Australian sugar cane farmers will soon trade one tropical paradise for another as they explore first-hand the implications of Brazil being ranked number one and two in the world for sugarcane and ethanol production. 

Queensland sugarcane farmer Paul Atkinson is embarking on the 10-day tour for a second time because he is interested in how Brazil’s harvest and mills operate.  

“Brazil is our main competition,” Mr Atkinson said, adding its use of sugar to produce ethanol affected world sugar prices and thus Australia’s own sugarcane industry. 

While sugar may be Australia’s second-largest export crop after wheat, with 3-4 million tonnes (MT) valued at $1.5 to $2.5 billion headed overseas each year, these figures are dwarfed by Brazil’s. 

The South American nation produces about half of the world’s total sugar exports at more than 32MT per year, according to the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), surpassing Australia’s total sugarcane production. 

To put things further into perspective, for every tonne of sugarcane produced down under, Brazil produces about 22 tonnes, with about half of this sugar then being used to make ethanol thanks to the Brazilian government’s mandates on fuel mixes. 

Stephen Ryan, the CEO of Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR) and Australian Cane Farmers Association (ACFA), said the Brazil tour would give Aussies opportunities to meet with Brazilian farmers, processors, researchers and more to learn about the dynamics of the agricultural giant’s sugar cane and bio-energy industries. 

“Brazil, as of 2023, had 350 operational sugarcane plants, of which almost two-thirds produced both sugar and ethanol and almost a third were just for ethanol, USDA figures show,” Mr Ryan said. 

“The country made 35.3 billion litres of ethanol in 2023-24, and the demand for biofuel is only likely to increase with the Brazilian government amping up incentives to also produce sustainable aviation fuel to curb the country’s CO2 emissions. 

“But Brazil will be motivated to lean towards non-sugar alternatives like corn to meet the demands for biofuel as current world market prices make exporting sugar more commercially attractive.” 

As Mr Atkinson explained, extra Brazilian sugar on the world market made Australia’s product less valuable as per the mechanisms of supply and demand. 

The Cane Tour to Brazil itinerary includes visiting Sao Paulo, where innovation drives sugarcane cultivation and processing. Sao Paulo is home to the headquarters of Brazil’s largest sugarcane improvement company, the Sugarcane Technology Centre (STC). 

The STC owns the largest germplasm bank in the world, is aiming to double Brazil’s average annual sugarcane yields from 75MT per hectare to 150MT per hectare by 2040 and is working to create a synthetic seed to scrap needing to use sugarcane cuttings for planting.

Other highlights of the tour, organised and led by Australian ex-pat Sally Thomson in collaboration with Nuffield Brazil Farming Network, include a trip to the world’s largest corn bioenergy plant, hearing from startups working on Brazil’s agribusiness problems, and an unforgettable down-day to relish Bonito’s pristine rivers and natural wonders.

The cost is $3440 per person, based on twin-share, which includes all domestic travel, accommodation, meals, and visits. 

The tour, kicking off in late March, is limited to 20 participants to ensure a quality experience for all. 

To register your interest, contact Shirley Norris by phoning 0447 608 158 or emailing farmers700plus@gmail.com

The Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR)’s In a Good Place (IAGP) program is inviting applications for grants up to $20,000 for community-driven projects that strengthen the mental, social and/or emotional health and well-being of people living in remote, rural and regional places, particularly in farming communities.

This round, the IAGP program has $290,000 to support initiatives or activities that prevent or respond to mental well-being concerns.

Priorities include increasing mental health education and understanding to reduce stigma, supporting people to build connections and reduce social isolation, and encouraging, supporting and enabling people to seek help for their mental health.

Thanks to FRRR’s donor partners, community groups and not-for-profit organisations (NFPs) can apply for grants through two streams of funding:

1. Community wellbeing: for projects that focus on strengthening the general mental health and wellbeing of people in remote, rural and regional communities.

2. Farmers and farming communities: for projects specifically supporting the mental health and well-being of farmers and the communities they live in.

Jill Karena, Head of Granting at FRRR, said that while Australia’s farming communities are incredibly vibrant and resilient, even the strongest person needs help from time to time.

“There is a legacy of silence and perceived stigma around speaking up and seeking support for mental health issues. Thankfully, in rural communities, this narrative is shifting,” Ms Karena said.

“Together with our funding partners, we are supporting local groups to be part of that momentum and continue to challenge and positively shift perceptions about mental health in their remote, rural and regional communities.

“We want to fund initiatives that foster open and honest discussions around mental health, support the social and emotional well-being of vulnerable community members, and encourage farmers and other community members concerned with their mental health to seek support.

“We look forward to reading the project ideas put forward by community groups and not-for-profits across the country and to be inspired by their positive, proactive and community-focussed mental health initiatives,” Ms Karena said.

Groups seeking support must first lodge an Expression of Interest (EOI), which is due 14 February.

Final applications from those shortlisted are due by the 11th of March.

Learn more at: https://frrr.org.au/funding/place/in-a-good-place/

Simon Hood
Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

The New Year has heralded an unwelcome change in global sugar price sentiment, initially prompted by the world market getting more comfortable that the first quarter supply of sugar was tight but manageable. This resulted in a gradual deterioration of the ICE #11 March 25 futures premium over the May contract.

The speculative money sensed the path of least resistance was down, so they had been getting increasingly aggressive with their short-selling strategies. This was being met with scale-down trade buying. Then the rumour – and now fact – that the Indian government is issuing export licences for 1 million tonnes of white sugar, broke the market to the downside.

India's choice to issue export licences at this time is puzzling. Wilmar has been revising down sugar estimates for the current harvest due to a poor growing season combined with an increase in crop disease, and an increase in ethanol production. This results in a low domestic stock position of what is an important base energy source for a large proportion of the population.

With this harvest approximately 50 per cent complete, production is running behind schedule, and the increased disease is resulting in poor cane quality. Indian domestic sugar prices have rallied and, at current levels, it appears there is no incentive for sugar to be exported. The notion that the government would subsidise exports is a possibility but there appears little incentive for that to occur.

The wrap-up of the 24 season for Brazil is all but done, with the final sugar production estimated to be just under 40mt. Rain in Brazil has been reasonable over the last couple of months so there is some alleviation from the dry growing season of 24.

The current forecast for Brazil's 25 crop is for a large 42.5m tonnes of sugar production. The increase is based largely on the assumption of a 52 per cent sugar to ethanol mix (24 season was 48 per cent).

So after a long period at the end of last year with minimal market news, the New Year has started with a flurry. How this plays out is yet to be determined. The structure of futures prices is relatively flat so the current consensus of the market is an each-way bet.

Fortunately, the AUD has weakened significantly over the past couple of months, which has dulled the impact of the falling futures market. However, at 62 cents, the AUD is at levels that historically have proven good buying, so it could be vulnerable to a rally on the back of USD weakness linked to the changing mood of Trump.

While bananas might steal the tropical spotlight, it’s the property market in Regional Queensland—ripe with growth and opportunity—that quietly became 2024’s true success story.

In 2024, Regional Queensland's property market showed notable growth, with property values increasing by 12.1% over the year. This trend was particularly evident in key regional hubs. According to The Australian Financial Review, Rockhampton led the way with a 9.2% quarterly growth in values, followed by Townsville (8.34%), Gladstone (6.74%), and Mackay (6.19%).

In the Hinchinbrook Shire, the market kept pace with this regional upswing. Data from Real Estate Investar showed that Ingham, the administrative heart of the region, recorded a 14.45% increase in its median house listing price over the past year, reaching $285,000. Over the last two years, this figure rose by 16.32%, highlighting sustained growth in the area.

The demand for property in Regional Queensland was fuelled by several factors. The Australian reported that interstate migration from pricier markets played a key role, as did the appeal of a more affordable and relaxed lifestyle. Moreover, the expansion of business operations into regional areas contributed to the surge.

However, not all parts of Queensland experienced the same momentum. For example, The Courier Mail noted a 20.7% drop in building approvals on the Gold Coast, reflecting challenges in the construction sector despite a broader statewide recovery. This decline is a concerning trend, especially given the ongoing housing shortage in the area.

Overall, 2024 marked a significant year for Regional Queensland's property market, with the Hinchinbrook region capitalising on the momentum. Strong demand, limited supply, and economic shifts played key roles in shaping the market's positive trajectory.

Styling your home effectively can significantly enhance its appeal to potential buyers, leading to quicker sales and potentially higher offers. According to The Urbane Property Stylist, "styling your home for sale is about creating a space that allows buyers to envision themselves living there."

Declutter and Depersonalise
Begin by removing personal items and excess belongings. This creates a neutral environment where buyers can imagine their own lives unfolding. As noted by The Urbane Property Stylist, "how to declutter your home for sale? It’s simple. Have less stuff."

Enhance Curb Appeal
First impressions matter. Ensure your garden is tidy and lawns are mowed, and consider a fresh coat of paint for the front door. These small investments can make a significant difference.

Light and Bright
Maximise natural light by opening curtains and blinds during inspections. Use mirrors strategically to create a sense of space and brightness.

Modern Touches on a Budget
Updating fixtures like handles, taps, and light fittings can modernise a space without a hefty price tag. Additionally, repainting walls in neutral tones provides a fresh and contemporary feel.

Professional Styling
While DIY styling is cost-effective, investing in professional property styling can yield substantial returns. According to an article in The Daily Telegraph, not staging homes can lead to a significant reduction in final selling prices, as professionally staged homes attract more interest from potential buyers.

By implementing these strategies, you can present your home in the best possible light, attracting more potential buyers and achieving a favourable sale outcome.

Summer can be as tough on gardens as it is on people. Blazing sun, unexpected downpours, and shifting soil conditions create a perfect storm of challenges for even the most seasoned gardeners. But with a few smart strategies, your garden can beat the heat and burst with life all summer long.

Start from the Ground Up
Great gardens grow from the ground up, and the secret lies in healthy soil. Think of soil as the lifeline for plants—holding nutrients, retaining moisture, and anchoring roots. Australia’s intense summer weather, combined with frequent watering, can strip the soil of nutrients, compact it, or leave it parched. This weakens plants and makes them more susceptible to pests, diseases, and heat stress.

To give your soil a fighting chance, enrich it with organic matter like compost. This improves its structure, allowing it to hold more water and essential nutrients. Healthy soil also nurtures beneficial microorganisms that help break down organic materials, making nutrients more available to plants. With nutrient-rich soil, plants grow stronger, develop deeper roots, and are better equipped to handle extreme conditions.

Mulch: Your Garden’s Summer Shield
Once the soil is healthy, a good layer of mulch is your garden’s best defence against the summer heat. Mulch helps lock in moisture, regulates soil temperature, and shields delicate roots from the harsh sun. It’s also a natural weed suppressant, making garden maintenance easier.

Before mulching, ensure the soil is well-watered. Spread a layer of mulch 5–10 cm thick, keeping it away from the base of plants to prevent rot. This simple step can make a big difference in how your garden handles summer’s ups and downs.

Pick Plants that Love the Heat
Choosing plants suited to your climate is essential for a flourishing garden. In the Wet and Dry Tropics, such as North Queensland, vibrant flowers like petunias, coleus, and marigolds thrive in the heat. For vegetables, cucumbers and tomatoes make great choices, while herbs like lemongrass and mint add a fresh, tropical touch.

By tailoring your garden to the climate and giving it a solid foundation, you can transform even the hottest summer days into an opportunity for growth. With healthy soil, smart mulching, and the right plant choices, your garden will thrive—and so will your love for gardening.

Keep It Tidy and Pest-Free
A little maintenance goes a long way when it comes to keeping your garden in peak condition. Regularly pruning dead or diseased branches and removing fading blooms encourages new growth and improves airflow around your plants, helping them stay healthy in summer’s heat.
Pests can be a gardener’s nemesis during warmer months, but with a few smart choices, you can stay ahead of them. Keep an eye out for common culprits like stink bugs, aphids, grasshoppers, and fruit flies. To naturally repel pests, consider planting marigolds, lavender, basil, or rosemary—these plants don’t just look and smell great; they’re nature’s pest deterrents.

The real estate market at Forrest Beach remains quite fluid compared to the slowing of the market seen in the Southeast of the state. Venables Real Estate is still receiving many out-of-town enquiries from both investors and buyers looking to move to the area. There is a good mix of retirees and young families, as well as professionals looking to live in the friendly coastal community. Many feel that the area is a safe and welcoming community to either raise their family or retire to.

The owner of Venables Real Estate said a safe community is a huge reason why Forrest Beach is so popular.

“Being safe is a huge thing, especially for families and children growing up, but also with people on their own, or older people. Having a safe community in which to live is a major point in why they would stay.”

During COVID Venables Real Estate saw a positive impact on the real estate market at Forrest Beach with the median house price increasing to $360,000 (an increase of $120,000 over the past four years) and land valuations increasing across the region. Modern, low-set, concrete block homes are still in high demand, and they have a waiting list of buyers wanting to move to the area.

Increased interest from interstate investors is having a positive impact on Venables Real Estate. Mary said it allows for additional rental properties to be added to their listings.

Mary also said that the days of buyers looking for renovation projects are over.

“Many of our clients are looking for homes that they can walk in and put their feet up,” she said.

“Properties with renovated kitchens and bathrooms are seen favourably by buyers, as it reflects value for money; whilst large garages with high vehicle access are highly sought after for boat and caravan storage.

“Above all, buyers are looking to escape the flashy tourist beaches like the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Airlie Beach or Port Douglas. They enjoy the relaxed, friendly community and the pristine beach that Forrest Beach has to offer, while still being able to access all of the necessary amenities.”

Contributed with thanks to Venables Real Estate

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Ingham’s Australian Air Force Cadet (AAFC) 103 Squadron resumes this Friday 31st January and Flight Lieutenant and Commanding Officer (CO) Rodger Bow is looking forward to another year.

Rodger Bow has been with the 103 Squadron for 36 years and what keeps him coming back is the working with the cadets and seeing them grow up and mature.

With the Air Force Cadets, cadets learn a wide variety of skills.

“They learn field craft which includes putting up tents, building fires and camping activities, we are now into drone technology, so cadets build drones and fly the drones,” said CO Rodger Bow.

“But it’s all about discipline, the AAFC are the primary youth organisation in Australia and disciplines part of it.”

Cadets also learn skills in the classroom too and last year the 103 Squadron implemented a new curriculum, and CO Rodger Bow said it includes everything.

AAFC is not just learning in the classroom; they get to use those skills on bivouacs.

“We join up with Townsville, Charters Towers and Ayr and we go to a scout camp down in Bluewater. Or we go out to Macrossan Training Area at Charters Towers.

“They live in tents while they are there, they sleep on the ground in their sleeping bag.

“Also, once a year we go to Ayr for a weekend of firearms training. Cadets shoot .22 Calibre Rifles and the best part is they're trained to shoot load, clear the weapons and things like that, they are taught properly.”

To become a part of the Australian Air Force Cadets you must be 13, or be turning 13 before the 31st December 2025.

The AAFC runs every Friday night 6.30pm – 10.30pm during school terms, and fees cost $160 a year for the first year, but following that $100, all uniform is included.

The 103 Squadron are currently recruiting up until the 31st March, and CO Rodger Bow encourages any that are thinking of signing up, to come and have a tour of the squadron.

Location: Ingham Airport Entrance, Townsville Road, Ingham, QLD, 4850
Apply online: https://www.airforcecadets.gov.au/how-to-join/wings/1-wing-aafc-nth-qld/103-squadron-ingham

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The Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre has extended a warm invitation to locals with a love for both caffeine and socialisation to attend Chat Room!

A newly introduced group working to connect the community, Chat Room meets every Tuesday and Thursday from 9:30am to 10:30am at 52 Mcilwraith Street, Ingham. In the interest of making connecting with neighbours easier, the event does not require registration or signups – instead, community members are encouraged to drop in within the hour and have a cuppa!

“The aim of these groups is fostering social connectedness for adults,” shared the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre.

What: Chat Room
When: every Tuesday and Thursday, 9:30am to 10:30am
Where: 52 Mcilwraith Street, Ingham
More Information: call 4776 1822 or email communitysupport@hcsc.org.au

Losing a beloved pet can be a stressful experience, but the Hinchinbrook Shire Council is here to help. The Council’s pound provides a safe, temporary haven for impounded animals and offers clear steps for owners to reclaim their pets.

Owners have three to five working days to collect their animals, depending on registration and microchipping requirements. If unclaimed, these animals become available for rehoming after 2pm on their exit date with the full list of currently impounded animals available online at www.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au/community-environment/pets-and-animals/impounded-animals/.

Want to give a pet a forever home? You can register your interest in rehoming with the Council before noon on the exit date. Adopting a pet requires completing a simple application and paying a registration fee.

To report a lost or found animal, contact the Council by calling 4776 4600 or emailing council@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au.

Vixen, a beautiful 15-month-old dog, has been patiently waiting for her forever home for over 400 days. This energetic and loving girl, weighing in at 25kgs, is ready to fill your life with joy and excitement. With her tall and agile frame, Vixen is the perfect companion for an active household that can match her spirited enthusiasm for toys, long walks, and playful activities.

A social dog, Vixen thrives on human interaction and loves to explore her surroundings. After burning off some energy with a few zoomies, she’s happy to curl up for a cozy cuddle session, making her the ultimate companion for those who appreciate both adventure and relaxation.

After such a long wait, it’s time for Vixen to find the loving home she deserves. While she may show initial excitement during a meet, with the right guidance, she’ll quickly settle in and provide endless love and loyalty in return. If you’re looking for an active, loving, and snuggly addition to your family, Vixen is the one! Come meet her and see why she’s ready to be the perfect fit for your home. Let’s make sure her wait is finally over!

To meet Vixen, please fill out a DOG and PUPPY Animal enquiry form with Angel-Paws at: https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html.

Vixen's adoption fee is $300 and she will join your home DESEXED, MICRO-CHIPPED, with up to date VACCINATIONS, FLEA/TICK/INTESTINAL WORM treated and on PROHEART

Adoption Details:
DOB: 12/07/2023
Sex: Female
Breed: Bullarab x
Kid friendly: Yes - Older
Cat Friendly: Untested
Other dogs: Yes - Very slow introduction
Fences: 6ft
BIN: BIN0000268254643

Who would like a cuppa? The Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre’s regular Seniors Morning Tea events continue to provide elderly residents with a friendly, welcoming environment to socialise and build new connections.

Held every second Friday from 9:30am to 11:30am at the Support Centre located at 71 Townsville Road, the morning often stages a guest speaker as well as plenty of games and an enjoyable morning tea for just $3 per person. The Support Centre also offers transportation to the event around Ingham who may struggle to make their own way.

As spaces are limited, RSVPs are required and can be made through calling 4776 1822.

The Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre runs with the dedicated help and support of 40 registered volunteers who serve at both the Seniors Morning Tea event and many other of the centre’s wonderful activities.

What: Seniors Morning Tea
When: every second Friday, 9:30am to 11:30am
Where: Support Centre, 71 Townsville Road
More Information: call 4776 1822 or email communitysupport@hcsc.org.au

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As part of the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre, the Men’s Social Group will host a selection of regular activities within the community, including one set for this Tuesday, the 28th of January.

A FREE excursion bus will depart from the Support Centre located at 71 Townsville Road and will travel to Cardwell with stops scheduled for the Historic Telegraph, and the Post Office before arriving at the SeaView Café for a bite to eat and then heading home to Ingham.

“Are you a man over 60 or 55 if you identify as ATSI, looking for a place to belong, connect and share good times?” shared Hinchinbrook Community Support.

“Whether you’re feeling socially isolated or simply seeking a supportive and welcoming environment, we offer a space to meet other men, enjoy meaningful conversations, and participate in fun activities.”

To access additional details on how to register for the excursion, please reach out to the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre on 4776 1822 or email communitysupport@hcsc.org.au.

What: Men’s Social Group Cardwell Excursion
When: Tuesday the 28th of January
Where: meet at the Support Centre, 71 Townsville Road
More Information: call 4776 1822 or email communitysupport@hcsc.org.au

As announced last November, the commencement of physical dredging operations for Port Hinchinbrook’s One Mile Creek officially began on Monday the 6th of January 2025 to enhance the local waterway.

Approximately 990 tonnes of material will be removed from the area and a 100m exclusion zone has been outlined around the site to ensure the safety of all water users and the stabilisation of the batter slopes and the seabed.

Although the Port Hinchinbrook Boat Ramp will be closed during the physical dredging period, the Cassowary Coast Regional Council encourages residents to utilise alternative boat ramp locations at Marine Parade, Menunga Creek or Fishers Creek.

Weather pending, the works will be completed before Saturday the 1st of February with working periods dependent on tidal variations.

The construction of the Taylors Beach revetment wall officially began Monday the 13th of January, with completion expected by Monday, the 24th of March. This important project will help protect the local coastline and improve the area’s resilience to coastal erosion.

As part of the works, the foreshore playground and surrounding area will be temporarily closed to the public for safety reasons. Residents and visitors are advised to follow any signage or instructions provided by the contractors working on-site.

Council acknowledges the disruption this may cause and appreciates the community’s patience and cooperation during the construction period. The finished revetment wall will significantly enhance the long-term stability and safety of Taylors Beach, benefiting both residents and visitors to the area. Further updates will be provided as necessary.

Council thanks everyone for their understanding and support during this essential work.