Queensland’s weather can change in an instant, and December’s flooding across the Hinchinbrook Shire and surrounding areas may be a sign of what’s to come this disaster season. While we can’t prevent floods, we can take steps to be better prepared and reduce their impact on our lives through understanding flood risks, warning systems, and implementing preparedness plans.
The impacts of floods vary, from positive effects like replenishing ecosystems during droughts to devastating consequences, including loss of life, property damage, and long-term recovery challenges.
In Queensland, three types of flooding occur: riverine, flash, and storm surge. Riverine flooding happens from prolonged rainfall, causing rivers to overflow, flash flooding is a rapid occurrence due to heavy rainfall in a short period, while storm surges happen when sea water is pushed inland during a cyclone.
In preparation for predicted flooding, the Hinchinbrook community can access the Hinchinbrook Shire Council’s Emergency Disaster Dashboard via disaster.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au to understand the flood risks in the area. Along with updates concerning the immediate Hinchinbrook region, locals are also able to register for alerts via the Bureau of Meteorology to be notified of up-to-date warnings.
Some useful preparation steps include creating an emergency plan, ensuring flood insurance, maintaining your property, and packing an evacuation kit. Understanding the risks and taking proactive measures can reduce the impact of floods on your family and property this disaster season.

‍

Queensland has experienced its deadliest year on the roads in 15 years, with 302 lives lost in 2024. This marks a tragic 25-person increase over 2023 and a 33-person rise compared to the five-year average. The state’s worst road toll since 2009 has prompted calls for drivers to be more vigilant, especially as the summer holiday period brings increased traffic.

Minister for Transport and Main Roads, The Honourable Brent Mickelberg, emphasised the need for caution.

“At this time of year, we know people typically spend more time on the road than usual,” Mr Mickelberg said.

“There is still no excuse to speed, lose focus, not wear a seat belt properly, or drive when you’re affected by drugs or alcohol – it’s just not worth the risk.”

The major contributing factors to road fatalities remain the Fatal Five: speeding, fatigue, distraction (including mobile phone use), incorrect seatbelt use, and drink and drug driving. Speeding continues to rise as a key factor, particularly among motorcyclists, who made up 77 of the fatalities, a 25.5% increase from the five-year average.

Young drivers aged 16 to 24, who make up 13% of the state’s licence holders, were involved in almost 30% of fatal crashes, while senior drivers accounted for 98 deaths, a 32% increase from previous years.

Regional Queensland, particularly the Southern region and North Coast, saw the highest number of fatalities, with more than 60% of the state’s fatal crashes occurring outside urban areas.

Minister Mickelberg also highlighted ongoing efforts to improve road safety, including advocating for increased federal funding to upgrade the Bruce Highway.

To access more information on road safety, visit https://streetsmarts.initiatives.qld.gov.au/.

Hinchinbrook’s smallest and rarest tern, the Little Tern, has made its seasonal return to Lucinda to raise its young, with the birds expected to stay until late January.

With only around 1,200 of these tiny terns breeding along the entire eastern seaboard, the discovery of ten nests on Lucinda Spit has captured the attention of several local and regional groups, including Birdlife Australia, Hinchinbrook Shire Council, Mungalla Rangers, and the Queensland Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation. In response, a temporary fence has been erected around the nests, which will remain in place for about three to four weeks to protect the fragile young.

These delicate birds, weighing only about an eighth of a seagull’s weight, are nesting on the sand and among spinifex plants near the water's edge. Their eggs are cleverly camouflaged in the sand, shells, and coral rubble - an effective natural defence against predators. However, this camouflage also makes it easy for vehicles, dogs, or even walkers to accidentally crush the eggs and chicks.

Lucinda's Little Terns faced a setback last year, losing all their nests to high tides during Christmas 2022 and to Cyclone Jasper in December. However, this year, hope is high as two chicks, born in late November, have already reached the flying age and can be seen on the water's edge, under the watchful care of their parents and other adult terns.

Contributed with thanks to Wetland and Coastal Birds Coordinator for Birdlife Australia, Simon Kennedy.

A face Hinchinbrook knows and loves, Sherie Hensler-Adams has joined the Life Publishing Group team with the position of Sales Account Manager for Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper!

A local through and through, Sherie has lived in Hinchinbrook for 42 years after moving to the area in her primary school days and has since married a local boy and raised a family.

Her daughter now teaches close to home as a secondary educator in Gilroy, and her son works in the mining industry. Sherie enjoys and values spending her downtime with her adult children and many pets! Along with currently pet sitting a pup for her son, Sherie’s home is a hive of activity with two dogs, two cats, and three chickens forever keeping her on her toes as well as her casual green thumb endeavours.

When Sherie isn’t wearing her Sales Account Manager hat, she enjoys spending time outdoors no matter the activity, whether its boating, fishing, jet skiing or venturing on a leisurely camping trip with her family and friends.

Sherie was the Sales Account Manager for the former Herbert River Express up until the newspaper ceased publishment in 2020, and in her eight wonderful years with the local paper, she honed her skills and discovered her passion for the position. In having the opportunity to publish the news of the region once again, Sherie was more than excited to become part of the Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper team, explaining that helping to bring the publishment to the region means the world.

“As we’re a small community, we really need a local newspaper that’s a community-based newspaper,” shared Sherie.

“It’s a great thing that there’s one here again, and the Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper is a very positive newspaper, and that’s what I like about it.”

Members of the community are more than welcome to reach out to Sherie on 0498 589 226 or via email to sherie@lifepublishinggroup.com to discuss any advertising inquires.

How lucky am I to have the first Councillor contribution column of the 2025 New Year. A great opportunity to wish everyone health and happiness for the year ahead. Last year is done and dusted and the new year is an open book full of opportunity. I believe it’s important to start the year with goals of kindness to others and faith in humanity.
My Council Portfolio is Natural Resource management, Biosecurity and Parks and Gardens, it’s interesting and I work with some great people. I’m always advocating for educating our community to be aware of threatening weeds and Biosecurity issues. Knowledge is the best tool we have in the fight against pests and diseases.
Farmers and Community members work with Council to make our home the best place it can be, we don’t always see it or know it’s happening but there are so many quiet achievers that mow grass, control invasive plants, pick up litter, water plants in front of their shops and generally just do good things for our community. To these people I say thank you, you are one of the reasons why Hinchinbrook is such a great place to live.
It’s that time of year now that everything grows, especially in the Parks and Gardens space. I know we all love the green grass, and we all get really good at mowing our lawns every four days! We have been on skeleton staff through the Christmas break because everyone deserves to have time with their family over the Holidays. The few devoted staff who have been working are doing the best they can to keep it under control. Please try to bear with us as we get back into the swing of things and make the town look great again. I’d also like to thank these staff members as it has been terribly hot, you guys are doing an amazing job!
Just a reminder to everyone that it’s coming up to that time of the year again where we need to get ready for the wet season. Hopefully we’ll have a mild season, but if we don’t, we need to be Disaster ready. Those who are new to the area or aren’t sure what to expect can access all the information from Council, please get in touch with our wonderful staff and have a look at our website.
Have a fabulous year everyone, Peace and Love to you all.

In the formative years of 1885-86, the fledgling community of Halifax undertook an enduring initiative that would leave its mark on the township for generations. 
Along Macrossan Street, a row of trees was planted. This arboreal lineup included eight Mango trees (Mangifera indica), a Weeping Fig (Ficus benjamina), and an African Mahogany (Khaya spp.).

This initiative was more than a beautification effort; it was part of a visionary public works program conceived and carried out by six pioneering settlers. These settlers played a pivotal role in fostering economic stability in Halifax —Harald Hoffensetz, August Anderssen, Austin W. Carr, Niels C. Rosendahl, John Alm, and Francis Herron.
 
 

‍

Happy New Year everyone! Welcome to 2025 and I wish you well and every success for this year.
2024 turned out to be quite a difficult year for our district in terms of our main industry in sugar. The extremely wet ground conditions early in the year, mid-year and end of year proved quite trying for all involved, resulting in not all cane being harvested and not all fallow being planted. I would like to thank all in Hinchinbrook for the champion efforts put in under the circumstances, and if the wet season is kind to us, we can look forward to a reasonable crop for the district this year.
I am looking forward to 2025 as I believe we will finally see a number of projects that we have long laboured with come to fruition. The ducks are starting to line up and environmental approvals are being considered with new realism and purpose by the State Government, which will enable projects such as the Taylors Beach Foreshore Revetment Wall, Dungeness, and all tide access and flood mitigation works throughout the district to progress. We also have a number of new projects commencing this year as part of the most recent Works for Queensland funding program including a half basketball court for Garbutt Park Ingham, revamp of the Borello Park Lucinda playground, Taylors Beach playground shade covering and the Palm Creek pump track to name a few.  I am proposing to utilise my weekly column in our fabulous new local paper, the Hinchinbrook Life, to keep you updated on progress being made. We have a lot to look forward to.
Just prior to Council closing for Christmas, it gave me immense pleasure to acknowledge the significant contribution to our district by Gian Mario Deambrogio. Mario as he is more affectionately known, has provided mechanical services to our district for over 60 continuous years at Trebonne, and there would not be many people who have not been acquainted with Mario in one manner or another. Congratulations Mario and thank you for not only being a good business to our district, but also for the countless hours of volunteer service to the then Cannossian regime of Trebonne throughout the years.

Until next week.

A New Year – A Time To Reflect And Reassess!
With a New Year commenced, now is the perfect time for business owners to reflect on the year that was and reassess the goals and ambitions for the upcoming year.  January 1 represents the halfway point of the financial year and often during this post festive season there is opportunity to ensure the business is tracking as planned or expected.  
Certainly 2024 has provided some challenges for the business community both locally and nationally, however there has also been new opportunities emerge in the broader North Queensland area, with announcements regarding major infrastructure projects commencing in the region.  
The Hinchinbrook business community has enormous skill capacity that already services the local agricultural and civil sectors. These same skills are in high demand with many regional projects and businesses in the Hinchinbrook Shire well positioned to provide services to a broader external client base.
The lifestyle that Hinchinbrook Shire offers is being discovered by a growing number of new residents and this is also a reason to be hopeful in 2025. For many years the Hinchinbrook Shire has struggled with declining population, however as the tide slowly turns to a more positive trend, this will open the door to new clients to support local businesses. The New Year provides a timely reminder to review the marketing strategy for your business, consider its current effectiveness and whether there is another audience that can be connected with and converted to new clients?  
This year Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, industry & Tourism Inc., will be exploring options for delivering workshops that will help each business reach their goals, and support owners on the pathway to success. If you haven’t already considered membership with Chamber, perhaps now is also a good time to explore the benefits of becoming a member?

The story of Trebonne Service Centre is one of dedication, perseverance, and family values, beginning with Gian Mario Deambrogio’s journey into the world of mechanics. At just 15 years old, Gian Mario began a five-year apprenticeship with Marvic Motors, owned by Mr. Mark Guazzo, known today as Ingham Machinery and Russo & Vella Machinery. During this time, he juggled working during the day and studying at night, ultimately earning the prestigious title of Queensland Apprentice of the Year, along with an all-expenses-paid trip to Melbourne.

At the age of 24, Gian Mario embarked on his own business journey, purchasing the Trebonne Mobilgas Service Centre from Angelo Romano on the 1st of December 1964. Despite the slow start - during which there wasn’t even a lawn mower in need of repair - a major flood hit the district, submerging numerous vehicles and machinery. This disaster provided the opportunity Gian Mario needed, and he quickly built a loyal customer base, offering repairs on everything from lawn mowers to large tractors and cane harvesters. The business also became known for its expertise in hydraulics and auto air conditioning.

Gian Mario’s wife, Carmel, or Millie, played a crucial role in the business, managing the administration side and supporting Gian Mario’s relentless work ethic. Together, they ran the service centre for many years, raising a family while establishing a solid reputation in the Herbert River district.

The family tradition of excellence continued when Gian Mario trained many apprentices, including his sons, David and Stephen, his cousin Steven Accatino, and his nephew Geoff Cantatore, who won a North Queensland Apprentice Award. In August 2011, Stephen and his wife Christine took over the business, with Gian Mario continuing to offer his support and guidance.

Today, Trebonne Service Centre is still going strong, approaching 61 years of serving the district. With an expanded facility and a commitment to delivering personalised service, hard work, and honesty, the business remains a cornerstone of the community, just as it was when it first opened its doors.

Peter Oakes, owner of Spic N Span Cleaning Products is celebrating over retirement after over 40 years in business and his 79th birthday, the two events marking significant milestones in both his personal and professional life.

Spic N Span Cleaning Products began as Spic N Span Car Detailing before Peter transitioned into a cleaning store, his wife Yvonne said it was a seamless transition.

As a result, he operated the car detailing business for five years, and then the current cleaning retail store for 35 years.

Yvonne says she’s extremely proud of him.

After a fulfilling over 40 years in business, Peter has decided to hand the business over under the same name to continue.

Determined to continue the much-loved name of the business, one that many people in Ingham rely on for cleaning products, Peter and Yvonne are thrilled to announce that a young couple have purchased the store along with the business name.

“I wish them all the luck in the world!” said Yvonne when asked about the new owners.

“We are so glad that this young couple bought it, they're well-known people in the town, so they will just build it up even more.”

Yvonne believes that Peter was able to stay in business so long due to his pleasant demeanour and kindness.

“Peter's a good businessman he tells people how to look after their things and he's just a very pleasant person,” she said.

New and improved agricultural levies legislation will replace the existing framework next year, making the levy system more user friendly for participants and making it easier for them to understand their obligations.
More than 50 pieces of legislation governing over 110 levies and charges – across 75 commodities and 18 bodies that receive levies – are being streamlined into five Acts and subordinate legislation.
Deputy Secretary for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Policy Matt Lowe said the new legislation would make life simpler for those interacting with it from 1 January.
“From the start of 2025, the new legislation will make obligations clearer for levy payers, collection agents and bodies that receive levies, and better support industries seeking to pursue new or change existing levies," Mr Lowe said.
“More flexible and consistent, it will benefit current and future levy system participants and help industry to get the most out of the levy system.  
“The streamlined legislation will allow primary industries to continue to invest collectively in research and development, marketing, biosecurity activities and responses, and residue testing.
“Our agricultural levy system is a long-standing, successful partnership between industry and government to facilitate industry investment in strategic activities, and the new framework will make it stronger and more effective.”
Levies are collected from farmers, producers, processors and exporters, with any proposal for new, or changes to existing, levies requiring majority agreement among levy payers.
In 2023-24, the Research and Development Corporations, Animal Health Australia, Plant Health Australia and the National Residue Survey received just over $600 million in levy payments.
The Australian Government contributed an additional $470 million in matching funding for research and development activities. 

‍

The Queensland Government’s extension of the application deadline for Extraordinary Disaster Assistance Recovery Grants has provided a crucial lifeline for Far North Queensland’s primary producers recovering from the widespread devastation caused by ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper. Applications will now remain open until 30 June 2025, allowing impacted growers and farmers the time they need to rebuild their lives and operations after the disaster struck in December 2023.
Cyclone Jasper brought torrential rainfall and severe flooding, causing extensive damage to homes, farms, and infrastructure across regions including Cairns, Cassowary Coast, Cook, Douglas, Hinchinbrook, Mareeba, and the Tablelands. Many primary producers are still grappling with the aftermath, with some facing the harsh reality of delayed recovery efforts due to contractor shortages, heavy rain, and the sheer scale of work required to repair their livelihoods.
Eligible producers can access grants of up to $75,000 through the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA). These funds can be used for essential recovery needs such as pasture rehabilitation, replacing livestock, repairing equipment, and rebuilding critical infrastructure. In addition to these grants, other support measures are available, including the Rural Landholder Recovery Grant Scheme, Disaster Assistance Loans, and freight subsidies.
CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan welcomed the government’s decision, emphasising the importance of giving farmers adequate time to recover.
“This extension is a practical response to the realities faced by growers across Far North Queensland, where contractors are in extremely short supply.
“It will give farming communities the breathing room they need to complete vital recovery works and secure funding that will help them move forward after such a challenging time,” he said.
Mr Galligan also acknowledged the emotional and financial strain on communities, particularly in areas like Mossman, where the closure of the local mill has added further uncertainty to an already precarious situation.
“This isn’t just about financial assistance,” Mr Galligan said.
“It’s about recognising the extraordinary resilience of growers and regional communities, and ensuring they have the resources and support needed to rebuild stronger and more sustainably for the future.”
Queensland Senator Anita Green echoed these sentiments, acknowledging the resilience of farmers and the challenges they face.
“Recovery from disasters is never easy, and primary producers face an enormous challenge rebounding from the effects of TC Jasper while still producing the food for our tables.
“Extending the deadline to apply for these grants underlines our commitment to supporting Far North Queensland’s amazing agriculture sector,” she said.
Queensland Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett expressed his personal understanding of the challenges, saying, “As a producer myself, I know firsthand the effect of natural disasters on operations.
“I know how important these grants are to producers, and I am proud to have secured this vital extension.”
Queensland Minister for Fire, Disaster Recovery and Volunteers Ann Leahy also highlighted the necessity of the extension, noting, “Extending the deadline to apply for Extraordinary Recovery Grants makes sense when primary producers are time-poor and have had trouble getting back on their feet. I am delighted we have been able to help support our farmers through this difficult period.”
The grants program, funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, has been instrumental in helping primary producers across Far North Queensland recover. However, heavy rain in recent weeks has brought new challenges, underscoring the urgency of rebuilding resilience before future disasters strike.
CANEGROWERS encourages all eligible growers to take advantage of the extended application period.
For more information and to apply, visit the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority website at qrida.qld.gov.au.

IN BRIEF
   • The closing date for Extraordinary Disaster Assistance Recovery Grants has been extended for primary producers impacted by ex-Tropical Cyclone (TC) Jasper.
   • Primary producers now have until 30 June 2025 to apply for the assistance.
   • The extension recognises the difficulties primary producers continue to face as they recover from TC Jasper.

‍

CANEGROWERS has launched the 2024 Sugarcane Transport Load Restraint Guide, an essential tool created in partnership with the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR). 

This industry-specific guide aims to enhance road transport safety and streamline compliance for sugarcane growers and transport operators.

The new resource addresses a long-standing need for updated and practical advice tailored to the sugarcane industry. It equips operators with the knowledge to ensure safer, more efficient transport practices.

CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens praised the initiative, emphasising its role in improving safety and providing clear guidance for growers and contract harvesters navigating transport challenges.
 
“This guide not only helps growers understand their legal responsibilities but also promotes safe and efficient transport practices,” Mr Menkens said. 
 
“It reflects CANEGROWERS’ dedication to supporting growers in ways that often go unnoticed. As a grower-led organisation we’re committed to tackling both the day-to-day challenges faced by growers as well as the broader, industry-wide issues." 
 
The guide focuses on key aspects of the Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL), as well as load restraint methods and chain of responsibility obligations. 
 
With the NHVR now overseeing the delivery of heavy vehicle regulatory activities in Queensland, the guide serves as a practical and accessible reference for all operators in the transport chain.
 
"Safety is the number one priority of the NHVR, and we are committed to continually working with industry to improve safety outcomes for all road users,” NHVR’s Northern Region Director Kelli Ready said.
 
“We support and congratulate CANEGROWERS on this important safety initiative, and we were pleased our dedicated team were able to assist.
 
“Our work with CANEGROWERS following the April transition of heavy vehicles regulatory services in Queensland is further evidence of our commitment to working collaboratively with industry to improve safety and raise HVNL awareness.”
 
CANEGROWERS encourages all growers and cane transport operators to adopt the guide to improve safety practices and ensure compliance.
 
"By embracing the 2024 Sugarcane Transport Load Restraint Guide, we can collectively reduce risks and uphold the high standards that define our industry," Mr Menkens added.
  
To access the 2024 Sugarcane Transport Load Restraint Guide, visit bit.ly/CaneTransport

Nestled in a prime beachside location, this stunning property offers breathtaking ocean views, refreshing cool breezes, and the ultimate lifestyle of relaxation and outdoor living.  Whether you're looking for a holiday home, a permanent residence, or an investment property, this is the opportunity you've been waiting for.
 
The property features diverse accommodation options with four one-bedroom units, one two-bedroom unit and one spacious three-bedroom unit.
 
It has a freshly painted exterior and is move-in ready.
 
The property is being sold fully furnished, with all chattels included in the sale making it ideal for immediate occupancy or rental.
 
It has outdoor appeal at its best with a sparkling pool for endless enjoyment and newly replanted tropical gardens, perfect for relaxing and entertaining.
 
Lifestyle benefits include waking up to the sound of the waves and enjoying cool ocean breezes and watching spectacular sunrises.  This property is designed for those who want to embrace a coastal lifestyle.
 
The property has endless opportunities whether you’re seeking a family retreat, looking to capitalise on a lucrative rental market or wanting a permanent residence in paradise. This property ticks all the boxes!
 
Don’t miss out - opportunities like this are rare.  Buy location, a beachside gem with endless possibilities. Own a piece of paradise!
 
The property will be Open For Inspection on Saturday, 1st February, 2025, 1.00 - 2.00 p.m.
 
It will then go to Auction on Friday, 14th February, 2025 at 12 noon at Felix Reitano's Auction Room at 109 Cartwright Street, Ingham. Get ready to "Fall in Love with Forrest Beach!"
 
Offers will be considered prior to the Auction date.
 
Contact us today to arrange a private viewing and take the first step toward your dream lifestyle!
 
For further details on the property, or to arrange another inspection at anytime contact the action team at Felix Reitano Real Estate!   They can be contacted at their office at 109 Cartwright Street, Ingham or on 4776 5007 or Peter on 0407 167 108, or Felix on 0417 641 830.

Contributed with thanks to Peter Reitano

Feeling sluggish after Christmas? Feeling the weight of the holiday season and ready for a change? You are not the first or the last. As we enter 2025 many of us our turning our thoughts to fresh starts and healthier lifestyles. Here are the ten ways you can confidently start the new year:
   1. Get organised and set reasonable and specific goals
Organise yourself, by setting goals that you will stick to, decide what you want to improve and how you are going to achieve this.
   2. Pick a start date
Pick a day that you want to start by, and ensure to stick to it.
   3. Create a Plan
After setting your goal(s), break it down into steps to understand precisely what you need to do to reach your desired outcome.
   4. List the new skills you will need
To advance in your career or stay competitive in your business, you'll likely need to acquire new skills. Identify what you need to learn this year and create a plan to master these skills.
   5. Be sure your goals are measurable
Make sure your goals are measurable—what gets measured gets accomplished. Track your progress and celebrate your achievements along the way.
   6. Talk about your goals

Share your plans with friends, family, and trusted colleagues so they can offer their support.

   7. Make course corrections if necessary
If you realize you're moving in the wrong direction, don't be afraid to make adjustments. Goals aren't set in stone, and it's perfectly fine to revise them as needed.

   8. Ask for Help
If you are struggling to stick to your goals, there is no shame in asking others for help or support.
   9. Avoid repeating past failure
If you're not getting the results you're aiming for, repeating the same actions won't change the outcome. Try taking a different approach instead.
   10. Schedule time for yourself
Set aside dedicated time on your calendar to disconnect and focus without distractions. Be sure to also maintain a healthy balance between your work and personal life.