Community News

A BETTER BRUCE FOR HINCHINBROOK

A BETTER BRUCE FOR HINCHINBROOK

A major Bruce Highway upgrade is underway, with works at Gairloch, Ripple Creek, Ingham-Halifax-Bemerside Road and the Cardwell Range targeting safer travel and improved flood resilience. The long-awaited improvements aim to reduce the severity of flooding across key sections of highway and help prevent head-on crashes, addressing challenges that can disrupt communities and isolate motorists during the wet season.

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Judges Set To Crown Country Cups’ Best Dressed

Judges Set To Crown Country Cups’ Best Dressed

This NQIB Country Cups Challenge Qualifier Race Day, racegoers are invited to embrace this year’s theme, Country Glamour. The Herbert River Jockey Club event will feature 10 Fashions on the Field categories, catering to everyone from junior entrants to experienced fashionistas. Categories include Forrest Beach Realty Fashions on the Field, Ingham Mazda Contemporary Lady of the Track, NQ Travel & Cruise Classic Lady of the Track, The Bloom Room Townsville Millinery and Lifelong Supports Best Dressed Man of the Track. Junior and youth categories, alongside Spotter’s Choice, will offer further opportunities to take part. Three judges will bring their individual fashion and racing experience to the competition. Amy Byrnes grew up immersed in racing, travelling to meetings with her family and making memories at Cluden Park. Now a racehorse owner herself, she enjoys attending meets across Queensland and internationally. Amy will be looking for confidence, personality and the joy an outfit brings to its wearer, with an appreciation for thoughtful accessories and finishing touches. Milliner Cat Murphy brings more than a decade of experience creating headwear worn at race meetings across Australia and in London. A passionate racing enthusiast, she values outfits that work cohesively with the theme, combining comfort, confidence and attention to detail. Millinery will naturally be a particular focus, whether a bold statement piece or a classic, understated design. Marnie Davidson brings a competitive edge, having collected 27 sashes during three years of Fashions on the Field competitions around Australia. Her achievements include finalist positions at Flemington’s Melbourne Cup Derby Day and Turnbull Stakes, as well as qualifying for several major fashion events. A self-confessed lover of coordinated looks, Marnie will be keeping an eye out for the little details that bring an outfit together. With experienced judges and a Country Glamour theme, racegoers are encouraged to bring their own interpretation of raceday style to the track. For event information and the full list of categories, visit hrjc.com.au. Dress to impress at the Country Cups this November. Photo sourced: Herbert Rivr Jockey Club

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Council Flood Project Wins State Award

Council Flood Project Wins State Award

Cassowary Coast Regional Council has been recognised for its innovative approach to flood monitoring, taking home the Local Government Mutual Services (LGMS) Risk Excellence Award at the Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) Conference on Tuesday evening. The award recognises Council's Flash Flood Sensor Network project, which uses radar technology to monitor water levels at known flood-prone locations across the region. The information from the flood sensors is integrated into Council’s Disaster Dashboard, giving residents, emergency services and Council access to local conditions as they change. Cassowary Coast Mayor Teresa Millwood said the recognition highlighted Council's commitment to finding practical ways to improve community safety and disaster preparedness. "Living on the Cassowary Coast, we know how quickly heavy rainfall can turn into dangerous flooding, particularly in areas where water levels can rise with very little warning," Mayor Millwood said. "These sensors give us another set of eyes on some of our known flood trouble spots, providing real time information without having to send staff out into potentially dangerous conditions. "What's particularly important is that this information isn't just for Council. Our residents in flood prone areas can also access this information on the Disaster Dashboard to help them asses their risk, get prepared and make plans in case flooding looks likely." The network has already supported information sharing with local police and State Emergency Service personnel around Mission Beach, helping emergency services monitor conditions at known flood-prone locations. Previously, monitoring these locations relied heavily on weather forecasts, community reports and staff inspecting conditions on the ground. The technology provides another source of information to support earlier identification of rising water levels, planning for potential road closures and coordinating responses during heavy rainfall. Council is continuing to assess the network through a three-year trial, using observations from residents and emergency services to verify sensor readings and evaluate its effectiveness. Residents can access flood monitoring information, road updates and other important disaster information on Council’s Disaster Dashboard by ticking *New Water Levels Visit: www.disaster.cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au Caption: Cassowary Coast Regional Council has been recognised for its innovative approach to flood monitoring. Photo supplied

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A Comment From Katter With Federal Member for Kennedy Bob Katter

A Comment From Katter With Federal Member for Kennedy Bob Katter

I have spent sleepless nights since last Monday, praying for my long-term and good friend in the Parliament, Helen Haines, along with her family, staff and the first responders to an inexcusable act on a beautiful human being inside and out, who has brought much sparkling joy and enlightenment to the centre of the crossbench. Whilst we are at opposite ends of the country and representing significantly different electorates, my tremendous respect of Helen’s tenacious advocacy for what she believes in, matches my great appreciation of our genuine friendship. We don’t represent a political party based in Melbourne or Sydney or Brisbane – we represent the people who sent us to parliament: the people of our electorate. And there’s no doubt that a terrible blow has been struck against democracy and the people of Australia. A lady in every sense of the word, Helen is a true moderate of the highest regard across the political spectrum – with the ability to get on with people with very definite views like the teals on one hand, and people like himself on the other. And I cannot help but think of her smiling face, whenever I leave the Chamber and tap her on the shoulder to ask, “You right if I leave this all under your control, Helen?” and her cheerful reply, “Yes Bob,” both of us laughing. Not to mention her culinary skills in constructing the most delicate of sponge cakes. Though I react quite frankly with rage and fury at this evil that can have no exculpatory explanations, may we all pray that God’s blessings are with Helen and her family, staff and friends as we all rally around them to provide the support they need during this extremely difficult time. Hon. Bob Katter MP, Federal Member for Kennedy Federal Kennedy MP Bob Katter at Australian Parliament House with his independent crossbench colleague Helen Haines MP, the Member for Indi. Photo supplied

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Advertising Banner

Pursehouse Rural Ingham - We’re Open!

May 11, 2026

Branch Manager Iain Sommerlad is pleased to welcome you to Pursehouse Rural Ingham. Photo supplied

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Pursehouse Rural is delighted to announce that our newest branch in Ingham is now operational! The establishment of this branch solidifies our growing presence in the region and reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting regional communities.

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We welcome the opportunity to extend our range of high-quality products and expert services, including agronomic advice, seed and fertiliser, agricultural chemical, animal health supplies, feed and produce, and rural merchandise to Ingham customers.

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Pursehouse Rural Ingham Branch Manager and Agronomist, Iain Sommerlad, is pleased to welcome you to the branch located on the corner of Townsville Road and Martin Street, Ingham. With a wealth of agronomical knowledge around the region, Iain is prepared to assist with your on-farm requirements this season!

The branch will be open Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm, and Saturday, 8am to 12pm, for your convenience.

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Stay tuned for exciting updates from the branch by following our Facebook page @Pursehouseco and on Instagram @pursehouserural.

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Contact Pursehouse Rural Ingham via email inghamsales@pursehouserural.com.au or Iain Sommerlad on 0437 252 233.

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Here's to your success!

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Minute With The Mayor - Mayor Ramon Jayo 12th May

May 11, 2026

FROM OUR KITCHENS TO QUEENSLAND’S TABLE

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What’s your favourite food?

Council has been invited to help show Queensland what the Hinchinbrook flavour really is.

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We have been asked to submit one recipe to be featured in A Shared Table, a special community cookbook being created by the Local Government Association of Queensland as part of its 130th anniversary celebrations.

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This cookbook will showcase the flavours, traditions and stories of communities from right across the state.  

Due to the many different cultures we share in our community, we have a significant variety of exquisite, and appetising foods to choose from.

So, my question to you is simple. What does Hinchinbrook taste like?

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Is it a recipe handed down through generations? A dish that speaks of our cane fields, coastline, rivers or multicultural roots? Something simple made with love, or a meal saved for special occasions?

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I know we have some incredibly good cooks here in Hinchinbrook, and I have personally been lucky enough to enjoy your food.  

Now I would love to see our community represented on the State stage.

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Each Queensland Local Government will submit a recipe that reflects its region, with all recipes coming together in a commemorative cookbook.  

Copies of A Shared Table will be gifted to delegates attending this year’s LGAQ Annual Conference in Cairns, which is a wonderful opportunity to put Hinchinbrook on the table, literally.

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This is not just about food, it’s about pride, identity, and celebrating what makes our corner of Queensland special.

I am calling on families, schools, community groups and home cooks to tell us your stories, share your recipes, and show Queensland what Hinchinbrook tastes like.  

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Email your recipe idea and a photo to council@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au by 5:00pm Friday, 30 May 2026, so we can put your entry into a draw to help showcase the taste of Hinchinbrook to the rest of the State.

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Will you join us at A Shared Table?

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Councillor Column - Cr Mark Spina 12th May

May 11, 2026

As I look at the Declaration of Office certificate that I signed and proudly display in my office, it is dated 27 March 2024.  

It has now been two years of having the privilege of being elected as a Hinchinbrook Shire Councillor.

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Wow, the time has flown, and we are now just past the halfway mark of the four‑year term.  

So far, the journey has been very interesting.  

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A lot to learn and listen to, and then a lot to deliver on.  

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The test of resilience and the relief of the rebuild after the February 2025 flood event set in motion a lot of work, well above the normal business as usual.

Through good Mayoral leadership and strong management from our CEO, we as a community are slowly starting to see the positive side of such events and trust that the next two years are not as eventful, so that we can deliver and return to a bit of normality for the whole community.

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By the time this column comes out, the annual Ingham Sugar City Rodeo would have just been run on the weekend of Saturday 9 May, celebrating 30 years that this particular event has been held.

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This is usually one of the first large community events that start off the year for our Shire.  

We can only hope that it was a success for the committee, the competitors and the community.

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The Rodeo is an action‑packed event that patrons of all ages can enjoy, and we hope there are many more years of this event to come.

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Until next time, take care and be kind.

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Small Businesses In The Spotlight This May

May 11, 2026

May marks Queensland Small Business Month, a statewide initiative celebrating and supporting the more than 508,000 small and family businesses that help drive local economies and keep regional communities thriving.

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This year’s campaign comes with a strong focus on resilience, practical support and helping businesses navigate ongoing economic challenges while identifying new opportunities for growth. More than 180 events and a range of digital resources are being rolled out across Queensland to ensure small business owners can access meaningful support and expert advice.

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In the Hinchinbrook Shire, local business owners will have the opportunity to connect and learn at the Building Momentum in Challenging Environments Workshop, taking place on Friday, 15 May from 6:45am to 8:30am at The Powerhouse.

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The Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce Industry & Tourism is also encouraging members to attend its General Monthly Meeting on Monday, 18 May from 5:30pm at the Old Suncorp Building, providinganother opportunity for local businesses to network and discuss key regional issues.

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Queensland Small Business Commissioner Nicolle Kelly said feedback from regional and remote business owners was helping shape conversations at the highest levels of government, including recent discussions with Small and Family Business Minister Steve Minnikin.

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“Unsurprisingly, one issue that has been consistently raised is fuel supply and price volatility,” she said.

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“This challenge is having a tangible impact, particularly on businesses in regional and remote communities, influencing factors such as transport costs and customer demand. We’re currently gathering feedback from stakeholders to develop a comprehensive understanding of what’s happening on the ground, and I encourage you to continue to send examples and information to us.”

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More information on Queensland Small Business Month events and resources is available via www.business.qld.gov.au/running-business/support-services/business-events/qsbm.

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SPEED BUMP WORKS, DAVIDSON STREET, INGHAM

May 11, 2026

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Sections of Davidson Street will be temporarily closed to through‑traffic to enable speed bumps to be installed at the intersection of McIlwraith Street and Davidson Street, Ingham. Local property access will be maintained at all times, with signed detours in place to allow residents and businesses to enter and exit the area.  

Works are scheduled to begin from Monday 11 May 2026 to Monday 1 June 2026, weather and site conditions permitting. The project will be completed in three stages, with progressive road closures, signed traffic detours, and pedestrian access maintained at all times to ensure the safety of the community and construction crews.

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Stage 1 on Monday 11 May to Monday 18 May 2026

  • Davidson Street will be closed to through‑traffic south of McIlwraith Street to allow construction of the first traffic‑calming device; and
  • Local traffic access will be maintained, with detours in place for non‑local traffic.

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Stage 2 on Monday 18 May to Monday 25 May 2026

  • Davidson Street will be closed to through‑traffic north of McIlwraith Street while the second speed bump is constructed;
  • During this stage, part of the Stage 1 area will reopen to traffic, while the remaining section remains closed to allow concrete to cure; and
  • Local access will continue to be maintained via detours.

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Stage 3 on Commencing Monday 25 May 2026

  • Sections of Davidson Street will progressively reopen as concrete cures; and
  • All lanes are expected to reopen by Monday 1 June 2026, weather permitting.

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Line marking will be completed in mid‑June 2026 during day works, with traffic control in place, to clearly mark the new speed bumps.  

Motorists are asked to follow all signage, observe detours, and drive with care when travelling through the area.  

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The traffic‑calming devices are designed to reduce vehicle speeds, improve visibility at the intersection, and create a safer environment for drivers, pedestrians and nearby residents.

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This project is proudly funded by the Australian Government through the Black Spot Program in association with the Queensland Government and Hinchinbrook Shire Council.  

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Marine Hotel Donation Supports Cardwell RSL Community Giving

May 11, 2026

With Marine Hotel manager Sarah are, L-R, Alan, George, William, Rob and Stevo of the Cardwell RSL.

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Cardwell RSL Sub Branch members were delighted to receive a $1,500 donation from the Marine Hotel in Cardwell following the hotel’s Anzac Day activities.

The Sub Branch sincerely thanked Sarah and the patrons of the Marine Hotel for their generosity and ongoing community support.

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Cardwell RSL Sub Branch President Robert Lang said the donation came as a very pleasant surprise.

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“The donation by the Marine Hotel to the Cardwell RSL came as a very pleasant surprise; we had no idea that Sarah and her patrons would be so generous,” Mr Lang said.

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“This donation will form part of our overall donation program for 2026, with approximately $6,000 going to local Parents and Citizens committees throughout the district.

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“We also plan more donations to other not-for-profit organisations later this year, including Seafest, Lions Club and the UFO Festival, all thanks to our wonderful volunteers who work tirelessly to conduct our Sunday BBQ and buffet lunches.

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“This workforce proves that age shouldn’t be a barrier to community productivity.”

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ACTION AT LAST Port Hinchinbrook Works Move Ahead

May 5, 2026

The Port Hinchinbrook Provisional Priority Development Area covers approximately 140 hectares near Cardwell and is intended to guide the site’s transformation into a tourism, commercial and residential precinct.

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Work is progressing at Port Hinchinbrook, with early remediation efforts now underway as part of the Queensland Government’s plan to restore the long-troubled site.

Hinchinbrook MP Wayde Chiesa said the project is moving forward following a commitment made during the recent by-election.

“The Government made a commitment during the Hinchinbrook by-election to get on with fixing Port Hinchinbrook, and that work is now underway,” Mr Chiesa said.

Initial works have included the clean-up of silting ponds, construction of all-weather access tracks, and repairs to the bund wall to prevent sediment leeching. These works were recently completed by Civil Plus.

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The project aims to reinstate safe marine access, address environmental concerns such as siltation, and unlock opportunities for private investment, while supporting long-term economic growth in the region.

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Port Hinchinbrook Restoration Moves Forward With Early Works Underway

In the coming weeks, QBuild is expected to begin work on site, focusing on repairing dilapidated buildings and infrastructure to ensure safety at Port Hinchinbrook.

Mr Chiesa said the next stage of the project will involve appointing a lead consultant, a process which is already well advanced.

“The next step is the appointment of the lead consultant, which is well advanced and who will oversee the remaining technical investigations, secure required approvals, and appoint the dredging contractor as a priority,” he said.

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Dredging remains a key focus of the project, with works aimed at restoring navigability and addressing long-standing sedimentation issues within the waterways.

“As the community would appreciate, when an issue has been left unresolved for such a long time, it is essential that the proper investigations and approvals are undertaken so the job is done properly,” Mr Chiesa said.

“That said, the dredging to remediate the site remains the priority.”

The Port Hinchinbrook Provisional Priority Development Area (PPDA), declared in November 2025, covers approximately 140 hectares near Cardwell and is intended to guide the site’s transformation into a tourism, commercial and residential precinct.

The project aims to reinstate safe marine access, address environmental concerns such as siltation, and unlock opportunities for private investment, while supporting long-term economic growth in the region.

The site has faced ongoing challenges since the impacts of Cyclone Yasi in 2011, with infrastructure damage and environmental issues limiting its use.

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Economic Development Queensland (EDQ) is overseeing the project, which includes a Provisional Land Use Plan to coordinate development and infrastructure.

Mr Chiesa said community members can access further information or ask questions via the EDQ project page.

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“This is a positive step forward, and I look forward to providing regular updates to the community as we progress towards commencing dredging later in the year,” he said.

Project delivery is expected to continue through to 2028.

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New SES Recruits Graduate In Hinchinbrook

May 5, 2026

Latest S.E.S. graduates and long service awards celebrated in Ingham. Photo credit: Wayde Chiesa’s Offices

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A new group of dedicated volunteers has officially joined the ranks of the State Emergency Service, following a graduation ceremony held in Ingham celebrating both new recruits and long-serving members.

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Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa attended the event on behalf of Minister Dan Purdie, congratulating those stepping into the vital community role.

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“Congratulations to our newest SES recruits who have officially joined the ranks,” Mr Chiesa said. “Choosing to volunteer your time to support others in their moments of need says a lot about your character, and our community is stronger because of people like you.”

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The ceremony also recognised members receiving long service awards, acknowledging years of commitment and countless call-outs, often in challenging conditions.

“To those who received long service awards, your years of dedication, commitment and service do not go unnoticed. You represent the very best of our community,” he said.

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The SES plays a critical role across the Hinchinbrook region, particularly during severe weather, floods and emergency situations. What sets the service apart is its volunteer base, locals who step forward to help when it matters most.

Mr Chiesa also acknowledged the families and supporters behind the volunteers, recognising the important role they play in enabling members to serve.

For those considering joining, the SES offers a wide range of opportunities. Roles vary from operational work such as chainsaw use and flood boat operations, to incident management, community education and team support. With positions suited to different skills and abilities, the focus is on commitment and a willingness to help.

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Residents interested in becoming part of the SES are encouraged to register their interest online or reach out to learn more about the roles available: www.ses.qld.gov.au/form/become-an-ses-member

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New Era for Community Housing in Cassowary Coast

May 5, 2026

Cassowary Coast Regional Council has backed Regional Housing Ltd to manage local community housing, aiming to expand access and ensure more residents have a place to call home. Photo supplied

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Cassowary Coast Regional Council has moved a step closer to reshaping its community housing network, accepting an expert evaluation panel’s unanimous recommendation to appoint North Queensland-based provider Regional Housing Ltd to own and manage 10 funded freehold properties.

The decision forms part of Council’s broader divestment of its community housing portfolio, aligning with its Corporate Plan and Local Housing Action Plan 2024–2029. The move aims to ensure housing services are delivered by experienced, specialised providers with the capacity to sustainably grow the network and support more residents into secure housing.

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The divestment process followed a comprehensive three-stage expression of interest (EOI) process, launched on 31 October 2025, which attracted strong interest from across the sector. Thirteen applicants progressed through the initial stage, which focused on mandatory qualification checks, before nine moved on to submit detailed proposals.

Those submissions were assessed on their ability to deliver and expand tenant and housing services, manage existing and future assets, engage with the community, maintain probity, demonstrate financial viability, and support local employment and services.

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The final stage now involves Council resolution, Queensland Government approval, and the execution of transfer and funding agreements.

Cassowary Coast Mayor Teresa Millwood said Regional Housing Ltd stood out as a highly capable organisation with a strong regional focus.

“Regional Housing Ltd is an impressive applicant with a strong track record of housing development in a significant number of regional areas across Queensland, to a high standard,” Mayor Millwood said.

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“Their submission highlighted a strong commitment to the Cassowary Coast region, with an existing development application in the pipeline, employment of a dedicated housing officer from day one of the transfer of the portfolio, and the opening a local office that will employ additional staff as the regional portfolio grows.”

Mayor Millwood said ensuring stability for tenants throughout the transition remained a key priority.

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“We will work very closely with the incumbent and new provider to ensure there are minimal disruptions for tenants, that tenants’ rights are protected in accordance with existing policies and legislation, and that prospective new tenants benefit from new community housing coming online in the future,” Mayor Millwood said.

“Supporting the growth of community housing in our region and ensuring more people have a place to call home is part of our vision for ensuring the Cassowary Coast is the most liveable tropical community.”

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All applicants, including the incumbent provider, have been notified of the outcome, with final approval now resting with the Queensland Government.

Council will continue progressing the divestment of the remaining properties within its community housing portfolio.

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Community Rallies Around Young Family After Tragic Loss

May 5, 2026

Community members are rallying around a young family following the sudden loss of Jake Corns, with a GoFundMe launched to support his partner and children during this heartbreaking time. Photo supplied

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A wave of community support is building for a young Innisfail family following the sudden and heartbreaking loss of Jake Corns over the Easter weekend.

News of the tragedy has deeply impacted those who knew the family, with many taking to social media to express their grief and rally behind Jake’s partner, Codie Lee, who is just weeks away from welcoming their new baby.

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“Absolutely heartbroken for Codie Lee who is five weeks from having her new bub and her other two babies,” one post read.  

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“She has just lost her best friend, and their family is now facing the unthinkable.”

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A GoFundMe campaign has since been launched to support Codie and her children, a 10-year-old daughter and a five-year-old son, as they navigate life without their father while preparing for the arrival of a new baby.

Organisers say the fundraiser aims to ease the financial burden during an already devastating time.

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“We are reaching out with heavy hearts to support a young family facing an unimaginable loss,” the page states.

“Jake Corn was a loving partner, a devoted father, and a cherished friend to many.”

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Funds raised will go towards everyday living expenses, upcoming costs for the new baby, schooling needs, and funeral and memorial expenses.

Since the launch, more than $10,000 has been raised, with dozens of donations from community members, friends and local businesses.

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In an update shared to supporters, organiser Brenda Koolman said the generosity shown so far has made a meaningful difference.

“We are overwhelmed by the love and support during this incredibly heartbreaking time after the sudden loss of Jake,” she said.

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“The donations raised so far are already helping to relieve the immediate stress of everyday living and allowing her to focus on the baby and her other children rather than unpaid bills.”

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She said funds are currently being used to cover essential costs including rent, groceries and preparing for the baby, adding that the support is giving the family “breathing room to grieve.”

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Community members are continuing to share the fundraiser, with many encouraging others to contribute or spread the word.

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“Let’s come together as a community to give this young family the support, stability, and care they so deeply need during this heartbreaking time,” the fundraiser reads.

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Those wishing to donate or learn more can find the fundraiser online via https://gofund.me/387089d1e.

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Cassowary Coast Backs Tourism Hub As Demand For Support Grows

May 5, 2026

Cassowary Coast tourism operators have welcomed the Tourism Support Hub, saying improved access to practical support will help small businesses navigate challenges and grow in a complex operating environment. Photo source: Tropical North Queensland

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Cassowary Coast tourism operators have welcomed the Tourism Support Hub, saying improved access to practical support will help small businesses navigate challenges and grow in a complex operating environment. Photo source: Tropical North Queensland

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Just months after its launch, the Government’s Tourism Support Hub has surpassed 100 enquiries, marking an early milestone in its broader plan to reshape the state’s tourism future.

Developed under Queensland’s Destination 2045 initiative, the Tourism Support Hub has already drawn strong interest from Regional Tourism Organisations across the state, fielding enquiries spanning business development, agritourism, cultural tourism, national park permits and disaster recovery.

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Cassowary Coast Regional Council Mayor, Teresa Millwood said initiatives like the Tourism Support Hub are a positive step for regional communities like the Cassowary Coast, where many operators are small, family-run businesses navigating complex processes with limited time and resources.

“Tourism is a vital part of the Cassowary Coast, supporting local jobs and small businesses across our communities,” she said.

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“Our operators are resilient and passionate, but they’re often working with limited time and resources, so having access to clear, practical support is incredibly important. Initiatives like the Tourism Support Hub can help cut through complexity and give local businesses the confidence to grow and adapt.”

Mayor Millwood said there’s a clear need for accessible, practical support in regional areas, highlighting the vital role the Cassowary Coast tourism sector plays in the local economy, noting that operators often contend with challenges including geographic isolation, workforce shortages, rising costs and the ongoing recovery from recent natural disasters.

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She said services like the Tourism Support Hub with a focus on simplifying processes and providing tailored guidance make a real difference, particularly for smaller businesses who may not have the capability to navigate it all on their own.

In 2025, a record 2.4 million international visitors injected $7.5 billion into Queensland’s economy, with total visitor expenditure soaring to $44.3 billion, equivalent to $121.5 million every day.

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Chief Executive Officer of Queensland Tourism Industry Council, Natassia Wheeler, said the Tourism Support Hub was helping to build a stronger, more resilient tourism industry. 

“Access to clear, practical support is critical for tourism operators, particularly in the current operating environment,” Ms Wheeler said. 

“The Tourism Support Hub is playing an important role in helping businesses navigate processes and connect with the right information when they need it.” 

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Tourism operators can find more information on the Tourism Support Hub at www.qld.gov.au/tourismsupporthub, or contact the team directly on 07 3101 2002 or via email at tourismsupporthub@detsi.qld.gov.au.

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TEMPORARY SUSPENSION OF ASBESTOS WASTE ACCEPTANCE

May 5, 2026

Due to updated conditions of the Environmental Authority under which the Warrens Hill Landfill and Resource Recovery Centre operates, the acceptance of asbestos waste will be temporarily restricted.

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From Friday 8 May 2026, the facility will temporarily suspend acceptance of all asbestos waste.  

This notice period is\ provided to allow commercial operators currently working within the Shire time to make alternative arrangements, and Council acknowledges concerns raised regarding the short notice.

To assist the community and operators during this transition, Council will continue to accept asbestos waste until the close of business at the facility on Thursday 7 May 2026.

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These changes are required to ensure Council’s continued compliance with Environmental Authority conditions governing the operation of the landfill, including safe handling, storage and environmental risk management requirements.

The suspension of asbestos disposal is expected to remain in place until approximately 30 June 2026, or until further notice is provided.

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Council acknowledges that these changes may cause inconvenience to some customers and apologises for the disruption. The nearest approved alternative facility for asbestos disposal is the Stuart Landfill, Townsville, located at 24 Vantassel Street, Stuart.

Further updates will be communicated as soon as more information becomes available.

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Council is progressing the Warrens Hill Landfill Cell 4 upgrade, which will increase future disposal capacity and support long-term waste management planning for the Shire and is expected to be completed by 30 June 2026, weather permitting.

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Visit https://www.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au/water-waste-and-roads/roads-and-public-works/major-projects/warrens-hill-landfill-centre-cell-4-project/ for more information on this project.

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SELECTABILITY: SUPPORTING WELLBEING IN INGHAM

May 5, 2026

Asking for help is a great way to start any journey. Find more about Clubhouse programmes at the Canegrowers building. Photo supplied

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Making healthy choices takes effort, but investing time in your wellbeing can have a positive impact. selectability supports the Ingham community to build confidence, make new friends and connect to their community.  

Julie Ross, regional coordinator for selectability Ingham said it was important to look after your wellbeing in all aspects, including mental, physical, social and emotional.  

“Overcoming challenges and building connection and purpose one step at a time can make a positive difference in people’s routine,” said Julie.  

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Get connected with friends and nature by participating in healthy hobbies together like Gardening Club! Photo supplied

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Here are some tips to improve wellbeing:  

Start small with exercise:  Adding a little movement to your day can make a big difference. Choose activities that make you feel good and fit naturally into your daily routine so you’re more likely to stick with them.

Make time for yourself: Make time to breathe, rest and recharge. Giving yourself time for a break is important, even if it’s treating yourself to a simple activity like going for a walk outside, trying a new hobby or watching a movie.  

Get connected: Engage in activities you enjoy and lose track of time with others around you. Feeling connected builds purpose, confidence, and positive wellbeing.  

Ask for help:  Reaching out can feel hard, but support is available. Whether it’s a friend, family member or GP, you don’t have to do it alone.

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“At the Ingham Clubhouse, we support people to focus on their wellbeing through meaningful activities, social connection and building positive routines in a safe, supported environment,” said Julie.  

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The team welcomes anyone interested in learning more about the Clubhouse program or available supports to come in, meet the team and see how connection and community continue to play an important role in supporting wellbeing.  

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Find out about the Ingham Clubhouse program at selectability.com.au or pop into the Canegrowers Building, 11-13 Lannercost Street, Ingham.  

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Helping you manage market volatility for 2027. Simon Hood - Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

May 5, 2026

Nominations for the 2027 Season Managed Pool Plus are now open, providing growers with an opportunity to take a proactive and structured approach to managing sugar price risk in what remains a volatile and uncertain global market.

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With ongoing pressure from large global supply forecasts, shifting macroeconomic conditions and currency volatility, pricing decisions are becoming increasingly complex. The Managed Pool Plus has been designed to help address these challenges by offering a disciplined, longer-term approach to managing GEI exposure, while also incorporating MEI exposure within a single, actively managed pool.

A key strength of the Managed Pool Plus is its two-year pricing window, which allows for a more flexible and considered response to market movements. Rather than relying on short-term timing, the pool is actively traded across both futures and currency markets, with the aim of capturing value as opportunities arise over time. This approach is supported by Wilmar’s sugar trading team, whose experience and market access underpin the pool’s strategy and execution.

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Importantly, the pool brings growers and the mill together in navigating market conditions, with both parties exposed to the outcomes of pricing decisions. This alignment supports a consistent and disciplined approach to risk management, focused on delivering improved pricing outcomes over the longer term.

For growers, the Managed Pool Plus can reduce the pressure of trying to pick the market and the time required to actively monitor price movements. It offers a practical option for those looking to complement their existing pricing strategies or take a more hands-off approach, while still maintaining exposure to potential market upside.

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Another important consideration for growers is flexibility. The Managed Pool Plus allows you to nominate a portion of your GEI exposure, meaning it can sit alongside other pricing mechanisms as part of a broader, diversified strategy. This gives growers the ability to spread risk across different approaches, rather than relying on a single pricing decision. By combining active pool management with individual pricing choices, growers can build a more resilient pricing strategy.

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The Managed Pool Plus is open to anyone marketing with Wilmar for the 2027 Season. Simply nominate a percentage of your exposure before 30 June via the Pricing portal in GrowerWeb.

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Growers are encouraged to speak with their local Grower Marketing Relationship Manager to determine how the Managed Pool Plus can fit within their overall pricing strategy.

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Pursehouse Rural Arrives In Ingham - Now Open For Success!

May 5, 2026

Helping you grow for success, Pursehouse Rural is open in Ingham. Photo supplied

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Pursehouse Rural is your local agricultural distribution company, helping you grow for success. Founded in 1962, Pursehouse Rural is now among the largest privately owned independent agribusinesses in Australia.  

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We are excited to welcome you to the official opening of Pursehouse Rural Ingham. Starting from Tuesday, 5 May, our doors will be open. Visit us at the corner of Townsville Road and Martin Street, Ingham, where Branch Manager and Agronomist Iain Sommerlad will be ready to greet you.

Pursehouse Rural is committed to providing a valuable range of products and services to help our customers be more efficient, productive, and profitable, by Growing Together for Success.

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Your local Pursehouse Rural branch is ready to assist with your inputs on farm this season. Pursehouse Rural has a wide range of products and services readily available, from agronomic advice, agricultural chemicals, seed and fertiliser to livestock feed, fencing supplies, and much more. Connect with our experienced team for personalised advice on your cropping or pasture operations today!

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Pursehouse Rural welcomes the opportunity to expand our range of high-quality products and services for Ingham customers. Call the store to make inquiries on 0437 252 233, follow us online @PursehouseRuralIngham for new product announcements and visit our website www.pursehouserural.com.au to see our extensive stock.

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Here’s to your success!

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