Forrest Beach is open again!

On Thursday 6th March, the Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC) stinger net was returned to the water, opening the beach to swimmers.

Member of the Forrest Beach SLSC and stinger net supervisor, Bill Johnson said the beach had been cleaned up since the flood. Bill acknowledged that the conditions were good, and quickly seized the opportunity to reinstall the net.

Bill advises to swim in the early morning or late afternoon for the best tide and water temperature.

Swimmers are advised to stay within the safety of the stinger net and between the red and yellow flags at all times. For added protection, wearing a lycra stinger suit is recommended.

“This weekend will see big tides at 6-7 o’clock in the morning, so this weekend will be absolutely beautiful for swimming,” said Bill.

The lifesavers patrol the beach, Saturdays - 1.00-5:00pm and Sundays & Public Holidays - 9:00am-5:00pm.

The stinger net has been out for at least a month, and now is a great time to get back in the water.

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An Australian-first initiative to improve fatigue management on farms has heard directly from busy primary producers about how they prioritise rest, safety and productivity.

CQUniversity researchers are compiling the practical advice for farmers, with farmers – with input from across dairy, cotton, eggs and grains sectors.

Now the project is creating useful guides to highlight causes, impacts and management strategies for fatigue on farms – and launching a new survey to grow understanding of farmers’ experiences.

Fatigue on-farm has been identified as an industry-wide priority for the Rural Safety & Health Alliance (RSHA), a collaborative partnership between AgriFutures Australia, Australian Eggs, Australian Wool Innovation, Australian Pork Ltd, Cotton Research and Development Corporation, Dairy Australia and Grains Research and Development Corporation.

In collaboration with the RSHA, the Farming and Fatigue: Growing Sensible Solutions project aims to help industry measure and manage fatigue on-farm.

Amy Cosby is part of the project team from CQUniversity’s Agri-tech Education and Extension team as well as a dairy farmer and busy mum.

She says the research is a first for the Australian agriculture sector, and importantly works with farmers to highlight effective habits for rest and wellbeing.

“What farmers have told us so far is that managing fatigue on farms is about more than hours in bed – it’s impacted by stress, and seasons, and weather, and of course the huge workloads involved with life on the land,” she said.

“But what we’ve also found, and what is certainly my personal experience, is that farmers also consider what they eat, how they exercise, how they schedule employee shifts, and even how they socialise, to try to get better rest, balance their life and avoid fatigue.

“We want producers to have a clear understanding of how their current working patterns can be tweaked to better manage the real risks of fatigue on farms,” Amy said.

Farmers can learn more about the Farming and Fatigue project and complete the anonymous survey online: https://bit.ly/FarmingFatigueSurvey

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Biosecurity Queensland is advising of the preliminary identification of varroa mite (Varroa destructor) for the first time in Queensland.

Initial samples from a recreational apiary in the Lockyer Valley have returned a positive diagnostic result for Varroa destructor.

Further samples from recreational and commercial apiaries have been collected and are currently undergoing testing to confirm the presence of Varroa destructor and also check for other exotic pests and diseases.

Department of Primary Industries Deputy Director-General and Chief Biosecurity Officer Dr Rachel Chay said increased detections into Queensland’s border regions were expected in the coming months due to natural spread from New South Wales.

“Biosecurity Queensland has been preparing for this event and is working closely with the affected beekeepers to slow the spread of varroa mite and help guide management practices,” Dr Chay said.

“We’ve joined all other states and territories in shifting our focus from eradication to management to safeguard Queensland’s valuable honeybee industry and recreational beekeeping.

“Queensland's Varroa Mite Biosecurity Zone remains in place, which restricts the movement of bees, beehives and beekeeping equipment from states and territories with varroa mite.

“We remain committed to supporting the beekeeping industry by working alongside individual beekeepers, peak industry bodies and a dedicated biosecurity champion network.”

Queensland Beekeepers’ Association President Jacob Stevens said the first detection of Varroa destructor in Queensland had been expected “for some time now”.

“Thank you to the Queensland beekeepers who have reported varroa mite. Unfortunately, these reports come as no surprise,” Mr Stevens said.

All beekeepers are urged to remain vigilant and undertake monthly hive health checks to determine varroa mite presence.

All results should be reported to the Bee 123 online form, even if no mites are found.
Immediately report unexpected hive deaths, deformed bees, bees with parasites, poor brood patterns and dead brood to Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23.

Varroa development officers (VDOs) are available to provide advice to all Queensland beekeepers in early detection and integrated pest management principles. VDOs can be contacted at varroa@daf.qld.gov.au.

All beekeepers should:
• monitor for mites monthly using the alcohol wash method
• report all hive checks using the quick and easy Bee 123 form, even if no mites are found
• immediately report any suspect mites, unexpected hive deaths, deformed bees, bees with parasites, poor brood patterns and dead brood to Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23
• stay up to date with the latest information by subscribing to the bee e-alert
• attend a training workshop to learn how to best manage varroa mite in your hives
• register as a biosecurity entity, whether you have one hive or 100
• use decontamination practices between apiaries and always come clean and leave clean
• keep up to date on movement restrictions for your intended destination before moving bees or equipment.

The Queensland Government is inspiring young minds with science programs to promote agricultural science as a rewarding, long-term career choice.

Thousands of students will explore the role of ‘insects in agriculture’ as they take part in a national school plant science competition.

Registrations are now open for the Department of Primary Industries’ 29th annual Hermitage Research Facility Schools Plant Science Competition.

This year, students will focus on the world of insects, gaining insights into biology, ecology and the environment while contributing to sustainable agricultural practices.

Interest is soaring so far this year with almost 3,000 students from 93 schools across the country already registered to take part.

Students can enter all three award categories: Plant Science Project Awards, Art in AgRiculTure Awards, or the Guardians of Earth Global BioQuest.

Registrations for school students to enter this year’s competition are open until 30 May 2025, with entries closing on Friday 27 June 2025. All entrants will be in the running for a selection of fantastic awards and prizes.

Winners will be announced on 21 August 2025 at the Hermitage Research Facility's annual Awards Day and Agricultural Science Expo in Warwick.

Client Services Officer, Kerrie Rubie said this year's competition will give students the opportunity to learn all about insects and the role they play in Australian agriculture and global food security.

“It is incredibly important that our younger generation are educated about the different types of insects, animals, and fungi, as well as the weeds and diseases that pose a threat to our environment and agricultural industries,” she said.

Students can get their creativity flowing in the Art in AgRiculTure Awards competition and get outdoors into nature with Guardians of Earth April Global BioQuest.

“Exciting competitions like this one are critical for sparking passion for our industry. I encourage students to get involved and have some fun while also learning about the importance of insects and their impact on agriculture and food security,” Ms Rubie said.

For more information and to enter, visit Hermitage Schools Plant Science Competition online or call 13 25 23.

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Floodwaters may have receded, but for North Queensland’s sugarcane farmers, the road to recovery is only just beginning. Damaged crops, washed-out paddocks, and ongoing uncertainty over disaster funding have left many wondering how they’ll rebuild in time for next season.

CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens has called on the Queensland Government to urgently amend disaster recovery grants to cover the cost of replanting—something current funding does not allow.

“Getting crops back in the ground is just as critical as repairing fences or sheds,” Mr Menkens said. “Other states recognise this and allow replanting costs to be covered under disaster funding. Queensland needs to do the same.”

Many farmers across the Burdekin and Herbert River regions have been forced to start from scratch after floodwaters lingered, destroying young cane plants. Adding to the challenge, some growers may be locked out of assistance altogether due to outdated definitions of a ‘primary producer.’

Under current rules, those who supplement their income through harvesting contracts—an essential part of the industry—could be deemed ineligible for disaster grants. Mr Menkens argues this must change.

“These growers aren’t just running farms; they’re providing vital services that keep the industry moving. When you shut them out of support, you don’t just hurt individual farmers—you hurt the whole supply chain.”

The issue has sparked a strong response from Kennedy MP Bob Katter, who has demanded immediate action from the state government, calling the delay in securing Category D funding unacceptable.

“It’s been a month since record-breaking floods hit, and we’re still waiting for the state government to do its job,” Mr Katter said.

“In past disasters, this process was immediate—yet here we are, left high and dry while our farmers struggle to survive.”

A cartoon by renowned illustrator Harry Bruce has summed up Mr Katter’s frustration, capturing his determination to fight for the region.

“This is a fight we won’t walk away from,” Mr Katter said.

“If we don’t get what we need in North Queensland, then God help you, Mr ALP/LNP.”

Mr Katter also extended his thanks to AgForce North, CANEGROWERS, Queensland Cane Agriculture & Renewables, Nick Dametto MP, and Hinchinbrook Shire Council Mayor Ramon Jayo for their ongoing advocacy on behalf of farmers.

QCAR is also backing the push, joining forces with CANEGROWERS and AgForce Queensland to demand that Prime Minister Anthony Albanese declare Category D funding.

QCAR Chairman Christian Lago stressed that financial relief wouldn’t just support farmers but entire regional economies.

“For every dollar the government spends on recovery assistance funding, it has a multiplier effect, lifting up everyone from the quarry operators to the mum and dad cafe owners,” Mr Lago said.

With pressure mounting from industry groups, politicians, and affected communities, the message is clear: Queensland farmers need real support, and they need it now.

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It was wonderful to see the many local business managers and owners who turned up at the meet and greet to see the Small Business Commissioner, Dominique Lamb that was held last Wednesday night at Lee’s Hotel. Unfortunately, due to the impending cyclone Alfred looming off the Brisbane coast, her trip was cut short. But the evening proved to be a valuable source of connection, as she heard stories and hardship from the attendees, while exchanging contact details and words of sympathy.

The Hinchinbrook Shire Council organised a wonderful night, where after the formal speeches and introductions, there was chatter and story swapping, while other leading organisations such as Rural Financial Counselling Services and the Department of Small and Family Business were introduced once again.

On the Chamber side of operations, 1-on-1 sessions with QRIDA representatives Sam Spina and Bill Fletcher are booked out at full capacity. More interest is being shown from businesses in the local community, and more sessions are currently being organised as a result.

Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce is also working closely with Officers from Rural Financial Counselling Services (RFCS) to organise 1-on-1 sessions, allowing business owners the chance to have their conversations in a private and discreet setting. RFCS work hand in hand with your already allocated financial advisors and accountants, while also offering the services of a Business Wellness Coach, who will assist where there is overwhelming stress and angst. More details of these sessions will come once preparations have been finalised. If you are interested in attending these sessions, please contact the Chamber to express your interest.

The Hinchinbrook community is now coming up to 6 weeks post flood, and it’s been fantastic to see, from Chamber’s side the determination and resilience radiating from the business community. Striving to not give up, and open those doors no matter what, to once again serve their community. Chamber commend you all! With each passing day, more and more shops are reopening; and with Easter fast approaching, getting the word out that Ingham is “open for business” has never been so important. Chamber has recently taken on a tourism based social media campaign stating these details, as they try to invite tourists back to our town.

Contributed with thanks to Chamber President Mary Brown

The Recovery Hub is closing on Saturday 15 March, this is because the Emergency Hardship Assistance and Essential Services Hardship Assistance grants will be closing at 11.59pm on Friday 14 March 2025.

Chair of Recovery Mary Brown said, although it is closing, it does not mean demand is not still there. While the immediate emergency response is winding down, the need for assistance remains, prompting discussions on how to ensure continued access to vital services.

As part of the Disaster Management Group there are two phases, response and recovery.

The recovery phase includes four specialised subgroups: Human and Social, Infrastructure, Environment, and Economic. Each subgroup is chaired by a council member and includes relevant stakeholders.

The recovery process began with an initial meeting on February 14, shortly after the disaster, to assess the impact on the community. These findings were then relayed to the Master Recovery Group and they are responsible for developing a comprehensive Recovery Action Plan, setting short, medium, and long-term goals.

A proposed ‘Recovery Hub’ has been named as all short, medium and a long-term goals.

The proposed hub would act as a permanent point of contact for both the community and visiting agencies, allowing for better coordination of resources. The aim is not to replace existing services but to provide a centralised location where government agencies, financial counsellors, and wellness coaches can operate when they visit the area. This approach ensures continued connectivity between those in need and the organisations that can assist them.

A key issue identified is the lack of a dedicated meeting space for agencies providing assistance. Many organisations visit the area to offer support but operate without a clear, accessible location. As a result, people in need may struggle to find them. The proposed hub aims to bring these services under one roof, ensuring that the community knows exactly where to go for help.

While an official name is still being determined to avoid confusion with the existing community recovery hub at TAFE, the initiative aims to provide a much needed centralised location for information, resources, and support services.

On Tuesday, dependent upon what happens with Ex-Cyclone Alfred, I will be attending the Local Government Association of Queensland Civic Leaders Summit in Brisbane. The Summit is an informative platform that brings together all the Mayors in Queensland, politicians and specialist advisers enabling insight into emerging issues, innovative solutions to issues and exchange of ideas through networking with colleagues and government.

Matters that will be discussed include the agenda for making insurance more affordable and a funding increase for Local Governments through the Australian Federal Government Assistance Grants.

Tragic stories emanating from the recent floods endured in our district are confirming the fact that more and more people are forgoing insurance on their properties, due to significant cost increases over recent years and also as a means of cutting costs for household budgets with the current cost of living crisis. Issues to be examined include greater transparency in how prices, particularly for flood insurance, are set by insurers and accounting for resilience and natural hazard mitigation processes.

In relation to the Federal Assistance Grants, did you know that local government only receives around three cents in every dollar of taxation revenue, compared to around eighty cents for the federal government and around seventeen cents for the state. The percentage payable to local government has not increased in the past twenty years despite local government, as the government closest to the people, enduring more and more responsibility for delivery of essential services to their communities through continuous state and federal cost shifting practices.

In a report released only last year by the Local Government Association of Queensland, it was identified that in 2002, the financial impact of services shifted onto ratepayers by upper levels of government over a period of twelve months was estimated to be $47 million. Two decades on, this has increased by a whopping 378 percent to around $360 million over one year. Communities cannot afford for this cost shift to continue. Cuts and cost shifts to local Council’s are cuts to the community.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of southeast Queensland whom have been impacted by Ex-Cyclone Alfred. We are fully aware of what you are going through and sympathise with your current situation. We hope that you remain as safe as possible and wish you a speedy recovery.

Edith
I think maybe something similar to the Strand in Townsville would be more suitable for the young ones. I know there are a lot of sports or whatever they can get into, and even on weekends, they can go down the beach. Maybe something similar to the Strand in Townsville would be better, with slippery slides and water things the kids can play in. But I haven’t the faintest idea how to get this.

Lynette Croton
I'd like to see a playground for the kids in the park there, with a water feature. I was only talking about that the other day. It'd be nice to have something in the park where the kids could just run through beside their swings.

Jenny Christiansen
Probably more things to do for the young people and keep them in town,
more employment and then some sort of entertainment, just something to keep kids in town, would be good. I’m not sure how that could happen, but maybe it could be government funding.

Shaun Jones
I’m pretty new here, but as is the case anywhere, I’d like to see more things for young people. But I find it pretty good at the moment, it’s casual, family feel, and pretty laid back. The rain sucked but it’s a good little place, good position, nice and warm, and plenty of work.

Joe Pennisi
I think David Crisafulli is probably doing the right thing, but maybe getting people to lift all the air conditioning and stuff like that would be good. I think we're never going to get away from floods. So let's just make it easier for people to clean up and get started again.

Brian Newman
Obviously, there's quite a lot for aged care. I think we're going pretty well as far as I’m concerned. There's definitely a need for things for young people; sporting facilities are finding it hard to find committee members. But I think the Council and lots of groups have been trying to get more things for the local area, but it all costs money.

Gina Parr
I love Ingham. The people are great, there’s lots of help, and it's not busy. I don't have any complaints about Ingham whatsoever. Absolutely not. My grandson goes to the local school, which is absolutely amazing, but I have no complaints other than being flooded the other day, where we're not supposed to have been flooded. Otherwise, I've got no complaints, absolutely none.

Allan Colquhoun
A place for the old folks to get together, they do get together here, but a lot of them haven't got the money to buy a cup of coffee, see where that house is, there, that's ideally placed. Somebody owns it, but if a charity got together and they own that, the old folks could get downstairs and sort of have a yak.

Tiles are more than just a practical flooring or wall covering, they are an artistic element that can elevate the aesthetics of your home. Whether you are designing a kitchen splashback, a bathroom feature wall, or a stylish outdoor patio, selecting the right tile can make all the difference. With endless designs, materials, and finishes available, it’s important to consider both function and style to create a space that reflects your personality and enhances your living environment.

The first step in selecting tiles is identifying the style you want to achieve. Are you drawn to modern minimalism, rustic charm, or vibrant Mediterranean patterns? Each tile type carries a unique character that can transform a space. The material of the tile plays a crucial role in both aesthetics and functionality. Ceramic tiles are a popular and versatile choice, offering durability and a wide range of colours and designs. They work well in kitchens and bathrooms due to their water resistance and ease of maintenance. Porcelain tiles are more robust and denser than ceramic, making them ideal for high-traffic areas and outdoor spaces. They come in matte, polished, and textured finishes to suit different design needs. Natural stone tiles, such as marble, granite, slate, and travertine, offer a luxurious and organic look. While they require more maintenance, their unique textures and variations add a timeless elegance to any space. Glass tiles are often used for mosaics and feature walls, creating a luminous effect by reflecting light and making spaces appear larger and more vibrant.

Colour and pattern play a significant role in setting the mood of a space. Lighter tiles, such as whites and pastels, create a sense of openness and airiness, making small rooms feel more spacious. Bold colours, intricate patterns, or geometric designs can add character and make a statement. Wood-look or stone-look tiles provide the warmth of natural materials with the benefits of durability and easy maintenance. The size and layout of tiles also impact the overall effect. Large-format tiles give a modern and seamless look, reducing grout lines and creating a sense of continuity. Subway tiles, when laid in different patterns, add a dynamic and stylish effect to walls, while mosaic tiles offer intricate details and are perfect for splashbacks or feature walls.

Tiles have the power to redefine a space, whether through colour, texture, or pattern. A well-chosen tile design can enhance visual appeal by serving as a focal point, drawing attention to a particular area such as a kitchen splashback or an entryway floor. High-quality tiles add sophistication and durability, increasing the value of a home and making it more attractive to potential buyers. Their water-resistant and easy-to-clean surfaces improve functionality, especially in high-moisture zones like bathrooms and kitchens. The right choice of tiles can also create a distinct mood and atmosphere, with dark, moody tones evoking a sense of luxury, while bright, patterned tiles inject energy and creativity into a space.

There is a large array of tiles available and with investing time in selecting the right tile for your home can lead to a stunning and long-lasting transformation. Whether your goal is a sleek modern look or a cozy rustic feel, the right tiles will bring your vision to life.

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Only 350 kilometres of road connects Townsville to Cairns, this is Tropical North Queensland.  Here 115km north of Townsville on a road sandwiched between World Heritage listed National Parks, towering cane, rainforest waterfalls and magnificent beaches you will find Ingham.

William Bairstow Ingham bought a sugar plantation in 1874 on the Herbert River and by petition the following year the township was named in his honor. The first Italians arrived in Ingham in 1891, followed by a steady wave between 1900 and 1920.

These hardworking pioneers were the backbone of Ingham’s sugarcane industry, cutting cane by hand and driving its success. Their dedication not only sustained the industry but also shaped the town’s identity. Today, with more than half of Ingham’s population of Italian descent, it’s no surprise the town is often affectionately called ‘Little Italy.’

Hello Hinchinbrook!

As someone new to the region, I’ve been taking in the sights, meeting people, and getting a feel for what makes this place tick. This past week, I asked locals what they’d love to see more of in the community—check out Word on the Street on page 8 for their thoughts.

One thing that came up often was the need for more activities for young people. I can see why! Over the weekend, I went for a swim in the sea (which felt like stepping into a bath), hit the gym, and then… well, I wasn’t sure what else to do. I know the region has incredible waterfalls and hikes, but with some roads still closed, I had to put those adventures on hold.

So, I’d love to hear from you! What are your favourite things to do and see in Hinchinbrook and the Herbert? Whether it’s a hidden gem, a must-try local experience, or an off-the-beaten-path adventure, let me know—I’m keen to explore.

And with the federal election on the horizon, now is also the perfect time for our community to make its voice heard. What matters most to you?

Looking forward to your suggestions!

— Daniel

As one of your local Councillors, I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated staff who assisted the Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG). To the Hinchinbrook Shire Council work force on the ground, together with our local contractors who responded very quickly and rose to the challenges that were in front of them. A special congratulations to Mayor Ramon Jayo, Deputy Mayor Mary Brown, CEO Mary-Anne, and our senior leadership team, including Michelle Webster, Chris Johnstone, and Disaster Management Officer Michelle Watts. I also extend my appreciation to the SES and all emergency services, along with the volunteers who supported the LDMG during this challenging time.

I understand that many in our community are feeling the weight of recent events as we now transition into the recovery phase. Mayor Ramon has addressed this in a recent article; however, I want to emphasise that if anyone feels overlooked or unheard, please do not hesitate to reach out. We have numerous services available, including the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre and the Community Hub at the TAFE Centre, which are ready to assist you.

Council has faced significant waste management challenges following the disaster. Thankfully, with the foresight of our Infrastructure and Utility Services team under Chris Johnstone’s management, we have arranged for a shredder to help reduce this waste efficiently. This will extend the life of Warrens Hill Landfill and Resource Recovery Centre considerably, saving our rate payers in the future. The shredding operation is a collaborative initiative, jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), ensuring a more sustainable future for the region.

Rest assured, the Councillors are tirelessly advocating on your behalf both during recovery efforts and with government departments and community groups. While the journey to recovery will take time, I firmly believe in the resilience and compassion of our community. We are known for our ability to lend a helping hand and support one another through difficult times. Together, we will rebuild and emerge stronger.

Thank you for your ongoing support and commitment to our community.

A beautiful garden doesn’t just enhance your home’s curb appeal, it creates a relaxing outdoor retreat. Whether you have a sprawling backyard or a cosy courtyard, a few simple changes can make a world of difference.

Plan with Purpose
Before planting, consider how you want to use your space. Do you envision a peaceful reading nook, or a vibrant flower-filled haven. Deciding your goals helps guide your plant choices and layout.

Choose the Right Plants
Select plants suited to hot, humid climate and the soil type that they will thrive in. Native plants are a great low-maintenance option, requiring less water and care while supporting local wildlife. Mixing perennials with seasonal blooms keeps your garden looking fresh year-round.

Incorporate Hardscaping
Pathways, decking, and garden beds framed with stone or timber add structure and elegance. Even a simple gravel path or a feature wall can bring definition to your space.

Add a Personal Touch
Decorative elements like fairy lights, garden sculptures, or a cozy bench enhance the atmosphere. Vertical gardens or hanging planters are perfect for smaller areas, adding greenery without taking up floor space.

Maintain with Ease
Regular weeding, mulching, and watering are key to a healthy garden. Investing in an irrigation system or drought-tolerant plants can reduce upkeep while keeping your space lush.

With thoughtful planning and a few creative touches, your garden can become a stunning extension of your home.

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CANEGROWERS has written to the Federal Government, urging Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to raise the disaster recovery grant threshold to at least $75,000 for primary producers impacted by the recent flooding in north Queensland.

It has been more than two weeks since the government announced recovery assistance packages of up to $25,000 for affected growers.

While growers are grateful for the swift response and the inclusion of replant costs in recovery grants, reports from the ground make it clear that $25,000 is simply not enough to support the worst-affected farming businesses, CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan said.

"Growers appreciate the rapid response from both state and federal governments in announcing assistance following these devastating floods. However, as primary producers assess the damage, it’s evident that $25,000 barely scratches the surface for some of the hardest-hit farming businesses,” Mr Galligan said.

"The reality is the cost of recovery has risen dramatically. Prices for goods and services have soared over recent years, and primary producers are facing these higher costs as they work to rebuild their businesses. The level of support must reflect today’s economic conditions.

"We have written to the Prime Minister, urging the Federal Government to act as, we understand the Queensland Government has requested."

Beyond immediate relief, CANEGROWERS is calling for the following actions to help modernise disaster funding:

Updating the definition of a primary producer to reflect modern farm ownership, including those with off-farm income.

Ensuring grants are sufficient by indexing them to match rising recovery costs.

Improving workforce support to help businesses retain staff during recovery periods.

Establishing a dedicated pool of rural recovery officers embedded within industry groups to expedite recovery efforts.

"These aren’t just feel-good reforms – they are essential for keeping farms, communities, and industries viable after disasters," Mr Galligan said.

“CANEGROWERS, along with our partners at Queensland Farmers’ Federation and other commodity groups, will keep working with the state and federal governments to modernise how we approach disaster recovery.

“But in the meantime, it’s vital the grant threshold is increased. Farmers need this support now so they can get back to growing Australia’s food and fibre."