Queenslanders Urged To Stick To Science As Melanoma Rates Remain Highest Worldwide Health experts are urging Queenslanders to rely on proven medical advice, not social media myths, when it comes to sun safety, as the state continues to record the highest melanoma rates in the world. Dermatologist Associate Professor Erin McMeniman, from Princess Alexandra Hospital and the University of Queensland’s School of Medicine, says misinformation about sunscreen is spreading online at an alarming rate. “Particularly in Queensland, most people receive enough sun exposure to produce vitamin D simply through their daily incidental activities, such as hanging out the washing or checking the letterbox,” she said. She warns that unprotected sun exposure remains the leading cause of melanoma and other skin cancers, with 4,085 Queenslanders diagnosed in 2021 and 385 losing their lives. “Skin damage can occur after 10 minutes exposure when the UV index is at 3 or above. In Queensland, the UV index is 3 or above all year round, even in winter,” she said. In recent weeks, UV levels have reached 14 and 15, classified as “extreme”, further emphasising the need for regular sun protection. Despite these well-established risks, a range of myths persist online, including claims that sunscreen causes cancer, that tans prevent sunburn, or that darker-skinned people cannot get skin cancer. Assoc Prof McMeniman says these claims are not only false, but dangerous. “Unprotected sun exposure has been proven to cause cancer.” She adds that sunscreen found in make-up is rarely strong enough to provide real protection. “You need SPF30 or higher rating to be protected against sun exposure,” she said. “If it’s not SPF30 or above, you should be wearing additional sunscreen under your makeup when you’re in the sun for an extended period.” Assoc Prof McMeniman says one of the biggest concerns is the rising number of Queensland children experiencing sunburn, with nearly half reporting at least one burn in the past year. “Sunburn in childhood, frequent sunburn and sunburn that blisters the skin all increase a person’s susceptibility to UV-related cancers,” she said. Adults over 60 remain the most at-risk group due to limited sun safety education when they were young. However, she says younger generations are benefiting from decades of awareness campaigns, with melanoma rates now slightly declining in those under 40. As Queensland heads into another Summer of intense UV levels, the message from experts remains clear: slip, slop, slap and slide, every day.
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There’s nothing quite like the taste of homegrown bushtucker. Bringing native Australian plants into your garden is a delicious way to connect with the land and enjoy fresh, seasonal flavours straight from your backyard. Here are four native plants that are easy to grow and a joy to harvest. Riberry Riberry, also known as lilly pilly, is a versatile shrub or small tree that brightens the garden with its glossy foliage and colourful fruit. The berries have a unique, spicy flavour with hints of clove and cinnamon, making them ideal for jams, sauces, or desserts. It's a magnet for birds and pollinators, so while you’re enjoying the fruits, your garden is also supporting local wildlife. Kangaroo Apple Kangaroo apple is a striking shrub that offers a distinct visual interest to the garden, with vibrant purple flowers and sweet, tangy fruit. The berries are delicious when fully ripe and can be enjoyed fresh or in creative dishes such as salads or preserves. Lemon Myrtle Lemon myrtle is a fragrant, evergreen plant prized for its intensely citrus-scented leaves. Perfect for teas, marinades, desserts, or sauces, this rainforest native is both ornamental and highly functional. It can be pruned to a manageable size, making it suitable for gardens of any scale. Lemon myrtle’s year-round leaves and aromatic qualities make it a must-have for any bush-tucker garden. Midyim Berry The midyim berry, or midgen berry, is a low-growing shrub with sweet, tangy berries that resemble blueberries. Its copper-toned new growth adds aesthetic charm, and the fruit is perfect for jams, sauces, or simply eating fresh. It also supports pollinators and provides food for native wildlife, making it an excellent choice for gardeners who want to cultivate a productive and ecologically friendly space. Why Grow Bushtucker? Native edible plants are naturally adapted to Australian soils and climates, often requiring less water and maintenance than exotic alternatives. They support biodiversity, offering food and habitat for birds, insects, and other wildlife. And, of course, they taste incredible, fresh, unique, and full of nutrients. A true taste of Australian bush bliss.
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Rachel Cauchis' Newest Optometrist Joining the team around the start of May, the practice’s newest optometrist has quickly settled into his role and has now been here for around seven months. When asked how he is finding it, he laughed, saying how much he enjoyed the office culture, showing he has meshed well with the other optometrists and enjoys the light-hearted environment of the workplace. Originally from Sydney, he studied optometry at the University of New South Wales. His move north came after a rural placement where he was encouraged to get in touch. After a phone call with Travis Cauchi the practice manager and co-owner, he decided to take a chance, packed everything up and thought, “Why not give it a go?” In practice, one of his favourite pieces of equipment is the slit lamp, which gives a magnified 3D view of the interior structures of the eye and allows him to closely examine eye anatomy and detect potential eye disease. He has a strong interest in picking up and managing eye disease, particularly in a regional setting where access to specialist care can be limited. He enjoys working closely with visiting ophthalmologists and doing his best to manage patients locally when travel is difficult. He sees professional development as something that happens every day, learning through experience and exposure to a wide variety of cases. While most of his patients are elderly, they are also his favourites. He enjoys their life stories, their humour and the genuine appreciation they show, which he finds incredibly rewarding. Outside of work, he enjoys exploring local waterfalls, travelling to Cairns and Townsville, and playing basketball with the local community. He is rarely without his film camera and considers himself more of a beach person, happy to sit by the water for hours.
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The Queensland Government has delivered its first major update to crocodile management in almost a decade. The new plan prioritises community safety, with increased patrols and an expansion of removal zones. It represents a commonsense approach to crocodile management. The Government’s Queensland Crocodile Management Plan puts human safety first and was developed with feedback from communities in North and Far North Queensland, including Ingham. The plan will implement increased crocodile management measures, including more patrols in high-risk areas and expanded removal zones. This evidence-based strategy demonstrates the Government’s commitment to listening to local communities and has been shaped by expert recommendations and extensive scientific research. Key changes for Ingham: Tyto Wetlands in Ingham to be upgraded to an Active Removal Zone, with the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service to undertake proactive patrols of this area and any crocodile found to be removed. Regional communities will continue to be consulted on the plan, with a designated four-week annual consultation period and updates made on a rolling basis. A mandatory review will be conducted every five years to ensure the plan continues to reflect the needs of the communities it impacts. The Government will also continue to remove crocodiles from the wild that pose a threat to public safety. Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa said the people of his electorate voted for change, and he was proud to deliver it in his first week as local Member. “Hinchinbrook now has a seat at the government table and work has already begun to deliver the fresh start we promised – starting with a new crocodile management plan that puts the safety of people first in Ingham,” Mr Chiesa said. “Upgrading Tyto Wetlands to an Active Removal Zone is the commonsense approach that’s needed and has been lacking for far too long under the former Government.” Mayor of Hinchinbrook regional council, Ramon Jayo, said it was a practical step to protect the area but to remain Crocwise. "TYTO Wetlands and the surrounding precinct remain one of our most popular destinations. While crocodiles are a natural part of life in North Queensland, proactive management is essential to keep visitors safe. Recent changes by the Queensland Government will allow for increased patrols and the targeted removal of crocodiles that pose a risk to the community. Crocodiles are part of our environment, so staying Crocwise is about using common sense—be alert near waterways, keep your distance, and never take chances."
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If you’re a mother feeling isolated, overwhelmed, or just in need of a safe space to connect, then Mummy’s Matter might be exactly what you’ve been looking for. Based at the local community support centre in Ingham, and run in a warm, welcoming environment, Mummy’s Matter is a judgement-free group designed specifically for mums who may be feeling vulnerable, socially isolated, or who are experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, postnatal depression. It also welcomes expectant mothers who feel they may be at risk of these challenges.
This group is not only about support, though that’s at its heart, it’s really all about connection, understanding, and creating a sense of belonging. Mummy’s Matter provides a friendly and positive space where you’ll be met with empathy, not judgement. Whether you're navigating the ups and downs of new motherhood or just need a listening ear, this is a safe space where you're never alone.
Led by a community support worker from the lovely HCSC team, the sessions take a community-based approach, meaning you’ll be surrounded by others who understand, in a space that encourages openness, trust, and healing. Best of all, under school-aged children are welcome to attend with their mums, so there’s no need to find a carer in order to take part.
If you, or someone you know, could benefit from this supportive space, don’t hesitate to reach out. Call Shannen on 4776 1822 for more information, as motherhood doesn’t have to be a lonely journey. Mummy’s Matter is here to walk alongside you.
The Canegrower's Link2Country Expo could not have been better! An attendance of 1,533 people was recorded over the course of the action-packed weekend, with event organisers praising the community, it’s amazing team, volunteers and generous sponsors for making the incredible extravaganza possible.
Held on the 23rd and 24th of May at the Ingham Showgrounds, the event was created to connect students, jobseekers, farmers, travellers and businesses together in celebration of the agricultural industry’s enduring strength within the Hinchinbrook Shire.
Created on the pillars of education, entertainment and encouragement, the expo hosted a dynamic Agri Life Skills Program to provide students with a genuine, hands-on experience of what its like to work within the agricultural industry through establishing connections with local businesses and opening doors to future career opportunities. In anticipation of what the weekend would entail, organisers hoped to reach 500 students, however officials have excitingly confirmed an incredible 872 students participated in the program!
“That’s 872 opportunities to kick start a career in ag, which is amazing,” shared Link2Country online.
“A heartfelt thank you to everyone who made it possible – from the schools and supervisors to our amazing volunteers and industry experts – your support helped bring our vision to life.”
119 businesses were also involved in the two-day long event, hosting excellent displays, and interactive activities to provide attendees with a true taste of agriculture.
“To all the businesses who took the time and effort to attend our first-ever event, thank you as your belief in our vision made it possible, and we’re so grateful we got to share this experience with you - whether it was via sponsorship, having a stall or in-kind support, thank you.”
With the festivities wrapped up, event organisers have begun looking towards the future, and have kindly asked attendees to share their thoughts, feelings and opinions on 2025’s event via an online feedback form available at www.link2country.com.au.
“New events are always a challenge, and we know we’re not perfect – your feedback is so important to help us learn, grow and make future events event better.”
Lane Pizzi might be a first-time reader of the Hinchinbrook newspaper, but he’s already proven he’s got what it takes to Catch Colin! At just 8 years old, Lane gave our sneaky croc a real run for his money, spotting him in 20 minutes flat.
With a keen eye sharpened by a love of fishing and the great outdoors, Lane is no stranger to tracking things down. Whether he's reeling in fish, exploring outside or racing to victory (like he did in both of his recent cross-country wins), Lane is clearly someone who doesn’t give up easily.
Although this was Lane’s first time flipping through the paper, it definitely won’t be his last. While he doesn’t have a favourite section yet, he certainly enjoyed the challenge of finding Colin. His top advice? Colin needs to up his game and make it really hard next time.
A big thanks to Lane’s nanny for helping him submit his entry and sending in the photo, and of course, a huge congratulations to Lane for catching Colin.
Special shout-out to 2nd snapper Rachele Lazzaroni, who also found Colin but just wasn't quick enough this time!
Well done, Lane! I'm heading back to the swamp to rethink my hiding strategy... until next time, later 'gators!
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I’m grateful to once again share a few words in the wonderful Hinchinbrook Life.
Reflecting on the month of May, what a vibrant and eventful time it was across our beautiful region! From Link2Country to local fishing competitions, Playtime at Hinchinbrook Library in TYTO, Tea and Trivia, Find Your Futures, Theatre performances at the Shire Hall, and our heartwarming Baby Welcoming Ceremony. May certainly reminded us of how active, inclusive, and special our community truly is.
June promises just as much excitement in our slice of paradise. If you're visiting Hinchinbrook during the winter months, let me extend a very warm welcome – we’re delighted to have you here!
This month, various markets will be popping up across our district – check in with your local Progress Association for details on events happening in our glorious beaches, parks, and town centres.
One major highlight is Tasman Turtle’s Community Fun Picnic Day on Saturday, 14 June 2025, held in at the beautiful TYTO Parklands off Macrossan Avenue. There will be plenty of stalls and fun for the whole family – it’s not to be missed!
A quick reminder that the Hinchinbrook Aquatic Centre is now operating under its winter opening hours. You can contact the centre directly or visit their social media pages for the latest updates.
Also, with the annual cane harvesting season kicking off this month, please be extra cautious on our roads. Keep an eye out for cane trains and flashing lights at Wilmar rail crossings to ensure everyone stays safe.
Lastly, I want to take a moment to acknowledge those who may still be feeling the impact of February’s flooding event. Please know you're not alone. The Recovery Team is still helping with referrals, and the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre along with our local NDIS providers, are available to assist with any ongoing needs. If you’re unsure where to find these services, don’t hesitate to contact Council on 4776 4600 or drop into the Council office and our friendly staff are here to help.
Let’s continue supporting one another and celebrating all that makes Hinchinbrook such a wonderful place to live and visit.
Since opening its doors full-time in Ingham 2016, Performance Physio Group in Ingham has become a cornerstone of physiotherapy care for the Hinchinbrook community. The clinic provides a broad range of services, from musculoskeletal treatment and sports injury management to aged care. With a strong focus on active rehabilitation and preventative care, their team works closely with patients to support recovery, improve mobility, and enhance quality of life.
Led by Director and Senior Physiotherapist Mitchell Seri, who grew up in Ingham, along with physiotherapists Sonya Bell and Jacob Spiteri, the clinic continues to evolve and expand its services to suit the needs of the local population. Whether it's post-operative orthopaedic rehabilitation, workplace injury management, or exercise physiology, Performance Physio Group Ingham offers tailored treatment options across all ages and fitness levels.
A standout area of development at the clinic is women’s health support with specialist Sonya Bell. Many women experience conditions such as stress incontinence, pelvic pain, or symptoms following childbirth or menopause, yet may not seek treatment. Performance Physio Group Ingham is working to change that. Their physiotherapy services in this area aim to support women dealing with urinary urgency, bladder and bowel dysfunction, vaginal discomfort, and pelvic organ prolapse, among other concerns. By addressing these sensitive but common issues, the clinic empowers women to regain confidence and comfort in their daily lives.
Additional specialised services include core strengthening (drawing on Pilates principles), and the clinic is also registered to provide support under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).
Performance Physio Group Ingham is committed to providing professional, personalised care to help every patient live a more active and fulfilling life. Their team remains up to date with the latest treatments and best practices in the field, ensuring residents have access to quality physiotherapy close to home.
Contact them today by phone on 07 4776 0355 or stop by and make an appointment at 82 Cartwright Street, Ingham. Their hours are Monday to Thursday: 8am – 5pm, Friday 8am – 11.30am.
By Simon Hood, Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing
It’s great to see the 2025 production season off to an early start, with crushing under way in the Burdekin and Plane Creek regions, and the Herbert commencing this week. The weather continues to cooperate, and we hope that remains the case so all regions can get sugar into the sheds.
The #11 sugar contract continues to trend lower, with little change in the global surplus production forecast. The recent UNICA report for the first half of May 2025 showed Brazilian harvest progress catching up, though it remains 20% behind the same period last year.
Cane tonnes and sugar mix have increased, but Total Recoverable Sugar (CCS) remains low. The report aligned with market expectations. However, a 5.6% drop in gasoline prices by Petrobras halted a rally, as ethanol parity fell below 15 USc/lb.
We are forecasting a small global surplus for the 2025–26 season, mainly due to another large Brazilian crop expected. Indian production also looks strong, supported by an early monsoon, with forecasts of 32.5 million tonnes for 2025–26, up from 26 million in 2024–25. In Thailand, weak cassava prices are likely to result in another bumper crop, reinforcing export competition.
Our 2025 Season Commencement of Crush Pool reports were released last week. Notably, the Allocation Account forecast is significantly lower than last year due to a drop in physical premiums. This reflects increased Thai production impacting our sales into traditional Asian markets.
Additionally, the US Quota estimate has been reduced for both the 2024 and 2025 seasons, with import tariffs now factored in. It’s still early in the season, but growers should be aware that the strong physical premiums of recent years are under threat.
Across the regions, we’ve been connecting with growers at events such as the inaugural Link2Country Expo in Ingham, and the Sweet Days, Hot Nights Festival and Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships in the Burdekin.
Our Burdekin Relationship Manager, Fiona Villis, presented the Under 35 Category awards at the Cane Cutting Championships, proudly sponsored by Wilmar Sugar and Renewables.
We all know it’s the people who make Queensland truly legendary. And when disaster strikes, it’s often the quiet heroes who rise to the challenge without fanfare or fuss. Carina Chesson is one of those heroes. Recognised as one of this year’s Queensland Day's five Local Legends, Carina showed what it means to step up for your community when it needs you most. From heart to hand, her actions during the devastating February floods in Ingham proved that greatness lives in compassion, grit and relentless care.
Recognising Carina Chesson A Queensland Day Local Legend
Premier David Crisafulli recognised Carina Chesson as 'a teacher who was a lifeline for her community during the Ingham floods,' as when historic flooding hit Hinchinbrook in early 2025, Carina became a community powerhouse. Turning her own home into a hub of action and care, and through the 'TRAVEL, TOURISM & Flood CHATTER BOX – Hinchinbrook & Ingham' Facebook page, she kept thousands updated with real-time flood information, donation drop-off points, fuel alerts, road closures, and rescue contacts.
Working with SES and Defence Force crews, Carina ferried food and supplies, helped locate safe accommodation for stranded families, and coordinated care for the lost and isolated. She handed out essentials, tracked down urgent items, performed welfare checks, and lifted up the spirits and actions of her fellow volunteers. She also helped notify pet owners of stranded animals and made sure families knew where to go and what services were still operating.
Her steady, loving message was always: “Please be patient. Please be kind.”
“I helped ferry food for the police and the unsung heroes; the delivery truck drivers who were the true heroes collecting food, fuel, and generators non-stop for 7 days through torrential downpours. I made sure they were fed and had hot drinks to sustain them also,” Carina said.
“With so much trauma at the disaster centre at my place-of-work the cyclone shelter (Ingham State High School’s auditorium), to assisting everyone there, whilst maintaining constant checking in on the elderly around town whose children could not check on them, themselves. Lots had to be done, and you have to soldier on and do it.”
“Having this recognition is extremely humbling and even embarrassing, as there were hundreds of others helping out as well, throughout the whole Hinchinbrook Shire."
Amid all this, Carina also became a grandmother for the first time, celebrating the arrival of her granddaughter even as she cared for so many others.
Whether she was making hot drinks for delivery drivers, helping people fill out recovery paperwork, cooking, cleaning and comforting, running her veranda like a laundry, and never asking others to do what she wouldn’t, or just relaying updates in moments of chaos, Carina showed resilience, empathy and the true spirit of a Queensland legend.
Tour de Cure Australia has recently completed another impressive journey to continue raising much needed funds in support of cancer research – reaffirming the organisation's mission statement, “we won’t stop until cancer does” once again.
Over the course of a week extending from the 30th of May to the 6th of June, Tour de Cure’s Signature Tour cycled from Airle Beach to Port Douglas, covering 1184kms and raising valuable funds for cancer research, support programs and prevention initiatives.
“We’re more than a group of cyclists – we’re riding to make a difference as every kilometre supports cancer services in the very communities we ride through as well as funds scientific cancer research breakthroughs,” shared the organisation online.
After making many meaningful contributions along the eastern coastline, the inspirational group of dedicated cyclists changed the lives of many within the Hinchinbrook Shire on the 2nd of June after delivering an overwhelming grant to Ingham Health Service totalling $10,000.
Met with smiles, tears and powerful stories, the group were empowered to continue their mission, and on day five, the group rode through the heart of Far North Queensland after enjoying a beautiful breakfast with plenty of locals in the heart of Ingham.
Riding on, Tour de Cure’s Signature Tour presented Blue Care Tully Community Centre with a $10,000 grant towards its palliative care services and delivered life-changing messages of prevention to students at St Peter’s, Tully State School, Macknade, Cardwell and El Arish Primary Schools.
As the Tour de Cure’s Signature Tour drew to an emotional close last Friday, many were touched by the dedication of all the cyclists involved, praising them for the monumental journey they had completed.
“We don’t just ride for those who survive, we ride for those we’ve lost, and now we ride for those we want to help, and we ride to find a cure,” shared one of the Tour de Cure’s Signature Tour’s cyclists.
Bull Arab X
Vivacious Vixen is a bundle of joy just waiting to bring some serious sparkle to the right home. This gorgeous girl has been in care for over 500 days and is bursting with love, loyalty and playful spirit. With a big, beaming smile and a tail that never stops wagging, Vixen thrives on long daily runs, a spacious yard and plenty of attention from her people.
While she loves to stretch her legs and let loose on outdoor adventures, Vixen also treasures the quiet moments like cooling off beside you after a run or soaking up some snuggles on the lounge. She’s a determined and intelligent girl who picks up new tricks quickly and enjoys engaging in playful, expressive conversations through barks and body language.
Due to her energy and enthusiasm, Vixen would do best in a home without young children. She requires secure 6ft fencing and a calm, consistent environment with room to roam. She may be able to live with another dog after very slow introductions, but she hasn’t been tested with cats.
If you're ready for a companion full of heart, happiness and high spirits, Vixen just might be the perfect match for you!
Included in adoption fee: Desexed, microchipped, vaccinated, flea/tick/intestinal worm treated, and on ProHeart.
Interested in adopting Vixen?
To meet Vixen, fill in an inquiry form at: www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms
Or contact Angel-Paws Dog & Cat Rescue: 07 4420 3276
Adoption: $300
DOB: 12/07/2023 - 2 years
Sex: Female
Dogs: Very slow introduction
Cats: Untested
Children: Older kids only
Fences: 6ft
The 98th annual Feast of St Anthony brought joy, tradition and plenty of good food to Bemerside on Sunday, 8th June, as locals gathered for one of the Hinchinbrook region’s most cherished community celebrations.
The day began with a reverent Celebration of Mass, led by the Parish Priest, setting a spiritual tone for the event. As the little church's bells quietened, the celebration flowed into an afternoon of festivity, family and fellowship.
Food stalls were a major drawcard, with the scent of BBQ, fish and chips, fresh sandwiches, and sweet treats drifting through the air. And yes, many, many cannoli were enjoyed with laughter and coffee under shady marquees!
A heartfelt Procession and Rosary were held, drawing families together for prayer and reflection, followed by the Blessing of Children and Distribution of St Anthony’s Bread, a truly symbolic moment that continues to hold deep meaning for many in the community.
Local favourite Anthony Fracchia provided a lively soundtrack for the day with some clapping and dancing along, while the 500 Club, monster raffle, bottle stall, bar and a jumping castle kept spirits high and children entertained.
Now nearly a century strong, the Feast of St Anthony remains a treasured expression of faith and community in the heart of Bemerside.
Find the social pics here: https://tinyurl.com/26dmqezc
I was very pleased for the opportunity to attend our State Emergency Services headquarters in Menzies Street, Ingham last Tuesday to witness an incredible donation by Ergon, Energex and Powerlink of much-needed power equipment to our local SES units.
The donations included all modern appliances essential to our volunteers for undertaking their work in helping out our community in times of trouble—such as chainsaws, portable batteries, and other vital devices like blowers and heat guns.
The irony of the day was that all of the pertinent equipment donated was battery-powered, just showing how versatile, easy to use, and convenient battery-powered devices have become in our modern society. However, as was pointed out, batteries are good—very welcome and handy—but they still need to be charged from mains power somewhere.
On behalf of our SES units and our community, thank you very much to Ergon, Energex and Powerlink for your generosity. Our SES volunteers do a lot of heavy lifting and hard work in protecting and supporting our community, and every bit of equipment that can make life that little bit easier and lessen that load is appreciated.
Whilst on Ergon, I would like to take this opportunity to clarify one misnomer that continues to circulate in our community — and that is the belief that mains power into our district is restricted to, and only through, the Ingham substation.
The rhetoric is that if Ergon had other options in the electricity network, then the loss of power via the Ingham substation would not have been as bad as we all, unfortunately, experienced.
The fact is that Ergon does have the capacity to bypass the Ingham substation to supply the rural areas of our district. But unfortunately, that powerline was impacted by the disruptions that occurred at Ollera Creek, when power poles — as well as the bridge itself — were washed away.
I am extremely thankful for the effort of Ergon and all staff for getting the job done as quickly as they in fact did, given the extent of damage sustained to the network.
Rebecca Bornstein is a highly qualified and dedicated optometrist, committed to providing tailored, evidence-based care to every patient she sees. She holds a Bachelor of Vision Science with Distinction and a Master of Optometry from Deakin University and is endorsed to prescribe ocular therapeutics.
Although initially interested in nutrition, Rebecca was drawn to optometry after exploring a wide range of healthcare professions. saying that optometry ticked every box for her as a career that offered continual learning, a strong clinical focus, and good work-life balance.
Her clinical interests include paediatric eye care, glaucoma management, anterior eye conditions, and dry eye disease. These areas are particularly relevant in the Ingham area, where dry eye is prevalent among the ageing population. Rebecca explained that the regional location has provided the perfect opportunity with its many complicated and challenging patients, for her to apply her skills while continuing to learn.
Rebecca joined the Rachel Cauchi Optometrist's team with enthusiasm, saying "I wanted to be clinically challenged, mentally challenged. I came and met the team, and I just felt like we would be a good fit, and it has been so wonderful."
Her approach to patient care is full of empathy and preparation, particularly when working with children or nervous adults. “I try to relate to them, to be present with them, and if it's kids, to make them laugh and enjoy the process." She always has a strategy and a plan ready before the patients walk in, tailor-made to each one.
Rebecca encourages anyone who has not had an eye test recently to book an appointment, even if they are not experiencing symptoms. “Routine eye checks can detect issues that may not yet be noticeable,” she advises. “It’s an important part of overall health care, even if you aren't experiencing any symptoms," and advises getting checked every two years for those under 65 and every year if over 65.
Outside of work, Rebecca enjoys spending time in nature with her partner, cooking, and playing guitar. One of her favourite local spots is the Cardwell Jetty, as she never tires of the views.
So far in 2025, the dedicated volunteers of the Cardwell RSL Sub Branch have achieved something truly inspiring. Through the humble but much-loved Sunday BBQ/Buffet lunches, this small team, made up largely of local pensioners, has already raised and donated an incredible $10,000 to support local schools, the Coast Guard, the UFO Festival, and other not-for-profit groups.
It’s a remarkable result considering the group’s main source of income is their weekly $10 lunches, served with a warm smile and a generous helping of community spirit at 36 Roma Street. The buffet may be modestly priced, but the quality and variety, particularly the salads, are known to impress even the fussiest of diners.
In previous years, the Sub Branch’s efforts have continued to grow, with $24,000 donated in 2023 and $18,000 in 2024. This current management committee has prioritised making a real difference in the Cardwell district, supporting not only vital services and events but also strengthening the region socially.
While community support is a big part of their mission, the welfare of veterans and their families remains at the heart of the Cardwell RSL. Staying active and involved in the community is a key part of promoting physical and mental wellbeing for veterans, and these Sunday gatherings provide the perfect opportunity for connection, service, and support.
Travellers passing through Cardwell on a Sunday are warmly invited to stop in and enjoy lunch, meet some locals, and support a truly worthwhile cause. With thanks to the Cardwell community for their continued support, the Cardwell RSL Sub Branch is proving that with teamwork, heart, and a good feed, a small group can make a lasting impact.
Congratulations to local cane farmer and industry leader Steven Marbelli on his recent election as Vice Chair of the Queensland Canegrowers Board. This is a significant milestone not just for Steven, but for the entire Herbert River region, as one of our own steps into a key leadership role within Queensland’s peak sugarcane industry body.
Steven brings to the boardroom a wealth of firsthand experience and deep industry insight. He began farming in 1986 and currently manages over 500 hectares of sugarcane in the Herbert River district. In addition to his own farming enterprise, he has successfully operated a harvester contracting business for more than 30 years—giving him a unique and practical understanding of both the grower and harvesting sides of the industry.
Steven’s leadership journey with Canegrowers began in 2013 when he joined the board of Canegrowers Herbert River. Since then, he has continued to advocate for practical, grower-focused solutions to industry challenges. His strong voice and commitment to representing local growers saw him elected as Chairman of the Canegrowers Herbert River in 2025.
Further cementing his commitment to industry-wide improvement, Steven has also taken on the role as Chair of the Farm Inputs Committee. This committee reports to the Canegrowers Policy Council and is responsible for presenting recommendations on critical issues affecting farm input costs and availability—ensuring growers’ needs are front and centre in key policy discussions.
His election as Vice Chair of the Queensland Canegrowers Board is a reflection of the respect he has earned throughout the wider sugar industry. With his deep-rooted knowledge of farming and harvesting operations, Steven is well-positioned to contribute meaningfully at the state level. His practical approach, combined with years of leadership and advocacy experience, will strengthen efforts to ensure growers are not only heard, but supported through sound policy and effective representation.
As Vice Chair, Steven will play a vital role in shaping strategic decisions and advocating for policies that support a more sustainable and profitable sugar industry. His leadership will be invaluable as the industry navigates increasing demands for market competitiveness.
Steven’s dedication to the Herbert River region and to Queensland’s cane industry is unwavering. We are proud to see his contributions recognised on a broader stage and look forward to the positive impact he will make for growers across the state.
Council at its General Meeting on, Tuesday 27 May 2025, adopted an innovative new strategy that goes beyond rebuilding after disaster and focuses on driving regional excellence to make the community stronger, better, and more liveable.
Following the significant flooding events that impacted the region, the strategy is designed to ensure Hinchinbrook doesn’t just recover but thrives. With a focus on growth, innovation, and long term sustainability, the strategy cements Council’s commitment to shaping its own future rather than waiting for external solutions.
Council sought community input and feedback through flyers, social media, events, and case studies in order to shape the strategy according to residents’ vision for the region’s future. Over 2,000 Hinchinbrook Shire residents provided feedback and contributed to shaping the strategy. The purpose of the strategy is to support the region’s quality of life through improved social infrastructure, connectivity, and economic growth.
Mayor Ramon Jayo said lifestyle and liveability is a significant draw for the Hinchinbrook region.
“People move here for a slower paced, more nature-oriented lifestyle, and many are looking to live on larger lots where their kids can play and there is more space for bikes and boats.”
“We are taking action now to secure a future where Hinchinbrook is not just surviving, but leading the way in regional development by addressing emerging trends to enhance liveability in Hinchinbrook over the next 20 years,” Mayor Jayo said.
A key focus of the strategy is positioning the region for future investment, with Council set to apply for funding under the Queensland Government’s $2 billion infrastructure fund.
Chief Executive Officer, Mary-Anne Uren said “This proactive approach reflects Council’s commitment to driving change. This strategy is about Hinchinbrook taking control of its own destiny. We are putting forward real solutions and advocating for the support we need to make them a reality.
"Together, we are shaping the Hinchinbrook Way.”
The strategy outlines a series of transformative projects designed to enhance liveability, economic strength, and community resilience. Projects include proposals to create vibrant, connected public spaces to enhance social inclusion and connectedness, and foster environmental stewardship for a thriving outdoor lifestyle for generations to come.
Councillor Donna Marbelli highlighted the strategy’s importance for the people of Hinchinbrook. “Our community is at the heart of this strategy. It’s about making Hinchinbrook an even better place to live, work, and invest, not just for today, but for generations to come,” Cr Marbelli said.
The Liveability 2035: Shaping the Hinchinbrook Way strategy was shaped through an inclusive engagement process involving 2,000 residents. As part of this, a community quilt was crafted, using drawings from children depicting their views on what our community means to them.
Council encourages the community to explore the strategy and be part of the journey towards a stronger future. To view the Liveability 2035: Shaping the Hinchinbrook Way strategy, please visit Council’s website, Corporate Publications and Reports page.
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