Born and raised in the Burdekin, Meagan Morris from MortgageWorks brings over 20 years of experience in banking and lending. She understands what makes North Queensland tick and how that affects local lending. With clients across Australia, her focus remains on helping the north navigate complex finance needs with clarity and care.

“Finance isn’t one-size-fits-all,” Meagan said.

“My job is to help clients fine tune their financial strategy in a way that suits them.

“I work closely with accountants, solicitors and financial planners across all states and this network helps me ensure that the clients receive neutral information.”

A large proportion of the northern population work in seasonal industries, with around 50–60% as PAYG employees and 30–40% self-employed, often in trades or small businesses.

Meagan works across four key areas: property finance, refinancing, first home buying, and lending for renovations or refurbishments.

Properties like kit homes, stump houses or those in cyclone-prone areas often fall outside preferred lender postcodes. Meagan matches clients with lenders who understand local risks and property types.

For first home buyers, she offers guidance on state grants and family guarantee strategies. Meagan also helps young people enter the market without paying lenders mortgage insurance.

Refinancing is often overlooked. Meagan explained that clients may be on the wrong structure or have had changes to their circumstances, and that refinancing can be a perfect reset. “I recently helped a client consolidate six loans into three, saving them over $300,000 in potential interest,” she said.

Renovation lending is also growing. “More people are choosing to upgrade their existing home rather than move. That might mean funding for extensions, kitchens or structural changes, each with different lending requirements.”

Councillor Andrew Carr

Hello Hinchinbrook,

I thought I would mention that Works for Queensland (W4Q) is a non-competitive, allocation-based funding program that supports regional councils to undertake job-creating maintenance and minor infrastructure projects.

The 2024–2027 W4Q budget totals $300 million, to be delivered over three financial years.

The 2024–2027 W4Q aims to provide funding to non-SEQ councils to deliver infrastructure, planning, maintenance, and capability development projects.

These projects enable councils to further drive local employment opportunities, support essential services, contribute to community economic development, and improve their long-term sustainability. They create and sustain jobs while fostering liveable communities where Queenslanders want to live, work, and play.

Proposed projects focus on supporting councils to manage their long-term sustainability and must demonstrate alignment with their long-term and strategic planning.

Hinchinbrook Shire’s 2024–2027 W4Q project funding allocation of $3.23 million has been endorsed by the Queensland Government and must be completed by 30 June 2027.

Also, another reminder — to request a service, make an enquiry, or report an issue, please use the web forms under Customer Service on Council’s website www.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au or phone 4776 4600.

Once again, it is great to be able to pick up a copy of Hinchinbrook Life and read through what has been and what will be happening throughout our Shire.

Thank you for the opportunity once again.

Mayor Ramon Jayo

There’s been a lot of conversation lately about development near our coastal areas and how we manage flood risk in a region like ours.

So let’s break it down, and while we’re at it, give you the info you need to stay safe and in-the-know.
Earlier this year, Council made the decision to refuse a development application near the Forrest Beach foreshore.

Why? Not because we don’t welcome growth — quite the opposite. But we have a responsibility to ensure any new development is safe, sustainable, and future-proofed.

In this case, the plans didn’t provide enough clarity on design, infrastructure, or how future residents would be protected from coastal hazards that result from cyclones and ensuring the coastal dune systems are protected.

Council’s role isn’t just to say “yes” or “no” — it’s to guide developers to meet standards that protect our community today and tomorrow.

The applicant has since appealed Council’s decision. Mediation was heard in the Planning and Environment Court in Brisbane on Wednesday, 13 August 2025. We’ll continue working with them to refine the proposal and make sure that, if development goes ahead, it aligns with sound planning principles and community expectations.

If you’ve lived in Hinchinbrook for more than a season, you know that flooding is part of our reality, especially with the Herbert River catchment at the heart of our landscape.

Council operates a comprehensive network of rainfall and river height stations feeding data directly into our systems in Ingham. These include:
· A dedicated sensor network in the Halifax and Lower Herbert area.
· Six automated flood cameras on key bridges along the Herbert River, updating every 30 minutes during daylight hours.
· Seven highway cameras, north and south of Ingham, managed by TMR.
· The Bureau of Meteorology’s 30 rain gauge stations across the district.

And all of this info? It's live and accessible on our Disaster Dashboard. We’ve learned a lot from the major flood earlier this year. It exposed some tech challenges:
· Poor connectivity in some 4G areas.
· Low image quality, especially at night.
· Cameras only operating during daylight and only updating every 30 minutes.

We’re not just sitting back. Right now, Council is reviewing new systems to boost our flood monitoring capabilities. One option we’re exploring uses laser-based sensors instead of cameras — these detect water over roads and measures depth with precision, even at night, without relying on constant image feeds. This could give our Local Disaster Management Group much better visibility in critical situations.

For our community, I cannot stress enough that you must follow our official Disaster Dashboard online at www.disaster.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au and also follow the Hinchinbrook Disaster Information page on Facebook. It’s the only Council-authorised source on social media for disaster updates, road closures, weather alerts, and emergency instructions.

The Countdown Is On For 2025 Ingham Sugar City Rodeo

Dust off your boots and grab your hat – the countdown is on! In less than three weeks, the Long Pocket Earthmoving Ingham Sugar City Rodeo will burst into action at the Ingham Showgrounds on Saturday, the 6th of September.

From the crack of dawn, gates will swing open at 8:00am, welcoming rodeo-goers to one of North Queensland’s most exciting days on the calendar. Whether you’re a rodeo regular or brand new to the sport, expect heart-pounding action as riders tackle more than 25 events. From junior and novice categories to professional showdowns, plus feature events and the crowd-favourite charity ride, the arena will be buzzing with thrills, spills, and plenty of cowboy grit.

Off the dirt, there’s just as much to enjoy. Stroll through bustling market stalls, tap your boots to live music, and refuel at mouth-watering food stands. With the event’s proud ABCRA affiliation and local stock contractors supplying top-notch animals, you can bet on high-quality competition all day long.

Since bucking out of the gates in 1995, the Ingham Sugar City Rodeo has grown into a must-attend celebration of the north’s rural heritage. Visitors not only get an action-packed day but also the perfect excuse to explore the Hinchinbrook region’s warm hospitality, great food, and stunning scenery.

So, mark your calendars, rally your mates, and get ready for an unforgettable day in the heart of Ingham. The countdown is on, and the rodeo is calling!

WHAT: 2025 Ingham Sugar City Rodeo
WHEN: Saturday, the 6th of September
WHERE: Ingham Showgrounds

Simon Hood, Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

The global sugar market has been holding steady in recent weeks, with supply fundamentals keeping a lid on prices.

Brazil is now halfway through its crushing season, and analysts are forecasting production between 39 and 40 million tonnes. With that much sugar expected, commercial traders are confident supply will comfortably meet demand through to the first quarter of next year. This has left speculators largely in control of short-term price movements, looking to push prices below 16 US cents per pound before easing back towards 17 US cents. While they hold a large short position, they remain vulnerable to any unexpected news of lower supply.

Here at home, Wilmar Grower Marketing has released its three-year comparative analysis report, following the finalisation of 2024-season pricing on 30 June. The results speak for themselves: Our Production Risk Pool and Allocation Account have consistently outperformed QSL’s Harvest Pool and Shared Pool. Over three years, the difference in total income for an average-sized grower is significant.

We’ve also issued our quarterly update on the 2025 Managed Pool Plus, giving participating growers insight into the hedging strategies we use to maximise returns. This season’s pool includes committed MEI (miller economic interest) tonnes, meaning we’re working hard to deliver the best possible outcome in all market conditions. Against our benchmarks, the pool is performing well despite the softer market. Interest in managed pool pricing is growing, with the 2026 Managed Pool Plus attracting strong commitments before it closed at the end of July.

Outside the office, our team has been busy during show season, supporting local events, presenting awards, and catching up with growers. Most recently, our Plane Creek Grower Relationship Manager Jonathan Reichard joined colleagues from the Plane Creek Mill and AgServices teams at the Sarina Show to host the Wilmar stand – a great opportunity to connect with the community and celebrate our local industries.

We’re also delighted to welcome Misty Bland as our new Grower Relationship Manager in Proserpine. A canegrower herself, Misty understands the realities of farming life and is passionate about supporting growers. She’s also well known for her volunteer work and community involvement – values that are a big part of who we are at Wilmar Grower Marketing.

As the Ingham community continues to recover from the devastating floods earlier this year, Women in Sugar Herbert (WISH), a branch of CANEGROWERS Herbert River, has stepped up to support local schools in a meaningful way. The group recently donated 15 copies of the children’s book No Drama Cane Farmer, written by Mackay-based educator and cane-farming mum Nicki Townley, to primary schools and kindergartens throughout the Ingham district.

One of the most grateful recipients was Toobanna State School, located just south of Ingham, which lost its entire library collection in the February floods.

“When we presented the books, the school staff were overwhelmed and so grateful,” said WISH President Sharon Fighera. “It’s a small gesture, but one that brings joy, hope, and a touch of normality back to these young students.”

WISH, a branch of Canegrowers Herbert River, is a committed local networking group of women actively engaged in the sugar industry. Meeting monthly, they connect, share knowledge, and support one another while advancing the region’s sugarcane sector through community initiatives like this.

The donation comes in the wake of one of the worst flood events in the region’s history. In February 2025, torrential rain caused the Herbert River to rise to nearly 15.2 metres, inundating large parts of Ingham and surrounding areas. The flooding left widespread damage across homes, roads, farms, and schools, displacing hundreds of residents into emergency shelters.

No Drama Cane Farmer, released in April, has quickly gained popularity across Queensland. The story follows a young boy discovering the workings of a sugarcane farm, from planting and harvesting to machinery and processing, through engaging rhymes and vibrant illustrations.

Author Nicki Townley says the book is based on her own family’s life on a cane farm and was written to help children better understand where their food comes from and to instil pride in rural living. With this donation, Women in Sugar Herbert hopes to help rebuild lost resources and inspire a renewed love of reading and agriculture among local children.

Contributed with thanks to Canegrowers Herbert River.

Recently, the Herbert River Farmers’ League (HRFL) awarded their annual scholarships. Do you know that the Ingham Travel building is situated in the former League Building? Look up and you will see the date 1925, but the words Herbert River Farmers League Limited Est 1896 are now covered by a sign.

So what are the origins of the HRFL? The League, which advocated and negotiated for small farmers for 80 years, has its origins in the Herbert River Farmers’ Association (HRFA), formed in 1882. That association was unique in the sugar growing world in representing small independent sugar farmers' interests and the first in Queensland formed to represent small growers’ interests rather than those of the planters.

It all began in plantation days when a group of small farmers—described as a ‘clique of insignificant cockies’— bravely approached the powerful Colonial Sugar Refining Company (CSR)—once described as ‘the most selfish company in the Australasias'—with the suggestion that they could supply sugar cane to CSR’s Victoria Plantation Mill for crushing. Those farmers were Swedish August Anderssen, Norwegians Johan (John) Alm and Harald Hoffensetz, Danish Neils C. Rosendahl, English Arthur W. Carr, and Irish Francis Herron. Together they formed the Herbert River Farmers’ Association (HRFA).

The founding principle was 'to work for and promote the interests of the farming industry in general and the welfare and progress of the Herbert River district in particular'. The association was a 'Bureau through which the farmers could communicate with the Government or others on any matter of common interest with one voice'. For 14 years it was the voice of the Valley’s small farmers.

As the sugar industry spread across the Valley and farmers formed local interest groups, the HRFA’s representative role was then assumed in 1896 by the Herbert River Farmers’ League—an amalgamation of the HRFA and the local associations, which became affiliated branches. The members of the HRFA who predominantly farmed in the Halifax area continued an advocacy role there through membership in the HRFL and their own local association, the Halifax Planters’ Club (HPC).

Just as the HRFL built its own building in Lannercost Street from which to conduct its business, in 1926, the Queensland Government legislated for a statutory industry-wide association, the Queensland Cane Growers’ Association (QCGA), now CANEGROWERS. After the formation of the local branch of the QCGA in 1932— the Herbert River Cane Growers’ Association (HRCGA)—the HRFL continued to advocate on behalf of small farmers until 1976, at which time it reinvented itself as an educational scholarship funding body.

Contributed with thanks by Dr. Bianka Vidonja Balanzategui.

Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) has recorded its biggest year of planned burns to date, surpassing its annual target by more than 50 per cent.

Between the 1st of July 2024 and the 30th of June 2025, QPWS carried out 637 planned burns across 968,884 hectares of Queensland’s public protected estate. The burns aim to reduce the risk and severity of bushfires, protect communities and infrastructure, and promote healthy ecosystems across the state’s parks and forests.

The milestone comes as part of the State Government’s More Rangers, Better Neighbours initiative, which has invested in additional fire management staff, upgraded equipment, enhanced training, and improved engagement with local communities. This includes restoring funding for 40 specialist fire rangers to strengthen bushfire preparedness and park management.

Planned burns are highly weather-dependent, requiring cooler conditions and minimal wind to create a patchwork of burnt and unburnt areas that support biodiversity and habitat conservation.

Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell praised the achievement.

“It is fantastic to see Rangers prepare our protected areas for the months and years ahead through the strategic use of fire,” Minister Powell said.

“What they have achieved this year is astounding – bolstered by good weather, strong investment in the QPWS fire program and an increased use of aerial burning techniques to deliver broadscale burning across multiple parts of Queensland when conditions are right.

“I want to congratulate our QPWS rangers and Fire teams for their focus, coordination, and commitment to deliver such an incredible result – protecting Queensland communities and our precious environment.”

QPWS Fire Services Director Troy Spinks said burns would continue over the coming weeks while conditions remain favourable.

“Rangers have done an exceptional job this year, but people can still expect to see smoke on the horizon as crews make the most of these cooler, milder conditions to undertake even more burns within national parks and state forests,” Mr Spinks said.

“These planned burns not only provide a picture-perfect sunset but prepare us for the upcoming bushfire season.

“We thank the community for your support and understanding over the coming weeks as we work to protect our parks and neighbours by delivering these vital planned burns.”

Families seeking a nurturing and enriching beginning to their child’s education are invited to enrol for Prep 2026 at St Peter’s Catholic School, Halifax. The school offers a warm and caring environment where each child is valued and supported to thrive academically, socially, and spiritually.

With small class sizes and a qualified, experienced early years teacher, St Peter’s ensures every student receives personalised attention and one-on-one support tailored to their unique needs. Teaching practices at the school are modern, engaging, and grounded in the Science of Learning. Emphasising hands-on experiences, students learn through play-based exploration and real-world activities that make learning both fun and meaningful.

The curriculum also includes creative arts, physical education, and digital technologies, promoting well-rounded development across all key learning areas.

St Peter’s Catholic School is proud to foster a loving and inclusive school community where children are encouraged to grow in confidence, curiosity, and compassion. Rooted in Gospel values, students are supported and challenged to live out the teachings of Jesus in their daily lives.

To experience the difference a supportive and faith-filled learning environment can make, families are warmly invited to attend one of the upcoming Prep Open Mornings, running from 8:30am to 11:00am on the following dates:

➔ Friday 12th September
➔ Friday 19th September
➔ Friday 14th November
➔ Friday 21st November

To book a tour or find out more, contact the school on 4777 7431 or email halfx@tsv.catholic.edu.au.

Students at Ingham State High School undertaking Certificate II in Rural Operations are gaining valuable real-world experience, community connections, and inspiration to pursue careers in agriculture.

At the beginning of the course, students focused on Workplace Health & Safety (WH&S) within the agricultural industry and were introduced to the fundamentals of safe tractor operation and the use of various implements. Students gained valuable hands-on experience in the effective operation of both the school's New Holland tractor and the Herbert River Athletics Club’s Kubota lawn tractor and rotary hoe.

Due to unfavourable conditions earlier in the year, it has only recently been possible to begin preparing the school’s agricultural block on the George Day Athletics Oval. Students have now successfully planted sugar cane as well as a range of vegetables, including pumpkins, zucchini, long capsicums and eggplant to enhance their learning and meet course outcomes.

The success of the program is due in large part to the generous support of local farmers, industry companies, and agricultural bodies, including HCPSL and Canegrowers Herbert River. Local farmer, Alan Lynn, donated his time and expertise, along with the use of his Bed Mounder/Renovator, to help students prepare the block for planting.

Regan and Kristen Kernke from Agro Group also kindly donated and spread a full load of mill mud onto the block to assist with soil preparation. This donation not only improved soil health but also significantly reduced the need to purchase fertilisers, supporting the sustainability of the school’s agricultural program.

HCPSL also provided tissue-cultured sugar cane varieties, which students recently planted under the guidance of Field Technician Rhiannan Harragon. These newly released varieties will form part of the school’s entry in the Herbert River Canegrowers Sugar Cane Varieties competition at the annual Ingham Show.

Ingham State High School’s Certificate II in Rural Operations program continues to benefit from the strong partnership between the school and the local agricultural industry. The school extends its sincere appreciation for the ongoing support, which plays a vital role in student success.

This year, the Catholic community is joyfully celebrating the Year of Jubilee: Pilgrims of Hope—a time to reflect on the shared journey of faith and the hope that lights the way forward.

As part of this special celebration, Townsville Catholic Education invited students from across the diocese—stretching from Ingham to Mount Isa, Townsville to Charters Towers, and every community in between—to create an artwork that captures the true essence of Hope.

Year 6 students from Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School embraced the challenge with enthusiasm and heartfelt reflection. They spent time exploring what hope means to them—in their faith, friendships, community, and dreams for the future.

The result is a stunning collection of artworks that are not only visually striking but deeply meaningful. Each piece tells its own powerful story of resilience, faith, and optimism.

The school community is incredibly proud of the students' creativity, insight, and the thoughtful way they have brought the theme of Hope to life. These artworks stand as a testament to the enduring strength of young voices and a reminder that—even in uncertain times—hope continues to guide, uplift, and inspire.

Here are some of the finalists from Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School proudly showing their artworks that represent the Pilgrims of Hope.

This Father’s Day, JB Marine is helping you celebrate the legends in your life with unbeatable deals for all the fishing and boating dads out there!

For all your boating needs from wash to service, from 1st September to Monday, 8th September, enjoy 10% off all floor stock items when you use the code FATHERSDAY25 at purchase.

Whether you are after premium marine accessories, boating gear, or the latest gadgets, now is the time to grab a great deal, as they have everything perfect for keeping your vessel looking sharp and ready for adventure.

For those considering upgrading their outboard, Mercury Marine is running an unbeatable promotion. Right now, receive a complete rigging kit absolutely free when you purchase a selected 115 to 300 horsepower Mercury Marine outboard. This limited-time offer means serious value for your boating investment, but you will need to move fast.

Whether you are buying for Dad or upgrading your own boat and enjoying the new gear, JB Marine’s Father’s Day specials are the perfect excuse to set sail on new adventures with only the best new kit. Cast a line and show your old man some love with a fishing trip! Terms and conditions apply.

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Father’s Day is just around the corner, and at Hinchinbrook Community Pharmacy, we’ve made it easy to find a gift that shows Dad how much he means to you. Whether your father is practical, sentimental, or enjoys a little indulgence, our shelves are stocked with thoughtful options to suit every taste and budget.

For the dad who loves to keep active and healthy, explore our range of men’s grooming products, skincare essentials, and health supplements. If your father prefers something a little more personal, we have premium fragrances, stylish accessories, and beautifully packaged gift sets that are sure to make him feel appreciated.

Not sure what to choose? Our friendly team is always on hand to help you find the perfect present, or even put together a custom hamper tailored just for him. With free gift wrapping available, you can leave our store ready to surprise Dad with something truly special.

This Father’s Day, skip the socks and give a gift that speaks from the heart. Visit Hinchinbrook Community Pharmacy and let us help you make Dad’s day one to remember.

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The Seniors Medieval Morning Tea proved to be a magical and memorable occasion, filled with laughter, music and a sense of community. Guests were transported back in time as they were greeted by a visiting crusader knight, who mingled with the crowd and posed for cheerful photographs. Many princesses and noble ladies, dressed in their finest medieval attire, graced the tables, adding a colourful charm to the room.

The tables themselves were laden with decorations and delicious treats, as friends and neighbours gathered to share stories, enjoy the morning and celebrate the spirit of togetherness.

On stage, the entertainment flowed without pause. Chair exercises brought smiles and light-hearted participation, while choirs filled the hall with harmonies. Energetic dances swept across the stage, and talented musicians showcased instruments and voices that added a lively and charming touch to the event.

With every moment offering something new, the morning became a tapestry of joy, performance and companionship. It was a celebration of connection, where seniors could revel in fun, laughter and a little medieval magic.

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Find the fullk social pics here: https://tinyurl.com/22nu4ct3

Friday Recap And Upcoming Meeting

Last Friday, members of the HCSC Seniors Morning Coffee Club gathered at the Noorla Bowls Club for a morning filled with conversation, laughter, and activities. The highlight of the day was a thoughtful presentation from Penny King of NWRH, which was warmly received by everyone in attendance. Morning tea was a treat, with plenty of delicious options to enjoy before the fun continued with bingo and trivia. The atmosphere was lively, with plenty of smiles shared across the room.

Looking ahead, the club’s next meeting will take place on Friday, 29 August, and there will be a venue change. For the next few gatherings, members will come together at Conroy Hall, 41 McIlwraith Street, Ingham. The morning runs from 9:30am to 11:30am and continues to offer a wonderful program of games, trivia, prizes, and of course, a tasty morning tea.

A $5 entry fee helps cover the cost of catering, and transport options are available for seniors needing pick-ups from Halifax or around Ingham. To RSVP or register your interest, please contact Desley on 07 4776 1822.

Join us for another enjoyable morning of friendship and community.

Contributed with thanks by Desley Di Bella, Elderly Inclusion Facilitator of the HCSC.