By Jo Sheppard, CEO, Queensland Farmers’ Federation

Energy is an essential farm input, alongside water, that underpins much of the agricultural sector across North Queensland. Decisions around water and energy use have the potential to significantly impact farm profitability, productivity and, in turn, long-term farm business sustainability.

In Northern Queensland’s horticulture and sugarcane growing regions, irrigation represents one of the largest energy inputs for producers. Electricity prices, pump efficiency, water delivery systems and emerging automation technologies all influence operational costs. For many producers, even small improvements in efficiency can deliver meaningful gains.

At the same time, energy systems are changing. New energy technologies are emerging on farm, and large-scale energy infrastructure continues to expand across regional communities.

For the Queensland Farmers’ Federation (QFF), ensuring farmers and regional communities have access to reliable and up-to-date information is essential, so they can understand the opportunities and challenges, and make informed decisions about their businesses, their land and their future.

In 2023 QFF launched the Queensland Renewable Energy Landholder Toolkit to help farmers and regional communities begin to better understand the opportunities and risks in relation to hosting renewable energy developments on their land.

To help farmers continue to navigate these conversations around utility-scale renewable energy, as well as other topics such as energy tariff selection, and emerging energy technology options, the Queensland Farmers’ Federation (QFF) delivers the Energy Information Service for Landholders (EISL). EISL is a free, independent phone-line service providing practical, up-to-date support for farmers and landholders, which can be accessed Monday-Friday 8:30am-5pm on 07 3329 7500.

The service connects landholders with reliable information about energy tariffs, emerging technologies, government and industry programs, landholder hosting arrangements, coexistence considerations, and consultation processes. It ensures producers understand both the opportunities and risks and helps them know who to contact when new projects are proposed in their region.

EISL is complemented by The Queensland Ag Energy Hub, a website which provides industry-specific resources tailored to Queensland agriculture. The Hub includes case studies from sectors such as cane and horticulture farms, guidance on energy efficiency upgrades, and practical tools to help producers assess their own energy use. You can visit the Hub at https://www.qldagenergyhub.com.au/

Later this month, QFF’s Energy Engagement and Education Advisor (EEEA), will attend the Queensland Community Energy Forum in Proserpine. The forum will bring together landholders, community members, industry and government to discuss energy developments in the Whitsunday region.

Through the EEEA role, QFF works with our peak industry members, including CANEGROWERS, Cotton Australia and Queensland Fruit & Vegetable Growers, and regional producers to strengthen engagement between the energy sector and agriculture. Early consultation is essential if productive agriculture and reliable energy infrastructure are to co-exist in regional communities.  

QFF is committed to working with our members, industry and regional communities to advance agriculture, supporting on-farm water and energy decision making and driving sensible policy decisions to ensure farmers are supported to continue growing world class food, fibre and foliage across Queensland.

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Photo by Wendy Short.

Subject: All Souls Anglican Church, Victoria Estate. Hinchinbrook.

Submit your photo to the comments on the Ingham Photography Group Facebook page when the next prompt is announced for a chance to have your photo featured in the paper.

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Hinchinbrook Shire Council advises that works for the Mount Fox Road Resilience Strategy are scheduled to commence shortly.

These works form part of a coordinated program delivered under the joint Commonwealth–State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

The community is invited to attend a project meeting to discuss the upcoming works with contractors and Council representatives:

WHAT: Mount Fox Road Resilience Strategy Meeting
WHEN: Friday, 13 March 2026, 4:00pm
WHERE: Mount Fox Cricket Grounds, Weather permitting

This consultation provides residents with the opportunity to learn more about the works funded through DRFA to support Queensland’s recovery from the North and Far North Tropical Low (from 29 January 2025).

The meeting is open to all community members, including local businesses and industry representatives who frequently use the route.

For more information contact (07) 4776 4600 or council@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au via email.

Caption: Mt Fox’s crater, a relic of North QLD’s volcanic past. Photo sourced: ‘Keep Mt Fox Beautiful’ on Facebook

Caption: Endangered species like the Koala live in Mt Fox. Photo sourced: ‘Keep Mt Fox Beautiful’ on Facebook

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Meeting the seasonal labour demands of the sugarcane harvest remains a significant challenge for growers and contractors across the Herbert River district.

To help address this, Canegrowers Herbert River will again run its highly practical Haulout Driver Training program in Ingham. The course equips new entrants with the skills, confidence, and safety knowledge required to work effectively during the sugarcane harvest.

The three-day intensive program gives participants hands-on experience behind the wheel of halout tractors under the guidance of experienced local grower trainers. Trainees gain practical knowledge of haulout operations, harvest procedures, and, most importantly, safe work practices essential for the fast-paced harvest environment.

Chair of Canegrowers Herbert River, Steven Marbelli, said the program plays a vital role in ensuring a skilled local workforce is available.

“Our industry relies on competent operators to keep the harvest moving efficiently and safely. This training provides a genuine pathway into employment while supporting growers and contractors who are actively seeking reliable staff,” Mr Marbelli said.

“It’s about building local capability and ensuring the Herbert River sugar industry remains productive and sustainable for the future.”

Manager of Canegrowers Herbert River, Frank Scardamaglia, highlighted the importance of the program in responding to labour shortages.

“We know growers and harvester contractors are feeling the pressure each season to secure skilled and reliable workers. This course directly responds to that need by preparing participants with practical, real-world experience and the confidence to step straight into harvest operations,” Mr Scardamaglia said.

“It also provides people from a wide range of backgrounds the opportunity to re-skill, enter agriculture, and potentially build long-term careers within our region.”

The program has secured funding from SmartAG Queensland.

Canegrowers Herbert River will also help participants transition into employment within the sugar industry.

Expressions of interest are now open. Anyone interested in participating in the Haulout Driver Training program in Ingham is encouraged to contact Canegrowers Herbert River on 07 4776 5350 to register their interest and learn more.

Applications close on May 1.  This initiative is part of a broader strategy by Canegrowers Herbert River to strengthen workforce development, support local growers and contractors, and ensure the region’s sugarcane harvest continues to operate efficiently each season.

HAULOUT COURSE FAST FACTS

3 day practical haulout driver course

operations of a cane haulage vehicle

workplace health & safety associated with sugar cane harvest work

effective work practices and workplace communication

practical (hands-on) experience with tractors

machinery and maintenance of machinery

REGISTER NOW - Applications Close 1 May

Contact herbertriver@canegrowers.com.au 07 4776 5350

Caption: Get ready for this cane crushing season with a 3-day haulout course. Photo supplied

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Isn’t it interesting how things seem to coincide and seemingly come together in time. You will recall that last week I mentioned our planned delegation to Canberra to address the Federal politicians on matters important and critical to our region to enable our economic growth, one in particular being the emerging sustainable aviation fuel and renewable diesel supply chain. As one of Australia’s leading sugarcane regions, we can contribute feedstock and logistics to processing, refining, and export.

Unfortunately, I did not attend due to the flood threat to our district, but the delegation did meet and push the cause with a number of members, including the Minister for Renewable Energy, Chris Bowen. Feedback is that the Minister is keen on progressing the concept, and we will now wait and see what action is taken.

We are all looking closely at what effect the war on IRAN is having, or going to have, on our fuel supplies and, more immediately, on fuel prices. Prices in Ingham have already risen sharply which does not augur well. I read this morning that Australia is holding around 30 days of refined fuel supply, well below the International Energy Agency recommendation of at least ninety days. This apparently leaves Australia vulnerable to global supply chain disruptions, as appears to be presently occurring.

I can report that the Australian Sugar Manufacturers (ASM) is also calling on the Australian Government to introduce a strong national ethanol mandate to unlock the most affordable pathway to sustainable aviation fuel and biodiesel, while strengthening Australia’s sovereign fuel capacity. ASM states that a national mandate would provide the certainty needed to drive investment in domestic ethanol production and support the development of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and biodiesel. ASM has identified that a national ethanol mandate would provide certainty to unlock billions of dollars in private investment, deliver the lowest-cost carbon abatement in transport fuels, support the development of affordable sustainable aviation fuel and biodiesel, strengthen Australia’s fuel security and sovereign manufacturing capabilities, and create regional jobs and economic opportunities.

I believe it is becoming quite clear to us all that Australia is facing a clear choice: continue relying on imported fuels or build a domestic industry that delivers affordable emissions reductions and regional economic growth. A national ethanol mandate will transform Australia’s sugar manufacturing sector for generations, and we definitely need to start becoming much more vocal about same.

As you may or may not be aware, the Queensland State Government has over the past year been conducting an inquiry into the Queensland sugar industry bioenergy opportunities through the Queensland Primary Industries and Resources Committee. The committee recently had its final public hearing and, I understand, was told of the significant role that the sugar manufacturing sector can play in supporting Queensland’s renewable energy future, regional economic growth, and long-term energy security. That is, of course, significantly reliant on farmers continuing to provide the feedstock to enable manufacturing to occur.

What I am not hearing or seeing yet is how farmers are going to be brought in as an integral part of this process given the existing Cane Supply Arrangements in place where, effectively, farmers are only paid for crystal sugar and a little bit for other things like molasses, but definitely not renewable energy outputs.

The elephant in the room remains.

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The Thorsborne Trail doesn’t shout, it whispers. Stretching 32 km along Hinchinbrook Island, Australia’s largest island national park, this world‑class hike stays wild thanks to a strict permit cap of just 40 people on the trail at any one time.

Usually completed over 3–5 days, many walkers prefer the slower pace, taking extra time to absorb the beaches, rainforest saddles and tidal creeks along the way. The best window to hike is April to September, when temperatures are kinder and creek crossings more predictable: though tides, weather and park alerts always make the final call. Expect soft sand slogs, steep pinches and serious “leave no trace” ethics.

The reward? Freshwater swims at Zoe and Mulligan Falls, empty coves, and nights filled with stars and sea air. Permits book fast. Go slow. Breathe deep. Let the island do the talking. Start planning: hinchinbrookway.com.au

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Working Together for Hinchinbrook’s Water Management

As a representative of the Hinchinbrook Council on the Lower Herbert Water Management Authority (LHWMA), Chair Cameron Barber and Board members made up of members of the Cane Growing community. I am also a member of the Drainage Advisory Group, which includes representatives from the Council, Canegrowers Association, QCar, Herbert River Trust, Qld Government departments to advocate and find solutions to our local water systems.

Our collaboration has proven invaluable, as we tackle the pressing issues that affect both urban and rural areas in Hinchinbrook. The collective expertise and perspectives brought together in these meetings have led to innovative solutions aimed at ensuring our waterways are well-managed and sustainable. The challenges we face are significant; all water from urban and agricultural areas must navigate through systems that, unfortunately, are often blocked and in disrepair. Due to outdated legislation and finical impediments.

I want to take a moment to acknowledge the important roles played by Chair Cr. Carr, Mayor Ramon, and Deputy Mayor Mary. Their advocacy and coordination efforts with the community have been instrumental in driving progress. They have worked tirelessly to ensure that the concerns of our residents are heard and addressed, fostering a spirit of collaboration that is essential for effective water management.

While the issues are complex, I am optimistic about the path forward. The commitment from all parties involved demonstrates our shared responsibility to protect and enhance our water resources for current and future generations. Together, we are working to ensure that Hinchinbrook's waterways are resilient, accessible, and capable of supporting our vibrant community. With continued collaboration, I believe we can overcome the challenges ahead and build a brighter future for everyone in our region.

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A fun-loving little boy with a big heart and an even bigger purr. I’m playful, curious, and always ready for the next game or adventure. Every day I’m growing more confident, exploring a little farther and trying new things with my foster friends cheering me on.

I adore playing with the other foster kittens! We tumble, chase, and wrestle until we’re all worn out. I’m also getting used to the dogs in my foster home. I’m taking it slow, but I’m learning they aren’t so scary, especially when they’re calm and gentle.

I’m ready for my forever home and can’t wait to bring lots of fun, affection, and my trademark loud purr to the family who chooses me.

Complete an animal enquiry form at: https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html.

Included in adoption fee of $240 desexed when of appropriate age, micro-chipped, up to date vaccinations, flea/tick/intestinal worm treated.

DOB: 10/11/2025

Sex: Male

Breed: DSH

Colour: Silver, stripes and white

Kid friendly: Yes

Cat Friendly: Yes

Dog Friendly: Yes

Indoors/Outdoors: Indoors only

BIN: BIN0000268254643

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Thousands of Queenslanders living in community housing will benefit from cost-of-living relief and better thermal comfort in their homes thanks to the new Queensland Community Housing Energy Upgrades (Q-CHEU) program jointly funded by the State and Federal Governments.

Applications are now open for up to $4,500 in rebates to help eligible community housing providers deliver energy efficiency and thermal comfort upgrades to around 4,000 community homes across Queensland.

Upgrades could include:  

• insulation and shading for homes
• installation of efficient electric appliances like hot water systems, ovens and cooktops and split-cycle air conditioners
• solar systems such as solar panels.

The Q-CHEU program is the latest part of a broader $116 million investment by the Australian and Queensland Governments to improve energy performance for up to 32,000 social housing properties across the state.

Federal Assistant Minister for Climate Change and Energy Josh Wilson said the Commonwealth's Social Housing Energy Performance Initiative is a great example of policy delivering positive results for people.

“No matter their circumstances, all Australians deserve to benefit from cheaper energy bills and more comfortable homes and that’s why the Federal Government is investing $1.1 billion to upgrade the nation’s stock of social and community housing – with 100,000 dwellings to be upgraded,” Mr Wilson said.

“Upgrades like shading, insulation energy efficient appliances will deliver instant and permanent hip pocket relief for Queensland’s community housing tenants.”

Queensland Minister for Housing and Public Works Sam O’Connor said the scheme would help to reduce the cost of living for some of the state’s most vulnerable people.

“This is a practical program that will change the lives of our community housing tenants by helping to cut their power bills and making their homes more liveable,” he said.

“Our tenants in community homes are on low incomes, so reducing energy costs and improving thermal comfort will make a real difference especially during our scorching hot Queensland summers."

Community Housing Industry Association Queensland CEO Julie Saunders said the Q-CHEU program would deliver meaningful benefits for both tenants and providers.

“By backing upgrades like insulation, solar and efficient hot water systems, the Queensland Community Housing Energy Upgrades program will deliver real cost-of-living relief while improving the liveability of homes across the community housing sector.”

Applications can be submitted until 30 October 2026, with all upgrades works to be completed by 30 June 2027.

For registered community housing providers seeking more information or wishing to apply, visit www.housing.qld.gov.au/initiaitives/queensland-community-housing-energy-upgrades-program.

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A lunar eclipse, also called a blood moon, is an astronomical event that occurs when the Moon passes through Earth’s shadow. Lunar eclipses occur during eclipse season, when the Moon’s orbital plane is approximately in line with Earth and the Sun.

On March 3, this rare event occurred, but it was also a night of storms and heavy cloud cover across Queensland. Some were lucky enough to spot the striking red face of the Moon at its peak through breaks in the clouds. The next one visible in Australian skies will not occur for another three years.

Upcoming Total Lunar Eclipses

31 Dec 2028 – 1 Jan 2029
20 – 21 Dec 2029
25 – 26 Apr 2032

Caption: During a total lunar eclipse, Earth’s atmosphere scatters blue light, allowing only red hues to illuminate the Moon: Image credit: timeanddate.com

Caption: The ‘Blood Moon’ as it appeared in clear New Zealand skies. Photo credit: AstronzNewZealand

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Hinchinbrook Shire Council advises that, in anticipation of inclement weather and to ensure public safety, the road access to Wallaman Falls was closed from the afternoon of Thursday, 5 March 2026, and is still in effect due to flooding in the area.

Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service will conduct a site inspection to confirm that all members of the public have safely vacated the area.

Members of the public are advised to monitor conditions and check the Hinchinbrook Disaster Dashboard at https://disaster.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au/ for the latest information on road conditions and other relevant updates.

Caption: Wallaman Falls on a clear and bright sunny day. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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The Ingham community has another reason to be proud, with Canegrowers Mitre 10 Ingham Store Manager Yvonne Bosworth receiving national recognition for her outstanding service and leadership.

Yvonne was recently awarded the National Paul Murphy Mighty Helpful Service Award at the 2025 TTHG Awards of Excellence in Adelaide. The award recognises individuals who demonstrate exceptional dedication to customer service and embody the “Mighty Helpful” spirit across the Mitre 10 network.

Yvonne’s journey with Canegrowers Mitre 10 spans an incredible 37 years, beginning as a shop assistant in 1989 before stepping into the role of store manager six years ago. During this time, she has built a reputation for her hands-on leadership, deep product knowledge and genuine commitment to helping customers find the right solutions for their projects.

Her leadership was particularly evident during the North Queensland floods in February 2025, when the store was inundated with floodwater and mud. Despite the devastation, Yvonne rallied staff and community volunteers to clean up and restore operations, demonstrating remarkable resilience and determination.

Beyond the store, Yvonne is well known for her strong community involvement, supporting initiatives such as Pink Breast Cancer Day, representing the business at local sporting events, and serving as a member of the Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce.

On behalf of the Canegrowers family and the wider Hinchinbrook community, we congratulate Yvonne on this outstanding achievement and well-deserved national recognition.

Contributed with thanks by Frank Scardamaglia, Manager at Canegrowers.

Yvonne Bosworth with her National Paul Murphy Mighty Helpful Service Award at the 2025 TTHG Awards of Excellence in Adelaide. Photo supplied

Yvonne, surrounded by her supporters on stage when she won the award. Photo supplied

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On Friday, 27 February, St Vincent de Paul Society confirmed the temporary closure of Vinnies Ingham whilst renovations are completed following flood damage sustained earlier last year.

Vinnies Ingham confirmed that the cherished charity store would remain closed for approximately four to six weeks while works are carried out, leaving the local community saddened as another familiar business shuts its doors.

In an online post, Vinnies Ingham Volunteer, Caroline Kane, expressed her sadness at the closure, explaining that donations would no longer be accepted while the store is shut, highlighting the decision had been made by St Vincent de Paul Society Townsville Diocese and was beyond her control.

Executive Officer of St Vincent de Paul Society Townsville Diocese, Sharin Nicholson, explained the closure was necessary to repair, renovate and modernise the building, assuring the Townsville Diocese has been working closely with Vinnies Ingham throughout the entire process.

“We anticipate renovations may take four to six weeks to complete and we look forward to delivering even more for the local community to better serve our shoppers and donors,” Ms Nicholson said.

“We have been working with our wonderful Ingham team throughout the renovation to keep them informed and are excited to provide them with a fresh, new space to work in.”

Hinchinbrook MP Wayde Chiesa said the temporary closure would allow important repair works to move forward, kindly asking locals to keep donations aside in anticipation of the store’s reopening in April.

“Vinnies plays a vital role in our community, whether it’s helping families doing it tough or providing an affordable place for people to shop,” said Mr Chiesa.

“While it has taken some time for insurance approvals to come through, it’s great news that the works are now able to move ahead and that the store will soon return better than ever. I know Hinchinbrook locals are incredibly generous, and I encourage everyone to keep those donations ready so we can support the volunteers and the great work they do when the doors reopen.”

Vinnies Ingham’s temporary closure leaves the community without a charity store, with many residents recalling the previous closures of Lifeline Shop Ingham and the Salvation Army Family Store as significant losses to the local community.

Residents initially reacted with concern to the closure online, voicing how integral small shops like Vinnies are in supporting the local economy and community of the Hinchinbrook Shire.

“The big stores who make these decisions forget there are people in the smaller towns who also need to buy from these great little shops – very sad when this happens,” one resident wrote.

Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre Support Worker, Mei Yakuma acknowledged the store’s temporary closure would be greatly felt across the community, noting the integral role services like the St Vincent de Paul Society play in creating a cycle of generosity and support within communities.

“Many members of our community are living paycheck to paycheck, and having low-cost outlets such as Vinnies provides a realistic place for families to purchase essential items like clothing, shoes, and furniture at affordable prices,” Ms Yakuma said.

“Vinnies has also historically been a key support during times of crisis. Many families and individuals received assistance during events such as the recent floods, demonstrating how valuable these services are during difficult times.”

While the store remains closed, Ms Yakuma hopes residents will consider alternative ways to support one another like utilising social media pages to share donations directly with those in need. Ms Yakuma also confirmed The HUB unfortunately no longer accepts donations of second-hand items.

“Ingham’s a very strong and close-kit community,” she said.

“While the closure will certainly be felt, I would encourage community members who have items to donate to consider alternative ways of supporting others locally.”

Although disappointing, Vinnies Ingham’s temporary closure presents an opportunity for generosity to flourish across the Hinchinbrook Shire, with community organisations encouraging residents to support one another through local initiatives like car boot sales, markets and online community groups.

In the meantime, St Vincent de Paul Society Townsville Diocese thanks residents for their understanding and assures the charity store will return it Herbert Street shortly.

“We appreciate the community’s patience and ongoing support,” said Ms Nicholson.

“We look forward to reopening in Ingham as a better, fresher Vinnies as we continue to raise important funds to support locals in need.”

CAPTION: Vinnies Ingham is temporarily closed for repairs following 2025 flood damage. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

On Wednesday 4 March, a Queensland Police recruitment pop-up stand outside Sportspower in Ingham received a very positive response from the public. Officers Michelle Jardine and Trina Ryland were on hand to assist hopeful applicants with paperwork, hand out some fun merchandise, and talk with visitors about what a career in policing involves.

Speaking about the day, the officers said they were delighted with the turnout. They explained that even before the stand was fully set up, enthusiastic hopefuls were already waiting to ask questions and learn more about joining the service.

Among those stopping by were Joshua and Emily-Rose, who were both eager to begin their application process and grateful for the opportunity to receive guidance in person. The pair left the stand feeling confident and motivated, ready to organise the next steps as they pursue their policing careers together.

Caption 1: Officers Michelle Jardine and Trina Ryland with Joshua Barram and Emily-Rose Pulis at the pop-up stand. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

Caption 2: Joshua Barram and Emily-Rose Pulis looking at the pamphlets, merch, and having fun trying on Police hats. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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Hiya Hinchinbrook!

Last weekend the community celebrated International Women's Day with much flair and lots of support. I managed to stop by the QCWA in Forrest Beach on Sunday and see the wonderful ladies in action. Who doesn't love a spot of tea, good company and delicious scones? Me, I love it!

The ladies of the QCWA were very kind offering me cold water or a cheeky scone when they saw how much I was melting in the Sunday heat, kudos to them for pushing through their open day with only fans running, pushing about the hot air, I have to say I went straight home to aircon I felt boiled alive in my black uniform.

I have great love and respect for the Country Women’s Association, as when I was a Girl Guide back in Brisbane, my hut automatically joined us with their organisation. This meant we would occasionally get special guests from our local QCWA to come in and teach us soft handicrafts and baking.

It also meant we got to volunteer with them. I remember with much fondness going to the huge EKKA event in Brisbane, unchaperoned by parents, with a volunteers pass proudly around my neck. I helped the ladies of the QCWA serve tea, coffee and baked goods to hungry farmers and city-goers between shows in the arena, even though I was just barely tall enough to reach over the counter.

Fun fact: It was at the EKKA QCWA cafe that I first tried pecan pie. I have loved it ever since, especially with a dollop of cream.

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