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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The CANEGROWERS Herbert River Link2Country Expo took place on May 23-24, 2025, at the Ingham Showgrounds in North Queensland. This vibrant two-day event was designed to connect local communities with the agricultural sector through hands-on experiences and career opportunities, drawing attendees from across the region, including school students from Townsville and Charters Towers.
Among the many engaging stalls was the CANEGROWERS Herbert River team, who demonstrated how a Refractometer is used to measure Commercial Cane Sugar (CCS). Visitors also had the chance to journey through the sugar cane industry using immersive Virtual Reality (VR) headsets, offering a unique perspective on the day-to-day workings of cane farming and harvesting.
The Expo featured a variety of interactive activities that appealed to people of all ages. A popular highlight was the children’s tractor pull, which encouraged young participants to showcase their strength and coordination in a fun competition. Another crowd favourite was the excavator challenge, where contestants tested their precision skills by trying to pick up a small rugby league ball using only the excavator bucket. These hands-on experiences were designed not only to entertain but also to educate attendees about the machinery and skills vital to modern agriculture.
Adding to the lively atmosphere were line dancing performances, bringing the community together in a spirited celebration of rural culture and camaraderie. The event was especially well-received by school students, many of whom appreciated the opportunity to explore agricultural careers in an engaging and accessible setting.
Frank Scardamaglia, Manager of CANEGROWERS Herbert River, said, “It was great to see so many people connect with industry professionals within the agriculture sector.
"Nicole Chiesa’s vision in bringing together education and industry skills made the event a real success. It was a clever way to inspire the next generation while showcasing the importance of agriculture in our region.”
The event concluded with Chairman Steven Marbelli offering his congratulations to Nicole Chiesa and Link2Country.
“This well-organised Expo demonstrates the strong synergies between CANEGROWERS and the wider community. It’s a fantastic example of how industry and education can come together to promote agriculture’s future.”
The Link2Country Expo celebrated rural life, innovation, and the vital role agriculture plays in connecting people and communities across North Queensland.
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The Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre has extended an invitation to children and young people across the state to pick up their pencils, paints, and creativity for a Queensland-wide art competition in celebration of children’s rights.
Proudly presented by Children’s Rights Queensland and supported by the Queensland Family and Child Commission, this exciting initiative invites young artists to respond to the theme, “Every Queensland child is loved, respected and has their rights upheld”.
The competition encourages anyone between the ages of 0 to 25years to express their ideas, dreams, and hopes for a brighter future to showcase their creativity whilst helping to raise awareness of the rights of all children in Queensland.
With over $2,000 worth of prizes up for grabs, young participants are encouraged to let their voices be seen through bold colour, thoughtful messages, or imaginative storytelling!
Entries are open now, and to learn more or to enter, families can visit childrensrightsqld.org.au/art-competition-2025 or scan the QR Code.
Get drawing, painting, and imagining!
https://childrensrightsqld.org.au/art-competition-2025/
The Bemerside community is preparing to celebrate the 98th annual Feast of St Anthony on Sunday, 8th June. This much-loved local tradition brings together faith, family and community in a day filled with prayer, food and festivities.
The day will begin with a Celebration of Mass at 11:00am, led by the Parish Priest. Then from 12:00pm to 6:00pm, a variety of food and drink stalls will be operating, offering everything from BBQ and fish and chips to granita, cannoli, cakes, sandwiches and more. A licensed bar and soft drinks will also be available.
Also at 2:30pm, the Procession and Rosary will take place, followed by the Blessing of Children and the Distribution of St Anthony’s Bread.
Entertainment throughout the afternoon will include live music from Anthony Fracchia, along with activities for all ages such as the 500 Club, monster raffle, bottle stall, and a jumping castle for the children. Religious articles will also be featured.
This annual celebration is a valued part of the Hinchinbrook region’s cultural and spiritual life. Everyone is welcome to attend and take part in this special day of reflection and community spirit. For more information, contact Angie on 0427 761 522.
WHAT: 98th Annual Feast of St Anthony.
WHEN: 11:am - 6:00pm Sunday, 8th June 2025.
WHERE: St Anthony's Church on 18 Fulton Dr, Bemerside.
Naturally Kids Allied Health homes a passionate team of pediatric professionals at 6/141 Ingham Road in West End to offer the children and families of both Townsville and the broader Hinchinbrook Shire with a range of occupational therapy services.
Comprised of a dedicated team of Occupational Therapists Kym, Aidan, Amy, Vania, Emma, Grace and Neil, as well as Allied Health Assistants Shae, Georgia, Sophie and Dominic, Practice Manger Tanya and Client Experience Concierge Julie-Ann work to deliver neurodevelopmental and sensory-based therapy through fun, and effective sessions whilst ensuring each family’s experience is smooth and supportive.
On a regular basis, one of Naturally Kids Allied Health’s Occupational Therapists travels to Ingham to bring these services directly to the Hinchinbrook community, further delivering accessible play-based, strength-focused sessions to support children in achieving their goals.
“Naturally Kids believes all children deserve to be understood, supported, and celebrated, regardless of where they live - that’s why we’re proud to extend our services to Ingham and surrounding areas,” shared Practice Manager, Tanya Bird.
“Our team is neurodiversity-affirming and trauma-informed, ensuring that every child feels safe, connected, and empowered during therapy and by combining evidence-based strategies with fun, play-based approaches, we help children build skills that support them at home, school, and in the community.”
Paired with traditional services, Naturally Kids Allied Health are excited to offer a number of specialised sessions including Nature-Based Occupational Therapy and Sense Rugby to help children improve social, emotional, and physical skills while supporting kids who struggle with traditional team sports.
“Families in the Hinchinbrook region should choose Naturally Kids because we bring high-quality, compassionate therapy directly to your doorstep,” Tanya added.
“Whether it's for help with fine motor skills, sensory challenges, emotional regulation, or daily living tasks — we're here for you.”
The Rotary Club of Townsville Central made a generous donation to the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre early this year. This was given with the heartfelt intention of distributing these funds directly to those in need within our community, and that is exactly what it did for many people.
This incredible act of kindness offered vital assistance to individuals and families impacted by the recent floods, helping them rebuild their lives and renew their sense of hope.
The Rotary Club of Townsville Central recently celebrated its 40th Anniversary and is a very active service club in our region. Operating under the motto “Service Above Self,” the club focuses on community service, professional development, and fostering fellowship among its members.
Thanks to the unwavering support of the dedicated service organisations just like the Rotary Club, we can continue to extend meaningful assistance to those in our community who need it most. Their ongoing commitments, both near and far, make a real difference in the lives of countless individuals.
Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre extend a great thank you to the Rotary Club of Townsville Central for your compassion, generosity, and tireless service. Your support brings hope when needed most.
Local artist Lavinia has once again brought colour, culture, and community spirit to the Hinchinbrook region through her latest mural projects, including a vibrant depiction of Lucinda’s waterways, commissioned by the Lucinda Progress Association and the Hinchinbrook Shire Council.
The new artwork is a “sister mural” to Lavinia’s previous creation at Borrello Park. While the earlier mural focused on the coral reef system, this latest piece turns its attention inland, celebrating the mangroves, river systems, and the incredible array of aquatic life that call them home.
A key highlight of the project was the community painting day, where around 150 locals of all ages came together to contribute to the mural under Lavinia’s guidance.
“The community day was fantastic,” she said. “Afterwards, I spent the next couple of weeks adding all the details—the little elements, the layers of paint, and the finishing touches. Now we have this beautiful, vibrant mural that really showcases our local waterways."
There are fish depicted such as the Mangrove Jack, lots of little Archerfish, Coral Trout, a Mudcrab on the other side, Giant Trevally, Queenfish, Barramundi, and even a Sleepy Cod. There’s even a Grunter based on a fish that Lavinia’s own son caught. When he reeled it in, she just knew she had to paint it.
In addition to her work in Lucinda, Lavinia has finished a major commission in Tully, where she painted a massive mural to mark Tully Sugar’s 100th anniversary.
"They commissioned me to paint a massive, almost 30-meter by five-meter high wall, celebrating not just the sugar industry, but the Tully area itself as well, including the people who work the land and live there. It’s been wonderful."
Through her murals, Lavinia continues to combine storytelling, natural beauty, and community engagement, creating lasting legacies that bring people together and honour the unique landscapes of North Queensland.
The Forrest Beach Markets returned on 25 May for their first market of the year. What a sight it was, with so many stall options, treats and treasures. There was everything from hand-knitted goods to artistic sculptures, potted plants and even saucy books. A big shout-out to the Forrest Beach Progress Association for keeping market-goers well fed. The barbecue was a smashing success!
The next markets are on 22 June, so if you would like to join this wonderful community as a stallholder, phone: 0437 297 370 to book your spot. Do not miss out on all the fun and friendly beach vibes!
Seventeen-year-old Sophie Johnson is making waves in the healthcare sector, earning recognition as a finalist in the 2025 Queensland Training Awards.
A student at Gilroy Santa Maria College, Sophie is one of only three contenders shortlisted in the School-based Apprentice or Trainee of the Year category for the North Queensland region - an impressive feat given that more than 750 applications were received statewide.
Sophie is the first school-based trainee from Ingham Health Service to participate in the Deadly Start program, an initiative designed to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students in Years 11 and 12 as they gain hands-on experience and formal qualifications in healthcare.
Now in the final months of her traineeship, Sophie reflected on the journey so far.
“It has helped me to define what I want to do when I leave school, and that is work in healthcare and help out my community,” Sophie explained.
“The most rewarding part of the traineeship has been supporting others and as part of the program I have also got to work across all areas of the health service, which has given me a great understanding of the complexities and interconnectedness of healthcare.
“Having that understanding has helped me in being able to communicate with patients, particularly First Nations people in the community.”
Sophie’s contributions haven’t gone unnoticed by her colleagues. Senior Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health worker Diana Friday praised Sophie for her work ethic, community spirit, and natural leadership.
“Sophie has thrived in the healthcare environment and has shown a real passion for helping people and becoming an emerging leader in the community,” Ms Friday said.
“Her passion for helping people has been evident since day one and Sophie has been a great role model for other people in the community and her deep connection to her community has not only shone through in how she has interacted with patients but also her involvement with Vinnies Youth and her efforts in organising yarning circles - she has been a valuable addition to the Ingham Health Service for both staff and patients.”
The winners for the North Queensland region will be announced in July. Regional winners will go on to compete for state honours at the Queensland Training Awards finals in September.
Twelve Italian families from the Herbert River district came together on Monday, the 26th of May, for a heartwarming Italian Family Lunch hosted by the Herbert River RSL, celebrating a tradition now spanning more than 15 years.
The annual event recognises the enduring cultural ties of the Hinchinbrook Shire’s Italian community, many of whom trace their roots to the Friuli and Carnia provinces in northern Italy, about two hours from Venice. These small towns, rich in history and heritage, continue to hold a special place in the hearts of local descendants.
Organised by Flavia and Vanda, the event provided a chance for families to reflect on their shared past and the importance of preserving their culture for future generations. Longtime community members Guido and Corrado led conversations that acknowledged the decline in local Italian families and the need to keep their stories and traditions alive.
Mario Cristante and Roberto Puntil were among those who shared personal stories of growing up in the small village of Friuli, offering touching memories that resonated deeply with the group.
One standout moment came with the story of Pesariis, a town renowned for its clockmakers. From crafting traditional clock towers to developing airport departure boards and fine watches, the legacy of Pesariis continues to shine as a symbol of innovation and craftsmanship.
Adding a visual dimension to the event, George displayed photographs from his recent trip to the region, sparking conversations and fond recollections among attendees.
The lunch was more than just a gathering, it was a celebration of family, memory, and cultural pride. As the families shared food, stories, and laughter, they also renewed their commitment to ensuring that the Italian legacy in the Herbert River region remains strong for generations to come.
From an advertisement for War Savings Certificates, issued by the Department of Information 1 July 1941.
I should no longer excuse myself, as a woman, from facing up to, and thinking about, the full horror that threatens my home, my family, my children.
I believe that if my children are to grow up loving the freedom that I have always loved, then the time must come for me to fight as best I can.
I believe that if my husband, son or daughter are at work on War production then their strength, energy and peace of mind are my responsibility because it is on the ability of the worker to produce, and keep on producing through long days, long months and, God forbid, long years that our ultimate peace with happiness rests.
I believe that only then can I face my children and say "I have done all that it lies in my power to save your freedom"
In World War 1 it was said Australian soldiers taught the world what courage meant. In the peace and security of Australia those who were unable to join proved their patriotism by lending to the Commonwealth War Loans on a scale which made Australia famous for its generosity.
Since 1951, Carey Group has been more than just an accounting firm. We’ve been a trusted partner in the financial journeys of individuals, families and businesses across Queensland. With offices in Townsville, Brisbane, Cairns, Ingham and Malanda, our team combines local knowledge with a commitment to innovation, offering tailored strategies to suit each client’s unique needs.
Our services have evolved over the years to provide a comprehensive suite of financial solutions, including accounting, financial planning, auditing, bookkeeping, business consulting and self-managed super funds (SMSFs). We understand that every client is different, so we make sure our approach is always personal, practical, and proactive.
In 2024, we took an exciting step forward by partnering with Moore Australia (QLD/NNSW), forming Carey Thomson Moore (CTM) Consulting. This joint venture brings together Carey Group’s regional expertise and Moore Australia’s national reach, creating new opportunities for our clients through broader services and deeper insights.
At Carey Group, we pride ourselves on delivering expert, up-to-date advice while staying true to the warmth and care of a family business. Our clients trust us not only for technical know-how but for the personal relationships we build along the way.
Whether you’re looking to grow your business, manage your super, plan for retirement or build wealth for the future, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Our experienced team provides the strategies and support you need to make confident financial decisions at every stage of life.
Carey Group is proud to serve a diverse range of clients across regional and metropolitan Queensland. We’re committed to helping you stay on top of your finances with integrity, care and a focus on your success.
I Love Boutique:
Heading to the Ingham Show? Let I Love Boutique style you in comfort and class! Discover easy-to-wear pieces like cosy knits, stylish jeans, and elevated tees that feel as good as they look. Their outfits are simple yet dressy. Perfect for a day at the show and easy to adapt to the changing weather. Dress them up or down with just a few tweaks! Whether you're relaxing or showing up in style, you'll find something that fits your vibe. Shop local, look amazing, and feel confident in every moment. Visit I Love Boutique, where comfort meets class.
Lisa Maree:
Step into timeless style with Lisa Maree jeans—where classic meets modern sophistication. Their denim is designed for real women who want to look smart and feel confident every day. Whether you're dressing up or keeping it casual, Lisa Maree's jeans selection offers the perfect balance of practicality and polish. They're your go-to for effortless style: flattering fits, quality fabrics, and that wear-anywhere versatility. From show days to everyday, these jeans work hard and look great doing it. Shop Ingham Show local and choose Lisa Maree, because great denim is always a good idea.
MENZ:
MENZ isn’t just about tough work gear! They’ve got your casual style covered too. When you head to the Ingham Show, shop local and stay warm this winter with their range of long sleeve shirts. Perfect for those chilly days, their casual line offers comfort without sacrificing practicality. Pair your shirt with a sturdy pair of jeans for a look that’s both functional and stylish. Supporting local has never looked so good. Shop local and drop by MENZ for your ideal show fit, one that's built for the outdoors, made for real life, and perfect for our North Queensland winter.
Friends of the Wild:
Get show-ready with Friends of the Wild, where western spirit meets free-spirited fun! Whether you're headed to the pavilions, laughing with mates, or dancing under the stars, our boho-western styles bring all the right energy for your Ingham Show moments. Think flowy fabrics, bold prints, fringe, and flair that moves with you.
"We’re all about celebrating your wild heart and dreamer’s soul – just bring that along, we’ve got the rest! From blouses to brims, layers to looks, we’ll have you feeling fabulous and show-stopping."
Shop local and let your style roam free with Friends of the Wild.
As part of a nationwide upgrade, construction has commenced on the nbn network infrastructure of both residential properties and businesses in Ingham with additional fibre connections set to be installed over the coming weeks.
Ventia has been working away to strengthen the nbn network of the community on behalf of nbn, with crews assuring they’ll be taking extra care to minimise disruptions during the construction period.
Residents are advised there may be some temporary footpath and/or road closures in the area as well as an increase in dust and noise in association with the construction and when possible, residents have been kindly asked to park vehicles in private driveways.
Construction will take place during the scheduled hours of work between Monday to Friday, 7am to 7pm and Saturday 7am to 1pm and Ventia has confirmed the ongoing works will have no impact on the community’s existing telecommunications network.
The proposed improvements will entail the installation of cables through existing underground pipes or existing overhead power poles, digging and/or drilling on public property such as under footpaths or on nature strips and the installation of pits, similar to existing telecommunication pits.
“We will endeavour to restore any land affected during construction to a condition similar to what it was before the activity began,” stated Ventia Group in a release issued to local businesses.
“Please take care when near a construction zone and always follow pedestrian and traffic management instructions.”
Ventia encourages concerned residents to contact the group via email stakeholder.telco@ventia.com or phone 1300 275 799.
Angelo Cavaliere has been recently welcomed into the Community Support Centre team to act as a new facilitator to coordinate the organisation’s Senior Men’s Social Group.
With a wealth of experience under his belt, Angelo’s contributions have already been praised by the Community Support Centre, with Elderly Inclusion Facilitator, Desley Di Bella, noting Angelo has a fantastic eye for growth and a vested interest in ensuring the success of the Senior Men’s Social Group.
“Angelo is experienced in community work and is looking forward to working with men to create a sense of belonging and acceptance,” Desley explained.
With a rich calendar of events scheduled each week, senior members of the Hinchinbrook Shire are warmly invited to pop on down to the Community Support Centre at 71 Townsville Road to enjoy a plethora of social activities.
The next spectacular Seniors Morning Coffee Club will be held on Friday, the 6th of June at the Noorla Bowls Club from 9:30am to 11:30am – RSVP to Desley on 07 4776 1822.
Weekly, the Community Support Centre hosts a Tuesday Café Crawl (RSVP to Mei 07 4776 1822), a Thursday Senior Men’s Social Group, Wednesday Canasta Cards, and Thursday Mahjong, with each activity growing in popularity as the weeks go on.
Call the Community Support Centre on 07 4776 1822 and ask for Desley or Mei for all inquires on upcoming events.
Everyone loves to see Humpback and Minke whales breaching out of the water, and from June each year, these magnificent creatures pass through the Hinchinbrook waters on their way north to the warm waters of the Coral Sea, before making the return trip months later, heading back to Antarctic waters.
It is important to be aware that you cannot approach a whale within 100 metres side-on, and 300 metres from the front or rear. It is advisable that if you see whales approaching, you move slowly out of their way and switch off your motor until they have passed. Sometimes they are curious about humans and may approach your vessel while you are drifting—in which case, enjoy the moment and take lots of pictures. Please do not restart your motor until they have moved well away.
If you have any recent or old photos, please upload them to HappyWhale. Just go to www.happywhale.com and be part of a global tracking and sighting community of aquatic enthusiasts! Your contributions can help document migration patterns and record sightings of other creatures too—not just whales, but penguins, seals, sharks, and even polar bears.
Contributed by Steve Whipps, Commander Qf14 Lucinda Coast Guard.
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