Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
2026 has marked an exciting new chapter for Science at Our Lady of Lourdes with the introduction of Science as a specialist subject across the school. Aligned with the Australian Curriculum Version 9, our science program provides students with opportunities to investigate real-world phenomena through hands-on learning, creativity, inquiry and play. At Lourdes, we believe that students learn best when they are actively engaged in meaningful experiences that allow them to question, explore, design, test and create. Across every year level, students have been immersed in learning that encourages curiosity while developing important skills such as collaboration, critical thinking, problem-solving and resilience. Our Year 2 students have stepped into the role of designers and inventors by creating their own fidget toys. Students investigated how materials can be changed and selected for specific purposes, using the design process to create products that are both practical and engaging. They have loved seeing how different products can be made, especially their favourite toys. Students at Our Lady of Lourdes have had lots of fun being inventors. Photos supplied
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Feel the Magic is providing vital support to children and families across Australia who are navigating the pain of grief, offering a range of free early intervention programs designed to help young people “face, feel and heal” after the death of a parent, guardian or sibling. At the heart of the organisation is a belief that no child should face grief alone. Its programs create a nurturing, supportive environment where children aged 7 to 18 can express their emotions, learn coping strategies, and connect with others who understand their experience. Through its virtual camp programs, Feel the Magic is able to reach families regardless of location. These online sessions bring together grieving children to learn a shared “grief language”, build practical emotional tools, and reduce feelings of isolation through connection with other families. The organisation also offers specialised programs for those impacted by suicide bereavement. These include virtual camps, a one-day face-to-face “Let’s Talk Suicide Family Day Camp”, and the signature Camp Magic experience—an intensive 2.5-day overnight program where children are paired with trained volunteer mentors who provide one-on-one support throughout the camp. Camp Magic focuses on helping children understand grief, regulate difficult emotions and develop healthy coping strategies in a safe and structured environment. A concurrent emotional literacy workshop is also available for parents and guardians, helping families better understand grief responses and strengthen communication at home. For older participants, Grad Camp supports young people aged 16 to 19 as they transition into adulthood while continuing to process their grief experience. Across all programs, Feel the Magic emphasises connection, understanding and hope, with the organisation noting that even a single day can make a meaningful difference in a child’s journey through grief. To learn more about how you can get involved email lauren.galbraith@feelthemagic.org.au. WHAT: Family Day Camp WHEN: 26th July WHERE: The Cathedral School, Townsville
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A strong school community is built on the dedication of its people. At the heart of Halifax SS are highly experienced and caring learning support staff who ensure every student feels included, supported, and capable of success. Their work, alongside experienced and innovative teachers, creates engaging classrooms where creativity and curiosity thrive. Play-based learning is one example of this approach in action, helping students develop confidence, independence, and a love of learning from an early age. Bringing these strengths together is exceptional leadership. This has been recognised through the awarding of the prestigious Bill McClintock Medal, introduced in 2016 to honour individuals who contribute to the advocacy and service of the Queensland Association of State School Principals (QASSP), particularly through supporting colleagues across regional and remote communities. “We are all very proud of Michael for receiving this award,” a spokesperson said. “It reflects a commitment not only to school excellence, but to strengthening education across Queensland. “Together, caring support staff, innovative teaching, and award-winning leadership create an environment where students and communities thrive.” Caption: 1. Teacher aide Jenny Genrich incorporates play-based learning to actively engage students and support early skill development in the classroom. 2. Presentation of the Bill McClintock Medal, recognising outstanding leadership and service to education across Queensland.
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When disaster strikes, firefighters are often the first people the community turns to. But behind every emergency response is a team of locals who give their time, train regularly and step up when their neighbours need them most. Forrest Beach Fire and Rescue is encouraging more community members, particularly younger residents, to consider joining the station and becoming part of the team. "It's a good thing to get people back in from the community, especially for the station here; because we're an elderly community. Getting the younger people in is really, really important,” said Acting Lieutenant Keith Amos. Keith highlighted that being part of the station is a chance to make a tangible impact on the community- and not just in cases of fire. During the major flooding event of 2025 that isolated Forrest Beach and surrounding areas, firefighters assisted residents, with rescues, but also delivering meals and helping secure damaged homes. "The floods, when we were cut off, the way we were seen by the community and how we helped people really made an impact," Keith said. The crew’s role is diverse, and potential recruits are reminded that it’s not all flashing lights and sirens. Beyond the emergencies, auxiliary firefighters have an important role in the everyday community; regularly attending markets, school safety days and events to teach fire safety and engage with local families. During the recent Tasman Turtle Picnic Day, a popular community event for children, countless young attendees were proudly sporting the station’s bright, colourful Blazer the Koala firefighting mascot stickers. "We try and get into the community, showing what we do," Auxiliary Firefighter Michael Monbelli said. Michael also explained that for him, the biggest obstacle is balancing service with everyday life – though this factor he feels is understood and well-supported by the crew. Michael balances his firefighting role with full time work at the mill, and a busy family life with young children. On his team, there is a schoolteacher, two ex-servicemen, and another millworker. Auxiliary firefighters also commit significant time to weekly training. As for emergency response, call-outs can occur at any hour of the day or night. "Being an auxiliary is that we're on call.” Acting Lieutenant Keith Amos explained. “So even on our Wednesday night training we can get a call." Keith described the role as ‘drop everything and jump into action’. Despite the demands, Former Army serviceman Mark McEwen believes many people underestimate how manageable the role can be. "It doesn't take too much out of your normal week. Give up your three hours of training on a Wednesday, and you're on call." At the same time, emergency work can be unpredictable. "Things can change in a heartbeat," Mark said. He recalled a 4:00am call-out to a possible house fire. "Eight hours later, we get home. Us older fellas feel it a bit more, but it was worthwhile. That's what we're here for." The crew also works closely with volunteer organisations including the SES and Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club. During the February 2025 flood event, firefighters and surf lifesavers combined resources to rescue elderly residents trapped by rising floodwaters. According to the firefighters, the biggest motivation to get involved is that it feels good to make a difference in your community. "It's that sense of pride," Keith said, "I take pride in this job and I love doing it." "Even if you've never thought about becoming a firefighter, come down and have a chat to us," Keith said. "It's that simple.” Caption: Members of the Forrest Beach Auxiliary Firefighters: Glyn Morgan, former Air Force serviceman, and Braydon Fratus, local mill worker and the brigade's newest recruit, standing by the Forrest Beach Brigade’s fire engine.
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Bio-tourism projects:
Bio-tourism is at the forefront of much of Hinchinbrook’s economy. The region relies on its waterways for many aquatic-based recreational activities. However, some believe that many bio-tourism projects are stuck in bureaucratic delays, stalled in the approval process while the region suffers.
"Cut red tape. Why does it take so long to get approvals? 20 years ago, it wouldn't have taken this long, and maybe the departments need more funding. The reason why the approvals are so slow is because there's no money." - Steven Clare, Independent.
"Marine access is absolutely critical. The approval is now with the Federal Government, and the way to get things done is to get you guys a seat at the table, so the State Government and the Minister for Environment can drive it at a federal level and get it done." - Wayde Chiesa, LNP.
"Unfortunately, now we're at the behest of the Federal Government in their environmental approvals process, which could take somewhere between two and two and a half years. Ridiculous timelines that were expected to wait to get this infrastructure happening." - Mark Molachino, Katter’s Australian Party (KAP)
"I agree that the Hinchinbrook area has the most fantastic natural resources in terms of national parks, the Great Barrier Reef, ... the way to secure more funding might include greater promotion, advertising, getting people wanting to come to this specific area to see the natural beauty that's available." - Amanda Nickson, Family First.
"We're wasting money on the Port of Hinchinbrook. It is a failed private business; we're wasting that money to stretch that out, when we could be funding new developments for a Coast Guard at Forrest Beach that goes straight out to the reef." - Aiden Creagh, the Greens.
"You need to navigate the game with your Council wishlist and then talk directly to the Federal members. Well, I can do that, and that's the sort of system that we've got to work with. So let's drive it, make it happen." - Maurie Soars, Labor.
Insurance levels rising:
The rising cost of insurance was a major concern, with many businesses found unprotected after the weather event in February this year.
"Australia is a country of natural disasters, whether it's cyclones and rain events here or bush fires further south. So to me, this sounds like it's actually a national issue. Yes, it impacts our area, but it's an issue much bigger than just north Queensland." - (Family First)
"I will use my experience in Regional Development Australia, working with all levels of government to put submissions in to drive down the price of insurance because it is too high and it is impacting our district." - (LNP)
"I don't have my house insured, it can't be afforded. I think there should be a subsidy from the government for people with homes to help pay for their insurances." (Independent)
"There is rising insurance prices ... (we) need to stop the economy from getting worse." - (Greens)
"We were promised an operational reinsurance bill. It seems to be failing us at this point, especially with the extreme weather elements. So, I would suggest advocating at a national level, from a state members level, to get this reinsurance pool on time, on track and back in alignment" - (Labor)
"But we talk about insurance, stamp duty is a big part of that as well. That's a big cost that goes on top. So I think a way to make it fairer between us and Brisbane would be to base stamp duty based on insured value rather than your premium." - (KAP)
Bruce Highway:
Many candidates highlighted that funding to repair and make the Bruce Highway safe is already secured but not yet utilised.
"I would love to see it upgraded. I've been stuck there many times in floods. I would also like to see a rail infrastructure actually be implemented, as we do have a massive rail industry. It should also be there to help out with the floods and be built up so that we don't have the issues that we are having." - (Greens)
"They said they couldn't flood proof the entire Bruce. We understand that, (it's) still got a lot of floodplains. But to keep that line of connection with our commercial and social requirements from our national highway has to be a must." - (Labor)
"What we need to do is (ask) when is this project going to start? I mean, the money is sitting there. How long do the residents have to wait for this project to be done and delivered so that we can flood proof as part of the highway?" - (KAP)
"I think it's just a matter of continuously advocating like a broken record, that this issue isn't going away, but it's important that we need it to be prioritised, because it's a matter of safety for all families in the community." - (Family First)
"We are the starting the detailed planning on the Gairloch crossing. The other thing about delivery, I can deliver. We're in government. You can say to me, where's it at? I can ring the Minister for Main Roads, and I can deliver for the people of this river. So we can flood proof this area." - (LNP)
"Australia is a big country with far too many people, we just don't have the money to flood proof the Bruce Highway, it's just not going to happen. Keep doing what we're doing, pick the low spots and just keep chipping away at it as we can afford it." - (Independent)
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Hi Readers,
Last month, our community had finalists at the North Queensland Sports Foundation - Sports Star Awards held in Townsville on Saturday 25 October 2025, showcasing once again just how much talent we have here in the Hinchinbrook district—talent that shines on the sporting field and represents our shire with pride.
The NQ Sports Star Awards brought together athletes, teams, coaches, volunteers, and proud families from across North Queensland. It was an inspiring evening recognising dedication, discipline, and a love of sport that begins at grassroots level.
A special congratulations to our Hinchinbrook representatives who did us proud:
Congratulations as well to:
To see our locals recognised on the regional stage is a reminder of the early mornings, long training days, and the volunteers, coaches, and families who make these opportunities possible. We are incredibly proud of each of you.
Hinchinbrook Shire has been associated with the North Queensland Sports Foundation for many years. Each year, individuals, families, and the Lions Club of Ingham put forward their nominees, and from there, Council submits the finalists.
The Lions Club of Ingham first began coordinating this important process in 1977, and thanks to the efforts of Lion Sharon Fighera, the program has been reinvigorated within the club. As a result, the local Sports Star Awards have now been held in our Shire for the past two years, ensuring our homegrown talent continues to be celebrated right here in Hinchinbrook.
As we look ahead, I encourage everyone to consider those who make a real difference in our sporting and community life. With Australia Day approaching, please remember to nominate your local legend for our Australia Day Awards.
These awards are another opportunity to recognise outstanding contributions—whether on the sporting field, through volunteering, community leadership, cultural achievements, or efforts that strengthen who we are as a Shire.
Let’s keep shining a light on Hinchinbrook’s champions.
I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a happy and safe New Year. Enjoy your break, and I look forward to continuing to share my Councillor Column with you in 2026.
Every community in Hinchinbrook needs something, and while we can’t keep everyone happy all the time, Hinchinbrook Shire Council is working behind the scenes to deliver what matters most.
We know what our people want and we will not give up.
Forrest Beach is one of those priorities. It’s not just a stunning coastal destination; it’s the second largest population centre in Hinchinbrook after Ingham.
Our region might be ageing but it is growing, with new residents moving up from the south for a more relaxed lifestyle, drawn by our natural beauty and one of the cheapest rates in the state. But growth needs infrastructure.
For nearly a decade since I became Mayor in 2016, we’ve been advocating for reliable marine access at Forrest Beach.
Right now, our boat ramps are tide-dependent and exposed to wind and wave action, limiting usability and safety.
That’s why Council is calling for $4 million to relocate the Cassady Creek boat ramp and $750,000 for a business case and environmental approvals for new ramp and jetty facilities.
As we head into the Hinchinbrook by-election, we are calling on all political parties to make a public commitment to this project. Our community deserves more than promises — we deserve action.
But marine access isn’t the only issue on the table. Hinchinbrook is also stepping up its advocacy for $4 million to deliver a Recycling Waste Facility at Warrens Hill Landfill and Resource Recovery Centre.
This project will transform how we manage waste and recycle resources, creating jobs and cutting landfill.
Over the past year, Hinchinbrook processed more than 24,000 tonnes of material — a 133% increase on the previous year, driven largely by the February floods.
Almost half of that was general waste heading to landfill. We need to change that trajectory. A modern recycling facility will intercept and sort materials before they reach landfill, extend the life of our existing site, and deliver significant environmental benefits.
This is about resilience, innovation, and ensuring Hinchinbrook remains a region of opportunity for generations to come. We’ve done the planning. We’ve engaged consultants. Now we need commitment.
To all candidates: Our community is watching. Make your commitment public. Hinchinbrook deserves nothing less.
For more than six years, SpinFX has been lighting up North Queensland. Founded by Jesse Spina in 2019, the business has grown from humble beginnings into a trusted provider of electrical, air-conditioning, and solar solutions, servicing both urban and remote communities.
From the outset, Jesse’s vision was clear: to provide reliable, high-quality service with a focus on customer satisfaction. What began as hydro cleaning soon expanded to lighting and power point installations, then air-conditioning, and most recently, solar systems. “It’s about being there for our clients, whether they’re in Ingham or a more isolated area like Georgetown or Croydon,” Jesse says.
This commitment to service is reflected in SpinFX's reputation for dependability, quality workmanship, and products customers can trust. The business has evolved in parallel with its growth as SpinFX now boasts a showroom at 1/102 Herbert Street, allowing clients to explore lighting, fans, and solar solutions firsthand.
With his team of eight, Jesse has fostered a workplace culture built on camaraderie and shared purpose. Apprentices are welcomed, ensuring the team grows alongside the business. Hayden, the newly appointed manager, allows Jesse to balance fieldwork with operational oversight, keeping the business agile and client-focused.
As SpinFX looks to the future, Jesse’s focus remains on expanding the services they can provide. This includes off-grid solar and refrigeration licensing and providing exceptional electrical solutions across North Queensland. Their growth is impressive, but their mission remains simple as “Customer satisfaction is our number one priority,” Jesse says. With that ethos at the core, SpinFX is energising the North Queensland region.
Jesse:
From humble beginnings as a subcontractor, Jesse quickly realised his vision to build a business defined by community commitment.
“My parents ran their own businesses, so I grew up understanding what it meant to treat clients and staff with respect,” Jesse reflects. Starting with hydro cleaning, Jesse gradually expanded his offerings with each step deliberate, guided by a combination of skill, curiosity, and a willingness to embrace new opportunities.
A hallmark of Jesse’s approach is his dedication to remote and regional clients. Communities like Georgetown and Croydon often face limited access to tradespeople, but Jesse ensures SpinFX is a reliable presence, going above and beyond to deliver quality service and dependable products. “I’ve invested in being out there. I want to be there for the people who need us,” he explains.
His team's culture is equally important as Jesse has cultivated a workplace that is supportive, and often playful, with staff — and even his dogs, Luna and Luigi — playing a role in creating a positive environment. Apprentices like Dallas and Liam are nurtured from the outset, ensuring the next generation of skilled tradespeople benefits from Jesse’s guidance and high standards.
The new showroom is a tangible expression of Jesse’s growth and ambition. Yet, for Jesse, the work extends beyond bricks and mortar. He continually invests in training, product knowledge, and real-world testing, particularly in solar solutions, to ensure his clients receive only the best.
“I’m very happy with where my business is now. I’ve come so far in what feels like a short amount of time,” he says. North Queensland has gained a genuine expert committed to making life easier, more efficient, and genuinely brighter for every client SpinFX serves.
Anne-Marie – Admin Manager
Anne-Marie joined SpinFX in September 2025, bringing with her a wealth of experience from the construction industry. Her extensive knowledge has made her an invaluable part of the team, ensuring professionalism and efficiency in every task she undertakes.
Outside of work, Anne-Marie is a bushlands enthusiast who loves camping and would happily swap the office for a weekend immersed in nature. And for those with a sweet tooth, she’s hoping the staff kitchen might one day stock her favourite snack: dark chocolate.
Hayden – Ingham Branch Manager
Hayden joined SpinFX in August 2023 and quickly became a standout team member, demonstrating the dedication and skill the company values. A fully qualified electrician, he holds Solar Design & Installation accreditation as well as a Split Air-Con Installer licence, making him a versatile and trusted expert for clients across North Queensland.
Hayden enjoys spending weekends unwinding with mates, sharing drinks, and enjoying a good game of poker. He also has a soft spot for XXXX and chips, proving he knows how to enjoy the simple pleasures in life.
Chayse – Tradesman
Chayse joined SpinFX in March 2025 and has quickly become a valuable member of the team. With a broad knowledge across several areas of the electrical trade, he became a fully qualified tradesman recently after finishing his apprenticeship with SpinFX.
He is an enthusiast for weekends spent skiing. And for a sweet pick-me-up during the day, he wouldn’t say no to a stash of biscuits in the staff kitchen!
Jack – 3rd Year Apprentice
Jack joined SpinFX in October 2023 and quickly transitioned into full-time work, gaining hands-on experience alongside Jesse on trips out to Georgetown. Eager to learn, he has rapidly developed his skills and consistently seeks to improve, demonstrating a strong commitment to the trade.
Jack enjoys the beach in summer and the bush at other times of the year. His perfect weekend involves an early Friday knock-off with mates, a Saturday spent relaxing by the water, and a restful Sunday.
Ben – 3rd Year Apprentice
Ben joined SpinFX in November 2022 after a successful work experience trial and has since become a valued member of the team. Over the past few years, he’s gained extensive hands-on experience, from installing air-conditioning units and wiring sheds to hydro-cleaning systems, often out in the field alongside Hayden.
Beyond the office, Ben prefers the bush over the beach and enjoys spending weekends exploring in his ute. And for a snack boost during the day, he wouldn’t say no to salami sticks to keep him fuelled for the day’s tasks.
Dallas – 1st Year Apprentice
Dallas joined SpinFX in November 2024 after a successful work experience trial and is eager to learn everything about the electrical trade. From balancing school and hands-on experience, he’s now focused full-time on developing the skills he’ll need to become a qualified electrician.
Dallas is a huge beach enthusiast who enjoys spending weekends boating with friends in creeks or dams.
Luigi & Luna – The SpinFX Pups
No team is complete without a little furry support, and at SpinFX , Luigi and Luna bring plenty of character to the mix. Luigi, a brown and white Mini Dachshund, loves being the centre of attention. Luna, a black Jack Russell x Dachshund, is all about playtime, obsessively chasing her favourite ball until it’s found.
Both pups share a love for tasty treats like Schmackos and their playful personalities keep everyone smiling. After long days on the job, Jesse finds balance at home with Luigi and Luna. Their calming presence—and occasional chaos—adds a special spark to life at SpinFX.
New additions to the crew are Liam and Brooke. Liam has just started and is a 1st year apprentice, and Brooke has been part of the SpinFX team for a few months and is an office admin assistant. Both are eager to jump in and thrive alongside everyone on the SpinFX team.
The holiday season is nearly upon us, and Oasis Coffee Shop is ensuring local tables are brimming with traditional Italian delights. Known for its dedication to authentic, home-style flavour, Oasis is currently taking pre-orders for two Christmas must-haves, simplifying your holiday entertaining without compromising quality.
First on the menu are the impressive antipasto platters, perfectly crafted to start any Christmas gathering with a dazzling array of cured meats, delectable cheeses, and juicy olives. They make an ideal centrepiece with prices listed as Small $60, Medium $70, Large $80, and Family $120, a bargain! Families can also pre-order Oasis’s sensational, fresh ravioli. This classic pasta is a staple of Italian Christmas cuisine, offering true culinary heritage. Orders for these popular dishes must be placed promptly to secure your festive feast.
Beyond Christmas Day, Oasis is bringing a sweet treat to the Ingham Late Night Christmas Shopping event. Shoppers navigating the festive bustle can stop by for the fantastic $3 Cannoli special. These crisp, creamy Italian pastries are the perfect pick-me-up while you tick off your Christmas shopping list. Don’t miss this superb bargain on a classic dessert. Make sure Oasis is at the top of your list for both your festive feasting and late-night shopping fuel!
Don’t know what to choose? Their Facebook page offers plenty of delectable Christmas options to tempt you. Stop by the coffee shop at 88 Lannercost Street, Ingham, or call (07) 4776 1522 to place your order today!
When pests invade your home or business, fast, reliable solutions matter, and that’s exactly what Jason Stack of Pest Pro Exterminators delivers across North Queensland, from Tully to Townsville and everywhere in between. Locally owned and operated from Ingham, Pest Pro understands the unique challenges of tropical environments and brings tailored, safe treatments to handle everything from termites and rodents to ants, spiders, and cockroaches.
What sets Jason and his Pest Pro Exterminators apart is their commitment to smart, environmentally responsible control. Their licensed and experienced team uses low-odour, precision-applied methods that aim to protect your family, pets and beneficial insects. Plus, many of their treatments come with a satisfaction guarantee that if pests return within a set period, they do too, at no extra cost.
For homeowners, that means dependable protection all year round. For businesses, it means maintaining hygiene, reputation, and compliance without pest-related disruptions. Whether you need a one-off service or ongoing pest management, their team will assess the situation and recommend the right schedule to keep your property safe.
Don’t wait until pests become a problem. Call Jason Stack and his Pest Pro Exterminators today at 0427 490 349 or email solutions@pestproexterminators.com.au to get a free quote and protect your peace of mind.
Logilytics is celebrating its second birthday, marking two years of helping local businesses get their IT where it needs to be.
Two years ago, they acquired Ace Computers with a simple goal to take the trusted local service the community already knew and loved, and level it up with modern, fit‑for‑purpose technology solutions. Since then, they’ve been busy behind the scenes keeping businesses online, secure, and productive. From troubleshooting everyday issues to rolling out premium infrastructure that’s built to last.
What hasn’t changed is their commitment to being the team you can actually talk to. Still believing in straight answers, quality hardware, and solutions that are designed around how you work, not just what’s cheapest on paper. What has changed is the scale of what they can deliver, with stronger cybersecurity, smarter managed services, and more robust data and communications projects for growing organisations.
As they look ahead to the next chapter, their focus remains the same with premium solutions for premium clients and a genuine investment in the long‑term success of every business they support.
"Thank you to our customers, partners, and community for trusting Logilytics over the past two years – we’re just getting started." Says Benjamin Barbi, Director at Logilytics.
Logilytics continues to give North Queensland businesses the peace of mind to focus on what they do best. Located at 106 Cartwright Street, Ingham. Call 1800 832 477, or visit www.logilytics.com.au for more information on how Logilytics can help your business.
With sugarcane a likely source to meet Australian domestic needs for biofuels and bioenergy, Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR) is taking every opportunity to campaign for a Federal Government commitment to a world-leading sugarcane-based bioenergy industry.
QCAR was invited to present at the recent State Development Industry Breakfast at Townsville on 13 November, as well as join a panel of presenters who are involved in the biofuels and bioenergy sectors.
QCAR Herbert District Manager and Senior Technical Agricultural Officer Lawrence Di Bella and Chief Strategy Officer Michael Kern attended the breakfast, which attracted around 300 attendees. Also on the panel were Jet Zero CEO Ed Mason, Pongamia Farm Midway Limited’s Project Lead Mick Theobald and Qantas Sustainable Aviation Fuel Executive Manager Matt Hudson.
Mr Di Bella said Australia needed to move quickly to sure up the nation’s future domestic needs for fuel and power using sugarcane-based biofuels and bioenergy.
“The big question for our industry now is whether our government will make a commitment that will provide the platform for us to lead in developing a world-first sugarcane-based bioenergy industry.”
Australian Army Brigadier Ben McLennan, told attendees that Townsville was one of the biggest garrison cities in Australia and it was set to get even bigger, increasing an already significant demand for fuel and other resources under the Federal Government’s defence force strategy.
“This aligns with the Federal Government’s largest financial investment into defence since 1942,” Mr Di Bella said.
Currently, the enormous demand for fuel is filled predominantly by Singapore, China and Taiwan. Brigadier McLennan said Australia currently had less than a month of fuel reserves.
Mr Di Bella highlighted this urgency. Presenter Drew Penny, General Manager, Business Development at the Port of Townsville Limited provided an update on storage capacity and expansion plans. He said the Port was preparing for additional storage of fuels (biofuels) to meet Defence, general aviation and industry needs, with the proposed development of a Renewable Energy Hub already on the drawing board.
Representing the farming sector (sugarcane and rotational crops) on the panel, Mr Di Bella said current sugarcane industry arrangements, such as Cane Supply Agreements and access to feedstocks, were identified as one of the barriers to the development of a regional biofuels industry.
A total of 39 new Australian citizens took the pledge at a citizenship ceremony held on 24 November 2025 at the Innisfail Shire Hall. The event brought together families, friends, and community representatives to witness an important milestone for the conferees as they formally committed to their new life as Australians.
The new citizens originated from New Caledonia, South Africa, Argentina, Malaysia, Cambodia, the United Kingdom, Ukraine, the Philippines, New Zealand, Tonga, Kazakhstan, the United States, Russia, Brazil, China, Estonia, Hong Kong, Pakistan, and Germany. Their diverse backgrounds reflect the wide range of cultures and experiences that continue to strengthen the region.
Council extended a warm welcome to all conferees and congratulated them on becoming Australian citizens. They also wished them the very best for the future as they begin the next chapter of their lives as part of the community.
A total of 39 new Australian citizens took the pledge at a citizenship ceremony held on 24 November 2025 at the Innisfail Shire Hall. The event brought together families, friends, and community representatives to witness an important milestone for the conferees as they formally committed to their new life as Australians.
The new citizens originated from New Caledonia, South Africa, Argentina, Malaysia, Cambodia, the United Kingdom, Ukraine, the Philippines, New Zealand, Tonga, Kazakhstan, the United States, Russia, Brazil, China, Estonia, Hong Kong, Pakistan, and Germany. Their diverse backgrounds reflect the wide range of cultures and experiences that continue to strengthen the region.
Council extended a warm welcome to all conferees and congratulated them on becoming Australian citizens. They also wished them the very best for the future as they begin the next chapter of their lives as part of the community.
Bright and early on Thursday the 20th of November, the Cardwell RSL Sub Branch members gathered on the foreshore for a Department of Veterans Affairs sponsored walk. The Health Week participants walked from the Police Station to the Memorial and then back to the Seabreeze Café for an excellent breakfast supplied by Stuart Ward and his staff. Due to numerous alarm clock malfunctions, not everyone arrived on time. However, 35 members attended the Seabreeze breakfast. The Cardwell RSL Sub Branch is extremely grateful to the DVA for sponsoring this Health Week activity.
Contributed with thanks by Robert Lang President of the Cardwell RSL Sub Branch.
The GSM 1st XIII boys Confraternity Rugby League squad recently completed block 1 of their 2026 preseason train and trial period, throughout Term 4. The young men were tested by coaches Matthew Spina (GSM “Confro Old Boy” & current A-Grade Herbert River player) and new staff member Annan Whittington (former Townsville Blackhawks and North Queensland Cowboys pathways coach) in weekly training sessions in the blistering heat, before meeting northern Confraternity neighbours Good Counsel College, Innisfail in their first trial match.
With some players unavailable through injuries and other commitments, GSM still fielded 21 players of differing experience levels in the preseason match, enabling eight young men the opportunity to play rugby league for the first time and earn valuable playing experience, before the squad is selected and announced in mid to late Term 1.
2026 marks the 30th anniversary of Gilroy Santa Maria’s inclusion in their first Confraternity Carnival in 1996, with the Carnival now growing to be the biggest schoolboy and schoolgirl carnival in Queensland, with well over 60 schools represented. GSM will honour the 30th anniversary of Confro at the college by returning to their roots with 1996 inspired playing jerseys for the 2026 carnival and other events for GSM "Confro Old Boys".
The GSM Rugby League program will also be implementing brand new initiatives in 2026, across the Under 13 and Under 15 junior age groups. The junior age groups will have the opportunity to take part in the Townsville Blackhawks Schoolboy Trophy and planning is underway for an u15 Development Tour, to assist with their development towards future Confraternity tours in 2027/2028 on the Gold Coast and Cairns.
In the Senior 1st XIII age group, the boys will be returning to training in Term 1 with gym, field sessions and further trial matches, ahead of competing in the Townsville Blackhawks Schoolboy Trophy in Term 2 and the Confraternity Carnival, held in Brisbane in 2026.
(Contributed with thanks by the GSMC Rugby League Program.)
Ingham, Noorla and Macknade gathered to mark the end of another strong year of men’s interclub competitions for 2025. The season wrapped up with plenty of camaraderie and a healthy dose of rivalry, as each club recognised the achievements that defined their year.
Congratulations to the following winners:
Terry White Trophy – Noorla
Moduline Trophy – Macknade
Royal Hotel Trophy – Macknade
A warm thank you goes to the trophy sponsors whose support helps keep this long-running tradition thriving.
Katter’s Australian Party (KAP) candidate for Hinchinbrook, Mark Molachino has confirmed his main priority once elected will be to ensure the shire does not lose its voice in statewide decision making.
Born, raised, educated and employed in Ingham, Mr Molachino has worked in the shire’s sugar industry from the farms to the processing mills for years, and has served in the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) for two and a half decades, with two deployments. Currently a small business owner himself, Mr Molachino and his six employees deliver professional vocational training to mining companies, and paired with his previous role as a RAAF Operations Officer, Mr Molachino’s professional resume of leadership and coordination speaks volumes.
A committed family man, Mr Molachino and his wife, Lexy, enjoy spending their time with their three daughter, Scarlett, Zara, and Victoria, and their beloved mini dachshund, Walter. Whether out boating, fishing, water-skiing, or riding dirt bikes across the region’s tracks, the Molachino family enjoy the very lifestyle they hope to protect.
Since graduating from Gilroy Santa Maria College, Mr Molachino has gone on to study numerous Diplomas in Vocational Education, Project Management, and has acquired eight years of experience in local government, leading him to truly understand how intricately each level of government interact and operate.
Mr Molachino has been living and raising his family in the region for several decades, and with that in mind, he plans to prioritise the safety of both his family, and the shire if elected in this month’s by-election. The presentation of Castle Law in parliament stands as one of Mr Molachino’s main priorities to grant homeowners greater protections when defending themselves, their families, and their property against intruders, to ensure they are not unfairly penalised for taking reasonable action to stay safe.
Paired with his push for the implementation of Castle Law, Mr Molachino will continue the work of the KAP to place North Shore roadways back on the state’s agenda, a move he sees as a real investment along with floodproofing the Ingham Power Substation, the Gairloch and Seymour Highway and the greater shire.
With deep roots in the region, and a clear plan for meaningful, practical change to safeguard the future of the shire, Mr Molachino and Katter’s Australian Party are committed amplifying the Hinchinbrook Shire’s voice, to deliver the safety, infrastructure and representation the community deserves, furthermore ensuring the community’s needs are not only heard in parliament, but acted on.
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