primary School; Ingham State Primary School; Country Schools; Ingham State High School; St Teresa’s College; Gilroy Santa Maria College.
Championship 4’s Winners: L Melvin, E Piotto, L DiBella & G Wright. Photo supplied
Semi Finals Championship Fours results:
G. Wright, L. DiBella, E. Piotto, L. Melvin 24 vs A. Burns, J. Bell, N. Mammerella, M. Owen 18.
M. Spano, J. Casanovas, J. Feneoglio, N. Evans 22 vs I. Byrne, K. Rotondo, J. Craven, S. Ryan 17.
Final winners were G. Wright, L. DiBella, E. Piotto, L. Melvin.
Our Allamanda Fours was well attended with 14 teams playing in good bowling conditions. Overall winners for the day was a team skippered by Rhonda Tawse from Townsville. Townsville skips L. Poole and L. Riches took out 2nd and 3rd place with a local team coming 4th.
Our thanks go out to our sponsors, Hinchinbrook Shire Council, The Carey Group and Wilmar for making our day possible. Wednesday was back to club bowls with 1 competition being played. B Grade Singles saw D. Tomba defeat T. Mawson 25/12.
Social play results:
B. Eddleston, M. Owens, E. Piotto 22 vs M. Spano, N.Evans, J. Fenoglio 14.
A. Burns, J. Casanovas, J. Craven 19 vs N. Mammerella M. Moore, L. DiBella 13.
Results of Play Wednesday 8 April - Championship Singles:
Jan Craven def. Judy Fenoglio 26/19.
Norma Evans Def. Sandy Ryan 26/15.
Social play results:
R. Horton, M. Spano, L. DiBella, A. Rutherford 15 v N. Mammerella, M. Moore, T. Rhodes 14.
D. Toomba, B. Eddleston, E. Piotto 25 v T. Mawson, K. Rotondo, J. Casanovas 13.
(Contributed with thanks by Sandy Ryan & John and Elsa Piotto)
Macie (Left) competing in the under 12 girls. Miles (Right)competing in the under 12 boys. Photo supplied
Recently, Ingham Tennis Association had some of their juniors go to the Kalynda Chase Open Tennis Tournament, this tournament put their players in the same age grouping as players who came from Cairns and surrounding areas.
The opens are for experienced players and award money is offered in the adult sections. This time, the Ingham juniors didn't get any placings but came away a lot better for the experience and made new friends enjoying the whole weekend.
They have the Ingham Junior Development Series tournament coming up soon which gives kids of all abilities the chance to compete and have some fun against kids of the same ability.
Ingham Tennis has paused for the school holidays as a break but will be in full swing in the first week back from the easter break.
(Contributed with thanks by Geoff Caso)
Banyan Creek Bridge along the Bruce Highway. Photo source: Google Maps
Confusion surrounding multiple Banyan Creek road signs in the Cassowary Coast has been raised as a concern, with questions emerging around clarity for road users.
The issue was recently flagged by longtime resident and local Councillor, Trudy Tschui, who has formally raised the matter with the Department of Transport and Main Roads (DTMR), citing concerns about the potential for misdirection.
“This request to DTMR aligns with the ongoing issues at that area. The bridge and access are dangerous, add in the confusion of the uncertainty of the name, and it is an accident waiting to happen,” said Ms Tschui.
Within the region, there are three locations known as Banyan Creek: one on Tully/Mission Beach Road (Whitings Crossing), another on the Bruce Highway north of Tully near the service stations, and a third as you cross the bridge into the Tully township.
Drivers unfamiliar with the region have been left guessing, with the signage causing uncertainty for those navigating between communities, especially during North Queensland’s wet season.
“The confusion happens when the flooding occurs and social media reports Whitings is over, and as new residents are unsure where that is, they may head out to the Bruce Highway from Mission Beach only to discover the road is closed,” explained Ms Tschui.
Ms Tschui said the issue had been brought to the attention of Cassowary Coast Regional Council through both community feedback, and personal experiences.
“I have had residents contact me directly about the matter, and I see the comments on social media of other voicing their concerns,” she added.
In response, the concern was escalated to DTMR, the authority responsible for road signage across the state.
“I have contacted DTMR directly, asking for a sign to go under the Banyan Creek sign reading “Known Locally as Whitings Crossing”, but I have not been successful with that request,” said Ms Tschui.
“There’s a process and policy regarding name changing, but I feel another sign would be adequate as opposed to a name change.”
A TMR spokesperson confirmed the department is aware of the concerns, stating that signage across the area is accurate.
“The Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) is aware of concerns regarding multiple Banyan Creek signs in the Cassowary Coast region,” the spokesperson said.
“There are two state-controlled roads that cross Banyan Creek: the Bruce Highway and Tully–Mission Beach Road. Signage at both crossings is accurate and compliant with TMR guidelines.”
Clear and consistent signage plays an important role in ensuring safe and efficient travel, particularly in regional areas where visitors may rely heavily on road directions.
At the time of publishment, despite community concerns, no changes to the existing signage have been confirmed.
Upgraded recovery grants will offer vital support for local businesses and community groups in the Cassowary Coast region. Photo source: Cassowary Coast Regional Council
Small businesses and community organisations across the Cassowary Coast are being urged to apply for increased disaster recovery support, with grants of up to $50,000 now available through the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA).
The Exceptional Disaster Assistance Recovery Grants have been doubled from $25,000 to $50,000, reflecting the severity of recent weather events, including the Queensland Monsoon Trough, Cyclones Koji and Narelle, and severe weather since December 2025. The Cassowary Coast is among the activated local government areas, making eligible businesses and not-for-profits able to access the funding.
The grants are designed to support clean-up and recovery efforts, covering costs such as repairing damaged infrastructure, replacing equipment, removing debris, and covering additional labour expenses. Non-profit organisations can also apply for the same level of funding, while some areas may be eligible for additional low-interest disaster recovery loans.
To make the process easier, QRIDA is offering personalised support through its “QRIDA Connect” sessions, allowing applicants to receive one-on-one assistance online or over the phone without leaving their home or business.
Authorities are encouraging those affected to begin documenting damage as soon as it is safe, complete the Disaster Impact Survey, and gather key documents such as photos, financial records and insurance details to support their applications.
QRIDA has also highlighted the importance of mental health support, with free and confidential services available to help individuals and communities through the recovery process.
Eligible businesses and organisations are encouraged to act quickly, with the increased funding providing a timely boost to support recovery and rebuild efforts across the region. Additional information can be found online at www.qrida.qld.gov.au/program/exceptional-disaster-assistance-recovery-grants-nq-monsoon-trough.
Mission Beach is set to mark a major milestone this April, with a weekend of celebrations to officially reopen the revitalised town centre following the largest investment in the precinct in more than 50 years.
Official proceedings, including speeches and a ribbon cutting, will take place on Friday 17 April from 3:30pm at the Mission Beach stage. Special guests include Cassowary Coast Regional Council Mayor Teresa Millwood, Councillor Trudy Tschui, and Managing Director of RMS Richard McDonald.
The main community celebrations will follow across Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 April, bringing locals, visitors and businesses together to experience the renewed heart of Mission Beach.
Saturday’s program begins at 7am with a new-look Paradise Run, before Porter Promenade comes alive with a full day of free activities. Live music, beach games, wildlife displays, creative workshops, roving entertainment and native tree giveaways will feature, alongside food and drink specials from local businesses. Visitors can also enter to win a prize pack valued at more than $1,500 by supporting participating traders.
Sunday wraps up the weekend with the Mission Beach Markets at Ulysses Park from 7am, along with Wearable Weaves workshops at Castaways throughout the day.
Mayor Teresa Millwood said the project marked a significant turning point for the region.
“This project has brought this iconic destination to life – unleashing Mission Beach’s tremendous tourism potential and creating opportunities for investment, economic growth, and prosperity.”
“The works weren’t easy, and I thank the community for sticking with us. Your resilience, patience, and the way you’ve worked with us through all the ups and downs has been fantastic.”
Councillor Trudy Tschui said the revitalisation had created a space designed for both locals and visitors.
“The revitalisation project has transformed the heart of Mission Beach. It’s a vibrant, welcoming, accessible and family-friendly place that invites visitors and locals to linger longer.”
The $21.5 million project, jointly funded by the Australian Government, Queensland Government and Cassowary Coast Regional Council, has delivered significant upgrades to Porter Promenade and the beachfront precinct, improving accessibility, safety and overall amenity.
The community is encouraged to come along, explore the revitalised space and support local businesses as Mission Beach celebrates its next chapter.
For more information visit www.cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au/Meet-us-in-Mission
WHAT: Mission Beach Town Centre Revitalisation Opening & Community Celebration
WHEN: Friday 17 April 2026 3:30pm (official opening), Saturday 18 April 2026 from 7:00am, Sunday 19 April 2026 from 7:00am
WHERE: Mission Beach Stage, Porter Promenade, & Ulysses Park, Mission Beach
Motorists are being advised of upcoming closures at Vic Sivyer Bridge, with essential maintenance works scheduled to take place across April.
The Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) will undertake repairs to key steel structural components as part of its ongoing program to maintain the safety and reliability of bridges on the state-controlled road network.
Closures will occur from Monday 13 April to Sunday 19 April, between 7:30am and 4pm daily. A second phase of works will run from Monday 20 April to Wednesday 22 April, with adjusted hours from 9am to 2:30pm to support school access.
During both periods, a half-hour access window will be available each day from 11:30am to 12pm to allow limited vehicle movement. Emergency services will be granted access at all times if required.
Variable Message Signs will be installed on approaches to the bridge to keep motorists informed of changing traffic conditions, with any weather-related delays also communicated via signage.
Drivers are encouraged to plan ahead and allow extra travel time during the works period. For further information, residents can contact TMR directly via email at cairns.office@tmr.qld.gov.au or by phone on 4045 7144.
On 1 April 2026, the Forrest Beach Tourist Park officially reopened, with the Forrest Beach Progress Association once again appointed as caretakers, a role they have held for the past few years.
The park’s first visitors were Toby and his dad, who arrived on the 2nd, Thursday night and stayed for three nights.
When asked why they chose Forrest Beach, Toby said the location was a major drawcard.
“It’s close to the beach, with a fantastic view, and it’s very reasonably priced. The local businesses are also very handy. Last night the takeaway shop served two great meals, and the store has all the supplies we need for our stay, so we don’t need to bring much with us.”
While it is Toby and his dad’s first time camping together, it is not his dad’s first experience travelling to RV parks. He has travelled around 250,000 kilometres across Australia, but after being off the road for a year due to minor health issues, this trip was a welcome opportunity to get the van back in action and enjoy an easy setup.
The park area is also home to an abundance of wildlife, giving visitors plenty to enjoy simply by watching the natural surroundings.
(Contributed with thanks by John Scuderi of the Forrest Beach Progress Association)
Caption: John Scuderi of the Forrest Beach Progress Association welcomes Toby and his dad to Forrest Beach RV Park. Photo supplied
Reliable, high‑speed internet is critical for modern businesses. It helps drive efficiency, productivity, customer service, and employee satisfaction. But business needs can be very different from those of a typical household.
While home internet is often used for streaming, gaming, and browsing, businesses rely on fast, stable connections for cloud‑based tools, online marketing, data backups, video conferencing, and website services. These activities often demand higher upload speeds and more robust support than what some residential plans can provide.
Despite this, many businesses using nbn are still on residential plans that may not meet their performance needs. They are potentially missing out on faster upload speeds, improved reliability, and business‑grade support.
nbn encourages businesses to review their internet plans as they would with other utilities.
Three simple steps to get the most from your nbn connection:
The State’s first Special Commissioner for Regional Rural Queensland has been appointed to focus on delivering programs and services across the Queensland. The Townsville-based role will help unlock economic opportunities, strengthen local voicesand improve service delivery across regional Queensland.
A born and raised North Queenslander, Andrew Cripps is a passionate advocate for the regions, experienced Recovery Coordinator and former Minister, and brings a deep understanding of the complexities regional Queenslanders face, aiming to strengthen the voice of regional communities in government decision-making and supporting future growth.
The new role will focus on government policies, programs and services better reflecting the needs, priorities and aspirations of regional and rural Queenslanders.
Former Deputy Mayor and Queensland Minister for Natural Resources and Mines, Mr Cripps was born and raised in the farming town of Tully and brings a wealth of regional knowledge, government experience and leadership to the role.
Recently serving as the Recovery Coordinator for North Queensland, following the 2024 floods, he understands delivering for regional communities. As Special Commissioner, Mr Cripps will engage directly with communities across Queensland, helping to identify barriers, unlock opportunities and drive better outcomes in regional and rural areas.
The role will act as a direct link between communities and government, ensuring local insights help shape policies, programs and investment decisions and support delivery of key government priorities.
Minister for Regional and Rural Development Dale Last said the appointment would bolster the voice of regional and rural communities with a senior government role based in the regions.
“The Crisafulli Government understands that Queensland doesn’t start and end in Brisbane,” Minister Last said.
“For too long the former government took their eye off the ball in regional Queensland and failed to listen to these communities who were calling for action on youth crime, health, housing and cost of living.
“This Special Commissioner for Regional and Rural Queensland will be on-the-ground across this state, listening and helping deliver what’s needed for Queenslanders.
“Queenslanders deserve timely, effective and accessible government services no matter where they live and Andrew Cripps brings the right mix of experience and community connection to help deliver that.
“As the most decentralised State in mainland Australia with more than half of the population living outside Brisbane, we understand the importance of a direct link between people in regional Queensland and decision-makers in government.
“Regional Queensland is full of opportunity, and this role is about making sure communities are supported to grow, attract investment and create jobs.
“Whether it’s supporting growers, backing local industry or making sure services like hospitals, roads and schools keep pace with growing communities, this role is about turning local voices and knowledge into real results.”
A major road safety operation is underway across Queensland, with authorities ramping up enforcement as school holiday travel begins.
Operation Easter Break has been launched by the Government and the Queensland Police Service (QPS), targeting unsafe and fatigued drivers during one of the busiest periods on the state’s roads. The initiative will see a high-visibility police presence statewide, with a particular focus on the “Fatal Five” risk factors known to contribute to serious crashes.
The campaign comes amid ongoing concerns about road trauma, with 20 lives lost on Queensland roads during the 2025 Easter period alone.
Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg said the operation aimed to address dangerous driving behaviours and improve safety outcomes.
“Too many Queenslanders are being impacted by trauma on our roads and waterways, and the trend has been going in the wrong direction for a long time - that’s why we’re focused on stronger enforcement and safer behaviour this Easter,” Minister Mickelberg said.
“These campaigns send a strong message that dangerous behaviour, whether on the road or on the water, will not be tolerated - I urge everyone travelling this Easter to drive to the conditions, never speed or drink and drive, and if you’re heading out on the water, slow down and wear a lifejacket.”
QPS Chief Superintendent Mark Wheeler said officers would be out in force, particularly targeting fatigued drivers.
“We’re doing our part to make Queensland safer, but we all must also take responsibility - slow down, rest when tired, and make safe choices to protect themselves and others this Easter.”
Authorities are urging all Queenslanders to plan ahead, take regular breaks, and prioritise safety both on the road and on the water this holiday season.
CAPTION: High-visibility patrols will be conducted on highways, regional roads, and major travel routes over the coming weeks. Photo source: QPS
A free SMS program is helping Queenslanders navigate alcohol and other drug concerns in a way that feels safe, private and accessible, offering support without the pressure of a phone call or face-to-face appointment.
Run by Adis 24/7 Alcohol and Drug Support, the initiative delivers supportive, practical messages directly to users’ phones, making it easier for people to take that first step when they’re ready.
“The SMS Support Program breaks down that initial barrier of reaching out for help, which we know so many people struggle with,” said Adis Senior Counsellor Clare.
The program offers three tailored options to suit different needs, including a 30-day program with twice-daily messages, a 14-day detox support program designed to complement medically supervised detox, and a weekend tips option providing guidance during higher-risk periods.
Each message is designed to offer simple advice, encouragement and reassurance in a non-judgemental way.
“Feelings of shame or stigma can make it even harder for people to ask for support. This text program offers that support without an added layer of pressure,” Clare said.
Since launching, more than 600 Queenslanders have signed up, with many reporting the messages help them stay on track, particularly during more challenging moments.
“For some people, it’s the first time they’ve ever engaged with a support service, and it helps them feel a little less nervous about taking the next step,” she said.
Free and available statewide, the Adis SMS Support Program allows users to join at any time and opt out whenever they choose, offering support that fits around them.
Sometimes, taking the next step can be as simple as sending a message.
CAPTION: A simple text could be the first step towards support. Photo source: Queensland Health
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