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Council’s April Ordinary Meeting highlighted the practical work being delivered across the Hinchinbrook Shire, while also setting clear direction for future planning, infrastructure investment and community wellbeing.

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A few of the matters raised and discussed are as follows:

Our boat ramps continue to be a vital asset for both locals and visitors, supporting recreational boating, fishing and tourism.

As of 31 March 2026, sand removal has been carried out 20 times at Forrest Beach and 12 times at Taylors Beach this financial year, with additional cleaning works completed at Dungeness. The total year‑to‑date cost for boat ramp maintenance and sand removal across the Shire is nearing $40,000. Ramp maintenance costs are rising in comparison to years past, as the need for intervention due to changing coastal processes, particularly increasing sand drift, is increasing.

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Tenders for insurance repairs at the J.L. Kelly Theatre and the Hinchinbrook Aquatic Centre have closed and are currently undergoing evaluation, with a view to determination shortly once Queensland Reconstruction Authority requirements are met.

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The scope of works authorised is limited to replacement of infrastructure, furnishings and equipment on a like‑for‑like basis. We are hopeful a recommendation will come before Council by the end of May, allowing these important repairs to move forward as soon as possible.

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Significant focus was also placed on improving road safety and access across the Shire. Council approved the submission of a funding application to the Australian Government’s Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program for an upgrade of the Hayleys Causeway on Baillies Road, Upper Stone.

This project, valued at $800,000, will improve safety and reliability for road users. Council also confirmed its commitment to a $160,000 co‑contribution in the 2026–2027 budget should the funding application be successful.

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Supporting local creativity and placemaking remains a priority. Council approved a Regional Arts Development Fund grant for a project designed to transform the laneway between Council Chambers and I Love in Lannercost Street into a vibrant community space featuring interactive artwork and design.

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This initiative, brought to the table by local business owner Amber Pollock, will feature interactive artworks designed and painted by local high school students in collaboration with a local artist. The project celebrates local identity, encourages visitation and strengthens community pride.

Council also resolved to adopt the 10‑year review of the Hinchinbrook Shire Planning Scheme and commence Phase 1 amendments. These targeted changes focus on improved housing outcomes, flood‑resilient growth areas and reducing unnecessary regulatory burden, while Phase 2 will address longer‑term strategic planning matters.

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Finally, Council welcomed $1.108 million in joint State and Federal funding under the Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements to deliver a Community Health and Wellbeing Package. This funding will support recovery, resilience and wellbeing initiatives across the Shire, with an action plan currently in development. There will be more on this, so watch this space.

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These decisions reflect Council’s continued commitment to maintaining essential infrastructure, supporting our community and planning responsibly for the future of Hinchinbrook. Want to know more just head to the Council’s website and type in www.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au/our-council/meetings-and-minutes/

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Recently Biosecurity Queensland officers found and stopped a person selling Amazon frogbit locally.

Amazon frogbit (Limnobium laevigatum) is a free-floating plant that, at first glance, appears harmless. With its small, round leaves and delicate white flowers, it can even look attractive in garden ponds.

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But beneath that calm surface lies a fast-growing invasive species capable of causing significant environmental and economic damage.

Once established, Amazon frogbit spreads rapidly, forming dense mats across the water.

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These mats block sunlight from reaching native aquatic plants, reducing oxygen levels and degrading water quality.

This has a direct impact on fish, turtles, and other wildlife that depend on healthy waterways.

It can also restrict water flow, increase the risk of flooding and create breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

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For landholders and primary producers, the impacts can be equally concerning. Infestations clog irrigation systems, hinder stock access to water, and increase management costs.

In a region where waterways are so closely tied to livelihoods and lifestyle, this is not a problem we can afford to ignore.

The most effective way to manage Amazon frogbit is early detection and rapid response.

Small outbreaks can often be controlled before they spread, but once the plant becomes widespread, eradication becomes far more difficult and costly.

Residents can play a key role by making themselves aware of what it looks like, checking drains and waterways on their properties, and by never releasing aquarium or pond plants into natural water systems.

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If you suspect Amazon frogbit is present, please report it to our biosecurity team so appropriate action can be taken.

Protecting our waterways is a shared responsibility.

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By staying vigilant and acting early, we can help prevent Amazon frogbit from becoming yet another introduced species taking hold, choking our waterways and infesting our agricultural lands.

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Hinchinbrook Rotary Club and NQ Legacy came together for an evening of remembrance and giving. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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On Wednesday 29 April, the Hinchinbrook Rotary Club and NQ Legacy came together for an evening of remembrance and giving.

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“We will remember them.”

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The group held a small remembrance ceremony before dinner. Speeches and a raffle followed the evening meal.

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The night concluded with the Hinchinbrook Rotary Club presenting NQ Legacy with a cheque for $500. Adding a light-hearted touch, the men in attendance underwent a military inspection, and those who failed were asked to donate a gold coin to Rotary. All failed inspection, much to their collective good humour.

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Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Timothy (Tim) Nicholls MP, alongside Wade Chiesa MP, visited the Ingham Hospital to announce the accommodation fast-tracking. Photo credit: Wade Chiesa’s Offices

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Plans to deliver new staff accommodation at Ingham Hospital have been accelerated, in a move expected to strengthen healthcare services across the Hinchinbrook region.

Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa said the fast-tracking of 12 new accommodation units marks a significant step forward, following strong community advocacy and ongoing concerns around workforce shortages.

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“During the by-election, I heard firsthand how important it is to have suitable accommodation for our health staff,” Mr Chiesa said. “With this in mind, I raised the issue with the Health Minister and am pleased to see that the delivery of 12 additional accommodation units at Ingham Hospital is being fast-tracked.”

The announcement builds on earlier concerns raised in March, when a lack of housing was identified as a major barrier to attracting and retaining healthcare workers in the region.

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“Health services cannot grow without secure, appropriate accommodation for staff,” Mr Chiesa said at the time. “Right now, there are just 17 onsite beds available and that’s simply not enough to support the doctors, nurses and healthcare workers our region relies on every day.”

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In regional communities like Hinchinbrook, access to housing can determine whether healthcare professionals choose to come, stay or leave.

“It’s simple: no accommodation means no workforce, and no workforce means no healthcare,” he said.

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The fast-tracked delivery of the new units will replace outdated housing and make better use of the existing hospital site, while also helping to attract more health workers to the region sooner.

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Mr Chiesa said the outcome reflects the strength of local voices pushing for change.

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“At the end of the day, this isn’t about buildings, it’s about ensuring our community has access to the healthcare it deserves.”

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Main construction is now underway on the Bruce Highway in Tully between Dean Road and Tully High School, delivering important safety upgrades as part of the Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program. Photo source: Department of Transport and Main Roads

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A major safety upgrade on the Bruce Highway at Tully is now underway ahead of schedule, bringing forward long-awaited improvements for one of Far North Queensland’s key transport corridors.

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The project, located between Dean Road and Tully State High School, forms part of the jointly funded $9 billion Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program, the largest single investment ever made into the highway.

Early works began in August last year, with main construction now ramping up on the $25 million upgrade, which is expected to be completed by mid-2027, weather and construction conditions permitting.

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The upgrade will include road and shoulder widening, a new wide centre line treatment, intersection improvements at Dean Road, vegetation clearing, drainage works and culvert installations, all aimed at reducing the risk of crashes along the busy stretch.

Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said the investment highlighted a strong commitment to improving safety along the Bruce Highway.

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“Works to improve the Bruce Highway are underway across the state, funded by this historic $9 billion investment,” Minister King said.

“The Albanese Government is deeply committed to improving road safety on the Bruce to help save lives and support the communities and industries that rely on this critical route.

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“We are providing the long-term certainty needed to make the Bruce Highway safer, stronger and more resilient to FNQ’s wet season.”

Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg said the program was already delivering benefits across the state.

“Safety along the Bruce is receiving a major boost under the landmark $9 billion program,” Minister Mickelberg said.

“Queenslanders are seeing the benefits as we accelerate these safety focused works at priority locations north of Gympie, and we’ll continue to drive forward delivering them across the regions.

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“This safety-focused program will play a crucial role complementing various other activities aimed at enhancing flood resilience and capacity along the Bruce Highway.

“Under the Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program, further significant future upgrades will be rolled out strategically across far north Queensland with overall completion targeting 2030.”

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Assistant Minister for Northern Australia and Senator for Queensland Nita Green said improving safety on the Bruce Highway would also support regional economies.

“Upgrading the Bruce Highway improves safety and supports the local economy by ensuring our primary producers and tourism operators can travel across far north Queensland with greater confidence and fewer delays,” Senator Green said.

“By targeting this high-risk stretch between Dean Road and Tully High School, we are delivering the modern, high-standard infrastructure that the Cassowary Coast deserves.

“This is what delivering for regional Queensland looks like.”

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Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa welcomed the early start to construction, describing it as a positive step for the local community.

“The early start on works is welcome news for the Tully community,” Mr Chiesa said.

“The Bruce Highway is the lifeline of far north Queensland, and every safety improvement we can make on this corridor matters enormously for local families, commuters and freight operators.

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“Getting this project underway ahead of schedule is exactly the kind of action locals have been calling for, and the Crisafulli Government is delivering.

“I encourage motorists to be patient and observe the changed traffic conditions while these important works are completed, the end result will be a safer road for everyone travelling through Tully.”

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During construction, motorists can expect temporary speed limit reductions, single-lane traffic operations and variable message signage to help manage changed conditions and ensure the safety of both road users and workers.

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Mission Beach Surf Life Saving Club has received more than $30,000 in funding for a new vehicle, boosting its ability to respond and protect locals and visitors along the coastline. Photo source: Mission Beach Surf Life Saving Club

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Just over $30,400 has been allocated to the Mission Beach Surf Life Saving Club through the Queensland Government’s Gambling Community Benefit Fund, supporting the purchase of a new vehicle to enhance frontline operations.

Cassowary Coast Regional Council Mayor Teresa Millwood welcomed the funding, describing it as a valuable investment in community safety.

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“This is a fantastic outcome for Mission Beach Surf Life Saving Club and a strong investment in community safety,” she said.

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“Our surf lifesaving volunteers play a vital role in protecting locals and visitors, and this new vehicle will strengthen their ability to respond when it matters most.”

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In the latest round of the Gambling Community Benefit Fund, approximately $19.5 million was awarded to nearly 800 community organisations with grants of up to $35,000 allocated to support broad range of grassroots initiatives, from facility upgrades and equipment purchases to training programs and community events, all aimed at strengthening local communities.

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Since its inception in 1994, the program has delivered more than $1.3 billion to organisations across Queensland, including sporting clubs, volunteer groups and community services.

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Attorney-General, Minister for Justice and Minister for Integrity Deb Frecklington said the grants would deliver meaningful outcomes for local community clubs and not-for-profit organisations, supporting projects that make a tangible difference in their communities.

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“Grant funding can be life-changing for community groups facing challenges and I congratulate the successful applicants of Round 125,” he said.

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“In a state as large and diverse as Queensland, the work of volunteers and not-for-profits organisations is vital, especially in regional, rural and remote communities.”

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To find out more about the Gambling Community Benefit Fund and how you can apply for future rounds, visit www.justice.qld.gov.au/initiatives/community-grants.

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The Fund aligns with Primary Industries Prosper 2050, Queensland’s 25-year blueprint to build a better future for primary industries, and its goal to boost primary production output to $30 billion by 2030. Photo source: QIC

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The Government has unveiled a $30 million fund aimed at accelerating agricultural innovation across Queensland, as part of a broader push to grow the State’s primary industries sector to $30 billion by 2030.

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The Sowing the Seeds of Farming Innovation Fund will support agri-innovators developing cutting-edge technology for on-farm use, with a focus on boosting productivity, profitability and sustainability. Delivered in partnership with the Queensland Investment Corporation, the fund is expected to fast-track new technologies from concept to application while attracting private investment.

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The initiative forms part of the Government’s broader economic agenda, positioning innovation as a key driver of long-term competitiveness, while also being framed against claims the sector experienced declining support over the past decade.

Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett said innovation would be critical to the future of farming.

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"Sowing the Seeds of Farming Innovation Fund is a game changer for the future of farming because it will deliver the next generation of AgTech to boost on-farm productivity and profitability,” he said.

“We’ve heard loud and clear from industry there’s no shortage of innovation in Queensland, but what’s needed is stronger commercialisation pathways, and greater investment in practical technologies and this election commitment delivers that."

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Treasurer David Janetzki said the fund would strengthen value chains and support long-term growth.

“These targeted investments will not only strengthen Queensland’s primary industry value chains but also position our State's long-term success including global recognition for its practical innovation,” he said.

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Industry groups have welcomed the move, with Queensland Farmers’ Federation CEO Jo Sheppard stressing the importance of getting innovation onto farms quickly.

“It’s critical that we move practical innovations out of the lab and into the paddock, where they can deliver real productivity gains for Queensland producers,” Ms Sheppard said.

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Businesses can submit expressions of interest through the Queensland Investment Corporation website, https://www.qic.com/Sowing-the-Seeds.

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Hello, my name is Sunny, and here are a few things I’d love you to know about me: I can be a little shy at first, so I’ll need my human to show some patience while I settle in. When we first meet, I prefer to be the one to decide when I’m ready for a cuddle, but don’tworry, I do enjoy affection once I feel comfortable.

Treats definitely help break the ice (just saying), and I’m a big fan of gentle head scratches.

I’m quite happy spending time outdoors if that suits your lifestyle, but fair warning... if I think I’ve been invited inside, there’s a very good chance I’ll claim your couch—or even your bed—as my new favourite spot!

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Walks are one of my favourite things, and I’m great on the lead. I’ve also got lovely manners, I’ll sit and wait patiently for my meals, and when food is involved, I’m always extra eager to show off my best behaviour.

If you’re looking for a sweet, well-mannered companion who just needs a little time to shine, I might be your perfect match!

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If you’re interested in meeting me complete an animal enquiry form at: https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html.  

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Included in adoption fee of $600: desexed, micro-chipped, up to date vaccinations, flea/tick/intestinal worm treated & on Proheart.

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DOB: 1/12/2022
Sex: Female
Breed: American bulldog
Colour: White & Black
Kid friendly: Yes
Cat Friendly: Yes
Other dogs: Yes
Fences: 5ft
BIN: BIN0000268254643

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CapA POLAIR Helicopter flying over the coastal regions. Photo credit: Queensland Police

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Aerial policing capability in North Queensland has been strengthened, with POLAIR’s operations in North Queensland have now transitioned to a full operating capability to crack down on serious crime incidents.

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The POLAIR team of Tactical Flight Officers operate across a large area, from Proserpine to Ingham and west to Charters Towers, significantly bolstering the ability of police to respond to critical incidents, tracking stolen vehicles, responding to serious domestic incidents, searching for missing persons and assisting with the arrest of offenders

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Now allowing for continuous coverage, ensuring aerial support remains available even during maintenance periods. Equipped with advanced technology, including Forward Looking Infrared (FLIR) cameras, the helicopters provide real-time information to officers on the ground, improving response times and operational safety.

Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa said the investment reflects a commitment to community safety.

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“The addition of two new POLAIR helicopters demonstrates the Crisafulli Government’s commitment to protecting the safety of Queenslanders by resourcing our Police with the tools they need to fight crime and make our communities safer.”

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Since the beginning of 2025, POLAIR has responded to more than 1,100 calls for service in the region, assisted in hundreds of arrests, and played a key role in responding to serious incidents.

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Members of the Ingham Lions Club gathered at the park before the Ingham ANZAC Day march. Photo sourced: Ingham Lions Club

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The Lions Clubs of North Queensland are making a significant impact on families affected by the devastating floods of February 2025 through their ‘Adopt a Family’ initiative, supported by grants from the Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF). This program aims to assistfamilies who have faced the hardships of natural disasters, providing up to $1,000 per family to help with the purchase of essential items like white goods, bedding, and other necessities from local suppliers.

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The Lions Club of Ingham has proudly received two grants from LCIF following the flooding, enabling them to aid families in their recovery efforts. The geographical reach of this initiative spans from north of Tully to south of Ingham, focusing on those who are in the process of returning to their homes after remediation works.

Since the first grant was awarded in late July 2025, Lions Clubs have successfully assisted 261 families – of approximately 850 individuals – with a total outlay of $224,374 to local suppliers. This financial support has been crucial in enabling families to resettle into their residences, fostering a sense of normalcy after the disruption caused by the floods.

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The generosity of Lions members from around the globe has fuelled this initiative, with donations directed to LCIF specifically for disaster relief efforts. Local Lions Clubs, including Ingham, Lower Herbert Halifax, Cardwell, Tully, and Mission Beach, have played an instrumental role in processing applications and facilitating payments to suppliers.

The support extended by local hubs in Ingham, Tully and Cardwell, as well as the numerous local suppliers, has been invaluable. The Lions acknowledge that the success of this program would not have been possible without the friendly and knowledgeable assistance from these groups.

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As the need for assistance decreases, the Grants program has concluded at the end of this March and applications received by Lions up to and including 31 March 2026 will be processed.

President of the Ingham Lions Club Silvia Poggio said the program brought much hope to the families.

“The “Adopt a Family” program stands as a beacon of hope and resilience for those affected by the floods, demonstrating the power of community support and international solidarity through the Lions Clubs. As the program is now completed, it leaves behind a legacy of compassion and collaboration that can inspire future efforts in disaster recovery.”

This initiative stands as a testament to the spirit of community and resilience, demonstrating how collective efforts can significantly impact those in need during trying times. For more information on the ‘Adopt a Family’ program or to seek assistance, please contact your local Lions Club.

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Contributed with thanks by the Lions Club of Ingham, Pat Lynch Secretary

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At the Ingham ‘Meet the Buyer’ event many local providers and interested persons gathered to hear more about the project. Photo credits: Victoria Velton

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Windlab and the Gugu Badhun Aboriginal Corporation (GBAC) have announced a partnership with Australian Pacific Indigenous Personnel (APIP) to support employment, training and local participation outcomes for the Gawara Baya wind energy project.

The appointment was announced at Windlab’s Gawara Baya Meet the Buyer Industry Roadshow in Charters Towers and Ingham, as the project moves toward construction.

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The partnership supports the co-designed Gawara Baya–Gugu Badhun Employment and Training Strategy, developed through Gugu Badhun cultural leadership and underpinned by a landmark Indigenous Land Use Agreement (ILUA) between Windlab and GBAC. Windlab oversees project delivery and the appointment of major contractors, through which employment and contracting opportunities for the project will be delivered.

APIP will support implementation of the strategy through culturally informed engagement and workforce coordination, helping connect Traditional Owners, local people and regional suppliers with project delivery teams and contractors. The Meet the Buyer Roadshow brought industry, workforce and delivery partners together ahead of construction to share information about upcoming work and participation opportunities.

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Windlab Chief Project Delivery Officer Tom Keddie said the partnership reflects a focus on turning commitments into action.

“At Gawara Baya, cultural leadership and local participation are part of how we do things on Country,” Mr Keddie said.

“Working with GBAC and bringing APIP in early helps ensure opportunities are grounded locally and set up to deliver lasting benefits.”

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Gugu Badhun Aboriginal Corporation RNTBC Chief Executive Officer Allison Hoolihan said APIP’s endorsement reflects a significant step in delivering long-term employment and economic outcomes on Country.

“Gugu Badhun Aboriginal Corporation RNTBC is very happy to announce APIP is an endorsed GBAC business and excited that they will be assisting GBAC and Windlab with the delivery of the Gugu Badhun Gawara Baya Employment Strategy, ILUA commitments and business development throughout the project duration, which will be led by a Gugu Badhun person Noel Gertz,” Ms Hoolihan said.

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“APIP will be leading the engagement on behalf of Gugu Badhun Aboriginal Corporation RNTBC with strong governance structures that allow for GBAC, APIP and Windlab to work alongside each other through collaborative processes and further allow our relationship with APIP and Windlab for the Gawara Baya project to grow through this new phase.

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“This engagement will allow for future employment, skills and training for Gugu Badhun Peoples and further regional development and support to other neighbouring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, whilst supporting Gugu Badhun Nation in our Economic Development, Research and Nation Building.”

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Australian Pacific Indigenous Personnel Owner and Managing Director, Noel Gertz, said the engagement is about supporting practical workforce outcomes on Country.

“Our role is to work alongside GBAC and Windlab to help connect people with real jobs, training and pathways that make sense locally,” Mr Gertz said.

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“Being involved early allows opportunities at Gawara Baya to be shaped with local people, local businesses and culture in mind, and to support outcomes that last beyond construction.”

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Hinchinbrook young people are invited to get creative and show their appreciation for first responders as part of the Young Voices Art Showcase ahead of Thank a First Responder Day on 10 June. Photo supplied

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Young creatives across the Hinchinbrook Shire are being encouraged to pick up their pens, paints and cameras to take part in a nationwide initiative celebrating local heroes.

As part of Thank a First Responder Day on 10 June, children and young people are invited to enter the Young Voices Art Showcase, using creativity to express their gratitude to the first responders who support the community every day.

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From firefighters and paramedics to police and emergency volunteers, the competition shines a light on those who step up in times of need, and the families who stand behind them.

Entries can include drawings, paintings, photography or digital designs, with participants encouraged to reflect themes such as acts of kindness, community connection and messages of thanks.

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The initiative is a chance for Hinchinbrook’s young people to tell their own stories and recognise the role first responders play, particularly in a region that has faced its share of natural disasters.

With prizes up for grabs, including $200 book vouchers, organisers say the focus remains on participation, creativity and community spirit.

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Entries are open now and close on 24 May. Visit fortemaustralia.org.au for more information.

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The recipients of the 2026 Premier’s Anzac Prize have been welcomed home after a two-week journey that pays homage to Australia’s fallen soldiers.  

Eight students and two teachers from across Queensland participated in the trip, and as part of the Prize, students visited memorial sites, war museums and the Anzac Day dawn service in France.  

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Applications for the 2027 Premier’s Anzac Prize are now open.  

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Prize inclusions:

   Return domestic flights to and from Brisbane (if required) & Return international flights

   3-day Brisbane research workshop (January)

   2-week European tour (April)

   GoSafe travel insurance & Visas if required

   Hotel accommodation & Meals

   All local travel, tours and entries fees

   Tickets to the Anzac Day Dawn Service in Villers-Bretonneux

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The 2026 Premier’s Anzac Prize recipients have returned home from a two-week excursion to memorials, battlefields and historic war sites across Europe.  

Recipients of the prestigious prize honour Australia’s Anzac legacy and walk in the footsteps of fallen soldiers at historic war sites in the United Kingdom, Belgium and France.

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The Premier’s Anzac Prize tour culminated at the Anzac Day commemoration service at the Australian National Memorial in Villers-Bretonneux, France.  

The Premier’s Anzac Prize is part of the Government’s excellence and awards programs for high-achieving students, including the Peter Doherty Awards, The Quantum Challenge, Premier’s Reading Challenge, and the inaugural 2026 Westminster Prize.  

Minister for Education John-Paul Langbroek said the tour was a living history lesson and a chance to learn about Queensland and Australian identity.  

“I’m proud to see the 2026 Premier’s Anzac Prize recipients have returned with a passion for Australia’s rich military history,” Minister Langbroek said.  

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“Students from right across the State have taken part in this extraordinary experience to learn, travel and pay respect to the Anzacs.  

“It’s important for all young Queenslanders to understand the sacrifices that were made for the lives we enjoy today.  

“Queensland has been sending students to Europe through the Premier’s Anzac Prize since I introduced this program back in 2013.  

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“My thanks to RSL Queensland, who is a proud sponsor of this Prize, as well as to the State Library of Queensland for their delivery of the Young Historians Workshop and White Gloves Experience, and Queensland Museum for hosting the 2026 Welcome Back Event.”  

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Applications for the 2027 Premier’s Anzac Prize are now open.  

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For details visit the Premier’s Anzac Prize web page.: https://education.qld.gov.au/about-us/budgets-funding-grants/scholarships/premiers-anzac-prize

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2026 Premier’s Anzac Prize student recipients  

Dakota-Lily Cullen-Chambers, Upper Coomera State College

Jessica Hawkins, Moreton Bay College

Isaiah Howell, Bowen State High School

Seth Johnson, Bundaberg State High School

Kurt Lane, St Michael’s College (Merrimac)

Clayton Reddan, Roma State College

Lara Santo, Assumption College Warwick

Georgia White, Maryborough State High School  

Chaperone recipients  

Courtney Trost, Ferny Hills State School

Jake Hartland, Marsden State High School

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With nearly two decades in real estate, Nathan Henderson has built a career grounded in experience, local knowledge, and a genuine understanding of people. After working as an agent for several years, he gained his Principal’s licence in 2007, marking the beginning of a long-standing presence in the Hinchinbrook property market.

Nathan specialises in residential sales, rentals, and rural properties, with a particular appreciation for the people behind each transaction.

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“Residential sales and rentals and rural sales are the bulk of our work and having been around for a while, the people are the best part. We are truly grateful when people are referred to us and we have sold to parents and then children in the same family. Being an agent means helping people navigate an important transition in their life.”

With a rural background, Nathan values getting out on the land and understanding how properties function within their environment and community.  

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“It’s easy to focus too locally… we take care to understand what is happening outside of our area to ensure we are reacting quickly to changes in our market for clients.”

“Understanding what people are aiming to achieve and when, helps us give advice and strategy in selling their property. We assist with the happiest and saddest moments in people's lives and we are always grateful for the trust our clients put in us.”

What advice would you give to first-home buyers looking to settle in the region?

“Avoid the FOMO, don’t rush unless it’s the right place… build a relationship with agents so you have a chance of seeing things as they come on the market.”  

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Mr Blake and students at the Halifax memorial

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On Saturday morning our students and staff took part in the Halifax ANZAC march and ceremony.  

Following a week of learning about the ANZAC Spirit, this was a great opportunity for the students to be a part of a real commemoration. Through the week students read stories and investigated the values needed to be service men and women (especially those in WWI).  

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We made the original ANZAC biscuit, known as ‘hard tack’, and the modern version. Everyone agreed that the modern version is much better! We also tried some other wartime rations; billy tea and ‘bully beef’. Most had had tea but would struggle to drink it without sugar. The consensus of tinned corned beef was ok but not something they would want to eat every day.

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The students found out about the Last Post, laying a wreath, the significance of poppies and rosemary and the correct ways to wear medals.

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The end of the week saw us planning how we could be involved in the Halifax commemoration, and on the 25^th, ANZAC Day, Mr Blake and students proudly attended the Halifax service.

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