Paul Schembri's election as grower-director to the Sugar Terminals Limited (STL) board has been met with strong approval from grower advocacy organisations CANEGROWERS and Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR). This milestone highlights the increasing demand for transparency, accountability, and grower-focused decision-making within the sugarcane industry.
CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens hailed Mr Schembri’s election as a victory for growers, emphasising the significance of his leadership.
“Paul Schembri’s election is a win for growers and the industry as a whole,” he said.
“Paul’s decades of experience and dedication make him an invaluable addition to the STL board. His presence signals a renewed focus on ensuring the voices of growers are not just heard but respected.”
QCAR Chairman Christian Lago also acknowledged the overwhelming support for Mr Schembri, describing him as a “bona-fide grower” and expressing optimism about his contributions.
“We congratulate Paul on his election,” Mr Lago said.
“He’s a bona-fide grower who QCAR wholeheartedly endorsed, and we look forward to working with him and fellow G Class director Steve Kirby, who are well-placed to represent the interests of G Class shareholders.”
The election outcome follows a contentious period for STL. Delays in finalising the voting process after the Annual General Meeting (AGM) were compounded by growing frustrations with STL’s leadership and its decision-making approach. CANEGROWERS and QCAR were among those critical of STL’s controversial 2023 move to insource terminal operations, which many growers view as unnecessary and poorly communicated.
“Most farmers do not support the plan—it’s a business model STL has no track record with,” Mr Lago said.
“STL’s claims that it can outperform Queensland Sugar Limited (QSL) are unsubstantiated, and we are yet to see any proof.”
CANEGROWERS also pointed to the rejection of STL’s remuneration report for the second consecutive year at the AGM as evidence of shareholder dissatisfaction. While a motion to spill the board was ultimately defeated, the result underscored the demand for change.
“This election is more than just a win for Paul—it’s a wake-up call for STL,” Mr Menkens said.
“Growers are demanding a change in leadership style and decision-making. They want transparency, accountability, and a commitment to the industry’s long-term interests.”
Both organisations have called for reform to address diminishing grower representation within STL. Mr Lago highlighted the decline in voting power among active G Class shareholders, which has dropped from 64% in 2000 to just 36% in 2024.
“Active growers must make up the majority of shareholders as was intended in STL’s founding charter,” he said.
“STL must focus on fixing the share registers and deal promptly, decisively, and fairly with dry shareholders.”
As Mr Schembri steps into his new role, there is cautious optimism that his leadership will help bridge divides and refocus STL’s priorities.
“These terminals represent generations of growers’ hard work and investment,” Mr Menkens said.
“Unilateral decisions that ignore grower input erode trust and unity. Paul’s election is an opportunity for STL to rebuild trust and honour the legacy of the sugarcane industry while preparing it for a sustainable future.”
The industry now watches closely, expecting STL to address concerns, restore grower representation, and provide clarity on its contentious insourcing model.
“This is a critical moment for STL to prove it can genuinely act in the best interests of the growers who built its foundation,” Mr Lago said.
A full STL update is available online: nsx.com.au/ftp/news/021744120.PDF.

The new owners of Halifax Hotel are loving their new life in the Hinchinbrook Region.

In August 2024 Luke Penning and Joe Mikuletic opened their doors to the Halifax community, and were thrilled when more than 200 people came along to welcome to them.

Between the two of them, Luke has the hospitality experience. He has been in the industry for almost 20 years, starting as a barista, and then worked in nightclubs, RSL, clubs, pubs and hotels.

By comparison, Joe has been selling forklifts for the past 27 years and, deciding to go for a career change has now been working in the hospitality industry for 15 weeks, saying he’s loving it so far.

“We're living the dream,” said Joe.

“When I was 18, drinking at the pub I always wanted to buy a pub and 30 something years later, we have.

“What I like about it is the small town, everybody knows everybody. Everybody looks after each other. Everybody respects each other.

“The community is tight knit and so welcoming as well, once you are here you feel like a local and are treated like a local too.

“The way they have welcomed us has been very humbling.”

Meanwhile, Luke said employing local is very important to them.

“We employ local first,” he explained.

“We have an extra seven positions now and they've all gone to locals.”

Since taking over, Luke and Joe have been busy with renovation works too, giving the place a new paint job and spruiking it up so there is a new light and airy feel that the community say they love.

In the future, the pair hope to add a beer garden extension, outdoor entertainment areas, an external wood fired pizzeria, an outdoor bar, and even a kids playground.

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The Herbert River Museum is preparing for its Christmas themed display windows, featuring a nativity scene and all things Christmassy.

The volunteers at the museum all get behind it and love the Christmas aspect in the museum during this part of the year.

The Herbert River Museum has 13 volunteers and President Coral Gard said she is always looking for more.

“We only need people to do three hours a week,” she said.

The non-for-profit museum has been open for 32 years now and volunteers always love to see people coming through the doors for the first time.

The museum has six rooms in total and most items on display are donated by members of the public.

“When one of the ladies got here yesterday, on the doorstep was an old fashioned hair dryer,” said Coral.

“Someone had dropped it at the door for us!”

Coral loves working at the museum, she finds it extremely satisfying and interesting.

“I love the history of the place, it is wonderful,” Coral said.

“People come in, and then they'll ask about certain things, and I will say, ‘Well, if I don't know, I can get somebody that does know’.”

Coral also added her thanks to the council, that has donated $5000 a year to the Herbert River Museum.

The Herbert River Museum is open Tuesday – Saturday 9am – 12pm and will be closed from the 14 December until 4th February for volunteers to enjoy Christmas and extra time with family.

Owner of Hinchinbrook Community Pharmacy Andrew Giliberto recently decided his store needed a fresh lick of paint, and after a discussion with his wife, he thought a mural would be a great addition to his store.

Andrew had seen artwork by ‘Art by Lavinia’ around Halifax and knew she would be the perfect creative for the job.

“I had the idea of getting Lavinia to do a mural on this wall ever since I had seen what she had done at the butchers, the pub and a few other places around the district, I was familiar with her work,” said Andrew.

“I approached her earlier in the year and showed her a few old photos of the town that we were given by the museum and the locals.

“We did a few high-resolution scans, and I sent them off to Lavinia and said, look, I was thinking we do a street scape and mesh a few of these photos together and have it as a perspective of looking down the street from the same angle.”

Lavinia loved the idea and Andrew says he is thrilled with the result.

“We have had nothing but positive reviews,” he said.

“People come in specifically just to say it looks great and we are really happy with that.”

Andrew explained the mural of the old street in Halifax was in-keeping with the township’s desire to become a heritage village.

“It makes us stand out as a town, and if we lean into this, maybe it's going to be the thing that puts Halifax on the map,” explained Andrew.

“It's a great town, and it's a great community, and we'd like to see it go forward.”

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The Hinchinbrook Shire Council Seniors Morning Tea, held on Friday, 6 December, was a resounding success.
More than 300 attendees gathered to enjoy a delightful morning tea, followed by outstanding performances from local talent. The event was a wonderful celebration, with festive cheer and heartfelt Christmas wishes shared, making it a truly memorable occasion for all involved.

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Find More pictures at: https://www.hinchinbrooklife.com/social-pics/a-lively-seniors-morning-tea
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Ingham’s Own Premier of Queensland David Crisafulli is on his way to the region to officially launch Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper at a special event due to be held at Ingham RSL this Wednesday night.

The whole community is welcome to attend the special launch celebrations where they can hear first-hand about the Premier’s journey, starting out as a Cadet Journalist for the Herbert River Express to becoming the 41st Premier of Queensland.

QLD Premier Backs Regional Print Media

Beginning his professional career as a Cadet Journalist for the Herbert River Express, Ingham-born Premier David Crisafulli has strong ties to both the region and regional newspapers.

It is these ties that recently saw him graciously accept an invitation by Life Publishing Group to officially launch Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper.

The Premier completed work experience at the Herbert River Express from 1995 to 1996, he then started a full-time role in 1998 while at university and finished-up in 2000.

“As someone who started their career as a newspaper cadet in Ingham, regional media outlets hold a special place in my heart,” stated the Premier.
 
“The Herbert River Express taught me the value of hard work and community and allowed me to tell Queenslanders’ incredible stories.”

Crisafulli adds that regional newspapers are at the cornerstone of the community, keeping everyone connected.
 
“Regional media outlets provide a vital service keeping residents informed and local communities connected,” he expressed.
 
“I’m excited the people of Hinchinbrook will have a new local paper to showcase this incredible part of Queensland that I know and love.”

Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper printed its first publication on Tuesday 26th November this year and held an informal ‘Launch Breakfast’ for its Foundation Advertising Partners last week.

Printing 3000 copies every week and distributing throughout Ingham and surrounding townships, north to Cardwell and south to Rollingstone, this is a free newspaper available to everyone in the community from over 50 dedicated distribution stands and pick-up points.

Editor in Chief, Rachael Smith, said she is thrilled to be part of the team bringing a free newspaper to the local community.

“We are 100% dedicated to connecting regional communities through the power of print media,” shared Rachael.

“When the Mayor invited us to Ingham we immediately fell in love with the community and we instantly knew this newspaper was going to be more than words on pages – it’s about bringing the community together, giving them a local platform for their news – every community deserves this.”

Life Publishing Group has been operating for 13 years, beginning with two magazine publications and launching into the world of weekly newspapers in 2020.

Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper has been printing weekly news for over four years now and Burdekin Life Newspaper was launched in 2023, followed by Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper in November.

“In May this year we were honoured to win Best Free Newspaper in Queensland for Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper at the Queensland Country Press Awards,” said Rachael.

“Founder Bec Douthwaite and I accepted the award on the night and it was presented by the then-Leader of the Opposition David Crisafulli.

“It was an exciting moment made even more special by the fact David presented us the award.

“I was lucky enough to interview again him for a newspaper article a few months later and that’s when I told him we’d soon be starting Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper.

“It’s a huge honour to be welcoming the Premier to our launch tomorrow and I would like to personally thank him for accepting the invite!”

If you would like to attend the event simply scan the QR code and register.

Life Publishing Group is providing a drink on arrival and nibblies for all to enjoy and Ingham RSL has kindly co-sponsored the event.

https://www.eventbrite.com.au/myevent/1095685247069/invite-and-promote/

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Hi Everyone,

I hope you are enjoying your new free local newspaper!

It’s an absolute pleasure to be sharing all your stories with the local community and I hope the paper is allowing you to feel more connected.

We have had an incredible response so far with our phones running hot on the day we first published the paper – most people were calling to find out where they could get their hands on a copy.

You can check out our Facebook page for the full list of locations and, make sure you give the page a ‘like’ while you’re there!

As you can see, Hinchinbrook Life is a free community newspaper, we are dedicated to making local news available to everyone in the community.

This means every printed word is free to read and so is every word published on our website – there are no pay walls.

The reason we can bring this all to you for free is because of the incredible local businesses that choose to advertise with us.

In fact, our Founding Advertising Partners, the community-minded individuals that got behind the paper before it even started, are the reason we are here at all.

I’d like to say a big thank you to this group of local businesses, we really appreciate your faith in us and your desire to help reinstate the local paper.

If you are a local business owner in the community, you can join this group of people by talking with our amazing Sales Manager Trish and booking an ad.

If you are a community member wondering how you can support this paper, the answer is simple – read about the advertisers, look at their ads, go into their businesses and buy a product or service from them.

This will continue to make this paper a success!

Rach

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Carol Sanderson has been a dedicated volunteer with the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre since its establishment in 1980—an incredible 44 years of service. Over this time, she has taken on numerous roles within the organization, including receptionist, emergency relief coordinator, and provider of community information and referrals. She also contributed to the food bank and served on the board.
The Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre began as a simple community information center and has since evolved into the comprehensive service provider it is today. Carol has been a constant presence through this journey, embracing change with a cheerful and friendly attitude.
Beyond her work with the Centre, Carol volunteers with other community organizations, such as Ingham Palliative Care, and previously dedicated 20 years as a Scout Leader. For Carol, volunteering is a way to stay engaged and connected.
"It’s the best thing to do instead of sitting at home feeling sorry for yourself. I’m getting out and meeting a lot of nice people," she said.
When asked about the challenges of volunteering, Carol admits, "Not always being able to help everybody" is the hardest part.  
Volunteers like Carol are the backbone of the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre, helping thousands of people in need every year. If you’re considering volunteering and want to make a difference in your community, we’d love to hear from you!

Contributed with thanks to ​Carmon Martin Community Grants Officer from Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre

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Carol Sanderson has volunteered with the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre for 44 years. Photo supplied

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Disaster season is here and last Thursday 28 November the Herbert River Sub Group gathered to discuss the upcoming season and re-access the plan in case of emergency.

Sergeant and Officer in Charge of Halifax Police Station Giovanni Tantalo is coordinator of the meeting.

Sergeant Tantalo said this sub-group was created from the Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG), following the 2012 disaster season.

“The idea is to get together and have a bit of a brainstorm, and if any of the wardens or any of the members can think of a problem we have had previously that might need to be addressed we can bring those issues up with the LDMG,” explained Sergeant Tantalo.

“This meeting brings together our area wardens in each of our little townships that become islands in major floods, the emergency services, any other additional personnel who may need to know information for major events, such as our food providers, fuel business owners, that type of thing.

“The best advice I can give is to look at the Council’s notice board on the web, they also have hand-out flyers. Read those and follow those steps.

Hinchinbrook Shire Council Mayor Ramon Jayo said it’s important to be prepared in disaster season.

“It is important that people understand what the risks to them are because then they can start thinking about how they will plan and prepare themselves to deal with that risk,” said Mayor Ramon Jayo.

“For instance, our most common risk here is flooding. What happens when there are floods? People are going to get isolated.

“At the council, we’ve got information which is relevant and tells us what our risks are and how best to prepare for it.

“We’re in cyclone alley, our big three disasters are cyclones, floods and storm surges.”

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Sergeant and Officer in Charge of Halifax Police Station Giovanni Tantalo and Hinchinbrook Shire Council Mayor Ramon Jayo. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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On Thursday 28 November, the State Government took the first step towards restoring community safety and legislating Adult Crime, Adult Time with the introduction of the landmark, Making Queensland Safer Bill 2024.
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The Making Queensland Safer Laws deliver on a key commitment to Queenslanders to turn the tide on the Youth Crime Crisis. Under the new laws, juvenile offenders who commit some of the most serious crimes will face the same penalties as adult offenders and the rights of victims will be put ahead of the rights of offenders. 
With proposed amendments to the Youth Justice Act 1992, the tough provisions contained in the Bill complement plans for Gold Standard Early Intervention, crime prevention and effective rehabilitation to ensure fewer Queenslanders fall victim to crime. 

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Adult Crime, Adult Time offences include murder, manslaughter, unlawful striking causing death, grievous bodily harm, wounding, serious assault, home business break-ins and robbery, and dangerous operation of vehicles.

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The Making Queensland Safer laws propose removing the principle of detention as a last resort and will change the way in which offenders are sentenced with courts empowered to consider an offender’s full criminal history when sentencing.

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Premier David Crisafulli said restoring community safety would be the first order of business with the Making Queensland Safer Laws. 
“The Making Queensland Safer Laws are the first strike back against a youth crime crisis a decade in the making,” Premier Crisafulli said. 
“Where we are today is the result of decisions made a decade ago; a fresh start is what we need, Queenslanders demanded it and we are delivering it.”

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A travel influencer recently put Cardwell on the digital map, creating a viral video detailing the suspected extraterrestrial nature residing within the region.

Terry’s twenty-minute YouTube video titled, “Cardwell: Is this Tiny Town Australia’s UFO Capital?” has attracted well over 67,000 views and counting, with the video prompting many locals to reminisce on their own paranormal experiences.

Terry’s inspiration to investigate the mysterious alien phenomenon came after he read many reports of strange lights flickering in the night sky, exhibiting seemingly unexplainable behaviours, and acting on his inquisitiveness, he decided to interview a handful of locals on his travels in attempt to find answers.

“Since settlement there’s been unusual stories recorded about different things in the sky, coming out of the water, and on the land,” shared Thea, organiser of Cardwell’s annual Australian UFO Festival.

“There’s one particular phenomenon that has been recorded since early settlement and it’s these two lights that travel across the sky, parallel with each other and then they will just shoot straight up, and we’ve just coined it, the Cardwell Lights.”

The northern end of Cardwell, has homed many reports over the years where residents have claimed to witness these two strange lights travelling parallel at high speeds across the sky to then suddenly shoot directly upwards into the atmosphere, leaving onlookers feeling anxious and on edge.

Similarly, foreign objects have been witnessed emerging from the ocean nearing towards Hinchinbrook Island and rapidly flying into the sky, without a trace. Described as spaceships, fisherman recall the objects suddenly flying out from the depths of the ocean below, with some experiences causing all electronic equipment on board to lose power and reception.

Above all else, the most famous interplanetary sighting was reported in January of 1966 when local farmer, George Pedley was left “frigid with fright” after witnessing a flying saucer rise at great speed from a lagoon on his Tully property.

Regardless of the countess stories and local recounts, many are confident “seeing is believing,” despite the blanketed perception being “we aren’t alone,” however, although there’s a lack of evidence proving the reality of aliens, many scientists and researchers believe it’s likely extraterrestrial life exists.

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A mysterious “crop circle” found by George Pedley following a harrowing 1966 paranormal ordeal.

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On Monday 6 January 2025, physical emergency dredging operations will commence at Port Hinchinbrook’s One Mile Creek to improve both recreational and essential access.
Announced on Wednesday 27 November, countless locals welcomed the news with open arms, taking to social media to express their gratitude towards the Cassowary Coast Regional Council, adding these plans have been highly anticipated across the entire boating and fishing community.
One Mile Creek has been a contentious topic of discussion for many years, with Member for Hinchinbrook, Nick Dametto, spearheading concerns for the area since 2020, outlining the necessity of developing both a long-term solution as well as actioning emergency dredging.
Scheduled for January, the dredging will extend across a four-week period with approximately 990 tonnes of material expected to be removed from the area.
In order to execute the planned operations, a 100m exclusion zone around the dredging area will be established to protect the safety of all water users, whilst stabilising the batter slopes and seabed.
The Port Hinchinbrook Boat Ramp will be closed throughout the period, with the Cassowary Coat Regional Council encouraging the community to utilise alternative boat ramp locations at Marine Parade, Meunga Creek or Fishers Creek.
A lengthy process, the Cassowary Coat Regional Council has undertaken sediment testing, analysed dredge sediment disposal sites, conducted a hydrographic survey, and met with the State Assessment and Referral Agency (SARA) prior to receiving $1.5 million in funding from the Australian Government to commence works.
“Following the receipt of a Deed of Variation from the Department of Infrastructure in October 2024, we are moving forward with this crucial project to enhance our local waterway,” shared the Cassowary Coast Regional Council.
“We want to reassure the community, that environmental considerations are a priority, and we will be managing our obligations under the Environmental Protection Act 1994 to monitor and mitigate any potential impacts.”
Although vital, the current emergency program exists as merely a short-term solution to the ongoing accessibility issues concerning One Mile Creek, Port Hinchinbrook Marina and the surrounding onshore facilities.

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One Mile Creek underwent emergency dredging in 2022.
One Mile Creek was also a contentious topic of discussion in 2020.

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The 58th Parliament of Queensland commenced last week as the Legislative Assembly sat for the first time under the incoming Crisafulli Government. Most of the first week was filled with ceremony and official proceedings except for Thursday when the incoming government introduced three new bills, one being the anticipated Making Queensland Safer Bill, which is set to become law before Christmas.
While the legislation is a step in the right direction, in my opinion it doesn’t go far enough. The bill takes inspiration from several of the Katter’s Australian Party’s (KAP) crime policies, like “removing detention as a last resort” and the principle of “adult crime = adult time” but fails to address the public’s calls to implement minimum mandatory sentencing and castle law.
Youth offenders must be locked up, but the fact is, our detention centres are full. Young crims are climbing over themselves to get into places like Cleveland Bay detention centre before Christmas because it’s a holiday camp. Detention should be a place to avoid, instead of plush purpose built metro facilities. I’d like to see these kids spending the Christmas holidays out in Western Queensland on a cattle station or in donga style accommodation near Urandangi serving time under KAP’s Relocation Sentencing policy.
Also, during the first week of parliament, I moved a disallowance motion to oppose incoming regulations that would make wearing a lifejacket mandatory in certain circumstances. From December 1st, boaties in vessels under 4.8 metres will be forced to wear lifejackets when boating alone or at night.
I’m all for safety, however mandating this requirement is overbearing and takes away what should be a personal responsibility. Boaties should have the right to decide if it is necessary or safe for them to wear a lifejacket or not. The regulations are not justified. What’s next, regulating floaties for everyone who decides to go swimming?
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Opinion Piece
Contributed with thanks to Member for Hinchinbrook Nick Dametto

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Member for Hinchinbrook Nick Dametto with his son Deekin at the official opening of the 58th State Parliament. Photo supplied

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Felix Reitano of Felix Reitano Furniture & Real Estate recently  became a life member of the Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ).

He was recognised for a lifetime of dedication to the real estate profession and REIQ CEO Antonia Mercorella said the real estate peak body considers this distinction for REIQ members who have shown long outstanding and meritorious service. 
 
“Felix certainly fits the bill for the honour of Life Member, holding REIQ membership since 1992, more than three decades, and in that time proudly and exceptionally serving his community and giving back to his real estate colleagues,” Ms Mercorella said.
 
“He has been a great supporter of the REIQ and our advocacy efforts over the years and it’s wonderful to acknowledge his contribution and firm commitment to the REIQ family.
 
“Felix Reitano Furniture & Real Estate is a family business that’s not only highly respected, but after celebrating 100 years of operation, it’s woven into the fabric of the community and is an Ingham institution – dare I say, it’s become part of the furniture!
 
“Felix is undoubtedly a ‘people person’ who thrives off human interaction, and I wouldn’t be surprised if he knew just about everyone in his district, giving him great influence.”
 
Accepting the Life Member certificate in person at the REIQ Office HQ, alongside his wife Judy, Felix said he was honoured to receive the award and dedicated it to his family.
 
“I’m 77 years young and my son, Felix Peter, is the fourth generation in our family business, but we both always keep in mind that we are carrying the baton on behalf of those that came before us,” he said.
 
“I dedicate this award to my grandfather and my father who were faced with much greater challenges, yet still accomplished so much and established a business with exceptional standards and service.
 
“We respect and honour that tradition by living by those standards, and the REIQ has been a great support in our endeavours because its high standards match ours. 
 
“Real estate is far more technical now than the old days when you shook hands and away you went, but with rights come responsibility and I take that responsibility seriously.”
 
Felix Reitano has spent nearly all of his 77 years in Ingham, leading the family business for over 45 years. As the third generation to take the helm, Felix has upheld a proud legacy of service in the Hinchinbrook district, with the business celebrating 100 years of operation in 2023.
 
He is a family man and active community leader, Felix was named the Hinchinbrook Shire’s Citizen of the Year in 2024, further cementing his legacy of service, dedication, and commitment to the real estate profession and his local community. 

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Antonia Mercorella (REIQ CEO), Felix & Judy Reitano & Peter Brewer (REIQ Chairman). Photo supplied

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In January of 2014, the lives of the Williams and Fettell family were turned upside down when thirty-four-year-old mother of two, Lauri Fettell was diagnosed with breast cancer. In navigating the news of her daughter’s diagnosis, Sandra Williams discovered a way in which she could not only help her daughter, but also support so many others experiencing breast cancer, and channelled her daughter’s strength to establish The Simple Gift of a Bag.

Lauri underwent a mastectomy, and whilst in hospital recovering from the surgery, Sandra noticed the unpracticality and uncomfortableness her daughter’s drainage bag caused, and with that, she began planning for something better. Although experiencing the unthinkable, both Sandra and Lauri focused on providing other breast cancer survivors with compassion and strived to provide women across Australia with the opportunity to access the bags.

“Even while undergoing chemotherapy, my daughter Lauri would lie in bed, and ring around to try find hospitals within Australia that would like our bags as each bag gives that little bit of dignity and kindness for a person during an overwhelming time in their life and Lauri knows this as she’s lived through it, and knows exactly how the patient feels,” added Sandra.

“Our page grew bigger and so did the volunteers – the generosity of people never ceased to amaze us, and we have around sixty women who have been sewing bags, with more offering to help every day,” Sandra added.

The pair’s initiative has continued to gain traction, and today, with women sewing across Australia, ‘The Simple Gift of a Bag’ posts drainage bag covers to over eighty-eight hospitals and specialist rooms throughout the country for patients to use freely during their post operation recovery. To date, just over 30,500 bags have been handmade and donated as part of ‘The Simple Gift of a Bag’[, with both Lauri and Sandra beyond grateful for the support of the Hinchinbrook community and beyond.

“We love our connection to the Hinchinbrook community, and the businesses in Ingham, Halifax and Lucinda suburbs are so generous with gift vouchers, and prizes that we use each year for our Winter Fundraiser Raffle – it’s a very important part of our yearly fundraising campaign.”

Sandra invites anyone who may be interested in volunteering their time in support of The Simple Gift of a Bag to email sly.sis@bigpond.com.

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Lauri Fettell today with her beautiful family.
John Flynn Private Hospital staff with some of the amazing bags donated by The Simple Gift of a Bag.
Fundraising for a fantastic cause, Sandra is often blown away with the community’s support.

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