Hinchinbrook sugarcane growers are playing a key role in major new research aimed at securing effective and sustainable canegrub control for the future, as current chemical options face possible restrictions.

Canegrubs are one of the most costly pests affecting sugarcane, with moderate infestations reducing yields by 10–20 per cent and severe outbreaks cutting production by more than 40 per cent, the equivalent of around 30 tonnes of cane per hectare. Across the industry, unchecked canegrub damage is estimated to cost up to $60 million annually.

At present, neonicotinoid insecticides such as imidacloprid are the primary control option. However, these products are under review by the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority, with strong indications that their use could be restricted or phased out by 2028–29.

In response, Sugar Research Australia (SRA) is leading a major project to identify alternative insecticides. Following laboratory screening of 23 products, up to 10 promising options have now progressed to large-scale field trials, including trial sites located in the Herbert River region

Chemical applications were completed in November across 12 trial sites statewide, with treatments applied to both plant cane and first ratoon crops. Over the next year, the Herbert River region trials will be closely monitored to assess effectiveness, yield protection, soil persistence and water mobility, ensuring any future recommendations meet environmental standards.

SRA’s lead entomologist, Dr Kevin Powell, said the trials were critical to ensuring growers have viable control options available before current products are withdrawn. Preliminary field results are expected by the end of 2026, with full datasets ready by 2028.

The research is expected to deliver new tools that protect Hinchinbrook yields, reduce long-term costs, and support sustainable cane farming into the next decade.

Residents of the Hinchinbrook Shire are being reminded to act quickly and responsibly if they encounter sick, injured or orphaned native wildlife, with expert help available through dedicated wildlife rescue services.

Native animals can become injured or unwell for many reasons, including vehicle strikes, disease, attacks by other animals, or becoming trapped in fencing or netting. Sadly, these incidents often leave young animals orphaned and vulnerable, requiring urgent and specialised care.

If you come across a sick, injured or orphaned wild animal (excluding marine animal strandings), the first step is to call Hinchinbrook Wildlife Support on 0477 199 758 or 1300 ANIMAL (1300 264 625) immediately. The 1300 ANIMAL (1300 264 625) service operates from 7am to 7pm, 365 days a year, providing specialist advice on the safest way to respond and ensuring the animal has the best possible chance of survival. After hours, assistance is still available through the RSPCA Hotline, which can help connect callers with their nearest wildlife rescue organisation.

Even when an animal appears to have only minor injuries, experts warn that serious internal trauma may still be present. This also applies if a dog or cat has interacted with wildlife, as even small scratches or contact with saliva can transmit harmful bacteria that require professional treatment.

For marine animal strandings, including sick, injured or deceased turtles, dolphins, dugongs or whales, the public should call 1300 130 372.

The Queensland Government appreciates the community's compassion for native animals, noting that by taking these actions, residents will be directly contributing wildlife conservation efforts accross the state.

With the wet season underway and the possibility of heavy rain and flooding on the horizon, health authorities are urging North Queensland communities to be aware of melioidosis, a rare but potentially deadly tropical disease found in soil and water.

Melioidosis is caused by the bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei, which lives naturally in deep soil and muddy water across northern Australia. Cases are most commonly reported during the wet season, particularly after periods of heavy rain or flooding, when the bacteria can rise to the surface and spread more easily.

While melioidosis is rare in healthy adults and children, it can cause severe illness if it enters the body through cuts or sores, is inhaled in contaminated dust or water droplets, or is consumed in untreated water.

Symptoms can appear anywhere from one day to three weeks after exposure and may include fever, cough, difficulty breathing, skin ulcers or non-healing sores. In serious cases, the infection can spread through the bloodstream, leading to sepsis and, if untreated, death.

People most at risk include those with underlying health conditions such as diabetes, kidney or lung disease, cancer, or weakened immune systems, as well as people who drink alcohol heavily.

The seriousness of the disease was spotlighted a couple of years ago after a North Queensland mother lost her leg after contracting melioidosis in 2024. In her case, a small cut sustained during everyday activity became the entry point for the bacteria, leading to a life-threatening illness that required intensive medical care.

Health experts say early treatment is critical. Melioidosis is treated with strong antibiotics for at least three months, and severe cases often require hospitalisation and intensive care. Prompt medical attention can be lifesaving.

There is no vaccine for melioidosis, but prevention plays a crucial role, particularly during the wet season. Residents are encouraged to:
- Avoid contact with muddy soil or flood water where possible
- Wear waterproof footwear and gloves when gardening or working outdoors
- Cover cuts, sores or wounds with waterproof dressings
- Wash skin thoroughly if it comes into contact with soil or muddy water
- Take extra care with foot and wound hygiene, especially for people with diabetes
- Consider wearing a mask when using high-pressure hoses around soil or bore water

Melioidosis does not usually spread from person to person or from animals, but exposure can lead to the illness days, months, or even years later.

Health authorities are reminding the community that while most people exposed to the bacteria do not become sick, melioidosis can be life-threatening for those who do. Awareness, early recognition of symptoms and preventative measures are key, particularly as wet weather conditions continue.

Anyone feeling unwell after potential exposure to muddy water or soil is urged to seek medical advice promptly. For health advice, residents can contact their local doctor, health centre or call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) at any time. In an emergency, call 000.

Hinchinbrook Shire Council have been activated for disaster funding to assist with their counter-disaster operations and the reconstruction of essential public assets, and Townsville Council can now recoup costs for repairs to their road network.

Personal Hardship Assistance has been activated for flooded residents in Flinders and Richmond, battling the impacts of recent monsoon flooding.

Assistance includes grants of $180 for individuals and up to $900 for a family of five or more for emergency essentials like food, clothing and medicine, and funds for residents who have been without essential services for more than five days.

Three income-tested support measures targeted at uninsured residents are available as well, including Structural Assistance Grants up to $80,000 to return a home to a safe and habitable condition.

In response to the North Queensland Monsoon Trough, 18 LGAs are currently receiving financial support from the Government under the joint Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain said assistance will continue to be activated where required.

“We’re facing a significant recovery operation that will be measured in months and years rather than days and weeks,” Minister McBain said.

“As floodwaters slowly recede and we learn more about the impacts of this disaster, we will extend all support necessary to help north and north-west Queensland communities.”

Queensland Minister for Disaster Recovery Ann Leahy said the government is in constant contact with councils to make sure affected Queenslanders are cared for.

“We’re working tirelessly to support all eligible requests for Personal Hardship Assistance and other DRFA measures,” Minister Leahy said.

“Applications for hardship assistance can be made at www.disaster.qld.gov.au or by calling our 24/7 Queensland Community Recovery Hotline on 1800 173 349.”

Personal Hardship Assistance available to eligible north-west Queensland residents:
Emergency Hardship Assistance – $180 per person, up to $900 for a family of five or more to purchase immediate essentials like food, clothing and medicine.

Essential Services Hardship Assistance – $150 per person, up to $750 for a family of five or more, to assist with immediate needs following the loss of essential services at home for more than five consecutive days.

Essential Household Contents Grants – income-tested assistance for uninsured residents, up to $1,765 for individuals and up to $5,300 for couples or families to replace destroyed essential household contents such as bed linen and whitegoods.

Structural Assistance Grants – up to $80,000 for uninsured, income-tested owner-occupiers towards the repair or replacement of a disaster-damaged dwelling to return it to a safe and habitable condition.

Essential Services Safety and Reconnection Scheme – income-tested grants to help uninsured residents reconnect damaged services like electricity, gas, water or sewerage. Up to $5,000 per household.

Did you know that nbn Australia provides free community Wi-Fi services at the Ingham Showground and Halifax Hall in disaster or emergency situations!

If you are struggling with your mobile service or internet connectivity, you can go to the site and turn your mobile on to Wi-Fi calling.

That way you can browse the internet and make calls for free.Connect to the internet through the Community Wi-Fi service

Important things to know
Performance of Community Wi-Fi: This Community Wi-Fi is designed to allow you and your community to access the internet. The performance and range of the Community Wi-Fi may be impacted by several factors, including:
• Total loss of power
• Distance from the installed Wi-Fi equipment
• Environmental factors such as heavy rain, heavy dust or something else blocking the installed satellite and Wi-Fi equipment

Usage
This service may support access to video streaming; however, if multiple users try to use video streaming services, such as Netflix, at the same time, the quality of your experience may lessen. The service may be subject to data usage restrictions and other limitations. Your use of this service will be subject to the Terms and Conditions (T&Cs) from the phone and internet service provider supplying the service to your community. The available capacity of this Community Wi-Fi service may be shared with other users. Please consider others when using this service. nbn cannot guarantee the security of the Wi-Fi service, and is not responsible for the acts of any third parties that access or attempt to access your device and or files while using the internet.

How to connect
Through the Community Wi-Fi service, you and your community can connect to the Internet via Wi-Fi using any smartphone, tablet, laptop or computer. This service will be accessible inside and outside, within approximately 100 metres of the location of the Community Wi-Fi service.

To connect:

1. Open the Wi-Fi setting in your device
2. Select the network named “Community Wi-Fi” (No password is required)
3. When the “Welcome page” appears, read and accept the internet service provider’s Terms and Conditions, click “Get Online” and then “Continue”
4. You should now be connected to the internet

Need technical support?
Please call the Community Wi-Fi Support Team on 1300 626 267.

Installed equipment
The following equipment is owned or leased by nbn and has been installed to provide the Community Wi-Fi:
• An nbn™ Sky Muster™ satellite terminal
• Wi-Fi equipment
• There may be a backup power supply.

The installed equipment will require reliable 240V AC power, which must be supplied by the community. If a backup power is supplied, it will only allow the installed equipment to operate for up to approximately 8 hours without main power.

Harley is the super sweet snuggle machine who's ready to bring love and joy into your home. With a gentle and affectionate nature, he's perfect for families, especially those with children. There's nothing Harley loves more than cuddling up with loved ones and sharing those heartwarming moments that make family life so special.

Harley's intelligence and eagerness to please shine as she quickly picks up new tricks. Already mastering the art of sitting and well on the way to perfecting the "shake," Harley's treat-focused motivation makes training an absolute breeze. Beyond their nurturing disposition, Harley also enjoys time in the company of other dogs, getting along wonderfully with canines of all sizes.

Whether playing in the park or lounging on the couch, Harley will be a loyal companion who's always eager for affection and play. If you're looking for a loving, trainable, and dog-friendly pet to join your household, Harley might be your perfect match!

If you’re interested in meeting Harley, please complete an animal enquiry form at: https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html.

Included in adoption fee of $495: Desexed, Micro-chipped, Up to date vaccinations, Flea, tick, and intestinal worm treated, and on ProHeart.

DOB: 13/06/2025
Sex: Male
Breed: Staffy x
Colour: White
Kid friendly: Yes
Cat Friendly: Untested
Other dogs: Yes
Fences: 6ft

As Queensland enters disaster season, driver trainers and motorcycle rider trainers are being encouraged to keep their professional credentials easily accessible, with accreditations now available through the Queensland Digital Licence app.

The Queensland Digital Licence app already supports digital driver licences, recreational marine licences and photo identification cards, and has been adopted by more than 1.2 million Queenslanders. Around 1,000 new users continue to sign up each day, highlighting growing confidence in digital credentials as a reliable alternative to physical cards.

Additional transport accreditations are expected to be added to the app in 2026, further expanding its usefulness for professionals who need quick, secure access to their credentials.

The app now allows accredited trainers to securely store their licences in one place, removing the need to carry physical cards that can be lost, damaged or left behind during severe weather events or emergency situations. With more Queenslanders relying on digital access during floods, cyclones and other disruptions, having credentials available on a mobile device provides an added layer of convenience and peace of mind.

Driver trainer and motorcycle rider trainer accreditations are the latest additions to the Queensland Digital Licence app, following the successful integration of Queensland Building and Construction Commission licences. The expansion continues the move toward providing practical, digital access to essential government services when they are needed most.

Trainer accreditations stored in the app are protected by industry-leading security measures designed to safeguard personal information and reduce the risk of identity theft or fraud. Users can also quickly check the status of their licence, including whether it is active, nearing renewal or expired, without the need to access separate systems or paperwork.

For learner drivers and riders, the app also offers reassurance, allowing credentials to be verified quickly and easily. This is particularly important during disaster recovery periods, when training and transport services may be operating under increased pressure.

With disaster season underway, the Queensland Digital Licence app offers a practical way for trainers and other licence holders to stay prepared, connected and credential-ready, no matter the conditions.

For more information on digital credentials, visit qld.gov.au/digitallicence.

By Dr Bianka Vidonja Balanzategui

The Catholic parishes of the Herbert River district have had their fair share of characterful, dedicated and inspiring priests over the decades. There would probably be few people alive today who recall Father Severino Mambrini OFM, yet for years after he had left the district, he was recalled with great love and for the way he ‘sacrificed himself for the people, giving away everything he had’.

It is hard to imagine now, but when Father Mambrini arrived in the district in 1923, Ingham was still little more than a frontier town. Among the earliest European settlers, Italians made up a significant portion of the population, and it was already customary for St Patrick’s Parish to appoint priests who spoke Italian.

Father Mambrini came to make a report on the Italian immigrants. Accompanied by one of St Patrick Parish’s assistant priests, Italian-speaking Father Morley, they travelled the district in a sulky and later motor car, taking a census over a period of two months. He was shocked but nevertheless understood why a large number of children were not baptised and that 96% of the Italian population had not been to Sunday Mass since leaving Italy.

He and Bishop Shiel recognised that the remedy might be English or Irish priests who spoke fluent Italian and Mercy Sisters who would visit the Italians in their homes to encourage the parents to send their children to the convent school.

Father Mambrini remained in the district for ten years, living in both Halifax and Ingham. He was a man of character, conviction, and unfailing “can-do,” remembered for his astuteness, racy style, zeal, and pragmatism. An amusing example of his pragmatism was that when meat was served for Friday's lunch during a home visit, he would make the sign of the cross over it, declare, “I bless you the fish,” and then sit down and partake heartily of the ‘fish’!

His zeal seems to have got him into trouble because he often came up with ideas that were either vetoed by those in authority or fell through. For instance, Bishop Shiel was not impressed when Father Mambrini suggested that the district could do with additional convent schools. The Sisters of Mercy had not long before opened a convent school in Halifax. The Bishop felt Father Mambrini was better visiting State Schools for religious instructions than suggesting impossible schemes!

is aim to provide more Catholic schools in the district was realised when Father O’Meara brought the Canossian Daughters of Charity to Trebonne to open a convent school, and when the Mercy Sisters founded another at Victoria Estate. In addition, by building small country churches, Dean Thomas Grogan brought the Church to Italians living in the farthest reaches of the Parish, just as Father Mambrini had suggested the nuns try to do.

Father Mambrini arranged for the construction of the Sacred Heart Monument in the old Ingham Cemetery, which stands over the graves of the victims of the 1927 flood. It stands as a tangible legacy of his presence in the district.

He died in Sydney aged 65 on December 16, 1940. Though absent from the district for nearly a decade, he was never forgotten and recalled fondly.

Disaster assistance has been activated for the Cassowary Coast following widespread monsoonal flooding across North Queensland, unlocking funding to support recovery and essential public works.

Under joint Commonwealth–state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), Cassowary Coast Regional Council is now eligible for funding to support counter disaster operations and the reconstruction of essential public assets damaged during the recent flooding.

The expanded assistance comes as the Albanese and Crisafulli Governments move to support communities impacted by heavy rainfall and flooding over the Christmas period, with multiple North Queensland local government areas now included in the activation.

Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain said the additional DRFA support would help communities recover from the significant impacts of the event.

“These monsoonal conditions have had a huge impact on communities, livestock, roads and infrastructure. This activation will make sure affected councils have the funds they need to repair essential infrastructure and recoup counter disaster operation costs from this significant event,” Minister McBain said.

“In addition, farmers and graziers who have been directly impacted by the floods can now access low interest loans to put cash in their pocket and get them through this very difficult period.”

While loan assistance and emergency fodder support have been directed toward western and Gulf region primary producers, the activation for the Cassowary Coast ensures the council can recover extraordinary costs associated with protecting public safety and restoring damaged infrastructure.

Funding made available under the DRFA can be used to reimburse eligible counter disaster operations and to reconstruct uninsured essential public assets back to their pre-disaster condition.

Residents and businesses are encouraged to stay informed through official disaster recovery channels as assessments continue across the region and visit the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority website or contact Cassowary Coast Regional Council directly.

Cassowary Blooms & Coffee are welcoming in the new year with bouquets of fresh florals and serving trays of scrumptious scones, inviting the community to pop in for a cuppa and a carnation!

Growing and glowing at 41 Butler Street in Tully, the business recently underwent a rebrand, closing the chapter of Petal & Beanz to pave the way for a fresh new approach to operations under the title of Cassowary Blooms & Coffee.

Inspired by the region’s tropical surroundings, the popular florist will continue to offer a complete and beautiful floral service, proudly serving Tully, Mission Beach, Cardwell and the wider Cassowary Coast, with both pick-up and delivery available for fresh flowers and bespoke bouquets.

Contact Cassowary Blooms & Coffee by calling (07) 4068 1780 or emailing CassowaryBlooms@gmail.com to spread a little floral cheer to begin the new year.

Jeepers! Where’d all the time go? Students across the state are now only two short weeks out from commencing the 2026 school year, with families now counting down the final days before routines and drop-off pick-up run arounds are back in full swing!

Although a busy and somewhat stressful time for parents and students, Tully Office Supplies is here, open and ready to ease families into the new school year with ease. The dedicated team of hardworking staff are more than ready to pack book list orders, advising families to pop on in early to feel prepared, ease any first-day jitters and avoid any pesky “uh oh” moments!

Head over to Tully Office Supplies’ website at tullyofficesupplies.com.au to cycle through what you need and to place your order, easily, conveniently and quickly. If you run into any dramas or computers aren’t your forte, the friendly team are only a phone call away on 07 4068 1141, where they’ll happily help you out or take your booklist order over the phone.

With the current wet weather putting a dampener on outdoor-related school holiday excitement, there’s no better time to encourage creativity among your children than with an engaging decoration activity to craft up some impressive and personal schoolbook covers! Recycle old magazines, catalogues, newspapers, or even leftover festive wrapping paper to collage something awesome for the year ahead.

To kick off your school year preparation on the right foot, visit Tully Office Supplies at 6A Still Street in Tully or contact them via email help@tullyofficesupplies.com.au or by phoning 07 4068 1141.

Just over nine months after its official commencement, the Mission Beach Planning & Mapping project will hold its second Community Workshop this March, inviting residents to voice opinions on the progression of the project.

June of 2025 saw action finally take place following a decade and a half of planning under the 2010 Community Vision for Mission Beach, launching a Balancing Conservation & Sustainable Development project as funded by Cassowary Coast Regional Council.

The project aims to support smarter conservation and development planning in Mission Beach through the mapping of rainforest values and identification of priority areas for protection.

Mission Beach contains the second-largest area of lowland rainforest in Australia, boasting the highest density of cassowaries in any urban setting. Extraordinarily biodiverse and undoubtedly breathtaking, the community has worked for many years to protect the area; however, in recent years, significant environmental decline has occurred, including cassowary vehicle strikes.

An initial Community Workshop was held on the 8th of November in 2025, where locals were encouraged to share their knowledge of the area to help co-design future solutions that balance conservation and sustainable development. March’s workshop hopes to continue such conversations, with the project’s leadership team encouraging residents to attend to proactively participate in practical, hands-on community workshops to shape how conservation and sustainable development can coexist in Mission Beach.

Additional information on the Community Workshop’s specific date will be available shortly via www.ninneyrise.com, and interested residents are welcome to submit an expression of interest form, also available on the Friends of Ninney Rise Website.

Ob la di has excitingly kicked off the new year in style, inviting the community to warm up their vocal cords and sing The Beatles infamous tune from your front door to theirs on 113 Victoria Street in Cardwell!

Boasting a vibrant collection of unique fashion pieces, gorgeous gifts, fabulous garden decorations and colourful homewares, including the work of Western Australian artist, Anna Chandler, the staff inside the self-titled “funky store” cannot wait to continue serving the Cardwell community for another wonderful year!

A recent snake bite in Cardwell has renewed warnings for residents to remain vigilant as wet weather and warmer conditions drive snakes closer to homes and public spaces. In the early hours of Friday, the 2nd of January, a man in his 20s was bitten by a snake on Marine Parade around 3.45am. Emergency services responded quickly, and the patient was transported in a stable condition to Ingham Hospital for medical treatment.

The incident comes as persistent rainfall across the region creates ideal conditions for snake activity. Heavy rain can flood burrows and natural habitats, forcing snakes to seek higher, drier ground, often in backyards, sheds, under buildings and around stored materials. Long grass, rubble and timber piles also provide attractive shelter.

While snakes are a natural part of North Queensland’s environment and are protected under the Nature Conservation Act 1992, experts warn that most snake bites occur when people attempt to interfere with or kill them. Snakes are generally not aggressive and will usually retreat if given space, but they may defend themselves if threatened.

Residents are encouraged to reduce risks by keeping lawns trimmed, removing clutter from yards, and ensuring homes are well sealed with screened doors and windows. Wearing enclosed footwear, especially at night or in wet conditions, is also advised, as snakes may be active after dark.

If you spot a snake out and about, remember to keep your distance, and if they're injured, contact North Queensland Wildlife Care on 0414 717 374. If you come across a snake on your property that raises concern, please contact a local snake catcher or a snake relocation service.

Snake bites, although uncommon, are a medical emergency. Anyone bitten should remain still, receive immediate first aid using pressure immobilisation, and call 000 without delay. As the wet season continues, awareness and preparation remain key to staying safe.

If you’ve been missing the Cardwell RSL’s infamous Sunday Aussie BBQ Lunch, then you’re in luck! Pop out your calendars and put a big, bright red circle around Sunday, the 8th of February, as the club gears up to mark its first Sunday Lunch of the new year.

The weekly gatherings raise valuable funds for the subbranch, which are redirected into the community through generous donations allocated to several community organisations, including local schools, the QF23 Cardwell Coast Guard, and other non-profit groups.

The Cardwell RSL will officially resume for the year after a well-deserved break on the same Sunday, kicking off 2026 with an annual general meeting (AGM) at 10am. Robert Lang, President of the Cardwell RSL, has urged all members and prospective members to attend the meeting to discuss 2025 and plan for the year ahead. If you have any queries, you can contact the subbranch via email at secretary@cardwell.rslqld.net.au.

Members of the wider local community are then warmly invited to come along to enjoy a social lunch from midday for just $10 per person, with dessert available for an additional $5 per person.

Come one, come all, and kick off 2026 with the Cardwell RSL this February at 36-38 Roma Street, Cardwell!

What: Cardwell RSL AGM & Sunday Lunch
When: Sunday, the 8th of February, from 10am
Where: Cardwell RSL, 36-38 Roma Street, Cardwell