New apprenticeship initiatives are helping to strengthen Queensland’s workforce, with a focus on supporting small businesses, boosting training opportunities and encouraging more people to take up trades.

A key program is the $19 million Small Business Apprenticeship Pilot Program, which has supported 526 small businesses since its launch in October. Through the initiative, 579 apprentices in training are benefiting from subsidised wages, helping employers take on and retain staff while building essential skills.

The program has also delivered strong outcomes for regional Queensland, with around one third of successful registrations coming from businesses outside the south-east corner. Among the 35 eligible trades, carpentry accounts for the largest share of participants, followed by electrical and plumbing.

Eligible small businesses receive wage subsidies of 50 per cent for first and second year apprentices, and 25 per cent for third and fourth year apprentices while attending training. Over four years, apprentices under 21 may receive up to $10,060 in support, while those aged 21 and over may be eligible for up to $13,740.

Alongside construction-focused initiatives, there is also a growing emphasis on increasing female participation in trades through targeted programs and recognition. The 2026 Women in Manufacturing Apprentice Awards highlighted the achievements of female apprentices and the important role they play in shaping the future workforce.

Second year automotive electrician Zahlee Wheeler was awarded the Leading Apprentice Award, recognised for her leadership and for encouraging other young women to pursue a trade. Laila Stevens received the Highly Commended Apprentice Award for her mentorship of fellow apprentices and her advocacy for women in the manufacturing industry. Both recipients received financial support to assist with further training, career development, tools and uniforms.

These awards form part of broader efforts to increase female representation in manufacturing, where women currently make up 27 per cent of the workforce. Initiatives such as the Women in Manufacturing Leadership Program aim to support women at all stages of their careers, offering mentoring and professional development opportunities to help them progress from entry-level roles through to leadership positions.

Together, these programs reflect a continued focus on building a skilled and diverse workforce across Queensland, supporting both apprentices and the industries that rely on them.

More information is available at www.business.qld.gov.au/apprentice-pilot and applications for the 2026 Women in Manufacturing Leadership Program are now open www.nrmmrrd.qld.gov.au/manufacturing/women-in-manufacturing/leadership-program

‘Female representation in manufacturing, where women currently make up 27 per cent of the workforce.’ Photo sourced: Shutterstock

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Thunbergia grandiflora (syn. Thunbergia laurifolia) Blue Thunbergia are a major threat to remnant vegetation.

Blue thunbergia was promoted and sold as an attractive garden plant and became widespread in Queensland gardens. This vigorous plant soon escaped into native bushland and began causing considerable environmental damage. The plant climbs and smothers native vegetation, with the weight of the vine often pulling down mature trees.

Large tubers degrade creek and riverbanks and make destruction of blue thunbergia difficult. In garden situations, it will also quickly spread, and the large tubers may cause damage to paths, fences and foundations. Other ornamental species of thunbergia (black-eyed Susan, scarlet clock vine, golden glory vine, lady’s slipper) are not as invasive, however, they are not recommended for planting because of their potential to spread into surrounding bush land.

Thunbergia species are a major threat to remnant vegetation in the wet tropics. Blue thunbergia is a restricted category 3 invasive plant under the Biosecurity Act 2014. It must not be given away, sold, or released into the environment.

Some specimens collected in Queensland were previously identified as Thunbergia laurifolia. These are now considered to be Thunbergia grandiflora. The Act requires everyone to take all reasonable and practical measures to minimise the biosecurity risks associated with invasive plants under their control.

This is called a general biosecurity obligation (GBO). At a local level, each local government must have a biosecurity plan that covers invasive plants in its area. This plan may include actions to be taken on blue thunbergia. Some of these actions may be required under local laws. Contact your local government for more information.

Blue thunbergia is a vigorous perennial twining vine climbing up to 15 m high if supported. Leaves are opposite along the stem up to 15 cm long, 10 cm wide and broad-based narrowing to a pointed tip.

The trumpet-shaped flowers have a short, broad tube, white on the outside, yellowish inside, which expands to five rounded, pale lavender-blue petals. The flowers are up to 8 cm long and 6−8 cm across.

The seed pod is inconspicuous, cone shaped, 3−5 cm long, with a rounded base. The seed is flat, up to 1 cm long and covered with brown scales.

The plant develops a very tuberous root system, some tubers being as large as 70 kg. The root system, when cut, persistently sprouts from its many dormant buds.

Blue thunbergia reproduces via seed. Seeds in pods are catapulted several meters when the pod splits. Blue thunbergia is also capable of regenerating from stem fragments or portions of the tuberous roots and vegetatively by stolons.

Blue thunbergia is spread by people for ornamental plantings and dispersal of root pieces along river banks during floods, or transport from infested sites with earth removed for fill or other soil use.

Infestations of blue thunbergia are patchy and are mostly scattered along coastal streams from the Tully River to the Daintree. Areas of acute infestation are the Mulgrave River, the Johnstone River and lower Mossman River.

Blue thunbergia was originally sought for its attractive lavender flowers, and spread primarily via the ornamental plant trade. Public awareness of this garden escapee, with its vigorous growth and alarming potential to spread, is increasing. Existing garden specimens should be destroyed.

Plant cuttings should not be dumped—this is a frequent source of new weed infestations. The origin of new top soil or fill should be checked as physical transportation of plant segments in soil or flood waters is a major method of spread.

The cutting of the vines at ground level will give a smothered tree a reprieve, but regeneration of the vine from tubers will soon occur.

Only small plants can be dug out, as established plants normally have extensive underground tubers. Spraying or injecting with herbicides is often the only option.

Herbicide treatment is often the only option available and provides fast and effective control. Good application technique should result in few non-target plants being destroyed.

Although very effective, one application by either overall spraying or injection rarely achieves 100% success. Ongoing monitoring and follow-up is needed.

For more information visit www.biosecurity.qld.gov.au

Blue Thunbergia escaping a garden and growing through a town. Photo credit: Queensland Government

Blue Thunbergia flowers and vines up close: Photo credit: Hinchinbrook Shire Council

Blue Thunbergia smothering native vegetation along a creek bed. Photo credit: Queensland Government

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For 30 years, selectability has stood alongside regional Queensland communities — adapting, evolving and continuing to deliver care where it is needed most.

In 2026, the organisation marks three decades of supporting people and communities in regional, rural and remote Queensland.

Ingham regional coordinator, Julie Ross, said while selectability established a permanent brick-and-mortar presence in Ingham five years ago, their connection to the community began well before that.

“selectability’s work has always been grounded in trust and a strong commitment to ensuring people can access support they need close to home,” said Julie.

“Our work has always been about connection; listening to the community and tailoring services to local needs.

“Like all service providers in regional communities, rising costs, including the current fuel pressures, mean we need to continually review how we operate to remain sustainable.

“Over three decades, selectability has successfully navigated economic shifts, funding changes and sectorwide challenges while continuing to deliver care where it is needed most.”

Julie said selectability’s commitment to Ingham remained strong.

“We are here for the long term,” she said.

“We will continue to support wellbeing, connection and care for the Ingham community, now and into the future.”

For more information about selectability Ingham visit selectability.com.au

“We are here for the long term” says Ingham regional coordinator, Julie Ross. Photos supplied

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Celebrating Our Youth

Queensland Youth Week 2026

From 11-19 April, communities across the state will come together to celebrate Queensland Youth Week. A time dedicated to recognising the valuable contributions, achievements and voices of young people.

Here in Hinchinbrook Shire, we are proud to be surrounded by incredible young people who show kindness, resilience, leadership and courage in their everyday lives. Whether it’s supporting friends, helping family members, contributing to school or community activities, or simply showing up each day and doing their best: our young people deserve to be seen, heard and celebrated.

Youth Week is not just about acknowledging achievements, but also about recognising the challenges young people face. Today’s young people are navigating a complex world, and it’s important that as a community, we continue to create spaces where they feel valued, encouraged and empowered.

At Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre, we are committed to working alongside young people across our region through a range of services. Under the banner of the Safer Families Children’s Counselling Program, we offer a variety of supports, including our Victory Kids Program and Emerge Program, both for children and young people aged 5-18 years, with the Emerge Program designed to assist children affected by domestic and family violence. We also offer our Teen Support Program for Youth at Risk, for young people aged 12–24 years.

We provide a flexible approach, with both individual and group-based options delivered through centre-based sessions or outreach within the community.

These programs provide opportunities for young people to build social connections, develop positive coping skills and grow in confidence within an inclusive environment. By investing in our young people, we are investing in the future strength and wellbeing of our entire community.

We would also like to take this opportunity to give a special shout-out to one of our local Youth Heroes of Hinchinbrook - the Gilroy Santa Maria College Young Vinnies group.

This incredible group of young people generously prepare and deliver delicious frozen, home-cooked meals to our Centre, providing vital assistance to those in need within our community. We are so very grateful for their kindness, generosity, and the positive difference they continue to make.

If you would like to learn more about the services available for young people and families in our community, we encourage you to reach out.

Please contact Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre on 4776 1822 or email communitysupport@hcsc.org.au for more information.

Our young people are not just the future; they are an important part of our community right now. By recognising and investing in them, we help build confidence, connection and a sense of belonging that can last a lifetime.

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A series of recent reforms is reshaping how child safety is managed across Queensland, with new powers, improved information sharing and greater public access to safety tools all playing a role in strengthening protections for children.

One of the most significant updates relates to the state’s blue card system, which regulates who can work with children. Since new powers came into effect on 20 September 2025, a total of 543 blue and exemption cards have been suspended as of 28 February 2026. These changes allow authorities to take immediate action when a risk to children is identified, rather than waiting for lengthy assessment processes to conclude.

Of those suspensions, 269 individuals were stopped before they could begin employment in child-related roles, while a further 274 were already working across regulated sectors. The suspensions have impacted a wide range of industries, including disability services, health care, counselling, sport and recreation, gyms and play facilities.

Triggers for suspension can include allegations of sexual or violent behaviour involving a child, as well as other concerning conduct within child-related environments. The aim is to ensure potential risks are addressed quickly and decisively.

Reforms have also strengthened how information is shared between agencies. Updates now allow the Early Childhood Regulatory Authority to provide more detailed information to Blue Card Services, including disciplinary actions such as staff suspensions, supervision requirements or mandated training. This improved flow of information is expected to support more informed and timely decision-making.

At the same time, expanded blue card requirements are being introduced for additional industries, including entertainment, photography and beauty services. Workers and businesses in these sectors have been required to comply with the new rules by 20 March 2026.

Another major development is the introduction of Daniel’s Law, which has established Queensland’s first public child sex offender register. Since launching on 31 December 2025, the website has recorded more than 205,000 visits, highlighting strong community interest in the new tool.

The register allows parents and carers to access information in three tiers. The first provides public details of offenders who have failed to meet reporting obligations and whose whereabouts are unknown. The second allows residents to apply to view offenders living in their local area, while the third enables parents or guardians to check whether a specific individual with unsupervised access to their child is a reportable offender.

Early use of the system has already produced results. Within the first ten weeks, nine reportable offenders were identified through the highest level of search, with some now facing charges for breaching their reporting obligations. Investigations have also been launched into additional individuals identified through the system.

Safeguards are built into the register to prevent misuse, including offences targeting vigilantism or the inappropriate sharing of information.

Together, these reforms represent a broader shift towards proactive child protection. By combining stronger screening powers, better information sharing and increased community awareness, Queensland’s child safety framework is evolving to respond more quickly and effectively to potential risks.

The landmark register honours the legacy of Sunshine Coast schoolboy Daniel Morcombe, whose abduction and murder in 2003 inspired two decades of advocacy for stronger child protection laws.

Premier David Crisafulli said the Government is delivering access to vital information to help keep kids safe.

“We promised reforms to make our community safer and that is exactly what Daniel’s Law is delivering,” Premier Crisafulli said.

“We owe this to Daniel, to his family, and to every Queensland child who deserves to grow up safe.”

The Daniel Morcombe Foundation founder, and Daniel’s father, Bruce Morcombe told last night's Dance For Daniel audience their fight to protect Queensland’s kids is far from over.

“A law is a law, but a law that makes a difference is truly something that we value,” Mr Morcombe said.

“To have it named in honour of our son is truly something special because it is making a difference, it’s protecting Queensland’s kids.”

More information about Blue Card changes and Daniels Law can be found at qld.gov.au/bluecardchanges and DanielsLaw.qld.gov.au

‘Protecting Queensland's Children’ Photo sourced: www.danielslaw.qld.gov.au

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Tec-NQ House in Townsville is celebrated as one of Queensland’s premier boarding facilities, specially designed to support students enrolled in Tec-NQ's co-educational senior school program. This state-of-the-art facility accommodates up to 40 male students, offering a comprehensive boarding experience for students from across regional and remote Queensland.

The design of Tec-NQ House promotes inclusivity and social interaction, creating a nurturing and homely environment. The facility features advanced security systems, double occupancy rooms with semi-private areas, and modern indoor and outdoor communal spaces for students to relax and interact.

Tec-NQ House offers extracurricular activities, such as a half court, pool table, yarning circle, basic gym equipment, gaming console and more. Weekend activities can vary from group sports, to attending the movies or going to the beach.

For families passing through Townsville, personal and individual tours of our boarding house and senior school campus can be arranged by contacting our dedicated team on info@tecnq.com.au or (07) 4779 2199.

Tec-NQ is a Registered Training Organisation (RTO), independent senior secondary school and accredited boarding school with extensive industry networks to deliver trade-based career opportunities for North Queensland students.

Delivering Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) outcomes, Tec-NQ offers Senior School and Boarding School for Years 10 to 12, providing an alternative to traditional schooling while achieving comparable outcomes in a work-based training setting.

The school’s curriculum is designed to support ‘active’ learning, engaging students directly with professional academic and trade-qualified facilitators. With integrated work placements woven into the school timetable, Tec-NQ presents a compelling option for students seeking a distinctive educational experience that prepares them for both academic and vocational success.

For a unique senior school and boarding solution with an out-of-the-box approach, you can’t look past Tec-NQ.

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Cardwell parkrun marked a special milestone last weekend, celebrating its 8th birthday with a great turnout despite the wet weather. It was wonderful to see the community come together to celebrate how far the event has come over the years. A big thank you goes to Janet, who first started Cardwell parkrun and helped bring the event to life for the local community. Congratulations also to Jan and Terry for reaching an incredible 250 and 150 volunteer milestones respectfully.

Long-time supporters like the Ball and Clarke families continue to be a huge part of the event each week, and of course none of it would be possible without the participants who have joined in over the past eight years. And although I couldn't be there to celebrate with you all due to my directorial duties at Palm Creek this week, a special mention should go to Seabreeze Café, for hosting runners and walkers for coffee and breakfast each week, and for the amazing looking birthday cake, I bet it tasted a great as it looked!

And in Palm Creek the numbers swelled to an amazing 44 participants, bolstered by visitors and the boys from St Teresa’s College in Abergowrie, who were on the course completing their Run Army challenge. Congratulations to everyone who achieved a PB on such a hot morning, I bet those Zooper Doopers tasted extra sweet afterwards!

Parkrun Results: 14th March 2026

Palm Creek #116 – 44 participants
Fastest time: Julian Lee (18:53)
Final finisher: Steven Veltmeyer (1:00:53)
PBs: Julian Lee (18:53), Christopher Gunston (28:37), Torah Sheahan (30:39), Sean Krumin (30:49), Ben Downing (35:10), Carolyn Gunston (43:20), Danielle Scovazzi (44:14), Diane Biasi (47:34)
First-timers: Jason Barra (23:39), Ciara Dunleavy (32:34), Evie Gibson (33:50), Danielle Gibson (39:52)
Volunteers: Victoria Velton, Sandra Coco, Amanda Towner, Kelly Krumin, Steven Veltmeyer

Cardwell #378 – 21 participants
Fastest time: Jason Smith (23:31)
Final finisher: Sarah Ritchie (1:00:45)
First-timers: Thomas Webster (25:45)
Volunteers: Anita Davina, David Clarke, Jan Ferguson, Terry Curtin, Sarah Ritchie, Kerry Snell

Photos sourced from Cardwell & Palm Creek Parkrun Facebook pages

The Cassowary Coast Business Women’s Network (CCBWN) came together for a gorgeous lunch prepared by chef Marco and hosted by Ali Eberhard and team at the King Reef Resort, Kurrimine Beach on Sunday 8 March. We had a few reasons to celebrate. Firstly, it was International Women's Day - this year the IWD 2026 Give To Gain Campaign was about encouraging a mindset of generosity and collaboration - emphasising the power of reciprocity and support. When people, organisations, and communities give generously, opportunities and support for women increase. When women thrive, we all rise. The CCBWN is thriving in numbers, and we see more and more support for each other and our businesses through the connections that we are building which we hope will enable our members to thrive and rise.  

It was our Birthday – 22 years ago on 8 March 2004 the CCBWN held its first meeting to determine if this was a group that wanted to proceed. It certainly has done that, and testament to the credibility of the Network, the first President, Jen Downs, was in attendance at Sunday’s lunch.

We also wanted to celebrate our incredible growth (3 years ago we had 19 members and now we have 72).  It is exciting to see local businesses as well as people moving into the area who join the CCBWN and see our organisation as a professional group of women who can support them in their business development and build connections with.

With a mix of new and long-term members as well as guests attending, we took the opportunity to get to know more about each other and what we may have in common. In pairs, we had one on one conversations to learn more about each other, both professionally and personally, then each group shared the information they had discovered about each other. It was a fantastic way to build connections and gain a greater understanding of the people who run, or work, in our local businesses.

The next CCBWN event is planned for 21 April 2026 and will be hosted by Patrick and team at the Shanti Café, Mission Beach who will prepare some magnificent Mediterranean inspired cuisine for us. Working in small teams we will ask the question – ‘How Much Do You Know’ about the Cassowary Coast region, local businesses, the CCBWN and a little bit of general knowledge too. It will be a fun night.

Photos in order of importance-

Group Shot: Members gathered for The Cassowary Coast Business Women’s Network event on March 8. Photo supplied

Photo 1: Tracey Wilson, Jen Downs, Teresa Millwood, Ellen Jessop at the event. Photo supplied

Photo 3: Michelle Mathews, Eli Eberhard, Shari Rakic, Jade Parsonage, Gitta Yelds. Photo supplied

Photo 2: Gitta Yelds and Hannah Baird in a pair getting to know each other. Photo supplied

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Businesses across the Cassowary Coast play a vital role in shaping our region. From agriculture and trades to retail, tourism and professional services, local businesses create jobs, drive innovation and help define the character and liveability of our communities. Running a business today takes courage, resilience and leadership, and the Local Business Awards are an opportunity to recognise that effort.

If you operate a business in the Cassowary Coast, this is your chance to step forward, share your story and be recognised for the impact you are making across the region. Whether your business is based in Cardwell, Tully, Innisfail, Mission Beach or anywhere in between, the awards celebrate the people and enterprises helping our communities grow stronger together.

Businesses can nominate across a range of categories, while community members will also have the chance to show their support through the People’s Choice Award.

The awards recognise excellence, leadership and commitment across many industries, offering businesses a platform to showcase their achievements and inspire others.

Nominate your business in one or more of the following Award categories:
Outstanding Business Achievement
Excellence in Community Engagement
Professional Services Customer Excellence
Trade, Retail and Services Excellence
Leading Employer Recognition
Rising Star Business Award
Environmental Sustainability Leadership
Innovation and Technology Excellence

Caption: Running a business today takes courage, resilience and leadership, and the Local Business Awards are an opportunity to recognise that effort. Photo credit: Cassowary Coast Regional Council

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More than a thousand residents of the Cassowary Coast and surrounding regions have rallied behind Trudy Tschui’s push to deliver a safer and more resilient crossing at Banyan Creek, locally known as Whitings Crossing on Tully–Mission Beach Road.

With support from Member for Parliament for the Hinchinbrook electorate, Shane Knuth, Ms Tschui launched a petition to present the community’s concerns directly to the State Government, highlighting safety risks associated with the bridge.

“I know as a long-time resident that many people feel unsafe approaching and driving on the bridge, so let them pass that message on,” she said.

“I hope the government will listen to the people.”

Ms Tschui said the petition argues that the weight and size of modern vehicles exceed the outdated building standards of the bridge, adding the structure carries high traffic volumes each day and sits too low in a flood-prone area.

“On a good day, it’s a dangerous bridge,” she said.

“People slow as they approach the bridge if there’s oncoming traffic, thus causing cars behind to brake suddenly – this was my recent experience – but I have been told of wing mirrors being broken, and people holding their breath as they drive across it.”

Whitings Crossing provides a key link between the Bruce Highway, Tully and Mission Beach, with motorists, school and commercial buses, trucks and caravans using the bridge daily.

“I believe the community would like to see the bridge raised to restrict flooding and the bridge itself widened,” Ms Tschui said.

“Mission Beach is a popular caravan destination, and we need our visitors to feel safe and welcome as they drive to our town.”

Additional information and the E-Petition can be accessed via https://www.parliament.qld.gov.au/Work-of-the-Assembly/Petitions/Petition-Details/4393-26  until the petition closes on 23 March 2026.

CAPTION: The E-Petition argues the existing crossing at Banyan Creek is aging, narrow, flood prone and no longer fit for purpose given the current traffic volumes and vehicle types. Photo source: Facebook

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BreastScreen Queensland is set to visit Mission Beach from 24 March to 22 April, offering free breast screening for local women aged 40 and over.

The mobile screening service will be located at the Community Health Centre, 26 Wongaling Beach Road, making it easier for women in the region to access potentially life-saving early detection services. No doctor’s referral is required.

Cassowary Coast Regional Council Mayor Teresa Millwood, a breast cancer survivor herself, is encouraging eligible residents to prioritise screening.

“As a breast cancer survivor, I would encourage every person who is eligible for breast screening to take the opportunity to do it. The earlier the detection the better the outcome,” she said.

“Breast cancer is not only a woman’s disease as many men are also diagnosed with breast cancer. Do yourself a favour and get a breast screen.”

While women aged 40 and over are eligible for a free screening, those aged 50 to 74 are especially encouraged to attend, as breast screening is most effective in this age group. BreastScreen Queensland recommends women aged 50–74 have a free breast screen every two years.

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australian women, and the risk increases significantly after the age of 50. Importantly, nine out of 10 women diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history of the disease.

Screening can detect breast cancer early — often before it can be seen or felt — which means more treatment options and better health outcomes. For most women, results show no signs of cancer, providing reassurance and peace of mind.

To book an appointment or learn more, visit breastscreen.qld.gov.au or call 13 20 50.

CAPTION: The BreastScreen Queensland mobile screening service will be at the Community Health Centre from 24 March to 22 April. Photo supplied

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The QCWA are excited to share that the HomePlate Project National Survey has launched. The HomePlate Project is a national initiative led by the Maggie Beer Foundation, exploring how older people experience food, cooking and eating while living at home. By listening directly the project aims to support joy, connection and wellbeing around food as we age.

As part of this work, we are inviting older people to take part in a short national survey that explores; what’s working well with food and eating at home, what can be challenging, and what could make things better in the future.

Responses are being sought from people aged 65 and over who are living at home, across metropolitan, regional and rural Australia. The survey takes around 10 minutes to complete and is confidential, focusing on lived experience and practical ideas.

You can access the survey via the website until the 29th of March: maggiebeerfoundation.org.au/homeplateproject/

Share your experiences with food at home with this national project survey. Photo credit: QCWA

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A small library with a big heart is helping bring readers together in the Hinchinbrook community.

The Hinchinbrook Visitor Information Centre in Ingham has joined the growing network of community book exchanges through Street Library Australia, installing a Little Free Library where locals and visitors can swap and share books.

More than just a tourist stop, the centre has long served as a meeting point for travellers and residents wanting to learn more about the region. The addition of the street library has added another welcoming touch.

Kellie from Hinchinbrook Shire Council said the idea behind the initiative was to encourage connection through reading.

"We believe that sharing knowledge, encouraging curiosity, and creating moments of connection are at the heart of what a community space should offer. What has surprised and delighted us most is just how popular the library has become," she said.

"Locals regularly stop by to swap books, and tourists often tell us it’s an unexpected highlight of their visit. It has become a small but meaningful meeting point where stories are exchanged, conversations begin, and people feel welcomed into the Hinchinbrook community."

Street libraries allow people to take a book, leave a book and share the joy of reading with the wider community. Other Street Libraries in the area include Lilly Pilly Library at 1 Hawkins Street, Ingham and Moretti Street Booklovers at 17 Moretti Street, Ingham.

More information on the initiative can be found online at streetlibrary.org.au.

CAPTION:

1. The Hinchinbrook Visitor Information Centre is now part of the Street Library Australia initiative. Photo source: Street Library Australia
2. Moretti Street Booklovers is home to a large variety of genres available including childrens books. Photo source: Street Library Australia

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Sunday 8 March started off grey skies, and inclement weather. Not to be daunted, the Forrest Beach QCWA ladies were busy bringing the QCWA Hall to life ready for the serving of a sumptuous Devonshire Tea - a classic - tea, scones, jam and cream. And it was not long before guests arrived - in fact over 35 people signed in for the Sunday treat.

International Women's Day (March 8) is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women.  The day has been around for over 100 years, as have many of the issues still impacting women's advancement. Forrest Beach QCWA members marked International Women's Day by celebrating women's achievements, supporting women-focused charities like the Country Women’s Association, and giving back to the community in appreciation for its support in 2025.

The morning was certainly busy, with plates of scones rapidly disappearing as guests enjoyed the ambience. Some took the opportunity for a memorable photo or to browse through the library or to catch up on the display of the services FBQCWA offers to the community. Sincere gratitude is felt for the many donations made by satisfied customers as they left the Hall comfortably satiated.

Contributed with thanks by Beverley Hulme, branch treasurer of the QCWA Forrest Beach.

Caption: Sunday 8 March, Forrest Beach Branch QCWA held a Devonshire Tea morning for International Women’s Day. Photos supplied

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On 8 March, The Our Lady of Lourdes school community recently celebrated its first Family Mass of the year with the St Patrick’s Parish community. The Mass provided an opportunity for students, staff and families to come together, connect with the parish and celebrate their faith.

Fr John presided over the Mass, with many members of the school community attending the first school-led parish Mass for the year.

Students will also take part in Harmony Day celebrations on Friday 20 March. The day recognises and celebrates Australia’s rich cultural diversity and promotes the message that everyone belongs.

Students are invited to attend school dressed in their traditional cultural dress or wearing an orange T-shirt symbolising respect, diversity and inclusion.

The day will provide an opportunity for the school to celebrate the many cultures that make up the Our Lady of Lourdes community.

Caption Group: Our Lady Of Lourdes First Family Mass of 2026. Photo credit: Our Lady Of Lourdes

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