Researchers at James Cook University are developing a new tool that could transform the way sugarcane farmers detect disease, using artificial intelligence and free satellite data to identify infections before any visible symptoms appear.

Led by Professor Mostafa Rahimi Azghadi, the research team has created a crop health monitoring system that analyses satellite imagery to assess sugarcane health and detect Ratoon Stunting Disease (RSD) at its earliest stages. RSD is one of the industry’s most damaging diseases and can significantly reduce yields if left undetected.

“RSD can affect the yield of sugar by up to 60 per cent and it’s highly contagious. But being asymptomatic, you can't see it with the naked eye until the latter stages of the growing season,” Prof Azghadi said.

The team’s latest study tested the tool’s ability to distinguish between healthy and diseased crops using multispectral satellite imagery and machine learning. Results showed accuracy rates between 86 and 97 per cent, depending on the sugarcane variety.

“Depending on the sugarcane variety, our method was between 86 and 97 per cent accurate … which is on par or better than other crop disease detection tools,” Prof Azghadi said.

Currently, farmers must manually cut and test cane samples and send them to laboratories for DNA analysis, a process that is both costly and time-consuming.

“It’s time consuming and expensive, especially if you want to do it at larger scale as every test costs about 10-15 dollars,” Prof Azghadi said.

The project was developed in collaboration with Herbert Cane Productivity Services, which provided on-the-ground data from the Herbert River region.

“They provided data on both diseased and disease-free plants, which has been critical in helping us develop our technology,” said lead author and JCU engineering graduate Ethan Waters.

Mr Waters said the technology relies on subtle differences invisible to the human eye.

“There are subtle differences between a healthy crop and a diseased crop. The naked eye can't see all the subtleties and only a well-trained machine learning algorithm can spot those differences,” he said.

The research is supported by Australia’s economic accelerator program and could be expanded to other crops in the future.

“RSD in sugarcane is just our first successful case study … our approach can be extended to other crops and other crop health challenges,” Prof Azghadi said.

“The long-term objective is to develop an early-warning tool that identifies disease risk and tracks overall crop health. It’ll be a bit like a regular check-up with your GP, but for sugarcane and other crops.”

JCU researchers are developing a new tool to help farmers monitor crop health and accurately detect diseased sugarcane. Photo source: Shutterstock

‍

Concessional disaster loans for primary producers affected by recent North Queensland flooding have been increased to up to $2 million, providing significant financial support for recovery efforts.

Jointly delivered by the state and federal Governments through the Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), the loans were previously capped at $250,000. The increase recognises the widespread damage caused by the North Queensland Monsoon Trough and ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji.

The concessional loans can be used to repair or replace damaged equipment, livestock and farm infrastructure, support replanting and restoration activities, and assist with essential operating costs such as rents and rates.

Disaster assistance has now been activated for primary producers in the Barcaldine and Cassowary Coast local government areas, including access to disaster loans and freight subsidies of up to $5,000.

Additional support has also been expanded to producers in Barcaldine, Cassowary Coast, Central Highlands, Livingstone and Whitsunday regions, who can apply for Disaster Recovery Grants of up to $75,000 to assist with clean-up, repairs and resupply.

Eligibility for the Primary Producer Industry Support Package has also been extended to Central Highlands, offering financial and personal counselling, pest and locust management, and recovery and resilience support.

A $4.26 million Mental Health Program supporting psychosocial wellbeing in flood-affected communities has also been expanded to include Hope Vale and Wujal Wujal.

Primary producers seeking assistance can contact the Queensland Rural Industry Development Authority (QRIDA) via www.qrida.qld.gov.au or call 1800 623 946 for further information.

‍

Hinchinbrook Shire Council advises that an aerial shooting program will be conducted to control feral pig populations.

The operation will cover land parcels managed by participating organisations and landholders in the area extending from Forrest Beach in the north to Crystal Creek in the south.

Subject to suitable weather conditions, the program is scheduled to take place on:

• Wednesday 18 March 2026 between 5.00am and 7.00pm; and
• Thursday 19 March 2026 between 5.00am and 7.00pm.

To ensure public safety during the operation, access to the following areas will be closed during the specified times:

• National Parks Estate;
• Bronte Road;
• Halifax Bay Wetlands; and
• Access to huts located on Bronte Road will be permitted outside of the planned control hours.

Council appreciates the community’s cooperation and understanding during this important control activity.

This initiative is funded by the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation; the Department of Natural Resources, Mines, Manufacturing and Regional and Rural Development; Herbert Cane Productivity Services Limited; and HQ Plantation, in association with Hinchinbrook Shire Council.

For more information, email council@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au or call Council’s customer service centre on (07) 4776 4600 to report sightings.

Impact of Feral Pigs on Sugarcane: Feral pigs are among Queensland’s most widespread and damaging pest animals. They degrade soil and water, damage crops and livestock, and carry diseases. In the sugarcane industry, feral pigs cause losses of an estimated 20,000 tonnes of sugarcane each year.

‘Feral pigs cause losses of an estimated 20,000 tonnes of sugarcane each year.’ Photo credit: The State of Queensland, Department of Agriculture and Fisheries

‍

Tec-NQ House in Rosslea, Townsville accommodates up to 40 boys completing Years 10–12 at Tec-NQ. With a deliberately unique approach to high school, students explore vocational pathways aligned with their career goals while completing their Senior School Certificate.

Through work experience programs across north and west Queensland, students get to test out different industries to see what suits them best. Many students go onto secure school-based apprenticeships where they are paid to learn, before transitioning to full time apprenticeships once they graduate.

Caleb’s Tec-NQ House journey took an exciting turn this year through his placement at Dan’s Automotive in Currajong. Quiet by nature, he arrived eager to learn but still building confidence. That quickly changed.

“When Caleb first started, he was quiet… but now his confidence has grown, and he is a valued member of our team,” said Dan, the owner.

Dan’s Automotive has long supported Tec-NQ students, including one former school-based apprentice who is now a tradesman. Caleb began his placement doing the basics: cleaning, sweeping and passing tools. Through commitment and curiosity, he quickly progressed.

Today, he’s operating the hoist, changing oil and completing full services under the supervision of the tradespeople. His growth has been impossible to miss.

“Caleb has really shown us what he’s made of—I plan to offer him an apprenticeship very soon,” Dan said.

Head of Boarding Luke Papworth says this is exactly the opportunity Tec-NQ House is designed to support.

“Boarding gives young people the structure and independence to step into real work environments with confidence. When students like Caleb take these opportunities seriously, the transformation is remarkable.”

With the steady support of Tec-NQ House and the hands-on guidance of local industry partners, Caleb is building a strong future in automotive. From quiet beginnings to earning the trust of a professional workshop, he’s proving what dedication and the right environment can achieve.

For a unique senior school and boarding solution that delivers a real-world trade start, you can’t look past Tec-NQ.

Caleb at work during his placement. Photo supplied

‍

Learn from last year's Valentine's season when millions of dollars were scammed out of Queenslanders through ‘love scams’

The Government is warning Queenslanders to protect their hearts and bank accounts from scammers as last February, scammers raked in more than $1.4 million from 61 Queenslanders, which was quadruple the more than $296,000 lost in New South Wales, and more than triple the $380,000 lost in Victoria.

Data from the National Anti-Scam Centre register, Scamwatch, shows the top three methods used by scammers to contact their victims were websites, emails and text messages.

The age group most likely to be scammed in Queensland was 55-64 year olds, with a median loss of $7,000 reported per scam.

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice and Minister for Integrity Deb Frecklington urged Queenslanders to be cautious, especially if they receive a request for money from someone they’ve never met in person.

“It’s deeply concerning and disappointing to see February continue to be a peak time for scammers to target unsuspecting Queenslanders, with devastating consequences,” the Attorney-General said.

“More than 850 Queenslanders reported losing close to $6 million to dating and romance scammers last year, with around a quarter of those financial losses occurring in February alone.

“But we need to remember those victims are only the ones who reported being scammed, and there are likely to be many others who were too embarrassed or afraid to report the fact they were ripped off.

“If you do fall victim to a scam, contact your bank immediately, report it to police, and log the incident with Scamwatch to help prevent others from being impacted by these heartless scammers.”

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION – Signs it might be a scam (credit: Scamwatch)

• The relationship moves fast and they soon say they have strong feelings for you. They 'love bomb' you, messaging or calling a lot to make you feel very special.
• The scammer quickly tries to move your chat from a social media platform or online dating website to a free messaging platform like WeChat, LINE or WhatsApp.
• Once there's an emotional connection, the scammer encourages you to make money through different investments, often cryptocurrency. They may offer to spend time 'showing you' how to make 'easy money'.
• They may tell you they have an emergency and urgently need your money or ask you to set up accounts or transfer money they give you.
• They want you to only trust them and keep things secret. They may try to cut you off from family and friends
• There always seems to be some reason they can’t meet in person or video chat. Often they say they're overseas, somewhere remote, or their technology isn’t working.

Caption: Do not give your private and confidential information to “lovers” online, report scammers.

‍

A new statewide police operation targeting break-ins, robberies and stolen vehicles will begin this week as the government steps up efforts to reduce crime across Queensland.

The operation, known as Operation Forge, will officially commence on Friday, February 27, and will involve high-visibility policing across the state aimed at tackling property crime and high-risk offenders. The initiative is being rolled out in partnership with the Queensland Police Service and follows a reported 7.2 per cent reduction in the number of victims of crime in 2025 compared to the previous year.

Operation Forge will be led by district police, with support from specialist units including the Criminal Investigation Branch, Child Protection and Investigation Unit and tactical crime squads. Resources such as POLAIR, forensic services, surveillance operations and digital intelligence teams will also be deployed.

The government says the operation forms part of its broader commitment to restoring community safety and addressing what it describes as Labor’s “Youth Crime Crisis”. The crackdown will also focus on serious repeat offenders, following a 17 per cent reduction in repeat offending over the past year.

Minister for Police and Emergency Services Dan Purdie said the operation would target the state’s most serious offenders.

“Operation Forge will target the worst of the worst as we continue to turn the tide of Labor’s Youth Crime Crisis and give our police the laws and resources they need to do their jobs,” Minister Purdie said.

Acting Police Commissioner Brett Pointing said the message to offenders was clear: those who cause harm in communities would be held to account.

“I want to send a clear message to criminals – if you cause harm in our communities, you will be held to account,” he said.

“I would like to thank our people for the incredible work they do each day and for their unwavering support to their communities during this operation.”

CAPTION: QPS’ latest operation forms part of its broader commitment to restoring community safety. Photo source: QPS

‍

Vegetables are a cornerstone of a healthy diet, yet most Queenslanders are falling well short of recommendations. Just 8 per cent of adults and 5 per cent of children eat the recommended five or more serves of vegetables each day, according to Queensland Health.

Guidelines from the National Health and Medical Research Council show that eating enough vegetables can reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, weight gain and some cancers, while also improving gut health. Vegetables are rich in dietary fibre, including soluble and insoluble fibre and resistant starch, which helps people feel fuller for longer and supports digestion.

Even small changes can have a big impact. Increasing vegetable intake by just one serve a day could reduce the risk of death from all causes by five per cent, and deaths from heart disease and stroke by four per cent.

Cost and food waste are often barriers, but using more of what you buy — and embracing imperfect produce — can help overcome both.

Using the whole vegetable, including leaves, stems and skins, reduces waste and boosts nutrition. Carrot tops, broccoli and cauliflower leaves, and celery greens can be added to stir-fries, soups and salads. Leaving skins on vegetables such as carrots, zucchini and potatoes saves time and retains valuable fibre and nutrients.

Food waste remains a major issue, with around 70 per cent of household food waste in Australia still edible. Wilted or soft vegetables can often be rescued by roasting, adding to soups and curries, freezing for later use, making stock, pickling, or even rehydrating leafy greens in water.

Consumers can also help reduce waste by choosing imperfect vegetables. The National Farmers Federation estimates that 25 per cent of crops never leave farms due to cosmetic standards. These “imperfect” or “odd” vegetables are just as nutritious, often cheaper, and support farmers while cutting waste.

By buying smarter and using vegetables from root to leaf, households can save money, reduce waste and enjoy the full health benefits vegetables have to offer.

Are you making the most of your veggies? Photo source: Shutterstock

‍

Mick’s Bread Kitchen has something for every coffee lover, whether you’re after a sustainable sip, a plant-powered treat, or a bold caffeine kick.

Mick’s new Pottery For The Planet travel cups are now on the counter, ready to go to their new homes. Each cup is handmade and unique, available in beautiful earthy colours, including the stunning Ocean Jasper glaze. Buy one and get $0.50 off your coffee or tea every time you bring it in. Designed to keep drinks hot or cold longer, dishwasher and microwave safe, these cups are a gift for yourself or someone special, all while helping the planet.

Coffee lovers, a brewed fresh batch of cold brew and Nitro coffee, including Vietnamese style, is now available. The Nitro tap creates a creamy, velvety texture similar to Guinness, with higher caffeine and lower acidity than your usual brew. Enjoy it straight up, over ice, or with your choice of milk for a perfectly refreshing pick-me-up.

Pair your drink with the creamy, nutty delight of Madame Tiger Barista Tiger Nut Milk. This plant-powered, allergen-friendly milk is dairy-free, soy-free, gluten-free, and FODMAP certified. Rich in fibre, packed with vitamins and minerals, and sustainably grown, it’s the perfect addition to your coffee or to take home by the carton or box of six.

Come in today to Mick’s Bread Kitchen to try these delights. Sip sustainably, taste boldly, and take home something deliciously, uniquely yours.

Madame Tiger Barista Tiger Nut Milk is now available in-store for drinks and take-home cartons. Photo supplied

‍

Hinchinbrook Shire Council reminds employees and business owners on Lannercost Street and within the Ingham CBD to observe all signed parking conditions.

Under the Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995, vehicles must be parked in accordance with displayed signage.

It is an offence to:

• Park longer than the maximum time indicated
• Park outside the marked lines of a parking bay

Signed 2P (two hour) parking zones in the CBD are designed to support short term parking and customer access to local businesses. Employees are encouraged to use longer stay parking options, including:

• Johnson Street Car Park (9P)
• McIlwraith Street Car Park (9P) – behind the Lannercost Street Council building
• Unrestricted areas on Lannercost Street where 2P limits do not apply

Council also reminds drivers to strictly observe disability parking bays.

These spaces are essential for community members with limited mobility or other challenges who rely on close and accessible parking to safely go about their daily activities.

Parking in these bays without the appropriate permit can prevent people who genuinely need them from accessing local services.

Please ensure you check all parking signs carefully before leaving your vehicle.

Vehicles parked contrary to signage may receive a Penalty Infringement Notice.

The current penalty for overstaying the signed time limit is $83.00. Please note this amount does not apply to all parking offences — penalties vary depending on the type of offence.

For further information, contact Council’s Customer Service Centre on (07) 4776 4600.

‍

Meet Sitka!

She's as sweet as a butterfly and as joyful as a pixie. This young pup is ready to bring joy and companionship into your life! Bursting with playful energy and abundant affection, Sitka is the perfect pet for those who love both adventure and cozy cuddles. Her enthusiastic nature and wagging tail are bound to make every day feel brighter.

Sitka thrives on interaction and is currently honing her training skills. She would benefit greatly from a family that can match her active lifestyle, incorporating engaging activities like long walks, hikes, or runs. At the end of an action-packed day, Sitka will happily curl up next to you, sharing her warmth and endearing charm.

If you're ready for a lovable, energetic companion who's eager to learn and be a part of your family adventures, consider bringing Sitka into your home. She's poised to be a loyal friend and an active participant in all your future escapades!

If you’re interested in meeting any of the Sitka please complete an animal enquiry form at: https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html.

Included in adoption fee of $545 Desexed, micro-chipped, up to date vaccinations, flea/tick/intestinal worm treated & ProHeart.

DOB: 01/09/2025
Sex: Female
Breed: Bull Arab X
Colour: Brindle with white toes
Kid friendly: Yes
Cat Friendly: No
Other dogs: Yes
Fences: 6ft
BIN: BIN0000268254643

‍

World Day of Prayer is an international movement led by Christian women from many cultures across the globe. All churches are invited to attend this years' service at the Uniting Church Hall on Herbert Street, Ingham.

While the event is usually held on the first Friday in March, in Ingham it will take place on Friday 27 March at 9:30am. The service has been composed by the Nigerian Women World Day of Prayer Committee.

More than 170 countries participate each year, promoting understanding of how different cultures interpret the Bible and fostering solidarity through the Christian faith.

The 2026 theme is: “I Will Give You Rest. Come”, composed by the Nigerian Women. The service will be followed by a morning tea, and all men and women are welcome.

What: World Day of Prayer Service
When: Friday, 27 March 2026, 9:30am
Where: Uniting Church Hall, Herbert Street, Ingham

‍

Join the World Day of Prayer service held at the Uniting Church Hall, Ingham. Photo sourced: Shutterstock

‍

AA Business Services offers trusted, local and affordable taxation support tailored to individuals and small business owners across the Hinchinbrook region. With more than 25 years in the industry, Alida Lee provides professional, yet approachable service focused on helping everyday clients achieve the best possible outcomes while keeping costs manageable.

Specialising in individual tax returns, rental properties, sole traders and small businesses, Alida understands that many clients simply want clear advice, reliable support and cost-effective solutions without the complexity or high fees often associated with larger firms. No job is too small, from straightforward personal returns to small business taxation needs, AA Business Services works closely with clients to ensure they remain organised, compliant and confident throughout the process.

Late tax returns are also welcome, with efficient systems allowing overdue lodgements to be completed quickly and without unnecessary stress or added expense. Locally based in Halifax, they proudly support the wider Hinchinbrook community with honest, dependable and affordable taxation services designed for the little guy, delivering big service and real results while helping clients keep more money in their pockets.

‍

For many small businesses, creatives, and early‑stage founders, digital marketing can feel crowded with options, yet short on clear answers.

This March, State Library of Queensland is offering free online workshops designed to bring clarity and confidence to your digital marketing. In just two hours, participants will learn which platforms matter most, how they fit together, and where to focus effort for tangible results.

The session breaks down how customers find, research, and choose businesses online—then maps those touchpoints to customer channels.

• Your website – turning visitors into enquiries with clear messaging, strong calls‑to‑action, and simple user journeys.
• Google Search & Maps (Google Business Profile) – being found at the exact moment people are actively looking.
• Facebook & Instagram – building visibility, trust, and credibility with the right content.
• Email marketing – staying connected and driving repeat business the smart, low‑cost way.
• Online reviews – shaping perception and influencing decisions with social proof.
• Paid advertising (Google Ads) – when ads are worth it and when they’re not.

The free online sessions run between 9 to 20 March with multiple time options available. Book through the Digital and You app or via Eventbrite.

‍

By Dr Bianka Vidonja Balanzategui

If only the mango trees lining the main street of Halifax could talk! Mango trees (Mangifera indica) were planted by the European pioneers of the Herbert River district for their fruit and shade. Farm gardens and riverbanks evidence their proliferation.

Lining the centre of the little township of Halifax is a stand of magnificent trees, including mango trees (originally numbering eight) planted by the six Herbert River Farmers Association founding members – Harald Hoffensetz, August Anderssen, Arthur W. Carr, Niels C. Rosendahl, John Alm and Francis Herron – in an effort to beautify the township. Today, listed on the Queensland Heritage Register because of their significant heritage value, they stand as an enduring physical legacy of those men’s investment in their adopted home and the sugar industry of the Herbert River Valley. The community is protective of the trees and has resisted past proposals for their removal.

Over time the mango trees became a gathering place and eavesdroppers of gossip, tall tales and true for Macrossan Street provided a regular meeting place for new immigrants. Older members of the Italian community maintained this tradition over decades, sweeping the surrounds of leaves and mangoes before settling down on the bench under one particular tree for gossip and lively discussions of world events and of course the state of the sugar industry.  Such gathering places under trees have come to be known as Trees of Knowledge or Seats of Knowledge and the practice can be traced back to the Roman Forum.

In time, in Halifax, the petrol station replaced the mango trees as a gathering place. Former proprietor of the petrol station, Andrew Lancini recalls a seat outside the station where elderly men would similarly gather to chat and solve the problems of the world. The seat was euphemistically called the ‘Departure Lounge’ for with the passing of the years fewer gathered.

Inghamites recall a similar Tree of Knowledge across from the East Ingham hotel.

But the Tree of Knowledge was not exclusive to the gathering of retired Italian farmers. For example, in Townsville the Tree of Knowledge (actually three trees planted in the 1890s and originally called the Shade Trees), on the corner of Flinders and Denham Streets was a gathering point for the opening rallies of all political campaigns – municipal, state and federal. There candidates would conduct “soapbox debates”. The last of those trees was removed in 1972.

Locals of the towns dotting the coast of north Queensland can identify such former Trees or Seats of Knowledge with some nostalgia. But recent investigation reveals the tradition lives on in places like Tully with its Seat of Knowledge and Kurrimine Beach with its popular Table of Knowledge.

This tradition had roots in the Italian communities that were established through migration to the region with the tradition possibly tracing back to the Roman forum. As the design of Italian piazzas reflect that forum construction landscape. being the main focal point of the village for everyone to gather.

Although many of those who originally gathered at certain 'places of knowledge' had passed, and the tradition had declined in some areas, there was a resurgence in other areas as new generations are picking up versions of that tradition and perhaps gathering outside a cafe to chat for a few hours.

Whether they take the form of benches, tables, or even a well-shaded mango tree, these spaces play an important role in the shared heritage of regional communities. They are places where stories are exchanged, memories are made, and a bit of local gossip flows freely, all adding to the knowledge gained and the friendships strengthened along the way.

Caption for Mango tree OLD: Mango trees, Macrossan Street Halifax, 1897. Image sourced: Hinchinbrook Shire Library Photographic collection.

Caption Mango tree 2025: Mango trees, Macrossan Street Halifax, 2026. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

Each year in February and early March our region experiences very high tides, and nowhere is this more evident than on the causeway of the Halifax to Lucinda road. The tide rises through the mangroves and will engulf the road with brackish salty water.

Driving through this water will cause salt to be trapped under your car, resulting in rust damage, as well as faulty wiring connections, creating expensive repairs.

At a tide height of 3.8 metres, water will reach the edge of the roadway. At 3.9 metres it will be across the road, and at 4+ metres can be 300mm deep in places between Gentle Annie Creek and Ferrero Street, Lucinda.

Residents and visitors are urged to check the tide height before driving to Lucinda in February and March. Once the tide falls below 3.8 metres, the road will be dry again.

Article contributed with thanks, written by Steve Whipps, Commander Qf14 Lucinda Coast Guard.

The flooded causeway dated 9th March 2024. Photo credit: Steve Whipps

‍